QUICKREADS

Monsoon in Delhi, summer in London
Weather shapes perceptions and experiences. The author reflects on changing attitudes towards monsoons in Delhi and summers in London, noting how climate influences mood, lifestyle, and personal transformation across different geographical contexts.

Leader who presided over the rise of RSS
Mohan Bhagwat, RSS leader, celebrated on his 75th birthday, has transformed the organization through adaptability and commitment. Guided by principles of national unity and social harmony, he has led RSS through complex times, emphasizing youth engagement and societal development.

How Puttaswamy exorcised the ghost of ADM Jabalpur
The Supreme Court's Puttaswamy judgment overturned the infamous ADM Jabalpur case, affirming privacy as a fundamental right. It reversed the Emergency-era ruling that had stripped citizens of liberty, marking a crucial moment in India's constitutional democracy.

In France, it is political crisis season again
French Premier Bayrou resigned after losing a confidence vote over austerity measures. President Macron appointed Sébastien Lecornu as new prime minister. Political crisis deepens amid economic challenges, potential street protests, and growing far-right influence, signaling potential systemic changes.

Onus on China to take SCO beyond symbolism
Prime Minister Modi at SCO summit urged combating terrorism, with China's support crucial. India seeks to leverage the platform for regional connectivity and strategic interests, while pushing for a more effective multilateral approach in Eurasia.

Envisaging a framework for Sudarshan Chakra
PM Modi's Mission Sudarshan Chakra aims to develop a multi-layered air defense system by 2035, integrating legacy and modern weapon platforms, focusing on unmanned aerial systems, drone defense, and adaptable military capabilities.

Why the old regime in Nepal had to exit
A hit-and-run incident sparked massive Gen Z protests in Nepal, leading to violent clashes, 19 youth deaths, and the resignation of Prime Minister K.P. Oli. The uprising targeted political elites, symbolically dismantling the old state apparatus and demanding generational change.

The Taste by Vir Sanghvi: Maldives welcomes Indian tourists back amid new luxury resort developments
It’s never been easier for Indians to go to the Maldives. A year ago, if you believed the hype, it was all over between Delhi and Male. A newly elected government had focused on an anti-India platform, and some ministers had made offensive anti-Indian remarks. It seemed to me then that this was a mere ripple in the long relationship between India and the Maldives and judging by its response, our foreign ministry took the same position and said very little in public.

India needs a new compact for government-owned labs
India needs a new approach to revive government-owned scientific labs. The Accreditation Catalyst Model proposes shared access, certification, and accountability, transforming idle infrastructure into productive testing facilities for startups, MSMEs, and researchers.

Tax rate cuts: Centre’s great growth gamble
The Indian government is cutting tax rates to stimulate economic growth, risking potential revenue loss. By reducing GST and personal income tax, they aim to boost consumption and trigger private investment, hoping increased economic activity will offset the fiscal strain.

Chinese checkers with Pakistan and the Taliban
China's foreign minister visited Kabul for a trilateral dialogue, aiming to mediate tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban. Beijing seeks to manage regional security, economic interests, and counter-terrorism challenges while navigating complex diplomatic relationships.

Mind the Gap: In her words: Safeena Husain
Educate Girls, founded by Safeena Husain, works to keep girls in school across rural India. By mobilizing communities, they've helped two million girls, aiming to boost education, delay marriage, and increase potential income and national GDP.

Georgia’s balancing act in Russia’s neighbourhood
Georgia navigates a delicate geopolitical landscape, balancing between Russia and the West amid economic challenges. Citizens remain cautious about Russia's intentions, with mixed feelings about their government's approach, while struggling with unemployment and uncertain future prospects.

What guides the new GST reforms exercise
Prime Minister Modi emphasizes GST reforms focusing on structural changes, rate rationalization, and taxpayer ease. The reforms aim to simplify tax slabs, reduce disputes, support MSMEs, and enhance economic inclusivity while prioritizing common people's interests.

Bhupen Hazarika: A voice for the people
Bhupen Hazarika, a legendary Assamese musician, transcended musical boundaries, championing social justice and unity. Awarded Bharat Ratna, he embodied cultural diversity, connecting people through powerful songs that celebrated humanity, roots, and shared aspirations across India.

Book Box | Himalayan floods, Sarajevo siege and the stories that anchor us
During Himalayan floods, the author finds solace in books like "Black Butterflies" and J.K. Rowling's thriller. She draws parallels between her challenging situation and the protagonist Zora's experiences during the Sarajevo siege, finding comfort and inspiration through reading.