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Opinion / The Economic Times

'MAGA'mbo Khush Hua: The morning of Mondays inauguration ceremony shows the day of Trumps promised amrit kaal

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.

21 Jan 2025 11:32 pm
Cause and effect

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.

21 Jan 2025 11:29 pm
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.

21 Jan 2025 11:27 pm
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.

21 Jan 2025 11:20 pm
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.

21 Jan 2025 11:18 pm
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.

21 Jan 2025 11:18 pm
Is telepathy for real?

A new podcast, The Telepathy Tapes, explores the extraordinary abilities of non-speaking individuals with autism, challenging communication misconceptions. Hosted by Ky Dickens and neuroscientist Diane Hennacy Powell, it delves into telepathy tests. The Guardian's podcast Telepathy... What's the Evidence? examines the scientific exploration of mind-reading, featuring a discussion with Chris French.

21 Jan 2025 11:17 pm
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.

21 Jan 2025 11:16 pm
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.

21 Jan 2025 12:31 am
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.

21 Jan 2025 12:29 am
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.

21 Jan 2025 12:15 am
The Trunk: Kim Ryeo-Ryeong

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.

20 Jan 2025 11:58 pm
Life's credits and debits

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.

20 Jan 2025 11:56 pm
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.

20 Jan 2025 11:56 pm
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.

20 Jan 2025 11:54 pm
India-US spark stands defused?

The outgoing Biden administration's Framework for Artificial Intelligence Diffusion categorizes countries based on trust with the US, impacting India's AI industry by imposing restrictions on importing GPUs. This classification may hinder Indian AI companies' global competitiveness and complicate diplomatic relations. The policy highlights the growing intersection of technology and geopolitics.

20 Jan 2025 11:46 pm
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.

20 Jan 2025 8:00 am
Tomar Ghore: Anusheh Anadil

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.

19 Jan 2025 11:10 pm
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.

19 Jan 2025 11:06 pm
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.

19 Jan 2025 10:57 pm
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.

19 Jan 2025 10:56 pm
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.

19 Jan 2025 10:54 pm
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.

19 Jan 2025 10:51 pm
Mark of a true leader

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.

19 Jan 2025 10:49 pm
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.

18 Jan 2025 11:00 pm
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.

18 Jan 2025 11:00 pm
There's no pause on 'menopause misogyny'

The battle against ingrained misogyny continues as women's worth remains linked to their appearance and reproductive viability, especially post-menopause. Legal and societal support for menopausal women is minimal, and their critical health challenges often go unrecognized, forcing them to relentlessly fight for visibility and rights.

18 Jan 2025 11:00 pm
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.

18 Jan 2025 11:00 pm
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.

17 Jan 2025 11:59 pm
The gratitude trick: Gratitude is a clever trick marketed to avoid taking responsibility & being accountable for ones actions

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.

17 Jan 2025 11:50 pm
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.

17 Jan 2025 11:43 pm
How can I let go?

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.

17 Jan 2025 11:36 pm
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.

17 Jan 2025 11:26 pm
View: Redefine campus-company success

Each year, many of India's students face burnout and stress due to the intense pressure of campus placements. Institutions prioritize high salaries and placement percentages over meaningful career growth, leading to mismatched roles and mental health issues. Reforming the placement system to focus on job satisfaction, mental health, and alignment with personal values is essential for long-term success.

17 Jan 2025 11:20 pm
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.

17 Jan 2025 11:17 pm
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.

17 Jan 2025 11:15 pm
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.

17 Jan 2025 11:12 pm
Sitting on a field

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.

16 Jan 2025 11:54 pm
Source of life

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.

16 Jan 2025 11:34 pm
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.

16 Jan 2025 11:32 pm
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.

16 Jan 2025 11:28 pm
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.

16 Jan 2025 11:26 pm
View: How to ride the Rupee slide

India faces challenges with a declining rupee, affecting import costs and inflation. While a weaker rupee could boost manufacturing competitiveness, heavy reliance on imports, particularly oil and gold, poses difficulties. Policymakers need to enhance domestic production of natural resources and transition to renewable energy to mitigate these pressures.

16 Jan 2025 11:24 pm
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.

16 Jan 2025 11:19 pm
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.

16 Jan 2025 10:27 pm