Yunus refers to India's northeast states in bid to lure China; sparks questions

 

Yunus refers to India's northeast states in bid to lure China; sparks questions

Muhammad Yunus, the head of Bangladesh's interim government, during his four-day China visit, made a pitch to Beijing that surprisingly included India's seven northeastern states. He said the seven states were landlocked, and China could use Bangladesh to make extensions.

Any growing influence of China in its immediate neighbourhood would be of concern to India. Bangladesh is of strategic importance to India, and several places in the country are close to the Siliguri Corridor, also referred to as the Chicken's Neck, a tiny strip of land that connects the northeast states to the rest of India.

While urging Beijing to establish an economic foothold in Bangladesh by leveraging its strategic position as the "only guardian of the ocean" in the region, Yunus said, "The seven states of India, the eastern part of India, are called the Seven Sisters. They are a landlocked region of India. They have no way to reach out to the ocean."

"So this opens up a huge possibility. This could be an extension of the Chinese economy," Yunus further said at a high-level roundtable discussion on 'sustainable infrastructure and energy' at Beijing's The Presidential hotel on Friday.

Not just the Indian northeastern states, Yunus also referred to Nepal and Bhutan, while he tried to lure China to make investments in Bangladesh.

"That's an opportunity we should seize and implement. Nepal and Bhutan have unlimited hydropower, which is a blessing. We can bring it to our purpose. From Bangladesh, you can go anywhere you want. The ocean is our backyard," Yunus said in Beijing.

"We are the only guardian of the ocean for all this region. So this opens up a huge possibility. This could be an extension of the Chinese economy. Build things, produce things, market things, bring things to China, bring it out to the rest of the world," Yunus added.

EXPERTS QUESTION YUNUS'S REFERENCE TO INDIAN STATES

Yunus' remarks on India's seven northeastern states came in as he was speaking to several Chinese business leaders in Beijing.

Yunus, during the China visit, also sought Beijing's expertise in river water management and proposed the need for a 50-year master plan.

His remarks drew attention from Indian economist Sanjeev Sanyal, who is also a member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Economic Advisory Council.

"China is welcome to invest in Bangladesh, but what exactly is the significance of 7 Indian states being landlocked?" Sanyal asked on X.

"It is very disturbing and needs clarification. Is Yunus publicly calling for China to get involved in the Seven Sister states of India?" asked Chris Blackburn, a political and security analyst, on X.

An expansionist China has tried to get closer to India's northeast. It has built strategic infrastructure, dams and villages close to the border with Arunachal Pradesh, which it claims to be part of "South Tibet".

India, on its part, has tried to match up with border infrastructure, including the Arunachal Frontier Highway, officially National Highway 913 (NH-913). It isn't just another road but India's most ambitious attempt to fortify its borders with China while bringing development to one of the country's most remote and rugged regions.

YUNUS VISIT TO CHINA A MESSAGE TO INDIA?

On March 26, coinciding with Bangladesh's Independence Day, Muhammad Yunus boarded a special China Southern flight for a four-day official visit to China. During the trip Yunus, who also met Chinese premier Xi Jinping, inked several memoranda of understanding (MoUs).

The visit, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Bangladesh, marked a key moment in bilateral relations between both nations.

Yunus's visit to China on Independence Day, coinciding with Bangladesh's strained ties with India, was no coincidence. It was a message in itself.

"Muhammad Yunus has chosen China for his first state visit and with this Bangladesh is sending a message," Dhaka's top foreign ministry officer, Mohammad Jashim Uddin, told news agency AFP ahead of Yunus's China trip.

Maritime ties were one of the focusses of Yunus' China visit, with Dhaka inviting Chinese firms to modernise Mongla Port and expand the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone (CEIZ) in Chattogram.

China pledged significant financial support, including $400 million for Mongla Port, $350 million for the CEIZ, and $150 million in technical assistance, with additional grants to follow, according to news agency BSS.

With Bangladesh's economy in dire straits, attracting Chinese investment might be critical for Yunus. But what is difficult to understand is his reference to India's seven northeastern states in his investment pitch.

UK to become 'defence industrial superpower', finance minister says

 

UK to become 'defence industrial superpower', finance minister says

Britain's finance minister Rachel Reeves said she wanted the country to become a "defence industrial superpower" as she pumped an extra 2.2 billion pounds ($2.8 billion) into the sector in her budget update on Wednesday.

Reflecting heightened geopolitical tension and U.S. President Donald Trump's calls for Europe to do more to protect its own security, Reeves said she would focus on new technology and innovation to drive the country's defence industry.

Under new plans, 10% of the government's defence equipment budget would be spent on new technologies, she said, with a focus on drones and AI, while small companies would be given better access to defence contracts in a reform of what she called a "broken" procurement system.

The government is also setting aside 400 million pounds to be spent on UK defence innovation to bring new technology to the frontline more quickly, she said.

Reeves referenced defence throughout her speech, calling the extra cash for the sector vital in a "a more insecure world", and adding that the investment would help the wider economy.

"This additional investment is not just about increasing our national security but increasing our economic security, too. As defence spending rises, I want the whole country to feel the benefits," she said.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer last month committed to lift defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, the biggest increase in the budget since the end of the Cold War, and said Britain will aim to spend 3% of its GDP on defence in the next parliament.

HAL is ICICI Securities’ top pick: 4 reasons for the big upgrade

 

HAL share price: The share price of HAL has risen 3.77% in the past five trading sessions.(Image: HAL/website)

Hindustan Aeronautics was in trouble after the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) chief called out HAl for delay in deliveries of orders. To that, HAL in its response said, GE Aerospace didn’t supply engines for the light combat aircraft Tejas.

ICICI Securities on HAL: Upgrades to Buy from Hold

However, two days back GE Aerospace delivered the first of 99 F404-IN20 engines to HAL for the light combat aircraft Tejas Mk 1A, which will help ramp up execution. Following this, ICICI Securities in a research note upgraded the rating to ‘Buy’ from ‘Hold’ on the stock. Plus, it raised the target price by 23% to Rs 5,000 from Rs 4,065. “We see this is a vital development that allays execution risk concerns” said ICICI Securities in a research note. 

ICICI Securities on HAL: New orders to leg up order book

The recent order of 97 Tejas Mk 1A and 156 LCH Prachand will leg up the company’s order book. “We expect revenue growth of 25–28% through FY27, based on the order book estimated at more than Rs 1.3 lakh crore,” said ICICI Securities. This may result in earnings per share growth at a compounded annual rate of 39% by FY27 from FY25. 

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While the company can manufacture 24 Tejas Mk 1A, the brokerage house estimates only a gradual ramp-up from 10 in FY26 to 24 by FY30.

Besides, HAL aims to complete the assembly of the first Tejas Mk-II aircraft by October 2025 and achieve its maiden flight by the end of March 2026 (HAL Nears Completion of First Tejas MkII Aircraft as Assembly Progresses Swiftly – Indian Defence Research Wing). 

IAF was not confident on HAL

Coming back to trouble, during Aero India 2025, IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh criticized the company for the delays in the delivery of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)-Mk1A. “You have to alleviate (our) worries and make us more confident. At the moment, I am just not confident of HAL, which is a very wrong thing to happen,” Singh said.

HAL’s stock performance

The share price of HAL has risen 3.77% in the past five trading sessions. The stock has given a return of over 35% in the last one month. However, it has fallen 5.5% in the previous six months. The defence stock has raised investors’ wealth by 22.8% in the last one year. 

'West is becoming more of a scam': European student asks why Indians want to leave the country, questions migration wave

 

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'West is becoming more of a scam': European student asks why Indians want to leave the country, questions migration wave

In a thought-provoking Reddit post that has sparked debate, a European student voiced skepticism over the increasing number of Indians aspiring to move to the West, questioning whether Western countries are still the promised lands they once appeared to be.

The post, which appeared in a popular migration-related subreddit, expressed concerns about the economic challenges in Western nations. The author pointed to soaring housing costs, stagnating wages, and intense job market competition as signs of a declining Western dream.

"Housing is getting super expensive, and its price is growing at a higher rate than salaries. Many fields are facing a crisis, and even highly educated locals struggle to secure jobs. How can you, coming from India, believe this is a land of milk and honey where you will succeed in all your endeavors?" the student asked.

The discussion highlights a growing sentiment among some Westerners who question why skilled professionals from booming economies like India continue to seek opportunities abroad. The Redditor pointed to India’s rapid GDP growth, its thriving corporate sector, and a lower cost of living as compelling reasons to stay.

"Looking at it from the outside, India is a country where GDP is growing at such a fast rate, and its prospects for the future look great. Wouldn’t an ambitious Indian have more to gain from starting their own business or working in corporations within its rapidly growing economy?" they added.

Acknowledging their lack of firsthand experience in India, the student emphasized their desire for an open discussion.

The post quickly gained traction, eliciting a range of responses from Indian users who shared personal experiences and counterarguments. Some pointed to systemic issues like bureaucracy, corruption, and limited opportunities for cutting-edge research as reasons for seeking jobs abroad.

"India is growing, but so is its population. The competition here is brutal, and opportunities are limited if you’re not from a privileged background," wrote one user.

Another pointed out the appeal of Western work cultures: "It’s not just about money; it’s about work-life balance, better infrastructure, and personal freedom. Those things still matter."

However, others agreed with the European student’s perspective, emphasizing the potential of India's domestic market. "The cost of living in the West is insane. I earn well in India and enjoy a far better quality of life than my friends who moved abroad and are drowning in rent and expenses," noted one commenter.

The debate underscores the complexity of migration decisions, revealing a mix of economic aspirations, cultural preferences, and individual career goals. While the West still attracts many for its opportunities and stability, India's rise as an economic powerhouse is making some rethink the necessity of leaving home.

Iran arms missile sites after Trump's ‘bombing’ threat, rejects talks, ‘all depends on America's behaviour’ | 10 points

 

Trump Proposes Talks to Iran on Nuclear Program, Tehran Rejects Offer

After threatening to ‘bomb’ Iran, Donald Trump on Sunday wrote to Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, to start talks on ending Tehran's nuclear weapons programme. However, Iran rejected the offer on Sunday saying that ‘It’s the behavior of the US that determines the future path of negotiations’.

Here's look at top 10 developments in the US, Iran conflict:

• Iran has reportedly armed all launchers in its underground missile sites. The country is ready to attack after President Trump threatened to bomb Iran if it refused a nuclear deal, reported The Tehran Times.
• They said on X, “Information received by the Tehran Times indicates that Iran's missiles are loaded onto launchers in all underground missile cities and are ready for launch. Opening the Pandora's box will come at a heavy cost for the U.S. government and its allies.”

• Trump told NBC on Saturday that “If they don't make a deal, there will be bombing”. “But there's a chance that if they don't make a deal, that I will do secondary tariffs on them like I did four years ago.”
• Trump also said the US and officials from the Islamic Republic are already "talking."
• Meanwhile, President Masoud Pezeshkian said in televised remarks on Sunday that Iran has\ informed Trump the country won’t engage in direct negotiations with the US, Bloomberg reported.
• Pezeshkian said the decision was conveyed in Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s response to a letter Trump had sent earlier this month on the prospect of new talks over Tehran’s nuclear program.

• Pezeshkian still noted that in Iran's response indirect negotiations with the Trump administration were still possible.
• “They must prove that they can build trust regarding their decisions, and I hope this will happen,” Pezeshkian said. “It’s the behavioUr of the Americans that determines the future path of negotiations.”
• Iran delivered its response to Trump’s letter via Oman on Wednesday, according to the country’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Over the weekend, Araghchi described the letter as containing “both a threat and an opening for diplomacy,” adding that Iran remained skeptical of Trump’s intentions
• As per AFP report, analysts have said Iran may be just weeks away from producing a deliverable nuclear weapon -- though Tehran denies it is building such arms. Either way, such an attack carries a risk of spreading to a wider conflict.

Here's all about Trump-Iran conflict over nuclear program

Trump in 2018 pulled the US out of an agreement to relieve sanctions on Iran in return for curbs on its nuclear program. Now, in his second term, he has said he is open to talks on a new deal that could reduce the risk of military escalation.

Trump revealed in early March that he had sent a letter proposing such talks to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Meanwhile, he has pushed ahead with his "maximum pressure" program of additional sanctions and the threat of military action.

Iran, deeply suspicious of the US administration after Trump's withdrawal from the original nuclear deal, has refused to negotiate directly with Washington.

(With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar earthquake: Thailand orders probe into Bangkok skyscraper collapse after China firm's link found

 

Rescuers are racing against time to find and bring out those trapped under the collapsed skyscraper's rubble.

As a deadly 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar on Friday, over 1,000 km away from the epicenter, in Thailand's capital city of Bangkok, collapsed one 33-storey under construction high-rise building.

Thailand's deputy prime minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who visited the collapse site on Saturday, ordered a rapid investigation into the incident, stirring curiosity among many as to what went wrong with the skyscraper, which was being constructed by a joint venture that included a Chinese firm.

‘Something definitely wrong’

This 33-storey high-rise building, despite having been dotted with cranes, collapsed in the intense quake shake. So far, eight bodies have been recovered from the debris of the skyscraper.

Questions over how and why the skyscraper collapsed so quickly have begun to do the rounds. Prof Suchatchavee Suwansawas, a civil engineer and politician from the Democrat Party, told The Telegraph UK that something was "definitely" wrong.

"You see all other buildings, even high-rise buildings under construction, they are safe. So either the design was wrong or construction was wrong, but it's too soon to reach conclusions," he noted.

Constructed over 3 years

The collapsed building reportedly was the unfinished headquarters of the Thailand's State Audit Office (SAO) and had been under construction for three years, at a cost of more than two billion Thai baht (around $58 million).

It was a joint venture between Italian-Thai Development Plc and China Railway Number 10 (Thailand) Ltd. The latter company is a subsidiary of a Chinese firm named China Railway Number 10 Engineer Group Company, holding 49 per cent of shares, the largest amount of stake foreign entities can hold in a Thai company, The Telegraph UK reported.

As per local Thai media, China Railway Number 10 Thailand was established in 2018, serving as a construction contractor for office buildings, residential buildings, public roads, railways, and underground railways.

In 2023, the company reported a net loss of 199.66 million baht, from a revenue of 206.25 million baht and expenses of 354.95 billion baht.

Its shareholders comprise of Sophon Meechai with 40.80 per cent shares, Prachuab Sirikhet with 10.20 per cent shares and Manas Sri-anant with 3 per cent shares.

Thailand deputy PM orders probe

The Ministry of Industry, meanwhile, had sent an inspection team to the collapsed skyscraper's site to determine whether low quality steel or poor engineering design contributed to the incident.

Thailand's deputy prime minister Anutin Charnvirakul also ordered a high-level probe into the collapse after having visited the site. "I am appointing the investigation committee. I have given them seven days to report back as to what's going on and what caused the falling down," he told reporters.

At least 18 people were killed in Bangkok, while 33 others injured and 78 remained missing, city authorities said on Sunday. And of these, the majority of deaths were of the workers who got crushed under the rubble of the collapse skyscraper.

Rescuers are racing against time to get to the survivors, digging through the massive debris containing shattered concrete piles and twisted metal, a Reuters report said. A Thai police commander Teerasak Thongmo, said that his team of policemen and rescue dogs were working to locate the survivors. "Our team is trying to find anyone that might still be alive. Within the first 72 hours, we have to try and save those still alive," he added.

In Myanmar, the earthquake so far has claimed around 1,700 lives, injured 3,400 others and left over 300 persons missing as of Sunday.

Why did Thailand take the hit of Myanmar earthquake

Experts have said that earthquakes that are very shallow, like this one which just 10 km from the surface, increase the amount of shaking that takes place at the surface. Geologists even described the force of the quake as equivalent to that of "334 atomic bombs".

Dr Rebecca Bell, a reader in tectonics at Imperial College London, explained to BBC that the size of the earthquake was massive because of the type of fault, which was of 'straight nature'.

"This straight fault also means a lot of the energy can be carried down its length - which extends for 1,200 km south towards Thailand," she said.

And in Bangkok, which is built on soft soil, seismic waves i.e., the earth's vibrations, slow down and build up and get bigger in size. Hence, making the ground shaking even more intense.

'Flat slab'

As per a BBC report, Prof Amorn Pimarnmas, president of the Structural Engineers Association of Thailand, said despite regulations being in place in 43 provinces on earthquake-proofing buildings, less than 10 per cent of the structures were actually estimated to be resistant to quakes.

However, the collapsed skyscraper was relative and thus, updating building standards would have been applied to it. Dr Pimarnmas also noted that Bangkok's soft soil could have played a part in its collapse, as it can amplify the ground shaking three to four times over.

Some experts also pointed towards a "flat slab", a construction process wherein floors are made to rest directly on columns without the use of beams.

Dr Christian Málaga-Chuquitaype, a senior lecturer in earthquake engineering at Imperial College London, explained, "Imagine a table supported only by legs, with no extra horizontal supports underneath. While this design has cost and architectural advantages, it performs poorly during earthquakes, often failing in a brittle and sudden (almost explosive) manner."

Some hope left

Meanwhile, friends and family of those trapped under the collapsed skyscraper showed some hope as thermal imaging drones reportedly identified at least 15 persons to still probably be alive.

But the optimism is beginning to tire down. One of the kins, Pat Kongporn, whose parents are stuck under the rubble, told The Telegraph that she spoke to her mother and father at about 12:30 pm (local time) on Friday, just before the earthquake struck.

Having travelled to Bangkok from a city 50 miles north, she said that she would stay until there is some information about her parents or until their bodies are found.

Global Entry Program: A gateway for hassle-free US travel for Indian citizens

 

Global Entry Program: A gateway for hassle-free US travel for Indian citizens

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program designed to expedite customs and border clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers entering the United States. Launched in 2008, Global Entry has become a preferred choice for frequent international travelers, offering convenience and efficiency at U.S. airports. India, in 2017, joined the list of countries whose citizens are eligible to apply for Global Entry, marking a significant milestone in enhancing travel convenience and bilateral ties between the United States and India.

This article explores the key aspects of the Global Entry program, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, the application process, reasons for denial, and the significance of India’s inclusion.

What is Global Entry?

Global Entry allows expedited clearance for pre-approved travelers upon arrival in the United States. Members enter through automated kiosks at select airports, bypassing the traditional customs process. The program saves time and reduces the stress associated with international travel.

At participating airports, Global Entry kiosks enable members to:

1. Scan their passports or U.S. permanent resident cards.
2. Complete a digital customs declaration.
3. Submit biometric information, such as fingerprints.
4. Receive a transaction receipt and proceed directly to baggage claim.

Benefits of Global Entry

1. Time Saving: Members bypass long immigration and customs queues at U.S. airports.
2. Convenience: The automated kiosks reduce paperwork and speed up processing.
3. Multiple Entry Points: Global Entry is available at over 75 U.S. airports and select pre-clearance locations worldwide.
4. Streamlined Travel: Ideal for frequent international travelers who prioritize efficiency and convenience.
5. TSA PreCheck: Individuals who are members of Global Entry get the added benefit of this program managed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States. It allows pre-approved travelers go through expedited security screening at participating U.S. airports. Key features of TSA PreCheck include:

• Expedited Screening: Members can use dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes, which are usually shorter than regular security lines.
• Streamlined Process: Travelers do not need to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets. Additionally, laptops and approved liquids can remain in carry-on bags during screening.
• Available for Flights Within and From the U.S.: While TSA PreCheck is primarily for domestic flights, some international flights departing or connecting through the U.S. offer this service if operated by participating airlines.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for Global Entry extends to U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and citizens of select countries, including India. Key eligibility requirements include:

• Citizenship: Applicants must belong to an eligible country.
• Age: No age restrictions exist, but minors require parental or guardian consent.
• Clean Record: Applicants must have a clean criminal record and no history of customs, immigration, or agriculture violations.
• Low-Risk Status: CBP conducts a thorough background check to determine if an applicant poses any security risks.

Tip: An immigration attorney can help determine eligibility for the program and provide guidance on completing the application correctly.This could help you avoid detrimental denial.

The Application Process

Applying for Global Entry involves the following steps:

• Online Application: Complete the application on the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website and pay the non-refundable US$100 application fee.
• Background Check: CBP conducts a detailed background check using law enforcement databases.
• Conditional Approval: Eligible applicants receive conditional approval, which allows them to schedule an in-person interview.
• Interview: Attend the interview at a designated Global Entry Enrollment Center. The interview includes a review of travel history, biometric data collection, and a discussion of program rules.
• Membership Approval: Approved applicants receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that is valid for five years.

Tip: An immigration attorney can also address concerns related to travel history or legal documentation that may arise during the application or verification process.

Background Verification for Indian Nationals

The Indian government conducts background checks for Global Entry applicants under a bilateral agreement with the U.S. This process involves coordination across multiple departments including the police department and security and confidential checks to ensure the applicant’s eligibility. Due to the complexity of the vetting process, the government does not specify any timelines.

The Indian government’s role is to provide assurance to the U.S. CBP about the applicant’s reliability, making the entire procedure rigorous and secure. It’s essential to note that this service is not a public offering for all Indian citizens but is limited to eligible applicants.

Tip: If there are delays or issues during the background verification, an immigration attorney may help liaise with relevant authorities to resolve them efficiently.

Reasons for Denial

Sometimes, applicants are not approved for Global Entry. Common reasons for denial include:

• Criminal History: A criminal record, including arrests or convictions, can disqualify an applicant.
• Customs or Immigration Violations: Past violations, such as smuggling or visa overstays, result in ineligibility.
• Inconsistent Information: Discrepancies in the application or during the interview can raise red flags.
• Failure to Meet Criteria: Applicants deemed high-risk based on their background checks may be denied.
• Unpaid Taxes or Fines: Outstanding government debts or fines can impact eligibility.

Applicants who are denied can file an appeal or seek reconsideration, but success depends on addressing the reasons for initial denial.

Tip: At each stage of the process, an immigration attorney can provide insights into required documentation, clarify legal queries, expedite the process where possible and help mitigate the risks of denial.

Conclusion

Global Entry represents a significant advancement in simplifying international travel, and India’s inclusion in the program is a testament to the deepening ties between the two nations. The program’s benefits, including time savings, convenience, and enhanced security, make it an invaluable resource for frequent travelers. However, applicants must meet stringent eligibility criteria and navigate a detailed application process to enjoy its advantages.

As the global travel landscape evolves, programs like Global Entry are key to promoting efficient and secure mobility. For Indian citizens, the opportunity to participate in Global Entry enhances their travel experience and underscores India’s growing prominence in international affairs. Whether for business, education, or leisure, Global Entry opens doors to a seamless travel experience, reflecting the shared commitment of the United States and India to fostering cooperation and connectivity.