Kiran Sharma

Hey everyone!  Have you heard the latest from Dubai? Jebel Ali Port has just set an impressive new record, and it’s definitely worth a shout-out! Record-Breaking July In a month that’s usually known for its hustle and bustle, July 2024 was extra special for Jebel Ali Port. The port handled a whopping 1.4 million TEUs (that’s Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) in July, smashing a nine-year-old record set back in 2015. A Strong Start to 2024 The port’s impressive performance in July is part of a bigger trend. For the first half of 2024, Jebel Ali Port managed 7.3 million TEUs, up 3.9% from last year. This uptick is largely thanks to increased cargo from major Asian markets like India China, Japan, and South Korea. Looks like our friends from Asia are keeping Dubai’s port bustling! Why It Matters Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, the Chairman and CEO of DP World Group, put it perfectly: “Jebel Ali Port is one of the largest and most efficient ports in the world. It’s a cornerstone of our global ne...

Today marks a significant milestone in India's maritime history as the nation launches its largest deep-water port in Vadhavan, Maharashtra. This monumental project is set to revolutionize India's shipping and trade industries, reinforcing the country's status as a global maritime power. Vadhavan Port: A New Maritime Hub Located on the picturesque coastline of Maharashtra, Vadhavan Port is poised to become the biggest and most advanced port in India. This deep-water port, strategically positioned to cater to the increasing demands of international trade, is designed to handle the largest container ships in the world. With a draft depth of 20 meters, Vadhavan Port can accommodate ultra-large vessels, ensuring seamless and efficient cargo handling. Strategic Significance Vadhavan Port's location in Maharashtra is of immense strategic importance. Maharashtra, with its thriving industrial sector and proximity to key international shipping routes, is an ideal location for su...

The UAE continues to be a ray of hope in a world where women ’s efforts are most of the time underestimated. The UAE has fine breed of women who vigorously challenged the norm and gave their best output in their respective fields. Here, we present to you five powerful Emirati women who are already role models to other women across the globe. Dr. Amal Al Qubaisi: Prologue of Political Leadership The name of Dr. Amal Al Qubaisi is considered to be legendary when it comes to leadership in the political life of the UAE. Having been the first woman to take up the position of the President of the FNC from UAE, Dr. Al Qubaisi’s career has always been a demonstration of her potentials and drive. She has not only brought change by increasing the numbers of women in governance but also paved way for women in policy making. Dr. Al Qubaisi messages are not to underestimate the power to break the barriers and change the world which her actions still encourage women to strive for a leadership role i...

Introduction In a significant move marking an expansion of its global footprint , Adani Group has announced the incorporation of a new power company in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This strategic development highlights Adani's commitment to strengthening its presence in key international markets and reflects the growing synergies between Indian and UAE economic interests. The new venture will focus on power generation, infrastructure, and related fields, underscoring the UAE's importance as a crucial hub for investment and development in the energy sector. Adani's New Power Company in UAE Adani Group's entry into the UAE's power sector comes at a time when the UAE is actively seeking to diversify its energy sources and invest in sustainable infrastructure. The newly incorporated company will be instrumental in advancing this vision, bringing Adani's expertise in power generation and infrastructure to the UAE. This move aligns with the UAE's broader strate...

The UAE is reportedly Africa’s second largest investment partner having invested about $60 billion into the continent in the last decade. The heavy investment in the deal show the Emirati’s continued intention to boost relations with African nations through development in various fields. It is now time to unpack the main focal sectors of these investments, and the implications of such for Africa and UAE. Infrastructure Development Infrastructure is one of the major sectors that have received a lot of investment attention from the UAE in Africa. The UAE has greatly supported Africa in its financial aspect, thus helping build better and necessary structures as required for development. Key projects include: Ethiopia Bole International Airport Upgrade: This major infrastructural development plan is to provide the much-needed boost in connectivity of the country of Ethiopia to the rest of Africa and the world. Port Facilities: Expansion of the facilities within the ports of Africa is enha...

Four prominent Indian ministers—Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw—made a significant joint call on Singapore's President. This high-level engagement underscored the deepening strategic partnership between India and Singapore, emphasizing collaboration in finance, trade, technology, and diplomacy. The Meeting: A Showcase of India-Singapore Relations The visit highlighted the multifaceted relationship between the two nations. The ministers discussed key issues ranging from economic cooperation to technological advancements, reflecting the importance of Singapore as a vital partner in India's Act East policy. This policy is designed to strengthen ties with Southeast Asia, and Singapore's role as a financial hub and gateway to the ASEAN region makes it a crucial ally for India. Economic and Financial Collaboration Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman'...

India is set to commemorate its first National Space Day, a significant milestone celebrating a year since the historic landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the lunar south pole. This achievement not only marks a pivotal moment in India's space exploration history but also highlights the country's rapid advancements and ambitious future in space technology. A Historic Landing On August 23, 2023, India achieved a groundbreaking feat with Chandrayaan-3's successful landing on the lunar south pole, making it the first country to reach this challenging terrain. This milestone was a testament to India's growing prowess in space exploration, underscoring its commitment to pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and technological innovation. Rapid Advancements in Space Exploration Despite being a relative newcomer to the field of space exploration, India has demonstrated impressive progress over the years. The Chandrayaan-3 mission was a significant leap forward, following the p...

In a significant development for India's Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), UAE-based Non-Resident Indian (NRI), Hari Gupta, has announced a substantial financial commitment of ₹100 crore. This investment is set to provide a much-needed boost to SMEs, which form the backbone of India's economy, contributing significantly to employment and GDP. A Lifeline for SMEs in India The SME sector in India has long been a critical driver of economic growth, providing employment to millions and fostering innovation across industries. However, despite their importance, SMEs often face challenges in securing the necessary capital for expansion and modernization. The infusion of ₹100 crore from Hari Gupta aims to address this gap, offering SMEs the financial support they need to scale operations, invest in new technologies, and compete in global markets. The Vision of Hari Gupta Hari Gupta, a successful entrepreneur and investor based in the UAE, has a deep-rooted connection to India and a ...

  Introduction Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal recently extended a warm invitation to Malaysian businesses, encouraging them to explore investment opportunities in India's burgeoning oil, gas, and electronics sectors. This call for investment underscores India's commitment to expanding its economic partnerships and leveraging international expertise to fuel its growth in these critical industries. India's Growing Oil and Gas Sector India's oil and gas sector is undergoing a significant transformation as the country aims to reduce its dependence on imported energy and enhance domestic production capabilities. With a vast reserve of untapped resources and ongoing technological advancements, the sector offers a wealth of opportunities for Malaysian investors. The Indian government is actively working on various projects to improve exploration, production, and infrastructure in this sector. Investment in oil refining, natural gas distribution, and the dev...

In a significant move aimed at boosting economic collaboration and reducing dependency on major currencies like the US Dollar, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has urged Indian lenders to settle trade transactions with the UAE in local currencies. This strategic shift is set to redefine the financial dynamics of bilateral trade between India and the UAE. Why Local Currency Settlement? The decision to encourage local currency settlement stems from several key factors: Reducing Exchange Rate Risks: By using local currencies, businesses can avoid the volatility and risks associated with fluctuating exchange rates. This can lead to more stable financial planning and cost management for companies engaged in international trade. Strengthening Bilateral Ties: Settling trade in local currencies is expected to enhance the economic ties between India and the UAE. It reflects a mutual commitment to deepening trade relations and reducing reliance on third-party currencies, which can sometimes be af...

Introduction In an indication of bilateral and personal relationships, the President of UAE has recently paid a courtesy call on the Afghan Prime Minister who is admitted in the hospital in UAE receiving treatment. This compassionate move shows that there has always an infant relationship between the two nations of friendship and solidarity. A Gesture of Generosity The UAE President’s visit to the Afghan Prime Minister is one of the most touching examples of how, despite the conflict and enmity, people can be polite and even caring to each other being on different sides of the conflict. When the Afghan Prime Minister is getting treatment, the visit of the UAE President is a very strong sign of solidarity. This visit should not be perceived just as a courtesy call; it is a proof of a friendly and willing UAE ready to help when the time comes. Expression of Appreciation The Afghan Prime Minister has also officially conveyed his deep thanks for this meritorious gesture. It is not only an ...

The UAE has further strengthened its position as the largest Arab investor in Egypt position highlighting the enhancement of the bilateral relations based on bilateral economic cooperation between the two states. Capping this was the National Dialogue and the subsequent declaration of the Investment Committee’s Rapporteur wherein the investments of the UAE was established to be an indispensable component in the development of the Egyptian economy. Strategic Investment Areas The UAE investment is Egypt investment types which touch on various sectors and subsectors including real estate, infrastructure and Information Technology. These sectors are not only important in the Egyptian economy but are also part of the diversification of the UAE economy. Real Estate: Various residential, commercial and mixed-use projects in Egypt have benefitted from the UAE investments to acquire development projects in this country. Such projects have not only made the outlines of Egyptian cities more appea...

The financial landscape is evolving rapidly, with blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies playing a pivotal role in this transformation. Recently, India made headlines by conducting an oil transaction with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) using the XRP Ledger, a decentralized blockchain platform developed by Ripple. This groundbreaking event marks a significant milestone in the global adoption of blockchain for international trade, especially in the energy sector. Could this be the catalyst for the growth of altcoins like XRP and beyond? Let’s delve into the details. A New Era in Global Trade The use of the XRP Ledger for oil transactions between India and the UAE signals a new era in global trade. Traditionally, oil transactions have been settled in U.S. dollars, the dominant global reserve currency. However, this move by India and the UAE challenges the status quo, potentially reducing dependence on the dollar and showcasing the efficiency and security that blockchain technology can...

  Introduction  In a recent statement, V Kamakoti, the Director of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, voiced his disappointment and frustration regarding the QS World University Rankings 2025. This reaction comes as a notable development in the realm of higher education and reflects ongoing concerns about the evaluation criteria used by global ranking agencies. Context of the Discontent The QS World University Rankings, one of the most influential global university rankings, has often been a benchmark for assessing the stature and performance of universities worldwide. However, IIT Madras, which has consistently been ranked among the top institutions in India, found its position unsatisfactory in the latest QS World University Rankings for 2025. V Kamakoti's frustration stems from several factors, including perceived discrepancies in the ranking methodology and the criteria used to evaluate institutions. The QS rankings typically assess universities based on a ra...

In a significant diplomatic engagement, President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Chris Luxon of New Zealand recently met to reaffirm their commitment to enhancing bilateral relations between India and New Zealand. This meeting underscores both countries' dedication to deepening cooperation across various sectors, including education, trade, and culture. Education: A Shared Vision for Future Generations One of the key areas of focus in the discussions was education. Both leaders recognized the importance of educational exchanges and collaborative initiatives. India and New Zealand have already been working together to promote academic partnerships and student exchanges, and this meeting highlighted their mutual goal to expand these opportunities further. By fostering educational ties, both nations aim to create a more knowledgeable and interconnected future generation. Trade: Expanding Economic Horizons Trade was another crucial topic on the agenda. With both countries striving t...

In a remarkable display of solidarity and compassion , an Indian group based in the United Arab Emirates has pledged to adopt children orphaned by the recent catastrophic landslides in Kerala's Wayanad district. This devastating disaster, triggered by torrential rains on July 30, has claimed hundreds of lives and left communities in a state of utter devastation. The Tragic Impact The landslides, which struck the Mundakkai and Chooralamla regions of Wayanad, have resulted in significant loss of life and property. As of the latest reports, the death toll has risen to 402, with approximately 170 individuals still missing. The scale of the disaster has overwhelmed the affected communities, with rescue operations entering their eighth day. The affected areas have been inundated with emergency response efforts, and more than 10,300 people are currently housed in over 100 relief camps, primarily established in educational institutions throughout the region. UAE-Based Indian Group's In...

The trade relationship between the UAE and India has experienced a r emarkable boost, with trade between the two countries surging by 15% recently. This significant growth underscores the positive impact of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which aims to enhance economic cooperation and trade ties between the two nations. The CEPA Effect Implemented to deepen economic collaboration, the CEPA has been a game-changer for UAE-India relations. This agreement, which came into effect in May 2022, is designed to eliminate trade barriers, reduce tariffs, and create new opportunities for businesses and investors from both countries. The surge in trade is a clear indicator of the agreement's success in facilitating smoother and more lucrative trade interactions. Key Drivers of Growth Several factors contribute to this impressive 15% growth in trade: Elimination of Tariffs: The CEPA has significantly reduced or eliminated tariffs on a wide range of products, making it m...