With the ecological changes in the lake, the livelihoods of fishermen have also transformed. Their profession remains, their skill remains, their devotion remains, but their days are longer, their searches wider, and their catches lighter. Dal Lake is more than a postcard of Kashmir—it is a living world of memories, livelihoods, and quiet moments that
Kashmir’s Dal Lake: How Fishermen Navigate a Changing Ecology Read More »
Wetlands hold immense potential both in economic and ecological sense, but fragmented governance across departments and a lack of scientific monitoring create major challenges for the development of a wetland-centric economy. Without solving the governance issue, no wetland economy can take off. Bihar has one of India’s richest networks of wetlands- oxbow lakes, floodplain
From Water to Wealth: Bihar’s Wetland-Centric Development Read More »
Bihar still lacks a modern food-processing ecosystem; raw makhana is often sold to traders in states like West Bengal, Delhi, and Maharashtra, where private companies manage the stages of cleaning, roasting, flavouring, and packaging. These states then market the final product under premium brands, reaping profits that should have ideally strengthened Bihar’s local economy. Did
The Makhana Paradox: Bihar Grows It, Others Gain Read More »
Legally, these Foreign University campuses in India don’t need to implement reservations, leading to the creation of a parallel higher education system in India that is distinct from the Indian model of social inclusion. The entry of Foreign Universities into India is a multifaceted phenomenon, driven by shifts in the global education landscape and by
Foreign Universities in India: Opportunities and Risks Read More »
Their struggle is not with creativity, but with access. They can weave magic with their hands, but they lack a platform — a place to reach customers directly. Most of their earnings are eaten up by middlemen and wholesalers who buy at low prices and sell at high margins elsewhere. The handloom industry is one
Threads of Nepura: Reviving Bihar’s Handloom Heritage Read More »
The Anganwadi Sevikas (AWWs) in Bihar, numbering over 1.12 lakh, are the frontline functionaries of the Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 scheme, the Government of India’s flagship programme for early childhood care and nutrition. Yet, despite their vital role, these Anganwadi Sevikas are not recognised as government employees and are left without any access to job
Bihar’s Anganwadi Sevikas: India’s Unsung Care Workers Read More »
Across primary and secondary facilities, over 61% and 56% sanctioned posts were vacant. Tertiary and AYUSH facilities also suffer from alarmingly high vacancy rates, resulting in an overall personnel shortage of 60%. Such gaps are not just theoretical; they translate into overworked staff, unattended beds, and poor-quality healthcare. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inauguration of the
Why Bihar’s Hospitals Remain Half-Built Promises Read More »
As the shepherds struggle against nature, another silent challenge is the rise of synthetic and adulterated wool. Imported low-cost fibres such as acrylic and polyester now flood local markets and are sold under the label of “Kashmiri wool.” This industrial imitation has eroded demand for locally produced wool. These synthetic alternatives, being cheaper and easier
Whispers of Wool: The Untold Story of Sheep Farmers in Kashmir Read More »
ROLLED UP SNACKY DELIGHTS Cocktail bites are a concept from several cuisines, including Italian cooking. Preparing snack bites using their rice preparation called risotto, made with the classic Arborio rice, has been a favourite of many of us around the globe by now, and somehow it is one of those snacks which can suit the
Electric vehicles (EVs) represent a pivotal shift in the automotive industry, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. However, a comprehensive life-cycle assessment (LCA) reveals that while EVs deliver significant environmental benefits, they also pose substantial upstream and downstream challenges. India’s electric-mobility moment has arrived. At the recently held CII Delhi
The Hidden Carbon Cost of Electric Vehicles: A Life-Cycle Look at India’s EV Revolution Read More »
Over the past two decades, Bihar has witnessed rapid growth in urbanization, mostly centred in and around the capital. Large tracts of low-lying land and “jalla” (wetlands) have been converted into residential and commercial areas, while “bagh” zones (orchards) have been urbanized. This transformation has led to the loss of the natural drainage system, worsening
Vanishing Wetlands of Bihar: How Patna’s Urban Growth Is Choking the Ganga Floodplain Read More »
To the people of Kashmir, the Hangul was not just a species — it was the spirit of the forest, the silent rhythm of nature’s harmony. Yet today, that call grows rare. The decline of the Hangul is both an ecological and emotional tragedy. Once a living emblem of the valley’s abundance, the species now
Saving the Hangul: Restoring the Pride of Kashmir’s Vanishing Monarch Read More »
Doctrine of Self-Reliance is the unifying theory of Xi Jinping’s rule that has systematically and deliberately forged a techno-nationalist China. By elevating Science, technology, and innovation from an economic tool to the primary determinant of national security and identity, Xi has set his nation on an irreversible course. By authoring the global rules for 5G,
The Doctrine of Self-Reliance: How Xi Jinping is Engineering a Techno-Nationalist China Read More »
Apart from the poor economic condition, their social mobility is also an issue. Waste picking carries heavy caste and class stigma. Many waste pickers belong to marginalized communities and face daily verbal abuse. Their children are bullied in schools, reinforcing exclusion and a sense of inferiority. In the Ramchak Bairiya dumping yard on the outskirts
The Forgotten Custodians of Cleanliness: The Harsh Reality of Bihar’s Waste Pickers Read More »
Bihar’s sporting revolution is more than new stadiums and glossy inaugurations; it is an effort to reconfigure the state’s economy where sport becomes an engine of travel, investment, and local entrepreneurship. Rajgir has just cut the ribbon on Bihar’s first world-class international cricket stadium — a 45,000-seat arena with gleaming pavilions and Olympic-grade facilities. But
How Bihar Is Turning Sports Into a Tourism Powerhouse Read More »
As India contemplates future nominations from its provisional list, the implications are evident: UNESCO recognition confers international prestige and the potential to draw tourists, yet it also imposes intricate legal obligations that constrain policy autonomy for future generations. When India celebrated the addition of the Maratha Military Landscapes to its list of UNESCO World Heritage
Heritage Sovereignty: The Legal Labyrinth India Navigates for UNESCO Glory Read More »
When commodities like paints and sweets are glorified as replacements for the joy of children visiting their parents, the very essence of Diwali as an occasion of family get-together is diminished. Emotions get marketized. Employees’ commitment towards their employers during Diwali, at the cost of their families, is now being normalized. Where are the ads
The CAG audit and media reports found that hundreds of crores had been spent or marked as ‘completed,’ yet many embankment structures remained incomplete, poorly built, and offered little actual flood protection. Despite frequent claims by Bihar’s leaders that international rivers and inadequate central support are to blame, residents view this as a convenient deflection,
Crores Spent, Villages Submerged: The Untold Story of Bihar’s Broken Flood Promises Read More »
Over 70% of rural households have suffered losses due to wild animals. Leopards and Himalayan black bears account for most livestock attacks, while monkeys, porcupines, and wild boars ravage crops such as maize, apples, and vegetables. The damage is deep and personal. Crop losses at times reach 30% of annual yield, forcing families to abandon
Hibernation has been an important part of the life cycle of the Asiatic black bears in the Dachigam National Park. With the arrival of winter, these bears would retreat to their shelters and remain inactive for several months. However, the situation is different now. The ecosystem’s apex predator remains active throughout winter. Such a change
The Wangchuk case necessitates a revisit to preventive detention in contemporary India. While instances of genuine national threats may occasionally trigger the usage of extraordinary measures, the routine invocation of special laws like the NSA, even in situations manageable under ordinary criminal laws, erodes civil liberties without corresponding security gains. The recent arrest of the
In today’s context, the idea of Karambhumi assumes renewed importance. Globalization, migration, and digitization have blurred the boundaries of geographical workplaces. For the Needonomics School of Thought workplace—whether rural or urban, physical or digital—is a Karambhumi where ethical action can be cultivated. Needonomics School of Thought (NST) emphasizes that Karambhumi—the land of action, or one’s workplace—is the most significant dimension
India’s domestic medical device industry remains highly fragmented, with most firms operating on a small or medium scale and lacking the infrastructure and capital needed to compete globally. Unlike China, India does not provide super deductions for Research and Development, limiting incentives for innovation. While the sector is poised for transformation, the shift from import
While India recognizes the limitations of BRICS, and ties with the US remain important despite recent setbacks, it is likely to adopt an independent approach vis-à-vis BRICS. It is also important to understand that while the BRICS+ organisation has immense potential, there are several complexities that need to be understood. Developments within BRICS+ highlight its
Emission testing fraud isn’t just an environmental crime — it’s a betrayal of public trust. Across India’s cities, centres have been caught handing out certificates prepared in advance, faking tests by merely attaching nozzle pipes, and rigging results to let toxic vehicles stay on the road. Air pollution is choking our cities, and vehicles are
The judgment improves predictability for rural livelihoods and encourages sustainable planning. The order goes beyond addressing individual encroachments. It attempts to bridge legal gaps while also setting out broader policy implications for forest governance. But with nearly 88,400 environment-related cases still pending across Indian courts, the challenge of judicial backlog remains pressing. On August 25,
Education in India is not one-size-fits-all. West Bengal, while acknowledging NEP’s vision, chose its own path by introducing the State Education Policy (SEP) 2023. The policy is tailored to West Bengal’s unique framework. While it adopts selected ideas from the NEP, it rejects others and introduces fresh initiatives to suit the state’s context. “Education is
Reimagining Education in West Bengal: A Journey from Tradition to Innovation Read More »
The entry of women into Delhi’s ride-hailing and taxi sector embodies both empowerment and precarity. On one hand, it challenges patriarchal norms and creates new pathways for financial independence, but on the other, the structural inequities continue to limit this empowerment. Gig work in India is marked by deep precarity, and within this, the ride-hailing
Driving Against the Odds: The Socio-Economic Realities of Women Taxi Drivers in Delhi Read More »
By treating alliances as business deals and international norms as disposable, the U.S. risks eroding the very foundation of the global order that has long served its interests. Critics warn this creates a leadership vacuum that rivals like China and Russia are eager to fill, leaving America increasingly isolated and less secure. The first modern
Trump’s America First Doctrine: Rethinking U.S. Alliances, Power, and Global Strategy Read More »
Judgement in Anurag Vijaykumar Goel v. State of Maharashtra provides ‘protection of the spouse’ and ‘prevents misuse of criminal law’.
Trend of failing Government Schools in India is worrisome and calls for serious introspection on various aspects in the interest of masses.
Government Schools in Crisis: Why India’s Public Education System Is Collapsing Read More »
Shifting Immigration Policy Landscape will have an enormous economic impact on several states and the changes would be felt soon.
Beyond the ‘Big 4’: Shifting Trends in Indian Migration and Remittances Read More »
The erosion of geographical literacy among children could endanger the sustainable development of any nation needing constructive thoughts.
The Erosion of Geographical Literacy among Children in India Read More »
The Age of AI offers numerous Challenges and Opportunities for Senior Employees in an era where success depends largely on innovation.
The Age of AI: Challenges and Opportunities for Senior Employees Read More »
Britain’s Immigration Control Initiative aim to check inflow of immigrants, those with qualifications & skills are likely to face no issues.
From London to Dubai: How Immigration Changes Are Redirecting Student Flows Read More »
Diplomatic Hopes and Violent Blows are visible from PM Modi’s visit to Saudi Arab and support from Middle East in strengthening relations.
Diplomatic Hopes and Violent Blows Read More »
This is the fifth in a 5-part weekly essay series – Veiled Valour: The Forgotten Women of Warfare. Mula Gabharu was born into the Ahom Dynasty of Assam, as the daughter of King Supimphaa. She was married to Phrasenmung Borgohain, the chief general of the Ahom army. Legend has it that Mula Gabharu loved Phrasenmung deeply, with a devotion that becomes central to her story and her legacy. Her strength was born from love, her love for her husband, for her motherland, and for the ideals she refused to surrender. Even in heartbreak, she found bravery.
Mula Gabharu: The Woman Who Fought to Avenge Her Love Read More »
The recent American attack on Yemen’s Ras Isa oil pipeline is an act of imperial restructuring. The strike, which the United States has justified as aimed against Houthi’s valuable resources, upends Yemen’s economy, which depends on aid, and feeds a vicious cycle of warfare.
Fuel, Blood and Ashes: The American attack on Ras Isa in Yemen Read More »
As the first woman to sit on the throne of the Delhi Sultanate, Razia Sultan had to claw her way through deeply ingrained misogyny. She was constantly under siege, not from foreign invaders, but from within, by those who couldn’t handle the idea of a woman as a Sultan. The glorious story of a women ruler who challenged norms and misogynistic culture remains quietly buried while grand monuments and roads are proudly named after invaders and corrupt statesmen. It speaks volumes about the India we live in, run by patriarchy, which immortalizes the actions of a king but questions the attire of a queen creating a revolution.
Razia Sultan: The Only Woman Ruler of Delhi Read More »
Rani Abbakka of Ullal- The Admiral Queen was honoured by the Indian Coast Guard naming one of its patrol vessels ICGS Rani Abbakka.
Rani Abbakka of Ullal: The Admiral Queen Who Fought Portuguese Read More »
Queen Tomyris of Massagetae defied the notion that war and conquest were the domain of men. Her legend endures as a symbol of strength.
Queen Tomyris: The Myth, The Legend of Massagetae Read More »
Far from being a simple sectarian battle, the Syrian crisis is a calculated violent reconfiguration of society that is being used as a means of advancing Wahhabist influence and Western imperial project. It is an example of “permanent war” crafted to torment the state and transform them into submissive entities for outside control. The news
Beyond the Politics of Sectarianism: A Look into the Alawite Massacre in Syria Read More »
Political leaders from India were at Davos for economic push and highlight their economic potential and collaborative federalism.
‘Bharat First’ At Davos: Competitive Federalism Within Cooperative Federalism Read More »
Bangabandhu’s legacy seems to be under threat due to the campaign to undermine Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in Bangladesh.
The Palk Bay Conflict calls for sustainable solutions to India-Sri Lankan fishermen dispute at the earliest.
The Palk Bay Conflict: Sustainable Solutions to India-Sri Lanka Fishermen Dispute Read More »
It is tough to make any predictions regarding Trump 2.0. While some commentators believe that his policies will be as disruptionist as in his previous stint, others are of the opinion that he may be transactional but less unpredictable. During the presidential campaign, Trump had said that he would impose tariffs on countries which are trading in non-dollar currencies. It remains to be seen if he goes ahead with such measures given that several countries with close links to the US, including India, have been favouring de-dollarisation. It also remains to be seen how Trump 2.0 would perceive the Chabahar project given the current turmoil in the Middle East.
The overall perspective on the Indian education system calls for introspecting on how well the teachers of today are mentoring the young generations. Given the teachers being put on the job of handling classes immediately after recruitment without appropriate pedagogical training, the weaknesses in their pedagogical practices remain predominant. The concept of ‘temporary teachers’ does not permit the institutions for systemic long-term improvements in teaching quality, thus, being detrimental to student development. The rush to figure out well in the accreditation and ranking frameworks is pushing teaching to the backseat. Teacher assessment tools ought to be remodelled to prioritize teaching over research for overcoming these challenges and making classroom teaching a high priority on the agenda of teachers. Student participation in the assessment of the educational deliveries from any institution is needed for prioritizing teaching activities over other aspects.
Indian Teachers in Chakravyuh: Guru, Researcher or Contractual Worker? Read More »
The humanitarian crises unfolding in West Asia and Eastern Europe, along with the inability of the international community to enforce peace in these regions can be captured in a larger phenomenon engulfing the world today – ‘Netanyahuism’. Netanyahu’s approach of ‘eye for an eye’ has become popular all throughout the world. The taboo against the use of instrumentality of military actions to achieve foreign policy objectives is declining. The international community must show moral courage and start calling out the militaristic approach of both Iran and Israel. Solutions need to be found on the diplomatic table, not on the battlefield.
Netanyahuism: The Zeitgeist of Our Times? Read More »
The Arab world has been witnessing exacerbating conflicts and spillovers in the region. Home to the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, Bahrain is the only Arab state to be part of the U.S. Naval Armada, Operation Prosperity Guardian. Both Iran and Saudi have been careful to not directly hit at each other since the restoration of their diplomatic ties. With this picture in mind, Saudi also would not want to harm the Iranian-backed Houthis. Like the Saudis, the Emiratis want to secure the Red Sea but do not want to be viewed as supporting Israel instead of solidarity with Palestine. With the nightmares of the previous Arab-Israeli wars still very much etched in the soil, the states have been trying to not escalate the tensions while trying to grapple for a balanced approach whilst also being steadfast in their solitude with Palestine.
Operation Prosperity Guardian: West Asia in Splits Read More »
Reports indicate that the exam failures are eventually leading to a crisis in Indian Education system and there is a need of standardization.
The Broken Ladder: Exam Failures and the Crisis in Indian Education Read More »
Understanding Leadership Styles and Challenges in Higher Education Governance The Vice-Chancellor is the head of a university and plays a crucial role in shaping its future. As the university is a center of education, the main function of the Vice-Chancellor is to promote education. The Vice-Chancellor works to improve the quality of the university’s courses
The Multifaceted Role of Vice Chancellors in Indian Universities Read More »
There is a rise of populism worldwide while tactical compromises on certain policy issues may draw flak they become inevitable.
Left-Right-Centre: 2024 is Swinging the World Read More »
India has recently signed a 10-year landmark deal with Iran to take over the Chabahar Port Operations, risking US economic sanctions.
Revelations of ILO’s India Employment Report 2024 are raising alarms for improvement after navigating India’s employment landscape .
ILO Report & the Achilles’ Heels of India’s Employment Landscape Read More »
Bond Disclosure Sparks Debate on the common thread that holds together all seemingly disparate events which is the omnipresent ‘corruption’.
Breaking silence on silent sufferings leading to suicides must become a matter of public discussion because only that solution is sustainable.
Breaking Silence on Silent Sufferings Read More »
The Sabudana Trivia for incorporating it into your cooking repertoire to add a touch of Indian flavour and wholesome goodness to your meals.
THE SABUDANA TRIVIA Read More »
The evolving landscape of AI, web data scraping, and copyright integration has a series of legal and ethical considerations.
Without careful oversight and mitigation strategies, AI applications in the judiciary could inadvertently perpetuate biases, affecting the fairness and impartiality of legal outcomes. Ensuring that AI systems are used as a tool rather than a definitive authority is crucial to maintaining the balance between efficiency and the human judgment essential to justice.
Navigating the Complex Terrain of AI in India’s Judicial System: A Pragmatic Inquiry Read More »
In March 2023, Riyadh entered the China-led Shanghai Cooperation Organization as a dialogue partner. Saudi Arabia had also signed a Beijing-mediated agreement with Iran to resume diplomatic ties. The Gulf nation has played an important part along with Russia in the OPEC+ cuts in oil production much to the displeasure of Washington DC. Yet, in recent days, Saudi Arabia has been pushing for getting a defence pact with the US ratified before the US election of 2024.
Riyadh’s ‘Active Neutrality’ at Play: SCO, OPEC+ and Proposed Defence Deal with USA Read More »
Despite budget constraints, Indian universities like Jadavpur, Jamia Millia Islamia, and Aligarh Muslim University thrive, attributing their success to Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB). OCB, defined as discretionary actions benefiting the organization, extends from academic staff to students, fostering positive change within higher education institutions. The unsung heroes embody dedication, commitment, and selfless actions, impacting holistic development despite the challenges.
Beyond Books and Bells: Organizational Citizenship Behavior in Higher Education Read More »
The existing challenges paint a complex picture of India’s higher education ecosystem. Addressing them requires a multi-pronged approach, including increased funding, focus on equity and inclusion, curriculum reforms, investment in research and technology, and effective governance reforms. The concept of higher education as an ecosystem is a relatively new one. But in present times, it
Mapping The Higher Education Ecosystem Of India Read More »
The timing of China accepting the credentials of the Afghan ambassador, appointed by the Taliban, also comes at a time when ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan have witnessed a significant deterioration.
Blossoming China-Afghanistan Ties, Deepening Faultlines in Af-Pak Read More »
National issues and leadership cannot be relegated totally to the sidelines in assembly elections, even though it is not possible to win state elections without strong regional leaders. What is clear from the election results of the MP, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Telangana is that welfare schemes, which often draw strong criticism from certain commentators, strike a chord with the voter. All political outfits have also begun to focus on welfare schemes specifically targeted at women.
A recent poll by The New York Times and Siena College found former President Donald Trump leading over President Joe Biden in five key swing states for a potential 2024 presidential election match-up. The poll suggests Biden is losing support among young and black voters, and despite improvements in economic indicators, voters appear pessimistic about the US economy. Trump’s potential win could have significant implications for the ongoing geopolitical conflicts in Russia-Ukraine and the Middle East.
Biden Vs Trump 2024: The Geopolitics of Russia-Ukraine & Israel-Hamas in USA’s Politics Read More »
The retirement age of Indian college and university teachers should be uniformly set at 65 to ensure equal opportunities and rights. Knowledge, skills, and experience are vital prerequisites for educators, these only develop over time. Though the increase in retirement age may pose hiring challenges, the resulting longer tenure of experienced educators would greatly enhance the quality of education, fostering more effective teaching and higher quality of research. Having a uniform retirement age would also address the potential decline of experienced teachers by 2027.
Uniform Retirement Age of Teachers: A Panacea for Higher Education Read More »
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) are now encircling Gaza treating Hamas as a target. This escalating conflict ignited anti-American sentiment in the Muslim world, with global opinion turning against Israel. A month of heavy bombardment killed over 10,000 people, including 4,104 children, leading to international calls for a ceasefire. WHO, U.N. agencies, and international charities express concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
In response to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, the United Nations General Assembly has called for an immediate ceasefire. The warfare has resulted in significant casualties and prompts international concerns about an impending humanitarian catastrophe. Despite global pressure, Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, remains resolute to continue ground operations. Simultaneously, diplomats are considering possible administration changes in Gaza post-conflict. The international community continues to advocate for a two-state solution, emphasizing the significance of justice, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence.
Israel-Hamas War: No Endgame Amid International Pressure Read More »
Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, urges Israel to respect international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and ensure Chinese interests in Israel. Amid tensions following Hamas’s multi-pronged attack, China criticizes the killing of civilians but avoids condemning Hamas. As the conflict escalates, upcoming meetings between Wang Yi and US Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, could present opportunities for dialogue. Despite increasing aggression from Iran, China’s influence in the Middle East could potentially help mitigate the situation.
The Chinese Potential: Close Ties with Tehran, Dialing Down Israel-Palestine Tensions Read More »
Israel-Hamas conflict has been marred by Diplomatic Maneuvers by world powers including USA, Russia, China, Iran, EU in previous fortnight. The article analyses the updates on the conflict as on October 23, 2023
The Battle Royal: Israel-Hamas in a Jungle of Diplomatic Maneuvers Read More »
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine marked a significant turn, with a surprise attack on Israel marking the fiftieth anniversary of the Arab-Israeli war. The violence, which has been consistent since post-WWII, escalated as Hamas launched over five thousand rockets at Israel. Despite international efforts, including the Cairo Summit for Peace, a resolution seems elusive. Accusations of Israeli occupation of Palestinian lands and retaliatory violence add tension, while powerful countries attempt to exert influence and propose solutions.
Israel-Palestine Conflict Dynamics in West Asia Read More »
Climate change’s severity in India is escalating, driven largely by the country’s dependence on coal-based power plants. Recognizing this, the government aims to satisfy 50% of energy needs through renewable sources by 2030 and has taken steps to limit pollution with clean coal technologies. However, the transition from coal presents challenges, including fluctuating costs of natural gas and the reliability of renewable energy. Implementing new technologies and shifting towards renewables requires strong local institutions, community involvement, and private sector participation.
The shifting global power equation combined with increasing advocacy for regional peace through a sovereign Palestinian state necessitates that the US rethink its global strategy. Tensions in Gaza are escalating, potentially leading to a large-scale conflict as Israel plans a comprehensive offensive against Hamas. Amidst growing fears of war and a worsening humanitarian crisis, there’s a pressing need for negotiating peace and ensuring timely humanitarian aid in the region.
Israel-Hamas War: Gaza Hospital Attack, Biden’s Visit, Iran-USA Powerplay Read More »
The world is being reordered. There is a complex interplay of global forces like climate change and human forces like power play and populism
A Reordered World: The Dance of Global Forces on the Stage of Human Forces Read More »
The post-COVID classrooms are being marred by distracted students owing to the disruptive role played by ed-tech & declining interactions.
Indian-French interests in Transcaucasia are positioning themselves as one of the main guarantors of compliance with the UN principles.
India-France In Transcaucasia- A Part Of The Problem Or A Solution Read More »
Non-performing assets of the banks require attention to the recovery of their dues to examine the changes in GNPAs of banks.
Performance of Non-Performing Assets In Indian Banks Read More »
Shoigu’s visit to the DPRK amid the ongoing conflict with Ukraine offers an opportunity for fast resolution of Korean Peninsula nuclear issue.
Shoigu’s Visit to North Korea: Russia’s Asian Rebalance Read More »
PM Modi’s visit to France has helped in strengthening and extending the Indo-French Defence Cooperation through strategic cooperation.
Horizon 2047: Celebrating 25 Years Of The India-France Strategic Partnership Read More »
There is a lot of buzz around ChatGPT, a language model software capable of responding to queries with human-like intelligence. However, AI poses the threat of the diminishing use of human cognitive skills. The absence of ample thinking before writing and the sheer utilization of AI tools for generating reports and documents may make one devoid of skill and imagination to create new things. Spoon-feeding by artificially intelligent systems is enfeebling metacognition and promotes a lackadaisical attitude in students in the education process. Analyzing, report writing, etc. is likely to get reshaped with the evolving AI chatbots based on disruptive technology that redefines the ontology and epistemology of teaching, learning, examination, and research. There is a thin line between someone requiring support and someone becoming parasitic to the support. The likelihood of loss of ingenuity, and diminishing cognitive skills need to be investigated thoroughly at every activity level.
AI Chatbots May Devitalize Ingenuity: Arrival of New Disruptors in Education Read More »
There are many influential “groups of dissatisfied” against the policy of the Ukrainian President and his team among the officers of the Ukrainian army. However, it is already visible to the naked eye the contours of a formidable military opposition which the head of state may encounter in the near future.
Ukraine: Military Opposition Building Up Against Prez Zelenskyy Read More »
The paucity of an essential invisible – clean drinking water – is threatening the very existence of homo sapiens. India finds itself at the 120th rank among 122 countries in the Water Quality Index. Three-fourths of rural households find it difficult to get drinking water in India. In large tracts of remote and arid regions of India having high solar irradiance, especially the Thar Desert, Solar Thermal Desalination technology can play a crucial role in fulfilling the needs of the local communities. Strong local institutions and community participation would become the key to their success. The government must encourage private players to provide technological solutions to tackle the water crisis while ensuring that the accessibility of clean drinking water remains a basic and universal right, instead of becoming a paid service.
Clean Drinking Water: A Necessity Increasingly Difficult to Fulfill Read More »
In recent weeks, tensions between Beijing and Washington seem to have escalated after the incident of an ‘alleged’ Chinese spy balloon being spotted in US airspace. The Biden Administration may not want ties with China to deteriorate further and it may also seek to find common ground on important global issues. It is likely however to continue with its tough economic stance vis-à-vis China in the run-up to the 2024 US presidential election. The important factors which will influence the trajectory of the Washington-Beijing relationship are the course of the Russia-Ukraine war and China’s stance on the same as well as China’s approach towards Taiwan.
Ukraine Conflict, ‘Spy Balloon’ and Evolving US-China Relationship Read More »
Statistics show that cyberattacks occur every 39 seconds. The total damage caused by cyber-attacks amounted to $6 trillion in 2022. Growing adaptation to smartphones is heightening security vulnerabilities. Ransomware as a service (RaaS) is evolving as a business model. The formal education system must trigger well-crafted education programmes for rolling out a cyber defence army that understands the creativity behind cyber attacks and can protect society at large. Galloping advances in the cyber world push not just for cyber hygiene to become part of formal education at the school level, but also for the ineluctable rigorous campaigns to update every individual to remain cyber safe.
Darkness of Cyber Attacks Requires the Light of Cyber Security Education Read More »
Sri Lanka and Pakistan are dealing with serious economic crises. Apart from serious domestic issues like shortage of essential commodities, and power cuts, both countries have meagre foreign exchange reserves. The excessive dependence on China is the main reason for the increasing debt trap. Both countries also had to seek International Monetary Fund (IMF) assistance despite domestic opposition against the conditionalities imposed by the IMF. It is important for South Asian countries to work towards more robust economic linkages within the region and to shed dependence upon external assistance.
Vicious Cycle of Economic Slowdown in South Asia Read More »
Limiting the number of students from India or changing rules pertaining to the graduate post-study work visa will make the United Kingdom a less attractive destination for higher education for Indian students. The UK needs to understand that Indian students contribute significantly to the UK economy, not just in the form of tuition fees, but also through their talent and skills.
Protectionist UK Restricting Indian Students May Backfire Read More »
Hosting the FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup 2023, Odisha is the first state in India to host the event for the second time in a row. This is an important feat and highlights the fact that Odisha — along with Punjab — has emerged as a key nursery for Indian hockey. Odisha’s focus on sports, especially hockey, also shows that every state should create its own template for economic prosperity and give a boost to tourism. Its success in hockey, where all stakeholders have worked in harmony, is important not just from the dimension of sports but also economy and para-diplomacy. Other states should seek to emulate its success!
Odisha: A Guiding Light for Sports Tourism and Paradiplomacy Read More »
The UGC, coming up with a regulation to allow foreign universities to set up their off-shore campuses in India, has had academics at sixes and sevens and divided. While one stratum welcomes the move saying it would increase job prospects, foreign collaborations, and the research environment in the country, the other believes it will sound the death knell for the home universities. It is strongly felt that Ivy League universities and colleges are unlikely to apply for setting up their campuses in India. India must desist from the temptation of attracting substandard universities that would dupe Indian people out of their money in the name of dazzling foreign degrees.
The Curious Case of Foreign Universities: UGC Draft Read More »
North-East Festival is a festival that celebrates the beauty, diversity, and integrity of North-East India. The USP of this festival is the way in which we seamlessly integrate elements of social cohesion, cultural heritage, and economic welfare, making them an immersive experience for all. This also seeks to give a fillip to ties between North Eastern India and the increasingly important ASEAN region. The festival is important for a number of reasons. First, it highlights aspects of the region’s culture and economy that residents in other parts of India are not familiar with. Second, it can give a boost to tourism in the region. Third, it can open up new horizons for entrepreneurs from North Eastern India, and the rest of the country.
North-East Festival: A Roadmap To Domestic And Global Ties Read More »
Although the new UGC regulations for research appear to change the face of higher education in India and encourage institutions to compete with world-class universities across the globe, their implementation is bound to be shoddy without proper reflection and spade work. A critical rethinking on the part of the policymakers is the need of the day for improving the quality of PhDs in the country. Simple cosmetic changes and juggling around with existing structures cannot bring any positive reform in the quality of higher education, especially research in the country.
Academia Wary of New UGC Regulations for PhD Read More »
With the establishment of the Indo-Pacific concept, the relationship between India and China has taken a drastic turn in their bilateral and multilateral engagement causing constrain in their ties. In such regard, no longer the Indo-China ties could be viewed from a narrow perspective as it has evolved and rather should be viewed from the great power politics. Although, the ambition of China is clearly visible of acquiring more power and enhancing its stature and position in global politics and power vis-à-vis India which has kept a balanced and friendly approach to secure its national and strategic interest ensuring its rise doesn’t alarm others.
Indo-China Great Power Competition in the Indo-Pacific: An Essay Read More »
While the Malaysian economy has been adversely impacted as a result of political instability, the Indonesian economy has benefited immensely from political stability. Also, Malaysia has been lagging behind Indonesia in terms of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). But still Malaysia continues to be one of the most attractive investment destinations in ASEAN.
The Growth Story Of ASEAN Powers: Indonesia and Malaysia Read More »
Geopolitical issues have affected the people-to-people links and higher education adversely. While the UK, like other developed countries in the West, is keen to attract talented professionals as well as students who could contribute positively towards its economy, it is mooting the idea of restricting the inflow of international students who get admitted into ‘low-quality degrees’, and also bring in their dependents through the student visa route. On the other hand, Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy makes a clear reference to strengthening people-to-people contact with different parts of Asia and seeks to enhance Canada’s international student program with permanent residence and job opportunities for students from the Indo-Pacific.
The New Geopolitics Of Global Education Read More »
A new philosophy of labour economics is flourishing because of gig recruiters who only target their requirements irrespective of whether the doers have any formal educational certificates or not and the worthiness of gig workers decides their hiring. The sole reliance on the expertise of individuals to perform the respective jobs is likely to delink the educational attainments with the jobs which in turn will also decouple the educational attainments from the pay levels. It is imperative for the education system to engrain the students with comprehensive abilities to adapt, and learn-unlearn-learn in the self-initiated mode for remaining relevant and fetch higher incomes for themselves in the changed economic spectrum. The ensuing independence of educational attainments from jobs and income may push children out of the formal education system for immediate jobs and higher incomes, which may have its implications on the overall capacity building of human resources for sustainability.
Gig Economy: The New Disruptor of Education, Jobs & Social Security Read More »
The ongoing FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar once again highlights the importance of sports in foreign relations. Sports, over the years, have helped unite nation-states with opposing ideologies. Diplomacy through sports harnesses soft power in geopolitics. Major sporting events like the Dynamo Moscow Football Tour after WWII stands as a testament to two rival countries coming together to settle their indifferences through the means of sport. The ping-pong game between China and the US helped end two decades of animosity between Sino-US relations. In recent years, sports diplomacy has been used to promote legitimate means of peace and development infrastructure in countries while hosting major sporting events. A country with a strategy of sports diplomacy will benefit in economic development and will leave a positive impact.
A Rundown of Sports Diplomacy Read More »
It is true that the US needs to strike a balance between domestic priorities and its global commitments, but it cannot have meaningful engagement with the rest of the world, including ASEAN, if it is insular on economic issues. In other words, the US needs to realize that both ‘America First’ and globalisation – with some checks – can co-exist.
America is Back – Or is it? Read More »
India’s Growing Demand For Exotic Pets is bad news for all and surest way to curb it would be to let this demand die down.
India’s Growing Demand For Exotic Pets Is Bad News For All Read More »
Two Gulf countries – Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates (UAE) – have re-oriented their external relations significantly in recent years. The improvement in ties between both these Gulf countries, especially UAE, and Israel is a strong reiteration of the same. UAE along with Bahrain, Morocco and Sudan normalised ties with Israel via the Abraham accords signed in 2020. Even at a global level, not just the Middle East, both Saudi Arabia and UAE are trying to re-position their foreign policy. One important change has been the strengthening of UAE-China and Saudi Arabia-China relations, much to the discomfort of the US.
Saudi Arabia and UAE: Playing the Balancing Act Read More »
Apple growers in Kashmir Valley are on the roads to express their simmering anger due to price crashes and infrastructural bottlenecks. Out of 2.1- 2.9 million tons of apples grown in India annually, around 75 percent comes from the Kashmir valley. In order to enhance the income of apple growers, there is a need to address the infrastructural bottlenecks, technical upgradation of capabilities of horticultural staff, improvement in market intelligence system, branding and government need to regulate the pesticides. Further, there is also a need for reducing the layers in the supply chain by necessary ICT intervention. The government needs to explore Cooperative farming, strengthen farmer-produce organizations and incentivize the establishment of fruit processing units.
Making Sense of Falling Apples Prices in Jammu and Kashmir Read More »
The Congress may lose another opportunity as Dr. Tharoor stares at an impending defeat and can’t confront BJP on multiple issues like this.
Congress May Lose Another Opportunity As Shashi Tharoor Stares At Impending Defeat Read More »
