The Economic Times

With thick smog hanging over cities, India is grappling with an air pollution emergency that has been acknowledged for years by those in power. Statistics reveal that older diesel automobiles, particularly two and three-wheelers, are major culprits contributing to public health issues.

Building an impactful board relies on thoughtful decisions. The selection of members, the core focus areas, and the way in which they interact are crucial elements. Flourishing boards thrive on a blend of diverse, autonomous individuals who unite towards a common purpose. They keep an eye on strategic aims while promoting transparent communication.

AI is rapidly advancing, transforming global business services and BPO. Many traditional BPO tasks can now be done by AI, reducing costs and time. New-age BPOs will combine AI with human expertise. Jobs will change, with new roles emerging in AI supervision and data management. Companies embracing AI will thrive, offering better outcomes and securing clients.

The US government has banned Anthropic's AI technology citing national security risks. This follows a contract dispute over ethical restrictions. Anthropic refused to remove safeguards against mass surveillance and autonomous weapons. The company is challenging the ban. OpenAI has since secured a Pentagon deal, raising questions about its own ethical commitments.

US and Israel launch 'Operation Epic Fury' against Iran. The offensive targets key sites aiming to crush the regime and end a perceived nuclear threat. Iran, facing internal fragility, chooses a war of survival. Tehran retaliates against US bases and Israel. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz impact global energy flows.

Bharat Taxi's launch highlights a missed opportunity for trade unions. Unions could organize gig workers into cooperatives, offering them essential protections like healthcare and retirement benefits. This model, inspired by successful Indian cooperatives, empowers workers and ensures fair compensation. It shifts focus from class conflict to shared ownership and management, benefiting workers in the globalized economy.

President Trump's decision to engage militarily with Iran escalates regional tensions. Strikes on Iranian targets have led to retaliatory actions and rising oil prices. Diplomacy was abandoned despite potential breakthroughs. The conflict's long-term impact remains uncertain, drawing parallels to past interventions. The situation highlights complex geopolitical dynamics and potential instability.

India confronts a critical juncture in West Asia. A widening conflict threatens its vital economic ties and the safety of millions of Indians living in Gulf states. New Delhi must navigate delicate relationships with Iran and its Arab partners. This situation demands immediate strategic decisions to protect India's interests and its expanded neighborhood.

Iran's leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has died. His passing may not significantly alter the country's political landscape. The United States and Israel have launched attacks on Iran, citing nuclear concerns. This action follows a period of diplomatic efforts that appeared close to a peace deal. The conflict has already escalated, impacting global energy supplies and regional stability.

India's economy is showing strong growth, exceeding expectations. New GDP figures reveal a shift towards employment-rich sectors like manufacturing. This revised data offers a clearer picture of economic health. While agriculture faces challenges, the overall trend is positive. Policymakers now have better information for future decisions.

American sports present a confusing spectacle. The Super Bowl, touted as a global event, features prolonged breaks for commercials and entertainment. This contrasts with sports like cricket, which, despite its length, maintains continuous play. Baseball and basketball also present their own complexities.

Tajikistan, once part of the Soviet Union, faces challenges from borders drawn by Moscow. The nation is now focused on building a modern future. President Emomali Rahmon's rule is visible everywhere. The capital, Dushanbe, is undergoing a construction boom. New monuments aim to erase Soviet influence. The country seeks to define its national identity after historical divisions.

Sam Altman's gyan to not conflate age with wisdom goes beyond career advice. Altman's right on a bigger scale. Especially here in India, we put too much premium on 'wisdom of elders'. And it can be crippling.

The heart symbol has traipsed from ancient coins and medieval art to jewels and logos, evolving across space-time - without anyone able to claim credit, hand on heart, for its design

India faces a critical challenge as its burgeoning data center sector, especially AI facilities, intensifies its already dire water scarcity. With limited freshwater and high groundwater extraction, the rapid growth of these centers threatens to deplete vital resources further. This expansion also brings toxic effluents and emissions, compounding existing groundwater contamination.

American companies and consumers can, and will, challenge tariffs in court if they are not properly authorised. Dramatic tariff announcements will now face greater legal scrutiny unless supported by Congress. Countries negotiating with the US should feel less compelled to respond with urgency or fear to such threats.

Modi's Israel outreach strengthens India's role within I2U2 and signals potential new alliances, ushering in a clear shift in regional posture. Amid a fragile regional climate, New Delhi seeks lasting benefits while balancing competing relationships on the global stage.