India’s once strong partnership with Bangladesh is facing challenges as Bangladesh seeks the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to answer for alleged crimes committed during her rule. Hasina fled to India in the midst of protests against her government, which was plagued by accusations of election fraud and human rights abuses. The head of Bangladesh’s interim government, Muhammad Yunus, has voiced the demand for Hasina’s return to face justice, stating that without her presence, the people of Bangladesh will not find peace. Hasina herself has called for accountability for recent acts of terrorism in Bangladesh, a call that…

India, the world’s leading rice exporter, is facing pressure from domestic traders to relax export restrictions to maintain their market share. As the country prepares for a strong harvest, traders are urging the government to either eliminate or reduce the minimum export price on premium basmati rice. The All India Rice Exporters Association (AIREA) has requested that the government consider lowering the minimum export price from US$950 per ton to US$750 per ton in anticipation of a bumper crop. Currently, India only allows exports of basmati and parboiled rice varieties, with a 20% export tax imposed last year to prevent…

Amidst the tension between India and China after the deadly clashes in the Galwan Valley, investment approvals have been granted to prominent names like Luxshare and Bhagwati Products-Huaqin Technology joint venture. This marks a significant shift in policy, opening doors for Chinese investment opportunities in India. The move is part of a new policy by India to promote manufacturing components locally, aiming for self-reliance and reducing dependency on imports. This aligns with the vision to become a manufacturing hub, attracting investments from various Asian countries including China. The relaxation in Chinese investment rules is also seen as a way to…

Some doctors are finding it difficult to stay away from work, especially in private hospitals, despite recent tragic incidents. One trainee doctor in Kolkata faced a grueling workload, leading to her untimely demise. This has sparked outrage and demands for justice among India’s medical community and civil society. Doctors in Delhi shout slogans during a protest on Monday demanding justice following the rape and murder in Kolkata. Photo: Reuters Safety concerns and poor working conditions in hospitals have long been ignored, leading to frequent attacks on medical professionals. Demands for secure working environments and proper rest areas have now culminated…

The Indian government is closely monitoring the safety of the 19,000-strong Indian community in Bangladesh, with a focus on the 9,000 students. Many students have already returned to India, and border forces are on high alert. Despite Hasina’s rule strengthening ties with India, her departure has left uncertainty. Bangladesh’s economic growth and trade with India were crucial, with potential implications for the region’s stability. The political unrest could open doors for radical groups, impacting the South Asian region. The rise of extremism and economic challenges in Bangladesh post-Hasina’s departure pose risks for India. India-Bangladesh trade relations are crucial for regional…

The recent riots in Britain have raised concerns among Muslim visitors about the broader anti-Islamic sentiment it may stoke. Gary Bowerman, a tourism analysis expert, emphasized the importance of upholding Britain’s reputation for racial diversity and tolerance through strong legal measures. Asian travelers prioritize personal safety, especially for long-haul travel, considering past incidents during the early days of Covid in Europe and North America, according to Bowerman. European destinations are now eager to regain their Asian visitor markets during China’s Golden Week in October and the upcoming Christmas and New Year holidays. The impact on visitor arrivals from Asia will…

During a joint rally in Houston in September 2019, Trump compared Modi to Elvis Presley for his star appeal. The leaders drew a massive crowd of over 100,000 people at a stadium in Ahmedabad five months later, praising each other warmly. Modi enjoys considerable support among Indian Americans, with around 50% approving of him, according to a recent study. However, concerns about Trump’s treatment of ethnic minorities may deter even hardcore Modi supporters from backing the US president in the upcoming election. Recent remarks by Trump casting doubt on Kamala Harris’ ethnic origins have further alienated Asian-American voters from his…

Indian analysts highlight Delhi’s dependence on Russian arms and equipment, emphasizing the need to maintain security amidst Moscow’s growing alignment with China. Harsh Pant from King’s College London underscores India’s necessity for Russian support in dealing with China along its borders, despite recent Western-leaning trends. Tensions between Delhi and Beijing persist following the 2020 border clashes, prompting India to prioritize its long-standing relationship with Russia. Modifying traditional diplomatic norms, Indian Prime Minister Modi’s recent visit to Russia signifies a strategic move amidst geopolitical shifts. Armoured vehicles of the Indian army at a military camp in Eastern Ladakh. Photo: AFP Delhi’s…

The UK workforce has seen a significant increase in foreign-born workers, with a rise from 9% to 19% over the past two decades, totaling around 6.2 million people by the end of 2022. Skilled talent from countries like India, China, and Pakistan has contributed to this influx, with challenges arising from anti-immigration sentiments. For India, the movement of skilled professionals is crucial for trade pacts negotiation. However, right-wing populism, as seen through Nigel Farage’s Reform UK Party in the UK, poses challenges to immigration policies and affects the movement of talent internationally. With the potential disruption in cross-border talent movement,…

Recent political changes in Europe have sparked discussions on economic growth and partnerships in Asia. British political analyst Christopher Blackburn highlighted the potential for Europe to enhance infrastructure support in Asian countries. The cost-of-living crisis in Europe has led to electoral upsets, while France’s New Popular Front has promised economic reforms. As the UK plans to strengthen ties with India through a free trade agreement, concerns persist about debt levels and economic stability. Analysts predict a more moderate approach towards China under the new UK government, focusing on economic growth and stability. As the UK looks to rebound from past…