Backgrounders

Remembering Pandit Kishan Maharaj: The Thunderous Soul of the Benares Gharana

Pandit’s unmatched mastery, crystal-clear artistry, and spontaneous brilliance continue to inspire generations—a heartfelt tribute to a legend whose rhythms echo beyond time.

After brazen heist targeting Venezuela’s President Maduro, US unlikely to back off on Iran

From the 2009 protests to Starlink-fuelled unrest, myths of digital subversion persist as Iran braces for US pressure, amid growing China–Russia support.

Remembering Indian poet and Hindi film lyricist Qamar Jalalabadi on his death anniversary, January 9.

Lyricists in Hindi film songs remain unrecognized, overshadowed by singers and composers, except among connoisseurs.
Neighbourhood
Defence

Choke Points Choking Global Trade: Tolling of the ‘Hormuz Strait’?

U.S. blockade of Iranian ports and proposed Hormuz tolls heighten global energy, trade, and maritime security concerns amid fragile Gulf tensions.

Why Islamabad Talks Failed

The negotiations in Islamabad have failed, hardly surprising given that the positions of Iran, the United States, and Israel are miles apart.

US to Investigate Discriminatory Trade Practices and Forced Labour:

India’s challenges to Treading the hazardous Trading Path
Energy

E20 debate reveals India’s uneven energy transition trade-offs

India’s ethanol push boosts energy security and farm incomes, but consumers remain unconvinced amid mileage and price concerns.

Why oil demand remains resilient amid quest for critical minerals

In the era of energy transition, oil will continue to retain its strategic importance because of geopolitical realities.

US to Investigate Discriminatory Trade Practices and Forced Labour:

India’s challenges to Treading the hazardous Trading Path
World

The India-US bilateral trade agreement: A deal on hold

Conflicting domestic economic policies, sudden judicial disruptions, and fresh American tariff investigations have upended the India-US trade deal.

Loyalty without leverage: India’s US tilt yields little

India’s attempt to balance ties with the US has turned into a tilt, still deemed insufficient by Washington. For India, it is all stick and no carrots

Iran’s Defiance: Lessons for the Gulf and the Global South

Iran has offered a lesson to the Global South — standing up to Donald Trump can safeguard a nation’s interests, while capitulation risks losing far more.