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Indian tourists abroad: Viral reels, volume travel and culture clash debate
A reflection on viral videos of Indian tourists abroad, exploring debates over travel behaviour, Instagram culture, and the tension between sightseeing volume and cultural appreciation.
The rich won't just have more money. They'll have more intelligence.
The future of intelligence may be monetized, with AI assistants offering tiered plans like 'AI Lite' for the underprivileged and 'AI Ultra Max Quantum Executive' for the wealthy. This shift could create an 'intelligence divide,' where access to advanced AI dictates societal standing.
Be proud & don't flatter yourself, days of the nightie are upon us
The humble Indian nightie, a symbol of practical modesty and comfort, is emerging as a powerful, yet overlooked, industry. Beyond its domestic role, this garment represents a vast, decentralized supply chain with immense potential for growth and formal recognition.
Why Indias digital ecosystem may define next phase of agentic AI and invisible computing
India's unique relationship with technology, where smartphones serve as the sole device for millions, positions it as a crucial testing ground for AI's next phase. Moving beyond simple question-and-answer models, agentic AI will integrate seamlessly into daily life, acting on habits and context.
Anime's global appeal is skyrocketing, with international markets now driving over half of its revenue. This boom is fueled by streaming platforms and lucrative brand collaborations, transforming anime into a global IP powerhouse. While blockbuster movies and expanding international production signal immense growth, the industry grapples with underpaid workers and talent shortages, prompting exploration of AI solutions to ease production burdens.
India's clean energy transition needs cleaner industrial supply chains
India's clean energy ambitions depend not just on renewable capacity but also on decarbonising industries. Cleaner supply chains, green manufacturing and low-carbon technologies are key to achieving net-zero goals.
Put a freeze on extreme heat: Why India needs more than just heatwave warnings
India faces severe heatwaves. Dangerous heat now affects large areas with little relief. This crisis demands action beyond meteorology. Heat resilience needs to be integrated into daily governance. Public infrastructure like shade and ventilation is crucial. Dedicated public finance is required for cooling solutions. Heat is now a fundamental development issue for India's public safety.
Markets ride the 'Trump Put' as TACO trade gains ground
Under Donald Trump's administration, the financial landscape has been anything but stable. Traders have learned to navigate through his tariff strategies and comments regarding the Iran conflict, identifying consistent trends in the markets. This has led to dramatic shifts in stock prices and currencies, opening up opportunities for those skilled in derivatives trading.
Five reforms India needs before the next shock
India faces economic vulnerabilities from external crises. Five reforms are proposed to build resilience. These include reducing gold and crude oil imports, attracting stable foreign capital, curbing tax demands, fixing GST litigation, and boosting R&D investment. Implementing these changes will strengthen India's economic future.
Gold rush missed: Can India dig its way out of import dependence?
India's significant gold imports, exceeding 800 tonnes in 2024 while producing only 2 tonnes, highlight a missed opportunity. Learning from China's efficient domestic production and exploration excellence, India could revive its gold mining sector. This requires foreign capital, technology, and investor protections like Bilateral Investment Treaties to attract necessary investment for discoveries.
Why the world is betting on China again, and what India must do about it
China's business environment prioritizes market share with strong government backing. The nation has shifted to high-quality, high-speed production. This ascent, driven by plans like 'Made in China', faces future challenges from debt and demographics. India can learn from China's execution while leveraging its own strengths. The time for India to act is now.
How India can win in a rewired global economy
India is poised to gain from global supply chain shifts. Strategic neutrality and domestic focus are key. The nation must build robust buffers and implement targeted industrial policies. International cooperation is vital. India can lead in AI adoption and data centres. Seizing this moment will create significant economic opportunities.
Stuck in acres of mediocre: External shocks expose India's slide into middle-income stagnation
India's economy is experiencing a slowdown. High growth and low inflation mask underlying issues of weak demand and poor productivity. This situation is pushing India towards a middle-income trap, a path previously taken by other nations. External shocks are highlighting structural weaknesses like jobs and wages crises.
When environmental rules stall housing, not pollution
India's environmental clearance process often delays urban housing projects, raising costs and slowing jobs without improving protection. A risk-based system could speed low-impact projects while safeguarding sensitive areas.
MoU is less: Trump's birthday breakthrough has strings attached
A deal is reached between Donald Trump and Iran to end the war. A 14-point memorandum of understanding will be signed, followed by a 60-day ceasefire. Negotiations will cover Iran's nuclear program and other critical matters. This development follows numerous attempts and international mediation. The agreement aims for a permanent end to hostilities and sanctions relief for Iran.
US actions are testing global limits. Iran deal, Indian sailor deaths, G7 summit divisions and tech export bans are among the top examples of this. Trying to force compliance without collaboration is weakening US influence. This approach is causing friction and raising trust issues.
China's subsidy edge poses biggest challenge to Make in India
As Indian manufacturers navigate the challenging waters of global trade, they find themselves increasingly overshadowed by Chinese businesses that enjoy significant state backing. An OECD report underscores the disparity, revealing that Chinese firms are often recipients of extensive subsidies, tax incentives, and affordable credit, which gives them a much-needed edge.
What Maruti-Suzuki can teach India-Japan
The Maruti-Suzuki collaboration brought global manufacturing to India, democratising transportation and boosting the middle class. This partnership provided advanced Japanese technology and developed India's industrial capabilities. It created a world-class auto ecosystem. Maruti-Suzuki's success offers a blueprint for future India-Japan collaborations, like in the semiconductor industry.
