The Economic Times

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.

A debate over imposing Hindi in government schools is reigniting fears of 'Hindi imperialism'. Southern states, Maharashtra, and West Bengal are particularly concerned. The move aims to standardize national thought and culture. The author advocates for including all 27 scheduled languages in curricula, emphasizing choice over coercion in education.

The Diplomat uses a crude depiction of the British PM's sex life to portray him as an untrustworthy figure, contrasting with the dignified portrayal of the US president. This tactic, similar to The Crown's portrayal of British royals, serves as political propaganda, projecting Western nations as stable leaders and influencing viewer perception through subtle manipulation of intimate scenes.

A cricketer lecturing on mushrooms, a footballer feted and paraded around by VIPs, CEOs doing motivational YouTube videos - whatever happened to folks sticking to their fields of expertise?

A visually arresting, fiercely polarising action thriller, Dhurandhar transcends propaganda debates through raw performances, brutal choreography, and an uncanny portrayal of familiar worlds rendered disturbingly strange.