Hello and welcome to the Intelligence from the Economist. I'm your host, Shashankjochi,

filling in for Jason Palmer. Every weekday we provide a fresh perspective on the events

shaping your world. India's government has made extensive and impressive use of technology

in delivering services to its huge population. But what happens when people can't access

the apps that they need for education, rations or benefits? We look at the downside of government

by tech. And perhaps you've rented a dress for a special occasion or a dinner jacket?

They have you ever had a subscription for clothes? We consider the prospect of fashion company

rent the runway as it goes public today.

First up though.

This week the United Nations warned that Afghanistan is on the cusp of the world's worst humanitarian

crisis. More than half the population, some 23 million people won't have enough to eat

come November. There is a tsunami of destitution, incredible suffering and hunger spiraling out

of control across Afghanistan, pushing millions and millions of its people to the brink of survival.

The economic crunch is only getting worse. In its most recent report the IMF said that Afghan GDP

might shrink by as much as 30 percent thanks to falling imports, a depreciating currency,

and inflation that is out of control. The UN has also predicted that 97 percent of Afghans will

be impoverished by the new year. Desperate people will take desperate decisions. From selling

their children as we have all seen reported in the media, migrating in search of support

or sadly joining radical groups that offer short-term solutions.

One of those groups is the local branch of Islamic State, a fierce opponent of the Taliban.

More than 40 people were killed earlier this month when Islamic State's suicide bombers struck

a mosque in Kandahar. That isn't just a problem for the Taliban. Yesterday, a senior Pentagon

...