BJP veteran Murli Manohar Joshi stated India is not currently a ‘vishwaguru’ and urged for its aspiration to be one. He advocated for greater promotion of Sanskrit, emphasizing its significance in modern science like quantum computing and its potential as India’s official language, citing past efforts by B.R. Ambedkar.
NITI Aayog’s report highlights the Middle East conflict’s potential impact on India’s trade and economy, risking the current account deficit and exchange rate. Instability also slows India-GCC FTA talks, hindering market access. Despite global uncertainty, merchandise trade remains steady, with services showing strong performance.
Air India is investing $400 million to revamp its older wide-body planes with upgraded cabins, including suite-style business class seats, aiming to attract high-value passengers and boost revenue. The airline is also inducting new aircraft and expanding premium airport lounges, with refurbished Boeing 787s already enhancing customer satisfaction on key international routes.
The US government has launched a tool to refund over $166 billion in tariffs imposed by former President Trump, following a Supreme Court ruling. Importers can now submit documentation to recover payments, with electronic refunds for approximately $127 billion in duties available initially. The extent of consumer repayment hinges on companies sharing recovered funds.
An Enforcement Directorate investigation into political consultancy firm I-PAC has ignited a major political clash in West Bengal. The probe, initially focused on money laundering, has escalated into a confrontation involving raids and arrests. Chief minister Mamata Banerjee’s alleged intervention during a raid has become a central point of contention, with both parties trading accusations
India and the US are resuming trade negotiations in Washington DC from April 20-22 to discuss the first phase of their bilateral trade agreement. The talks are being held under a revised framework following recent shifts in the US tariff regime, which have reduced India’s previous trade advantages and necessitate recalibration of the agreement.
The Pakistan Cricket Board has banned Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka for one year from the Pakistan Super League after he withdrew to join an IPL franchise. The PCB cited a breach of contractual obligations for the decision. Blessing Muzarabani also received a two-year ban for a similar issue, though his agent disputes the contract’s
