The Economic Times

Filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock's belief that 'film should be stronger than logic' resonates with audiences who embrace escapist cinema. While some dismiss this as artistic compromise, the author argues that emotional impact often trumps strict plausibility. Recent horror films and M. Night Shyamalan's thriller 'Trap' exemplify this, captivating viewers despite improbable premises, proving that powerful cinematic experiences can override rational objections.

The article laments the modern trend of 'feels like' over actual measurements, using temperature as a prime example. It traces the origin of 'heat index' to biometeorologist Robert G Steadman and weatherman George Winterling. This divergence between stated facts and perceived reality, the author argues, permeates various aspects of life, from economic standing to personal relationships, creating a layer of confusion and faux sophistication.

The Modi jacket and the Nehru jacket are frequently mistaken for one another, yet a closer look at their historical origins reveals crucial differences. Jawaharlal Nehru brought the band-collar waistcoat into the limelight, whereas Narendra Modi has redefined it as a powerful political symbol through constant visual exposure. This evolution raises important questions about the relationship between visibility in fashion and the attribution of creative ownership in cultural expressions.

Cape Verde's cultural heart beats in Mindelo, a city echoing the soulful 'morna' of Cesaria Evora. Her music, steeped in the islands' history of suffering and resilience, reflects a deep 'sodade' a melancholic longing born from colonial pasts and forced migrations. This spirit, intertwined with influences from Brazil and West Africa, permeates the islands' vibrant culture, from its food to its enduring diaspora.

A trust aiming to foster rags-to-riches stories faces a stark reality check. After a dismal success rate with entrepreneurs in Mirzapur, the founder grapples with a dilemma: finance a young businessman whose model relies on bribes, or insist on integrity in a system where it might lead nowhere.

In a match that redefined David and Goliath, Cabo Verde also redefined World Cup favourites, even after being bested by Argentina.

Despite perceptions of narcissism, the US has been a significant global positive force, particularly in economics and technology. Its prosperity stems from a blend of natural advantages and deliberate design, including a welcoming immigration policy that fuels innovation and economic growth. Geopolitically, US military spending underpins global security and trade routes.

Palantir CEO Alex Karp has fiercely criticized the US AI industry, particularly OpenAI and Anthropic, for their token-based pricing and 'oversold' AI capabilities. This sparks a debate between closed and open-source AI models. While closed models cite high development costs, proponents of open source argue for greater efficiency and cost savings, potentially saving the global AI economy billions.

India Inc is pouring substantial resources into enhancing employee well-being, yet one critical element is frequently overlooked: sleep. This creates an environment where burnout is equated with hard work, resulting in a mentally fatigued workforce.

Microsoft's inaugural public tax report reveals a stark disconnect between its global market presence and where profits are booked. While India boasts a massive digital market, profits largely flow to jurisdictions like Ireland, where intellectual property is held. This public disclosure, mandated by the EU, highlights the need for greater transparency in international taxation, prompting questions about profit allocation and the location of key business functions.

India's recent reforms, including GST and labor code changes, were driven by external pressures, not domestic crises. Historically, India reforms only when inaction becomes too costly. With external pressures easing, the crucial driver of reform is fading. The article argues that for future reforms, especially in land and labor, commitment must be manufactured through institutions that prevent policy reversals, citing the RBI Act and IBC as examples.

India faces a shifting global landscape, grappling with geopolitical realignments and the rise of AI as a strategic tool. The article highlights challenges in the Gulf, the need for sovereign AI development, and renewed pressure from Pakistan. New Delhi must adapt to these evolving external dynamics and assert its position on the world stage.

Mehbooba Mufti, president of the Peoples Democratic Party, is set to visit Iran to pay her respects at the funeral of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, following an invitation from his office. This invitation underscores the long-standing and strategic relationship between Iran and India. Mufti regards this as a significant honor and views it as a unique opportunity to participate in the solemn state funeral ceremonies in Tehran.

As America approaches its 250th birthday, the celebration is overshadowed by Donald Trump's pervasive presence, from proposed currency appearances to a controversial arch at Arlington Cemetery. While foreign visitors find genuine welcome and joy, the nation grapples with rising prices and a Trump 250 branding effort. Original celebration plans have been sidelined, leaving many to question what truly deserves commemoration amidst political division and personal ambition.

CDSCO still faces challenges like chronic understaffing, gaps in technical skills, weak lab infra and fragmented approvals. About a decade back, the organisation was recommended a benchmark of 1 inspector for every 50 manufacturing units. Yet, in end-2023, it carried a strength of barely 200 inspectors against a sanctioned strength of about 500 drug inspectors. Even its digitisation drive produced several overlapping portals that applicants report as glitch-ridden and difficult to comprehend.

WhatsApp's introduction of usernames, a feature long present in rivals like Telegram and Signal, has sparked debate, particularly in India. While aiming to enhance privacy by obscuring mobile numbers, especially for vulnerable users, concerns about impersonation and scamming persist. The article argues that usernames, when linked to KYC-verified numbers, don't significantly aid cyber authorities and that existing scams operate independently of this new feature.

India's textile sector, a vital economic pillar, is undergoing a transformative shift with the PM MITRA scheme. This initiative aims to overcome historical fragmentation by creating integrated textile parks, fostering a 'Farm to Foreign' value chain. The scheme is poised to boost exports, create millions of jobs, and enhance global competitiveness while ensuring social equity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated 11 years of Digital India, highlighting its transformative impact on governance, citizen empowerment, and national development. He emphasized how the initiative has fostered innovation across India, particularly in rural areas, and strengthened key sectors like education and healthcare. Digital India's success has positioned India as a global leader in digital payments and emerging technologies, paving the way for a self-reliant future.

India's banking sector is set for a major overhaul with the RBI's new acquisition finance framework, effective today. This move integrates acquisition funding into regulated banks, previously dominated by specialized lenders. While offering greater certainty and potentially lower costs for corporate growth, the framework includes safeguards like financing caps and equity contributions. This reform aims to balance expansion with financial stability, reshaping the acquisition financing market.

Indian cities face a dual threat of extreme heat and torrential monsoons, severely impacting informal workers. Traditional insurance and government aid are insufficient, leaving millions unprotected. Parametric insurance, triggered by verifiable weather data, offers a swift solution. Pioneered by SEWA and now adopted by initiatives covering construction and other workers, it provides immediate financial relief, bolstering operational resilience for businesses and safeguarding livelihoods.

India successfully navigated the Hormuz Strait closure, avoiding fuel shortages despite initial fears. This resilience wasn't due to last-minute decisions but years of strategic diversification of its oil supplier base, expanding from 27 to 41 countries. Robust infrastructure and refinery flexibility allowed for seamless redirection of supplies, proving that proactive, long-term planning is the true key to energy security, not just stockpiles.

Senior IPS officer Mahesh Dixit has assumed charge as the new Director of the Intelligence Bureau, succeeding Tapan Kumar Deka. A 1993-batch officer, Dixit brings extensive experience in counter-terrorism and handling sensitive portfolios. His appointment, cleared by the ACC, marks a new chapter for the premier internal intelligence agency, with Dixit expected to leverage his sharp acumen and established network.

Morocco's dramatic penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands marked another surprising World Cup upset. Meanwhile, Brazil, despite a shaky second half, ultimately overcame a spirited Japan. Germany's World Cup journey ended in a penalty shootout loss to Paraguay, a result that felt almost fated. The author reflects on the importance of taking shots, especially on target, in these high-stakes matches.

Boards often stifle early strategic ideas by demanding complete plans, leading to late information and limited options. Instead of challenging half-formed concepts, directors should probe underlying assumptions. A dedicated working group, an engaged chair, and an informed board are crucial for fostering open discussion. External perspectives can also enrich decision-making, ultimately leading to better outcomes and preventing boards from merely rubber-stamping finalized proposals.

The Indo-Pacific region is becoming a central energy hub as the US shifts focus from West Asian oil due to ongoing regional tensions and fluctuating prices. Countries such as India, Japan and South Korea are now turning to suppliers in the Western Hemisphere, including the US, Canada, Guyana and Venezuela. This transition is supported by new infrastructure developments that are crucial for global energy trade and are shifting geopolitical partnerships.

Prime Minister Takaichi's visit to India highlights a robust economic partnership, with Japan a key player in India's infrastructure and automotive sectors. Over 1,400 Japanese firms have invested billions, with future growth targeted in semiconductors, AI, and clean energy. The collaboration aims to leverage Japan's hardware and India's software, fostering 'Invent with India' and creating a mutually beneficial, trust-based relationship.

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has begun an indefinite fast at Jantar Mantar, citing unfulfilled promises and stalled dialogue with the Centre regarding Ladakh's constitutional safeguards. He expressed sadness at having to protest again, emphasizing his commitment to dialogue despite the risk. Wangchuk hopes his hunger strike will revive meaningful engagement and urged political parties to support the movement for future generations.

India's electoral process is the world's most transparent, with every stage audited by political parties and candidates, stated Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Currently chairing the International IDEA, India leads major democracies in its robust system. Kumar lauded booth-level officers as democracy's pillars during his Kashmir visit, extending greetings to voters and election officials across Jammu & Kashmir.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a three-day visit to Seychelles to attend its National Day golden jubilee celebrations. He will hold bilateral talks with President Patrick Herminie, aiming to strengthen the maritime neighbour's friendship and cooperation.

Jammu and Kashmir Police have registered a case against several Army personnel, including a commanding officer, for allegedly storming a police station in Kishtwar. The incident reportedly followed the seizure of a private vehicle owned by an Army official for traffic violations. The FIR details an unprovoked assault on police personnel and damage to government property, with the Army stating the matter is under examination and promising appropriate action.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized inter-departmental coordination during a Union Cabinet meeting, highlighting the successful NEET-UG re-exam as a prime example of a whole of government approach. He stressed that seamless collaboration across ministries is key to overcoming challenges, recalling similar calls for coordinated efforts during the West Asia crisis to ensure energy security and aid for citizens.

William Faulkner, a Nobel laureate, highlighted a timeless truth. Words can be deceptive, but actions demonstrate genuine intent and character. This principle applies to relationships, leadership, and friendships. In today's world, where words are amplified, Faulkner's message reminds us to observe deeds over declarations. People are remembered for what they do, not just what they say.