"We have achieved soft landing on moon. India is on the Moon,"&nbsp;proclaimed the Chief of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), S. Somanath, following the successful landing of the Chandrayaan-3 lander module on the Moon's south pole. This achievement makes India the first nation to attain this historic milestone and puts an end to the disappointment stemming from the Chandrayaan-2 crash landing four years ago.

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"India is on the Moon": ISRO chief S Somanath as Chandrayaan 3 lander module Vikram makes safe and soft landing on the Moon <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISRO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISRO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chandrayaan3?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chandrayaan3</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaOnTheMoon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaOnTheMoon</a> <a href="https://t.co/DsN06ky0W8">pic.twitter.com/DsN06ky0W8</a>
— Mohammed Vali (@Mohamme09678378) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mohamme09678378/status/1694334903868068297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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He thanked PM Modi for being a part of the successful journey. He also thanked&nbsp;P Veeramuthuvel, Project Director, Srikant, Missions Operations Director and other members of the Chandrayaan-3 team.

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WATCH : Immediately After The Success Of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chandrayaan3?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chandrayaan3</a>, PM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> 
Telephoned ISRO Chief S. Somanath Ji and Congratulated Him. 😍🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaOnTheMoon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaOnTheMoon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VikramLander?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VikramLander</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ProudMoment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ProudMoment</a> <a href="https://t.co/m6J5UdKTpd">pic.twitter.com/m6J5UdKTpd</a>
— ModiForPM (@ModiforPMOrg) <a href="https://twitter.com/ModiforPMOrg/status/1694340545269649713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the people behind this mission," he said.&nbsp;

In a virtual address to the scientists, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to the nation, deeming this a historic moment that heralds India's progress. PM Modi, who is currently in South Africa for the BRICS Summit, proudly waved the tricolour as Chandrayaan-3 accomplished its lunar landing. Meanwhile, at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) headquarters in Bengaluru, officials erupted in applause as Vikram initiated its powered vertical descent towards the designated landing site. Vikram steadily descended from 150 metres to 130 metres, then 50 metres, gradually slowing as it approached the moon's surface before culminating in a successful lunar touchdown.

ISRO had been sharing a sequence of detailed lunar images, aiding the lander module in its process of ascertaining its precise location, including latitude and longitude, by cross-referencing these images with an onboard moon reference map. The spacecraft was launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, on July 14th.

India made a historic achievement, becoming the first country to land the ISRO's Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft on the Moon's south&nbsp;pole. This milestone comes shortly after a Russian probe, Luna-25, experienced a crash landing in the same area.

&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

"We have achieved soft landing on moon. India is on the Moon," proclaimed the Chief of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), S. Somanath, following the successful landing of the Chandrayaan-3 lander module on the Moon's south pole.

"We have achieved soft landing on moon. India is on the Moon," proclaimed the Chief of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), S. Somanath, following the successful landing of the Chandrayaan-3 lander module on the Moon's south pole. This achievement makes India the first nation to attain this historic milestone and puts an end to the disappointment stemming from the Chandrayaan-2 crash landing four years ago. "India is on the Moon": ISRO chief S Somanath as Chandrayaan 3 lander module Vikram makes safe and soft landing on the Moon #ISRO #Chandrayaan3 #IndiaOnTheMoon pic.twitter.com/DsN06ky0W8 — Mohammed Vali (@Mohamme09678378) August 23, 2023 × He thanked PM Modi for being a part of the successful journey. He also thanked P Veeramuthuvel, Project Director, Srikant, Missions Operations Director and other members of the Chandrayaan-3 team. WATCH : Immediately After The Success Of #Chandrayaan3, PM Shri @narendramodi Telephoned ISRO Chief S. Somanath Ji and Congratulated Him. 😍🇮🇳 #IndiaOnTheMoon #VikramLander #ProudMoment pic.twitter.com/m6J5UdKTpd — ModiForPM (@ModiforPMOrg) August 23, 2023 × "I would like to take this opportunity to thank the people behind this mission," he said. In a virtual address to the scientists, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to the nation, deeming this a historic moment that heralds India's progress. PM Modi, who is currently in South Africa for the BRICS Summit, proudly waved the tricolour as Chandrayaan-3 accomplished its lunar landing. Meanwhile, at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) headquarters in Bengaluru, officials erupted in applause as Vikram initiated its powered vertical descent towards the designated landing site. Vikram steadily descended from 150 metres to 130 metres, then 50 metres, gradually slowing as it approached the moon's surface before culminating in a successful lunar touchdown. ISRO had been sharing a sequence of detailed lunar images, aiding the lander module in its process of ascertaining its precise location, including latitude and longitude, by cross-referencing these images with an onboard moon reference map. The spacecraft was launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, on July 14th. India made a historic achievement, becoming the first country to land the ISRO's Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft on the Moon's south pole. This milestone comes shortly after a Russian probe, Luna-25, experienced a crash landing in the same area. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

‘India is on the moon’: ISRO chief S Somanath celebrates Chandrayaan-3's triumph on lunar landing

India's Chandrayaan-3 mission is progressing slowly for a lunar touchdown at 6pm IST on the 23rd of August. The LVM3 rocket pushed the Chandrayaan-3 into space. Now within hours from landing let's understand the science behind such precise travel. Watch this interview with former Deputy Director of ISRO, Arup Dasgupta.

How ISRO plans to spacefarer to the moon

CHANDRAYAAN-3: Vikram lander makes successful landing on moon. PM Modi congratulated the country on the historic moment. Meanwhile, Vikram Sarabhai Centre Director, Unnikrishnan Nair, said 'previous data was helpful to rectify mistakes'.

Chandrayaan-3: Vikram Sarabhai Centre Director says, 'Final phase before landing was very exciting'

Hundreds of Indian airline pilots plan to form an association to challenge flying duty regulations they say cause fatigue and jeopardize safety after an IndiGo pilot collapsed and died before his flight.

India: pilots unite to raise fatigue woes after colleague's pre-flight death

India has created history as Chandrayaan-3 landed on the moon at around 06:03 PM on Wednesday. Indian Prime Minister Modi joined the live landing of Chandrayaan-3 from South Africa where he is attending the BRICS summit. Meanwhile, ISRO Chairman S Somanath gave an address after the landing and said, 'India is on the moon'.

Chandrayaan-3: India celebrates after Moon lander's success; 'I reached my destination & India too!'

Upon Chandrayaan-3's successful landing, Prime Minister Modi declared, "We are witnesses to the new flight of the new India; new history has been written." India's successful Moon mission is not just India's alone. This success belongs to all of humanity."

Chandrayaan-3 | India lands on Moon: ISRO cries tears of joy, say 'Will remain the happiest moment'

India's Chandrayaan-3 mission is progressing slowly for a lunar touchdown at 6pm IST on the 23rd of August. However, in case of an anomaly, the landing could be postponed to Sunday the 27th of August. Watch to know what the Moon Man of India who was also the former ISRO Director Dr Mylswamy Annadurai has to say about the mission.

Decoding Chandrayaan-3 landing: 'If problem arises, landing could be delayed'

Chandrayaan-3: India scripts history after becoming first country to be near lunar south pole | WION

During a group photo session at the 15th BRICS Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi demonstrated a remarkable show of respect for his country's flag. As he noticed the Indian tricolour on the ground, symbolising his standing position, he carefully avoided stepping on it. Instead, he picked it up and kept it with him. His act of reverence did not go unnoticed, as South African President Cyril Ramaphosa promptly followed suit.

Watch the video here:

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Johannesburg, South Africa | PM Narendra Modi notices Indian Tricolour on the ground (to denote standing position) during the group photo at BRICS, makes sure to not step on it, picks it up and keeps it with him. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa follows suit. <a href="https://t.co/vf5pAkgPQo">pic.twitter.com/vf5pAkgPQo</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1694281671489859872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Bilateral meeting between Modi, Ramaphosa</h2>

On the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a bilateral meeting with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. This meeting served as an opportunity for both leaders to assess the progress achieved in bilateral relations and to exchange perspectives of their countries&nbsp;on a range of regional and multilateral issues. They also explored avenues for strengthening the collective voice of the Global South.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-balancing-act-or-anti-west-pivot-indias-choices-at-the-brics-summit-628267">Explained: Balancing act or anti-West pivot? India’s choices at the BRICS summit</a>

<h2>Satisfaction over bilateral progress</h2>

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that Prime Minister Modi and President Ramaphosa expressed their contentment with the advancements made across various domains, encompassing defence, agriculture, trade and investment, health, conservation, and people-to-people ties. This signified the positive trajectory of the India-South Africa relationship.

Also watch |&nbsp;BRICS Summit 2023: Dissatisfaction with the global order among developing nations

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<h2>Continued multilateral cooperation</h2>

In addition to the bilateral discussions, Modi and Ramaphosa deliberated on sustained collaboration within multilateral forums and mutual interests in regional and global affairs. President Ramaphosa voiced his full support for India's presidency of the G20 and commended India for extending full membership to the African Union in the G20. He also expressed eagerness to visit New Delhi for the upcoming G-20 Summit.

This meeting underscored the commitment of India and South Africa to furthering their partnership, fostering regional stability, and advancing the interests of the Global South on the international stage.

&nbsp;

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During a group photo session at the 15th BRICS Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi demonstrated a remarkable show of respect for his country's flag. As he noticed the Indian tricolour on the ground, symbolising his standing position, he carefully avoided stepping on it.

During a group photo session at the 15th BRICS Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi demonstrated a remarkable show of respect for his country's flag. As he noticed the Indian tricolour on the ground, symbolising his standing position, he carefully avoided stepping on it. Instead, he picked it up and kept it with him. His act of reverence did not go unnoticed, as South African President Cyril Ramaphosa promptly followed suit. Watch the video here: #WATCH | Johannesburg, South Africa | PM Narendra Modi notices Indian Tricolour on the ground (to denote standing position) during the group photo at BRICS, makes sure to not step on it, picks it up and keeps it with him. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa follows suit. pic.twitter.com/vf5pAkgPQo — ANI (@ANI) August 23, 2023 × Bilateral meeting between Modi, Ramaphosa On the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a bilateral meeting with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. This meeting served as an opportunity for both leaders to assess the progress achieved in bilateral relations and to exchange perspectives of their countries on a range of regional and multilateral issues. They also explored avenues for strengthening the collective voice of the Global South. Also read | Explained: Balancing act or anti-West pivot? India’s choices at the BRICS summit Satisfaction over bilateral progress The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that Prime Minister Modi and President Ramaphosa expressed their contentment with the advancements made across various domains, encompassing defence, agriculture, trade and investment, health, conservation, and people-to-people ties. This signified the positive trajectory of the India-South Africa relationship. Also watch | BRICS Summit 2023: Dissatisfaction with the global order among developing nations Continued multilateral cooperation In addition to the bilateral discussions, Modi and Ramaphosa deliberated on sustained collaboration within multilateral forums and mutual interests in regional and global affairs. President Ramaphosa voiced his full support for India's presidency of the G20 and commended India for extending full membership to the African Union in the G20. He also expressed eagerness to visit New Delhi for the upcoming G-20 Summit. This meeting underscored the commitment of India and South Africa to furthering their partnership, fostering regional stability, and advancing the interests of the Global South on the international stage. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

PM Modi notices Indian flag on podium at BRICS 2023, this is what he does next | WATCH

Despite a slowdown in global demand, India’s overall exports and imports of goods and services surpassed the $800 billion mark during the first half of 2023, attributed in large part to the country’s services sectors, according to a research released on Monday by think tank GTRI.

Data from the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) showed&nbsp;that from January to June of this year, exports of goods and services increased by 1.5 per cent to $385.4 billion in comparison to $379.5 billion in January to June of 2022.

However, compared to the same period last year, imports decreased by 5.9 per cent to $415.5 billion, from $441.7 billion.

“India’s foreign trade (exports and imports of merchandise and services) reached $800.9 billion during January-June 2023, exhibiting a decline of 2.5 per cent over the same period last year (January-June 2022),” the report said.

Separately, exports of products fell by 8.1 per cent to $218.7 billion, while imports fell by 8.3 per cent to $325.7 billion.

In contrast, over the six-month period, exports of services increased by 17.7 per cent to $166.7 billion, while imports increased by 3.7 per cent to $89.8 billion.

“Data is showing modest decline due to weak global demand and losing competitiveness in labour intensive sectors. The decline in merchandise exports happened despite appreciating INR (Indian Rupee). INR/USD exchange rate appreciated from 76.16 in April 2022 to 82.18 in Apr 2023,” GTRI Co-founder Ajay Srivastava told PTI.

He noted that a number of issues, including as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, high inflation, tighter monetary policy, and financial unpredictability, contribute to the poor forecast for global commerce in 2023.

But he also mentioned that these factors will soon be overshadowed by a spate of new subsidies and protectionist measures by the EU and USA. He cited an example saying that&nbsp;in the first seven months of 2023 alone, the EU has introduced five regulations on climate change and trade, each of these are essentially measures to curb imports.&nbsp;

He added that given that every major nation is shifting its attention inward, India should not give up its policy space, particularly when it comes to fresh concerns with FTAs (free trade agreements) and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF).

(With inputs from agencies)

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Despite a slowdown in global demand, India’s overall exports and imports of goods and services surpassed the $800 billion mark during the first half of 2023, attributed in large part to the country’s services sectors, according to a research released on Monday by think tank GTRI.

Despite a slowdown in global demand, India’s overall exports and imports of goods and services surpassed the $800 billion mark during the first half of 2023, attributed in large part to the country’s services sectors, according to a research released on Monday by think tank GTRI. Data from the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) showed that from January to June of this year, exports of goods and services increased by 1.5 per cent to $385.4 billion in comparison to $379.5 billion in January to June of 2022. However, compared to the same period last year, imports decreased by 5.9 per cent to $415.5 billion, from $441.7 billion. “India’s foreign trade (exports and imports of merchandise and services) reached $800.9 billion during January-June 2023, exhibiting a decline of 2.5 per cent over the same period last year (January-June 2022),” the report said. Separately, exports of products fell by 8.1 per cent to $218.7 billion, while imports fell by 8.3 per cent to $325.7 billion. In contrast, over the six-month period, exports of services increased by 17.7 per cent to $166.7 billion, while imports increased by 3.7 per cent to $89.8 billion. “Data is showing modest decline due to weak global demand and losing competitiveness in labour intensive sectors. The decline in merchandise exports happened despite appreciating INR (Indian Rupee). INR/USD exchange rate appreciated from 76.16 in April 2022 to 82.18 in Apr 2023,” GTRI Co-founder Ajay Srivastava told PTI. He noted that a number of issues, including as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, high inflation, tighter monetary policy, and financial unpredictability, contribute to the poor forecast for global commerce in 2023. But he also mentioned that these factors will soon be overshadowed by a spate of new subsidies and protectionist measures by the EU and USA. He cited an example saying that in the first seven months of 2023 alone, the EU has introduced five regulations on climate change and trade, each of these are essentially measures to curb imports. He added that given that every major nation is shifting its attention inward, India should not give up its policy space, particularly when it comes to fresh concerns with FTAs (free trade agreements) and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India’s foreign trade surpasses $800 billion: Think tank GTRI 

Chandrayaan-3: India creates history as Chandrayaan-3 successfully lands on moon

Upon Chandrayaan-3's successful landing, Prime Minister Modi declared, "We are witnesses to the new flight of the new India; new history has been written." India's successful Moon mission is not just India's alone...This success belongs to all of humanity." The South Pole of the moon has never been reached by any nation. The third lunar mission from ISRO, Chandrayaan-3, made a soft landing on the moon. "With the hard work of our scientists we have reached there," adds PM Modi. India has created history as Chandrayaan-3 landed on the moon at around 06:03 PM on Wednesday. Indian Prime Minister Modi joined the live landing of Chandrayaan-3 from South Africa where he is attending the BRICS summit. Meanwhile, ISRO Chairman S Somanath gave an address after the landing and said, 'India is on the moon'.

Chandrayaan-3: I reached my destination and you too!, says ISRO

India, often lauded for its burgeoning young population, stands on the brink of a demographic dividend that promises transformative economic growth. This potential, however, faces a critical test as the recent Mercer/Mettl report paints a sobering picture of the country's employability landscape. Titled 'India's Graduate Skill Index: 2023,' the report meticulously evaluated 2,500 campuses and 440,000 learners, revealing a startling reality: only 45% of Indian graduates possess the skills that align with the rapidly evolving industry demands. In a nation where the demographic dividend has long been heralded as a strategic advantage, this revelation prompts a reevaluation of how India can effectively leverage its youthful workforce to fuel economic prosperity.

Meet the experts: Gurpreet Singh and Jaideep Kewalramani

In the pursuit of deeper insights, we turn to two industry experts who shed light on India's employability challenges and potential solutions. Gurpreet Singh, the Co-founder and Chief Business Officer of Awign, a work fulfillment platform, offers a dynamic perspective shaped by his experience in the corporate arena. Jaideep Kewalramani, the Head of Employability and COO at TeamLease Edtech, brings a comprehensive understanding of employability trends and workforce dynamics. Through their nuanced viewpoints, we embark on a journey to decipher the complex interplay between India's demographic dividend and its employability realities.

Capitalising on the demographic dividend

India's employability gap, as illuminated by the Mercer/Mettl report, raises a critical question: Can the nation fully capitalise on its demographic dividend or risk squandering a momentous opportunity? According to Gurpreet Singh, the foremost challenge lies in the misalignment between the skills imparted by educational institutions and those demanded by employers. This profound disconnect creates a skill gap that leaves job seekers ill-equipped to navigate the swiftly evolving business landscape driven by technological advancements. Singh calls for a comprehensive overhaul of education and skill development, where the academic curriculum is recalibrated to align seamlessly with industry needs. While the government has taken noteworthy steps, such as the National Education Policy and Skill India initiatives, Singh emphasises that all stakeholders – educational institutes, businesses, and policymakers – must collaborate to bridge the employability gap.

Echoing this sentiment, Jaideep Kewalramani underscores the urgency of reimagining higher education in India. He advocates for the integration of real-world work experience into academic programs, a model that allows students to gain practical skills while pursuing online education. This approach, Kewalramani contends, not only addresses the employability challenge but also harnesses India's demographic dividend to its fullest potential. Both experts converge on the idea that unlocking India's demographic dividend requires aligning education with industry and nurturing job-ready graduates equipped with the skills demanded by the 21st-century job market.

Gig working: Pioneering a new era of employment

The rise of the gig economy emerges as a pivotal solution in enhancing employability and harnessing the demographic dividend. Jaideep Kewalramani looks at the gig economy as a transformative force that challenges conventional notions of employment. He stresses that gig work and freelancing should be considered legitimate avenues for work, offering flexibility, autonomy, and valuable skill development. This paradigm shift, Kewalramani asserts, is indicative of the evolving nature of employment in the digital age.

Gurpreet Singh emphasizes that the gig economy presents a unique avenue to expand employment opportunities for India's youth. As job seekers and enterprises increasingly embrace the gig economy, the entry barriers are lowered, providing unemployed graduates the chance to contribute their skills to the workforce. Singh predicts that the gig economy could potentially generate up to 90 million jobs in the next decade, presenting a significant opportunity for economic growth and individual empowerment. Both experts see the gig economy as a powerful tool to bridge the employability gap by providing diverse work opportunities that align with the skills of India's youth.

Quality of new hires and emerging trends

The question of the quality of new hires and the evolving employment landscape takes center stage in the discussion of India's employability. Gurpreet Singh's insights bring reassurance, dispelling concerns about declining new hire quality. He cites a diverse and rigorous talent pool, indicative of the evolving workforce dynamics. Singh also highlights a trend toward project-based talent acquisition through the gig economy, especially in the tech sector. This shift reflects the changing demands of industries and the increasing need for specialized skills.

Jaideep Kewalramani provides a more holistic perspective, acknowledging the generational shift occurring in the workforce. He notes that as the Gen Z population grows, traditional notions of workplace engagement, communication, and motivation need to evolve. Kewalramani emphasises that businesses are now focusing on building a future-ready talent supply chain rather than just addressing immediate workforce needs. This aligns with the changing employment landscape, where adaptability, continuous learning, and technology proficiency are increasingly valued.

Tier-wise college hiring: Dismantling traditional notions

The Mercer/Mettl report's revelation that employability does not substantially differ between graduates from tier 1 and tier 2 or 3 colleges challenges conventional hiring paradigms. Jaideep Kewalramani's insights suggest that this trend is well underway. He hints at the already expanding practice of corporations hiring from tier 2, 3, and even 4 locations with successful outcomes. Kewalramani suggests that this trend is set to escalate further as businesses realize the potential of untapped talent across the nation. He implies that Talent mobility will be crucial in reshaping the employability landscape, bringing individuals from diverse backgrounds to the forefront of India's economic growth. He also mentioned Platforms like Digivarsity, which offer&nbsp;work-integrated degree programs and&nbsp;solve issues of talent acquisition, deployment, and retention.

Gurpreet Singh contends that this shift indicates a broader trend in the employment landscape. Employers focus more on candidates' skills and capabilities than their educational pedigree. Singh highlights a growing recognition of the value that diverse perspectives and talents from different geographical regions can bring to businesses. This signals a departure from the historical reliance on top-tier institutions.

Conclusion: Navigating the path forward

In the face of challenges, a blueprint emerges for success – aligning education with industry, embracing the gig economy, adapting to generational shifts, and recognizing talent irrespective of college tiers. The road to capitalising on India's demographic dividend demands collaboration, innovation, and a willingness to reimagine conventional norms. As India looks to the future, it stands at a pivotal juncture where harnessing the potential of its youthful workforce is not only a necessity but a transformative opportunity for sustainable growth and global competitiveness. Through collective effort and strategic action, India's demographic dividend can truly become the cornerstone of a thriving economy.

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India, often lauded for its burgeoning young population, stands on the brink of a demographic dividend that promises transformative economic growth. This potential, however, faces a critical test as the recent Mercer/Mettl report paints a sobering picture of the country's employability landscape.

India, often lauded for its burgeoning young population, stands on the brink of a demographic dividend that promises transformative economic growth. This potential, however, faces a critical test as the recent Mercer/Mettl report paints a sobering picture of the country's employability landscape. Titled 'India's Graduate Skill Index: 2023,' the report meticulously evaluated 2,500 campuses and 440,000 learners, revealing a startling reality: only 45% of Indian graduates possess the skills that align with the rapidly evolving industry demands. In a nation where the demographic dividend has long been heralded as a strategic advantage, this revelation prompts a reevaluation of how India can effectively leverage its youthful workforce to fuel economic prosperity. Meet the experts: Gurpreet Singh and Jaideep Kewalramani In the pursuit of deeper insights, we turn to two industry experts who shed light on India's employability challenges and potential solutions. Gurpreet Singh, the Co-founder and Chief Business Officer of Awign, a work fulfillment platform, offers a dynamic perspective shaped by his experience in the corporate arena. Jaideep Kewalramani, the Head of Employability and COO at TeamLease Edtech, brings a comprehensive understanding of employability trends and workforce dynamics. Through their nuanced viewpoints, we embark on a journey to decipher the complex interplay between India's demographic dividend and its employability realities. Capitalising on the demographic dividend India's employability gap, as illuminated by the Mercer/Mettl report, raises a critical question: Can the nation fully capitalise on its demographic dividend or risk squandering a momentous opportunity? According to Gurpreet Singh, the foremost challenge lies in the misalignment between the skills imparted by educational institutions and those demanded by employers. This profound disconnect creates a skill gap that leaves job seekers ill-equipped to navigate the swiftly evolving business landscape driven by technological advancements. Singh calls for a comprehensive overhaul of education and skill development, where the academic curriculum is recalibrated to align seamlessly with industry needs. While the government has taken noteworthy steps, such as the National Education Policy and Skill India initiatives, Singh emphasises that all stakeholders – educational institutes, businesses, and policymakers – must collaborate to bridge the employability gap. Echoing this sentiment, Jaideep Kewalramani underscores the urgency of reimagining higher education in India. He advocates for the integration of real-world work experience into academic programs, a model that allows students to gain practical skills while pursuing online education. This approach, Kewalramani contends, not only addresses the employability challenge but also harnesses India's demographic dividend to its fullest potential. Both experts converge on the idea that unlocking India's demographic dividend requires aligning education with industry and nurturing job-ready graduates equipped with the skills demanded by the 21st-century job market. Gig working: Pioneering a new era of employment The rise of the gig economy emerges as a pivotal solution in enhancing employability and harnessing the demographic dividend. Jaideep Kewalramani looks at the gig economy as a transformative force that challenges conventional notions of employment. He stresses that gig work and freelancing should be considered legitimate avenues for work, offering flexibility, autonomy, and valuable skill development. This paradigm shift, Kewalramani asserts, is indicative of the evolving nature of employment in the digital age. Gurpreet Singh emphasizes that the gig economy presents a unique avenue to expand employment opportunities for India's youth. As job seekers and enterprises increasingly embrace the gig economy, the entry barriers are lowered, providing unemployed graduates the chance to contribute their skills to the workforce. Singh predicts that the gig economy could potentially generate up to 90 million jobs in the next decade, presenting a significant opportunity for economic growth and individual empowerment. Both experts see the gig economy as a powerful tool to bridge the employability gap by providing diverse work opportunities that align with the skills of India's youth. Quality of new hires and emerging trends The question of the quality of new hires and the evolving employment landscape takes center stage in the discussion of India's employability. Gurpreet Singh's insights bring reassurance, dispelling concerns about declining new hire quality. He cites a diverse and rigorous talent pool, indicative of the evolving workforce dynamics. Singh also highlights a trend toward project-based talent acquisition through the gig economy, especially in the tech sector. This shift reflects the changing demands of industries and the increasing need for specialized skills. Jaideep Kewalramani provides a more holistic perspective, acknowledging the generational shift occurring in the workforce. He notes that as the Gen Z population grows, traditional notions of workplace engagement, communication, and motivation need to evolve. Kewalramani emphasises that businesses are now focusing on building a future-ready talent supply chain rather than just addressing immediate workforce needs. This aligns with the changing employment landscape, where adaptability, continuous learning, and technology proficiency are increasingly valued. Tier-wise college hiring: Dismantling traditional notions The Mercer/Mettl report's revelation that employability does not substantially differ between graduates from tier 1 and tier 2 or 3 colleges challenges conventional hiring paradigms. Jaideep Kewalramani's insights suggest that this trend is well underway. He hints at the already expanding practice of corporations hiring from tier 2, 3, and even 4 locations with successful outcomes. Kewalramani suggests that this trend is set to escalate further as businesses realize the potential of untapped talent across the nation. He implies that Talent mobility will be crucial in reshaping the employability landscape, bringing individuals from diverse backgrounds to the forefront of India's economic growth. He also mentioned Platforms like Digivarsity, which offer work-integrated degree programs and solve issues of talent acquisition, deployment, and retention. Gurpreet Singh contends that this shift indicates a broader trend in the employment landscape. Employers focus more on candidates' skills and capabilities than their educational pedigree. Singh highlights a growing recognition of the value that diverse perspectives and talents from different geographical regions can bring to businesses. This signals a departure from the historical reliance on top-tier institutions. Conclusion: Navigating the path forward In the face of challenges, a blueprint emerges for success – aligning education with industry, embracing the gig economy, adapting to generational shifts, and recognizing talent irrespective of college tiers. The road to capitalising on India's demographic dividend demands collaboration, innovation, and a willingness to reimagine conventional norms. As India looks to the future, it stands at a pivotal juncture where harnessing the potential of its youthful workforce is not only a necessity but a transformative opportunity for sustainable growth and global competitiveness. Through collective effort and strategic action, India's demographic dividend can truly become the cornerstone of a thriving economy. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Decoding India's Employability: Unlocking the potential of India's demographic dividend

History is about to be created. As Chandrayaan-3 is just a few hours away from lunar landing. Chandrayaan-3 will attempt a soft landing on the moon's south pole. Why is South Pole chosen for landing?

Chandrayaan-3: What makes the south pole of the Moon so special?

Years after taking a jibe at India's lunar ambitions in 2019, Pakistan's former Minister of Science and Technology, Fawad Hussain Chaudhry, has now done an unexpected about-face. In a Tuesday (August 22) post&nbsp;on X, formerly Twitter, the former minister lauded the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Chandrayaan-3, terming it a "historic moment for humankind."&nbsp;

"Pak media should show #Chandrayan moon landing live tomorrow at 6:15 PM… historic moment for Human kind specially for the people, scientists and Space community of India…. Many Congratulations," Hussain said on X.

This is a surprising twist, considering the fact that Chaudhry is the same minister who had taunted India with the hashtag "India Failed" following ISRO's unfortunate loss of contact with the Vikram lander during the previous&nbsp;unsuccessful mission.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-chandrayaan-3-to-make-historic-attempt-at-moon-landing-today-628136">India's Chandrayaan-3 to make historic attempt at moon landing today</a>

Notably, in September&nbsp;2019, he penned several posts on X&nbsp;with the hashtag "#IndiaFailed."

The former minister had made a series of vile comments targeting and taunting India. His vitriolic comments also targeted the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, Bollywood, India's cultural sentiments, and&nbsp;Indian Air Force fighter pilot&nbsp;Abhinandan Varthaman who downed Pakistan's F-16 fighter jets in February 2019.&nbsp;

<h2>Change of heart?&nbsp;</h2>

Now the minister, who is well-known for his insulting remarks towards India, is urging his country to witness the live broadcast of Chandrayaan-3's moon landing on Wednesday evening. His tone has shifted from taunts to admiration.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-3-soft-landing-will-offer-basic-tech-for-landing-missions-to-other-planets-628071">Chandrayaan-3 soft-landing will offer basic tech for landing missions to other planets</a>

This chapter in India's lunar exploration commenced on July 14 with a triumphant launch of Chandrayaan-3 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.&nbsp;After gracefully entering the lunar orbit on August 5, the spacecraft is poised to execute a soft landing on the moon's surface on August 23.

<h2>A pinnacle moment awaits</h2>

Scheduled for a touchdown at 6:04 pm on Wednesday, the Chandrayaan-3 Lander Module is diligently scouting for an ideal landing spot on the lunar landscape. As per ISRO, everything till now has been going as per the plan and the lunar mission holds the promise of turning into an epochal event.

Onboard the Chandrayaan-3 are Lander&nbsp;Vikram and a rover named 'Pragyaan'.

WATCH | Decoding Chandrayaan-3 landing: 'If problem arises, landing could be delayed'

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The rover is&nbsp;employed with laser beams which it will use to melt a portion of the moon's surface known as regolith.

This will enable the analysis of the gases released during this procedure. This endeavour will help gain India an understanding of the lunar landscape and insights into its suitability for eventual human habitation.&nbsp;Upon successful landing, Chandrayaan-3 is poised to operate for a fortnight, embarking on a series of experiments.&nbsp;

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Years after taking a jibe at India's lunar ambitions in 2019, Pakistan's former Minister of Science and Technology, Fawad Hussain Chaudhry, has now done an unexpected about-face.

Years after taking a jibe at India's lunar ambitions in 2019, Pakistan's former Minister of Science and Technology, Fawad Hussain Chaudhry, has now done an unexpected about-face. In a Tuesday (August 22) post on X, formerly Twitter, the former minister lauded the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Chandrayaan-3, terming it a "historic moment for humankind." "Pak media should show #Chandrayan moon landing live tomorrow at 6:15 PM… historic moment for Human kind specially for the people, scientists and Space community of India…. Many Congratulations," Hussain said on X. This is a surprising twist, considering the fact that Chaudhry is the same minister who had taunted India with the hashtag "India Failed" following ISRO's unfortunate loss of contact with the Vikram lander during the previous unsuccessful mission. Also Read | India's Chandrayaan-3 to make historic attempt at moon landing today Notably, in September 2019, he penned several posts on X with the hashtag "#IndiaFailed." The former minister had made a series of vile comments targeting and taunting India. His vitriolic comments also targeted the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, Bollywood, India's cultural sentiments, and Indian Air Force fighter pilot Abhinandan Varthaman who downed Pakistan's F-16 fighter jets in February 2019. Change of heart? Now the minister, who is well-known for his insulting remarks towards India, is urging his country to witness the live broadcast of Chandrayaan-3's moon landing on Wednesday evening. His tone has shifted from taunts to admiration. Also Read | Chandrayaan-3 soft-landing will offer basic tech for landing missions to other planets This chapter in India's lunar exploration commenced on July 14 with a triumphant launch of Chandrayaan-3 from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. After gracefully entering the lunar orbit on August 5, the spacecraft is poised to execute a soft landing on the moon's surface on August 23. A pinnacle moment awaits Scheduled for a touchdown at 6:04 pm on Wednesday, the Chandrayaan-3 Lander Module is diligently scouting for an ideal landing spot on the lunar landscape. As per ISRO, everything till now has been going as per the plan and the lunar mission holds the promise of turning into an epochal event. Onboard the Chandrayaan-3 are Lander Vikram and a rover named 'Pragyaan'. WATCH | Decoding Chandrayaan-3 landing: 'If problem arises, landing could be delayed' × The rover is employed with laser beams which it will use to melt a portion of the moon's surface known as regolith. This will enable the analysis of the gases released during this procedure. This endeavour will help gain India an understanding of the lunar landscape and insights into its suitability for eventual human habitation. Upon successful landing, Chandrayaan-3 is poised to operate for a fortnight, embarking on a series of experiments. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Pak ex-minister praises Chandrayaan-3 mission, had taken jibes on Indian lunar mission in 2019

New Delhi will host India's first G20 Summit from 9-10 September. With just three weeks left, extensive preparations are underway in the capital. Monuments like Qutub Minar, Red Fort, and Humayun's Tomb are being illuminated. Sculptures are being set up in public spaces.

How is India preparing for the upcoming G20 Summit?

All government and private offices in New Delhi will remain shut between September 8th and 10th in view of the G20 Summit. The Summit in the Indian national capital is scheduled to take place on September 9th and 10th at Pragati maidan. The move aims to elevate any potential traffic congestion and also logistical challenges.

G20 Summit: Offices to remain closed as a measure to control traffic during the Summit

At least 20 people were found dead as wildfires rage in Greece, and the temperature in Athens touches 41°c. On the other hand, in Tenerife, more than 12,000 people evacuated as a devastating blaze- which started deliberately engulfs the island.

Wildfires rage in Greece & Spain as soaring temperatures persist

The Indian hotel industry is expected to directly contribute $ 1 trillion to the country’s GDP by 2047, attributed to an&nbsp;increase in domestic tourism and international arrivals, a report said. According to the Hotel Association of India (HAI) and Benori Knowledge report, “Vision 2047: Indian Hotel Industry", the direct GDP contribution of the hotel industry was $40 billion in 2022 and is predicted to increase to $68 billion by 2027.

It also stated that it could reach $1 trillion by 2047. The association for the hotel industry said that, in order for the sector to reach its goal, growth must expand outside of metro areas into second- and third-tier cities as well as rural areas.

The report noted that the total contribution does take into account aspects of services from related business verticals, such as food and beverage and salons and spas, but does not take into account the expansion of the services market, eliminating scenario-based contribution estimations. The report says that variables including GDP growth, rising income levels, a rise in both domestic and international visitor arrivals&nbsp;are attributed to&nbsp;the predicted gain.

Domestic tourist visits are anticipated to rise from 677 million in 2021 to 1.5 billion by 2030 and then further to 15 billion by 2047 in the long term (2037-2047), according to the report. The survey noted that there would be 1.5 million international visitors arriving in India in 2021, 15 million by 2024, 25 million by 2030, and "are further projected to grow attracting 100 million tourists by 2047."

As per the report, all of these variables have opened up new prospects in the tourist and hospitality sectors. Technology, environmental and social sustainability, assistance from policymakers, and macroeconomic variables will all be significant, HAI Secretary General M P Bezbaruah told PTI.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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The Indian hotel industry is expected to directly contribute $ 1 trillion to the country’s GDP by 2047, attributed to an increase in domestic tourism and international arrivals, a report said.

The Indian hotel industry is expected to directly contribute $ 1 trillion to the country’s GDP by 2047, attributed to an increase in domestic tourism and international arrivals, a report said. According to the Hotel Association of India (HAI) and Benori Knowledge report, “Vision 2047: Indian Hotel Industry", the direct GDP contribution of the hotel industry was $40 billion in 2022 and is predicted to increase to $68 billion by 2027. It also stated that it could reach $1 trillion by 2047. The association for the hotel industry said that, in order for the sector to reach its goal, growth must expand outside of metro areas into second- and third-tier cities as well as rural areas. The report noted that the total contribution does take into account aspects of services from related business verticals, such as food and beverage and salons and spas, but does not take into account the expansion of the services market, eliminating scenario-based contribution estimations. The report says that variables including GDP growth, rising income levels, a rise in both domestic and international visitor arrivals are attributed to the predicted gain. Domestic tourist visits are anticipated to rise from 677 million in 2021 to 1.5 billion by 2030 and then further to 15 billion by 2047 in the long term (2037-2047), according to the report. The survey noted that there would be 1.5 million international visitors arriving in India in 2021, 15 million by 2024, 25 million by 2030, and "are further projected to grow attracting 100 million tourists by 2047." As per the report, all of these variables have opened up new prospects in the tourist and hospitality sectors. Technology, environmental and social sustainability, assistance from policymakers, and macroeconomic variables will all be significant, HAI Secretary General M P Bezbaruah told PTI. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Hotel industry projected to contribute $1 trillion to India’s GDP by 2047: Report 

India has made a leap to the 11th position in the ranking of the top direct seller markets with retail sales of $3.23 billion in 2022, according to a report by the international industry association World Federation of Direct Selling Associations (WFDSA).

The report by the WFDSA said that Indian direct selling has seen growth of 5.4 per cent above 2021 retail sales. According to the report, the Indian market experienced the highest Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of nearly 13.3 per cent during the previous three years, measured in constant dollars.

The global direct selling market reported a 1.5 per cent fall to $172.89 billion in 2022.

With an overall decline of five&nbsp;per cent from 2021, the US ranked first on the list with $40.52. It was followed by Korea, Germany, China, Japan, and Malaysia.

According to Rajat Banerji, chairman of the India Direct Selling Association (IDSA), “India’s direct selling market is growing steadily and has the potential to place itself in the top five global markets over the next decade.”

He also added that the Consumer Protection (Direct Selling) Rules 202 and its subsequent amendment should bring stability to the Indian direct selling market, which may gather the interest of major international direct selling organisations as well as investors.

“Only three among the top ten (sellers) are in India today and we would like to see all start their business in India,” Rajat added.

IDSA is a self-regulatory body for the direct selling industry in India.

(With inputs form agencies)

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India has made a leap to the 11th position in the ranking of the top direct seller markets with retail sales of $3.23 billion in 2022, according to a report by the international industry association World Federation of Direct Selling Associations (WFDSA).

India has made a leap to the 11th position in the ranking of the top direct seller markets with retail sales of $3.23 billion in 2022, according to a report by the international industry association World Federation of Direct Selling Associations (WFDSA). The report by the WFDSA said that Indian direct selling has seen growth of 5.4 per cent above 2021 retail sales. According to the report, the Indian market experienced the highest Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of nearly 13.3 per cent during the previous three years, measured in constant dollars. The global direct selling market reported a 1.5 per cent fall to $172.89 billion in 2022. With an overall decline of five per cent from 2021, the US ranked first on the list with $40.52. It was followed by Korea, Germany, China, Japan, and Malaysia. According to Rajat Banerji, chairman of the India Direct Selling Association (IDSA), “India’s direct selling market is growing steadily and has the potential to place itself in the top five global markets over the next decade.” He also added that the Consumer Protection (Direct Selling) Rules 202 and its subsequent amendment should bring stability to the Indian direct selling market, which may gather the interest of major international direct selling organisations as well as investors. “Only three among the top ten (sellers) are in India today and we would like to see all start their business in India,” Rajat added. IDSA is a self-regulatory body for the direct selling industry in India. (With inputs form agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India moves up to 11th position in global direct selling ranking: Report

The BRICS nations consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, are gathered in South Africa for a summit that carries the potential to define the bloc's future and its determination to challenge a world order it views as tilted in favour of the West. While these nations have never been more prominent on the world stage, the inner workings of BRICS remain complex. This family sure has issues. &nbsp;

The summit is missing Russian President Vladimir Putin, as South Africa faces potential obligations to detain him over alleged war crimes in Ukraine. India and China, both members of the group, are dealing with a border conflict.&nbsp;China finds itself in a complicated relationship with the US, while New Delhi maintains close bonds with Washington.&nbsp;

This year's summit is a big test for Indian diplomacy as two predominant themes taking centre stage are the urge for expansion and a drive towards adopting a shared currency, both of which present challenges for India.&nbsp;

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Indian PM Narendra Modi during his initial involvement in Johannesburg, took part in the Leaders' Dialogue of the BRICS Business Forum

As the bloc seeks to rebalance global power, experts warn that it may adopt a more pronounced geopolitical stance, especially with China and Russia hoping to garner its support amid escalating tensions with the West - a prospect that could be advanced through its expansion.&nbsp;

There are conjectures that China and Russia are keen to welcome new members who would introduce an anti-Western perspective. Concerns also exist that the bloc's expansion could draw in nations that perceive BRICS as a counterforce to the European Union and the United States, which India and Brazil both oppose. But is that indeed the scenario?&nbsp;

"China will not project BRICS as anti-Western because China is delicately calibrating its relations with the US in the wake of domestic economic challenges, though Russia surely has a direct interest in forming an anti-Western grouping,” Dr Geeta Kochhar, Assistant Professor, Centre for Chinese and South East Asian Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University 
(JNU) told WION. &nbsp;

“China also seems to be the counterbalance Russia faces amidst the Russia-Ukraine war, and hence would not want to directly upset the West to avoid any sanctions from the Western world.” &nbsp;

Additionally, India also cannot prevent countries backed by China and Russia, like Iran, from joining the bloc, as India and Iran have the Chabahar port factor in the equation, Dr Kochhar explains.&nbsp;

The Chabahar port is situated along the Makran coastline in the Sistan and Baluchistan Province, adjacent to the Gulf of Oman and positioned at the entrance of the Strait of Hormuz. It stands as Iran's sole port offering a direct route to the Indian Ocean.

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Chabahar Port is a seaport in Chabahar located in southeastern Iran, on the Gulf of Oman

The primary and most crucial importance of the Chabahar port lies in enabling India to circumvent Pakistan when shipping goods to Afghanistan.&nbsp;It would also&nbsp;cut transport costs and time for Indian goods by a third.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/where-is-xi-jinping-chinese-leaders-unusual-absence-at-brics-business-forum-raises-eyebrows-628067">Where is Xi Jinping?&nbsp;Chinese leader's unusual absence&nbsp;at BRICS Business Forum raises eyebrows</a>

<h2>What is India’s stance?&nbsp;</h2>

In the complex world of geopolitics, India's current strategic choices are anything but straightforward. The question that looms large is where India truly fits into the ever-evolving global geopolitical puzzle. Some Western perspectives tend to scrutinise India's participation in groups like BRICS and the SCO, especially in light of the Ukraine conflict and the Western-Russia standoff. &nbsp;

A frequently raised question is: Is it feasible for India to actively engage in the Quad, which includes Australia, Japan, the US, and India, while concurrently maintaining its significance within the G-20, G-7, BRICS, SCO, and the broader global South?&nbsp;

“India is talking the rhetoric of multipolarity, but what multipolarity are we talking about?,” questioned Dr Manish Dabhade, founder, The Indian Futures, a New Delhi based independent think tank. &nbsp;

"India is certainly contesting Chinese unipolarity in Asia and the Indo-Pacific. That's precisely why India opposes the BRICS currency; it's not inclined towards even regional trading currencies. There's also an economic rationale behind this stance,” he told WION. &nbsp;

Currently, over 50 per cent of all global transactions are conducted in US dollars, while the Chinese&nbsp;Renminbi (RMB) accounts for just 3-4 per cent, and at most, it might increase to 4-5 per cent, which is a marginal shift, he pointed out. “The notion propagated by BRICS that they are de-dollarising the global economy is unlikely to materialise, at least not in the next 10-20 years.”&nbsp;

India is speaking the language of multilateralism, but it has largely chosen its side. The broader trajectory is shifting towards a closer alignment with the West, encompassing the US, Europe, and France, added Dabhade. India has also been contesting all of China's unfair trade practices, including its withdrawal from RCEP and China's inundation of Indian markets with their goods. However, primarily, it was about strategically countering China, he said. &nbsp;

There is an international climate now that is openly against China due to its expansionist agenda in Asia and the Indo-Pacific. This is the reason for the resounding calls to de-risk and decouple from China.&nbsp;

Follow the live blog for all latest updates on the 2023 BRICS summit:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-summit-day-2-pm-modi-to-hold-bilateral-meeting-with-sa-prez-ramaphosa-628219">BRICS Summit, Day-2: PM Modi to hold bilateral meeting with SA Prez Ramaphosa</a>

<h2>Non–alignment to multi-alignment?&nbsp;</h2>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modi-aims-at-expansion-of-indias-upi-to-brics-nations-at-business-forum-meet-628060">India</a> is also walking the tightrope of multi-alignment, as noted by Dr Dabhade, while quoting Indian politician Shashi Tharoor. &nbsp;

“Somewhere, in some places, we are going to be with RIC (Russia, India, China trilateral) or even BRICS. However, India is also a part of the QUAD and has close bilateral relations with the US and France at the highest levels. But the larger eggs are in the American basket. India cannot simply walk out of BRICS because it still depends on Russian defence imports,” explained Dr Dabhade.&nbsp;

The contemporary geopolitical puzzle confronting New Delhi is far from a walk in the park: it involves India's need to establish a strong presence in non-Western global platforms like BRICS and the SCO, counterbalancing the ever-expanding influence of China within these arenas, and simultaneously juggling Western normative standards while carving out a space for itself in Eurocentric gatherings like the UNSC and the G-7. &nbsp;

All of this demands a delicate and multitasking approach, which Dr Kochhar likes to term "matured diplomacy". Additionally, India cannot antagonise anyone in a year when it’s hosting the G20 summit.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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The BRICS nations consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, are gathered in South Africa for a summit that carries the potential to define the bloc's future and its determination to challenge a world order it views as tilted in favour of the West.

The BRICS nations consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, are gathered in South Africa for a summit that carries the potential to define the bloc's future and its determination to challenge a world order it views as tilted in favour of the West. While these nations have never been more prominent on the world stage, the inner workings of BRICS remain complex. This family sure has issues. The summit is missing Russian President Vladimir Putin, as South Africa faces potential obligations to detain him over alleged war crimes in Ukraine. India and China, both members of the group, are dealing with a border conflict. China finds itself in a complicated relationship with the US, while New Delhi maintains close bonds with Washington. This year's summit is a big test for Indian diplomacy as two predominant themes taking centre stage are the urge for expansion and a drive towards adopting a shared currency, both of which present challenges for India. Indian PM Narendra Modi during his initial involvement in Johannesburg, took part in the Leaders' Dialogue of the BRICS Business Forum As the bloc seeks to rebalance global power, experts warn that it may adopt a more pronounced geopolitical stance, especially with China and Russia hoping to garner its support amid escalating tensions with the West - a prospect that could be advanced through its expansion. There are conjectures that China and Russia are keen to welcome new members who would introduce an anti-Western perspective. Concerns also exist that the bloc's expansion could draw in nations that perceive BRICS as a counterforce to the European Union and the United States, which India and Brazil both oppose. But is that indeed the scenario? "China will not project BRICS as anti-Western because China is delicately calibrating its relations with the US in the wake of domestic economic challenges, though Russia surely has a direct interest in forming an anti-Western grouping,” Dr Geeta Kochhar, Assistant Professor, Centre for Chinese and South East Asian Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) told WION. “China also seems to be the counterbalance Russia faces amidst the Russia-Ukraine war, and hence would not want to directly upset the West to avoid any sanctions from the Western world.” Additionally, India also cannot prevent countries backed by China and Russia, like Iran, from joining the bloc, as India and Iran have the Chabahar port factor in the equation, Dr Kochhar explains. The Chabahar port is situated along the Makran coastline in the Sistan and Baluchistan Province, adjacent to the Gulf of Oman and positioned at the entrance of the Strait of Hormuz. It stands as Iran's sole port offering a direct route to the Indian Ocean. Chabahar Port is a seaport in Chabahar located in southeastern Iran, on the Gulf of Oman The primary and most crucial importance of the Chabahar port lies in enabling India to circumvent Pakistan when shipping goods to Afghanistan. It would also cut transport costs and time for Indian goods by a third. Also read | Where is Xi Jinping? Chinese leader's unusual absence at BRICS Business Forum raises eyebrows What is India’s stance? In the complex world of geopolitics, India's current strategic choices are anything but straightforward. The question that looms large is where India truly fits into the ever-evolving global geopolitical puzzle. Some Western perspectives tend to scrutinise India's participation in groups like BRICS and the SCO, especially in light of the Ukraine conflict and the Western-Russia standoff. A frequently raised question is: Is it feasible for India to actively engage in the Quad, which includes Australia, Japan, the US, and India, while concurrently maintaining its significance within the G-20, G-7, BRICS, SCO, and the broader global South? “India is talking the rhetoric of multipolarity, but what multipolarity are we talking about?,” questioned Dr Manish Dabhade, founder, The Indian Futures, a New Delhi based independent think tank. "India is certainly contesting Chinese unipolarity in Asia and the Indo-Pacific. That's precisely why India opposes the BRICS currency; it's not inclined towards even regional trading currencies. There's also an economic rationale behind this stance,” he told WION. Currently, over 50 per cent of all global transactions are conducted in US dollars, while the Chinese Renminbi (RMB) accounts for just 3-4 per cent, and at most, it might increase to 4-5 per cent, which is a marginal shift, he pointed out. “The notion propagated by BRICS that they are de-dollarising the global economy is unlikely to materialise, at least not in the next 10-20 years.” India is speaking the language of multilateralism, but it has largely chosen its side. The broader trajectory is shifting towards a closer alignment with the West, encompassing the US, Europe, and France, added Dabhade. India has also been contesting all of China's unfair trade practices, including its withdrawal from RCEP and China's inundation of Indian markets with their goods. However, primarily, it was about strategically countering China, he said. There is an international climate now that is openly against China due to its expansionist agenda in Asia and the Indo-Pacific. This is the reason for the resounding calls to de-risk and decouple from China. Follow the live blog for all latest updates on the 2023 BRICS summit: BRICS Summit, Day-2: PM Modi to hold bilateral meeting with SA Prez Ramaphosa Non–alignment to multi-alignment? India is also walking the tightrope of multi-alignment, as noted by Dr Dabhade, while quoting Indian politician Shashi Tharoor. “Somewhere, in some places, we are going to be with RIC (Russia, India, China trilateral) or even BRICS. However, India is also a part of the QUAD and has close bilateral relations with the US and France at the highest levels. But the larger eggs are in the American basket. India cannot simply walk out of BRICS because it still depends on Russian defence imports,” explained Dr Dabhade. The contemporary geopolitical puzzle confronting New Delhi is far from a walk in the park: it involves India's need to establish a strong presence in non-Western global platforms like BRICS and the SCO, counterbalancing the ever-expanding influence of China within these arenas, and simultaneously juggling Western normative standards while carving out a space for itself in Eurocentric gatherings like the UNSC and the G-7. All of this demands a delicate and multitasking approach, which Dr Kochhar likes to term "matured diplomacy". Additionally, India cannot antagonise anyone in a year when it’s hosting the G20 summit. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained: Balancing act or anti-West pivot? India’s choices at the BRICS summit

Presently, India hopes to win this week’s space race by being the first country to set foot on the moon’s south pole. The race is about science, politics of national pride, and a brand-new frontier: money.

India’s Chandrayaan-3 is scheduled to touch down on the lunar south pole on Wednesday. Analysts and businesspeople anticipate a quick boost for the nation’s fledgling space industry if it is successful.

Before the lander plummeted from orbit and likely took with it the financing for a replacement mission, observers say, Russia’s Luna-25, which was launched less than two weeks ago, had been on pace to arrive first.

The unexpected race to reach a previously undiscovered area of the moon brings to mind the space race between the US and the USSR in the 1960s.

But now that space travel is a lucrative industry, the moon’s south pole is prized for the water ice that scientists believe could one day support a lunar colony, mining operations, and eventually journeys to Mars.

With the help of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has privatised space launches and is attempting to attract international investment as it aims to grow its market share in the launch industry five-fold over the course of the next ten years.

Analysts predict that India’s space industry will benefit from its reputation for cost-effective engineering if Chandrayaan-3 is a success. Only about $74 million was allocated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for the project.

The inspector general of the US space agency has calculated that NASA is on schedule to spend nearly $93 billion on its Artemis lunar plan through 2025.

“The moment this mission is successful, it raises the profile of everyone associated with it,” said Ajey Lele, a consultant with the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses in New Delhi.

Russia’s setback &nbsp;

Russia was able to launch a moonshot despite sanctions from the West over its involvement in the Ukraine War and growing isolation. However, some authorities question its capacity to support a Luna-25 replacement. The amount Russia spent on the expedition is unknown.

According to Moscow-based author and independent space specialist Vadim Lukashevich, the exploration costs are consistently decreasing annually.

A replication of Luna-25 is “extremely unlikely” given Russia’s budget priorities, he continued.

Prior to 2021, when it said it would collaborate with China on its moon plan, Russia had been considering a position in NASA’s Artemis programme. Little data about the attempt has been made public.

2019 saw China’s first-ever soft landing on the moon’s far side, while the country has additional missions in progress. According to space research company Euroconsult, China will invest $12 billion in its space project in 2022.

NASA’s strategy guide&nbsp;

According to officials, NASA has provided the blueprint that India is using by opening up to private funding.

For instance, SpaceX, run by Elon Musk, is creating the Starship rocket to carry NASA’s astronauts to the moon’s surface as part of a $3 billion contract.

In addition to that contract, Musk has stated that SpaceX will invest about $2 billion in Starship this year.

By the end of the year, or in 2024, lunar landers being constructed by the American space companies Astrobotic and Intuitive Machines (LUNR.O) are anticipated to be sent to the moon’s south pole.

Additionally, privately funded alternatives to the International Space Station are being created by businesses like Axiom Space and Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin. Axiom reported raising $350 million from Saudi and South Korean investors on Monday.

Space is still risky. India’s most recent moon mission failed in 2019, the same year an Israeli startup’s bid to make history by becoming the first privately funded moon mission also failed.

(With inputs from Reuters)

&nbsp;

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Presently, India hopes to win this week’s space race by being the first country to set foot on the moon’s south pole. The race is about science, politics of national pride, and a brand-new frontier: money.

Presently, India hopes to win this week’s space race by being the first country to set foot on the moon’s south pole. The race is about science, politics of national pride, and a brand-new frontier: money. India’s Chandrayaan-3 is scheduled to touch down on the lunar south pole on Wednesday. Analysts and businesspeople anticipate a quick boost for the nation’s fledgling space industry if it is successful. Before the lander plummeted from orbit and likely took with it the financing for a replacement mission, observers say, Russia’s Luna-25, which was launched less than two weeks ago, had been on pace to arrive first. The unexpected race to reach a previously undiscovered area of the moon brings to mind the space race between the US and the USSR in the 1960s. But now that space travel is a lucrative industry, the moon’s south pole is prized for the water ice that scientists believe could one day support a lunar colony, mining operations, and eventually journeys to Mars. With the help of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has privatised space launches and is attempting to attract international investment as it aims to grow its market share in the launch industry five-fold over the course of the next ten years. Analysts predict that India’s space industry will benefit from its reputation for cost-effective engineering if Chandrayaan-3 is a success. Only about $74 million was allocated by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for the project. The inspector general of the US space agency has calculated that NASA is on schedule to spend nearly $93 billion on its Artemis lunar plan through 2025. “The moment this mission is successful, it raises the profile of everyone associated with it,” said Ajey Lele, a consultant with the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses in New Delhi. Russia’s setback Russia was able to launch a moonshot despite sanctions from the West over its involvement in the Ukraine War and growing isolation. However, some authorities question its capacity to support a Luna-25 replacement. The amount Russia spent on the expedition is unknown. According to Moscow-based author and independent space specialist Vadim Lukashevich, the exploration costs are consistently decreasing annually. A replication of Luna-25 is “extremely unlikely” given Russia’s budget priorities, he continued. Prior to 2021, when it said it would collaborate with China on its moon plan, Russia had been considering a position in NASA’s Artemis programme. Little data about the attempt has been made public. 2019 saw China’s first-ever soft landing on the moon’s far side, while the country has additional missions in progress. According to space research company Euroconsult, China will invest $12 billion in its space project in 2022. NASA’s strategy guide According to officials, NASA has provided the blueprint that India is using by opening up to private funding. For instance, SpaceX, run by Elon Musk, is creating the Starship rocket to carry NASA’s astronauts to the moon’s surface as part of a $3 billion contract. In addition to that contract, Musk has stated that SpaceX will invest about $2 billion in Starship this year. By the end of the year, or in 2024, lunar landers being constructed by the American space companies Astrobotic and Intuitive Machines (LUNR.O) are anticipated to be sent to the moon’s south pole. Additionally, privately funded alternatives to the International Space Station are being created by businesses like Axiom Space and Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin. Axiom reported raising $350 million from Saudi and South Korean investors on Monday. Space is still risky. India’s most recent moon mission failed in 2019, the same year an Israeli startup’s bid to make history by becoming the first privately funded moon mission also failed. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

How the money is influencing a new space race with India’s boom and Russia’s crunch 

In this space competition, India hopes to win this week by landing first on the Moon's South Pole is not just about science and status but about money as well India is opening its space sector to foreign investment to increase its share. To know more watch this interview with the Senior Analyst of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, Dr Malcolm Davis.

The world watches as India's Chandrayaan-3 attempts to land on moon

India’s restricitve trade policies&nbsp;with custom duties as high as 22 per cent may have&nbsp;given Vietnam the upper hand for manufacturing smart phones, and other electronics, reports suggest.

The glass cover, the touch-screen display, the camera module, and the printed circuit board assembly, when combined, makes about 75 per cent of a smart phone’s bill-of-materials price. Vietnam, the world’s second-largest handset exporter after China, is able to source components with zero-tariff from trade partners.

In contrast, despite its eagerness to promote local smart phone manufacture, India has a four per cent cost disadvantage, according to the 2023 edition of a price comparison research published by the industry association India Cellular &amp; Electronics Association (ICEA).

India has intentionally increased the burden on assemblers even as it started compensating them for the various cost disadvantages that already exist, namely inadequate infrastructure and excessive regulations.

The existence of production-linked incentives, or PLIs, guarantees to pay businesses up to 4 per cent to 6 per cent of their additional sales for a period of five years. But the report suggests that India is hampering its ability to compete, while it pays companies to locate its plants there.

Another opinion holds that the assistance is “supported through indirect revenue from increased indirect taxes from the same sector,” as the ICEA study states.

Competition elsewhere in Asia and is focused on semiconductors. Several nations, ranging from Thailand to Singapore and Malaysia, are currently looking to move the manufacturing of front-end chips from East to Southeast and South Asia. India is attempting to climb that ladder through testing and packaging. While those intentions have yet to materialise, the nation is now Vietnam’s next competitor in a low-value-added activity like assembly electronics parts because to its affordable labour.

Multinational companies have altered their manufacturing plans after the pandemic and President Xi Jinping’s deteriorating relations with the West. Only a few weeks after they begin shipping from Chinese manufacturing, the Foxconn Technology Group plant in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu is getting ready to export iPhone 15s, according to a report by Bloomberg News.

Apple Inc. and other companies are wary of placing an undue reliance on China to meet global demand. India now has an opportunity to take over the supply chain as a result of their pursuit of a China+1 strategy. However, due to Samsung Electronics Co., Vietnam’s phone exports increased by six times last year compared to other South Asian countries. This is the difference that New Delhi seeks to bridge.

However, data from the ICEA revealed that India’s total cost disadvantage due to tariffs on smart phone components came to around 3.6 per cent in comparison to the cost gap with Vietnam. This competitive disadvantage may increase to a near 4 per cent. This could possibly prompt multinational companies to look for alternative manufacturing locations in countries like Vietnam, potentially making it a huge competitor to India.

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<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

India’s restricitve trade policies with custom duties as high as 22 per cent may have given Vietnam the upper hand for manufacturing smart phones, and other electronics, reports suggest.

India’s restricitve trade policies with custom duties as high as 22 per cent may have given Vietnam the upper hand for manufacturing smart phones, and other electronics, reports suggest. The glass cover, the touch-screen display, the camera module, and the printed circuit board assembly, when combined, makes about 75 per cent of a smart phone’s bill-of-materials price. Vietnam, the world’s second-largest handset exporter after China, is able to source components with zero-tariff from trade partners. In contrast, despite its eagerness to promote local smart phone manufacture, India has a four per cent cost disadvantage, according to the 2023 edition of a price comparison research published by the industry association India Cellular & Electronics Association (ICEA). India has intentionally increased the burden on assemblers even as it started compensating them for the various cost disadvantages that already exist, namely inadequate infrastructure and excessive regulations. The existence of production-linked incentives, or PLIs, guarantees to pay businesses up to 4 per cent to 6 per cent of their additional sales for a period of five years. But the report suggests that India is hampering its ability to compete, while it pays companies to locate its plants there. Another opinion holds that the assistance is “supported through indirect revenue from increased indirect taxes from the same sector,” as the ICEA study states. Competition elsewhere in Asia and is focused on semiconductors. Several nations, ranging from Thailand to Singapore and Malaysia, are currently looking to move the manufacturing of front-end chips from East to Southeast and South Asia. India is attempting to climb that ladder through testing and packaging. While those intentions have yet to materialise, the nation is now Vietnam’s next competitor in a low-value-added activity like assembly electronics parts because to its affordable labour. Multinational companies have altered their manufacturing plans after the pandemic and President Xi Jinping’s deteriorating relations with the West. Only a few weeks after they begin shipping from Chinese manufacturing, the Foxconn Technology Group plant in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu is getting ready to export iPhone 15s, according to a report by Bloomberg News. Apple Inc. and other companies are wary of placing an undue reliance on China to meet global demand. India now has an opportunity to take over the supply chain as a result of their pursuit of a China+1 strategy. However, due to Samsung Electronics Co., Vietnam’s phone exports increased by six times last year compared to other South Asian countries. This is the difference that New Delhi seeks to bridge. However, data from the ICEA revealed that India’s total cost disadvantage due to tariffs on smart phone components came to around 3.6 per cent in comparison to the cost gap with Vietnam. This competitive disadvantage may increase to a near 4 per cent. This could possibly prompt multinational companies to look for alternative manufacturing locations in countries like Vietnam, potentially making it a huge competitor to India. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Vietnam likely to benefit more from India’s restrictive trade policy

India's Chandrayaan-3 mission is progressing slowly for a lunar touchdown at 6pm IST on the 23rd of August. However, in case of an anomaly, the landing could be postponed to Sunday the 27th of August. Watch to know what the Moon Man of India who was also the former ISRO Satellite Centre Director Dr Mylswamy Annadurai has to say about the mission.

Dr Mylswamy Annadurai speaks to WION on Chandrayaan-3 landing

Greek Ambassador to India, Dimitrios Ioannou, hailed the upcoming visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Athens on August 25, at the invitation of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Ioannou emphasized the significance of the visit, noting that the last visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Greece took place 40 years ago.

Greek Ambassador Ioannou welcomes PM Modi's Athens visit, commends India's Mediterranean presence

India's central bank is nudging local banks to ask their clients to settle trade between the United Arab Emirates and India using the Dirham (AED) or Indian rupee (INR) to reduce US-dollar-based transactions, according to sources cited by Reuters.

India central bank nudges banks to settle UAE trades in Rupee, Dirham

India has made its mark, propelling itself to the 11th position in the global rankings. With a 5.4% surge in 2022, this industry has become a beacon of hope for the Indian economy.

India moves up to 11th position in global direct selling ranking

Many people associate a trip to Africa with spotting the big 5 on a Safari, but did you know that India also has incredible potential as a wildlife tourism destination? In the heart of India we unlock the country's astonishing potential as a wildlife tourism haven. Immerse yourself in the diverse ecosystems that shelter incredible species, from regal tigers to majestic elephants. Witness the harmony between nature and culture, and uncover the treasures that make India a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.

India's potential as a Wildlife Tourism Destination

India and UAE are taking de-dollarisation seriously. India's central bank RBI is nudging local banks. To settle trade between the UAE and India using either the dirham or the Indian rupee.

De-dollarisation: RBI urges lenders to use Rupee or Dirham in trade with the UAE

Making significant progress towards India's lunar exploration ambitions, Chandrayaan-3 is advancing smoothly and is poised to touch down at the moon's southern pole on August 23rd.

Chandrayaan-3: ISRO aims for the moon, mars and beyond

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