energy transition

The West Asia conflict is prompting the Indian government to accelerate its renewable energy transition, including potentially increasing ethanol blending in petrol. This strategic shift aims to bolster domestic resilience and reduce reliance on volatile global energy supplies, alongside expanding refining capacity and strategic petroleum reserves.

India faces a significant "live balance of payments stress test" due to the West Asian crisis, impacting inflation and currency, Chief Economic Advisor V Anantha Nageswaran stated. He emphasized that managing the current account and preventing currency depreciation are key macroeconomic goals for FY27.

Vrishabha Sankranti arrives tomorrow, May 15, 2026. The Sun moves into the Taurus zodiac sign. This event holds significant religious and spiritual importance. Auspicious timings for Punya Kala and Maha Punya Kala are noted. Devotees can appease Lord Surya through various rituals including offering water and chanting mantras. This transit is expected to bring professional growth for many.

Experts have hailed the MOUs, calling them game-changing for India’s energy security in the long-term. The importance of having strategic petroleum reserves has been brought to light with stark clarity due to the US-Iran war.

India has strongly condemned an attack on an Indian-flagged ship near Oman, deeming it 'unacceptable' and expressing deep concern over ongoing threats to commercial shipping. All Indian crew members aboard the vessel are reported safe, with thanks extended to Omani authorities for their rescue.

From May 15 to June 15, 2026, the Sun's shift from Aries to Taurus signals a period of practical reassessment and potential disruption. This year, Uranus and Saturn's influence in Taurus, alongside Mercury and Venus, introduce unexpected changes, financial focus, and relationship dynamics, demanding both opportunity and correction across zodiac signs.

Iran's IRGC has warned of a "heavy assault" on US military assets and ships if Iranian oil tankers or commercial vessels are attacked in the Strait of Hormuz. This follows US forces disabling two Iranian oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman and an earlier exchange of fire near the strait.

India's merchandise trade deficit surged to $28.38 billion in April, driven by a 10% rise in imports despite a significant drop in shipments from the Middle East. Elevated crude oil prices and global supply disruptions contributed to increased import costs, raising concerns about the external sector and the rupee's stability.

Project Freedom, initiated by US President Trump, aims to free ships trapped in the Persian Gulf after Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz. US forces are actively escorting merchant vessels and have engaged Iranian boats. Meanwhile, missile attacks from Iran have struck the Emirati port of Fujairah, wounding three Indians, an act India deems unacceptable.