3 Things Venezuela's oil, midday meal cooks on strike, and unrest in Assam
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Jan 21, 2026 Anil Sasi, National Business Editor at The Indian Express, discusses the geopolitical implications of Venezuela's oil reserves, highlighting why major companies are hesitant to invest due to legal and political risks. Meanwhile, Jayprakash Naidu sheds light on the ongoing protests by midday meal cooks in Chhattisgarh, who demand better wages and recognition for their vital role in feeding children. Lastly, Sukrita Baruah reports on the unrest in Assam's Bodoland region, detailing triggers of violence and the impact of internet suspension on the community.
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Long Horizons Needed But Visibility Lacks
- Oil companies hesitate because past expropriations, uncertain US political tenure, and unclear local governance increase long-term risk.
- Firms need 15–20 years of visibility for major petroleum investments, which they lack now.
Minimal Market Impact So Far
- Maduro's removal had little immediate impact on global oil prices because most Venezuelan output was contracted to China.
- Limited market exposure and refinery compatibility muted any short-term price shock.
Operation Signals Geopolitical Motive
- The US operation is notable because the Trump administration openly framed the intervention around oil.
- That explicitness signals a geopolitical message to China and Russia about hemispheric influence.