Author: Senjuti Bhattacharya

 India’s digital payment ecosystem has achieved a major milestone, with the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) emerging as the most preferred method of transactions at 57%, overtaking cash usage, which stands at 38%, according to a recent survey published by DD News. The findings highlight a rapid transformation in consumer payment behaviour, with digital transactions becoming increasingly prevalent across both urban and rural areas. The surge in UPI adoption has been driven by widespread mobile phone penetration, improved internet accessibility, and growing acceptance of digital banking products. UPI’s ease of use, speed, and compatibility with multiple platforms have made it a…

 India’s chief negotiator and Special Secretary in the Department of Commerce, Rajesh Agrawal, announced that the India-US trade discussions are advancing toward formalising a legal agreement. Following a series of virtual engagements, Agrawal confirmed that next week he will lead a delegation to Washington to finalise the legal framework for the interim trade deal. Speaking to the media while releasing January trade data, Agrawal also referenced ongoing India-Canada Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations, stating that teams are working to finalise the terms of reference. Earlier this month, he had indicated that India aims to sign the interim trade deal with…

India captain Suryakumar Yadav dedicated his side’s comprehensive Twenty20 World Cup victory over Pakistan to supporters across the nation after a commanding display in Colombo. The high profile Group A contest, billed as one of the marquee clashes of the tournament, ultimately turned into a one sided affair as India posted 175 for 7 before dismissing Pakistan for 114 in 18 overs. Despite the intense anticipation surrounding the fixture, the match unfolded without major on field incidents. However, tension was visible before the first ball was bowled. During the toss at the R Premadasa Stadium, neither Suryakumar nor Pakistan captain…

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has been recognized as a Safe Kids Champion for Children, honoring his efforts to protect and promote the safety of young Americans. The award highlights his advocacy on critical issues affecting children, including initiatives to curb youth vaping and ensure baby food is free from harmful lead content. In his acceptance statement, Krishnamoorthi emphasized the importance of creating a safer environment for children, saying he is proud to stand up for policies that protect their health and well-being. His work focuses on both preventive measures and awareness campaigns, aiming to reduce exposure to health risks that can…

India has reiterated its consistent support for efforts aimed at promoting peace, stability and dialogue in West Asia, while confirming that it is examining an invitation from the United States to join the newly formed Gaza Board of Peace. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that India has received the invitation and is currently reviewing the proposal. The first session of the US-backed initiative is scheduled soon and aims to establish a pathway toward long-term peace, reconstruction and economic revival in Gaza. The Board of Peace initiative seeks to facilitate post-conflict stabilisation by reopening crossings, encouraging demilitarisation of armed groups…

Washington has recognized India as a central pillar for stability in South Asia and the western Indo-Pacific, as the Trump administration outlined its “America first” approach focused on trade, defense collaboration, and targeted investments across the region. In written testimony before the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Subcommittee on South and Central Asia, Assistant Secretary of State Paul Kapur emphasized that President Trump’s National Security Strategy prioritizes active engagement in key global regions to advance US economic and security interests. Kapur highlighted South Asia’s global significance, noting India’s population of over one billion and its vast subcontinental territory. He warned that…

Indian-American medical professional Dr Anil Kumar has formally entered the race for the US House of Representatives as an independent candidate from Michigan’s 11th Congressional District, arguing that systemic shortcomings in healthcare, gaps in education, and limited political influence for Indian Americans require urgent attention. His decision follows the departure of Democratic Representative Haley Stevens, who is now contesting for the US Senate, leaving the seat open for new contenders. Speaking in a detailed interview, Kumar emphasized that open congressional seats present a rare window for political newcomers to bring fresh perspectives. He noted that the district is home to…

A prominent Indian-American maritime executive has been recognized for his outstanding leadership in the global shipping industry through a prestigious international award jointly presented by a United Nations agency and Bahrain’s leading business chamber. Dr. SV Anchan, Chairman of Safesea Group, received the ACE Global Bridges 2026 Global Maritime Personality for Performance & Leadership Award, conferred by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Washington-based ACE Health Foundation. The award ceremony took place at a special event hosted in Bahrain on February 8. Speaking at the event, Dr. Anchan expressed deep…

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a high-level meeting with Seychelles President Dr. Patrick Herminie on Monday, as the island nation’s leader continues his inaugural state visit to India. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations and promote collaboration across critical sectors such as maritime security and economic development. Highlighting the strategic significance of the meeting on X, EAM Jaishankar noted that as maritime neighbors, India values Seychelles’ support in advancing the #VisionMAHASAGAR initiative, which focuses on regional prosperity and security. He expressed confidence that President Herminie’s scheduled engagements with Prime Minister Narendra Modi would pave the way for enhanced…

India and the United States are set to formalize a comprehensive trade agreement in March, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral economic ties, Trade Minister Piyush Goyal confirmed on Thursday. Following the signing, New Delhi will reduce tariffs on U.S. imports, while Washington will lower duties on Indian goods from 50% to 18%. According to Goyal, the two governments plan to issue a joint statement within four to five days, signaling the official adoption of the deal. Under the agreement, India will commit to purchasing approximately $500 billion worth of U.S. products over the next five years. This includes $70–80 billion…