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$1 lakh H-1B fee isn't protection, but a regulatory sledgehammer that will hurt Americans
A proposed $1 lakh H-1B entry fee, intended to protect American jobs, is instead increasing costs for employers and weakening US competitiveness in tech and healthcare. Data show a decline in unemployment for skilled workers, contradicting the rationale for the fee. This policy risks driving jobs and talent abroad, harming innovation and ordinary Americans.
Quad up for rare earths treasure hunt: Why India should be raring to take the lead
Since the Chinese choke on rare earth exports, billions are getting poured into alternative supply sources, technology and deals involving companies as diverse as Apple, Amazon, Daido Steel to ABB and Honda. Indian companies and policy makers need to desperately catch up. The PLI policy is still not ready seven months after the Beijing crackdown
India's Web3 ecosystem rises: From top crypto adoption to real-world blockchain use
India has emerged as the frontrunner in global cryptocurrency adoption for the third consecutive year. This marks a transformative chapter in Web3 development, emphasizing the deployment of functional blockchain technologies.
India has introduced four new labor codes to simplify compliance and modernize its labor laws. These reforms aim to align the country's labor ecosystem with global standards and the needs of a modern economy. The changes include single registrations and licenses, and a consolidated return filing system. Fixed-term employment and flexibility in working hours are also introduced.
India needs a new accounting system beyond GDP capturing AI's impact to ensure fair growth
India's AI revolution is outpacing its traditional economic metrics, which fail to capture the impact of digital services and informal sector shifts. To truly understand and guide its AI future, the nation must develop new accounting methods that value intangible assets like digital literacy, human capital, and environmental sustainability alongside output.
Next time you're in Dubai, skip the malls, hit the seafront, and seafood
From fresh oysters at Souk Al Bahar in Dubai to vibrant displays at Deira Waterfront Market, the city's honest palate reflects global bounty. This journey celebrates the simple, sun-kissed flavors of the sea over opulent dining.
Enough of that 'Jai Macaulay,Kalkattawali!'
The article reflects on Prime Minister Narendra Modis call to shed the mindset of slavery linked to Thomas Macaulays influence on India. The writer notes the irony of invoking a 19th-century colonial figure unfamiliar to most young Indians but agrees with the broader point about overcoming a long-standing sense of cultural inferiority.
Influencer marketing, once a wild frontier, is now a serious business. Brands are investing billions, but questions about results are growing. Creators are becoming media moguls, demanding professionalism and measurable outcomes. This shift brings complexity and a potential loss of authenticity. The industry faces a crucial moment, needing to adapt for future success.
How India-EU FTA could be a catalyst for green transition, amid trade chaos
The newly endorsed EUIndia Strategic Agenda has elevated the partnership between the worlds largest democracy and Europes economic powerhouse to a more ambitious level, especially on climate action and trade. With COP30 concluding and a renewed push for a Free Trade Agreement, both sides are seeking a stronger collaboration to decarbonise key heavy industriessteel, cement, and transportwhose emissions shape global climate trajectories.
100 bribery case highlights deep fault lines in Indias justice system
Indias justice system is under strain as delays, backlogs, and questions over judicial integrity erode public trust. A recent example is an 86-year-old former transport employee in Chhattisgarh who was acquitted of a 100 bribery charge after fighting the case for nearly four decades. Such prolonged pendency now exceeding 5 crore cases nationwide has turned litigation itself into punishment, affecting livelihoods and liberty.
GST cuts don't always cut prices. Here's why
Lower GST rates don't necessarily translate to cheaper prices for consumers. This discrepancy arises from the complexity of tax processes related to raw materials and services. If businesses can offset reduced input taxes against output taxes, it might actually lead to increased costs overall. As a result, customers may not enjoy the anticipated price drops for specific goods and services.
Facing a Republican rebellion, Trumpus Maximus has caved by signing the Epstein files' release
Donald Trump has taken a bold step by signing the Epstein Files Transparency Act, a directive mandating the Justice Department to unveil documents tied to the Epstein investigation. This action follows a decisive congressional vote and increasing demands for accountability, showcasing a turning point as Trump's popularity wanes and dissent simmers within the GOP.
Mumbai & Cape Town: A hopeful tale of two coastal cities
Mumbai and Cape Town, two major coastal cities, are facing rising climate risks and are pursuing long-term plans to strengthen resilience. Mumbai, which experiences frequent flooding and is highly exposed to rising sea levels, aims to be carbon neutral by 2050.
Indian digital apps struggle against global giants like WhatsApp and Instagram. The article suggests restricting foreign apps for 5-7 years to allow Indian services to grow. This approach mirrors successes in China and Russia. Alternatively, data localization could lead to Indian subsidiaries. Tech sovereignty requires bold steps to protect Indian interests.
India's 'approvals economy': Why businesses need fewer permissions and more trust
Indias shift to e-files has improved efficiency, but a deep-rooted approvals economy still slows business. Experts call for self-certification, fewer clearances, and a trust-based model to spur growth.
