Author: Rasmita Jena

  • U.S. Consumer Spending Drops: Impact on Interest Rates and Economy

    U.S. Consumer Spending Drops: Impact on Interest Rates and Economy

    In January, U.S. consumer spending took an unexpected dip, which might make it harder for the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates just yet. Consumer spending, a big part of the U.S. economy, fell by 0.2% last month after a big rise of 0.8% in December, according to the U.S. government’s report. Economists had thought spending would increase by 0.1%, but the actual results were different.

    The drop in spending could be due to a few reasons. People may have already bought what they needed in December, when many were worried about higher prices from tariffs. Additionally, cold weather and snowstorms across the country, as well as wildfires in places like Los Angeles, probably hurt shopping. The unusual weather also slowed down construction jobs.

    Experts think that this news suggests the economy may grow slower at the beginning of the year, with predictions mostly below a 2% growth rate. Last quarter, the economy grew by 2.3%.

    Problems have also arisen from policies from President Trump, like tariffs and big budget cuts, leading to job losses for many federal workers. In his first month, Trump put tariffs on goods from China and said new tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada would begin soon. Other tariffs on steel, aluminum, and cars are also coming soon.

    Confidence among businesses and consumers is falling due to worries about these tariffs, which could increase costs for everyone. People believe prices will rise over the next year, and recent data shows that the costs of living (the PCE price index) increased by 0.3% in January. Over the past year, prices rose by 2.5%. If you take out food and energy prices, the core inflation rate was 2.6%.

    The Federal Reserve is keeping an eye on these price measures for their target of 2% inflation. Financial markets think the Fed might start to cut interest rates in June. Right now, their interest rate is between 4.25% and 4.50%, having decreased by a total of 1% since last September. Recent discussions have shown concerns about rising inflation due to Trump’s policies. Earlier, the Fed raised rates sharply in 2022 and 2023 to keep inflation in check.

  • PM Modi Celebrates 25 Years of Jahan-e-Khusrau: A Cultural Milestone!

    PM Modi Celebrates 25 Years of Jahan-e-Khusrau: A Cultural Milestone!

    Prime Minister Modi celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Jahan-e-Khusrau program in Delhi on Friday. This event is all about Sufi music and culture, and he praised how it has touched people’s hearts. “These events are important for our culture and arts and bring relief to our minds. Over 25 years, Jahan-e-Khusrau has found a special place in the hearts of many, which is its biggest achievement,” he stated.

    PM Modi stressed the importance of the Sufi tradition in shaping India’s culture. He honored Sufi saints for their ability to connect different religions and beliefs. “Sufi saints read the Quran and listened to the Vedas, showing the blend of different faiths in India,” he explained.

    With Ramzan approaching, PM Modi sent warm wishes to everyone and spoke about the spirit of togetherness that the month brings. He also acknowledged the efforts of Aga Khan for his work in making Sunder Nursery beautiful, where this event took place. He said, “His contributions have brought blessings for many artists.”

    The Jahan-e-Khusrau program, named after the famous Sufi poet Amir Khusro, is one of India’s biggest cultural events. It brings together various voices to celebrate music, poetry, and spirituality. After 25 years, this event continues to enrich India’s culture and unite people through their love for art and traditions.

  • Amit Shah’s Key Directions to Improve Safety and Traffic in Delhi

    Amit Shah’s Key Directions to Improve Safety and Traffic in Delhi

    On Friday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah told Delhi Police to make fighting interstate gangs their top job. He asked them to be tough and serious about this issue during a big security meeting in Delhi. The meeting included Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and other important officials.

    Shah said police should work hard to break up drug trafficking networks. He emphasized that they need to tackle the drug problem straight away and make sure no one can get away with it.

    He also raised concerns about illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and Rohingya people. Shah said it is vital for national security to take strict action against those who help these immigrants enter and live in India. He insisted that these unauthorized individuals must be found and sent back to their countries.

    Amit Shah asked the police to help solve traffic jams in the city. He told police officers to visit local areas, listen to people’s complaints, and work on quick solutions to ensure smooth traffic.

    Additionally, he told the Delhi government to prepare a plan to handle waterlogging issues during monsoon. He also mentioned that from now on, permission from Delhi Police will not be necessary for construction projects. Lastly, he encouraged the Delhi government to hire special prosecutors to speed up cases from the 2020 riots.

  • Indore Students Expelled After Hostage Incident Over Holi Celebration

    Indore Students Expelled After Hostage Incident Over Holi Celebration

    Four student leaders from the Government Holkar Science College in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, have been suspended after they held around 150 staff members hostage. This happened because the college denied their request to celebrate a Holi festival. The students were planning an event called “Holkar Ka Holi Fest” on March 7, which included DJ performances and a fun water dance, for which they wanted to charge an entry fee of ₹150.

    The college administration turned down their request for the event, but the students did not listen. They put up posters around the campus promoting the festival on February 23, even though they hadn’t received permission from the principal. After the posters were taken down by college authorities, the students protested, and on February 24, they closed the door of Yashwant Hall from the outside and cut off the power.

    During this protest, around 150 people, including female professors, were trapped for about 30 minutes. The principal, Anamika Jain, said an investigation found the four students guilty of serious misbehavior. As a result, they were expelled and told to collect their transfer certificates. The college, which was founded in 1891 by the Holkar rulers of Indore, is currently under investigation by the district administration.

  • Bombing at Pakistan’s Jihad School Leaves 4 Dead, Including Leader

    Bombing at Pakistan’s Jihad School Leaves 4 Dead, Including Leader

    A suicide bombing at a religious school in Pakistan, known as the “University of Jihad,” killed four people on Friday. The blast happened during Friday prayers when many people gathered at the school in Akora Khattak, which is about 60 kilometers east of Peshawar. Among those who lost their lives was Hamid ul Haq, the head of the school.

    Police chief Abdul Rasheed confirmed that Hamid ul Haq was likely the target of the attack. Thirteen others were injured in the explosion. The bomb went off in the front row, where many people were preparing to pray.

    The school is home to around 4,000 students who receive free food, clothing, and education. It is known for teaching a strong and fierce interpretation of Islam and has produced many fighters for the Taliban. Notable figures like Mullah Omar and Jalaluddin Haqqani, who led violent groups, once studied there.

    The school has been at the center of militant activity for years, training many young people who then engage in conflicts in Afghanistan and beyond. Instead of shutting down these schools, the Pakistani government has generally allowed them to continue operating, largely because of their ties to various political parties.

    Since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in August 2021, violence has increased in border areas with Pakistan. Last year was especially deadly in Pakistan, with over 1,600 people killed in attacks. The Pakistani government blames Afghan leaders for not taking action against militants who launch attacks from Afghan soil, a claim that the Taliban government denies.

  • India’s Defense Manufacturing: A New Era of Self-Reliance

    India’s Defense Manufacturing: A New Era of Self-Reliance

    India is stepping up its defense manufacturing skills, focusing on building its own defense systems instead of buying from other countries. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is making this clear. Air Chief Marshal A P Singh recently said that even if home-made systems might not be the best in the world, they are still better for India. He stated that if a local system can perform at 85% or 90% of what is available globally, then the IAF will choose it. This is important for India to stop relying on foreign imports.

    Creating these systems is not something that can happen overnight; it takes time and support. Singh said, “The Indian Air Force is fully committed to any research and development project to help in this area.”

    Boosting Aircraft Production: India needs to produce more military aircraft because many are getting old. Singh stressed that producing at least 35-40 new airplanes each year is necessary. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) plans to build 24 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A jets yearly. Additionally, if private companies help, the total output could reach around 30-40 aircraft per year.

    Prepared for Long Wars: To handle a long fight, India needs good stockpiles and the ability to quickly make supplies. Singh mentioned that India must depend on a strong local industry to provide the necessary weapons during extended conflicts.

    Deepening Ties with France: India is also working on strengthening military ties with France. General Upendra Dwivedi, the Army Chief, recently spoke at a French military college. He discussed new security challenges and the need for countries to work together for peace and safety.

    Honoring India’s Military History: Earlier, General Dwivedi paid tribute to Indian soldiers who fought in World War I by laying a wreath at the Indian War Memorial in France. This act serves as a reminder of India’s contributions to global peace.

    Adopting Modern Warfare Technologies: The IAF is keeping up with technology in modern fighting, using automation and artificial intelligence (AI). Singh pointed out that many systems are being automated, making work faster and more efficient.

    General Dwivedi also saw live military demonstrations in France, showcasing new vehicles and technologies. His visit highlighted India’s growing military collaborations and commitment to making its defense industry self-reliant.

    India is steadily moving towards achieving self-reliance in defense while enhancing its role on the global stage.

  • Review: Suzhal – The Vortex Season 2 – A Mixed Bag of Intrigue

    Review: Suzhal – The Vortex Season 2 – A Mixed Bag of Intrigue

    In 2022, directors Pushkar and Gayatri created the web series Suzhal – The Vortex, which was exciting and unique for Tamil shows on OTT platforms. They received much praise, and now they are back with Season 2!

    The Story:
    As Season 2 starts, we find Nandini (played by Aishwarya Rajesh) in jail. She is accused of killing her sister’s abuser with a gun that belongs to SI Sakkarai (Kathir). Nandini’s lawyer, Chellappa (Lal), who is like a father figure to Sakkarai, is trying to help her but then something shocking happens—Chellappa is found dead. Muthu (Gouri Kishan) is also in trouble because she was found with the murder weapon in the cottage where Chellappa died. However, things get even more complicated as seven other girls come forward, claiming they are the ones who killed him.

    Sakkarai, despite being under investigation himself because his gun was used, decides to lead the murder investigation. The season follows his journey as he tries to find the truth, sticking to his belief that a police officer’s role is to investigate, not judge.

    This season introduces eight new characters (the girls) that add twists and surprises to the story. The reason for eight girls is linked to the Ashtakaali festival, where eight Kaalis join together to fight evil.

    While the mystery keeps unfolding over the eight episodes, the direction and writing by Bramma and Sarjun KM feel less engaging compared to the first season. The charm of the local culture and colorful details from Kaalipattanam is missing, and the story shifts to a more typical police investigation.

    The Verdict:
    The eight episodes are a slow build-up, but unlike the first season, they lack a strong mystery that impacts the village. Some parts can feel slow, and the audience begins to figure things out too easily. Nandini’s character isn’t as well-structured, leaving a desire for sharper writing. Logical gaps in the plot also leave viewers wanting more depth.

    Overall, while Suzhal – The Vortex Season 2 might not be as gripping as the first, it still stands out as one of the better Tamil crime thrillers. The excellent cinematography by Abraham Joseph and the music by Sam CS beautifully showcase elements like the Ashtakaali festival. Pushkar and Gayatri have delivered a mix of characters with an average follow-up to the murder mystery.

  • Stocks Jump Over 15% Despite Market Drop: Today’s Highlights

    Stocks Jump Over 15% Despite Market Drop: Today’s Highlights

    NEW DELHI: On Friday, many stocks in Mumbai jumped over 15%, even though major indexes like the BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty were falling due to a lot of selling. One of the biggest winners was Sri Nachammai, which went up by 16.33%. The 30-share BSE index fell by 861.34 points and was at 73,751.09, while the 50-share NSE index was down by 268.21 points, sitting at 22,276.85. In the Nifty50 index, only 6 stocks were gaining, while 44 were losing.

    Some companies such as Hira Automobiles, Dhanlaxmi Cotex, Triumph International Finance India Ltd., Mahan Ind, and Rubra Medica reached their highest prices in the last year. Meanwhile, other stocks like TCFC Finance, Kachchh Mineral, Kunststoffe Ind, Capital Trust, and KCD Industries India hit their lowest prices in a year during the trading session.

  • Rizwan’s Disappointment: Pakistan Exits ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Early

    Rizwan’s Disappointment: Pakistan Exits ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Early

    Pakistan’s cricket team captain, Mohammad Rizwan, shared his sadness after the team was knocked out of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The tournament is happening in Pakistan and the UAE. After their final group match against Bangladesh ended without a result due to rain, Pakistan finished in last place in Group A with just one point. They suffered defeats against strong teams like New Zealand and India, leaving them unable to reach the semi-finals.

    Rizwan explained that injuries to key players Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman disrupted the team’s balance. “We really wanted to perform well for our fans. Expectations were high, and it’s disappointing that we didn’t do better,” Rizwan said. He described how important Ayub’s recent performances were for the team, but losing him to an ankle injury during a Test series hurt their chances. Zaman also had to leave the tournament early due to a muscle strain.

    When asked about the team’s preparation and depth, Rizwan emphasized the need for improvement in Pakistan’s domestic cricket. “We need to work on many aspects to raise our standards. It’s clear we need to improve our game,” he added.

    Looking ahead, Pakistan is set to tour New Zealand for a series of five T20 matches and three One Day Internationals starting March 16. Rizwan is hopeful that his team will learn from their recent mistakes and come back stronger against New Zealand. “We’ve made mistakes recently, but we can learn and do better next time,” he concluded.

  • Tuhin Kanta Pandey: New SEBI Chairman as Stock Market Faces Challenges

    Tuhin Kanta Pandey: New SEBI Chairman as Stock Market Faces Challenges

    Tuhin Kanta Pandey has been named the new chairperson of SEBI (the Securities and Exchange Board of India) for three years. He will take over from Madhabi Puri Buch, who is the first woman to lead SEBI. Pandey’s appointment was approved by the Cabinet on February 27.

    Pandey steps into this important role as the Indian stock market is experiencing low performance because many foreign investors are pulling out their money. This year alone, these investors have taken out over Rs 1.13 lakh crore.

    Tuhin Kanta Pandey is an experienced officer from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), having joined in 1987. Before this role, he served as the Finance Secretary and the Secretary of the Department of Revenue. He played a big part in significant decisions, like selling Air India and listing LIC on the stock market.

    As Finance Secretary, his job was to advise the Finance Minister and manage important finances for the government. Now, as the head of SEBI, he brings his knowledge of finance and economic management.

    Education-wise, Pandey holds a Master’s degree in Economics from Panjab University and an MBA from the UK. Throughout his career, he has taken on many important roles, including working in health and transport sectors. He has also worked as a District Collector and has been involved in key projects for the government.

    This new position at SEBI marks an exciting chapter in his career!