The Economic Times

West Bengal faces a significant employment crisis. Decades of industrial policy challenges and land reform successes have created a complex situation. Recent land disputes, like those in Singur and Deocha-Pachami, continue to impede industrial growth. The state's upcoming elections focus on welfare, while industrial investment remains elusive. This ongoing land debate is a key development puzzle.

In a groundbreaking shift, mutual funds will now price gold and silver according to Indian exchange rates, stepping away from the traditional London benchmarks. This move boosts both transparency and precision for investors, signaling India's rising presence in the global gold market.

The landscape of global commerce is undergoing a transformation as uncertainty grips West Asia. Rising to prominence is the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a strategic initiative designed to link India, the Gulf, and Europe. This corridor not only aims to enhance trade flows but also to elevate the Mediterranean's significance in global logistics.

In a world where strategies for warfare are deftly orchestrated, the blueprint for peace seems elusive. Today's geopolitical landscape fixates on military might and government upheaval, resulting in endless turmoil and despair. Influential figures such as Gandhi, Lincoln, and Martin Luther King Jr. recognised that true peace is rooted in respect and perseverance, not degradation.

India faces a critical need to reduce fertilizer imports. The closure of the Hormuz Strait highlights this vulnerability. A move towards domestic biofertilizers and natural farming offers a solution. This transition can lower import bills, improve soil health, and reduce farmer costs. Government support and market organization are key to this vital shift.

The Gulf city's choreography of order and genuine warmth are hard to reconcile with news alerts speaking of missiles, strikes and 'strategic targets' that underline the insanity of war

Gas cylinders are a symbol of middle-class life in India. The author has moved to induction cooktops. Gas cylinders represent finite resources and subsidized dreams. They are a lingering emblem of common people. The author is done with gas cylinders. Antacids will suffice for his needs.

As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of Americas independence, we also honor the 250th anniversary of Adam Smiths groundbreaking work, 'Wealth of Nations'. Smith's insights into free markets and the mechanics of supply and demand have been instrumental in shaping the foundational ideas of American economic growth.

When one turns away from political news of the moment, drained and exhausted, one ends up watching or listening to news about one's interests: a cricket match podcast, news from the writing world, music news... Or worse still, one ends up watching news from decades ago. The other day I ended up watching reels on BBC Archives.

Artificial intelligence is changing how businesses operate globally. India's IT sector, built on skilled labor, faces margin pressure as AI boosts efficiency. Companies that own AI infrastructure, like chip makers and cloud providers, capture more value. India must adapt by reskilling its workforce and investing in its own AI capabilities to remain competitive and shape the future of intelligence.

The World Trade Organization, once the anchor of globalisation, is now facing serious challenges. Its dispute settlement system is paralysed, and negotiations are stalled. Major powers are increasingly acting unilaterally. The upcoming Ministerial Conference in Cameroon will be crucial for its future.

India is looking to Israel for agricultural advancements. Israel transformed desert land into a productive farming nation using technology. India faces similar challenges like water scarcity and low productivity. Collaboration can boost India's farm output and incomes. Centers of Excellence are already helping Indian farmers. Scaling up this partnership can make India a global food power.

India is becoming a magnet for investment, with global corporations pledging billions. Yet, a significant number of these commitments often remain unfulfilled, rarely materialising into tangible financial backing. This disconnect between lofty announcements and real-world implementation highlights a persistent challenge. Although there is an uptick in foreign direct investment, it doesn't consistently match the ambitious figures being touted.

LPG crisis: India faces a critical challenge with its heavy reliance on imported oil, gas, and minerals. This dependency poses significant economic risks. The current policy framework, focused on revenue and transparency, has not reduced imports. A new approach is needed, prioritising production and encouraging private investment in underperforming assets.

Iran war: India faces significant risks from the US-led conflict with Iran. This aggression threatens India's energy security and the global financial system. The situation could lead to an oil shock and wider conflict. India should advocate for a ceasefire and explore economic alternatives with BRICS+ nations to secure its future.

Restaurants are running out of cooking gas. This crisis reveals a deeper vulnerability in cooking fuel. Domestic ethanol production offers a viable, clean alternative. Ethanol can be used for cooking, reducing import dependence. Policy changes are needed to integrate ethanol into cooking fuel programs. This domestic solution addresses a critical national need.

India is embracing new trade deals, moving away from protectionism. This shift offers significant economic opportunities and risks. To succeed, India must focus on key export sectors and reduce costs. Strategic reforms and improved infrastructure are crucial. Firms need access to cheaper capital, reliable power, and skilled labor.

Gujaratis exhibit an exceptional entrepreneurial spirit, deeply rooted in their history and culture, contributing significantly to India's GDP and industrial output. This success stems from a normalised approach to risk and failure, optimised frugality, a powerful diaspora network, and a strong preference for ownership, all contributing to their enduring business acumen.