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A for Assam: Modis vision and a decade of transformation
Assam stands at the cusp of a new age, thanks to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The once tumultuous landscape is now a portrait of tranquility, as incidents of insurgency have significantly dropped. Simultaneously, robust infrastructure projects like expansive highways and innovative bridges are reshaping the state, establishing it as a vital corridor for trade and travel.
Leaving palates in a pickle: Lack of familiarity is often behind food discrimination
A recent incident at the University of Colorado, where Indian PhD scholars faced racist comments over the smell of palak paneer, highlights lingering food prejudices. Despite increased global connectivity, unfamiliarity and ignorance can lead to xenophobic reactions, as seen with various cuisines historically struggling for acceptance in the US.
China's eternal loop: Country's history is not a river of wisdom but a carousel of control
China's history is a brutal cycle of power, paranoia, and collapse, repeating across dynasties. Despite rebranding, the Communist Party continues a tradition of one-party rule, fear, and purges. While lifting millions from poverty is a notable achievement, the suffering of ordinary people remains a constant, with regimes changing names but the cycle of control enduring.
Echoes of 1924: US visa freeze isnt just about welfare, its a move to slash legal immigration
The Trump administration has halted immigrant visas from 75 nations. This move mirrors past US policies that significantly limited immigration. The freeze aims to cut legal immigration by half. The State Department cited welfare usage by migrants as the reason. This policy change targets legal immigration, not illegal entries. The ban is expected to face legal challenges.
Down with US petroarchy: Venezuela, sanctions and oil, what India risks in a new energy cold war
India navigates a complex energy landscape. US actions in Venezuela highlight global energy market volatility. India, reliant on imported energy, seeks affordable supplies while managing sanctions and geopolitical pressures. Diversification, strategic reserves, and flexible diplomacy are key. India must balance national interests with global dynamics to avoid economic repercussions from energy price fluctuations and trade restrictions.
Tiger Changes Its Stripes: SC says treaties arent tax shields
Tiger Global Supreme Court news: The Supreme Court has changed foreign investment rules in India. A recent judgment means tax residency certificates are no longer enough. Investors must now prove real economic substance. This ruling impacts past and future investments. India is asserting its fiscal sovereignty. Tax efficiency now requires operational substance.
Does 'Tiger Global' leave investors confused, or finally put economic substance over legal form?
The Supreme Court has ruled that a Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) is not conclusive proof of eligibility for Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) benefits, reversing a High Court decision. This judgment unsettles long-standing investment structures and introduces uncertainty for foreign investors, despite grandfathering provisions for pre-2017 investments.
China's super $1.2 tn surplus also tells us about unresolved contradictions in its economic model
China's record $1.2 trillion trade surplus in 2025 highlights a savings-investment imbalance, not just export strength. Despite tariffs and global slowdown, China rerouted exports and established overseas production, masking domestic weaknesses like low consumption and declining investment returns. This surplus acts as a macroeconomic crutch, delaying necessary reforms.
Don't make a rare earth plan scarce
Nations are moving away from free markets for critical minerals. Governments are now controlling access through licensing and investment screening. China is using export controls to its advantage. The US and Europe are investing in domestic supply chains. India is also building its capacity. This shift signals a new era of geopolitical competition for essential resources.
How states spend: Rising costs, growing deficits, need for efficient spending
Over the past decade, Indias states have seen revenue expenditure outpace revenue growth, widening deficits. Efficient, outcome-based spending is crucial to balance development needs and fiscal stability.
Fed independence going to tin pot
US Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell has revealed a threat of criminal indictment from the Department of Justice. This action follows a dispute with President Donald Trump over the Fed's independence in setting interest rates. Powell stated the charges are a pretext to influence monetary policy. This situation highlights a significant challenge to the Fed's autonomy.
Elite education, get industrious: IITs rethink how they select and train students
India's elite IITs are updating their entrance exams and postgraduate courses. This move acknowledges that current methods may not fully prepare students for future challenges. The reforms aim to foster real-world problem-solving and innovation. Internships will be expanded to include entrepreneurship.
Countries dialling down their dollar dependence is good for the world, average American included
In a bid to secure its financial hegemony, the US is contemplating actions in Venezuela and Greenland. These decisions stem from the pressing challenge posed by Chinas renminbi and increasing gold reserves, signaling a strategic effort to prevent any erosion of the dollars status as the premier global reserve currency.
Nothing Dickensian about gig work
Gig work offers significant livelihood generation and worker agency in India. Platform companies are crucial for this ecosystem. While worker welfare is important, misguided activism risks harming the model. The path forward involves industry best practices and social security provisions. A sustainable gig economy requires recognising platform viability and worker welfare as complementary goals.
Global trade matrix: India mustn't remain a lone ranger while arenas are being carved out
India faces a complex trade policy challenge, navigating US proposals to reshape WTO decision-making and potentially abandoning consensus. While a US trade deal offers opportunities, India must also engage with the growing EU-CPTPP bloc to avoid isolation amidst shifting global trade dynamics.
Trump's adventures in Greenland put Europe to test yet again
United States' President Trump is pushing for the acquisition of Greenland. He has stated he prefers a peaceful deal but will pursue it forcefully if necessary. This move is seen as a strategic play for geopolitical dominance. Meanwhile, Europe is concerned about the implications for its security and alliances.
Budget 2026 must signal strong reforms to attract foreign investment. With fewer tax incentives, the government needs to weave together measures to boost investor confidence. This is crucial to counter capital outflows and stabilise the economy. The budget needs to be a clear message on reforms, moving beyond isolated announcements to create a compelling narrative.
Writer Anuja Chauhan, non-fiction author Rashmi Bansal, and entrepreneur Mamta Sharma emphasise the importance of being socially selective to protect productivity and mental well-being. Chauhan prioritises genuine interactions over performative social obligations like PTA meetings or conferences.
