Author: Bhakti Narayanan

The President of the US-India Business Council, Atul Keshap, has strongly advocated for India and the United States to conclude a trade agreement that has remained unresolved for years. Speaking after his recent visit to India, Keshap emphasized that finalising the pact would play a critical role in strengthening economic integration and restoring confidence among businesses operating in both markets. Keshap pointed out that trade relations between the two countries are already on an upward trajectory, but unresolved tariff issues continue to create uncertainty. Addressing US-imposed tariffs on Indian exports, he noted that India has taken proactive steps to diversify…

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday announced a $450 million reconstruction package for Sri Lanka, reaffirming India’s role as a first responder following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. Highlighting Sri Lanka’s importance under India’s Neighbourhood First and MAHASAGAR policies, Jaishankar said it was natural for India to step forward during times of crisis. He recalled India’s earlier support to Sri Lanka during its economic difficulties. The External Affairs Minister called on Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in Colombo and handed over a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirming India’s commitment to Sri Lanka’s recovery and reconstruction.…

Indian diplomatic missions across the world observed World Meditation Day, emphasising the timeless relevance of meditation in fostering inner peace, emotional well-being and social harmony. In 2024, the United Nations General Assembly designated December 21 as World Meditation Day, recognising the importance of mindfulness and inner harmony in human life. Marking the occasion in Ghana, the Indian High Commission in Accra organised a unified meditation session at its Chancery, reaffirming the role of meditation in promoting physical and mental well-being. The event, organised in collaboration with the Art of Living, brought participants together in a shared moment of stillness and…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new terminal at Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam, on Saturday, marking a significant milestone for the region’s aviation sector. Constructed at an investment of $480 million, this terminal stands out as India’s first nature-themed airport, blending modern infrastructure with elements inspired by the region’s environment. The inauguration ceremony included Modi’s visit to the terminal and the unveiling of an 80-foot statue of Assam’s first chief minister, Gopinath Bardoloi, situated just outside the airport. Designed to accommodate over 13 million passengers annually, it now holds the distinction of being the largest airport…

During his two-day visit to Oman, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the Sultanate’s highest civilian honour, the First Class of the Order of Oman. This prestigious recognition places him among the world’s most decorated leaders and adds to his growing list of international accolades. The Order of Oman is the Sultanate’s top national award, reserved for foreign heads of state and global leaders who have significantly contributed to bilateral ties. PM Modi’s latest honour follows other distinguished awards, including Ethiopia’s Great Honour Nishan of Ethiopia and Kuwait’s Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer, highlighting his global stature and diplomatic influence. Expressing…

Neeraj Ghaywan’s directorial venture, ‘Homebound’, has officially been shortlisted for the International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards, moving to the next round of voting for the coveted Oscars 2026. The film, starring Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa, is among the 15 titles that have become eligible for final nominations in the category. According to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), a total of 86 countries and regions submitted films for consideration in the International Feature Film category. In the next phase, Academy members from all branches who opt in for participation must view all…

rime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized on Thursday that the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and Oman serves as a “blueprint for a shared future,” setting the stage for long-term growth in bilateral relations. Speaking at the India-Oman Business Summit, he described the agreement as a historic decision whose impact will be felt for decades. “CEPA will bring renewed trust and energy to our 21st-century partnership. It will expand trade, inspire investment, and create fresh opportunities across all sectors,” PM Modi stated. He encouraged business leaders from both countries to harness the momentum of the summit to strengthen trade…

US-based software firm Freshworks is actively exploring acquisitions to strengthen its artificial intelligence and product portfolio, supported by a cash reserve of more than $800 million. Chief Executive Officer Dennis Woodside said the company is looking at potential deals to accelerate revenue growth over the next few years, with artificial intelligence remaining a central theme of its strategy. The acquisition push comes at a time when AI adoption is reshaping the global technology landscape and driving a surge in mergers and acquisitions. According to data cited by JP Morgan, worldwide deal activity rose by 39 percent in 2025 to nearly…

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to arrive in Oman, members of the Indian business and professional community have expressed strong optimism, saying the visit will significantly deepen India–Oman ties and unlock new avenues for trade and investment. Speaking to IANS in Muscat on Wednesday, Indian industry leaders said the visit comes at a crucial time when both countries are seeking to elevate their partnership through structured dialogue and are exploring the possibility of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Nirmal K. Minda, Executive Chairman of Uno Minda Limited, said the visit could unlock collaboration across multiple sectors, including energy, manufacturing…

Apple Inc recorded its highest-ever monthly export value from India in November, shipping iPhones worth about $2,000 million, according to industry data. This milestone highlights India’s steadily expanding role in Apple’s global manufacturing and supply chain strategy. Based on the latest figures, the US-based technology company has exported iPhones valued at roughly $14,000 million from India during the first eight months of the current financial year. This strong export performance reflects both increased production capacity and rising global demand for devices assembled in the country. Recent company filings revealed that Apple India achieved record domestic sales of around $9,000 million…