The Economic Times
Elections 2026Opinion / The Economic Times
India is looking to boost foreign investment by reforming its tax system. Recent proposals aim to simplify taxes on foreign holdings. The country faces challenges with its current tax structure, which is seen as complex and frequently changing. Reforms are needed to make India competitive and predictable for global investors. This will help attract more capital and support economic growth.
A recent Delhi High Court ruling grants acquitted individuals a 'right to be forgotten'. Their names will be removed from online search results and public databases. This decision raises concerns about the balance between privacy and free speech. The court's interpretation of privacy rights and its potential impact on journalism and access to public information are highlighted.
The Indian rupee is dipping to historic lows, approaching the 100-dollar threshold. Driven by market sentiment and a perilous cycle of foreign debt for Indian businesses, its imperative for corporate leaders to take immediate action. Protecting cash flow, strategising on foreign debt management and implementing stringent cost control are vital now more than ever.
Marco Rubio's visit aimed to mend US-India ties, emphasizing strategic importance amid political challenges. While progress was noted in areas like underwater domain awareness, key agreements remain elusive. The focus is now on securing critical minerals and building trusted networks to counter China's influence.
India faces economic headwinds from global events and domestic investor wariness. The traditional reform model is no longer sufficient. Strategic sectors like energy and green tech need state intervention. This involves public investment and risk absorption. New models can emerge, moving beyond past PSU issues. Intelligent state intervention is key for industrialization and competition.
Tokenisation represents financial assets as digital tokens on programmable blockchains, simplifying ownership and settlement. India's financial market, with high yields and advanced digital infrastructure, is poised to leverage this for global capital access via GIFT City, mirroring past successes in market expansion.
Foreign companies are exiting India for various reasons, from business failures to global strategy shifts. India aims to build national champions, a move that may deter foreign investors seeking predictability and fair play. While some Indian firms show global competitiveness, others risk inefficiency. The nation navigates a complex path, seeking foreign capital and domestic growth simultaneously.
The 14th WTO ministerial conference highlighted a divide between multilateralism and plurilateralism. India advocates for multilateralism but faces a changing global trade landscape. The article suggests India should strategically engage with plurilateral agreements. This engagement should focus on MFN-based, open plurilaterals housed within the WTO. Such an approach allows India to shape rules and defend the multilateral trading system.
Commuting in Indian urban centers is riddled with obstacles, where inadequate sidewalks and hazardous road conditions push people towards cars, resulting in a rise in lifestyle-related health problems. Interestingly, a large number of city trips could easily be made by foot or bike, yet the lack of safe pathways keeps many from making that choice.
The West Asia crisis presents India a chance to regain global influence. Discussions are underway to secure trade routes beyond the Strait of Hormuz. India is focusing on the Indo-Pacific, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), and the Quad. These efforts aim to create alternate supply chains and ensure free navigation. India is also exploring new economic ties with Iran.
As India navigates its AI and innovation trajectory, skepticism looms large. While AI technologies have fueled market growth worldwide, the leadership landscape is evolving. At present, the semiconductor and hardware arenas are thriving, eagerly responding to the financial backing from AI mega-corporations.
India's manufacturing sector faces a critical juncture. Global buyers demand zero defects and reliability, moving beyond India's traditional jugaad approach. To gain trust in global supply chains, India must prioritize precision, consistency, and design excellence. This shift requires collaboration between large enterprises and MSMEs, fostering a national mission for quality. Embracing structured improvement will elevate the 'Made in India' brand.
Asia is experiencing an industrial boom. India can benefit by increasing manufacturing and attracting investment. This will create jobs and boost economic growth. The nation faces challenges in securing funding. Policy reforms are needed to improve competitiveness and attract foreign capital. This will ensure job creation for India's growing workforce.
India's economy faces a perfect storm. The rupee is at historic lows, subsidies are soaring, and fiscal deficit risks are rising. Capital outflows are accelerating, and prices are climbing. The Monetary Policy Committee meets this week. Many expect rates to stay unchanged. However, rising inflation pressures may force a rate hike.
India's monetary policy committee faces a complex decision. Delayed economic growth data and an unknown US Federal Reserve policy create significant challenges. Inflation is rising while growth slows. The committee must navigate these uncertainties to set interest rates. The government is already taking steps to manage the economy. The committee's decision will impact the country's financial future.
To learn to cheat in India - in exams or real estate, by overcharging in hospitals or fleecing foreign tourists - is to learn how to survive, because if you don't, society will treat you as an imbecile who never grew up.
Artificial intelligence adoption threatens widespread job losses, wihch could devalue human work and necessitate government income support. India, aiming to be an AI hub, faces risks as its industrial workforce may be hobbled. There are threats of potential economic downturns if AI development falters, with millions facing unemployment.
Beware the cute-pathetic displays of losing party workers making desperate attempts to join the winning side
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced plans to expand the Border Security Force's (BSF) role, under which a new 'territorial security' concept will be introduced to enhance border protection. Work on securing vulnerable areas along the Pakistan border is nearing completion. The government is investing significantly in advanced technology and infrastructure to fortify India's borders.

35 C