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The Mithila region, located primarily in the northern part of Bihar (India) and the eastern Terai of Nepal, is a land rich in heritage, traditions, and intellectual legacy. Known for its vibrant culture, deep-rooted traditions, and scholarly past, Mithila has been an important cultural and political centre for thousands of years. Its history traces back to the Vedic age, and its identity continues to thrive in modern times. Janakpur  Mithila in the Vedic Age The earliest references to Mithila are found in the Satapatha Brāhmaṇa , a key text of the Yajur Veda, which describes the region as the kingdom of Videha . This kingdom was ruled by legendary kings such as Janaka , who became immortal in Indian tradition for his wisdom and philosophical depth. Philosophy and Spirituality King Janaka is remembered as the father of Sita (from the Ramayana) and as a philosopher-king who engaged in deep discussions with sages like Yajnavalkya. The court of Janaka was a hub of Vedic scholarshi...

The United States and India, the world’s largest and oldest democracies, share a relationship rooted in shared values, economic opportunity, and strategic goals. From decades of cautious engagement to today’s multifaceted partnership, the journey has been complex and dynamic. Yet, in 2025, the relationship faces a serious test—tariff disputes that risk overshadowing decades of progress. U.S. President Donald Trump (R) arrives for a joint news conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington, U.S., June 26, 2017.  REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque This article examines the history of US–India relations, the current tariff standoff, and how both nations can move toward a stronger, mutually beneficial future. A Brief History of USA–India Relations The Early Years (1947–1991) After India gained independence in 1947, diplomatic relations with the U.S. began on a cordial note. However, during the Cold War, ideological differences and global a...

  Oil is not just a commodity; it's the lifeblood of the global economy. From fuelling vehicles and aeroplanes to powering industries and generating electricity, oil plays an irreplaceable role in modern civilisation. The global oil market, shaped by reserves, production capacities, geopolitical alliances, and strategic interests, has long been dominated by a few powerful nations. Among them, the United States and Russia have consistently stood at the helm due to their massive reserves and production capabilities. Photo by Tom Fisk However, in recent years, emerging economies like India have begun to influence global oil dynamics more significantly—not through reserves or production, but through consumption, strategic alliances, and refining capacity. As the world transitions into a new energy order—where geopolitics, climate goals, and market economics intersect—the roles of these three nations are becoming more complex and interdependent. Global Oil Reserves: A Snapshot Oil rese...

  What is BRICS? BRICS is an acronym representing an association of five major emerging economies: B razil, R ussia, I ndia, C hina, and S outh Africa. Since its inception, the group has aimed to enhance cooperation among these countries and boost their collective influence in global affairs, both politically and economically, as well as in multilateral institutions. BRICS Summit 1. Origins & Founding From BRIC to BRICS The concept began as BRIC in 2001, coined by economist Jim O’Neill to symbolise Brazil, Russia, India, and China as rising economic powers. Learn more These four met for the first time at the G8 Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Yekaterinburg in May 2008, followed by an official BRIC foreign ministers’ meeting on 16 June 2008 Motivated by shared interests—economic growth, increased voice in global governance, and multilateralism—the first BRIC leaders' summit was convened in Yekaterinburg on 16 June 2009 , during the global financial crisis . South Afri...

 The relationship between the United States and Canada stands as one of the most enduring and cooperative bilateral partnerships in the world. These two nations share more than just the world’s longest undefended border — they share intertwined histories, economies, military alliances, and social values. From the thick forests of Quebec to the bustling ports of Seattle and Vancouver, this relationship has grown into a model of peaceful coexistence and mutual progress. Photo by Thomas K A Brief History of USA-Canada Relations The foundation of the U.S.-Canada relationship dates back to the colonial era. Though they were once adversaries during events like the War of 1812, the two nations have since built an exceptionally stable partnership. Canada gained independence gradually from Britain between 1867 and 1982, and over time, ties with the U.S. became more critical. In the 20th century, both countries fought side-by-side in World Wars, the Korean War, and NATO operations. The crea...