20 C 
Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Schloss Schauenstein offers a unique culinary journey orchestrated by Chef Andreas Caminada. His innovative tasting menu showcases local ingredients transformed into imaginative dishes, each accompanied by a descriptive card. Beyond the food, the castle provides boutique accommodations, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of Graubunden.
Tax! It's a $492 billion offshore heist!
A new report reveals a shocking $492 billion is lost globally each year to tax dodging, with multinational corporations and wealthy individuals exploiting loopholes and tax havens. The report criticizes the 'Elite Eight' countries, including the US and UK, for enabling this system while simultaneously losing billions in tax revenue.
Before the Mahabharat war, Krishn offered a peaceful resolution by requesting Duryodhan to return Indraprastha or give five villages to the Pandavs, but Duryodhan refused. When both sides sought Krishn's help, Arjun wisely chose Krishn's guidance over his army. The war, fought to uphold dharma, saw the victory of the Pandavs who were aided by the divine presence of Krishn.
GoI needs to cut down its bloated ministries and departments and become streamlined
India faces a challenge to make its government more efficient. Hence, there is a need for a reduction in the number of ministries from the current 55. Moreover, ministries can be also merged with overlapping functions, like education and skill development. This streamlining aims to reduce bureaucracy and improve service delivery. The proposal is bold and may face resistance.
How developing is your country?
At COP29, many nations are questioning the fairness of grouping China and India as 'developing countries'. This label, while granting certain benefits, implies a perpetual state of 'catching up' for nations like South Africa and Bhutan. While this categorization can be advantageous when it comes to climate action responsibilities, it fails to acknowledge the economic diversity within the 'Global South'.
Get a fix on how we fill our prisons
India's overcrowded prisons, with occupancy exceeding 130%, are seeing a glimmer of relief. The government plans to release prisoners convicted of non-heinous crimes who have served a third of their sentence.
America first America alone: Can the Democrats block Donald Trump's controversial nominees?
Donald Trump is building his team. Many are unhappy with his choices. Trump says he has the people's support. Diplomats are trying to understand how to work with him. They know America will offer less help. India will likely not join any anti-US groups. Trump's foreign policy is still forming.
Reflections on a transformative year as Ficci president
The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) under the leadership of its outgoing president, collaborated with the Government of India on initiatives like 'Make in India', 'women-led development', 'farm prosperity', and 'sustainability' to achieve the 'Viksit Bharat' goal by 2027.
India will be the least impacted if Trump imposes any tariffs: Stefan Hofer of LGT Bank
India's long term growth story is intact despite high valuations and FII outflows in the current markets, says Hofer.
An interest-ing blurring of lines
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman sparked debate by advocating for lower bank interest rates to stimulate business investment, despite concerns about food inflation. Her stance echoes calls from industry leaders and raises questions about the government's respect for central bank autonomy in managing inflation and interest rates.
The Director's Guild of America's podcast, The Director's Cut, celebrates its 500th episode with a special look back at its most captivating conversations. The episode revisits discussions with acclaimed directors on their creative processes, offering insights into the making of iconic films from Dune to 1917.
Kyunki saas kabhi soft-ware nahin thi
The author playfully suggests that International Mothers-in-Law Day should be celebrated, humorously highlighting the complex relationship many have with their in-laws. They argue that a dedicated day might foster appreciation and alleviate some inherent tension, referencing the US celebration in October close to Halloween.
Life is full of changes, leaving us craving stability. True stability comes from connecting with God's infinite love, found by looking within ourselves through meditation. Worldly pursuits don't bring lasting happiness. God's love offers immense joy and bliss, leading to a life of stability and fulfillment.
Manipur on the boil: A national crisis in the making The Economic Times
Manipur on the boil: A national crisis in the makingThe Economic Times
India-Sweden pact: Transforming steel & cement for a greener future
India and Sweden have partnered to decarbonize India's heavy industries, focusing on steel and cement. The partnership aims to promote green steel production through hydrogen-based processes, increased scrap utilization, and renewable energy. This collaboration seeks to position India as a leader in sustainable industrial growth while contributing to global climate goals.
We're out on a date with data, Mr Narayana Murthy
While India has faced challenges in data collection due to its large informal economy, the landscape is shifting. Financial inclusion, ecommerce, and smartphone usage are generating valuable datasets.
Two individuals debated the deadly effects of a dense fog. One argued that the fog contained fatal levels of carbonic oxide, leading to widespread death. The other countered that the fog's density caused a fatal accumulation of gritty particles in the lungs, leading to asphyxiation.
China Shock vs US Shock: Xi Jinping's playbook to navigate Trump tensions
At the APEC summit, Xi Jinping urged the US to honor existing agreements as the foundation for their relationship, even as differences arise. China's recent actions, however, including border disputes with India and maritime claims in the South China Sea, raise questions about its commitment to these principles.
Sure, most can't tell T S Eliot From AI Eliot
A new study found that people can't distinguish between AI-generated poetry and human-written poetry. However, the study's participants were not poetry experts and preferred simpler, more accessible poems, suggesting that AI has not yet mastered the nuances of great poetry.
It's a bit rich to resist taxing the super-rich
Brazil is championing a global tax on billionaires to alleviate poverty, but faces opposition from the US and hesitance from other major economies. While the initiative enjoys public support, concerns about economic feasibility and potential capital flight are hindering its progress.
Just as we care for our physical well-being, we must also prioritize our emotional health. This involves clearing out negative thoughts and feelings through meditation and spiritual contemplation. Cultivating self-acceptance, practicing forgiveness, and embracing positive values are crucial for achieving emotional lightness and well-being.
Delhis Air Crisis: A slow murder, Season 2 Why waiting for a 'firefighter' isnt enough
Delhi faces a severe air pollution crisis demanding immediate action. The Supreme Court criticizes authorities for delayed responses and emphasizes their duty to ensure a clean environment. While emergency measures are crucial, a proactive approach is vital to prevent such situations.
View: Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy workout to fight flab
The list of struggling firms getting US government support to stay afloat is a long one. What this does is reduce the natural correction process built into capitalism - failing firms die, new ones grow in their place. It blunts the dynamism of the US economy. Also, it rewards those who brought failure upon their firms and damaged the larger economy in the process. Bankers, for example, went back to receiving big salaries and fat bonuses on the back of government bailouts soon after 2008.
The capacity we have as human beings to continue to feel elated, surprised and wonderstruck several times over, is because we remain in awe of anything beyond our control and a bit overwhelming.
Bobby Darin's 1959 rendition of 'Mack the Knife' is a masterclass in musical storytelling. His smooth vocals, combined with the song's jaunty tempo and dark lyrics, create a captivating contrast. Darin's performance is both charming and sinister, drawing listeners into the world of the notorious Mack the Knife.
What does Trump 2.0 mean for India's AI strategy and global tech landscape?
Donald Trump's potential return to the White House could significantly impact India's technological ambitions. His anticipated techno-nationalist policies, including restricted access to AI innovation and intensified competition, necessitate India's strategic positioning as a key player in the global AI landscape.
Why so serious and rigid, l'Academie?
The Acadmie Franaise, France's language regulator, recently unveiled the ninth edition of its dictionary after decades of revisions. The article argues that the Acadmie's strict control over the French language hinders its growth and adaptability compared to the more inclusive nature of English.
Rebrand 'journalism' in the time of AI
India joins global concerns over social media platforms using news content to train AI without compensation. Lawmakers highlight risks of misinformation and bias, urging tech creators to ensure a balance of natural and synthetic content for ethical AI development. The evolving landscape necessitates a shift in social media's business model and redefines journalism's role in delivering trustworthy information.
Satcom nights live, join the internet party
Satellite internet offers a promising solution for expanding internet access to remote areas and supplementing existing networks. However, high costs associated with satellite deployment and maintenance, along with limited bandwidth and potential congestion issues, pose significant challenges to its widespread adoption.
Sebi's mutual fund NFO timing rule ill-timed? Here's a reality check
Sebi has proposed new rules for Mutual Fund investments. The market regulator wants MFs to invest funds from new schemes within 30 days. If there is a delay, MFs can invest in the next 30 days with permission. Sebi may bar MFs from launching new schemes if they fail to comply.
Epic bus rides with shades and mixed-up bags
An 80-km Bhiwadi-Old Delhi daily commute can teach you many life lessons
Stand apart from Bimbo sisterhood
Shalini Passi, the newest addition to Netflix's 'Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives,' is turning heads with her unique approach to wealth. Unlike her castmates, Passi embraces art, culture, and self-expression, setting a new standard for Delhi's elite.
Songs that launch a thousand memes
From Taher Shah's 'Eye to Eye' to Dhinchak Pooja's 'Selfie Maine Leli Aaj', the Subcontinent, along with the West, has mastered the art of 'meme music'. These songs, often low-budget and musically questionable, provide a much-needed dose of laughter and absurdity in a world saturated with serious music.
Frankfurtive glances from the very heart of global book trade
Frankfurt Book Fair 2024 had publishers, including the only participating university press from India, making a big deal of book deals and Dylan nearly visiting (he complained instead)
Birsa Munda a symbol of resistance, empowerment
Chhattisgarh is honoring the legacy of tribal leader Birsa Munda by implementing welfare initiatives that empower tribal communities. These initiatives focus on enhancing self-reliance, economic growth, and cultural preservation. The state government is committed to providing better infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities to tribal populations, ensuring their voices are heard in the development process.
Unite to fight noxious November
Or else the only option would be a new capital region to give this one some time to rejuvenate
Trump's health head is Bob's your uncle
Donald Trump has appointed Bobby Kennedy Jr., a known vaccine skeptic, as the Secretary of Health. This decision has surprised many, given Trump's previous praise for vaccines. Some speculate that this move is a strategic maneuver to defy expectations and potentially foster unconventional policy approaches.
Guard rails for capitalism, not AI
Sam Altman's firing and reinstatement at OpenAI marked a turning point for AI, shifting its focus from societal good to a tool for productivity and profit. While AI has the potential to revolutionize various aspects of life, concerns arise about its potential to exacerbate existing inequalities within the capitalist system.
Indian companies must up their game for tech-abled next-gen momentum diversification
Indian businesses are embracing 'momentum diversification' (MD), leveraging technology and customer trust to expand into unrelated sectors. This trend, fueled by a growing digital-native population, is redefining traditional brand extension strategies and creating unprecedented growth opportunities across industries.
India, a war zone for foreign travellers
Severe air pollution in northern India, particularly in the Indo-Gangetic Plain, is causing significant concern. The pollution, worsened by factors like stubble burning and industrial emissions, is impacting visibility and posing health risks. While a government panel has been formed to address the issue, its effectiveness remains to be seen.
India's roadmap to doubling energy efficiency: A key to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070
India is committed to doubling energy efficiency to achieve its climate goals, including reducing carbon intensity by 45% and GHG emissions by 1 billion tonnes by 2030. The nation champions sustainable progress through improved energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, and innovative technologies for cleaner energy systems. Collaboration, financing, and supportive policies are crucial for success.
Branded as tasteful, we can serve it up
India's diverse culinary heritage needs protection from globalization. The article proposes a system of geographical indication and standardized processes for traditional recipes, similar to France and Japan. This approach empowers local communities, preserves culinary traditions, and boosts tourism by creating a sustainable ecosystem around artisanal food.
A Navajo elder, encountering astronauts training for a moon mission, requested to send a message to the moon. His message, met with laughter and refusal for translation by his tribe, was later revealed to be a warning by a government translator, claiming the astronauts' intent to steal the moon's land.
Googles new GenAI podcast tool is exciting but how useful is it for business?
A feature added by an online research tool that Alphabet released last year can now turn documents into an eerily human-sounding podcast. With the value of GenAI being questioned, Google must find ways to make this tool useful for business users.
Equities reign atop the league table of investment returns
In terms of return on investment, investors face a classic choice between fixed-income instruments and equities. Even though the performance of shares has been impressive over both the past decade and last six months, people looking for a steady flow of income should go for fixed-income options.
Nouriel Roubini: Harriss economic policy proposals arent as risky as Trump's
While Kamala Harriss fiscal, trade, climate, immigration, currency and China policies seem to be a continuation of US President Joe Biden's plans and promise relative economic stability, Trumps agenda is more likely to cause inflation, reduce GDP growth and blow up the budget.
Quick-commerce players should come clean on their pricing game
Are quick delivery services using predatory prices? While its for the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to decide on probing their allegedly unfair market practices, Zepto, Blinkit and Instamart may find it worthwhile to fend off suspicions with pricing transparency.
Mint Quick Edit | Can a thaw over the LAC restore India-China ties?
Four years plus after the Galwan hostilities, India and China have agreed on disengagement and patrolling. Theres a long way ahead for mutual ties to normalize, but lets not under-exploit the potential of a better economic relationship.
A key factor for Marwaris remarkable economic prosperity lies in their informal institutional framework, which enable them to leverage trade credit effectively
Organic rice exports: sift grain from chaff
Steep hike in penalties for fraud under the National Programme of Organic Products and blacklisting erring firms are the need of the hour
Letters to the Editor dated October 21, 2024
Improving credit penetration in Bihar
RBIs priority sector lending guidelines have a key role to play in providing credit to small farmers, artisans and micro firms
Court reaffirms need for limited judicial intervention
Mitigate the impact of global shocks on Indias financial sector
To safeguard a financial system exposed to major vulnerabilities, India must bolster regulatory frameworks, crisis management and cybersecurity, and also reduce credit misallocation. Stability and sustained economic growth may depend on it.
Marijuana use is growing fast but its health impact is still a mystery
Cannabis consumption is rising in the US and Kamala Harris favours legalizing it across the country. But research studies remain woefully sketchy on what THC use at various dosage levels can do to the health of this drugs regular users.
Daron Acemoglu: Can the world escape a new gilded age?
Billionaires wield extraordinary power and influence today. Think of Elon Musk and his ownership of X. We could escape another gilded age if we pursue stronger institutional means to limit the influence of the ultra privileged and reconsider the policies that have created such extreme disparities.
Musks SpaceX has taken significant leaps in space exploration
The companys breakthroughs go beyond cost-effective reusable rockets for space launches. It has had many tech spinoffs, while its Starlink has democratized internet access. Its innovations serve not just humanitys future, but also the present.
Theres much Indian philanthropists can do for mental healthcare
Rather than simply spreading awareness about it, mental healthcare should be framed as a human right, focusing on accessibility and non-discrimination. We must push for policy and cultural shifts in favour of an inclusive framework that encourages multiple voices, perspectives and narratives.
The makeover of Lady Justice is a moment to reflect on our ideals
Indias Constitution replaces a sword and the blindfold has been cast off. While this is a judicious reform of judicial iconography and a worthy move by the Judiciary to shed its colonial baggage, it should prompt us to recall John Rawls veil of ignorance and Amartya Sens view of justice.
Mint Quick Edit | Hyundais IPO: What kept retail investors away?
The public response to Hyundais share offer was underwhelming, but was this because of its pricing and perceptions of its market prospects, or does it mark a turn in investor sentiment?
Rage spills over on roads; reels only fan the fire
In 2022, Delhi witnessed 76 road rage cases, which went up to 84 the next year
Agenda for the new government in J&K
The Valley is on the threshold of a transformation in its polity and economy
The real scope of emissions protocol
Green risks. Disclosures relating to Scope 3 of the GHG Protocol are the most difficult to implement
Trade union recognition and the law
The case of Samsung union recognition is in the court
Manu Joseph: The spectacle of SpaceXs rocket catch is how science has failed
The companys recent feat was overhyped. We should acknowledge that science has been a big disappointment. This may be because there has been a brain drain from real science.
India needs to watch out for a remodelled EU thats taking shape
Political dynamics within the European Union could spell increasing bad news for India. With CBAM levies on the horizon, we may face even more EU protectionism, making an EU-India free trade agreement harder to strike.
Sorry, Powell cant be called the greatest Fed chair ever
Even if the Fed achieves a soft landing for the US economy, Jerome Powells record is marred by a failure to hold inflation in check. The Feds delayed efforts to withdraw its pandemic infusion of liquidity created asset bubbles and distorted the US housing market.
An open platform for e-commerce can transform Indias economy
Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) is an all-inclusive e-commerce platform that serves the public aim of linking the entire country for wide economic participation. Its a worthy addition to the countrys digital public infrastructure.
Gradual or surge? One way or another, India needs greater military might.
To strengthen defence preparedness, Indias spending on it must rise sharply. The pace we choose is the question and this depends on how adequately the country is equipped to tide through the dramatically different world now inhabit.
Letters to the Editor dated October 18, 2024
Editorial. Satcom can complement telecom services in remote areas
Tech advancements have made it possible for satcom players to offer seamless broadband connectivity directly to the users smartphones, bypassing traditional cell towers
US elections fear and tension in the final stretch
Seasoned pundits are reluctant to call the election; there are too many imponderables in a belligerent contest
Enabling ecosystem vital for green hydrogen boost
The govt has identified critical ecosystem enablers and taken favourable policy decisions, but more needs to be done to cut production costs
Daron Acemoglus three-point roadmap for Indias tech leadership
The 2024 Nobel laureate shares three key recommendations. Graduate from being a talent nation to an innovation hothouse, formulate a global tech strategy that includes alliances and push for technology that puts humans first.
Indermit Gill on what China and India must do to join the rich club
First invest, then infuse foreign technology and then innovate, says the World Banks chief economist
Leaders must stay coachable to unlock their true leadership potential
Leaders must embrace continuous learning, be open to critical feedback and make personal changes that could propel their professional growth. Such adaptability is critical for leaders to stay relevant in a fast-changing world of business.
Mission Europa: What secrets will this moon of Jupiter reveal?
Nasas mission to a Galilean moon of Jupiter thats encrusted in a thick shell of ice will let us know if its bulky ocean has signs of life. The lure, of course, is watera vital resource that weve failed so starkly to secure on Earth.
Editorial. China market stimulus may not impact Indias FPI flows
While foreign funds may be buying Chinese equity for the short-term, the Indian market offers better returns for long-term investors
IMF does a volte-face on forex market management
It actually advocates central bank, government intervention to mitigate risks; admits flexible exchange rates may not work
Looking into our export basket
GAINS AND LOSSES. There is a need for export diversification and an effort to sustain growth in high-performing sectors
Machine tool industry can give manufacturing a boost
As the cornerstone of the manufacturing sector, the machine tools sector can scale up with innovation, competitiveness and a commitment to excellence
3-raters in corporates deserve respect
Diversification of fund sources needed for NBFCs
Gutfeel advice: Make space for intuition in a data-dazzled world
Data can dissect problems, identify patterns and provide clarity in a way that intuition cannot. But when confronted with abstract issues or when the data available is irrelevant, the best choice is often one that feels righta judgement that comes from the depth of experience.
T.N.Hari:Venture capital is yet to bet big money on high-risk deep-tech startups
VCs have largely stuck to relatively low-risk areas where startups fix immediate well-defined problems, despite falling returns, as the deep tech ecosystem is still in infancy. In time, we can expect VCs to start funding bolder ventures.
Ritesh Banglani: Yes, Indian venture capitalists do fund moonshot ideas
More than a startups technology, its impact reveals the quality of an investment, and venture capital has made truly daring bets in India. As for deep-tech risk appetite, think of how many space-tech startups VCs have fundedthats literally rocket science.
Lets not underestimate the risk of over-financialization
Indias swelling base of investors, IPO exuberance and soaring market capitalization as a ratio of GDP all suggest over-financialization that may result in financial instability. Rein in over-extended markets without letting the real economy take a blow.
Food inflation: Blame supply shortfalls as well as bad policy interventions
Knee-jerk reactions to price spikes have included food export curbs and stock limits, but these short-term actions to tame prices have often meant farmers had little reason to up output. We need public investment in well-regulated markets, storage facilities and distribution networks.
Mint Quick Edit | How to deal with hoax bomb threats
Indian airlines have received at least 13 false bomb threats in the past 48 hours alone, causing passengers stress and the industry losses. Can disruptors be deterred? Foolproof security may be our surest bet.
