The Economic Times

Traditional Indian foods are making a comeback as modern diets face scrutiny. Calls for healthier eating are prompting a fresh look at ingredients. Moderation and mindfulness are key to navigating these changes. Revisiting ancestral wisdom offers valuable lessons for contemporary lifestyles.

The H-1B visa program is changing significantly. New rules are making it harder and more expensive for Indian professionals to work in the US. This creates uncertainty for individuals and American companies. The program is shifting from a skills bridge to a system influenced by politics and price. These changes could impact the US talent pool and innovation.

India is paving the way for a modern coal spot market, with new regulations enabling trading on digital platforms. The key to this initiative's triumph lies in establishing trust in pricing and settlement processes. Current market fragmentation could undermine price clarity, making the need for standardized contracts, transparent trading frameworks, and robust regulations more vital than ever.

India's rupee weakened in 2025 but remains costly for many businesses. Forex policy should focus on currency competitiveness to aid economic needs. A mildly undervalued rupee over the medium term is recommended. This approach supports goods exporters facing global challenges and US tariffs.

The United States under Donald Trump is challenging the global rules established after World War 2. Actions in Venezuela and discussions about Greenland suggest a move away from respecting national borders. This shift impacts international law and territorial sovereignty. India has an opportunity to shape a new international system by focusing on strategic autonomy and building influence in emerging regions.

India has successfully channeled household savings into financial markets, leading to domestic investors now owning more of listed companies than foreign institutions. This abundant liquidity, however, is nudging companies towards predictable, short-term performance over long-gestation innovation, as evidenced by low R&D spending relative to GDP and a limited private sector role in innovation risk.

The U.S. retreat from international engagements disrupts existing frameworks, leading to increased complexity in global cooperation on critical challenges, especially environmental ones. In this shifting landscape, India has a golden opportunity to evolve into a proactive player, crafting rules that not only enhance climate strategies but also ensure that global governance aligns with the contemporary developmental landscape.

India takes over BRICS leadership in 2026. The group faces global shifts and differing views. BRICS+ has expanded, increasing its economic influence. India's presidency aims to boost BRICS' economic plans and connect with G7 and G20. The group will focus on trade in local currencies and new financial systems. BRICS seeks to reform global governance and foster collaboration.

Gig economy platforms like Zomato, driven by algorithms, are increasingly shaping worker behavior and earnings through opaque adjustments. This mirrors past issues with ride-sharing services, where initial incentives were replaced by cost-cutting measures, leaving drivers with volatile incomes and debt. The current situation highlights a lack of worker protections and the need for algorithmic accountability.

India is updating its Consumer Price Index base year. A key reform involves the housing index. Experts question proposed changes to how housing costs are measured. They argue the current method is scientifically sound. Significant changes could impact inflation data used for monetary policy. The debate centers on accuracy and cost-effectiveness.

The US capture of Nicolas Maduro offers lessons for nations. China's air defense systems faced exposure. US intelligence capabilities are a concern. This event could destabilize regions and threaten world peace. China may rethink its influence strategy. Countries might become less inhibited about expansionist policies. The world faces increased insecurity.

India faces a 'Brave New World' dictated by US policy, with options to either align or chart its own course. The article argues for India to champion a rules-based global order minus US participation, strengthening its economy and democracy to achieve strategic autonomy and earn global respect.

Politics and sport are deeply intertwined in India. Recent BCCI actions concerning a Bangladeshi player have led to diplomatic tensions. Bangladesh Cricket Board requested World Cup matches be moved. The Bangladesh government banned IPL broadcasts. This highlights how politics influences sports in the region. The situation underscores the complex relationship between national interests and sporting events.

India's gig economy is rapidly growing with millions of workers. Many lack basic protections like social security and insurance. Earnings are unpredictable, and deactivation can happen without reason. This situation demands regulatory intervention to ensure fair treatment and prevent exploitation. The focus is on providing essential safeguards for these workers.

As Nirmala Sitharaman prepares her 9th budget, India faces a 'Goldilocks' economy with strong GDP growth but persistent poverty. She must balance electoral politics with fiscal prudence, especially with potential state revenue increases and the need for job creation through infrastructure investment. Sitharaman's challenge is to foster inclusive growth and navigate global trade uncertainties.

As the United States expands its footprint internationally, the acquisition of Venezuela's rich oil reserves marks a pivotal moment in South America. This sudden strategy pivot poses significant implications for China's position in the global market, while it offers India both an opportunity and a challenge.

China's military drills around Taiwan are escalating. Recent exercises like Justice Mission demonstrate rapid mobilization and a potential blockade strategy. This new approach aims to isolate the island and deter external interference. Future drills may focus on duration and cyber warfare. Governments must address China's growing assertiveness regarding Taiwan.

Despite the cheer in Washington and celebrations amongst the Venezuelan diaspora, Venezuela's future remains uncertain. Maduro may be out, but Venezuela's woes are far from over. For a country that has seen the largest migration outside of wartime, with 20% of the population leaving the country, the humanitarian and socio-political crisis continues without an end in sight.