Should We Switch Off Our Economy: Indian Envoy Defends Oil Ties With Russia, Questions Western ‘Convenience' Deals
In an interview with Times Radio, the Indian envoy highlighted the inconsistencies in the West's stance, noting that many European countries continue to buy rare earths and other energy products from the same suppliers they now expect India to avoid. 'Don't you think that seems a little odd?' Doraiswami remarked.
India, the world's third-largest oil importer, traditionally relied on the Middle East for its energy needs. However, after facing steep discounts from Russia, which began redirecting exports following Western sanctions over its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, India shifted a substantial portion of its imports to Moscow.
Addressing questions about India's ties with Russia and President Vladimir Putin, Doraiswami said the relationship is built on several long-standing factors, including historical security cooperation.
'There was a time when some of our Western partners refused to sell us weapons but supplied them to our neighbours, who then used them against us,' he said.
He further pointed out that India's energy trade with Russia is a result of being priced out of other markets, as global buyers outbid India for energy sources it once relied on.
'We import over 80% of our energy. We're the third-largest consumer in the world. What would you have us do, switch off our economy?' he asked.
Doraiswami also questioned the double standards in global diplomacy, highlighting that several nations maintain relationships of convenience with countries that pose challenges to India's own interests.
'Do we ask you to come up with a little test of loyalty?' he said.
On the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the envoy reiterated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently advocated for peace.
'He has said repeatedly, including to both President Putin and President Zelensky, that this is not an era of war,' Doraiswami emphasized.
'We want this terrible conflict to end, just as we want other conflicts around the world to end,' he concluded.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
40 minutes ago
- Time of India
Another Cooch Behar man gets Assam NRC notice
Jalpaiguri: Yet another Cooch Behar resident has received an NRC notice from Assam's Foreigners Tribunal. Baxirhat resident Dipankar Sarkar, who works as a carpenter in Guwahati's Paltan Bazar, has been residing in Assam for over a decade. In 2014, he was summoned by Assam Police on suspicion of being a Bangladeshi intruder and a case was registered against him in 2015. The notice, dated Jan 24 this year, was received by Sarkar in March. It directs him to appear before the tribunal with documents to establish his Indian nationality. You Can Also Check: Kolkata AQI | Weather in Kolkata | Bank Holidays in Kolkata | Public Holidays in Kolkata Sarkar disclosed the receipt of the notice on Thursday evening. Soon, Cooch Behar TMC president Avijit De Bhowmik shared an image of the notice on social media. While TMC has advised Sarkar to disregard the notice and assured him of all necessary assistance, BJP accused TMC of trying to play the "Bengali card". Similar notices were earlier issued to three other residents of Cooch Behar — Uttam Kumar Brajabashi, Nishikanta Das and Mamina Bibi.
Time of India
40 minutes ago
- Time of India
Many green card holders shelve travel plans after US advisory
Hyderabad: The US Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) recent reminder to all green card holders about carrying proof of their alien registration at all times, has left Indian immigrants anxious. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Speaking to TOI, many of them said that despite having valid documents they have shelved their holiday plans or turned down invites to family functions. Some have even put off their work trips, fearing trouble. As per the USCBP's recent advisory, not having an "alien registration or alien registration receipt card" can lead to "misdemeanour and fines" if stopped by federal law enforcement. "I cancelled a trip to Atlanta for my niece's wedding because I didn't want to take a flight and risk being questioned," said an Indian from New York who has been living in the US for over 15 years. "Even though my documents are in order, it's just not worth the stress," he added. Similarly, another immigrant — a resident of Chicago for 10 years — shared how he has called off his trip to Florida for the time being. "I recently secured my green card and I cannot risk anything," he added. More fines in 2025: attorneys Immigration attorneys say that while the law requiring green card holders to carry their registration has been in place for long, under the Immigration and Nationality Act, it has rarely been enforced in the past. "In 2025, there's an uptick in CBP issuing fines, penalising people for not carrying their green cards," said Nicole Gunara, principal immigration attorney at Manifest Law, US. She added: "In Southern California alone the officials have issued fines to 46 individuals for not carrying their green card. This is twice as many as issued in the entire 2024." While families acknowledge the need for regulation, such moves, they say instill fear even among the law-abiding populace. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now "We came here legally. We pay taxes and contribute to the country's economy. But when you hear things like this, it reminds you how fragile your status is. I've started carrying my green card with me everywhere," said a 54-year-old, living in New Jersey for the last 21 years. Lawyers uphold this practice. "Under the current administration, it's best to always keep your original documents and proofs with you. So far, we have not seen any cases of deportation, but fines/violations are never good. Compliance is everything now," said Gunara. MSID:: 123044976 413 |
Business Standard
40 minutes ago
- Business Standard
Why Learning Foreign Languages Is the New Career Power Move for Indian Youth
India PR Distribution New Delhi [India], August 1: In today's globalized world, the ability to communicate in more than one language is not just a skill--it's a career accelerator. As India's young workforce continues to compete on a global stage, learning foreign languages such as German, French, Japanese, and Spanish has become one of the smartest moves for career growth, overseas education, and international job opportunities. Foreign Languages Open Global Career Doors From multinational corporations to international universities, the demand for multilingual professionals is on the rise. Countries like Germany, Japan, and France are actively welcoming Indian students and skilled professionals. In many cases, proficiency in the native language is either a requirement or a strong advantage. For example, German companies operating in India often prefer candidates who can speak and understand German. Similarly, Japan offers a large number of technical internships and long-term employment options for Indians with Japanese language skills. The ability to communicate in the local language not only improves the quality of professional interactions but also makes integration into society smoother. Boosting Employability and Salary Potential Hiring managers consistently place language skills among the top desirable traits in global candidates. Bilingual and multilingual individuals are often offered better job roles and salary packages. In sectors like hospitality, aviation, international business, IT, and translation services, foreign language proficiency is a competitive edge. Students who pursue international education also benefit greatly. Whether applying to German public universities, enrolling in French business schools, or preparing for Japanese corporate internships, language skills strengthen a student's profile. Many institutes are now helping bridge this gap. The Indian Institute of Foreign Languages offers structured programs in German, French, Japanese, Spanish, and English--both online and offline--making it easier for students across India to gain certification and fluency. India's Youth are Catching On More Indian students and professionals are recognizing the value of foreign languages. Enrollments in language certification programs have increased significantly over the past few years, especially among students preparing for study abroad, jobs in Europe or Japan, and global business ventures. With the rise of digital learning, students from cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, and even Tier 2 towns can now access high-quality language courses from the comfort of their homes. Institutes offering weekend and evening batches have made it easier for working professionals to learn without disrupting their daily routines. A Lifelong Skill With Endless Benefits Beyond careers, learning a foreign language also improves memory, cognitive flexibility, and cross-cultural understanding. It builds confidence, sharpens communication, and makes international travel more rewarding. In an era where remote jobs, overseas migration, and global networking are common, the ability to speak an additional language is no longer optional--it's essential. Where to Begin? For Indian youth looking to get started, it's important to choose the right course and certification. Most global employers and universities recognize international language tests such as Goethe-Zertifikat (German), JLPT (Japanese), DELF/DALF (French), and DELE (Spanish). Institutions like the Indian Institute of Foreign Languages not only prepare students for these exams but also provide career guidance, flexible timing, and access to native-speaking trainers and online learning tools. Conclusion In a world that's becoming more interconnected every day, foreign language skills are the bridge between Indian talent and global opportunity. Whether your goal is to study in Germany, work in Japan, or run a business with international clients, speaking a second language gives you a powerful head start. For India's young professionals and students, learning a foreign language may be the smartest career move they make this decade. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by India PR Distribution. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
