Tourism is a major driver of economic growth, inclusive development, and environmental sustainability, and in several developing countries it is one of main sources of income, foreign currency earnings, tax revenue and employment. Overall tourism serves as a catalyst for economic and social transformation, as well as helps develop resilience and sustainability in local communities, bringing about shared progress for all. Considering the overwhelming importance of tourism to socio-economic development of nations—as well as its vulnerability to uncertainties brought on by geopolitical turmoils, economic turbulence, health hazards and climate change repercussions—it is vital to invest in building a more durable tourism sector.

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At a time when the global economy faces persistent uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, inflationary pressures, and slowing trade, India has stood out as one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies. In an exclusive interview with The Times Kuwait, noted Indian economist Dr. Rajat Kathuria offered a comprehensive perspective on the foundations of India’s resilience and the roadmap for sustained, inclusive growth. Dr. Kathuria was in Kuwait as part of the ‘Viksit Bharat 2047 – India-Kuwait Dialogues’, organized by the Embassy of India in collaboration with the Indian Business and Professional Council (IBPC), where he delivered insights on India’s long-term economic transformation strategy.

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Many expats are wary of the advent of Ramadan. It is during this month that eating, drinking, and smoking in public is forbidden and even punished by fines and imprisonment; cafes and restaurants remain closed until after sunset; many shops and businesses have irregular hours and seem to open or close at whim; nighttime traffic is a nightmare; and life in general seems to be turned upside down. Many Muslims, on the other hand, look forward to the holy month as a festive season marked by family get-togethers and late night socializing, a spirit of community, charity, and spiritual renewal, and a welcome change of pace.

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Finance Minister Dr. Yaqoub Al-Rifai presented the draft budget for the fiscal year 2026-2027 (FY2026-27) on 11 February to the Council of Ministers for approval. The budget for FY2026-27, which runs from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027, shows expenditures estimated at KD26.1 billion, while projected revenues stand at KD16.3 billion, representing a 54.7 percent increase in budget deficit compared to the current budget that ends on 31 March 2026. The surge in deficit comes on the back of increasing expenditures and conservative oil revenue estimates.

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