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Hindustan Times
14 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
Anatomy of the budding India-China bonhomie
Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi's just concluded visit to India and the agreement between the two sides on the India-China boundary question is an encouraging sign in mending the relationship between the two countries, which has been struggling to normalise since the border standoff in 2020. Wang Yi's visit to Delhi and the agreement outlining several measures to manage the contested border ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's planned trip to China for the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit also reflect broader changes occurring in geopolitics. The India-China dynamics must also be read in conjunction with the engagement of the two countries with Russia. The three-way conversations involving Russia, India, and China are noteworthy as it is reflective of the broader regional geopolitical realignments in response to US policies towards them. In an ideal world, New Delhi would prefer to see Chinese power balanced by the US and/or Russia. (AFP) External affairs minister S Jaishankar is now in Russia. For both India and China (as also for Russia), the three-way conversations present an excellent opportunity to signal to Washington that there are possibilities of alternative global blocs and realignments outside of Washington's orbit and influence. What is perhaps more important and consequential are the underlying causes behind the current bonhomie between India and China. Beyond the optics, it is also evident that both India and China are eager to achieve a degree of normalcy in their relationship. The statement from the ministry of external affairs on the outcomes of Wang's India visit testifies to that. It is, therefore, possible to argue that there is a convergence between New Delhi and Beijing on the need to normalise bilateral relations. However, their respective definitions of normalcy are different. For China, normalcy means moving on from the current border impasse with India and focussing on the global balance of power. As Wang said, 'We (India and China) should never allow bilateral relations to be defined by the boundary question or specific differences to affect the overall picture of our bilateral ties.' Without normalcy with India, China knows that it will not be in a position to leverage Indian unhappiness with US President Donald Trump for its own larger geopolitical purposes. In other words, China seeks to exploit the current opportunity to challenge the US's global supremacy, and for that purpose, normalcy with India would be helpful. But the question is whether Beijing is willing to engage in sustained give-and-take negotiations with New Delhi to settle the border issue. For New Delhi, normalcy with China is centred on disengagement at the border so that it can focus on the larger geopolitical questions of India-China relations, India-China-Russia dynamics, and so on. For India, normalcy on the border and status quo ante bellum as of 2020 is key. China's global objectives behind the current warmth towards India should not be missed. Wang stated recently that 'as important members of the Global South, we have the responsibility to take the lead in opposing hegemonism and power politics'. There is little doubt that China would want to use India and Russia, and the Global South, to target the US-led world order. However, let's be clear. If Trump offers a G-2 with China, Beijing is likely to settle for it, sacrificing its secondary geopolitical equations. A similar logic extends to Russia as well. Moscow would vociferously promote the virtues of an alternative world order outside of the US orbit, but what it wants is to be recognised and treated by Washington and Europe as a great power and be accommodated within the European balance of power system, rather than being part of a China-led global order. As for India, it will continue to emphasise the importance of the Global South, multipolarity, and global alternatives, but New Delhi is not comfortable being part of a China-led, Russia-backed, non-American world order. If India is accommodated into a US-led world order as an important stakeholder, New Delhi is likely to accept that. In an ideal world, New Delhi would prefer to see Chinese power balanced by the US and/or Russia. However, since these options are not currently available, it is inclined to settle for underbalancing China, given its lack of capacity to balance Beijing on its own. In that sense, the three countries – India, China, and Russia – are hedging against geopolitical uncertainties and opting for their respective second-best options. This essential geopolitical dynamic should not be lost on our policymakers. In the meantime, and notwithstanding the deep mistrust between the two countries, India needs to engage with China for two key reasons. For India, conflict management with China is a key issue, as the fundamental contradictions in the relationship are unlikely to disappear soon. Therefore, it is essential to establish and strengthen confidence-building measures (CBMs) to manage Sino-Indian tensions. In that sense, the recent agreements are in the right direction. A no less important reason for India to engage with China on a sustained basis is that managing the relationship with Beijing — its rise as a global power and ambitions for superpower status, aggressive pursuit of its territorial ambitions, and attempts at unipolarity in Asia — is going to be India's most crucial task for the next several decades. From that perspective alone, New Delhi will need to engage productively with Beijing. Happymon Jacob is the founder and director of the Council for Strategic and Defense Research and the editor of INDIA'S WORLD magazine. The views expressed are personal
Business Standard
14 minutes ago
- Business Standard
Meet India's 10 Fastest-Rising Companies to Watch in 2025
PNN New Delhi [India], August 20: India's business landscape is witnessing a surge of innovation, with rising brands setting new benchmarks in creativity, resilience, and growth. From disruptive startups to purpose-driven ventures, these companies are not just succeeding but reshaping industries. Their stories highlight the spirit of entrepreneurship powering India's future economy. 1. Entrepreneur Business Times Now emerging as India's premier online business news portal proudly announces the launch of its monthly digital business magazine-- a bold new platform created for entrepreneurs, startup founders, CXOs, CEO, modern business leaders, and decision-makers across India. Built on the pillars of credibility, visibility, and trust, this platform delivers impactful business content, feature story, startup spotlight, CXO talks, business insights, young leaders / women in business, investor outlook, SME section, market insights and expert columns. Focused on entrepreneurs, CXOs, and startups, Entrepreneur Business Times positions itself as India's top digital business portal for new-age business voices. For more information visit here : 2. Infomint Solutions Powering Digital Growth with Strategy & Storytelling Led by visionary founder Deepak Chaudhary, Faridabad-based Infomint Solutions is redefining digital marketing with content that not only looks great but delivers real impact. Specializing in video production, social media management, and performance-driven marketing, the agency has produced over 5000+ high-quality videos for brands across industries. Their new Monthly Growth Pack offers businesses a powerful, budget-friendly content strategy for online scaling. With a deep understanding of Indian audiences and a client base spanning startups to real estate giants, Infomint is poised to shape the next era of brand storytelling. For more information visit here : 3 . Hillson Footwear Pvt. Ltd. Is one of India's largest manufacturers and exporters of industrial safety shoes and gumboots, backed by over four decades of expertise. Starting with the iconic gumboot, the company made a strategic shift 15 years ago to focus on high-performance safety shoes, which now form the core of its operations. As a family-owned business, Hillson blends legacy with innovation, producing approximately 25,000 pairs of safety footwear daily. Its people-centric approach, commitment to quality, and continuous product innovation drive steady growth. With a strong global presence and a product range known for durability and reliability, Hillson remains a trusted name, delivering safety solutions to various industries worldwide. For more information visit here : 4. Whitesand Holidays Andaman's Trusted Travel Expert Founded by Fayaz Nissar, Whitesand Holidays is a Port Blair-based travel agency redefining tourism in the Andaman Islands with local expertise and reliable service. Offering tailor-made B2C and B2B travel solutions, the company handles everything from ferry tickets to curated sightseeing for families, honeymooners, and groups. Their edge lies in being on-ground--ensuring faster coordination, flexible customization, and authentic experiences. With 1000+ successful bookings, growing media recognition, and a loyal client base across India, Whitesand Holidays continues to elevate island travel with offbeat itineraries and unmatched hospitality. For more information visit here : 5. Chettinad Cement Cementing India's Future with Strength and Sustainability With an impressive legacy of 63 years, Chettinad Cement continues to lead as one of India's most trusted and influential cement brands. Renowned for its superior strength, eco-friendly innovation, and consistent quality, the brand has powered iconic infrastructure and everyday homes alike. Chettinad's commitment to sustainable construction and cutting-edge concrete technology sets it apart in a rapidly evolving industry. As India builds smarter and greener, Chettinad Cement stands as a beacon of reliability and vision--shaping skylines and supporting dreams, one structure at a time. For more information visit here : 6. PRessence 360 PRessence 360: Soumadeep Mondal's Unconventional Take on PR in 2025 At just 19, Soumadeep Mondal is transforming the public relations game. Through his agencies, PRessence 360 and Acquisitions 360, he's rejecting outdated PR tactics in favor of transparent, results-driven models--PRMA (Public Relations Marketing Agency) and PRDA (Press Release Distribution Agency). Instead of expensive retainers with uncertain outcomes, Soumadeep links fees directly to measurable ROI, making high-quality PR accessible for startups and small businesses. The approach works--both agencies have hit seven-figure revenues without outside funding, serving top-tier clients from Tai Lopez to billion-dollar, government-backed corporations like AEPT. More than just securing media coverage, his systems streamline operations, build brand equity, and prove that PR can be faster, fairer, and more impactful. In 2025, PRessence 360 isn't just an agency--it's a blueprint for the future of the industry. For more information visit here : 7. THE SPIRIT HUNTERS The Spirit Hunters 357, founded by Guru Maa Ankita K. and supported by Dr. Akshay K.V, is a Uttarakhand-based organization offering a unique blend of scientific psychology and metaphysical healing. Specializing in aura protection, chakra balancing, and the removal of negative energies, the team uses non-superstitious, mantra-based and scientific methods to help individuals combat paranormal disturbances and mental imbalances. Recognized internationally and honored by Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the company also researches metaphysical phenomena and energy fields to debunk myths and advance awareness. Their mission is to heal minds and energies--scientifically, spiritually, and authentically. For more information visit here : 8. Dr. Jawahar Surisetti Championing India's Skill-First Education Future Renowned psychologist, education reformer, and bestselling author, Dr. Jawahar Surisetti has been appointed the first Vice Chancellor of RISU--India's pioneering skills university in Chhattisgarh. Known for innovations like the Think Curriculum and digital wellness tools like Happea and Apprison, he blends global insights with grassroots impact. From policy reform to empowering millions of youth, Dr. Surisetti is transforming education to prioritize purpose, peace, and productivity. Under his leadership, RISU aims to bridge the gap between academia and employability through AI, entrepreneurship, and emotional intelligence. For more information visit here : 9. The symphony club. Gurugram, 28 June 2025 -- Rhythm Hotels & Resorts officially introduced The Symphony Club, an exclusive initiative designed to build a community of visionary minds across industries. Hosted at Rhythm Gurugram, the private event brought together select patrons, unit owners, and well-wishers for an evening of connection and reflection. Far from commercial, the gathering was an invitation-only experience centered around shared values, ideas, and meaningful dialogue. A soulful Sufi performance by Farhan Sabir and a vibrant percussion act elevated the atmosphere. The Symphony Club marks Rhythm's commitment to creating a high-trust, non-transactional forum for growth and collaboration. For more information visit here : 10. Aspire Study Has solidified its position as the Best NIMCET Coaching and Best MCA Coaching in India with an outstanding 555+ selections in NIMCET 2025, CUET PG MCA 2025, and MAH MCA CET 2025. Notably, Ayush Garg achieved AIR 2 in NIMCET, AIR 1 in CUET PG MCA, and a perfect 100 percentile in MAH MCA CET. Aspire also mentored 27+ students under AIR 100 and 45+ CUET scorers with 200+ marks. With structured teaching, expert faculty, and personalized mentorship, Aspire Study continues to empower students nationwide, guiding them to top ranks and premier MCA institutes year after year. For more information visit here : As these 10 rising companies make their mark, they remind us that vision, passion, and perseverance remain the true drivers of success. Each brand represents more than profit--it represents progress, purpose, and possibility. Together, they inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs shaping India's business legacy.
Mint
14 minutes ago
- Mint
Starlink partners with UIDAI: To use Aadhaar for quick, KYC-compliant customer verification process — here's all we know
Billionaire Elon Musk's Starlink Satellite Communication has partnered with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to enable a 'quick and KYC-compliant' process for customers in India. In an official statement on August 20, the Ministry of Electronics & IT said that the satellite internet provider will use Aadhaar-based verification to onboard customers in India, promising a 'smooth, secure and very easy' process. The ministry release added that Aadhaar's face authentication solution is gaining faster momentum due to its ease of usage and convenience for Aadhaar number holders. Use of Aadhaar, one of the most trusted digital identity systems, will ensure that Starlink's customer onboarding is 'quick, paperless, and compliant with Know Your Customer (KYC) norms', as per the ministry statement. The partnership signifies synergy between India's trusted digital identity joining hands with global satellite technology, the statement added. Aadhaar e-KYC will facilitate the onboarding of users seamlessly, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements while delivering high-speed internet to households, businesses, and institutions. Aadhaar authentication by users will happen on a voluntary basis as per the existing rules. The ministry in its statement added that the use of Aadhaar authentication by a global satellite internet provider 'demonstrates the scalability and reliability of India's digital infrastructure'. 'It highlights how Aadhaar can enable innovation in service delivery while ensuring transparency and accountability,' it added. The statement noted that the appointment of Starlink Satellite Communication as a Sub-Authentication User Agency and Sub-eKYC user agency was done in the presence of CEO UIDAI Sh Bhuvnesh Kumar; Deputy Director General UIDAI Sh Manish Bhardwaj and Parnil Urdhwareshe, Director, Starlink India. On August 1, Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia confirmed that the Elon Musk-led company has received approval to roll out satellite-based internet services in India. He added that Starlink has been granted a Unified Licence by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). Starlink joins other players in the satcom space such as Bharti Group-backed Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio SES, both of which are also awaiting spectrum allocation to commence operations.
