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Opinion / The Economic Times

Schloss Schauenstein

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.

20 Nov 2024 11:32 pm
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.

20 Nov 2024 11:29 pm
Arjun's decision

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.

20 Nov 2024 11:28 pm
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.

20 Nov 2024 11:22 pm
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'.

20 Nov 2024 11:12 pm
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.

20 Nov 2024 11:05 pm
Make microlending reg activity-based

Microfinance lending is experiencing stress due to regulatory changes aimed at curbing over-lending. Relaxed rules in 2022 fueled a surge in unsecured credit, leading to new restrictions on loan numbers and borrowers. While this has caused a credit squeeze and increased delinquency, it's expected that government spending and economic recovery will eventually stabilize the sector.

20 Nov 2024 11:02 pm
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.

20 Nov 2024 11:00 pm
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.

20 Nov 2024 9:26 pm
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.

19 Nov 2024 11:10 pm
Go behind the screen

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.

19 Nov 2024 11:05 pm
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.

19 Nov 2024 11:03 pm
Ocean of love

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.

19 Nov 2024 10:59 pm
Creating jobs in manufacturing in the US and India is a study in contrast

Donald Trump and Narendra Modi are focusing on manufacturing to boost their economies. However, historical trends suggest that this approach is likely to fail in developed countries like the US. While India has potential in this sector, its progress is hindered by rigid labor laws and excessive holidays, making its workforce less competitive.

19 Nov 2024 10:56 pm
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.

19 Nov 2024 10:55 pm
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.

19 Nov 2024 10:53 pm
The doom of the great city

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.

18 Nov 2024 11:54 pm
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.

18 Nov 2024 11:34 pm
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.

18 Nov 2024 11:31 pm
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.

18 Nov 2024 11:28 pm
Emotional obesity

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.

18 Nov 2024 11:17 pm
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.

18 Nov 2024 11:12 pm
Elon Musk: The X-factor in India-US relations

Elon Musk's surprising appointment to Donald Trump's cabinet has sent shockwaves through Washington. As 'First-Buddy' and co-head of the proposed DOGE initiative, Musk's influence is expected to extend beyond domestic policy, potentially impacting US foreign relations, particularly with India, where his companies have significant interests.

18 Nov 2024 11:09 pm
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.

18 Nov 2024 11:06 pm
You will wonder

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.

17 Nov 2024 11:14 pm
Mack the Knife by Bobby Darin

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.

17 Nov 2024 11:04 pm
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.

17 Nov 2024 10:57 pm
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.

17 Nov 2024 10:57 pm
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.

17 Nov 2024 10:56 pm
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.

17 Nov 2024 10:54 pm
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.

17 Nov 2024 10:52 pm
It can be great to deceive through appearances

Making poor people look well-off can dismantle class barriers better than Tom Piketty

16 Nov 2024 11:45 pm
Epic bus rides with shades and mixed-up bags

An 80-km Bhiwadi-Old Delhi daily commute can teach you many life lessons

16 Nov 2024 11:32 pm
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.

16 Nov 2024 11:25 pm
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.

16 Nov 2024 11:08 pm
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)

16 Nov 2024 11:02 pm
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.

16 Nov 2024 12:07 am
Unite to fight noxious November

Or else the only option would be a new capital region to give this one some time to rejuvenate

15 Nov 2024 11:58 pm
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.

15 Nov 2024 11:55 pm
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.

15 Nov 2024 11:54 pm
Know yourself

Life is a journey of self-discovery, urging us to understand our complexities and responses to life's beauty and tragedies. Through introspection, we confront our choices, seeking to live in alignment with our conscience and accept responsibility for our actions. This examination leads to self-awareness and paves the way for a brighter future.

15 Nov 2024 11:37 pm
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.

15 Nov 2024 11:33 pm
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.

15 Nov 2024 10:51 pm
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.

15 Nov 2024 10:49 pm
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.

15 Nov 2024 10:46 pm
Watch that space

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.

15 Nov 2024 10:46 pm