INDIA CHINA Connect

At 75, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remains an inspiring figure, known for his disciplined lifestyle. With just 3.5 hours of sleep, yoga, meditation, a sattvic diet, and rigorous fasting practices, Modi maintains unparalleled energy and focus. His simple habits, like starting his day at 4 AM and adhering to age-old traditions, underscore the power of consistency and balance. Modi exemplifies how discipline can sustain vitality, even in the most demanding roles.

India’s strategic diplomacy is highlighted by Russia reaffirming its enduring ties with New Delhi, President Trump revising his stance on mediating the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and the US resuming trade talks with India. Moscow praises India’s resilience against Western pressures, while Washington acknowledges India’s pivotal role in trade and geopolitics. Balancing relationships with both powers, India asserts its autonomy and strengthens its position as a key player in the

Countries worldwide are leveraging residency programmes, such as "Golden Visas," to attract wealthy Indians and skilled professionals, boosting their economies and global influence. These programmes offer benefits like global mobility, education, and healthcare while fostering economic ties. However, India's talent migration poses challenges like brain drain and capital flight. By embracing its diaspora as a strategic asset, India can balance domestic growth with global engag

India’s exports rose 6.7% YoY to $35.1 billion in August, aided by a low base but challenged by US tariffs and global uncertainties. Imports dropped 10.13%, narrowing the trade deficit to $26.49 billion. Services exports grew 12.18%, with a surplus of $16.61 billion. Non-petroleum exports increased 6.1%, driven by electronics and pharmaceuticals. However, escalating US tariffs may impact September exports, with government reforms aiming to boost competitiveness.

Accelerated AI adoption in India could contribute $500-600 billion to GDP by 2035, driven by productivity gains in financial services and manufacturing. A NITI Aayog report highlights AI’s potential to close the gap between India’s projected $6.6 trillion GDP and its $8.3 trillion target under the Viksit Bharat 2047 framework. Key sectors like space tech, R&D, and financial innovation could fuel growth, with new initiatives fostering AI-driven economic transformation.

India has added seven sites to UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List, highlighting its dedication to preserving its cultural and natural heritage. The sites include geological marvels like Maharashtra’s Deccan Traps, Karnataka’s St Mary’s Islands, and Kerala’s Varkala Cliffs. Notably, two sites from the Northeast—Meghalayan Age Caves and Naga Hill Ophiolite—bring focus to this underrepresented region. With 69 properties now on the list, India strengthens its global heritage

India's global education legacy, rooted in ancient institutions like Nalanda, evolves through modern initiatives such as IITs and IIMs. The inauguration of IIM Ahmedabad’s Dubai campus marks a milestone, reflecting India’s push to globalize education. Collaborations with the UAE highlight efforts to foster innovation, research, and cultural exchange. Aligning with NEP 2020, India’s overseas campuses position it as a global knowledge hub, bridging nations and strengthening its

India is building its first private-sector strategic petroleum reserve (SPR) in Padur, Karnataka, led by Megha Engineering & Infrastructures Ltd. The Rs 5,700 crore project will add 2.5 million metric tonnes to India’s SPR capacity, enhancing energy security. Megha will construct and operate the facility for 60 years, generating revenue through storage leasing and trading. This public-private partnership marks a major step toward reducing reliance on imports and improving eme

India’s unemployment rate fell to 5.1% in August 2025, its second consecutive monthly decline, driven by improvements in rural and male employment. Rural unemployment dropped to 4.3%, while male unemployment hit a five-month low at 5%. Women’s Worker Population Ratio (WPR) and Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) also rose, reflecting increased workforce involvement. The Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) highlights a positive recovery in India’s labour market across rural