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Wednesday, April 15, 2026

Economic normalisation could take longer: CEA Anantha Nageswaran

Washington, Apr 15 (PTI): India's top economic adviser on Wednesday cautioned about the impact of rising oil prices on the global economy and said normalisation could take longer. Addressing a conference organised by the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum here, Chief Economic Anantha Nageswaran said the impact of the global conflict may be felt in four broad areas – higher energy prices, supply disruptions in other commodities, rising logistics and insurance costs, and a decline in remittance flows. “So I think that we need to be more patient in the conflict cessation and the resumption of economic activity as per normal, that we may call it,” Nageswaran said, addressing the US-India Economic Forum 2026. He said there was a need to understand the range of uncertainty arising out of the conflict, particularly in South Asia and in general in the Asia-Pacific region. “It is not purely about the price of oil... it is about the commodities that matter,” he said. India's landed crude cost rose to about USD 113 per barrel in March, Nageswaran said. “The kind of challenges that India will face with respect to the global inflation and the external impact is something that needs to be watched,” he said. Nageswaran said remittances, particularly from the Gulf nations, could also come under pressure. The Chief Economic Adviser said despite these risks, India's fundamentals remain strong, citing sustained growth, moderate inflation and improving fiscal balances. Nageswaran said India has expanded its global engagement through new trade agreements such as with the UK, the European Union and the United States. He said these agreements would help cushion external shocks and strengthen India's role in global value chains. Nageswaran said capital expenditure has increased more than threefold in recent years. “If you look at the total number of highways, the length of highway kilometres, 10 times, the railway network, and if you look at the port handling capacity, and lastly, the amount of goods that India transports to inland waterways, is on the rise,” Nageswaran said. PTI SKU SCY SCY(This story is published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. No editing has been done in the headline or the body by ABP Live.)

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/economic-normalisation-could-take-longer-cea-anantha-nageswaran-1836736

TIME100 2026: Global Political Leaders Dominate As Trump, Pope Leo, Netanyahu Feature

TIME magazine on Wednesday unveiled its list of the ‘100 Most Influential People of 2026’, with a strong presence of political leaders shaping global discourse. Among those named were Pope Leo XIV, Donald Trump and Zohran Mamdani, alongside a host of other prominent figures from across the world. <h2>World Leaders Feature Prominently</h2> The list includes several key global leaders such as Benjamin Netanyahu, Marco Rubio, Mark Carney, Claudia Sheinbaum, Sanae Takaichi and Xi Jinping. Newly elected leaders from South Asia also found a place on the list, including Balen Shah and Tarique Rahman. <h2>Key US Figures Make The Cut</h2> Several senior US officials were also featured, reflecting their influence on domestic and global policy. These include Marco Rubio, Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, California Governor Gavin Newsom, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Joint Chiefs of Staff head Dan Caine and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. <h2>Indian-Origin Figures Across Sectors</h2> Beyond politics, the TIME100 list also highlights individuals driving influence across industries, including three figures of Indian origin. Among them is Sundar Pichai, whose leadership continues to shape global technology and innovation, particularly in artificial intelligence and digital ecosystems. Actor Ranbir Kapoor represents the entertainment industry, reflecting the expanding global reach of Indian cinema. His profile in TIME was written by Ayushmann Khurrana, who described him as an artist who becomes a legacy through his craft rather than chasing it. Chef and restaurateur Vikas Khanna also features on the list, recognised among global figures in fashion, visual, literary and culinary arts, alongside names such as Ralph Lauren and Victoria Beckham. <h2>A Snapshot Of Global Influence</h2> The TIME100 list remains a widely recognised benchmark of global influence, spotlighting individuals shaping conversations and driving impact across sectors. This year’s list underscores the dominance of political leadership in a year marked by global tensions, while also highlighting contributions from technology, entertainment and the arts. India’s presence, though limited in number, reflects its growing footprint across key global industries.

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/time100-2026-global-political-leaders-dominate-as-trump-pope-leo-netanyahu-feature-1836731

Iran’s War Fallout: Hundreds Of Thousands Lose Jobs As Economy Crumbles

This report was originally written in German. More than 93 million people in Iran are living in the shadow of a war that could flare up again at any moment. Many Iranians are now fearing the difficult days that lie ahead. After the failed peace talks between the United States and Iran in Pakistan, Washington began blockading Iranian ports and ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The move is intended to cut Iran's oil export revenues and to prevent Tehran from charging a toll for passage through the strategic sea route. The blockade also means that goods are no longer reaching Iranian ports. <h2>War hits working Iranians the hardest</h2> "The continuation of the war — whether at the military level or in the form of blockades and regional tensions — puts the greatest pressure on ordinary people, especially workers, teachers and wage earners," trade unionist Ismail Abdi wrote in response to an inquiry from DW. The teacher and human rights activist was a member of the executive board of the Iranian Teachers' Association when he came to the attention of Iranian authorities 11 years ago because of his commitment to defending teachers' rights. Accused of "propaganda against the political system," he spent several years in prison. After international pressure — particularly from trade unions around the world — he was eventually released. Since March 2025, he has been living in exile in Germany, where he continues his work for education rights and freedom of expression. "In recent weeks, we have received shocking reports about the suffering of the working class under wartime conditions in Iran," he said. "When factories, workshops or service projects are shut down or scaled back, contract workers, day laborers and those in informal employment are the first to suffer. This process weakens workers' bargaining power and pushes wages further toward an outright collapse." The war has had devastating consequences for Iran's economy, which has long been plagued by mismanagement, corruption and sanctions. Tehran has already put the war damage at the equivalent of around €229 billion (about $270 billion), according to a preliminary estimate Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohadscherani gave in an interview with Russia's state news agency RIA Novosti on April 14. However, the true extent of the damage to the country's largest industrial facilities, which serve as engines of the economy, is not yet fully known. <h2>Tens of thousands of day laborers sent home</h2> The Mobarakeh Steel Company in Isfahan was forced to halt operations entirely after a second US-Israeli attack. The US and Israel said the strikes had weakened Iran's military capabilities. Steel is a key raw material for the production of military goods such as missiles, drones and ships. At the same time, it plays a crucial role in civilian industries, including automotive supply chains, the production of household appliances, and the packaging and canning industry. Steel is also indispensable in the construction sector. The steel industry is considered one of the main driving forces of Iran's economy. According to the World Steel Association, Iran was among the world's 10 largest steel producers in 2025 — alongside countries such as China, the United States and Germany — exporting around 31.8 million tons of steel annually. Between March 2025 and January 2026, export revenues amounted to $860 million (€741 million). With production suspended, thousands of workers were sent home, but for how long remains unclear. At least 10,000 employees in the steel industry are day laborers. A production shutdown can also trigger a chain reaction, forcing dozens of other companies that depend on these facilities also to halt their operations. Attacks on petrochemical plants will also have massive repercussions on the labor market, says Umud Shokri, an energy strategist and senior visiting fellow at George Mason University. Strikes on major petrochemical hubs in Asaluyeh (South Pars), Mahshahr and Shiraz caused significant damage and brought numerous facilities to a standstill. In industrial centers such as Mahshahr, where more than 30,000 people are employed, many are now facing sudden job losses and wage cuts, Shokri wrote in response to an inquiry from DW. "The damage extends far beyond the facilities themselves, affecting supply chains, state revenues and people's livelihoods," he added. "Even under optimal conditions, assessments based on comparable industrial complexes suggest that restoring a key hub like Mahshahr could take around two years," he said. This would require improved access to foreign technology, capital, spare parts and technical know-how — conditions that are scarcely attainable under the current sanctions regime. <h2>Mass layoffs and falling wages</h2> Job losses in the industrial sector have already created widespread insecurity. On April 14, the Iranian Labour News Agency (ILNA) dismissed all of its journalists and shifted their employment to freelance contracts. Many other companies are also reported to have begun mass layoffs. One example is the digital services sector, including platforms such as Snapp, often described as the "Iranian Uber." Despite ongoing internet restrictions imposed by the authorities since the start of the war to prevent potential protests, such services continue to operate in the country. However, fewer people are on the move because of the war, and many can no longer afford to use them. "Due to internet restrictions alone, thousands of freelancers, programmers and content producers have lost their ability to work. They are now being pushed back into the traditional, already fragile labor market," said trade unionist Abdi. "In the short term, this situation leads to falling real incomes and growing poverty among workers. In the long term, there is a risk of an exploited, less skilled and more dependent society emerging." Trade unionist Ismail Abdi has not given up on the dream of political change in Iran. But he warns that the war is primarily leading to rising poverty and increasing insecurity for disadvantaged segments of the population. "This war must be ended before its human and social costs become irreversible," he said. However, little attention seems to be paid to the Iranian population, neither by the leadership of the Islamic Republic, whose priority is staying in power, nor by the US president, despite his promises of support. From the outbreak of the war on February 28 until April 8, when a fragile ceasefire was agreed, 3,636 people were killed in Iran, according to the US‑based human rights organization HRANA. Of those, 1,701 were civilians, including at least 254 children. Disclaimer: This report first appeared on Deutsche Welle, and has been republished on ABP Live as part of a special arrangement. Apart from the headline, no changes have been made in the report by ABP Live.

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/iran-s-war-fallout-hundreds-of-thousands-lose-jobs-as-economy-crumbles-1836726

Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Trump Says Iran War ‘Very Close To Over’; Claims Tehran Wants Deal, Hints At Fresh Talks

Trump On Iran War: U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that the ongoing confrontation with Iran may be nearing its conclusion, even as military and diplomatic efforts continue in parallel. Speaking during an appearance on Fox News, Trump strongly defended Washington’s intervention, framing it as a necessary move to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. <h3>Trump Signals Possible Endgame In Iran Standoff</h3> Trump said, “I think it’s almost over.” In a segment aired by the network, Trump remarked, “I see it as very close to being finished.” The president argued that failing to act would have had far-reaching consequences for global power dynamics. He said that if he hadn't stepped in then Iran which already has a nuclear arm would have changed the balance of power completely. He said, “You don’t want to be in a position where you’re forced to bow to them because of that.” <h3>Cautious Optimism Amid Ongoing Military Pressure</h3> Despite his optimistic tone, Trump acknowledged that the situation remains unresolved. He emphasized that while progress has been made, the United States is not yet ready to disengage from the conflict. “If we pulled out today, it would take them twenty years to rebuild. We’re not done yet,” he adding that they were desperate to make a deal. His remarks suggest a strategy that combines sustained pressure with openness to negotiations, as Washington seeks to ensure long-term limits on Iran’s nuclear capabilities. <h3>Backchannel Talks Continue Without Breakthrough</h3> Alongside the military dimension, diplomatic efforts are ongoing. Vice President JD Vance and other senior U.S. officials held discussions with Iranian representatives in Pakistan over the weekend. While the talks did not yield a significant breakthrough, they are expected to continue, with Trump hinting in remarks to The New York Post that another round could take place soon. These negotiations follow earlier attempts that faltered due to disagreements over the scope and limits of Iran’s nuclear programme, highlighting the complexity of reaching a lasting agreement. ALSO READ: <a title="Trump Says Pakistan Likely To Host US-Iran Talks; Islamabad, Istanbul Venues On Table" href="https://ift.tt/N9QOMFP" target="_self">Trump Says Pakistan Likely To Host US-Iran Talks; Islamabad, Istanbul Venues On Table</a>

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/trump-on-iran-war-live-updates-says-iran-war-close-to-over-claims-tehran-wants-deal-hints-at-fresh-talks-1836511

California Assembly adopts resolution on Vaisakhi, US lawmakers extend greetings

Washington, Apr 15 (PTI): California Assembly has adopted a resolution recognising Vaisakhi as one of the most significant days for Sikh Americans and encouraging people of the state to take part in its celebration. The resolution, moved by California Assembly member Jasmeet Kaur Bains, received support from 76 members of the 80-member House and adopted on Monday, on the eve of Vaisakhi. “To Sikh communities throughout California celebrating Vaisakhi, Jen and I send our best wishes for a joyful new year and abundant spring harvest. Vaisakhi diyan lakh lakh vadhaiyan, California,” California Governor Gavin Newsom said in a post on X. “Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, That the Assembly recognises this year’s Vaisakhi celebration on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, and encourages Californians to take part in this joyous day of celebration; and be it further. “Resolved, That the Assembly observes Vaisakhi as one of the most significant days for Sikh Americans and Sikh history and in observance of Vaisakhi, expresses its deepest respect for all who observe and celebrate Vaisakhi with South Asian Americans and the Indian diaspora throughout the world on this significant occasion; and be it further,” the resolution adopted by the California Assembly read. Several lawmakers – senators and congressmen – extended greetings to the Sikh community in the US. “Happy Vaisakhi! Today Sikh communities worldwide celebrate the 1699 founding of the Khalsa — a vibrant tradition of equality, selfless service, and courage. Wishing everyone celebrating a day filled with joy and chardi kala,” Senator Chuck Schumer said in a post on X. “Sikhs have been an integral part of America’s fabric for more than 125 years and have contributed to our own community in ways that have had impacts across the country. Today, I wish our Sikh American neighbors and all those who celebrate a very Happy #Vaisakhi,” Lizzie Fletcher, Congresswoman from Texas said. “Wishing all who celebrate a very joyful #Vaisakhi as you mark a season of renewal, abundance, and faith. May this day honor the enduring strength of community and the values of service, resilience, and unity that bring us together,” Congressman Brad Sherman from California said. “To Sikh Americans in MD-08 and all those celebrating around the world: happy Vaisakhi. May you rejoice during this harvest festival with family and friends,” Jamie Raskin, Congressman from Maryland, said. “Armenians worldwide wish Happy #Baisakhi / #Vaisakhi to our Sikh friends and all who celebrate. May the spirit of the Khalsa - courage, justice, equality, and service - continue to inspire us as we stand together in defense of human rights and dignity for all,” Armenian National Committee of America said in a post on X. “California Assembly passes HR 100 recognizing Vaisakhi, with a massive 76 sponsors & co-sponsors, a powerful bipartisan show of support for the Sikh American and Hindu American community and their contributions to the state. A historic moment for representation, recognition, and respect,” Hindu American Foundation said in a post on X. PTI SKU SKY SKY(This story is published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. No editing has been done in the headline or the body by ABP Live.)

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/california-assembly-adopts-resolution-on-vaisakhi-us-lawmakers-extend-greetings-1836507

Trump Says Pakistan Likely To Host US-Iran Talks; Islamabad, Istanbul Venues On Table

US President Donald Trump has indicated that a second round of talks with Iran could take place in Islamabad within days, even as diplomatic channels remain open for an alternative venue in Istanbul. While there has been no official confirmation from Iranian authorities, sources suggest negotiations are progressing with several key sticking points now considered “bridgeable”. The discussions, which follow an inconclusive first round over the weekend, are expected to focus on nuclear enrichment limits, the future of the Strait of Hormuz, and the handling of Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. <h2>Venues And Diplomatic Signals</h2> Two locations-Islamabad and Istanbul-are currently under consideration for the next round of negotiations. Trump, speaking in a phone interview with the New York Post, suggested talks could resume in Pakistan “over the next two days”. He later indicated a stronger preference for Islamabad, praising Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir and signalling confidence in the setting. The shift marks a departure from earlier suggestions that Europe would host the follow-up meeting. Iranian officials, however, have yet to publicly confirm the venue or timeline, keeping the diplomatic process fluid. <h2>Key Issues Under Negotiation</h2> Among the central issues is Iran’s uranium enrichment programme. Reports suggest the US is seeking a 20-year limit, while Iran has proposed a shorter five-year timeframe. Despite the gap, sources indicate a compromise may be achievable. Another critical area is the future management of the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically vital waterway. Iran’s new leadership has hinted at changes in how the strait will be governed, raising broader geopolitical implications. The fate of Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium-estimated at over 450 kg-is also under discussion. While US officials believe the material may be buried at a damaged nuclear site, Iranian authorities have suggested it could be removed and diluted to below 3 per cent enrichment. The renewed talks come amid cautious optimism that both sides are willing to narrow differences, even as no formal agreement has yet been reached.

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/us-iran-war-news-live-trump-says-pakistan-likely-to-host-us-iran-talks-islamabad-istanbul-venues-on-table-1836498

Monday, April 13, 2026

Pakistan Media Watchdog Pulls Up News Channel For Running ‘Indian Content’ During Asha Bhosle Death Coverage

Pakistan's media watchdog on Monday issued a show-cause notice to a leading news channel for running "Indian content" while broadcasting the news about the death of legendary singer Asha Bhosle. A ban on Indian content in Pakistan has been in place since 2018. The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) issued the show-cause notice to GeoNews seeking an explanation as to why it aired Indian content along with the news of Bhosle's death. The leading news channel is considered close to the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz government and the military establishment. ALSO READ| <a href="https://ift.tt/p3jqg1t" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ranveer Singh And Mohammed Siraj Comfort Zanai Bhosle At Asha Bhosle’s Funeral | Watch Viral Videos</a> Bhosle passed away on Sunday due to multi-organ failure. She was 92. "It has always been customary to revisit and celebrate the work of iconic artists when reporting on them. In fact, for an artist of Asha Bhosle's stature, we should have shared even more of her timeless and memorable songs than we did. Yet, Pakistan's electronic media regulator, PEMRA, has chosen to restrict this,” Azhar Abbas, the Managing Director of GeoNews, said in a post on X. Abbas said that art, like knowledge, is a shared heritage of humanity, and it should not be confined by borders. "Asha Bhosle herself admired Pakistan’s legendary singer Noor Jahan, whom she fondly called her “elder sister.” She collaborated with Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and brought to life the poetry of great Urdu poets like Nasir Kazmi. "In times of war and conflict, art and artists should not become casualties. Intellectuals, musicians, and creators are often the very voices that stand against hatred and division, and the ones who bring people closer together," he added. ALSO READ| <a href="https://ift.tt/CafJASW" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Who Survives Asha Bhosle? Son Anand, Granddaughter Zanai And Siblings Meena, Usha, Hridaynath</a> The PEMRA said GeoNews broadcast of Indian songs and visuals from Indian films while airing news of Bhosle’s death is a wilful defiance of the judgment of the Supreme Court of Pakistan that banned the airing of Indian content. In the notice, it said that GeoNews violated Rule 15(1) of the PEMRA Rules, 2009, Regulation 18 1 (g) of the PEMRA (Television Broadcast Station Operations) Regulations 2012, and Clause 4(10), 5, 17, 20 and 24 of the Electronic Media (Programmes and Advertisements) Code of Conduct 2015. The CEO of M/s Independent Media Corporation (Geo News) has been summoned on April 27 and directed to explain in writing within 14 days as to why legal action, including inter alia imposition of fine, suspension and revocation of licence under Section 26, Section 29A and other enabling provisions of PEMRA Ordinance, 2002 as amended by PEMRA (Amendment) Act, 2023 should not be initiated. Pakistan People's Party Senator Sherry Rehman lambasted PEMRA, saying, "Please, let’s not lose all perspective here, PEMRA and start policing cultural transitions."  (Disclaimer: This report has been published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. Apart from the headline, no editing has been done in the copy by ABP Live.)

source https://news.abplive.com/entertainment/pakistan-media-watchdog-pulls-up-news-channel-for-running-indian-content-during-asha-bhosle-death-coverage-1836310