Rajasthan Consumer Panel Fines Jaipur Shop for Illegal Bill Round-Off

NHAI wins Rs 1,202-crore arbitration award in Karnataka highway dispute

Bessent's US Economic Statecraft Doctrine Poses Difficult Choices for India

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently outlined what he calls American economic statecraft in a Wall Street Journal opinion piece. The doctrine sets out Washington's approach to using economic tools as instruments of foreign policy. Analysts suggest the framework could create significant strategic dilemmas for India. New Delhi may face pressure to align more closely with US economic priorities, potentially complicating its traditionally independent foreign policy stance.

Europe Heatwave Claims Over 1,300 Lives as Infrastructure Buckles Under Heat

A severe heatwave has been gripping Europe, causing widespread damage to infrastructure and a significant rise in deaths. The World Health Organization reported more than 1,300 excess deaths linked to high temperatures across the continent since June 21. The extreme heat has been intense enough to melt road surfaces and warp tram tracks in affected cities. The crisis highlights the growing public health and infrastructure risks posed by prolonged heat events in Europe.

Tier-II cities to fuel 19-20% annual growth in affordable housing finance by FY28

Affordable housing finance companies are projected to grow their assets at 19-20% annually through FY28, according to a recent report. This growth is primarily expected to be driven by rising demand in smaller tier-II cities, improved housing affordability, and financing needs of small businesses. While home loans are anticipated to expand steadily, loans against property are forecast to grow at a faster pace. However, lenders are exercising caution on smaller ticket-size loans due to stress experienced in that segment in the past.