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Apple hasn't fallen far from iTree
Celebrating 50 years of trailblazing advancements, Apple has transformed the tech landscape and fueled artistic imagination. Its iconic marketing strategies have created a formidable brand identity. As they unveil fresh products and harness the power of AI, India plays a pivotal role as both a manufacturing powerhouse and a vibrant market.
Transgressionary state: Transgender Amendment Act is a step back on freedom, democracy and growth
India's Transgender Act faces criticism for undermining individual rights and autonomy. This law's restrictions on self-determination and the imposition of medical scrutiny are seen as detrimental to economic growth. Experts argue that curtailing freedoms, even for a minority, harms national development. The Act is viewed as a step backward for freedom, democracy, and progress in India.
Unlocking $161 billion: What India must do to boost China exports
China is the world's second-largest importer after the US, with total imports valued at about $2.6 tn in 2024. Yet, India's share in China's imports stands at a mere 0.7%. These numbers point to an underexploited opportunity of considerable magnitude.
Target set, aim, release: India sticks to climate course with NDC 3.0
India has updated its climate targets for 2031-35. The new goals aim for increased non-fossil fuel electricity, reduced emissions intensity, and a larger carbon sink. Despite initial perceptions of modesty, these targets reaffirm India's dedication to global climate efforts. The nation is ready to actively participate in tackling climate change, emphasizing collaboration among all stakeholders.
Under Fire but Not Broken: How Iran is using Hormuz to push back
Iran is surprisingly resilient after US and Israeli attacks. By blocking the Strait of Hormuz, Tehran has escalated war costs for its enemies. This move has disrupted global oil supplies and impacted economies worldwide. Diplomatic efforts are underway to resolve the crisis. The situation highlights Iran's strategic leverage despite military challenges.
India's foreign policy focuses on securing energy and protecting assets during the Gulf War. Global economies face widespread fears of supply disruption and inflation. The conflict's impact could extend to the early 2030s. India and Pakistan share similar goals for their citizens. Regional powers have differing interests regarding Iran's role. Israel's strategy diverges from India's.
The AI era needs a defining gadget. Jony Ive, who shaped the smartphone, is now working with OpenAI on a new AI device. This aims to redefine our computer interaction. Early attempts have struggled. The smartphone itself might evolve. Ive's new creation could be screenless and ambient, shifting focus from screens to presence.
Phubbing killing pubbing: How phones silence social life
Phubbing, a catchy term for the act of snubbing someone in favor of your phone, is infiltrating social settings like cafs and bars, eroding the essence of face-to-face conversations. Individuals, captivated by their devices, risk not only their personal relationships but also the vibrancy of local businesses.
What does one eat in Kyrgyzstan? Korea, Japan come to the rescue
Snow blankets Bishkek as travelers seek food. Kyrgyzstan's cuisine relies on meat. A vegetarian partner faces challenges. Japanese and Korean restaurants offer alternatives. These culinary finds mirror past experiences in other countries. The city's Soviet-era architecture and Ala-Too Square provide a historical backdrop. The Epic of Manas resonates with the past's presence.
'Not a wife, but a widow can realise the importance of life insurance'
A man named Bharat Parekh helps bereaved families in India discover forgotten life insurance policies. Billions of rupees remain unclaimed because families do not discuss investments openly. Men often die with financial secrets, leaving behind unknown assets or debts. Parekh's work highlights the importance of life insurance and the need for families to communicate about finances.
A mad T party at the White House (with apologies to Lewis Carroll)
Alice finds the March Hare and Mad Hatter at a White House tea party. They offer Kool-Aid and engage in nonsensical conversation. The Hatter poses a riddle about a THAAD missile defence system. The Dormouse speaks in Spanish. The Cheshire Cat appears and offers cryptic advice about strategic autonomy before vanishing. The scene highlights a surreal encounter.
The intertwining of colonial ambition and Brahminic scholarship led to a revised interpretation of Hinduism that echoes Western religious structures. This alteration dismissed the traditional social frameworks and ritualistic nuances inherent in the faith. Textual interpretations adapted to fit philosophical standards, effectively marginalizing the importance of caste and ritual. This reimagined version of Hinduism significantly influences its modern identity.
Why not dhoties in the workplace?
Indian men largely avoid traditional attire like dhoti-kurta for work, preferring Western suits. While women wear sarees, men hesitate to adopt Indian wear professionally. This reluctance persists despite India's growing confidence and the practicality of climate-appropriate clothing. The article suggests a shift towards embracing Indian attire, similar to other cultures, for professional settings.
Legislative dignity for Harish Ranas: The legal journey shaping Indias right to die debate
India's journey towards the right to die with dignity has seen major milestones. The Harish Rana case marks a significant step, applying the best interest principle in end-of-life decisions. This ruling considers both medical and non-medical factors, prioritizing the patient's potential choices. While the judiciary has advanced this right, legislative action is now crucial for its effective realization.
India is launching its first phase of Noida International Airport, aiming to become a global transit hub. This ambitious project faces hurdles beyond infrastructure, requiring a coordinated ecosystem of aviation services. Unlike established hubs like Dubai and Singapore, India relies on private sector investment and market forces. The nation is working to attract international traffic and build its aviation capabilities.
Follow her lead & lead the way: Why gender-diverse leadership must shape governance
Gender-diverse leadership offers more than just representation. It reshapes governance, shifting power from domination to stewardship. Organizations perform better when diverse voices are heard and integrated. This inclusive approach fosters equity, resilience, and legitimacy. Women leaders bring valuable perspectives, especially in navigating complex talent dynamics and addressing risks.
A US jury found Meta and Google negligent for platform design causing mental harm. This follows a New Mexico verdict against Meta. Governments worldwide are enacting laws to protect children online. India is urged to act swiftly. New legislation aims to regulate social media use for minors, addressing neurochemical vulnerabilities exploited by platforms.
How I-T Act 2025 can reduce litigation and advance ease of doing business
India's upcoming I-T Act 2025 offers a chance to build certainty in tax administration. Implementing a modern digital manual and system-level safeguards can prevent disputes arising from procedural errors and computational mistakes. This proactive approach aims to reduce the substantial litigation burden and enhance ease of doing business for taxpayers.
