ThePrint GeopoliticsWithSwasti:India’s drone policy, renewed US interest in Middle East & why Saudi’s betting big on sports | Ep35
Nov 30, 2025
Explore India's draft drone policy and its potential impact on innovation. Discover the implications of MBS's recent White House visit and the strengthening US-Saudi security ties. Dive into Saudi Arabia's hefty investments in sports as part of its Vision 2030 strategy aimed at diversifying its economy. Gain insights into the challenges India faces with Iranian oil imports amid sanctions. Finally, unravel the reasons behind the rupee's depreciation amidst global trade uncertainties.
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Draft Drone Rules Hinder Innovation
- The 2025 Indian drone draft tightens rules and adds heavy paperwork, making innovation and rapid deployment difficult.
- Swasti Rao expects the draft to be revised because, in its current form, enforcement and compliance look impractical.
Rupee Fall Driven By Trade And Dollar Forces
- The rupee's recent fall reflects trade uncertainty, a strong dollar and a widening trade deficit that together pressure the currency.
- Swasti Rao says RBI tools like forex intervention and interest-rate moves can help, but timing and political factors matter.
Russia Lacks Bandwidth To Rescue Maduro
- Russia's capacity to protect Maduro is limited by the drain of resources and focus from the war in Ukraine.
- Swasti Rao argues Russia cannot realistically mount major interventions in Latin America while consumed by Ukraine.