The Economic Times

US policies are impacting foreign-trained doctors. Claims of widespread H-1B visa fraud are not fully supported by government data. Recent actions have frozen work authorisations and visa processing for nationals of many countries. This is creating physician shortages in rural areas. Millions of Americans rely on these doctors for care. The situation risks patient well-being.

A recent party at Gwalior's Jai Vilas Palace offered a glimpse of genuine connection, a stark contrast to years of superficial gatherings. The author recalls parties hosted by Parmeshwar Godrej, Raj Salgaocar, and Roohi Jaikishan, where guests connected through shared interests and the host's charisma.

Climate change disproportionately impacts women, who are often excluded from decision-making despite their crucial roles in crisis response. Addressing this gendered issue requires empowering women with access to resources, finance, and leadership opportunities. India's initiatives, like training Climate Champions and implementing heat insurance, demonstrate a path towards equitable climate resilience.

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor criticized the government's move to link women's reservation with delimitation, calling it political demonetisation. He argued that this approach holds women's aspirations hostage to a complex administrative exercise. Tharoor asserted that women's reservation is ready for immediate implementation based on existing parliamentary strength, warning that delimitation could damage federalism.

Global markets are reacting to the expectation of disruption. Countries that prepare for crises in calm times fare better. China and Russia show how foresight builds resilience. India must embed anticipation into policy. This crisis is a warning for a volatile world. Strategic resilience is cultivated before shocks arrive. The test of statecraft is the discipline to be less surprised.

Indian venture capitalists hold billions, but the traditional funding model faces disruption. Founders now build and scale businesses with less capital due to AI and lower costs. This shift reduces founder dependence on venture capital. The industry's future hinges on its ability to adapt to this evolving landscape.

India has called the targeting of commercial shipping in the West Asia conflict deplorable and urged the immediate restoration of safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, citing concerns over energy security and global trade.

A 10-day truce has begun in Lebanon, pausing fighting between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah and raising hopes of extending a wider ceasefire involving the United States and Iran after weeks of war that disrupted the region.

Migrant workers are again facing hardship. Protests erupt over low wages and poor conditions. Government policies lag behind rising costs. Welfare programs show limited impact. Housing schemes struggle with implementation. New labor codes bring uncertainty. Rural distress looms. The migrant worker remains in a difficult situation.

India and China face a new opportunity in energy markets. Past cooperation in Africa, despite challenges, shows potential. Both nations seek stable energy imports, bypassing geopolitical risks. This shared need can drive future joint ventures. New energy projects in Africa could form a strong foundation for collaboration. This pragmatic approach is vital for securing energy supplies.

India's journey towards a modernized defense sector is fraught with obstacles. While military budgets are on the rise, the country's over-dependence on foreign equipment stifles local innovation and fosters economic vulnerabilities. Additionally, outdated strategic frameworks impede progress. To enhance its martial readiness and combat efficiency, India must embrace unconventional strategies and ramp up internal manufacturing initiatives.

Jay Shah, ICC Chairman, has been recognized by the World Economic Forum as a Young Global Leader for 2026. This honor highlights his significant contributions to international cricket. Shah's work includes expanding the sport's reach and securing its inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. His selection underscores India's growing influence on global platforms and propels cricket's development forward.

During recent global crude price volatility linked to West Asia tensions, retail fuel prices in India remained largely unchanged, unlike in other countries or even private retailers, raising questions about the credibility of market-linked pricing.

Female gig workers face challenges like limited mobility and financial access. Initiatives providing affordable asset finance and tailored savings products are crucial. These interventions empower women, increasing their income and job opportunities. Scaling these solutions can unlock the full potential of India's female gig workforce, fostering economic security and inclusivity for a brighter future.

Fifteen years after its finalization, the Basel 3 accord's goal of uniform global banking rules has fragmented. National regulators are now selectively implementing the framework, prioritizing local economic and political considerations over strict adherence, leading to divergent capital requirements and a less comparable international banking system.

President Trump faces a critical challenge as the United States appears to be losing its conflict with Iran. This situation threatens his presidency and historical standing. Recent diplomatic efforts have failed, and a naval blockade has been imposed. The consequences could be severe, impacting global economics and Trump's political future. He may seek new negotiations to avert further crisis.

Escalating tensions in West Asia highlight Indias vulnerability to energy and logistics disruptions. Even without supply cuts, higher freight and insurance costs can strain margins and widen deficits. Strong balance sheets offer a cushion, but prolonged volatility could test corporate earnings, capital expenditure plans, and the broader credit cycle.

The West Asian war is set to accelerate America's decline and China's ascent. Europe may look up to the US no more. Nations will prioritise energy security, moving away from fossil fuels. The dollar's dominance is likely to weaken. A new blockchain-based currency, 'Bancor', could emerge, offering an alternative to dollar hegemony. China will bolster its electric technology leadership. India stands to benefit from escaping dollar sanctions.

Recognising that not all workers can transition to automated roles and creating alternative pathways for decent work to prevent polarisation of labour. Robots are marching into factories. What matters now is how firms and workers adapt. And how policy supports that transition.

More than 300 people were arrested and seven FIRs filed after a workers protest turned violent in Noida, police said. Commissioner Laxmi Singh stated that authorities acted quickly to disperse crowds, identified instigators, and are probing an organised network behind the unrest, with further arrests and investigations underway.

Recent attacks on cloud data centers in West Asia highlight a new geopolitical risk. Hyperscale providers are now reassessing their global infrastructure. India offers a secure and stable environment for data center expansion. Its robust policies and existing ties with the Gulf region make it a natural strategic partner.

America threatens a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. This marks a move from diplomacy to economic warfare. The US aims to cut Iran's oil revenue. This strategy seeks to force Iran back to negotiations. However, it carries significant risks of escalation. Global energy markets and international relations face potential instability.

Crude oil prices have surged past the $100 mark per barrel, leading to a dramatic rise in the cost of packaging materials and creating uncertainty in supply chains. Businesses are now prioritizing ensuring availability over minimizing expenses, leading many to stockpile inventory to safeguard against disruptions.

Fifteen hours of talks in Islamabad between Iran and the US did not resolve the ongoing conflict. Divergent objectives and Israeli interference made meaningful resolution unlikely. A fragile ceasefire is in place, but its endurance is uncertain. The negotiations focused on Iran's nuclear program and its ballistic missile capabilities. Both sides have non-negotiable points, creating a challenging path forward.

Asha Bhosle's voice was a constant presence in Indian music. Her professional brilliance was evident even in early recordings. She remained dedicated to her craft throughout her career. Her personal interactions revealed humility and a strong will. Asha's music brought joy and affection to listeners.

India is set to implement the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, a law reserving seats for women in Parliament and state assemblies. This move aims to bridge the gap between women's high voter turnout and their low representation. The government is exploring ways to expedite implementation, potentially aligning it with the 2029 elections.