The Press Editor

New Delhi: Escalating tensions in the Middle East have raised concerns about global energy and supply chains. India, which relies heavily on imports for oil, gas, and fertiliser, also faces the risk of potential supply disruptions. This raises the question of how India will meet its energy and fertiliser needs if the situation worsens. In light of this risk, the government has accelerated several measures, including alternative supplies, strategic reserves, and new trade agreements, to ensure that the country's needs are not affected. India in talks with alternative energy suppliers Qatar remains an important partner for India, supplying 60 million…

New Delhi: Despite tough economic sanctions and a weakening currency, Iran continues to purchase machinery, fuel, and military equipment internationally. Analysts say a major reason behind this is bitcoin mining, which has given Iran an alternative payment network outside the traditional banking system. Iran legalised bitcoin mining in 2019. At that time, it was presented as an economic experiment. But now, experts say, it has gradually transformed into a payment network that circumvents sanctions. SWIFT transfers not required Bitcoins generated through mining can be transferred directly to government-controlled wallets and then used for payments abroad. This allows Iran to avoid…

Mumbai: The Devendra Fadnavis-led Mahayuti government in Maharashtra is set to present the state's annual budget today. Ahead of this, the pre-budget Economic Survey 2025-26 flagged the significant gap between proposed investments and actual project implementation, even as the state economy continues to show robust growth. According to the survey, the state's public debt will rise to Rs 9.32 lakh crore in 2025-26, while the state has projected a strong economic growth of 7.9 per cent, much higher than national estimates. Amid this, there are also talks about whether the government will discontinue the "Ladki Bahin Yojana"? It is reported…