Diversify now

February's sharp rise in the monthly services Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI), to 59, has provided a welcome relief to investors and policymakers, following the rise in GDP growth numbers, released by the National Statistical Office (NSO) for the December quarter of the current fiscal (Q3FY25). 

Inclusion in public spaces - from fear to freedom

India is often considered to be one of the most unsafe countries for women, a reality that demands urgent and deliberate change. India was ranked 128 among 177 countries rated in the Women, Peace and Security Index 2023. While deeply entrenched patriarchal norms that lead to violence cannot be dismantled overnight, meaningful progress can be made by challenging the everyday barriers that women face. On International Women's Day today, it is crucial to reflect on a fundamental but often-ignored issue - the accessibility of public spaces for women.

An equitable future for women in science, in India

Women in science navigate a minefield of challenges that often start early. Educational barriers, such as limited access to quality schools and gendered societal norms, can discourage girls from pursuing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). For those who persist and are fortunate to get past these early hurdles, cultural expectations frequently demand that they prioritise family over careers, severely jeopardising professional growth. Gender stereotypes further restrict opportunities, affecting hiring, promotions and funding. Harassment and discrimination in academic settings add another dimension of hostility that push many women out of the field.

Plight of prisoners with disabilities needs attention: SC

The Supreme Court said a petition highlighting the trauma and inhumane conditions suffered by Professor G.N. Saibaba and the elderly Stan Swamy raised a "serious" issue about the lack of disabled-friendly accommodation and facilities in prisons across the country. 

EVs display resilience in Feb.

At a time when all segments of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles have re-ported a 7% slump in retail sales, most segments of electric vehicles (EVs) have reported growth, except for two-wheelers.

The total number of EVS sold in February 2025, however, was down 2% to 1,39,026 units compared with 1,41,743 units retailed a year earlier.

Boost value addition in spices to achieve $10-bn export target by 2030: WSO

Regardless of being the lar-gest producer and exporter of diverse varieties of spices in the world, India's share in the global seasoning market, pegged at $14 billion in 2024, is only a paltry 0.7%, against China's 12% and U.S.'s 11%, said Ramkumar Menon, chairman, The World Spice Organisation (WSO).