Must ReadExternal Affairs Minister Jaishankar hits out at ‘unilateral’ sanctions days before expiry of U.S.’ Russian oil waiver
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, at the [BRICS] Foreign Ministers meeting, criticized 'unilateral' non-UN sanctions, specifically referencing those imposed by the US, as the US waiver allowing India to import Russian oil nears expiration.
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ImportantCooling doctrine: On India’s response to extreme heat
The editorial argues that India's current response to extreme heat, primarily managed by the [National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)] through Heat Action Plans (HAPs), is inadequate and largely symbolic. It calls for a paradigm shift from short-term palliative measures to a comprehensive 'national cooling doctrine' that treats safe indoor temperatures as a public health right and addresses the structural vulnerabilities of the workforce.
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ImportantThe Iran war, India’s strategic autonomy challenges
The escalating conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran, coupled with renewed 'America First' economic and military unilateralism under a hypothetical Donald Trump presidency, severely challenges India's strategy of 'Strategic Autonomy'. While India recently signed significant defence and trade deals with European nations (like France and the EU) to counter US pressure and diversify partnerships, the editorial argues these moves may be insufficient, as Europe often ultimately aligns with Washington during geopolitical crises.
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Must ReadBursting at the seams: On the rise in inflation
Retail inflation in India hit a 13-month high of 3.48% in April 2026, driven by rising food prices and anticipated increases in retail fuel costs due to geopolitical tensions. Wholesale inflation has surged to an 8.3% 42-month high, creating a significant divergence between retail and wholesale price indices, indicating severe upstream price pressures that producers are currently absorbing but will likely pass on to consumers soon.
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ImportantIndia can play ‘greater role’ for peace in West Asia, says Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi
During a [BRICS] conclave in New Delhi, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called for India to play a "constructive role" in meditating peace in West Asia. He emphasized a negotiated settlement, citing a complex situation in the [Strait of Hormuz] and ongoing trust issues in negotiations with the United States.
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