Author: Supriya Jena

  • Understanding India’s Stock Market: Insights and Strategies

    Understanding India’s Stock Market: Insights and Strategies

    This year, the Indian stock market has been up and down, making many investors feel unsure about where to put their money. Punita Kumar Sinha, a market expert from Pacific Paradigm Advisors, shared her thoughts in an interview with ETNow about what’s going on.

    Sinha explained that while the market isn’t overly expensive anymore, it’s also not the perfect time to find cheap stocks. Right now, stocks are trading at average prices from the last 10 to 20 years, which means they’re more reasonable but not super cheap. She mentioned, “While the market is a bit too low, we might see some short bursts of price increases, but they won’t last long until something new impacts the market.”

    When looking at India as a whole, Sinha feels optimistic about our economy’s strength, mainly driven by how much people in India spend. However, she pointed out that both local and foreign investors need to return strongly for the market to grow steadily.

    Regarding foreign investors selling stocks in India, Sinha explained that it’s not just about things happening outside India. Some money is being moved to China because its stock prices look attractive. She noted, “If the relationship between China and the US gets worse, then money might flow back to India.”

    Sinha believes that financial stocks are good investments despite some recent rules affecting certain companies. She said even though these companies are facing some challenges, there’s still a positive growth outlook due to the growing Indian economy.

    In her view, it’s essential to be careful with investments now, focusing on areas where India shows strengths, like consumer spending. She also recommended larger companies for safety compared to smaller ones.

    In conclusion, Sinha painted a picture of a cautious yet hopeful future for Indian stocks. The prices of stocks are reasonable now, but it’s not yet time for a big return of foreign investors.

  • Tanushree Dutta’s Case Against Nana Patekar: Court Declares It Still Open

    Tanushree Dutta’s Case Against Nana Patekar: Court Declares It Still Open

    In a recent court ruling, actor Tanushree Dutta faced disappointment when a Mumbai court dismissed her appeal against Nana Patekar. However, she remains positive and ready to continue her fight.

    Tanushree shared on her Instagram that there’s good news: the court has canceled a report from the Mumbai Police that tried to close her sexual harassment case against Nana Patekar and others. In 2019, the police said they wanted to end the case without interviewing her witnesses, which Tanushree claims were threatened by Nana’s associates.

    A key witness recently provided strong testimony in court, supporting Tanushree’s claims and revealing that she was pressured to remain quiet. The court accepted this new evidence, meaning the police must now move forward with a formal chargesheet against Nana Patekar.

    Tanushree also called out media outlets spreading false stories about the case. She insisted that the court rejected the police’s attempt to close the case, confirming that it is still open. Tanushree urged everyone to fact-check before reporting.

    Overall, Tanushree feels this victory is just the beginning, as the police are now forced to act on the case.

  • Surprising Rise: Why Eggs Are More Prized than Fentanyl in the U.S

    Surprising Rise: Why Eggs Are More Prized than Fentanyl in the U.S

    A recent report shows that eggs, not fentanyl, are becoming the most sought-after illegal items being smuggled from Canada into the United States. The prices of eggs have shot up due to bird flu, making them highly prized.

    Data from U.S. customs officers reveal that they’re catching more smuggled eggs than fentanyl. Between October 2023 and now, there was a 36% increase in attempts to bring eggs into the U.S. The Detroit customs office reported a 36% rise, while San Diego saw a massive 158% increase in egg seizures.

    Since October, customs officers have seized 3,768 products related to birds and poultry, compared to just 352 fentanyl seizures. Smuggling eggs is illegal in the U.S. because of bird flu, and people caught doing it can face a $300 fine.

    In the U.S., the price of eggs is skyrocketing, with some costing as much as $10 per dozen! The U.S. has been hard-hit by bird flu, while Canada has managed better, leading to high U.S. egg prices for the foreseeable future.

    Former President Trump called the egg situation “out of control” and blame current President Biden for the problems, including the killing of many egg-laying chickens. To fix the egg crisis, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is willing to spend $1 billion to find temporary import solutions but has not yet made any agreements with Canada.

  • Pope Francis’ Recovery: Hope Amidst Holy Year Celebrations

    Pope Francis’ Recovery: Hope Amidst Holy Year Celebrations

    ROME — Pope Francis is getting better after having double pneumonia. He is resting in the hospital, where he has been for almost a month. Doctors say he is stable but still needs special breathing help.

    The 88-year-old pope has a lung condition and had part of a lung removed when he was younger. This weekend, the Vatican is celebrating its Holy Year, which happens only once every 25 years. Lots of people have come to Rome to join in and support the pope, praying for him outside the hospital.

    During his hospital stay, the pope spent some time praying in the hospital chapel. Recently, he has been using high-flow oxygen to help him breathe during the day and a special mask at night. While doctors say it’s good that he is stable, they worry about the risks of other infections if he stays in the hospital too long.

    The pope first went to the hospital on February 14 because he had bronchitis, which later turned into pneumonia. This has kept him away from his duties longer than ever during his 12 years as pope, making people wonder what will happen next.

  • Congress Challenges Modi on Trump’s Tariff Comments: What’s at Stake

    Congress Challenges Modi on Trump’s Tariff Comments: What’s at Stake

    On Saturday, Jairam Ramesh, a leader from the Congress party, raised concerns about a statement from former US President Donald Trump. Trump said that India agreed to lower its tariffs, which are taxes on imported goods. Ramesh worries this could hurt Indian farmers and manufacturers as India’s Commerce Minister, Piyush Goyal, is visiting Washington, D.C. to discuss trade.

    Ramesh posted on social media, asking what the Indian government has promised Trump. He believes that the interests of farmers and local businesses might be at stake and urged Prime Minister Modi to explain the situation when Parliament starts again on March 10th.

    The Congress party also criticized the reported deal, saying it’s an insult to India. Trump suggested that Modi lowered tariffs out of fear, prompting Congress to question what compromises were made. They want answers and plan to hold an all-party meeting on this serious issue, emphasizing the importance of the nation’s interests.

    Trump recently remarked that selling products in India is nearly impossible due to high tariffs. He stated that India wants to cut these tariffs significantly because someone is finally exposing the situation. This news comes as the US is preparing to implement new tariffs on countries with high taxes on American products starting April 2. Trump emphasized that the US will no longer accept being taken advantage of by countries with high tariffs, including India.

  • Arunachal Pradesh Celebrates International Women’s Day with Inspiring Messages

    Arunachal Pradesh Celebrates International Women’s Day with Inspiring Messages

    On International Women’s Day, the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt Gen K T Parnaik, and Chief Minister Pema Khandu sent special greetings to the women of the state. Governor Parnaik emphasized the importance of creating a fair world where every woman can succeed. This year’s theme, “Embracing Equity, Inspiring Change,” reminds us to take active steps towards empowering women.

    He said, “International Women’s Day is not just a celebration but also a call to action. It reminds us how important women are in families, communities, and the country.” The Governor praised the strength and achievements of women in Arunachal Pradesh, who have played a big role in the state’s development. He highlighted that empowering women is key to a strong and inclusive society.

    Parnaik encouraged women to recognize their value, stand up for their rights, and seek better opportunities. He said, “Let’s make this day inspire action and create a world where every woman can lead and succeed.”

    Chief Minister Pema Khandu shared similar thoughts on social media, wishing everyone a Happy International Women’s Day. He celebrated the strength and achievements of women everywhere and urged everyone to support and empower one another for a brighter future. Khandu also met mixed martial arts fighter Sonam Zomba from Arunachal Pradesh and expressed joy at meeting her on this special day.

    He highlighted how women contribute greatly to sports, leadership, and community building, playing a crucial role in shaping a better future for everyone.

  • India Reduces Tariffs: Congress Leader Slams U.S. Pressure

    India Reduces Tariffs: Congress Leader Slams U.S. Pressure

    Congress leader Manish Tewari criticized the BJP-led government for its trade policy. He said it is “unfortunate” that India is cutting tariffs under pressure from the United States. Tewari, who is an MP from Chandigarh, believes this is not a good way to handle trade or foreign relations.

    He pointed out that President Donald Trump has often accused India of having high tariffs, which make it hard for American businesses to sell products here. Trump mentioned this in a recent speech, saying India has agreed to lower its tariffs because someone is finally calling them out on it.

    Tewari thinks it would be better for India to implement fair trade agreements rather than give in to America’s demands. He confirmed that the Congress party will bring this issue up in Parliament soon.

    As the US gets ready to introduce new tariffs on countries with high tariffs on American goods, Trump insists that the US won’t allow itself to be taken advantage of anymore, especially by nations like India.

  • PM Modi Celebrates Inspiring Women for International Women’s Day 2023

    PM Modi Celebrates Inspiring Women for International Women’s Day 2023

    In celebration of International Women’s Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi showed his support for women, also known as “Nari Shakti,” by sharing his social media accounts with six incredible women. These women come from different parts of India and have inspiring stories.

    Meet the Amazing Women:

    – Vaishali Rameshbabu: A young chess star from Chennai, Vaishali started playing chess at just six years old. In 2023, she became a Chess Grandmaster, making India proud with her talent.

    – Dr. Anjlee Agarwal: A strong advocate for accessibility, Dr. Agarwal runs the Samarthyam Centre for Universal Accessibility. For over 30 years, she has worked to make public spaces, like schools, easier to access for people with disabilities.

    – Anita Devi: Known as the “Mushroom Lady of Bihar,” Anita started the Madhopur Farmers Producers Company in 2016. Her work in mushroom farming has helped many rural women find jobs and gain financial independence.

    – Ajaita Shah: As the founder and CEO of Frontier Markets, Ajaita empowers over 35,000 women in rural areas, helping them become successful business owners and connect their communities to needed goods and services.

    – Elina Mishra and Shilpi Soni: These two scientists, Elina from Mumbai and Shilpi from ISRO, are doing important research. They took over PM Modi’s social media accounts together to share their stories.

    Prime Minister Modi praised these women for their hard work and success, calling them examples of the brighter future that women can help create in India. He wrote on social media, “They remind us of the endless possibilities women have. We celebrate their achievements today and every day!”

  • Women Scientists Inspire on PM Modi’s Social Media for Women’s Day

    Women Scientists Inspire on PM Modi’s Social Media for Women’s Day

    On Saturday, two amazing women scientists took over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s social media accounts to talk about their work for International Women’s Day. Before this, on February 23, Modi announced that he would let some inspiring women share their stories on March 8, Women’s Day.

    The two scientists, Elina from Odisha and Shilpi from Madhya Pradesh, shared their exciting projects on PM Modi’s official X account. They introduced themselves as a nuclear scientist and a space scientist, respectively, saying, “We’re thrilled to show how vibrant science is in India. We invite more women to join!”

    Elina Mishra explained how her father inspired her love for science. She got her dream job at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre in Mumbai, where she worked on advanced projects. “When we successfully accelerated a proton beam, it was a proud moment for me,” she shared.

    Meanwhile, Shilpi Soni, who has worked at ISRO for over 24 years, described her journey from the DRDO to ISRO, where she focuses on communication and navigation technologies. “ISRO offers great chances for everyone, with no limits to what you can achieve,” she said, expressing pride in India’s advancements in space technology.

    Shilpi also serves as the Associate Project Director for GSAT-22/23, which helps connect people in India. She shared that being part of an ISRO launch in French Guiana was a deeply fulfilling experience. Both women are proud to create opportunities for future generations in science.

  • China Places $2.6B Tariffs on Canadian Food: A Trade War Update

    China Places $2.6B Tariffs on Canadian Food: A Trade War Update

    China has decided to place tariffs on over $2.6 billion worth of food and agricultural items coming from Canada. This move is a response to taxes Canada imposed on some Chinese products back in October. The new tariffs will begin on March 20.

    China’s new taxes include a 100% tariff on about $1 billion of Canadian rapeseed oil and another 25% on $1.6 billion of Canadian fish and pork. This is similar to the taxes Canada put on electric vehicles and steel from China.

    Interestingly, China did not include canola, a major Canadian crop, in these new tariffs. This might suggest that China is open to discussing trade with Canada. Some experts believe China is sending a message about the risks of Canada getting too close to U.S. trade policies.

    Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that the country is trying to push back against what he describes as China’s unfair practices in trade. Earlier, China also started an investigation into Canadian canola products due to concerns of dumping.

    About half of Canada’s canola exports go to China, which in 2023 amounted to $3.7 billion. The investigation is still ongoing, so not adding canola to the tariff list this time could be a sign that China wants to negotiate.

    Beijing might be hoping that after the upcoming Canadian election on October 20, a new government could lead to improved relations. Currently, Canada is China’s second-largest trading partner, following the United States, and they exported about $47 billion worth of goods to China in 2024.