Different perspective to tackle embarrassment of 2026

The West Asia crisis has engulfed the global economy, and India too has not remained untouched by its impact. Yet, there is still a significant difference in the way India is responding compared to many other countries.

Burdened by rising crude oil prices, countries across the world immediately increased retail fuel prices and passed the entire burden directly onto consumers. In the United States, consumers have already spent as much—or even more—on petrol in just three months (March to May) this year than they spent during the entire previous year. In India, however, the increase in fuel prices has only just begun.

One can only imagine how many other goods and sectors will be affected when fuel prices alone become expensive. And this is where the fear of the next wave of inflation begins—an inflationary cycle that could eventually push businesses toward an economic slowdown.

During the severe crisis of the COVID pandemic as well, both the Indian government and the people faced the situation with patience, wisdom, and maturity.

Everyone has different ways of thinking and responding to difficult situations. In my opinion, the year 2026 is going to be highly challenging for everyone. In this context, I recently had discussions with three manufacturers. Although all three belonged to different sectors—one was a machinery manufacturer, one a laminate producer, and the third a shuttering plywood manufacturer—their reactions, perspectives, and approaches were entirely different.

The first gentleman sighed deeply and said in a worried tone, “Only three months have passed so far. Over the next nine months, industrialists may become completely exhausted struggling with these conditions.”

But also check out the other two’s encouraging contemporary thoughts, which will inspire everyone.

The second manufacturer said, thinking seriously, “This means competition will become even more intense. We will have to make greater efforts to reach our customers. Hard work will increase, margins will shrink, but we will also be able to reach and add new customers.”

The third responded calmly and confidently, “Now we will finally get time to strengthen our infrastructure for 2027 and also focus on R&D work that we were unable to do earlier because we remained trapped in routine operations.

This phase will help us prepare ourselves much more stronger in 2027.”

Suresh Bahety | 9050800888