Responding to Business Today TV’s Karishma Asoodani at the 2026 Spring Meetings, IMF Fiscal Affairs Director Rodrigo Valdés said strong growth makes economies more resilient. He emphasized India’s growth is structural, , and despite risks from subsidies, fertilizers, and fuel prices, its debt-to-GDP remains manageable
A major political confrontation is unfolding as Parliament convenes for a special three-day session to debate the Women’s Reservation Bill. The proposed legislation seeks to introduce a 33 per cent quota for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies from the 2029 general elections, marking a potentially transformative shift in India’s political landscape. However, the government’s move to link the implementation of the quota with delimitation has triggered sharp opposition. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi has termed the bill a historic step towards women-led development, Opposition leaders, including Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and Sonia Gandhi, have raised serious concerns, calling the delimitation aspect a threat to the constitutional balance. Regional parties like the Samajwadi Party are also demanding a quota within the quota for OBC women. With competing narratives, high political stakes, and questions over representation and federal balance, this debate goes beyond reservation — it could redefine India’s electoral map for decades to come.
West Asia conflict has disrupted global energy flows, putting India’s crude, LNG and LPG imports under pressure. As supply routes tighten, policymakers are under strain to keep the economy running smoothly. This report highlights India’s stalled coal gasification mission, once projected to reduce import dependence and save forex but still largely unutilised despite rising allocations. While China has built the world’s largest gasification ecosystem, India’s progress remains slow. The green hydrogen mission is also lagging targets. With coal still powering over half of India’s energy needs, the gap between ambition and execution in energy security is now under sharp focus.
At the IMF Spring Meetings 2026, Financial Counsellor Tobias Adrian in a response to Business Today TV's Karishma Asoodani's question highlighted that lower-income, import-dependent Asian economies face the highest risks from worsening global conditions. While APAC financial markets remain deep and resilient, he stressed the need for stable macro policies and protection against rising food and energy prices.
The battle for Tamil Nadu has escalated into a war of identity and pride. M. K. Stalin has launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party and AIADMK, alleging attempts to rename the state as “Dakshina Pradesh” and impose cultural changes. The row intensified after old videos linked to Naveen Patnaik’s aide V. K. Pandian resurfaced, with the DMK and Indian National Congress accusing BJP of insulting Tamils. With language, identity, and power at stake—this election is no longer just political, it’s deeply personal.
The crisis in the Strait of Hormuz intensifies as tensions between the United States and Iran escalate into a dangerous blockade standoff. Nearly 50 days into the West Asia conflict, this crucial oil shipping route has become the epicentre of a high-stakes power play. Iran tightens control over key shipping lanes, pushing global crude prices higher, while the US responds with naval restrictions on Iran-bound vessels. Donald Trump defends the move, calling it necessary to counter “global blackmail.” Meanwhile, nuclear negotiations remain deadlocked, with both sides holding firm on their demands. As red lines harden, the Hormuz crisis threatens global energy security, raising fears of a wider escalation with far-reaching economic consequences.
The crisis at the Strait of Hormuz deepens as China steps into focus. While the United States tightens its blockade on Iran, Beijing has begun sharpening its tone. Dong Jun has asserted China’s right to continue trade through Hormuz, even as global tensions rise. At the same time, Xi Jinping is engaging world leaders, pushing for stability. With accusations from Donald Trump and China’s firm denial, the standoff is widening. Is this a cautious balancing act—or the start of a bigger global confrontation?
Tensions rise in Noida as workers take to the streets over low wages, with protests in Sector 80 turning violent for the second straight day. Clashes with police, stone-pelting, and earlier incidents of arson have shaken the city. Even domestic workers from high-rises have joined the agitation, demanding fair pay. The Uttar Pradesh Government has announced a ₹3,000 wage hike, while Yogi Adityanath warns of possible organised elements behind the unrest. Meanwhile, Akhilesh Yadav has criticised the government. Amid chaos and politics, the workers say their fight is far from over.
In this exclusive Business Today podcast, Aabha Bakaya speaks to Fabindia MD William Bissell on how the brand navigated the post-COVID reset. From managing excess inventory to adapting to rapidly changing consumer behavior, Fabindia reworked its strategy to stay relevant. Bissell highlights how digital and quick commerce platforms like Blinkit and Instamart transformed shopping habits almost overnight. To counter this, Fabindia doubled down on experiential retail—adding cafes, bespoke services, and community-driven spaces to bring customers back to stores. At the same time, the brand is aggressively exploring quick commerce for select categories. Watch how Fabindia is balancing offline strength with online disruption in India’s evolving retail landscape.
A vow, a turban, and a political journey come full circle. Samrat Choudhary, who once pledged to remove his turban only after “dethroning” Nitish Kumar, now steps in as Bihar’s new Chief Minister. From his early days in the Rashtriya Janata Dal to his rise in the Bharatiya Janata Party, his journey reflects strategy, shifts, and ambition. Rooted in Bihar’s complex caste and political landscape, his elevation marks a new chapter. From a symbolic turban to the seat of power—can he now deliver on governance and legacy?
From slow traffic to seamless speed—the journey between Delhi and Dehradun is transforming. Is the new expressway really a game changer? An India Today ground report puts it to the test—first taking the old route from Delhi to Dehradun, navigating choke points and delays through Muzaffarnagar. Then, after inauguration by PM Narendra Modi, the return journey unfolds on the brand-new expressway. Featuring modern infrastructure like elevated wildlife corridors and smooth connectivity, the drive is now faster, safer, and uninterrupted. From six exhausting hours to just around two and a half—this is not just a road, but a new way forward.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance has flagged concerns over fraud in the H1-B visa system while acknowledging the positive contributions of immigrants. Responding to a question on long green card wait times, he said reforms are needed but stressed that citizenship comes with responsibility. Vance said individuals must prioritise the interests of the United States over their country of origin. He highlighted that the system works best when everyone identifies as American first. His remarks come amid ongoing debates over immigration policy, visa backlogs, and concerns among Indian-origin families facing long waits for permanent residency.
In Bihar, an era quietly draws to a close. Nitish Kumar—a leader who reshaped the state’s identity—steps aside after decades in public life. From the JP Movement to becoming “Sushasan Babu,” his journey brought stability, dignity, and reforms—especially for women and backward communities. Now, a new chapter begins with Samrat Choudhary taking charge, marking the BJP’s historic moment in the state. But this transition is more than politics—it’s about legacy. Can a new leadership carry forward what Nitish Kumar built over decades?
India’s largest IT services company, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), is at the center of a major controversy after multiple employees were arrested in Nashik over serious allegations. Several women staff members have accused team leaders of sexual harassment, molestation, and attempts at religious conversion within the workplace. According to police, FIRs have been filed with charges of rape, molestation, and hurting religious sentiments. The incidents allegedly took place over a period of two to three years, with victims claiming that earlier complaints to HR went unaddressed. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the matter further. TCS has termed the allegations “gravely concerning” and assured full cooperation with authorities, reiterating its zero-tolerance policy. Political leaders have also weighed in, with allegations of “corporate jihad” and demanding accountability. As investigations continue, more details are expected to emerge.
A posh residential society in Noida’s Sector 121 witnessed dramatic scenes as domestic helpers and cleaning staff staged a fierce protest over wages, leading to stone pelting and vandalism. The unrest comes close on the heels of factory worker protests across the city, intensifying the spotlight on labour conditions. While the Uttar Pradesh government under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced an interim increase in minimum wages for unskilled, semi-skilled and skilled workers, the benefits largely apply to industrial labour, leaving domestic workers outside the formal framework. For many househelps working in high-rise apartments, there is still no access to EPF, health insurance or structured social security. Meanwhile, gig platforms such as Urban Company and Pronto are attempting to formalise the sector, offering training, digital payments and flexible earning opportunities. However, this shift also brings new pressures, including dependence on customer ratings and algorithm-driven visibility, which can directly impact income. The Noida protest highlights a deeper issue — the gap between policy and reality for millions of domestic workers. As India moves towards implementing new labour codes that promise social security for gig and platform workers, questions remain over awareness, accessibility and execution. With workers caught between informal employment and the demands of platform-based work, the larger debate continues: when will better pay truly translate into dignity, protection and security?
At the IMF Spring Meetings 2026, Chief Economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas while unveiling the world economic outlook responds to a question to Business Today TV’s Karishma Asoodani on the rising global risks and shrinking fiscal space. He shares that while emerging economies face pressure, India stands out for its resilience, supported by stronger macro fundamentals. Policymakers, he notes, must adopt targeted measures to navigate vulnerabilities and sustain growth amid ongoing global uncertainty.
In this exclusive Business Today podcast, Aabha Bakaya speaks with Fabindia MD William Bissell on the brand’s remarkable evolution. From an export-focused business supporting rural artisans to becoming one of India’s most loved lifestyle brands, Fabindia has constantly adapted with changing consumer trends. Bissell explains how the company balanced purpose with profitability, scaled operations, and tapped into India’s growing middle class post-1991 reforms. He also reveals Fabindia’s latest pivot as it prepares for the next phase of growth. Watch to understand how legacy brands stay relevant, build identity, and expand into a 360-degree lifestyle ecosystem in a rapidly evolving market like India.
The BJP has unveiled its manifesto for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, with a strong focus on welfare and direct benefit schemes. Party president JP Nadda announced key promises including ₹2,000 monthly assistance for women heads of families and three free LPG cylinders annually. The manifesto also proposes financial support for farmers through an enhanced PM-Kisan scheme and a one-time ₹10,000 aid for households. Emphasising women’s safety, the party promised fast-track courts and zero-FIR mechanisms. It also outlined plans to tackle drug abuse and preserve cultural traditions, positioning the document as a roadmap for development and governance in the state.
The International Energy Agency has issued a stark warning about the scale of the ongoing global energy crisis, calling it the most severe in history. IEA Chief Fatih Birol said no country is immune as disruptions hit oil, gas and key commodities like fertilizers and petrochemicals. He cautioned that April could be worse than March due to supply constraints and halted cargo loadings. Significant damage to energy infrastructure, including oil fields and refineries, has further deepened the crisis. The IEA stressed the need for coordinated global action, warning that prolonged disruptions could worsen economic stress, fuel inflation and impact energy security worldwide.
As West Bengal heads to polls, a troubling question rises—who gets to vote? Over 60 lakh objections after voter list revisions have left more than 34 lakh people appealing for their names to be restored. With voting set for April 23, the Supreme Court of India has acknowledged concerns, with judges stressing that the right to vote is both constitutional and deeply personal. Amid political pressure from leaders like Kalyan Banerjee, uncertainty looms large. As tribunals begin hearings, the stakes go beyond politics—this is a battle over the very right to choose.
Global institutions including the IMF, World Bank and IEA have issued a strong warning against energy hoarding and export restrictions, saying such measures could worsen supply imbalances and deepen the ongoing crisis. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva emphasized that countries must “do no harm” and avoid policies that disrupt global flows. She stressed that coordinated action among nations is key to stabilizing markets and supporting vulnerable economies. While geopolitical tensions remain a concern, global bodies say there is still time for dialogue and resolution, urging countries to work together to ensure energy security and maintain market stability.
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