13 C 
A routine voter-list verification over a logical discrepancy in a surname opens up a larger, deeply Indian paradox: names that refuse to conform. From colonial-era spellings to caste markers, numerology, regional conventions and generational shifts, Indian surnames have evolved in wildly inconsistent ways.
View: The 72-hour Budget ritual when Indian business folks suddenly turn economists (since 1991)
Every year, Indian business leaders become instant economic experts for a short period. They offer praise for the Union Budget, regardless of its content. This public optimism is a strategy for managing expectations and ensuring stability. Behind closed doors, a more nuanced discussion occurs. The budget speech sets a positive tone for the nation.
At the centre of BSNL's revival is its indigenous 4G stack - a strategic gamble that placed India among a handful of countries capable of providing end-to-end telecom technology. After years of delay and scepticism, BSNL has now deployed nearly 98,000 4G towers, with a software-upgradable path to 5G. This transition reduces dependence on foreign vendors, enhancing security and resilience in an increasingly fragmented global tech landscape.
Budget: Not capital, labour or tech, the binding constraint on Indias growth is something else
Union Budget: India's economic growth faces hurdles from excessive regulations. The upcoming budget needs to prioritise regulatory reform over spending. This involves governing regulators effectively, not just large companies. Policy should encourage firms to grow without fear of regulatory penalties.
Budget 2026: How India can become a global cleantech manufacturing hub
Reward domestic manufacturing Extending domestic value addition mandates under the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) and PLI schemes across solar, wind, batteries, EV components, hydrogen and transmission equipment, with a phased path to 50% by 2029, would provide manufacturers with the certainty needed to invest at scale.
In a turbulent world, India has earned stability; now it must build strength
India's economic resilience, transitioning from stability to strength, is built on steady policy work, moderate inflation, and fiscal consolidation. The nation is now focusing on structural reforms to build manufacturing and export competitiveness, aiming for strategic indispensability in a fragmented global landscape.
Budget 2026: The salaried class is reshaping the economy & expects GoI to focus on its demands
Budget expectations: India's salaried middle class is growing significantly. This expansion is reshaping consumption patterns and boosting financial investments. A larger group of taxpayers now has a stake in economic stability. This growing segment will influence policy debates and electoral outcomes. Their focus is on economic growth and improved living standards.
Indias tax buoyancy slump is a warning for fiscal policy
India's tax revenue growth has slowed significantly in FY26. This creates a challenge for the government balancing economic support and fiscal responsibility. Lower inflation and tax relief contributed to this shortfall. A weakening financial cycle also appears to be impacting tax collections. This trend may continue into FY27, requiring conservative tax forecasts and a strong signal of fiscal discipline.
India goes Intercontinental with landmark EU trade deal
Indias landmark FTA with the EU takes trade to a new scale, boosting exports, jobs and MSMEs while aligning growth with clean energy, resilient supply chains and deeper global integration.
MGNREGA: Why dignity of work matters more than doles in rural welfare
MGNREGA is not a dole but a dignity-based right to work that strengthens rural incomes, womens participation and local assets. Proposed reforms risk weakening its legal guarantee, decentralised planning and support for poorer states.
EU-India FTA sends out a message to the world: Globalisation isnt disappearing, its diversifying
India and the European Union have successfully concluded Free Trade Agreement negotiations. This landmark deal, initiated in 2007, marks a significant commercial and strategic step. The agreement aims to strengthen trade flows between the two entities. It will reduce barriers for Indian businesses entering the EU market. European firms will gain access to India's growing economy.
The unelected guardians of Indian democracy
India's democracy faces challenges as politicians often prioritize personal gain over public interest. However, the nation's constitution, crafted by unelected individuals, established vital independent institutions. These bodies, like the Supreme Court and armed forces, command public respect. They provide essential checks and balances, safeguarding minority rights and ensuring a robust democratic framework beyond mere elections.
Beyond the Davos divorce: Why Indias US problem is bigger than trade
India faces a mixed outlook with Trump's administration, marked by high tariffs and a lack of trade deals, while Pakistan and China gain attention. New US defense strategy sidelines India, focusing on 'strategic stability' with China. Meanwhile, US diplomats are reportedly engaging with Islamist groups in India's neighborhood, raising concerns in Delhi.
Post-subsidy EV India: Why efficiency, trust and localisation matter
As PM E-DRIVE subsidies end, Indias EV shift must move beyond battery size to focus on efficiency, reliability, financing and localisationbuilding a post-subsidy ecosystem rooted in performance, data and consumer trust.
Indias energy sweet spot meets a reform reality check as India Energy Week opens
As India Energy Week opens in Goa, India is in a favourable energy position with ample oil supply, easing prices, and a coming LNG supply boom. Oil prices remain low despite global geopolitical tensions, creating a rare window for difficult but necessary energy reforms.
AI talent war heats up: Why India Inc must build 10x organisations, not chase elite hires
Silicon Valley and India Inc are locked in an AI talent war, but the real edge isnt elite hires. The future belongs to organisations that upskill their entire workforce to use AI fluently and become 10x professionals.
