Expert Comment — Global Programme 2026 07 08 TThe global debt crisis that began with Sri Lanka’s default in 2022 has spread to encompass 52 developing countries. Total developing country external debt has reached $3.9 trillion, and debt service payments absorb an increasing share of government revenues. For the first time in history, developing countries
Expert Comment — Asia Programme 20 March 2026 Key Findings India has the world’s youngest large population with a median age of 28, but job creation lags far behind workforce growth. Youth unemployment stands at nearly 20 per cent, with significant underemployment even among university graduates. Female labour force participation has declined to around 20
India’s Demographic Gamble: Can 1.5 Billion People Become an Economic Advantage? Read More »
Expert Comment — South Asia Programme 2026-03-10 TWhen the Indian government announced the India Semiconductor Mission in 2022 with a $10 billion incentive package, the response from global chip companies was initially enthusiastic. Micron committed $2.75 billion for an assembly and test facility in Gujarat. The Tata Group partnered with Taiwan’s PSMC for a $3
Expert Comment — South Asia Programme 23 February 2026 The narrative is seductive in its simplicity. As Western companies seek to reduce their dependence on Chinese manufacturing supply chains, India — with its large workforce, democratic institutions, and improving infrastructure — is perfectly positioned to capture the “China plus one” opportunity. Prime Minister Modi’s Production-Linked
The China Plus One Mirage: Why India’s Manufacturing Ambitions Face an Uphill Climb Read More »
