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Donald Trump's return as the 47th President of the United States was marked by an ambitious inaugural address, promising a golden age of America driven by bold leadership, energy independence, and strong borders.
It is easier to engage in social and political activities as a respectable escape from everyday drudgery than to comprehend life's entirety. This superficial engagement, shaped by the interaction of inner cravings and outer experiences, overlooks the need for holistic integration beyond mere political and economic reconciliations.
Don't misread Supreme Court's arbitration ruling
The Supreme Court's ruling prohibits unilateral appointment of arbitrators, emphasizing neutral and transparent arbitration processes. Despite concerns in the industry, parties can still refer disputes to arbitration institutions, ensuring impartial arbitrator selection and efficiency. Institutional arbitration can aid in handling various disputes effectively.
Americans, how to live without TikTok
Americans are grappling with TikTok's temporary ban, with teens especially affected. Indian users, who adapted to live without TikTok since June 2020, offer advice: embrace activities and privacy beyond social media. Discover new addictive habits while potentially boosting the economy. Adjusting to life without TikTok could elevate ones social presence on other platforms like Instagram and Facebook reels.
Developer handling real estate magnate
With Trump back in office, the strong India-US relationship, particularly since the US-India nuclear deal, could become more transactional. Biden had strengthened ties, and recent removals of Indian entities from the US 'Entity List' signified progress. Continued collaboration in critical technologies remains vital amidst geopolitical competition.
Budget 2025: How to switch back to fast lane
Budget 2025: The upcoming budget amid economic uncertainty highlights inflation control, boosting rural and urban consumption, and job creation. Key steps include e-vouchers, increased capital expenditure, a National Youth Service Scheme, and tax simplification. The government focuses on reforms to enhance India's economic resilience.
Import of measuring our import basket
India aims to balance its trade deficit with the US by boosting oil and arms imports as geopolitical dynamics shift. However, limitations persist due to India's large trade deficits with China and its position within BRICS. Furthermore, tariff protection and manufacturing challenges also factor into the trade negotiations.
Don't lose sleep over US chip rule
US export controls on chips are unlikely to impact India's AI hardware growth. India operates within existing limits set by the Biden administration. Restrictions on China could benefit India by redirecting AI development work. India has significant potential as a semiconductor manufacturing hub, aligning with US technological goals without challenging them.
Gears could shift, keep hands steady
President Donald Trump's possible transactional diplomacy could alter the institutionalized and broad-based India-US ties fostered under Joe Biden and Narendra Modi. The Biden administration recently reinforced this relationship by removing three Indian entities from the US Entity List, enhancing bilateral collaboration and fostering critical technology development while solidifying India's global influence.
As Trump 2.0 begins, the world is poised for change India must find new paths to manage shifts
Donald Trump's renewed presidency signifies a pivotal cultural shift in America and a strategic approach towards global power dynamics. His China stance and uncertain policies offer potential shifts in the India-US relationship, focusing on technology, trade, and geopolitical alliances. India faces critical choices amidst its economic and tech future, balancing US partnerships and domestic advancements.
The protagonist reflects on her interaction with a considerate husband, who maintains an optimal balance in his drinking habits, amidst his well-stocked fridge of Belgian beer. Despite initial apprehensions, she finds his behavior acceptable and professional, ensuring a peaceful last night together. The husband's peculiar habit of buying alcohol impulsively is noted without leading to negative outcomes.
The article emphasizes the importance of monitoring and improving our thoughts, words, and actions, likening it to financial accounting. By fostering positivity and kindness, we can enrich our lives and those of others. Spiritual guidance and meditation can help connect us with our inner divine light and lead a meaningful life.
Trump's inauguration on Martin Luther King Day signals a shift in US foreign & domestic policies
Donald Trump's presidency is seen as controversial for opposing Martin Luther King Jr's values of equality and justice. Trump's foreign policy shifts are anticipated to impact US's global alliances, encourage militarization among nations, and challenge India's strategic autonomy. Indian diplomacy needs agility to navigate these dynamic global interdependencies.
When it's so-o-o bad that it's, well, good
Jamie Lee Matthias, an accountant turned viral sensation, gained fame not for his artistic prowess but for his comically bad paintings. His first viral piece was a wedding portrait that amused viewers with its lack of proportion. With 73 commissions and widespread online popularity, Matthias finds success in embracing and sharing his art's imperfections.
Indo-US pharma alliance: Time to up the game
In today's VUCA world, India's pharmaceutical industry plays a crucial role in US healthcare, supplying cost-effective generic medicines and biosimilars. The partnership promises economic and national security benefits through diversified supply chains, and joint manufacturing initiatives, setting a global precedent for resilient and accessible healthcare systems.
Anusheh Anadil's powerful voice brings new life to the classic Bengali song 'Tomar ghore' from Bangla's debut album. This rendition of Lalon Fakir's composition blends the mystical with the real, exploring themes of creation and destruction. Anadil's captivating performance is a celebration of life's diverse experiences, all encapsulated under one metaphorical roof.
Maharashtra: The state that means business at Davos
Maharashtra is set to showcase its economic success at the World Economic Forum, emphasizing sustainable growth, robust infrastructure, and dynamic policies. With strong industrial transformation initiatives and a commitment to green and efficient practices, Maharashtra aims to attract global investments and drive India's economic growth. Emerging regions and future-focused developments further highlight its potential for exponential growth.
View: Trump is a product of, not cause for, a return to an era of spheres of influence
As Donald Trump assumes the presidency, there is significant debate about his administration impacting the U.S. foreign policy. There is a focus on great power competition and a return to geopolitical frameworks like balance of power and spheres of influence. This approach may affect various global relationships and regional strategies, including India's role in countering Chinese expansion.
Put climate at the centre, for growth
India must prioritize climate action in Budget 2025 to decarbonize the economy, build resilience, and mitigate the high costs of inaction. Investment in sturdy assets, infrastructure, and R&D for low-carbon solutions is essential, while addressing air pollution through clean energy and public transport improvements.
Davostsav, sparkier minus the riff-raff
Davos, once a 'must-attend' corporate hotspot, is regaining exclusivity post-Covid. With fewer attendees pursuing mere visibility, the focus has shifted to substantial discussions on fiscal policies, AI, and decarbonisation, moving away from celebrity obsessions to impactful dialogue among true influencers.
Durable liquidity on tap most welcome
RBI's decision to inject 50k cr daily through variable rate repo auctions signals an acknowledgment of liquidity issues in the money market. While this measure provides temporary relief, the market requires more durable solutions such as CRR cuts or bond purchases, hinting at a potential policy shift towards daily repo auctions.
A leader must possess a vision and share it effectively, embracing criticism for growth. True leadership emphasizes unselfishness, simplicity, sound judgment, and compassion. Leaders are distinct from politicians by prioritizing nation-building over personal empire-building, as exemplified by Emperor Ashoka's transformation. Leadership means living for others and guiding with principles rooted in righteousness and humanitarian values.
Earthlings, very soon there'll be more Indians outside India than inside
The growing Indian diaspora in global cities like Toronto, London, and Melbourne is resulting in tensions among Indians themselves. Social media is filled with debates and incidents of conflicts, highlighting cultural and generational differences. This widespread Indian presence is influencing various aspects of life overseas, from cricket matches to everyday interactions.
Going into the closet, with a movie-shopping tote bag
The writer reminisces about dreaming of the Criterion Closet, selecting influential films from their past. They recall vivid memories of watching these movies, each associated with a significant moment or personal revelation. The writer also reflects on their admiration for the quality of The Criterion Collection DVDs, although they have never owned one.
The confessions of a non-workaholic
Indrajit Hazra explores his relationship with work, distinguishing between being a workaholic and having an excessive desire to work. He reflects on how modern society glorifies work, drawing parallels with historical and mythological contexts, and concluding that he finds purpose rather than pleasure in his labor.
View: Because bad construction is good business
The lasting nature of ancient architecture contrasts sharply with modern construction's short lifespan and lack of environmental consideration. Wildfires in California expose the vulnerabilities of wooden homes amidst climate change. Modern constructions often prioritize aesthetics over long-term resilience. This trend extends to India with concrete structures that are less durable than traditional brick buildings, raising concerns about sustainability.
Rich individuals expressing gratitude on social media often avoid taking accountability for their actions, presenting a facade of humility. The concept of gratitude is tied to various religious interpretations, with Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain mythologies emphasizing debt and investment. Wealth and human exploitation of nature are highlighted, suggesting the importance of balance and genuine generosity.
Walking over to the balcony... in space
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore performed a spacewalk from the ISS for overdue repair work, representing Williams' first outdoor activity since their arrival over seven months ago. The mission was extended unexpectedly due to initial plans' setbacks, highlighting the astronauts' adaptation and endurance in space.
People often struggle with letting go of things, but it's crucial to recognize and release the ideas, feelings, and desires that cause unhappiness. By harnessing mindfulness and understanding the roots of our emotions, we can identify what truly brings us joy and practice the art of letting go, despite our fears.
Conspiracy theories about the US deep state destabilising India are bunkum
Conspiracy theories regarding a deep state destabilising India are undermined by strong US-India relations in defense and trade. The allegations reflect India's reluctance to address internal issues such as corruption and unpopular governance. The theories divert attention from actual cooperation and development between the two nations.
Ensuring cleanliness at India's major pilgrimage sites: Lessons from Mahakumbh 2025
India's places of pilgrimage see millions of visitors, and maintaining cleanliness and hygiene is crucial. Initiatives like Swachh Bharat Mission have improved conditions at major events such as Kumbh 2019, aiming for sustainable sanitation. Mahakumbh 2025 will leverage technology and systematic measures for a clean environment. Replicating this model nationwide at tourist centres can enhance overall visitor experience.
Goodbye, joe, he gotta go, me-o my-o
Joe Biden concludes his presidency with executive actions to protect institutions, marking a significant shift from his predecessor. Biden maintained Trump's stance on the WTO despite his multilateralism commitment. The Trump tariffs on China remain, and a similar approach on Iran, Israel, and the Quad can be expected from the next administration.
HNIs, buy-sell more in a mature art mkt
Delhi is witnessing a thriving art scene with 'The Art of India 2025' at India Habitat Centre and the upcoming India Art Fair 2025 at NSIC Exhibition Grounds. Although demand and quality are growing, India's art market is still developing. Enhancing market efficiency, broadening the buyer pool, and reducing state sponsorship can accelerate progress.
Settling onto the grass in a serene field on a winter's day invites pure bliss. The sun's cool warmth and the scent of grass create a peaceful haven. Daily stresses fade, with a profound sense of contentment and connection to the earth, as boundless possibilities emerge under the vast sky.
In Hindu cosmology, endless cycles of creation and dissolution occur, with a period of pralay likened to a black hole ending all life on earth. Srimad Narayan is depicted as resting on Sheshashahi, symbolizing energy and matter crucial for cosmic creation, paralleling the concept of a white hole.
Three cheers for our sports heroes, but...
World Chess champion Gukesh - whose splendid victory in Singapore in December fell outside the stipulated 4-yr awards cycle - made the Khel Ratna list despite not applying or being nominated by the All India Chess Federation. This shows inconsistencies in the system.
Social media needs moat-building
Mark Zuckerberg's emphasis on global political change, including India, was an error by Meta. With Trump's re-election, Meta alters content moderation to fit new political realities, reflecting tensions with China and discussions on free speech. Social media's approach to free speech and content moderation faces challenges.
Howling at the moon under threat
The World Monuments Fund has listed the moon among threatened cultural heritages due to increasing lunar activities without adequate preservation measures. This concern arises as the moon faces potential over-tourism and environmental risks, similar to popular Earth destinations, without local inhabitants to enforce regulations.
India should resist Western pressure on net zero and decarbonise at its pace
The average global temperature reached 1.6 C above pre-industrial levels in 2024, confirming the hottest year on record. However, activists' severe predictions have not materialized. The focus should be on gradual decarbonization and developing new technologies without sacrificing development, as alarmist scenarios have proven exaggerated.
The Davos Prelude: Navigating technology disruptions for inclusive economic growth
Geo-economic fragmentation, geopolitical tensions, and conflicting values impact global communities. Rapid innovation and interconnected technology like AI and green tech may boost productivity by 2030. Inclusive digital economies, digital literacy, public-private partnerships, ethical AI regulations, and sustainable growth are essential for a resilient future.
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.
Public share offers arent raising much capital for new ventures
While IPOs historically raised money to forge new paths and expand businesses, their purpose has changed. These days, most IPOs are offers for sale, with promoters and other shareholders selling their shares to the public. Some equity sellers are VC and PE players aiming to cash out.
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.
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
Ceding ground on government procurement would impair the use of this instrument for boosting local economic capacity
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.
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
Greenwashing guidelines good, but could be sharper
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
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.
The killing of Yahya Sinwar: Not the endgame?
Yahya Sinwar is gone, but the Israel-Hamas wars deeper existential battles remain unresolved.
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
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.
Mint Quick Edit | Indias row of ducks in cricket: What went wrong?
A bad decision to bat first? A ball that swung too much under overcast conditions? A score of 46 all out against New Zealand in Bengaluru is as dismal as it gets. Lets see how the team fares in its second innings.
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
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.
Allocate or auction spectrum? Let Indias telecom policy goals settle
Satellite spectrum allotment should go by what the country hopes to achieve. For the inclusion of underserved areas, we should go for cheap allocation. In urban India, however, we should aim for a level playing field to maximize competition.
Monetary policy cant quell stubborn food inflation
Monetary policy cannot do very much to control food inflation, given that it is caused by supply bottlenecks rather than increase in demand
Does deposit insurance make the cut?
Coverage of bank deposit insurance in India has improved since 2020, but premium collection can be linked to risk
