China threat dominates US defence debate

IANS | May 1, 2026 7:58 AM

Washington, May 1 (IANS) China’s growing military assertiveness and its alignment with Russia, Iran and North Korea emerged as a central theme during a high-stakes US Senate hearing on defence spending, with potential implications for India’s strategic calculus.

Hegseth, senators clash over Iran war, budget

IANS | May 1, 2026 7:55 AM

Washington, May 1 (IANS) A heated Senate hearing saw sharp clashes between US SEcretary of War Pete Hegseth and lawmakers, as divisions deepened over the Iran war, rising costs and a proposed $1.5 trillion defence budget.

Trump expands IRA access for millions

IANS | May 1, 2026 7:51 AM

Washington, May 1 (IANS) US President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at expanding access to retirement savings accounts for millions of Americans, particularly low-income workers and those without employer-sponsored plans.

Rights group raises alarm over debt bondage of poor communities across Pakistan

IANS | April 30, 2026 9:31 PM

Berlin, April 30 (IANS) A leading international human rights organisation has highlighted the plight of the poorest section in Pakistan, including a disproportionate number of Christians, who are often trapped in debt bondage after taking cash advances from “dubious” moneylenders in times of need, without being informed of the terms and conditions.