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Observer Research Foundation

The latest news and top stories on Observer Research Foundation. A prominent Delhi India based independent global think tank, the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) is dedicated to aiding policy thinking for a strong and prosperous India in a fair and equitable world. Established in 1990, its main areas of focus include strategic studies, foreign policy, sustainable economic development, technology and climate change. ORF is recognised for providing non-partisan analysis to decision-makers and for its significant role in shaping global debates, notably through events like the Raisina Dialogue.

Observer Research Foundation

Trump’s 500% tariff push raises risk of India-US trade freeze

Such punitive tariffs would erode India’s export competitiveness and force the country to reorient its trade elsewhere, analysts warn.

Building bridges? India proposes inviting Chinese firms back to public projects

‘It’s paying off’: India spreads its trade bets to beat Trump’s 50% tariff

India’s military upgrade to counter regional threats gathers pace

While US$30 billion of defence packages for weapon buys and others have been approved, the pace of roll-out is worrying, analysts say.

Myanmar’s criticism of Takaichi signals ‘loyalty’ to China ahead of election

A junta spokesman slammed the Japanese prime minister’s comments on Taiwan, saying Tokyo had not shown remorse for its ‘crimes’ in Asia.

‘It’s time for us to rise’: India races to rebuild its lost maritime muscle

India is eyeing a future as a leading shipping and shipbuilding nation, backed by big investments – and expertise from South Korea and Japan.

Russia’s Su-57 offer boosts India’s ‘strategic options’ amid strained US ties

The move signals Moscow’s desire to revitalise defence ties with New Delhi and offer ‘solutions’ to its military upgrade drive, analysts say.

India still behind as China-made submarines boost Pakistan’s naval power

The Indian Navy’s self-reliance drive is being undercut by chronic ‘sluggishness’ in procurement, analysts say.

Will US approval for arms sales to India pave the way for a trade deal?

The US$93 million arms supply could help reduce India’s goods surplus with the US as both sides seek to reach a trade deal, analysts say.

Are US-India ties set for a rebound after Trump’s trade talk optimism?

Uncertainty over a coming Quad summit in New Delhi weighs on ties, but Trump’s upbeat tone hints at a possible thaw.

Outrage in India over Vance’s wish for his Hindu wife to become a Christian

The US vice-president’s failure to mention his wife’s faith at an event has also struck a nerve in Hindu-majority India.

Why India maintains a balancing act in defence between US and Russia

The renewal of a defence framework between India and the US comes as Delhi continues to tap Russia for its military supplies.

India pressured to stop Russian oil imports after US sanctions on 2 producers

Despite Washington’s sanctions against Russian oil producers, India is expected to increase its purchases of other goods from Moscow.

India’s army to boost deterrence along borders with new commando, drone units

The army will be equipped with new carbines and Javelin launchers in line with India’s goal to carry out military reforms.

Trump’s 100% tariff threat puts India’s drug industry on edge

While the tariff announcement on patented drugs sent Indian pharma stocks tumbling, a tentative digital trade deal could show a path forward.

Is India’s ‘Look West’ policy anchored by Iranian port under threat?

With the US removing a waiver on sanctions for the port, India is set to re-examine its goal of expanding trade with its western neighbours.

Can India reset ties with Nepal, sidestep ‘big brother’ perceptions?

New Delhi’s political interference in Nepal and Bangladesh has led the two countries to draw closer to China, analysts say.

Can the Philippines ‘Trump-proof’ its US alliance to deter China?

A new report warns that the Philippines still lacks the tools to counter China without a dependable US defence partner.

‘Short-sighted’: India’s realpolitik on Myanmar imperils Asean’s peace plans

Modi’s meeting with Min Aung Hlaing risks lending the junta legitimacy and undermining efforts to resolve Myanmar’s civil war, analysts say.

Why India is easing rupee trade rules amid US tariff tensions

Move reflects India’s desire to insulate itself from foreign currency fluctuations and could reduce country’s reliance on US dollar, analysts say.

Will a Russia-Ukraine peace deal save India from US tariffs?

India has stepped up purchases of discounted Russian crude since the onset of the Ukraine war, straining relations with Washington.

India and Pakistan enter a new missile race after deadly border clash

As India invests in more BrahMos missiles and upgraded SAAW systems, observers say Pakistan is ‘copying China’ with a new rocket force.

India gears up for long-awaited return of Chinese tourists

India anticipates a tourism boost after it resumed accepting Chinese tourist visa applications last month after a five-year hiatus.

Beijing ‘on high alert’ for disruption after Philippine-India navy patrol: PLA

‘Manila appears to be seeking the backing of external powers to enhance its leverage in negotiations and to counterbalance China’: academic.

‘India in’: Modi’s visit, aid pledge reshape Maldives ties as China wavers

India’s willingness to support the Maldives through its economic woes has helped shift Male’s stance to one of cooperation, analysts say.

New Apaches for India: are US helicopters battle-ready for future threats?

While the Indian army has hailed a delivery of three Apache AH-64E, experts are divided over the helicopters’ long-term battle potential.

Defence diversification: India pivots to Europe for next-gen fighter tech

French company Safran is tipped to develop engines for India’s planned stealth fighter aircraft, with UK’s Rolls-Royce also in the running.

India in a fix over Trump’s tariff threat aimed at Russian oil

If Russia fails to end the war in Ukraine within 50 days, India fears that the tariff could cause a spike in oil prices, analysts say.