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The Economic Times

Opinion / The Economic Times

Saudi crown prince seeks Egypt's backing as Houthi attacks rattle Red Sea oil routes

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince met Egypt's President seeking support against Houthi rebel attacks. These attacks threaten vital shipping lanes and Saudi oil infrastructure significantly. The Houthi advances have also intensified the conflict within Yemen itself. Egypt's backing offers political influence and international rallying for Saudi Arabia. The kingdom faces difficult choices regarding military action or diplomatic solutions.

16 Sep 2026 9:24 am
AI apocalypse belief, such an uncool look

Believing in an AI apocalypse is socially awkward and makes one appear foolish. Optimism is historically favored, while pessimism about extinction faces significant social hurdles. Catastrophes often suffer from poor public relations, making warnings seem melodramatic. Fearing machines created by humans also carries an inherent embarrassment for many.

15 Sep 2026 11:51 pm
Worldly wise to pick up languages early

Language shapes our understanding of a country and its diverse regions. Learning multiple Indian languages expands a child's perspective significantly. Acquiring foreign languages further broadens their global worldview and confidence. Children should learn their mother tongue and several other languages early.

15 Sep 2026 11:42 pm
'A senior citizen among Indias young achievers': From Burnol to burn rate, how the vocabulary of business has changed

During The Economic Times 40 Under Forty awards, a seasoned jury member is struck by the dynamic energy of the young honourees. He highlights a significant generational shift in business language and a rapidly evolving landscape of innovation. As the jury carefully evaluates leadership and impact across sectors, they remain objective, often fending off appeals from old acquaintances.

15 Sep 2026 11:39 pm
The public road beckons Tata Sons

The Reserve Bank of India rejected Tata Sons' application to surrender its core investment company registration. This decision forces the holding company to comply with upper-layer NBFC rules and pursue a mandatory public listing. Tata Sons must now adhere to listing timelines previously re-emphasized by the central bank.

15 Sep 2026 11:25 pm
Great American uni dream over?

American universities have increasingly adopted a corporate mindset, emphasizing growth and financial pressures, as discussed by writers Siddhartha Deb and Pankaj Mishra in their latest podcast episode. As students take on substantial debt to access these institutions, critical questions about the essence and goals of higher education come to light. This conversation is essential for anyone still dreaming of the American University legacy.

15 Sep 2026 11:23 pm
Philosophy of solace

At its heart, all faith is driven by the imperative to alleviate human suffering, with diverse traditions offering liberation from their identified sources of misery. Philosophers like William James and J. Krishnamurti highlight this core function, emphasizing a universal uneasiness with our natural state and the subsequent deliverance from it. Ultimately, any system claiming faith must be inextricably bound to this redemptive mission, functioning as a philosophy of solace.

15 Sep 2026 11:22 pm
Agonisingly slow clinical trial is stopping Indian pharma become global innovator from supplier

India's regulatory hurdles slow down early-stage drug trials significantly. This complexity causes Indian companies to conduct crucial first-in-human studies abroad. Other nations like the US and Australia offer faster approval processes for trials. China now leads in novel medicine development due to its streamlined regulatory environment. Reforming India's system can unlock its potential in novel drug innovation.

15 Sep 2026 11:20 pm
BCCI writing foreign policy? India's Asia Cup Trophy snub raises questions

In a surprising turn of events, the Indian women's cricket team declined to accept the Asia Cup trophy following their victory. This decision was previously communicated by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). While the team's participation adhered to their commitments, the BCCI's authority in making such decisions raises questions about its competence in foreign policy matters.

15 Sep 2026 11:19 pm
Shaping the multipolar era: Foreign Minister Jaishankar outlines 6 diplomatic pillars for Indias global rise

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar identified six pivotal issues for India's diplomacy. India's growing global influence and responsibilities are increasing significantly. Diplomacy must adapt to global talent flow and rapid digital evolution. Engagement with the Global South and civilisational identity are crucial.

15 Sep 2026 10:04 pm
Saudi pipeline hit by drones to be out of service for weeks, further restricting oil flow

A Saudi oil pipeline faces weeks of repairs after an attack, impacting global petroleum supplies. Houthi rebels captured key Red Sea islands, further threatening Saudi oil exports. This disruption forces the kingdom to shift crude oil away from the Persian Gulf. The pipeline's shutdown threatens extended periods of reduced oil flow to markets. The ongoing conflict in Yemen is also escalating, causing significant displacement and casualties.

15 Sep 2026 8:09 am
'My Husband' by Maud Ventura

The author expresses her deep and persistent love for her husband. She feels the same passion as when they first met. This intense affection feels inappropriate for their long marriage and family life. She wishes for guidance on how to temper her overwhelming feelings. The author finds no literary examples for moderating such profound love.

15 Sep 2026 12:26 am
Trump the economist gets this one right

Donald Trump advocates for the world's lowest interest rates, citing America's strong credit standing. However, global central banks face rising inflation, making rate cuts unlikely. Trump's trade policies and geopolitical actions have contributed to this inflationary pressure. He may influence future rate decisions after Jerome Powell's departure from the Fed.

15 Sep 2026 12:17 am
Xi's plan, with more BRICS characteristics

Xi Jinping's five-point plan offers greater BRICS cooperation and a potential shift in focus. This initiative places technology and industrial integration at its core. Member nations should offer transparent alternatives to China's proposed AI framework. Past chairs have ensured BRICS serves as a forum for emerging economies. Developing economic ties beyond the group will broaden future options.

15 Sep 2026 12:06 am
Gokarn's Atma-Ling

Ravan received an invincible atma-ling from Shivji, which he could not ground. Deities sought Vishnu's help, who advised them to approach Ganesh. Ganesh, disguised as a boy, tricked Ravan into grounding the atma-ling at Gokarn. The sacred ling lost its power, and Ravan departed for Lanka dejected. This act by Ganesh, the obstacle remover, saved the world from Ravan's ambition.

14 Sep 2026 11:30 pm
AIs Asilomar or Hiroshima? World is running out of time to decide whether to slow AI race before technology outruns human control

Concerns over AI safety echo challenges faced during earlier technological developments, including the Manhattan Project and the Asilomar Conference. Experts have warned about potential existential risks linked to the rapid advancement of AI capabilities. As countries and companies race to develop increasingly powerful systems, establishing effective oversight has become crucial.

14 Sep 2026 11:19 pm
Semicon 2.0: Accelerating semiconductor ecosystem development for global leadership in India

India's Semicon 2.0 policy signals a move towards greater global semiconductor value chain participation. The nation must act swiftly to establish necessary infrastructure and supplier networks. Advanced packaging presents a key opportunity for India to gain market share this decade. Global collaboration is essential for building a comprehensive semiconductor ecosystem. Strategic partnerships will help India build diversified and resilient supply chains.

14 Sep 2026 11:14 pm
Tyranny of 'typing...' In an eternal limbo

The 'typing...' notification on WhatsApp induces notable psychological strain on users. This digital pause tends to fuel anxiety, prompting individuals to analyze the sender's motives. The absence of the indicator suggests a conscious choice to disengage after beginning the message. A terse reply like 'Fine' following an extended wait can be quite jarring.

14 Sep 2026 11:11 pm
BRICS realpolitik: How India-China tensions get defused, strategic leverage grows

The BRICS summits serve a crucial role in reducing tensions between India and China, while simultaneously facilitating the management of their border disputes. For Beijing, BRICS is key to projecting power globally and countering Western dominance. India leverages this platform as a strategic approach to address boundary issues, using BRICS and the SCO for leverage and agility in an ever-evolving geopolitical landscape, thus engaging economically without becoming politically entrenched.

14 Sep 2026 11:08 pm
The BRIC-a-brac khana Xi missed

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed missed a significant BRICS dinner event. Their absence became a notable point during the multilateral gathering in India. The elaborate meal featured diverse Indian dishes symbolizing international cooperation and diplomacy. Attendees enjoyed a culinary experience intended to represent global unity and shared goals. The event's menu itself offered a rich tapestry of flavors and cultural influences.

13 Sep 2026 11:45 pm
Velouria by The Pixies

The Pixies' song 'Velouria' from their Bossanova album is a tender love song. Its guitars surge and glitter, and Kim Deal's bass provides a pulse. A theremin suggests gravity has been suspended, adding to its glorious strangeness. Black Francis sings as if astonished by finding someone miraculous and potentially staying. The song combines rock force with delicate half-remembered summer feelings.

13 Sep 2026 11:45 pm
BRICS 2026: A declaration, no roadmap

India displayed diplomatic strength by forging consensus for the New Delhi Declaration. Member nations hold differing perspectives on BRICS's future direction and goals. China's influence is evident as it prepares for its upcoming chairmanship of the grouping. The declaration reiterates support for UNSC reform without setting a clear timeline. BRICS members aim to shape global rules rather than merely follow them.

13 Sep 2026 11:43 pm
India-China thaw: Engagement returns, but strategic trust stays elusive

Xi Jinping's India visit marked managed competition, not reconciliation. Both nations seek mechanisms to control rivalry and avoid escalation. India emphasizes mutual respect and boundary settlement, while China seeks stability. Diplomatic and economic ties offer cautious optimism for future engagement. Sustained peace and political dialogue are key for durable relations.

13 Sep 2026 11:41 pm
New Delhi scripts a post-US worldview

The New Delhi Declaration signifies a transformative shift in global dynamics, asserting a multipolar world that transcends Western dominance. BRICS stands against unilateral sanctions, branding them as coercive actions that undermine legitimacy. This unified stance underscores the importance of sovereignty and dialogue while highlighting a move towards strategic autonomy. India's advocacy for UNSC reform further supports this newly conceived worldview, as BRICS actively engages with the shiftin

13 Sep 2026 11:24 pm
Tighter US Visa isn't all that bad for India

Stricter visa regulations in foreign nations will intensify competition for India's skilled workforce. Additionally, numerous students are burdened with unmanageable debt due to the high costs of studying abroad. The imposition of job entry barriers in Western countries is hindering immigrant students, prompting universities to consider establishing more campuses overseas. As a result, India may see a reverse brain drain supported by the rise of global competency centers.

13 Sep 2026 11:20 pm
Destroy old files totally

Bureaucracy creates unnecessary work by copying and destroying files, mirroring how people accumulate useless memories. Emptying one's inner being leads to greater spaciousness and heightened consciousness. This allows for efficient responses to situations instead of mere reactions. An empty mind perceives reality directly and responds appropriately without regret. Such individuals move forward unburdened by past experiences and failures.

13 Sep 2026 11:02 pm
A weekend in New Delhi: At BRICS, Modi and India provided an adroit demonstration of tactically gathering a motley crew

The recent BRICS summit hosted twenty nations, fostering debate and wide interpretation of its joint statement. This gathering served as a protest forum against global economic instability and institutional failures. India's diplomacy showcased its appeal as a stable pillar amidst geopolitical challenges. The summit highlighted crucial supply chains and commodity linkages within BRICS family countries. India's engagement demonstrates the need for intricate networks and tactical arrangements in g

13 Sep 2026 10:58 pm
Modi era shifted India from corruption, casteism, dynastic politics to politics of performance: Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated India has entered a new era of performance politics. He said corruption, casteism, and dynastic politics have ended since 2014. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has freed the country from policy paralysis and poor decision-making. A campaign called 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' will promote public participation for a developed India. This initiative marks Modi's birthday and significant years of his governance.

13 Sep 2026 5:28 pm
Beyond bloc politics: Indias BRICS bet on multipolarity

Under India's BRICS chairmanship, the importance of practical cooperation is underscored with an aim to launch impactful development initiatives. Enhancing citizens' lives through tailored health programs and technology is paramount. The chairmanship also prioritizes the nurturing of startup ecosystems and the support of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), while dedicating significant efforts to climate finance and vital infrastructure projects.

12 Sep 2026 10:55 pm
One slip-up and SpikeJet takes your trip: Buying air tickets online can be an exercise closer to quantum mechanics

A man faced significant issues while booking air tickets online for a future date. He encountered fluctuating prices and website glitches during his booking process. After booking, he discovered the flight was for the next morning, not his intended date. Attempts to change the date or cancel resulted in substantial financial losses and further confusion. The experience highlights problems with digital booking platforms and airline pricing strategies.

12 Sep 2026 10:39 pm
Working class rice just got nice, now that it's hit the supper club circuit

Pantha bhaat, a fermented rice dish, is gaining popularity in London. This once-humble food was historically eaten by laborers in India. Different regions across India have their own versions of this soaked rice dish. Fermentation unlocks nutrients in the rice, offering health benefits. The dish's resurgence highlights a shift away from culinary snobbery.

12 Sep 2026 10:24 pm
Border peace essential for India-China ties: PM Modi to President Xi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday reaffirmed the need for a strategic, long-term perspective in India-China ties, with Modi stressing that peace and tranquillity along the frontier remain essential. The leaders also discussed border agreements, trade imbalances, supply chains, market access and a fair resolution of the boundary question.

12 Sep 2026 10:17 pm
Tagore, the AI economy and the people left behind

San Francisco's tech boom highlights stark societal inequalities and wealth creation's dual nature. A public mural contrasts Lady Liberty's ideals with automated machines and exclusion. An Indian tourist and a friend debate national progress versus societal well-being and individual worth. The tourist champions national strength and economic growth above all else. Tech professionals discuss valuing human lives over algorithmic efficiency in simulations.

12 Sep 2026 10:13 pm
Chinese President calls on BRICS countries to play 'due role' in bringing peace in West Asia

Chinese President Xi Jinping hailed BRICS as an influential cooperation platform. He urged the grouping to play a role in West Asian peace. Xi also called for strengthened cooperation in AI and global governance. BRICS countries should lead in innovative development and maintaining stability. The bloc aims to steer the international order toward greater justice and equity.

12 Sep 2026 6:47 pm
Show of unity: Modi, Putin, Xi hand-in-hand at 18th BRICS Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a notable moment with leaders at the BRICS Summit. He was pictured holding hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Other leaders including Iran's President and South Africa's President also joined them. Modi engaged in discussions with leaders from Russia, China, and Indonesia. India hosted the BRICS Summit for member and partner countries.

12 Sep 2026 5:59 pm
The epistemology of power: Why BRICS must build a common scientific architecture

For nations striving for geopolitical balance, achieving scientific and technological independence is crucial. The BRICS alliance, with its substantial population and economic resources, is focused on developing joint scientific initiatives and promoting collaborative innovations. By pooling their strengths, they intend to amplify their influence on future technological advancements and frameworks, thus enhancing their role in global tech governance.

12 Sep 2026 2:10 pm
Playing it SAF and fair for our athletes

India's decision to participate in the 2027 SAF Games in Pakistan is a positive step. This move aligns with India's ambition to become a global sporting power. International competitions are crucial for athlete development and identifying areas for improvement. The policy recognizes the importance of these events for athlete growth.

12 Sep 2026 12:54 am
Flips may no longer be a flop like before

Apple has introduced its iPhone Duo flip smartphone, entering a market pioneered by Samsung. This new design offers folding screens, addressing previous smartphone screen size limitations. However, these folding phones remain significantly more expensive than standard models. Precise manufacturing and advanced engineering contribute to their higher cost and luxury status. The iPhone Duo's success hinges on its ability to transform consumer behavior and strengthen Apple's ecosystem.

12 Sep 2026 12:52 am
India a vital strategic partner, says Egypt president; calls for stronger trade via Suez Canal

Egypt's President congratulates India on its BRICS presidency and highlights mutual cooperation. The nation's strategic location offers significant trade and logistics advantages for Indian companies. Egypt seeks to boost local manufacturing and technology transfer with India. BRICS membership provides broader avenues for developmental and economic cooperation. Egypt advocates for strategic balance and peaceful conflict resolution in West Asia.

12 Sep 2026 12:22 am
Adversity, The Deliverer

A story from Hanuman Ansh illustrates a timeless lesson: adversity demands action, not surrender. Drawing on the Aitareya Brahmanas Charaiveti, charaiveti and Krishnas counsel to Arjun, the passage argues that life is sustained by purposeful action and that waiting passively for circumstances to change can deepen despair.

11 Sep 2026 11:51 pm
Indias food safety rules are giving restaurants heartburn: Its the process, not just the product

Indias food safety regime has shifted from testing adulteration in the final product to policing the processes that prevent it. Restaurants are struggling with this change because food can be safe even when preparation practices violate prescribed standards. The larger challenge is building a process-first culture through regulation, skills and incentives.

11 Sep 2026 11:48 pm
Microphone summit

International summits often highlight communication breakdowns and cultural differences. At a climate summit, technical issues overshadowed serious discussions on global issues. Leaders at an infrastructure summit debated traffic norms and cultural expressions. The Indian delegate showcased chaotic traffic as a unique cultural phenomenon. These events suggest that summitry often prioritizes perception over tangible progress.

11 Sep 2026 11:35 pm
AI cracked the proof no human understands. Now what's a human? Navier-Stokes solve forces the question

An OpenAI system solved the Navier-Stokes problem, a Millennium Prize question. This AI achievement occurred after human mathematicians made significant progress on the same challenge. The resulting mathematical proof is correct but incomprehensible to humans who prompted it. This separation of answers from understanding redefines human roles in discovery. Future advancements will prioritize asking valuable questions over finding answers.

11 Sep 2026 11:33 pm
Qualitatively 'happy hours': Indias liquor problem is not what you think

India's food regulator has targeted popular alcohol brands for using neutral spirit and misleading ageing claims. Many Indian liquors are artificially flavored neutral spirits, not aged spirits as advertised. High import duties restrict access to better quality foreign spirits for consumers. Government policies and corruption also limit choices for budget-conscious drinkers. This situation prevents Indians from easily accessing superior quality alcoholic beverages.

11 Sep 2026 11:31 pm
iPhone Duo bends, brand banter soars

Apple's iPhone Duo launch sparked immediate brand responses and witty marketing. Samsung and Duolingo quickly joined the digital marketing fray. This signals a new era of instantaneous, meme-driven brand interactions. Brands are now prioritizing wit and cultural relevance over hardware specifications. The future of product launches will likely focus more on humorous sparring.

11 Sep 2026 11:22 pm
Ahead of Modi-Xi meeting, Beijing says India and China should handle differences properly

President Xi Jinping will visit India for the BRICS summit and bilateral talks. China urges handling differences and viewing ties from a strategic perspective. This meeting follows previous engagements between the two leaders. The BRICS summit is a key platform for emerging market cooperation. Xi's visit aims to stabilize bilateral ties amid global volatility.

11 Sep 2026 6:00 pm
List of world leaders attending the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi

India will host Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin and other BRICS leaders in New Delhi on September 12-13 for the groupings 18th summit. The gathering brings together leaders representing economies that account for about 40% of global GDP, with several bilateral meetings with PM Narendra Modi also planned.

11 Sep 2026 3:25 pm
Not a bloc, not anti-West: What India's BRICS hosting really signals

India hosts the expanded BRICS summit, showcasing its significant global role. The group's growth reflects the non-western world's desire for diversity and pluralism. BRICS cooperation now encompasses political, economic, and developmental issues across continents. India's leadership highlights its convening power and acceptability across ideological divides. This summit offers opportunities for crucial dialogues and managing global power dynamics.

11 Sep 2026 12:33 am
Driving on empty roads

Driving on empty, uncongested roads offers a unique sense of peace. The car and driver experience a harmonious connection with the smooth asphalt. Buildings and foliage create a moving visual spectacle for the occupants. This experience allows for reclaiming lost time and rediscovering modern travel. Such journeys provide a feeling of being a true traveler on a dedicated path.

11 Sep 2026 12:03 am
Summit season's real menace? Creative acronym expansion

International summits often feature numerous acronyms that are frequently reinterpreted creatively. This trend of wordplay is seen as a distraction from serious diplomatic matters. The author suggests a deterrent, an 'Acronym Abuse Jar', for such linguistic diversions. Proceeds from this jar could fund essential services like translation for officials. The article advocates for maintaining the original, sober meaning of these important institutional initials.

11 Sep 2026 12:01 am