The Presidency Chartered Bank of Bombay on 1 Rampart Row was founded in 1840 and was one of three presidency banks that were the precursors of the State Bank of India (1955) Courtesy: State Bank of India
3 May 2018

Indian banking’s chequered history

The history of modern Indian banking in the 19th century is full of examples of lopsided loan portfolios, favouring a few individuals and businesses, which is not very different from today’s world of financial fraud and manipulation of the system for personal gain. The past still holds many lessons

S400 Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
3 May 2018

Indian defence: collateral damage of Russia sanctions

American sanctions on Russian defence companies may end up hurting an innocent bystander: India's defence sector. In particular, they could threaten Indian military procurement, and also may complicate India’s attempts to produce more of its own defence hardware. India needs to study the issue closely to prepare for what may come

sa monitor Courtesy:
29 April 2018

FICCI report seeks BIMSTEC rejuvenation

“[BIMSTEC] is deepening regional transport connectivity, facilitating cross-border trade, investment and tourism, protecting the environment and promoting sustainable use of shared natural resources in the BIMSTEC economies centred around the Bay of Bengal, said the report by a Core Group Read more

Energy Intelligence logo Courtesy:
27 April 2018

India’s Iran Conundrum

“It will be the jump in crude prices that will trouble India more,” said Amit Bhandari, Fellow, Energy & Environment Studies, Gateway House, to Rakesh Sharma at Energy Intelligence, elucidating upon the possible implications for India if the Iran Deal Read more

15246127726_d994aaef06_o Courtesy: MEA/Flickr
26 April 2018

Modi, Xi take charge

The leaders of India and China have decided not to leave the bilateral relationship to bureaucrats or ministers, but instead handle it themselves at the very top. The April 27-28 meeting promises to be a game-changer as Xi Jinping has accepted the need to improve ties with India as a priority

(in the pic - Chinese President Xi Jinping addressing FOCAC summit). President Jacob Zuma co-chairs the FOCAC Summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping - Sandton, Johannesburg. 04/12/2015, Elmond Jiyane, GCIS Courtesy: GovernmentZA/ Flickr
26 April 2018

The race to be Africa’s best partner

China’s judicious deployment of economic diplomacy—in sectors ranging from infrastructure and agriculture to skill development--has enabled it to develop relations with several African countries. India, Africa’s oldest partner, which is diversifying its own relationship, can replicate parts of China’s approach

1T3A1792 Courtesy: Gateway House
26 April 2018

“An open economy facilitates and connects”

There is expertise available, sometimes in small countries, and is in demand worldwide. Protectionism will affect each member of the global community; it will put brakes on projections for India’s growth. The challenges it presents need to be resolved so that everybody benefits, said Gen. (Dr.) V.K. Singh