Riya Writes

 The passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, marks the end of a defining chapter in South Asian politics. At the age of 80, she remained a towering figure whose leadership shaped decades of political life in Bangladesh. As the first woman to hold the office of Prime Minister in her nation, her political career was marked by historic moments, fierce rivalries, and profound influence on democratic processes. India Today NE Khaleda Zia’s leadership transcended national politics and touched the dynamics of regional cooperation. A photo shared by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi from their 2015 meeting captures a moment of warmth and mutual respect, showcasing how personal diplomacy can reflect broader ties between India and Bangladesh. It reminds us that neighbouring countries with shared histories can work together for common goals. The Indian Express For many Indians, her death is not just news — it ...

 Dubai’s safety isn’t accidental; it’s built into the system. From strict laws to smart surveillance, everything works towards one goal — public order and trust. And that trust is visible in daily life. In Dubai, laws are not suggestions — they are rules. Harassment, public nuisance, unsafe driving, or violating privacy laws can lead to heavy fines or jail time. This creates discipline. People think twice before crossing the line, and that mindset itself makes the city safer. What impressed me as an Indian was how responsive the system is. Police patrols are visible, emergency helplines work fast, and digital reporting makes it easier for residents to seek help. Women, tourists, and expats all feel equally protected because enforcement doesn’t depend on influence or status. Another key factor is accountability. Taxes, fines, and regulations serve a purpose — maintaining infrastructure, security, and public services. People may pay fines, but they also see results on the ground. ...

 The Union Cabinet’s approval of the CoalSETU policy marks a major milestone in India’s energy journey. Designed as a unified digital window, CoalSETU aims to make coal utilisation seamless, efficient, and transparent , addressing long-standing challenges within the coal ecosystem. At its core, the policy focuses on improving the Ease of Doing Business for industries dependent on coal. By simplifying procedures and enhancing accessibility, CoalSETU will help companies obtain coal more smoothly and at competitive rates. This move is expected to increase operational efficiency while reducing bottlenecks in supply. A crucial benefit of CoalSETU lies in its potential to significantly boost domestic coal availability . With industries gaining better access to locally sourced coal, India can reduce its dependence on costly coal imports , saving valuable foreign exchange. Strengthening domestic coal utilisation not only supports energy-intensive sectors but also aligns with India’s br...

 India’s growing engagement with the European Union took another meaningful step forward as European Trade & Economic Security Commissioner Maros Šefčovič visited New Delhi for high-level discussions. The meeting marks a crucial moment in India–EU relations, especially at a time when the global economy is evolving and nations are focusing on resilient supply chains, secure trade routes, and sustainable growth models. Commissioner Šefčovič’s visit reflects the EU’s recognition of India as a pivotal economic and strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific region. With India emerging as one of the fastest-growing major economies, the scope for collaboration is wider than ever—ranging from green technologies and digital innovation to secure trade frameworks and investments. The conversations are expected to push forward ongoing negotiations on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) , an ambitious deal that could unlock unprecedented market access, strengthen regulatory cooperation, a...

 When catastrophe hits, what matters is not just aid — but the speed and sincerity with which it arrives. In the wake of the devastation triggered by Cyclone Ditwah, our neighbouring country Sri Lanka found a steadfast friend in the Indian Army. Under Operation SagarBandhu, India sprang into action: three Bailey Bridges were swiftly dispatched from the Engineer Stores Depot in Delhi Cantonment, airlifted to Colombo, and transported onward — all in just 48 hours . Over eighty trucks worked round-the-clock to load and transport the bridge components, underscoring India’s resolve to deliver relief without delay. What stands out is not just logistical efficiency, but a heartfelt commitment: these bridges are meant to reconnect communities, restore vital access, and support Sri Lankan families during an urgent crisis. What this gesture signifies goes beyond bricks and steel. It reflects a deeper ethos — that when neighbours are in distress, help doesn’t wait. India’s prompt response ...

 The Aravalli Range, one of the world’s oldest mountain systems, has stood as a natural shield for millions—protecting North India from desertification, supporting wildlife, recharging groundwater, and maintaining ecological balance. But today, this ancient range faces an unprecedented threat. A new policy that exempts hills under 100 metres from mining regulations has opened the doors for widespread exploitation—placing nearly 90% of the Aravallis at risk . This policy loophole has empowered illegal miners, who can now flatten hills just enough to bring them under the 100m threshold and continue operations with little to no oversight. What remains is not development, but destruction—vanished hills, plummeting groundwater levels, shrinking forests, and rising pollution. The consequences extend far beyond biodiversity loss. The Aravallis act as a critical green barrier preventing the Thar Desert from advancing toward Delhi-NCR. Weakening this shield means worsening air quality, in...