Policy analysis

The global economic growth is driven by strong economic activity in India, alongside recoveries in Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

While safeguarding investments aligns with Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative objectives, overreach risks fuelling resentment and triggering regional pushback.

For Afghanistan, India’s support represents a vital lifeline as it navigates complex domestic and regional challenges. The agreement to promote trade, enhance humanitarian aid, and address shared security concerns lays the groundwork for a more cooperative relationship.

Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE), a key driver of domestic demand, is projected to grow by 7.3 per cent in 2024-25, a sharp increase from the 4.0 per cent growth recorded in 2023-24.

Officials said that development partners reduced grants for infrastructure projects following Bangladesh's graduation from Lower- Income Countries (LIC) status to Lower Middle- Income Country (LMIC) in 2013.

The Punjab government, under an agreement with the World Bank, refrained from procuring wheat, leaving growers at the mercy of market forces.

SOEs, including SriLankan Airlines, Sri Lanka Telecom, and Ceylon Petroleum Corporation, have long been plagued by mismanagement and inefficiencies, burdening taxpayers.

Currently, there are 2,113 water testing laboratories across the country, with 1,381 accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories.