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

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

Can AI offer the SDGs a lifeline?

With the global sustainability agenda critically behind schedule, a new AI-powered platform offers a novel approach to accelerating progress
World

How the US–China reset recasts the QUAD

With the shift in US–China relations, India is emerging as the strategic cog in the US wheel, Pakistan as a tactical partner, NATO as the anchor of the Atlantic alliance, and QUAD countries as a tool to serve the Indo‑Pacific.

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.