News related to
India’s

By Nantoo Banerjee India, the world’s second most preferred destination of illegal migrants, has a lot to learn from the United States about how the latter has been handling the situation in recent years. Although US President Donald Trump is lately hogging the limelight for forcing illegal immigrants out of the country, such deportations are […]
By Girish Linganna US President Donald Trump has raked up a hornets’ nest in New Delhi by claiming that $21 million in US aid to India—from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), an independent US government agency responsible for administering civilian foreign aid and development assistance, approved earlier by Joe Biden, was used […]
By Arun Srivastava Saffron ecosystem, especially the BJP leadership always strives to turn a Hindu festival into a political controversy. Every dispute adds to its membership and helps widen its support base. This time too they have succeeded in their move to politicize Maha Kumbh Mela. Notwithstanding stampede and death of large number of pilgrims […]
By Swarati Sabhapandit SOCIAL media influencer Ranveer Allahabadia’s question to a contestant on the online show ‘India’s Got Latent’ has attracted not only public outrage, but systematic response from various State authorities. By mid-February, the Maharashtra Cyber Department had filed a First Information Report (‘FIR’) against Allahabadia, comedian Samay Raina, and other artists from the […]
By Sushil Kutty In a special gesture Prime Minister Narendra Modi went to the Indira Gandhi International Airport on Monday and received the Amir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani. And in another special gesture, because the Amir is extraordinarily tall, security personnel assigned to stand at guard at the […]
By Dr. Gyan Pathak The data that PM Narendra Modi government has been churning out since 2014 have always been a suspect. Now, by no less a person than PM Narendra Modi’s own Economic Advisor has indicated that many of the data earlier produced even under the Modi regime were “influenced” while chiefly targeting the […]

Prointek, a prominent player in the interactive technology and unified communication sectors, has officially opened its latest manufacturing facility in Greater Noida, marking a significant step towards bolstering India’s self-reliance in high-tech production. This new facility, strategically located in the National Capital Region, is expected to not only increase the company’s production capacity but also enhance its contribution to the rapidly expanding sector.

The 250,000-square-foot plant, which has been in development for several months, will focus on the production of a variety of interactive displays and unified communication solutions. The facility is a response to the growing demand for high-quality tech products that support modern communication systems, particularly as businesses and educational institutions continue to embrace digital transformation.

Prointek’s expansion aligns with the government’s ongoing push for “Atmanirbhar Bharat” , which encourages domestic manufacturing and aims to reduce dependency on foreign imports. By investing in local production capabilities, Prointek seeks to not only cater to the local market but also expand its presence globally, making the plant a crucial element in the company’s long-term strategy.

The company’s expansion is poised to have a significant impact on the regional economy as well. The facility is expected to create numerous job opportunities, both in the manufacturing sector and in associated roles such as research and development, logistics, and sales. Local suppliers of materials and components are also likely to benefit from the enhanced production activity, fostering growth in ancillary industries.

Prointek’s decision to build the facility in Greater Noida reflects the area’s attractiveness for tech-focused investments. The region has become a hub for IT and electronics manufacturing, with proximity to Delhi and well-established infrastructure facilitating easier access to global markets. The presence of skilled labour and a supportive business environment has also made Greater Noida an ideal location for such expansions.

The new manufacturing plant will primarily focus on producing cutting-edge interactive displays, smartboards, and video conferencing systems. These products are highly sought after in various sectors, including education, corporate communications, government services, and healthcare. As hybrid work models and remote learning continue to gain popularity, the demand for advanced technology solutions that bridge physical and virtual spaces has seen substantial growth.

In line with its commitment to sustainability, Prointek has incorporated green technologies into the facility’s design and operations. The plant is equipped with energy-efficient systems and has adopted a zero-waste policy, reflecting the company’s dedication to minimizing its environmental footprint while meeting the demands of the digital age. This move positions Prointek as a leader in eco-conscious manufacturing practices within the technology sector.

The expansion is not only about increasing production capacity but also about enhancing the company’s research and development efforts. Prointek plans to leverage the new facility as a hub for innovation, where cutting-edge technologies can be developed to meet the evolving needs of global markets. With a growing focus on artificial intelligence and machine learning in interactive systems, the company aims to integrate these technologies into its products to provide more dynamic and user-friendly solutions.

Prointek’s growth trajectory has been impressive, with the company already enjoying a strong presence in key international markets. The establishment of the Greater Noida facility is expected to strengthen its competitive edge, enabling the company to meet increasing demand across the globe. As technology continues to play an integral role in communication and business operations, Prointek’s commitment to quality and innovation positions it for continued success.

This move comes at a time when the Indian government is actively encouraging foreign direct investment and supporting the growth of the manufacturing sector through initiatives such as the Production Linked Incentive scheme. These policies are designed to attract global tech companies and encourage domestic companies like Prointek to expand their capabilities. The opening of the new facility is likely to act as a catalyst for further investments in India’s tech manufacturing space.

The growth of Prointek’s operations in India reflects the broader trend of tech companies increasing their local manufacturing presence. This shift is driven by various factors, including the desire to mitigate supply chain risks, reduce lead times, and take advantage of the favourable business environment in India. The opening of Prointek’s plant is a clear indication that India is becoming an increasingly important player in the global tech manufacturing landscape.

Industry analysts expect that Prointek’s new facility will further strengthen India’s position in the global technology market. As more companies follow suit and ramp up domestic manufacturing capabilities, India could become a key hub for the production of high-tech products, offering a competitive alternative to traditional manufacturing centres in Asia and beyond.

Advertisements

r/developersIndia is hosting its inaugural online hackathon, offering participants the opportunity to earn ₹1,50,000 in prizes while contributing to the open-source community. The event, which is a collaboration with DeepSource, aims to strengthen code security and enhance developers’ contributions to improving software ecosystems.

The hackathon, dubbed “Globstar,” invites developers of all levels to participate and demonstrate their coding prowess. Participants will be tasked with solving challenges that specifically focus on code security, an increasingly important aspect of software development in today’s digital world. The competition is open to individuals or teams, allowing flexibility in collaboration.

According to the event organisers, the Globstar hackathon is an excellent platform for developers to make a meaningful impact on open-source projects. Open-source software has become essential in today’s technological landscape, with numerous businesses and organisations relying on these community-driven projects for the development of critical applications. This event seeks to build on the growing interest in open-source contributions by engaging developers in meaningful challenges that contribute to the improvement of code quality and security.

DeepSource, a key partner in the event, is known for its tools that help developers write secure, reliable, and efficient code. By providing support to the hackathon, DeepSource aims to foster a stronger community of developers committed to ensuring that security remains at the forefront of development practices. The company’s collaboration with r/developersIndia underscores a shared goal of improving the state of code security, something that has become even more urgent as the world increasingly relies on software in every aspect of life.

Participants will have the chance to win prizes in various categories, with the total prize pool amounting to ₹1,50,000. The competition is designed to be accessible to developers with different skill sets, from beginners to advanced coders. Each challenge is structured in a way that promotes learning and growth, allowing even newcomers to the field to gain valuable insights into security practices and coding techniques. This approach aligns with the organisers’ mission to support the development of a more skilled and security-conscious software development community.

In addition to the prizes, participants will also receive recognition for their contributions to open-source software. The importance of open-source projects cannot be overstated, as they often serve as the backbone for innovations in technology. Contributions from hackathon participants may lead to the implementation of security improvements in widely used tools, further enhancing the ecosystem’s security.

The event also provides a valuable networking opportunity for developers, as participants can collaborate with others and connect with industry experts. With a focus on collaboration and learning, the hackathon fosters an environment where developers can exchange ideas, gain mentorship, and refine their skills in a competitive yet supportive setting.

As for the registration details, developers must sign up for the hackathon by February 20, 8:00 PM IST. Those interested can visit the official event page on r/developersIndia’s platform for more information about the challenges, guidelines, and instructions on how to participate. The registration process is straightforward, with all the necessary details available to ensure participants are fully prepared to take part in the competition.

This hackathon is part of a broader trend of online coding challenges that have become increasingly popular over the past few years. With the rise of remote work and digital collaboration, virtual events like the Globstar hackathon have become an essential tool for fostering global communities of developers. They not only provide a platform for competition but also encourage a collaborative approach to solving complex problems, especially those related to security and open-source development.

The rise of cyber threats has made it imperative for developers to prioritise security in their coding practices. Hackathons like Globstar serve as a reminder of the critical role developers play in safeguarding software systems from vulnerabilities. The Globstar hackathon also highlights the growing recognition of the importance of secure coding in the developer community, which is now more than ever aware of the need to address potential risks in their work.

Tesla Inc. has made a significant move towards entering the Indian market, as evidenced by a surge in job openings across key locations like Mumbai and Delhi. The company is currently seeking to fill 13 roles, spanning customer-facing and back-end positions, marking a clear commitment to establishing a foothold in India’s growing electric vehicle sector.

The announcement comes after Elon Musk’s high-profile meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a discussion that appears to have catalysed Tesla’s decision to pursue expansion in the region. The timing of this strategic move is especially relevant given the recent developments in India’s trade policies, with the government reducing import duties on luxury cars, a measure that could provide Tesla with a more favourable environment for operations.

India’s electric vehicle market, while still in its infancy compared to China’s, is poised for considerable growth. The country’s rapid urbanisation, increased government focus on sustainability, and rising interest in eco-friendly transportation solutions position it as a key player in the global EV landscape. Tesla, with its reputation for high-performance, premium EVs, stands to benefit from these trends.

Tesla’s recruitment efforts are seen as an indication of the company’s intention to tap into the vast potential of India’s automotive sector. The roles available span various areas, including technical support and operations, aimed at building the company’s infrastructure in the region. This is not the first time Tesla has shown interest in India; however, the recent policy changes have provided a more favourable environment for international companies looking to expand their operations.

Prime Minister Modi’s engagement with Elon Musk is likely to have been a pivotal factor in advancing Tesla’s plans for India. During the meeting, both parties discussed ways to enhance cooperation, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy and electric vehicles. Tesla’s entry into India aligns with the government’s push to reduce carbon emissions and transition towards sustainable energy solutions.

The reduction in import duties on luxury vehicles is a significant policy shift that could greatly benefit Tesla’s plans. Previously, India imposed high import duties on foreign-made vehicles, making it challenging for companies like Tesla to price their products competitively in the local market. The recent reduction, part of a broader effort to stimulate the EV sector, is seen as a move to attract global automakers. Tesla, which manufactures its vehicles primarily in the United States, is expected to benefit from these lower tariffs, potentially making its vehicles more affordable for Indian consumers.

India’s EV market, while smaller than China’s, is growing at a rapid pace. The country’s government has set ambitious targets for electric vehicle adoption, with a focus on reducing air pollution and decreasing dependence on imported oil. The Indian government has also introduced several incentives to promote the sale and manufacturing of electric vehicles, including subsidies for EV buyers and manufacturers, as well as tax exemptions for charging infrastructure.

Despite these encouraging trends, Tesla will face stiff competition in the Indian market. Homegrown automakers, such as Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra, have already established themselves as key players in the EV sector, offering affordable electric cars that cater to Indian consumers’ needs. Additionally, the infrastructure for electric vehicles in India remains underdeveloped in many regions, with limited charging stations and a lack of widespread awareness among consumers about EV technology.

Nevertheless, Tesla’s brand recognition and technological expertise are expected to give it an edge in the Indian market. The company’s high-performance vehicles, coupled with its focus on sustainable energy solutions, could appeal to India’s growing middle and upper classes, who are increasingly concerned with environmental issues. Additionally, Tesla’s potential to create local manufacturing jobs and contribute to India’s green energy goals may help the company secure government support.

Tesla’s entry into India also signals the increasing importance of emerging markets in the global automotive industry. As more companies look to expand beyond their traditional markets in North America and Europe, countries like India and China are becoming central to the automotive industry’s future growth. India, with its large population, growing middle class, and rising environmental awareness, presents a significant opportunity for Tesla to expand its global footprint.

By Shanil Yakoob Almost a month to this day, on January 16, 2025, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu made a startling proposal. Individuals with fewer than two children, he suggested, should be disqualified from contesting local body elections. This announcement came just two months after his government passed the Andhra Pradesh Panchayat Raj […]
By Kunal Bose The world, much to its disappointment, is seeing the United States of America, which is the world largest economy and mightiest military power, rapidly embracing raw, unrestrained capitalism under the newly inaugurated second-term Presidency of Donald John Trump abandoning all traces of egalitarianism. Induction of Tesla chairman Elon Musk to head the […]

A team of scientists from Bengaluru has developed a cutting-edge catalyst that could significantly enhance the production of green hydrogen, offering a promising solution for a cleaner energy future. Green hydrogen, produced by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable electricity in a process called electrolysis, has emerged as one of the most sought-after clean fuels to decarbonise various sectors, including transport and heavy industry. The […]

By Nantoo Banerjee The government disinvestment in India’s state-controlled enterprises is always welcome if it is aimed to make them professionally managed entities for faster growth. Unfortunately, the haphazard disinvestments in public sector enterprises (PSE) by the government seem to have only a single purpose — financing part of the annual union budget deficit. The […]

A looming tariff threat from the United States is casting a shadow over multiple sectors in India, including automobiles, textiles, and footwear, with analysts warning that potential hikes in import duties could disrupt trade and economic growth. This growing concern comes amid rising trade tensions between the two countries, which have led to a heightened focus on the viability of Indian exports in the face of stricter US trade policies.

The US administration has indicated that it might impose higher tariffs on goods from India, a move that could significantly affect industries critical to the Indian economy. With the US being one of India’s largest trading partners, the prospect of tariffs on goods such as cars, clothing, and shoes is troubling for manufacturers and exporters alike. According to recent reports, India’s automotive and textile sectors have been identified as particularly vulnerable due to their significant export volumes to the US market.

The automotive sector, which includes both luxury cars and compact vehicles, stands to lose billions of dollars in export revenue should tariffs increase. India is home to several global automotive manufacturers, including Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, and Mahindra & Mahindra, which export a substantial number of vehicles to the US. A tariff hike could render these products less competitive, pushing US-based consumers towards locally manufactured or cheaper imported alternatives from other countries. In 2023, India exported nearly $2 billion worth of cars to the US, a figure that could shrink under new tariffs.

Similarly, the textiles industry, another key player in India’s export economy, faces a turbulent future if tariffs are raised. India is the world’s second-largest producer of textiles, with a significant portion of its products headed to the US market. The US is a vital customer for Indian textiles, including apparel, fabrics, and home furnishings. Analysts argue that any increase in tariffs could lead to a decline in demand, as US buyers might seek more affordable alternatives from other suppliers, particularly from countries that currently benefit from lower trade barriers.

The footwear sector is also at risk, with India exporting a wide range of footwear items to the US. Footwear exports have been a growing part of India’s manufacturing output, with the US accounting for a major portion of this trade. A tariff increase could significantly affect manufacturers, especially small and medium enterprises , which depend heavily on the US market for revenue. These companies may struggle to absorb the additional costs imposed by tariffs, leading to potential price hikes or a reduction in exports.

The looming tariff threat is not just about trade barriers; it also reflects broader geopolitical concerns. Trade relations between the US and India have been increasingly strained due to disagreements over various trade practices, including market access, intellectual property rights, and agricultural policies. The US has expressed dissatisfaction with India’s protectionist policies, and this discontent has translated into the threat of tariffs. However, the issue is not only about trade; it also touches on political relations, with both countries vying for greater economic influence in the region.

Trade experts suggest that India could be facing a period of heightened vulnerability, especially as the US underlines its “America First” policy, prioritising domestic industries and reducing reliance on imports. While India has sought to diversify its trade partnerships and strengthen ties with other countries, including the European Union and Japan, the US remains a key economic player. This makes the potential for increased tariffs particularly damaging for India, especially in light of its ambition to boost exports and achieve a higher growth trajectory.

In response to the threat of higher tariffs, the Indian government has ramped up efforts to protect its domestic industries by exploring alternative markets and seeking to negotiate more favourable trade terms with the US. The government has also engaged in diplomatic efforts to reduce trade tensions, hoping to find common ground on issues that could benefit both nations. However, some experts are sceptical about the immediate impact of these negotiations, given the political climate and the US’s growing tendency to assert its economic interests.

The potential consequences of these tariffs extend beyond individual industries. Analysts caution that a tariff hike could lead to inflationary pressures within India, as businesses may pass on the additional costs to consumers. This, in turn, could affect consumer spending and dampen overall economic activity. Moreover, sectors like automotive manufacturing and textiles are major sources of employment, and any disruption in these industries could result in significant job losses, further straining India’s labour market.

For now, industry stakeholders are watching closely as developments unfold. The automotive sector is exploring strategies to mitigate the impact of potential tariffs, including shifting production to other countries or adjusting product lines to cater to the changing demands of US consumers. Similarly, the textiles industry is focusing on increasing its competitive edge by diversifying its offerings and tapping into non-US markets. However, these measures may not be enough to offset the damage caused by a sharp rise in tariffs, which could push both sectors to reconsider their overall export strategies.

By K Raveendran The Indo-US joint declaration presents a striking imbalance, appearing more as a dictated statement than a mutually crafted agreement. The document is overwhelmingly skewed in favour of the United States, particularly in the domain of defence procurement, where it reads less like a diplomatic understanding and more like a sales pitch for […]
By Sushil Kutty The only time Prime Minister Narendra Modi lost his equilibrium at the joint press conference with President Donald Trump was when a journalist asked Modi if “Adani” had come up for discussion in the talks with President Trump. Visibly disturbed, Prime Minister told the journalist tersely that when two countries held talks, […]
By T N Ashok WASHINGTON: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit the United States is more significant than ever at a time when the geo-political situation is fast changing, and new leaders take over in many countries. Modi’s scheduled meeting with US President Donald Trump on Thursday in White House offered positive results for the […]
By K Raveendran Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for greater emphasis on the Global South in the evolving world order shaped by artificial intelligence is a strategic proposition. With AI becoming the most critical technological force of the 21st century, it is imperative that developing nations, particularly those in the Global South, have a role […]
By Nitya Chakraborty Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be meeting the United States President Donald Trump in Washington on February 13. He is going straight to U.S. on a two-day visit after completing his engagement in France on Tuesday, including co-chairing the global AI summit along with the French President Emanuel Macron. For all practical […]
By Nantoo Banerjee With Indian Rupee (INR) dwindling almost daily against US Dollar (USD), it is good the Union Budget for 2025-26 has stopped repeating on making the Indian economy a $5-trillion GDP to become the world’s third largest by the end of this year or anytime too soon. The budget also provides no indication […]
By Nitya Chakraborty Exactly six months have passed since the installation of the interim government in Bangladesh on August 8, headed by Dr. Mohammad Yunus, three days after the ouster of the Awami League government led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Hasina, daughter of the founder of the present Bangladesh, the late Sheikh Mujibur […]

Gautam Adani’s son, Karan Adani, has garnered attention by opting for a wedding devoid of excessive display or lavish celebrations, marking a departure from the extravagant wedding culture that has become synonymous with India’s wealthiest families. The decision to hold a low-key ceremony, with an emphasis on family, tradition, and simplicity, stands in stark contrast to the usual grandeur associated with high-profile weddings in the nation’s elite […]

By Nitya Chakraborty The present euphoria among the BJP-led government ministers after the presentation of the 2025-26 budget in Parliament over the mega relief to the income tax payers of the country might be shared by the estimated one crore people in the country benefited due to the budget proposals. But in terms of its […]
By Nantoo Banerjee It would be wrong to underplay the impact of rising foreign disinvestments from the country’s secondary market on the economy and the very stability of Indian Rupee (INR). Both the domestic economy and INR have been constantly under pressure from large deficit trade balances year after year, external borrowings, loan servicing, very […]
VISHNU RAJA
RYO YAMADA
HITORI GOTOH
IKUYO KITA