Hinduism or Sanatan Dharma, the eternal religion was first shaped into an organised from on banks of Sapta Sindhu in Northwestern part of Bharat. From there became widespread in North India with evolution of the Dharma happening in Gangetic plain. The area of Hindu influence in North India eventually came to be known as Aryavarta. It was filled with the 4 varnas doing their Swadharma and leading a satisfying life.
When time passed Aryavarta expanded into Bharatvarsh extending from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. Many Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Shudras expanded from Aryavarta region to many other parts of India.
One clan of such Kshatriyas known as the valiant Nāgās in many Hindu texts, migrated towards Southern India from Ahicchatra or Ahikshetra in North. On the basis of studying contemporary texts of Greek travellers of early centuries AD, it seems that those Nagas first went a little southwest from Ahikshetra and reached the land situated beneath Aravalli range (mentioned as Capitallis range by Periplus).
From the area beneath Aravallis, they traversed further down to a place in Karnataka, which later came to be known as Nagarkhanda or Nayarkhanda, some of these Nagas even managed to establish a dynasty there known as the Sendraka dynasty. While others served as their warriors. Tulu Gramapaddhati inscriptions mentions the migration of these warrior Nagas from North. The remaining Nagas embarked on their journey further South and diverted to two regions. In Coastal Karnataka They migrated, assimilated and became known as Bunts. While in Kerala they came to be known as Nairs / Nayars.
The contribution of Nairs in protecting Hinduism and helping it expand in Kerala, has been huge. The Nair rajas (kings) of Kerala like the Zamorin of Calicut (Samoothiri of Nediyiruppu Swaroopam) built and patronized many temples. They were the main sponsors of many Vedic Shrauta rituals like Athiratram. Many of them even wrote treatises in Sanskrit and one even created an artform known as Krishnattam based on life of Sri Krishna.
However the main contributions were martial ones, the Hindu Nairs who were Vratya Kshatriyas had always kept the influence of Islam in check. Throughout history you can see from various sources that whenever Mappilas exceed the limits of incivility Nairs gave them a befitting reply via the way of the sword .
Nairs also kept in check , the intrusions by foreign powers. The famous Siege of Chaliyam done under Zamorin of Calicut broke the Portugese power in Kerala, the Battle of Colachel by Travancore King Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma broke the backbone of Dutch VOC in India. And who can forget the famous battle of Nedumkotta, whenever Tipu Sultan and his Mysorean Islamic forces were defeated by commander Vaikom Padmanabha Pillai and king Dharmaraja Karthika Thirunal Rama Varma.
Although the power of Nairs greatly reduced after British outlawed arms and practice of Kalaripayattu in Malabar, they still resisted the white imperialists. Pazhassi Raja’s guerilla warfare against the British, which was the longest armed struggle against them in history, stands as a testimony to this martial spirit of Nairs and the love for their Hindu beliefs and motherland.
I conclude this article with an ancient Malayalam verse “Ariyathe Pormidame Kureyathe Nayarpathi” which means “the Nair commander does not weaken even in the unknown battlefield”. I urge the Hindu Nairs of modern day to not weaken themselves in the uncertian political environment of Kerala and instead rise up in memory of your ancestors and uphold your martial spirit and love for your motherland. Jai Hind Hai Keralam!
Comparing leaders from different eras and contexts can be challenging, as they operate in different political landscapes and face unique circumstances. However, here are some points of comparison between two prominent Indian leaders, Indira Gandhi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi:
Leadership Style: Both Indira Gandhi and PM Modi have distinctive leadership styles. Indira Gandhi was known for her strong and assertive leadership, often described as authoritarian. She exercised a significant level of control over decision-making within her party and the government. On the other hand, PM Modi is known for his charismatic and dynamic leadership style, emphasizing communication, public engagement, and grassroots mobilization.
Economic Policies: Indira Gandhi’s economic policies focused on nationalization and state intervention in various sectors of the economy. She implemented the bank nationalization and abolished the privy purses of erstwhile princes. In contrast, PM Modi has pursued economic liberalization and reforms, aiming to enhance foreign investment, promote entrepreneurship, and improve ease of doing business. He has emphasized initiatives such as “Make in India” and introduced the Goods and Services Tax (GST).
Foreign Policy: Both leaders have made significant contributions to India’s foreign policy. Indira Gandhi played a pivotal role in the non-aligned movement and championed India’s voice on global platforms. She also led India during the Bangladesh Liberation War. PM Modi has prioritized strengthening India’s ties with various nations, engaging in active diplomacy, and promoting India as a global power. He has sought to enhance economic and strategic partnerships through initiatives like “Act East” and “Neighborhood First.”
Social and Political Impact: Indira Gandhi’s leadership was marked by the declaration of the Emergency in 1975, which suspended civil liberties and led to significant criticism. However, she is also remembered for her role in shaping policies such as bank nationalization, promoting social justice, and empowering marginalized communities. PM Modi’s tenure has seen initiatives such as Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission), the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (financial inclusion program), and the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme. His leadership has been associated with a focus on infrastructure development, economic growth, and digital transformation.
Popularity and Political Support: Both leaders have enjoyed significant political support at different times. Indira Gandhi had a strong base within her party, the Indian National Congress, and was seen as a formidable political figure. PM Modi, too, has garnered considerable popularity, with his party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), securing substantial electoral victories. He has been able to maintain a broad voter base through his appeal to the masses and his ability to connect with various segments of society.
It’s important to note that this comparison provides a broad overview and may not encompass all aspects of their leadership. Additionally, assessments of leaders can vary based on individual perspectives and political leanings.
When in 1492 CE the newly powerful Catholic kings of Counter-Reformation in Spain defeated Muhammad XI (or Boabdil to the Spanish) the last Moorish Muslim Sultan of the Iberian Peninsula, the eight hundred years old Islamic rule and influence in Spain and Portugal came to an end.
In 711 CE, Muslim forces of Umayyad Caliphate invaded Spain from North Africa and in eight years conquered the Iberian Peninsula comprising present-day Spain and Portugal. It became one of the great Muslim civilisations; reaching its summit with the independent Umayyad caliphateof Cordova in the tenth century. Muslim rule declined after that and ended in 1492 when Granada was lost to Christian Catholic Force mentioned above.
In the case of India, the first Muslim invasion occurred in 712 CE when Umayyad General Muhammad bin Qasim conquered Sindh by defeating and killing Hindu Brahmin King Dahir in the Battle of Aror on the bank of river Indus. The Arab-occupied Sind and adjacent Punjab remained so for next three centuries, as all further Arab intrusions were repelled by local Hindu Kings.
Then between 1001 and 1027 CE there were seventeen devastating attacks by Turkic Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni (Afghanistan) on the Northern Indian sub-continent. However, each time, he went back to Afghanistan with his pillage and tens of thousands of Hindu slaves from India. Those were the days of Dukhtar-e Hindustan Nilam-e Do Dinar.
After two hundred years of Ghazni, another Afghan Turkic Sultan Muhammad Ghori attacked India seventeen times but was defeated each time by the local Hindu kings led by Prithvi Raj Chauhan until in 1192 CE when Ghori defeated and killed Prithvi Raj in the second battle of Tarain. Muhammad Ghori was the first Muslim Sultan to initiate Muslim rule in India which got formalized in the form of Delhi Sultanate under his Slave General Qutub Uddin Aibek in 1206 CE.
Though both Spain and India experienced their first Muslim invasion in the same time in 711 CE and 712 CE respectively, Muslims could run over and capture almost the whole of Iberian Peninsula in the next eight years. But in the case of India, Muslims faced stiff resistance from local Hindu Kings for the next five hundred years before they could establish a small Delhi-centric Sultanate only as late as in 1206 CE.
The Umayyad dynasty ruled Spain from 711 CE to 1031 CE. By 719 CE, the extent of Islamic Spain under Umayyad Caliphate became greatest, covering the whole of Iberian Peninsula except a small northern strip. This Islamic empire was known as Al Andalus. After 1031 CE, multiple North African Muslim moors ruled the ever-shrinking size of Islamic Spain. In 1238 CE, an Arab dynasty (Nasrid) took over Granada, the remaining small southern Spanish Islamic kingdom. It was the last frontier of Islam that fell to Christian Reconquista in 1492 CE.
In 1492 CE when Spain was cleared of Muslim rule and influence, the Lodhi dynasty of Delhi Sultanate was ruling a large part of the North, East and West Indian sub-continent. Delhi Sultanate succumbed to Mughal onslaught led by Babur, another Muslim warrior, from Afghanistan in 1526 CE. Mughals ruled a large part of Indian sub-continent officially up to 1857 CE, but after the death of Aurangzeb in 1707 CE, it started crumbling down fast. For all practical purposes, India was under a central Muslim rule for 500 years from 1206 CE to 1707 CE.
After the death of Aurangzeb in 1707 CE, Maratha, Sikh, Sultanat-e-Khudadad (Mysore), Nizam and a few more local rulers ruled major parts of India during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. With the British winning in Plassey during 1757, hundreds of big and small principalities grew up in different parts of India at the behest of the British. At last, the British took over the control of the whole of India formally in 1857 CE.
The Christians were no idle onlookers of Islamic conquest of their countries in Iberian Peninsula from the beginning. While rejuvenated Roman Catholic Christians started a sustained Crusade (Christian Holy War) against Islamic occupiers of Spain within a decade of Umayyad conquest of Spain, it took them about 800 years to drive out the last moor from the soil of Spain (The Moor’s Last Sigh).
During Muslim rule in India an estimated 80 million of Hindus were killed, millions were converted and tens of thousands were enslaved and sent to Afghanistan and other Central Asian slave markets. But, unlike Spain, Hindus in India never had any concept of driving out Muslims from India. Hindu concept of Dharma-Yudh, which is somewhat like Crusade, is very local in nature and extent. Once won, it does not push the defeated enemy to extinction or expulsion.
After the Reconquista, Christians of Spain made Christianity its state religion and erased Islam from state administration, policies and social dynamics. The converted local Muslims were all reconverted to Christianity. Though Christian Spain did not destroy the Islamic structures, those went into the mental backyard of the people. Unlike India, Christian Spain was never laudatory about its Islamic past.
In the case of India, the destiny took a totally different path. When the British left India in 1947, British India was divided into Hindu-ruled India and Muslim-ruled Pakistan. This dichotomy was the foundational basis of Two Nation Theory. However, ninety percent of Muslims, who fought for Islamic Pakistan but fell on the Indian side, did not migrate to Pakistan and stayed back in India.
Except Dr B R Ambedkar, no other non-Muslim member of the Constituent Assembly of independent India had any understanding about Islam. They did not know that as per Islamic teaching, Muslims have to have only contempt for Hindu Kafir. They also overlooked that in 1945-46 election of British India, Muslims voted en masse for the cause of their community and there was no reason that they would change this community behavior in Independent India. Thus Muslims, as per Islam, have no regard for democracy and secularism. They have been using these two primary attributes of Indian Constitution as cover for peddling Islamism in India since its independence.
While Islam became the state religion of Pakistan (and later of Bangladesh too), India did not have any state religion. Followers of all religions were given equal rights to practice, preach and promote their respective religion. Later in 1976 India was made a confirmed secular country. This contradiction was the root cause of failure of Liaquat-Nehru Pact of 1950. India observed the said Pact in letter and spirit, but Pakistan refused to practice the Pact from the beginning. Hindus were constantly being persecuted and driven out from Pakistan (and later from Bangladesh too) in a sustained manner. On the other hand, Muslim population in India, under the protection of the Congress government, kept on increasing by leaps and bounds.
Reconversion of local converted Muslims to Hinduism was never considered by the government of independent India in its wildest dream. On the contrary, Muslims of India were encouraged to preach, practice and promote Islam freely. Unfortunately, Hindus of Pakistan (and later of Bangladesh also) were treated as Kafir with extremely limited religious freedom and rampant socio-economic discrimination.
Thus, Hindu-majority India, unlike Christian Spain, neither expelled foreign Muslim ruling class from India nor reconverted the local Muslim-converts to Hinduism. It also did not go for complete exchange of Hindu and Muslim populations between Pakistan and India after 1947. It continued to rot in a very peculiar and fraudulent Islamic cobweb of Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb and praise and pride of Islamic history with a delusional secularism.
Historically secularism has been the antithesis of Islam since its origin 1400 years back in the Arabian desert. Thus, Hindu-majority India finds itself in the Islamic trap again after seventy-five years of independence from the British. A big proportion of educated Indian Muslims is peddling Political Islam in India under the protection of its secular Constitution.
Stone pelting, rioting, arson and Sar Tan Se Juda, which are Sunnah of prophet, have become commonplace in India today. Love Jihad, Land Jihad, Population Jihad, Halal Jihad, Mazar Jihad, Namaz Jihad, Azan Jihad, Waqf Jihad and promotion of Islamic symbolism are used as tools to propagate Islamism in India. India has its own chapter of Al Qaeda, ISIS and other Pakistani and Bangladeshi Islamic terrorist organizations. The local militant Islamic organization Popular Front of India (PFI) has declared to make India an Islamic country by 2047 CE.
Had Charles Dickens written this article, he would probably have started with the opening line “It was the best of times for Spain, it is the worst of times for India”.
In the vast tapestry of Hindu philosophy, one concept that stands out prominently is that of Dharma Dhand. Dharma Dhand encompasses the moral and ethical responsibilities that an individual must uphold throughout their life. It encompasses the duties and obligations that govern our actions, relationships, and interactions with the world. This essay explores the significance of Dharma Dhand in Hinduism, its principles, and the relevance it holds in contemporary society.
Meaning of Dharma Dhand: The term “Dharma Dhand” is derived from two Sanskrit words: “Dharma,” meaning righteousness or duty, and “Dhand,” referring to the concept of upholding or maintaining. Together, they symbolize the responsibility to fulfill one’s duties and obligations in a righteous and ethical manner. Dharma Dhand encapsulates the guiding principles that lead individuals to live a life of virtue, integrity, and moral consciousness.
Principles of Dharma Dhand:
Swadharma:
Swadharma emphasizes the duty of an individual to fulfill their personal responsibilities and obligations within their social, familial, and professional roles. It encourages individuals to recognize their unique talents, skills, and positions in society, and to perform their duties to the best of their abilities without seeking personal gain or recognition.
Lokasangraha:
Lokasangraha refers to working for the welfare and upliftment of society. It emphasizes the importance of engaging in selfless acts for the greater good, promoting social harmony, and addressing the needs of the community. It encourages individuals to contribute to society through acts of compassion, charity, and service.
Ahimsa:
Ahimsa, or non-violence, is a fundamental principle of Dharma Dhand. It advocates for abstaining from physical, mental, and emotional harm towards oneself and others. Ahimsa promotes peace, compassion, and empathy, recognizing the interconnectedness of all living beings.
Satya:
Satya, or truthfulness, is another key principle of Dharma Dhand. It emphasizes the importance of honesty, integrity, and sincerity in thoughts, speech, and actions. Satya encourages individuals to live a life of authenticity and to uphold the truth even in challenging circumstances.
Relevance of Dharma Dhand in Contemporary Society: Despite the evolution of Indian society and the challenges of modern life, the principles of Dharma Dhand remain relevant and vital.
In a world grappling with moral dilemmas, social inequalities, and environmental crises, the application of Dharma Dhand can guide individuals and communities towards ethical decision-making and responsible actions.
Dharma Dhand provides a framework for individuals to navigate their personal and professional lives with integrity and purpose. It encourages them to strike a balance between personal aspirations and societal obligations, leading to a harmonious coexistence with others and the environment.
Moreover, the principles of Dharma Dhand offer a pathway towards addressing social issues and fostering inclusive communities. By practicing Lokasangraha, individuals can actively contribute to social justice, uplift marginalized communities, and advocate for sustainable development.
In conclusion, Dharma Dand is an integral part of Hindu philosophy which offers profound wisdom and guidance for ethical living. It provides individuals with a moral compass to navigate life’s complexities while upholding righteousness, truth, and compassion. The principles of Dharma Dhand hold immense value in contemporary society, enabling individuals to lead purposeful lives, promote social harmony, and contribute to the well-being of all beings. By embracing Dharma Dhand, we can collectively create a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world.
The Indian economy has witnessed numerous policy changes over the years in its quest for transparency and accountability. One such measure that has been debated is the demonetization of high-value currency notes. In this opinion article, we explore the potential benefits of demonetizing Rs. 2000 notes in India today.
The Need for Demonetization
Since its introduction, the Rs. 2000 note has served a purpose in facilitating high-value transactions and reducing the burden of cash circulation. However, demonetization can be a powerful tool to combat corruption, black money, and counterfeiting, as demonstrated by the demonetization move of 2016, albeit with its own set of challenges.
Curbing Black Money and Corruption
Demonetization of Rs. 2000 notes can aid in curbing black money and corruption. High-value currency notes are often favored by individuals involved in illicit activities due to their ease of concealment and anonymity. By phasing out these notes, it becomes harder for such elements to hoard and circulate unaccounted wealth, leading to a more transparent economy.
Encouraging Digital Transactions
Demonetization can accelerate the ongoing shift towards digital transactions and a cashless economy. By reducing the availability of high-value currency, individuals are compelled to adopt digital payment methods, which leave behind a trail, making transactions more traceable and reducing the scope for tax evasion.
Curbing Counterfeiting
The demonetization of Rs. 2000 notes can serve as a deterrent against counterfeiting. High-value notes are often prime targets for counterfeiters due to the potential profit margins. By introducing new currency notes with enhanced security features and phasing out the existing ones, the government can make counterfeiting more difficult and protect the integrity of the currency.
Promoting Financial Inclusion
Demonetization can promote financial inclusion by encouraging individuals to open bank accounts and adopt formal banking channels. The move provides an opportunity to bring the unbanked population into the mainstream economy, fostering greater transparency and enabling access to financial services.
Challenges and Mitigation
It is crucial to acknowledge the challenges associated with demonetization, as evidenced during the 2016 exercise. Adequate measures should be implemented to mitigate these challenges, such as ensuring a smooth transition by introducing new currency denominations and managing the supply of lower-value currency notes to meet the demand.
Demonetizing Rs. 2000 notes in India today presents a potential pathway towards a more transparent and accountable economy. While challenges exist, the benefits, including curbing black money and corruption, promoting digital transactions, curbing counterfeiting, and advancing financial inclusion, are significant. The government should carefully assess the potential impact, devise a comprehensive implementation plan, and communicate effectively to minimize disruptions and maximize the positive outcomes of such a bold step.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any government or organization.
India, one of the fastest growing economies in the world, faces a number of environmental challenges such as air and water pollution, deforestation, climate change, and biodiversity loss. However, the country has also been taking significant steps towards sustainable development in recent years. India’s journey towards environmental sustainability has been marked by a number of ambitious policy initiatives, innovative solutions, and partnerships with international organizations.
One of the major environmental challenges that India faces is air pollution. The country is home to some of the most polluted cities in the world, with high levels of particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and other pollutants. To tackle this issue, India launched the National Clean Air Program (NCAP) in 2019, which aims to reduce air pollution levels by 20-30% in the next five years. The program includes measures such as setting up air quality monitoring stations, promoting electric vehicles, and encouraging public transport.
Water pollution is another major environmental challenge in India, with many rivers and lakes heavily polluted with industrial effluents and sewage. The government has launched the Jal Jeevan Mission to provide safe drinking water to all households in the country by 2024. The mission focuses on source sustainability and recharge, water conservation, and pollution abatement.
India is also committed to increasing the share of renewable energy in its energy mix. The country has set a target of achieving 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2022, which includes 100 GW of solar, 60 GW of wind, 10 GW of biomass, and 5 GW of small hydropower. The government has also launched several schemes to promote the adoption of renewable energy, such as the Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahaabhiyan (KUSUM) scheme, which aims to provide solar-powered irrigation pumps to farmers.
In addition to these policy initiatives, India has also been promoting innovative solutions to environmental challenges. For example, the country has launched the National Agroforestry Policy, which encourages farmers to adopt agroforestry practices to increase their income and promote biodiversity. The government has also launched the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, a national campaign to promote cleanliness and sanitation, which has been successful in reducing open defecation and improving waste management.
India has also been partnering with international organizations to promote environmental sustainability. For example, the country has joined the International Solar Alliance, a coalition of countries that aims to promote solar energy use worldwide. India is also a member of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and has signed several agreements with other countries to promote environmental cooperation.
India’s journey towards environmental sustainability is a long and challenging one, but the country has shown that it is committed to taking bold action to tackle environmental challenges. Through a combination of policy initiatives, innovative solutions, and partnerships with international organizations, India is paving the way towards a more sustainable future.
Despite the fact that the United States has been considering Pakistan as its key ally in combating militancy and terror, especially in Afghanistan, Islamabad has always been playing the role of a backstabber. Pakistan has been using a significant portion of military hardware and funds it has been receiving from the United States towards funding terrorist outfits both inside Afghanistan as well as South Asian region, including Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Indian states, including Jammu & Kashmir.
For these factors, to most of the counterterrorism and geopolitical analysts – when discussing the various inconvenient friendships of convenience in which the United States is entangled, they say – by depending on Pakistan, the US actually has not only been committing blunder, it also risks the entire region and the world towards notoriety of terrorism and militancy.
Pakistan has been consistently facing economic juggernauts since its creation in 1947 alongside a series of social challenges which is combined with domestic political instability and continuous threats posed by its military establishment to democracy. Pakistani democracy is mostly seen as a system directly controlled by its mighty military establishment – including Pakistani spy agency Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI). While Pakistan is still facing acute economic hardship – which according to my assessment is responsible for the country’s extreme focus on harboring terrorism – most of its South Asian neighbors, including Bangladesh and India as well as Asian neighbors such as China are gradually achieving economic prosperity with upliftment in various sectors.
Pakistan’s economy is mainly based on agriculture, while it could not achieve expected expansion in other spheres because of its rogue international policies alongside directionless and at times counterintuitive national-defense policies adopted by the ruling elites.
One of the major hurdles behind Pakistan’s inability of attaining expected economic progress is the warmongering tendencies of its military establishment which has fought four wars with India, including the 1971 liberation war in erstwhile East Pakistan which had defeated Islamabad’s mighty military thus paving path to emergence of Bangladesh, a country that has attained tremendous socio-economic progress during the past 53 years, while Pakistan has already become bankrupt and is considered by many nations in the world as a failed state or a rogue state.
Meanwhile, due to reprobate state policies and its military establishment’s unimaginable ambition of remaining as pseudo rulers – its democratic institutions are greatly affected – while its judiciary, which until now is considered to be comparatively independent – is also heading towards the opposite direction. International community has never considered any democratic government in Pakistan to be free from the influence of its military establishment and its intelligence agency, while even today, key figures in the country’s ruling government are deemed to be puppets.
It is important to mention here that due to Pakistan’s ideologies of maintaining its image as a radical Muslim nation with tremendous hatred towards India, Hindus and every “non-Muslim” societies and nations – including the United States Pakistani society has become favorable to Islamist militancy, particularly destructive acts targeting India, Hindu and the “non-Muslim” Western countries. Such notions are definitely counterproductive and to some extent suicidal for any nation.
For Pakistani society and its state-machinery’s sympathy and support towards Islamist militancy, outfits like Al Qaeda, the Taliban, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi are receiving institutional support from Pakistani military through its intelligence agency – the Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI). In my opinion, American policymakers now need to reboot their Pakistan policy and its decades-old support towards Islamabad, as such relations can only risk America’s own interest in the region, as Pakistan has always been playing the role of a backstabber.
In recent times, India has emerged as the most populous country in the world, surpassing China. With a staggering population of about 1.41 billion people and a rapid growth rate, this demographic trend has become a pressing concern. It is worth noting that India occupies only a mere 3 percent of the world’s land area, yet astonishingly accounts for 18 percent of the global population. This stark contrast although has raised significant apprehensions, should not be viewed only in the negative light.
Undoubtedly, a burgeoning population can give rise to valid concerns due to the associated negative consequences such as overcrowding, strain on limited resources, infrastructure challenges, and social issues encompassing poverty, inequality, and inadequate sanitation and hygiene. However, it is imperative to acknowledge that a growing population also presents numerous opportunities for India to emerge as a formidable economy, which cannot be dismissed.
As the concept of demographic dividend assumes significance, the increasing proportion of the elderly population in the country necessitates the replacement of the workforce with a vibrant and youthful labor pool. Population growth plays a crucial role in achieving this transition successfully. China’s experience with the one-child policy serves as a cautionary tale, as it now grapples with the implications of an aging population.
By 2035, it is projected that approximately 400 million individuals in China will be aged 60 and above, constituting around 30% of the total population. Furthermore, the ratio of elderly to young individuals is anticipated to become increasingly imbalanced, exacerbated by last year’s milestone where deaths exceeded births for the first time since 1961.
In contrast, India has refrained from implementing stringent population control policies and instead relies on family planning programs and education. This approach aims to encourage families to opt for smaller family sizes, thereby facilitating India’s progression through the stages of demographic transition towards attaining low birth and death rates, a hallmark of the fourth stage.
Thus, while the challenges associated with a growing population cannot be undermined, it is crucial to recognize the opportunities that this demographic trend brings forth. By adopting a strategic approach that prioritizes education, family planning programs, and the empowerment of its citizens, India can navigate the complexities posed by a burgeoning population and progress towards achieving sustainable development and improved quality of life for its people.
The quality of a population and its human resources hold more significance than sheer numbers. The potential of a growing population can be effectively harnessed when individuals are provided with access to excellent education and healthcare services. By nurturing a skilled workforce in the quinary and quaternary sectors, India can propel its economic growth and strive towards achieving its target of becoming a $5 trillion economy by the financial year 2029. This should be the primary focus for a developing and expanding country like India.
Presently, India ranks 132nd out of 191 countries in terms of Human Development Index, indicating ample room for improvement. By prioritizing education and healthcare, especially in rural areas, a larger percentage of the population can become job-ready and gain awareness about the consequences of high population growth. They will recognize that having more children not only means more hands to work, but essentially bring into light the fact that it means more mouths to feed.
Thomas Robert Malthus’s theory, which predicted population doubling every 25 years in a geometric progression, has been proven false due to the phenomenon of demographic transition. This is evident in India’s experience, as the fertility rate has declined from 5.9 in 1950 to 2 in 2021. Factors such as increased access to education for women, awareness about family planning, and the rise in the number of working women have contributed to this decline.
It demonstrates that population growth can be managed and regulated through development, thereby alleviating concerns associated with unsustainable growth.
Thus, the focus should shift from mere population numbers to enhancing the quality of the population and its human resources. By providing education and healthcare opportunities and supplementing them with the necessary social overhead capital, in remote and omitted areas, India can equip its citizens with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to a thriving economy.
This, in turn, will lead to a decline in fertility rates and mitigate concerns related to population growth. India has the potential to reap significant advantages from its growing population, and by emphasizing development and education, it can pave the way for sustainable progress and prosperity.
As a democratic nation, India upholds the principles of liberty, social equity, and balanced growth across all sections of society. However, it is important to acknowledge that there is still work to be done in terms of achieving these goals.
According to the Global Multidimensional Poverty Index 2021, India is ranked 66th out of 109 countries. This ranking highlight that the state must play a more effective role in uplifting vulnerable sections and ensure the quality of the population leading to equitable distribution of resources.
India’s growing population is a complex issue with both advantages and disadvantages. While the demographic dividend and market potential offer opportunities for economic growth, cultural diversity, and innovation, the challenges of overpopulation pressure, poverty, inequality, and strained infrastructure cannot be ignored.
Effectively managing the population growth requires a comprehensive approach that includes targeted policies on healthcare, education, employment, urban planning, and resource management. By addressing the challenges associated with a growing population and leveraging its advantages, India can strive towards sustainable development, equitable growth, and improved quality of life for all its citizens and make population growth more of a boon than a bane. To conclude, in today’s globalized economy, a more manpower will do more good than bad for a powerful labor intensive economy such as ours.
References
Paul, M. (2022). Live Mint. Retrieved from On top of the world: India most populous : https://www.livemint.com/news/india/india-overtakes-china-as-world-s-most-populous-nation-for-the-first-time-demographic-advantage-could-drive-economic-growth-but-job-creation-remains-a-challenge-11681928316885.html
The Hindu. (2022). Retrieved from Numbers game: On the State of World Population Report 2023 and the India projection: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/numbers-game-the-hindu-editorial-on-the-state-of-world-population-report-2023-and-the-india-projection/article66760015.ece
In the enchanting world of Disney’s “The Lion King,” the phrase “Hakuna Matata” reverberates as a mantra of carefree living. These two Swahili words, meaning “no worries,” encapsulate a philosophy that resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds. Hakuna Matata embodies a spirit of optimism, resilience, and the ability to find joy amidst life’s challenges. So, let us delve into the essence of Hakuna Matata and explore how we can apply its wisdom in our own lives.
At its core, Hakuna Matata encourages us to let go of unnecessary worries and live in the present moment. It serves as a reminder that dwelling on past regrets or fretting over an uncertain future only robs us of the precious time and experiences we have today. It teaches us to embrace a carefree attitude, unburdened by the weight of unnecessary concerns.
One key aspect of Hakuna Matata is accepting life’s imperfections and finding contentment in the midst of chaos. Just like the characters Timon and Pumbaa from “The Lion King,” who live their lives with lightheartedness and adaptability, we too can choose to approach challenges with a positive mindset. By focusing on the things we can control and letting go of what is beyond our reach, we can navigate through life’s ups and downs with greater ease.
Hakuna Matata also emphasizes the importance of friendship and the support we find in our relationships. Timon and Pumbaa’s unwavering loyalty to Simba, the film’s protagonist, demonstrates the power of genuine connections and the comfort that comes from knowing you have someone by your side. Surrounding ourselves with a strong support system, whether it be family, friends, or a community, can provide solace and strength during difficult times.
Moreover, Hakuna Matata encourages us to embrace our individuality and celebrate our uniqueness. Just as Simba discovers his true identity and embraces his responsibilities, we too can find our purpose and strive towards our goals. It reminds us that it is okay to make mistakes, to learn from them, and to grow into the best versions of ourselves.
Applying the principles of Hakuna Matata in our lives requires a conscious effort to let go of worries, adopt a positive mindset, nurture relationships, and embrace our authentic selves. It is not about ignoring challenges or avoiding responsibilities, but rather about approaching them with a lighter heart and an unwavering belief in our ability to overcome.
In a world that often feels filled with uncertainties and anxieties, Hakuna Matata serves as a guiding philosophy that reminds us to prioritize our well-being, find joy in the present, and foster connections with others. It teaches us to dance to the rhythm of life, even when the melody is unpredictable. So, let us embrace the spirit of Hakuna Matata and embark on a journey of resilience, happiness, and a life free from unnecessary worries.
It’s time for justice to occur for all associated with the Sikh Genocide of 1984, including the Former General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, who created the False Flag Operation that created the Khalistan Movement with the Ironic PM Indira Gandhi!
As has been reported widely in the news lately, Jagdish Tytler, former Congress Party Leader and MP (who was a minister in the Manmohan Singh government in 2004), has been a controversial figure in Indian politics due to his alleged involvement in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots in Delhi. The riots occurred in the aftermath of the assassination of then-PM Indira Gandhi by her Sikh bodyguards.
It is alleged that Tytler played a role in inciting violence against Sikhs during those riots, resulting in the loss of thousands of Sikhs. The Indian Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has recently filed a chargesheet against Congress leader Jagdish Tytler in the 38-year-old anti-Sikh riots case, on May 20th, 2023.
It is also alleged a major Bollywood actor in Amitabh Bachchan also amplified the incitement to violence with his alleged pronouncement of ‘KHOON KA BADLA KHOON’ (BLOOD AGAINST BLOOD) by appearing LIVE on the government-sponsored TV channel Doordarshan, (who’s policies and direction were originally shaped by none other than Indira Gandhi herself and her government), and it is alleged Amitabh Bachchan incited Hindus to spill blood of Sikhs.
He allegedly was the first to give such a pronouncement and allegedly spread violence throughout India on behest of his close childhood friend Rajiv Gandhi, then Prime Minister of India. Rajiv Gandhi was two when he first met Amitabh Bachchan who was barely four, at Allahabad.
However, while those that played roles in the violence are being brought to justice, albeit 38 years later, and are innocent until proven guilty, shouldn’t we analyze the plan originally including the Russian angle with Communists in Russia and in India?
1984 remains one of the darkest years in modern Indian history, as the history books show in June of that year, then PM Indira Gandhi ordered a military assault on the most significant religious center for the Sikhs, Darbar Sahib (i.e., the Golden Temple) in Amritsar, Punjab, which killed 1000’s of innocent lives including one Sikh Leader named Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. On October 31, 1984, PM Indira Gandhi was assassinated by two of her Sikh bodyguards. The plan to attack the Sikh leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, was called Operation Blue Star.
Now ironically all this was created due to Russian involvement in PM Indira Gandhi’s government and their attack on Afghanistan a few years earlier in 1979.
As we all view Russia’s invasion in the news lately, with a former KGB Head in charge of Russia, it’s ironic the same KGB intelligence agency of the Soviet Union had tipped off India’s Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) about a joint operation between Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and made bogus allegations that the United States’ Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) was to stir separatist unrest in the Indian state of Punjab. This was a False Flag Operation.
False claims were also made that India’s R&AW had received intelligence by interrogating a Pakistani soldier that over a thousand Special Service Group commandos of the Pakistan Army had been dispatched by the Pakistani government into Indian Punjab to assist Bhindranwale in his fight against the Indian government; however, no signs of commandos were found and no proof was provided by R&AW, and added to the mix was Operation Kontakt to amplify the False Flag Operation.
As has been reported in the media, in 1981, two years after the Russia invasion of Afghanistan, the Soviets launched Operation Kontakt, which was based on an alleged forged document purporting to contain details of the weapons and money provided by the ISI to Sikh militants who wanted to create an independent country.
In November 1982, Yuri Andropov, then General Secretary of the Communist Party and leader of the Soviet Union, in a role similar to Putin’s role today, approved a proposal to fabricate Pakistani intelligence documents detailing ISI plans to foment religious disturbances in Punjab and promote the creation of Khalistan as an independent Sikh state.
Indira Gandhi’s decision to move troops into Punjab was based on her taking seriously the information provided by the Soviets regarding secret CIA support for the Sikhs… Wait haven’t we seen this before? The CIA allegedly killed President JFK, despite the fact Lee Harvey Oswald defected to Russia, married a Russian lady, had a two year old child, before returning to Dallas to do what he did in 1963! But we foolishly blame the CIA!
Or the fake news that the CIA was involved in Russian controlled Tashkent in 1966, when PM Shastri died!
Was all this related from the wrong selection of Indira Gandhi to be PM?
It’s now time that we ask: “How in a matter of a decade, did India lose US support by 1971, when the US sided with Pakistan, after the death in 1966, of PM Shastri in Tashkent?” JFK had saved India in 1962, when China attacked! Maybe it’s time to call the Indira Gandhi regime a Communist regime! We need to assess the PM Indira Gandhi regime:
– Emergency Rule, where opposition leaders were imprisoned, and media was shut down, much like Putin’s Russia today!
– Fraud Elections, as declared by the High Court of Allahabad, while it’s reported by Radio Free Europe that Putin’s election victory of the ruling United Russia party was fraudulent,
– Nationalization of banks, and kicking out US firms, much like Putin has done currently,
– alignment to the Russians… including most military purchases, which is self-evident in Russia today!
So while one Nehru does almost nothing when China actually attacked in ’62, and gets saved by the US, another Nehru in PM Indira Gandhi over-reacts twenty years later in ’82, and blames the US!
India is attacked by China in ’62!
According to India’s Home Minister Amit Shah, “During the war with China in 1962, PM Jawaharlal Nehru said bye-bye to Assam. Congress forgot that the entire Northeast is also a part of India,” a reference to the order to the Indian Army to retreat from a vast part of the region in the face of the Chinese invaders.
President JFK to the rescue to save India! Source: Photo: AP
What’s often forgotten is it was US President JFK who during the 1962 border conflict, came to India’s rescue.
Maybe it’s time to thank JFK, and re-assess the US, with all the False Flag Operations from the Russians! And few know how India could be Tibet now, if it weren’t for a fellow PhD graduate with my father!
My father Dr. Jugal Kishore Sharma came to UC Berkeley to study originally Agricultural Economics in the late 1950’s. As he and my mother (who also was a graduate student at UC Berkeley at the time) would tell me often there would be Indian student social events where fellow students and faculty would attend and discuss the current topics of the day over tea and samosas.
At the time, a fellow graduate in Agricultural Economics was Dr. John Kenneth Galbraith who was by then a professor at Harvard, and was often a guest lecturer and had a fondness for his time at UC Berkeley and the time spent there, often with Indian students. Perhaps that may have left an indelible mark on him that India was worth saving! In 1956, Galbraith visited India, and found the country fascinating, Galbraith was rewarded for his efforts in the Kennedy campaign by an appointment as U.S. Ambassador to India. He held the post from 1961 to 1963.
According to JFK’s Archives, the India Files is very telling, on Dr. John Kenneth Galbraith’s role in convincing President JFK as found here: https://www.jfklibrary.org/asset-viewer/archives/JFKNSF/111/JFKNSF-111-006.
This folder contains telegrams primarily between United States Ambassador to India John Kenneth Galbraith and Carl Kaysen, Deputy Special Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs. Topics include military assistance to India, relations between India and Pakistan, U.S. policy towards India, and the contents of letters sent by President John F. Kennedy to Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan.
Thanks to Dr. John Kenneth Galbraith’s convincing of President JFK, during the 1962 border conflict, the US sent C-130 Hercules aircraft with arms and ammunition supplies as well as essential clothing to Indian soldiers on the battlefront.
As described here by Colonel Anil Athale (retd), in his article entitled: “The Untold Story: How Kennedy came to India’s aid in 1962,” Nehru’s handling of the crisis and panic reactions were in marked contrast to the cool and confident Kennedy. The generous and prompt response by JFK made him an icon in India. But the US State Department, under pressure from Pakistan and with British support, scuttled the chances of an India-US alliance. Should we now ask why? What was Mountbatten’s role with Nehru in this?
United States Ambassador to India John Kenneth Galbraith and Prime Minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru conferring at the time of the Sino-Indian border conflict. Source: USIS
Shouldn’t a PM Indira Gandhi have known the US help in 1962, and Russia’s False Flag Operations?
All a PM Indira Gandhi needed to do was pick up the phone and call then President Jimmy Carter who was president until 1981, or President Reagan afterwards or ideally his Vice President George H.W. Bush who actually ran the CIA previously. But she didn’t, and over-reacted, for fear of looking weak like her father!
It’s now proven that the American President JFK saved India in ’62, along with critical roles by Canadians like Dr. John Kenneth Galbraith and indirectly Indians like my father, Dr. Jugal Kishore Sharma, along with the Indian military.
Maybe it’s time to assess the False Flag Operations from the Communists within Russia and within the Congress Party of India!
Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country!
Thanks…
Akshay Sharma (Author’s Bio): Akshay Sharma is a Computer Engineer, tech analyst, ex-Gartner, having authored 280+ research notes, on emerging technologies like Cybersecurity, 5G, and IoT. He has worked for Canada’s Dept of Defense, advised and deployed solutions with DISA: Defense Information Security Agency, at Nortel and Siemens, and advised various 3-letter agencies in the US. A frequent speaker at tech events, he is often quoted in leading institutions like CNN, Wall St. Journal, and CIO.com. He is a former CTO of one of the first video/WiFi smartphone firms and an entrepreneur in the tech sector, having worked for firms that are now part of leading firms like Intel, IBM, Nokia, and Ericsson. He advised the UK’s Ofcom, the US’s Dept. of Homeland Security, and was quoted in the Wall Street Journal banning Huawei in 2012, and stated in the Huffington Post, the Chinese hacking of Nortel is a “wakeup call”. Sharma contributed to the Flight Control protocol ARINC 629 Databus used in commercial avionics and military fighter jets for “fly-by-wire” systems, including the newer Boeing 777X. Additionally he is a Cybersecurity analyst, and CTO for Kovair.com with clients like the World Bank, India’s DRDO and US Defense sector clients.
