New Delhi, Aug.29,2025:The agriculture sector experienced a significant turnaround, with a 3.7% growth in real terms, up from 1.5% in the same quarter of the previous fiscal year

India’s economy has demonstrated remarkable resilience, achieving a 7.8% GDP growth in the first quarter (April-June) of the 2025–26 fiscal year. This performance not only surpasses the Reserve Bank of India’s projection of 6.5% but also defies expectations amid global economic uncertainties.

Sectoral Performance Highlights

Agriculture Sector

The agriculture sector experienced a significant turnaround, with a 3.7% growth in real terms, up from 1.5% in the same quarter of the previous fiscal year. This improvement reflects favorable monsoon conditions and effective government policies supporting the sector.

Manufacturing and Construction

The secondary sector, encompassing manufacturing and construction, recorded a 7.7% and 7.6% growth, respectively. These figures indicate a robust industrial activity, driven by increased domestic demand and infrastructure development projects.

Services Sector

The services sector led the growth trajectory with a 9.3% increase, up from 6.8% in the previous year’s first quarter. Key drivers include trade, hotels, transport, communications, and financial services, reflecting a rebound in consumer spending and business activities.

Government Spending and Consumption Patterns

Government Final Consumption Expenditure (GFCE) witnessed a substantial rise of 9.7%, compared to 4.0% in Q1 FY25. This surge indicates increased public spending on infrastructure and welfare programs. Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE) grew by 7.0%, signaling sustained consumer confidence and spending.

Impact of U.S. Tariffs on Indian Exports

Despite the robust growth, India’s export sector faces challenges due to the United States’ imposition of additional tariffs on Indian goods. The tariffs, which have increased up to 50%, are expected to impact key export industries such as textiles, chemicals, and food products. The government is exploring measures to mitigate these effects and support affected sectors.

Comparative Analysis: India vs. China

In contrast, China’s economy grew by 5.2% in the same quarter, indicating a slowdown from previous periods. Factors contributing to this deceleration include weak domestic demand and challenges in the real estate sector. India’s higher growth rate underscores its economic resilience and potential for sustained development.

Economic Outlook and Future Projections

While the current growth is commendable, economists caution that the upcoming quarters may witness moderation due to external trade pressures and global economic conditions. Projections suggest a full-year GDP growth ranging between 6.0% and 6.5%, contingent on effective policy interventions and global trade dynamics.

India’s 7.8% GDP growth in Q1 FY26 is a testament to its economic resilience and the effectiveness of domestic policies. While challenges persist, the country’s diversified economic base and proactive measures position it well for sustained growth in the coming quarters.

New Delhi,Aug.27,2025:Proactive steps from the government are bolstering the nation’s adaptability. Measures include lowering GST, enhancing export incentives, and pushing for new free-trade agreements—all aimed at boosting domestic demand and opening

Investor confidence remains firm

India withstands Trump tariffs emphatically, thanks to strong backing from rating agencies and domestic financial institutions. Fitch expects only a modest GDP impact, keeping growth at 6.5% for FY2025–26.
The Indian economy has earned a sovereign upgrade from S&P (from BBB– to BBB), signaling strong macroeconomic resilience and improving investor sentiment.
SBI research projects that while goods worth ~$45 billion could be impacted, trade negotiations and economic adaptability are expected to restore export confidence.

Expansive domestic market buffers shock

India’s vast and growing internal consumption base helps cushion external shocks. Exports comprise ~20% of GDP, meaning disruptions from a 50% U.S. tariff may have a muted overall impact.
Recent projections by GTRI foresee U.S.-bound exports dropping nearly 43%, but strong non-U.S. trade and rising services exports still maintain export momentum.

Government’s strategic countermeasures

Proactive steps from the government are bolstering the nation’s adaptability. Measures include lowering GST, enhancing export incentives, and pushing for new free-trade agreements—all aimed at boosting domestic demand and opening fresh markets.
PM Modi decisively stated he’s “ready to pay a very heavy price” to protect farmers, showing that national interests won’t be compromised under pressure.
India is also diversifying its trade portfolio, eyeing markets in Southeast Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the EU.

Controlled inflation and stable growth

Despite external turbulence, India’s monetary health remains intact.
Inflation is under control—ADB projects it to stay within RBI’s target (around 3.8% this year, rising to 4% by 2026). Retail inflation has even dropped to an eight-year low of 1.55% in July (inflation data from earlier text).
RBI preserved its 6.5% GDP growth forecast, even projecting Q1 growth at 6.9%, indicating steady momentum despite tariffs.

Infrastructure empowerment and policy initiatives

Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, India is sharply increasing infrastructure investments and promoting domestic manufacturing.
Defence procurement from the U.S. has paused, but India is strengthening ties with BRICS partners and bolstering its global strategic posture.
Industrial leaders, like Sajjan Jindal, are driving self-reliance and local supply chain enhancement—key for sectors like EVs and green steel.

True to the headline: India withstands Trump tariffs not through defiance alone, but through strategic vision, economic diversity, policy agility, and internal strength. While the immediate fallout of a 50% tariff raises serious challenges, especially for export sectors, India’s broader foundation and intent to overhaul trade dynamics signal a robust path forward.

New Delhi, Aug.26,2025:Opposition figures have pointed to the unprecedented nature of this disappearance from public view. Former CM Ashok Gehlot termed his resignation “unprecedented,” highlighting the constitutional position Dhankhar occupied

The Mysterious Disappearance

Missing Vice-President Dhankhar has become a phrase echoing across political corridors following the silent, abrupt resignation of Jagdeep Dhankhar on July 21, 2025, citing health concerns. Since then, he has not appeared in public nor issued any statement—a fact that has stoked widespread concern and speculation.

From Resignation to Silence

• July 21, 2025: Jagdeep Dhankhar resigns as Vice-President citing health reasons.
• July 22 onward: Attempts by colleagues to reach him—including calls via his personal secretary—went unanswered. Initial response was that he was “resting,” but no further updates followed.
• August 9, 2025: Kapil Sibal publicly raises the alarm, asking where Dhankhar is and whether a habeas corpus petition is.
• Subsequent days: Additional leaders, including Supriya Sule, Ashok Gehlot, and parties like TMC and CPI, urge transparency and raise alarm over his absence.

Opposition Voices Alarm

Opposition figures have pointed to the unprecedented nature of this disappearance from public view. Former CM Ashok Gehlot termed his resignation “unprecedented,” highlighting the constitutional position Dhankhar occupied. Supriya Sule also voiced concern that no one—not family nor political peers—had heard a word from him. The TMC and CPI formally called for explanations over his silence and whereabouts.

Shah Speaks Out: “Don’t Make a Fuss”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah responded to the mounting speculation, affirming that Dhankhar resigned for health reasons and labeling the concerns—like claims of house arrest—as baseless. He advised against overanalyzing the matter.

Broader Speculation & Political Reactions

The unusual scenario has spurred deeper speculation—with some critics hinting at political coercion behind his exit, though no concrete evidence has surfaced. The silence and inaccessibility of a former constitutional figure have raised concerns about evolving democratic norms.

What This Means for India’s Constitutional Norms

A Vice-President vanishing from public view without explanation challenges expectations of transparency in governance. It raises pivotal questions around accountability, media scrutiny, and how political transitions are managed—especially during unforeseen medical or personal crises.

Key Questions That Demand Answers

These questions aren’t rhetorical—they reflect legitimate public concern over democratic norms and respect for constitutional roles.

Calling for Transparency

The “Missing Vice-President Dhankhar” scenario underscores the need for clarity during sensitive political transitions. A comprehensive statement from relevant authorities—be it the Home Ministry, family, or a trusted institution—is necessary to allay public fear and uphold faith in democratic institutions.

New Delhi, Aug.26,2025: According to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, the summit will launch new India–Japan initiatives in defense, ship maintenance, and space technology. A business leaders

A Diplomatic Power Move

PM Modi Japan China Visit 2025 signals a bold leap in India’s foreign policy in the Indo-Pacific. Slated for August 29–September 1, this whirlwind trip positions India at the confluence of regional cooperation, strategic diplomacy, and trust-building. Across two critical summits, the Prime Minister’s engagements promise tangible initiatives and visionary collaboration.

Agenda Highlights of the Visit

First-Ever Annual Summit with Japan’s PM Ishiba

This visit marks Prime Minister Modi’s first dedicated annual summit with Japan’s PM Shigeru Ishiba, reaffirming their deep special and global strategic partnership. It’s also Modi’s eighth visit to Japan, but the first focused solely on bilateral progress.

Strategic Cooperation: Defense, Trade, Technology

According to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, the summit will launch new India–Japan initiatives in defense, ship maintenance, and space technology. A business leaders’ forum and state–prefecture collaborations are also on the schedule, building on years of growing ties.

Revitalizing India–China Ties through SCO Summit

Following Japan, PM Modi will head to Tianjin, China, to attend the SCO Summit (August 31–September 1). It’s his first visit to China in over seven years, and his first such participation since 2019 in a Summit context. The visit aims to reset diplomatic dynamics and includes expected bilateral talks with key global leaders.

Why It Matters – Regional Stability and Global Outreach

PM Modi’s dual engagement exemplifies India’s leadership in shaping responsibility-driven diplomacy. In Tokyo, the focus is on shared values and economic resilience. In Tianjin, the emphasis is on constructive dialogue amid persistent tensions, especially post-2020 border clashes.

Insights from Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri articulated the multifaceted significance of these visits:

• The summit will consolidate long-standing friendship with Japan and open fresh cooperation avenues in tech, trade, security, and beyond.
• The SCO summit reinforces India’s commitment to regional security through dialogue, reinforcing mechanisms like counter-terrorism and economic cooperation.

Misri, a veteran diplomat and China expert, enhances the diplomacy by blending experience with strategic vision.

Historical Context of India–China Diplomatic Landscape

India’s return to China signals a shift toward cautious rapprochement. Recent measures include resumed direct flights, visa normalization, and border confidence-building—laying groundwork for high-level diplomacy. The SCO, originally focused on security, has expanded into economic and technological integration—making it a fitting arena for renewed partnership.

Implications for the Quad and Indo-Pacific Strategy

India’s alignment with the Quad — India, Japan, Australia, U.S. — amplifies its strategic posture. Recent joint efforts to secure critical minerals reflect this proactive collaboration. Modi’s engagement in Japan will touch upon these topics.

In China, India may reinforce its stance on terrorism, sovereignty, and economic balance—key concerns amid shifting global powers.

A Defining Diplomatic Mission

The PM Modi Japan China Visit 2025 is far more than a routine foreign trip—it is a showcase of decisive leadership, strategic foresight, and regional responsibility. By deepening ties with Japan and engaging with China, India has positioned itself as a central architect of peace, progress, and stability in Asia.

We are witnessing a diplomatic tour to remember—one that may well define the trajectory of Indo-Pacific dynamics for years to come.

New Delhi, Aug.26,2025: AAP national convenor and former Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal slammed the ED Raid Saurabh Bhardwaj as another instance of central agencies being misused by the Modi government. He asserted that AAP is being unfairly targeted as it stands for being

What Happened and Why

ED Raid Saurabh Bhardwaj was carried out on August 26, 2025, with searches at 13 locations across Delhi-NCR, including the residence of former Delhi minister and AAP spokesperson Saurabh Bhardwaj. This was part of a money laundering probe linked to alleged financial irregularities in hospital construction projects worth approximately ₹5,590 crore during the AAP government’s prior term.

Unpacking the Allegations and the Hospital Scam

According to ED and ACB FIR records, the probe traces back to June 2025, involving delays, cost escalations, and unauthorized expenditure in 24 hospital projects.

The FIR, registered on June 26, 2025 (FIR No. 37/2025), targets Bhardwaj, Satyendra Jain, private contractors, and unknown officials.

Arvind Kejriwal’s Reaction, Agencies Misused

AAP national convenor and former Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal slammed the ED Raid Saurabh Bhardwaj as another instance of central agencies being misused by the Modi government. He asserted that AAP is being unfairly targeted as it stands for being “the most vocal voice against Modi government’s wrong policies and corrupt deeds.” Kejriwal emphasised: “No party has ever been targeted like this in history… AAP will not be intimidated.”.

AAP Leaders Strike Back, Fake Cases and Distraction Claims

Senior AAP leaders responded in kind:

• Manish Sisodia claimed the case against Bhardwaj is “false and baseless,” alleging it was filed before he became a minister. He further linked the raid to diversionary tactics away from the controversy surrounding PM Modi’s degree.
• Atishi, Delhi’s Leader of the Opposition, said the raid was clearly intended to divert national focus from the growing debate over PM Modi’s educational credentials, and cited the exoneration of Satyendar Jain as proof of politically motivated prosecutions.

BJP Celebrates the Raid, “Looting with Both Hands”

On the opposing front, BJP leaders welcomed the sweep. They accused the previous AAP government of “looting Delhi with both hands” through scams impacting hospital infrastructure. Some called the raid a long-overdue reckoning for alleged corruption..

New Delhi, Aug.26,2025:The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), representing over 15,000 dealers, has raised urgent concerns. Dealers are carrying heavy inventory, financed through short-term bank and NBFC loans with typical 45–60 day tranches

GST Cut Cars Changing the Festive Auto Landscape

GST Cut Cars are the talk of the nation as India’s car buyers hit pause, anticipating a tax-driven price drop. This shift in behaviours is transforming the festive season’s typical auto frenzy into a waiting game. With forecasts hanging in the balance, timely policy action is crucial to unlock demand and vitality in the automotive sector.

Why Buyers Are Holding Off – The Waiting Game

Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day announcement about GST reforms, consumers have largely delayed car purchases, expecting the GST Cut Cars to become cheaper by 8%–10%. This has triggered a sharp decline in sales and inquiries—many buyers are actively asking dealers about the exact tax cuts before deciding.

Vehicle showroom traffic is sluggish, and bookings are down—signaling a pause in consumer spending across cars, electronics, and appliances.

FADA Sounds the Alarm: Dealers Facing Inventory Stress

The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), representing over 15,000 dealers, has raised urgent concerns. Dealers are carrying heavy inventory, financed through short-term bank and NBFC loans with typical 45–60 day tranches. If GST Cut Cars don’t materialize soon, this could escalate costs and limit credit access for dealers.

FADA has appealed to the government to prepone the GST Council meeting—currently slated for September 3–4—and push for implementation before festive demand peaks.

Expected Tax Benefits: Calculated Savings for Buyers

The government is proposing to slash GST on small cars from 28% (plus cess) to 18%, aligning them with TVs, ACs, and appliances in the new lower slab—a large chunk of GST Cut Cars waiting to happen.

Estimates show major savings:

• Maruti Suzuki Wagon R: ₹60,000 reduction
• Baleno: ₹75,000
• Hyundai Creta: ₹55,000
• Mahindra XUV700: ₹1.15 lakh
  This translates into EMI reductions of ₹600–₹2,000.
  
  

Potential Impact on EV Momentum

While GST Cut Cars are becoming more affordable, concerns loom over electric vehicles (EVs). Currently, EVs enjoy a 5% GST rate. With ICE models entering the 18% bracket, the cost differential may shrink—potentially dampening growth in the EV sector.

Stock Market’s Positive Response

Equity markets have rallied on the GST reform hopes. On August 18, auto stocks surged—Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai jumped 8–9%, while consumer goods names gained 4–7%.

Retailers and e-commerce players are hopeful—projecting festive sales growth of 20–30%, provided the GST Cut Cars are implemented soon.

Urgent Measures

• Advance GST Council timeline: Pushing the meeting earlier can help implement the GST Cut Cars window ahead of Diwali.
  
  
• Provide dealer relief: Extend channel financing tranches by 30–45 days to mitigate credit stress.
  
  
• Clarify cess utilization: Clear guidelines on accumulated cess credits post-reform will ensure smoother transitions.
  
  

Diwali’s Potential Comeback

GST Cut Cars carry the promise to reignite India’s festive auto boom—if implemented swiftly. Dealers, carmakers, and consumers are caught in limbo. But with timely reforms, Diwali could still spark a rebound with renewed purchase enthusiasm and economic vitality. Until then, the market stays on standby, waiting for the tax relief that could unlock the festive revival.

New Delhi, Aug.26,2026:The raids were part of an intense money laundering investigation tied to allegations of mismanagement in Delhi’s hospital construction projects. An ECIR (Enforcement Case Information Report) was registered following an ACB-filed FIR in June

ED raid AAP Saurabh Bhardwaj shocks Delhi

ED raid AAP Saurabh Bhardwaj began the day with a thunderclap: on August 26, 2025, the Enforcement Directorate carried out coordinated searches at 13 locations across Delhi-NCR, including the residence of AAP leader and former Health Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj. The move has sent ripples through Indian political circles.

What triggered the ED raid?

The raids were part of an intense money laundering investigation tied to allegations of mismanagement in Delhi’s hospital construction projects. An ECIR (Enforcement Case Information Report) was registered following an ACB-filed FIR in June, reportedly exposing graft and inflated costs in public health contracts.

Details of the hospital construction probe

Key allegations in the probe center around:

• ₹5,590 crore sanctioned during 2018–19 for building 24 hospitals, now largely incomplete.
• One ICU hospital project: budget escalated from ₹488 crore to ₹1,135 crore, yet only 50% completed despite ₹800 crore spent.
• Allegations of unauthorized constructions, suspicious contractor roles, and stalling of a Hospital Information Management System (HIMS) since 2016.

Political fallout & fiery responses

BJP stands firm

Delhi BJP leaders welcomed the ED raid, asserting that the AAP government “looted Delhi with both hands” through corruption in public projects.

AAP pushes back hard

AAP leaders responded with blistering criticism:

• Atishi (on X) argued the raid is a political diversion, stating:
  “Are PM Modi’s degree allegations being distracted by chasing Saurabh Bhardwaj? This case is fake — he wasn’t even minister at that time.”
• Manish Sisodia: “When the entire country was discussing PM Modi’s fake degree, this ED raid is clearly to divert attention. This case is fake.”
• Arvind Kejriwal denounced the raids as misuse of central agencies to silence dissent, claiming:
  “No party in history has been targeted like this.”
• Sanjay Singh charged the case is baseless, alleging that:
  “To force us to bow, BJP is fabricating cases against AAP.” He accused the government of using agencies to “falsely prosecute” them.

Legal and procedural angles

• The raid was conducted under Section 17 of the PMLA, part of the investigation prompted by a June FIR from the Anti-Corruption Branch. The probe includes both public officials and private contractors.

Why this matters for Delhi and India

1. Public health stakes: Alleged misuse of ₹5,590 crore meant for hospital infrastructure directly affects citizens’ healthcare.
2. Erosion of trust: Projects partially completed despite massive costs can erode public faith in governance.
3. Pre-election dynamics: With political heat rising, opposition parties allege central overreach—raising urgent questions about institutional independence.

The ED raid AAP Saurabh Bhardwaj case has instantly become a flashpoint in national politics—raising profound questions about accountability, institutional autonomy, and political motivations. Whether the probe exposes genuine malfeasance or turns into another episode of political tit-for-tat, its impact on public perception may endure far beyond the investigation itself.

New Delhi, Aug.25,2025:In 2016, RTI activist Neeraj Kumar filed a request under the RTI Act seeking details of all students passed in DU’s BA exams of 1978—including roll numbers, names, marks, and results—coincidentally the year PM Modi graduated

PM Modi degree privacy ruling explained

PM Modi degree privacy ruling has now become a landmark legal benchmark. On August 25, 2025, the Delhi High Court formally set aside the Central Information Commission’s (CIC) 2016 order demanding disclosure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 1978 BA degree records from Delhi University (DU). This decision reasserts the sanctity of private academic records, even for public officials, as protected personal data.

RTI, CIC order, and DU’s challenge

The 2016 RTI Application

In 2016, RTI activist Neeraj Kumar filed a request under the RTI Act seeking details of all students passed in DU’s BA exams of 1978—including roll numbers, names, marks, and results—coincidentally the year PM Modi graduated.

CIC’s 2016 Directive

The CIC, in December 2016, ruled that universities are public bodies, and academic registers qualify as public documents. It directed DU to allow inspection of those records.

University’s Legal Stand

DU contested, asserting that:

• Information is held in a fiduciary capacity.
• Disclosure for mere curiosity contravenes RTI limitations.
• It had no problem providing records only in court, not for random public access.

The High Court Verdict

Justice Datta’s Rationales

Justice Sachin Datta of the Delhi High Court ruled in DU’s favor, quashing the CIC directive entirely.

Privacy vs. Public Curiosity

The court emphasized that being of public interest differs fundamentally from public curiosity. Educational qualifications—even of the Prime Minister—fall under protected personal information as per Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act.

Legal Principles and Fiduciary Duty

Academic Records as Personal Data

Academic records—such as marks, grades, roll numbers—are inherently personal and cannot be disclosed without compelling public interest. The court stressed the confidential nature of such data.

Fiduciary Trust at Play

The judgment recognized the fiduciary relationship between students and the university, comparable to doctor–patient trust. Disclosure to strangers, for no substantive reason, would violate that trust.

Implications of the Ruling

Setting Precedent on Privacy

This verdict reinforces that even public figures retain fundamental privacy in their personal data. It underscores that RTI is not an open door to satisfying sensational queries.

RTI Limits Reasserted

The court reaffirmed that the RTI Act is not a tool for trivial intrusion—particularly when longstanding exemptions like fiduciary confidentiality apply.

Politics, Privacy, and Precedent

• Political Lens: This ruling could silence persistent demands to publicly audit PM educational credentials.
• Academic Boundaries: Institutions may now lean on fiduciary support to shield student records from undue intrusion.
• Future Cases: Especially relevant for public figures, the decision sets a high bar for “public interest” claims.

Why this PM Modi degree privacy ruling matters now

The PM Modi degree privacy ruling is far more than a procedural win—it’s a statement: personal academic qualifications remain protected, even under RTI. By reaffirming privacy over curiosity, the High Court has struck a balance between transparency and rights. This precedent now stands as a guiding principle in India’s legal-privacy landscape.

New Delhi, Aug.25,2025:Jagdeep Dhankhar served as India’s 14th Vice President from August 11, 2022, until his unexpected resignation on July 21, 2025. A seasoned lawyer turned politician

Dhankhar resignation health reasons take spotlight

Dhankhar resignation health reasons dominate headlines today. After a dramatic mid-term resignation, Union Home Minister Amit Shah attributes the decision purely to medical concerns. Yet the void left by former Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s sudden absence has fueled political debate and speculative intrigue.

Who is Jagdeep Dhankhar?

Jagdeep Dhankhar served as India’s 14th Vice President from August 11, 2022, until his unexpected resignation on July 21, 2025. A seasoned lawyer turned politician, he previously held key roles, including Governor of West Bengal and Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs.

What Officially Happened

Health History and Prior Alerts

Dhankhar cited prioritizing healthcare and following medical advice as the reason for his resignation under Article 67(a) of the Constitution. Notably, he faced real health issues earlier—hospitalized at AIIMS for cardiac concerns in March, and fainting at a public event in Uttarakhand in June—lending credence to his health-related claims.

Timeline of the Resignation

His resignation came as a surprise on the opening day of the Monsoon Session (July 21), two years before his term was set to expire.

President Droupadi Murmu accepted it immediately.

 “Health Reasons” Clarified

Dismissing ‘House Arrest’ Rumours

Today, on August 25, 2025, Amit Shah addressed widespread speculation, pointing to the clarity in Dhankhar’s resignation letter and stating it was for health reasons alone. He explicitly rejected rumors of Dhankhar being under “house arrest”, urging the public not to overdramatize the situation.

Media Coverage and Reactions

Media outlets echoed Shah’s message, calling the opposition’s accusations “baseless” and describing Shah’s remarks as an effort to “clear the air” around growing curiosity and conspiracy theories.

Mystery Deepens

Congress and Opposition Demands

Opposition leaders remain unconvinced. Congress’s Jairam Ramesh called the sudden silence “deepening the mystery”. Trinamool raised questions in Parliament, while the CPI even wrote to Dhankhar seeking clarity on his disappearance.

Dhankhar’s Post-Resignation Life

Reports since then offer glimpses of Dhankhar’s off-life—playing table tennis and focusing on yoga—painting a picture of someone retreating for wellness, not under duress.

What Could Be Behind The Silence?

Theories abound:

• Sincere health breakdown: Given his recent medical episodes, the resignation could stem from genuine health needs.
• Political pressure: Some allege his departure was orchestrated to sideline potential dissent ahead of critical constitutional decisions.
• Media and timing: The 15-hour delay before a government response raised eyebrows and fed speculation.

Vice-President Elections & Political Implications

Dhankhar’s exit also triggered a competitive VP election scheduled for September 9. NDA has nominated CP Radhakrishnan, while the Opposition has fielded Justice B Sudershan Reddy. Analysts note the reshuffle may have strategic benefits for the ruling party’s positioning.

Dhankhar resignation health reasons or something more?

In essence, Dhankhar resignation health reasons remains the official narrative. Amit Shah’s reassurances and Dhankhar’s quiet, wellness-focused retreats support that. Yet, political undercurrents and the layer of silence continue to fuel debate. Whether this turns out to be a health-motivated departure or an event with deeper implications, the topic is unlikely to fade until the new Vice President takes oath.

New Delhi, Aug.23,2025:Jaishankar’s pointed comeback—“If you don’t like it, don’t buy it”—served as a powerful assertion of India’s right to independent trade decisions

India-Russia Oil Dispute: Unpacking the Buzz

The India-Russia Oil Dispute erupted into the spotlight when U.S. officials accused India of profiting from Russian oil—alleging that India had become a refining “laundromat,” indirectly funding Russia amid the Ukraine war. At the Economic Times World Leaders Forum 2025, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar responded forcefully, defending India’s sovereign energy choices.

 “If you don’t like it, don’t buy it” — Sovereignty First

Jaishankar’s pointed comeback—“If you don’t like it, don’t buy it”—served as a powerful assertion of India’s right to independent trade decisions. He criticized those in a “pro-business American administration” for meddling in India’s affairs.

Energy Strategy Is Global, Not Just Indian

Beyond national priorities, Jaishankar emphasized that India’s Russian oil purchases also contributed to global energy stability. In 2022, amidst surging prices, allowing India to import Russian crude helped calm markets worldwide.

Tariffs and Trade Talks — India Holds the Red Lines

With the U.S. imposing up to 50% tariffs on Indian goods tied to energy policy, Jaishankar reiterated that while trade discussions with Washington continue, India will not compromise on protecting farmers, small producers, and its strategic autonomy.

Double Standards—Not Just About India

Jaishankar called out the hypocrisy in targeting India alone. Critics have ignored that larger energy importers, including China and the EU, have not faced similar reproach for their Russian oil purchases.

No Third-Party in Indo-Pak Ceasefire

Amid U.S. claims of mediating the 2025 India–Pakistan ceasefire, Jaishankar made it clear that India rejects any third-party intervention. A national consensus has existed for over 50 years—India handles its ties with Pakistan bilaterally.

Operation Sindoor and Direct Military De-escalation

Regarding Operation Sindoor, launched after the April 22 Pahalgam attack, Jaishankar confirmed that the cessation of hostilities resulted directly from military-to-military discussions. There were no links to trade or external pressure.

U.S. Ceasefire Claims and Indian Rebuttal

While the U.S. touted its role in brokering the ceasefire—via President Trump, VP Vance, and Secretary Rubio—India maintained the outcome was reached bilaterally and without diplomatic backdoor deals.

What Lies Ahead for the India-Russia Oil Dispute?

The India-Russia Oil Dispute unveils deeper geopolitical crosscurrents. It reflects India’s balancing act—asserting sovereignty over energy choices while defending national interests in the face of mounting foreign pressure. Simultaneously, India’s unwavering stance on ceasefire diplomacy reinforces its preference for autonomy over dependency. As global tensions simmer and trade spat heats up, India’s resolve and strategic clarity remain unmistakable.