IMF sees strong Bhutan growth, flags fiscal and crypto risks

IANS | January 29, 2026 8:55 AM

Washington, Jan 29 (IANS) Bhutan’s economy is projected to grow a strong 7.4 per cent in FY2025/26 and remain sturdy in the following year, propelled by rising hydropower exports, a tourism rebound, and higher capital spending, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said.

Rubio clashes with senators over war powers, NATO

IANS | January 29, 2026 8:49 AM

Washington, Jan 29 (IANS) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio faced sharp questioning from senators over presidential war powers, NATO unity, and America’s global role, as lawmakers debated the legality and long-term consequences of US actions in Venezuela.

US museum to return three Indian sculptures from Tamil Nadu

IANS | January 29, 2026 8:25 AM

Washington, Jan 29 (IANS) The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art has announced that it will return three historic South Indian bronze sculptures to India after provenance research established that the works had been illegally removed from temple settings decades ago.

India-EU trade pact triggers alarm bells in Washington

IANS | January 29, 2026 7:33 AM

Washington, Jan 29 (IANS) Washington reacted with unease after India and the European Union sealed a landmark free trade agreement, with influential lawmakers, top administration officials, and policy experts warning that America risks being sidelined.

US Senators clash over DHS funding as Republican warn of govt shutdown

IANS | January 29, 2026 7:26 AM

Washington, Jan 29 (IANS) A bitter fight over funding for the Department of Homeland Security escalated in the US Senate, with Republicans warning of a possible government shutdown and Democrats demanding changes to rein in immigration enforcement agencies after recent fatal incidents.

Trump touts tech boom, market highs as firms back new accounts

IANS | January 29, 2026 6:48 AM

Washington, Jan 29 (IANS) US President Donald Trump has claimed a surge in investment, record stock market gains, and strong backing from major technology, finance, and consumer companies, as he argued the United States is entering an unprecedented economic expansion.