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Bridging borders: Digital India’s unstoppable journey reshaping international trade

vandanamm
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Bridging borders: Digital India’s unstoppable journey reshaping international trade

Vandana M M

In the globalized digital age, India has emerged as a formidable player, redefining the contours of international trade through its ambitious Digital India initiative. Digital India, a government initiative launched in 2015, aims to make India a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. With cutting-edge technology, innovative policies, and a thriving digital ecosystem, the world’s largest democracy has embarked on an unstoppable journey to bridge borders and revolutionize international trade. Let’s delve into how Digital India is reshaping the landscape of global commerce with current facts and figures.

Digital India has set the stage for an e-commerce revolution, propelling India to the forefront of online retail. As of 2023, India’s e-commerce market is valued at a staggering $95 billion and is expected to reach $200 billion by 2026. This exponential growth has unlocked a myriad of opportunities for international businesses looking to tap into India’s vast consumer base.

As per estimates, India’s digital exports are projected to skyrocket to a staggering $300 billion by 2025. Today, India stands proudly as the world’s second-largest exporter of IT (Information Technology) and ITeS (Information Technology-enabled Services) services. With an increasingly skilled workforce, a vibrant startup culture, and a conducive business ecosystem, India has become the go-to destination for tech solutions and digital services worldwide.

The implementation of Digital India has significantly improved the ease of doing business in the country. India’s jump in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Index from 142nd in 2014 to 63rd in 2023 speaks volumes about the transformative impact of digitization on the business environment. Streamlined processes, online documentation, and digital approvals have cut bureaucratic red tape, attracting foreign investors and facilitating cross-border trade.

Since the inception of the initiative, FDI in India has witnessed a remarkable surge of over 50%. International investors are increasingly recognizing India’s potential as a technology hub, and they are pouring funds into various digital sectors, including e-commerce, fintech, digital payments, and digital infrastructure.

The Digital India initiative has been instrumental in nurturing the fintech revolution, empowering India’s economy with seamless digital payment solutions. As of 2023, the transaction value of India’s digital payments industry has surpassed a staggering $1.5 trillion. The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has emerged as a game-changer, enabling cross-border payments and facilitating international trade like never before.

India’s successful implementation of e-governance practices has earned international recognition and sparked interest from other nations. Countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and Indonesia have sought inspiration from Digital India’s governance models to modernize their public services and enhance citizen engagement.

Digital India has driven the adoption of smart manufacturing practices and Industry 4.0 technologies. The Indian manufacturing sector is projected to reach $1 trillion by 2025, with automation, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT) playing pivotal roles. This transformation is making Indian goods more competitive in the global market and attracting foreign investments in this sector.

Digital India has spurred India’s interest in engaging in digital trade agreements with other nations. As of 2023, India has signed digital trade agreements with countries like Singapore, Australia, and the UK. These agreements aim to facilitate data flows, e-commerce, and tech collaborations, bolstering India’s position in the global trade ecosystem.

Digital India’s empowering embrace is rewriting migration, as virtual borders dissolve and opportunities flow freely across a digital realm. As the nation embraces digital transformation, the barriers of geography are fading, leading to an era where individuals are ‘virtually migrating’ across boundaries, breaking shackles, and connecting in unprecedented ways.

As of 2023, India boasts an impressive 200% growth in remote job postings, a clear indicator of how the digital landscape has transcended traditional office confines. As of 2023, a staggering 50 million Indian students are enrolled in online courses, broadening their horizons and enabling them to access world-class education from the comfort of their homes. India’s start-up ecosystem has soared to new heights, with over 75,000 active start-ups as of 2023. 

Digital India’s relentless journey to reshape international trade has already yielded astonishing results, with remarkable growth across various sectors and industries. From fostering e-commerce growth and ease of doing business to revolutionizing fintech and manufacturing, India’s digital prowess has captured the world’s attention. As we move forward, it is evident that Digital India will continue to be a driving force in bridging borders and ushering in a new era of global trade dynamics. The world must take note as India’s digital revolution remains unstoppable.

India’s digital transformation has been a remarkable journey, and it is reshaping international trade in profound ways. The Digital India initiative, launched by the government, has spurred technology adoption among Indian consumers and businesses, setting the stage for a connected nation. With the rapid spread of digital technologies, India’s companies must follow suit to fully leverage the potential value of a digital economy.

Revolution in education policy good or bad?

nerissa
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Revolution in education policy good or bad?

“Education is the key that unlocks the golden door to freedom.” —George Washington Carver. Of the latest 2021 survey conducted by the World Population Review, India stands at the 32nd position on education quality. Over the years, education has been the backbone of a strong economy. Years before, it began with a “guru” teaching a child under a tree to a well-developed infrastructural class and much more in years to come.

There are many Indian examinations like UPSC, IIT-JEE, CA, NEET, GATE, ETC. However, most of these are after completion of primary education now with the new education policy changes at the basic education level. The New National Education Policy 2023 is a watershed event in the educational system of India. On July 29, 2020, the Ministry of Education, formerly known as the Ministry of Human Resource Development, made substantial revisions to education policy after 34 years of following the same rules. The Indian government just passed the New Education Policy for the year 2023.

The fundamental goal of the National Education Policy is to increase the standard of education in India to a worldwide level, allowing the country to emerge due to the National Education Policy’s universalization of education.

The most noticeable change in the New Education Policy 2023 is replacing the 10+2 framework with the 5+3+3+4 structure. For a long time, the 10+2 has been employed in our educational system. As a result, a complete change in that framework may perplex the youth.

Under the Pedagogical and Circular Structure, the government has separated student instruction into four divisions. The four categories are secondary, middle, preparatory, and fundamental. These four levels of education will be essential to students’ educational progress throughout their school years. The Foundation Stage is the initial phase in a child’s education.

This program will train students for 5 years. This five year will include the pre-primary. The preparation stage will be the second stage. This educational stage will likewise last three years. The intermediate and secondary phases will be laid out in the third, fourth, and fifth grades. Middle school will be the third stage of schooling.

This is for 6th and 8th-grade pupils. These three years will prepare students for secondary school’s last stage of their education. The secondary stage will be the final phase of students’ educational lives; instead of two years, students will have four years to finish their secondary education from class 9 to class 12.The primary objectives of the new policy can be stated as:

  • Determine and cultivate the potential of each kid
  • Improve children’s reading and math skills.
  • Providing chances for flexible learning
  • Invest in public education.
  • Improve the quality of education
  • Introduce Indian culture to youngsters.
  • Conduct outstanding research, educate good governance, and empower youngsters.
  • Education policy transparency
  • Emphasise the use of technology and assess
  • Teach a variety of languages
  • Enhance your child’s creativity and logical reasoning

The Ministry of Education replaced the previous education policy with the new education policy. The Ministry of Human Resources has been renamed the Ministry of Education. Except for medical and legal courses, the national education policy will henceforth make education universal. The division of science, commerce, and arts streams in the education system will be irrelevant from now onwards. Importance will be given to analytical and logical rather than the old-fashioned long paraphrased answers. There will be a role of digital learning with major computer languages. Board examinations will be held only twice a year. The M. Phil (a requirement to hold a doctorate degree) will be passed out. 

Now, a child can skip a specific division of science, arts, or humanities. A child with good art likes mathematics, so the child can carry on with subjects of his liking. Under the new education policy, many such combinations can be taken according to the field of interest. Also, previously, a three-year study was required to get a minimum degree certificate, due to which many students had been dropouts as many lost interest or financial crisis. The new policy gives an edge. Anyone can pursue a subject, and if he or she lacks interest, he or she can try something else without a year’s loss, as he or she will be rewarded with a certificate. There are many popular and important international examinations like The Test of English as a Foreign Language, the International English Language Testing System, the Graduate Record Examination, the Graduate Management Admission Test, the Scholastic Aptitude Test, and many others. Different universities require different scores; however, an average score of 6.0 to 7.0 is accepted for IELTS. Each university has different requirements according to which students have to appear for exams, IELTS being the most common where English is a native language. The National Institutional Ranking Framework is a mechanism used by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, to rate higher education institutions in India. It is an essential key that is taken into consideration for admission to a prestigious institution. As of the latest update in 2023, IIT Madras has the highest NIRF ranking with a score of 90.04, followed by IISc Bangalore with 83.90, and finally, IIT Delhi with 82.16. With such policies and achievements, the country as a whole is taking steps towards progression. As every famously said, “education is the key to success”- Solomon Ortiz.

BJP MP Pragya Singh Thakur appears before NIA court in Malegaon blast case

paritosh
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BJP MP Pragya Singh Thakur appears before NIA court in Malegaon blast case

On September 25, 2023, BJP MP Pragya Singh Thakur appeared before a special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court in Mumbai in connection with the 2008 Malegaon blast case. The case was initially probed by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) before it was transferred to the NIA.

The Malegaon blast case dates back to September 29, 2008, when six people were killed and more than 100 others were injured in a bomb blast near a mosque in Malegaon town of Nashik district. Pragya Singh Thakur is one of the prime accused in the case.

In August 2022, a forensic expert in the case found a link between the traces of explosives found on an LML Vespa scooter recovered from the blast site and Pragya Singh Thakur, who allegedly owned the two-wheeler. The two-wheeler was allegedly registered in the name of Bhopal BJP MP Pragya Singh Thakur.

In January 2018, Thakur had filed an appeal challenging an order of a special NIA court that rejected her plea seeking discharge in the case. However, on September 25, 2023, Thakur appeared before the court to record her statement.

Thakur informed the NIA court that she suffers from health issues that prevent her from waking up early in the morning. The court then directed the jail authorities to provide her with necessary medical assistance.

The special court is likely to start recording statements of the accused from October 3, 2023. The Malegaon blast case has been ongoing for over a decade, and the appearance of Pragya Singh Thakur before the court is a significant development in the case. The court’s decision will be eagerly awaited by all parties involved.

Summary of the Malegaon Blast Case and Pragya Singh Thakur’s Involvement

  • – The Malegaon blast case dates back to September 29, 2008, when six people were killed and more than 100 others were injured in a bomb blast near a mosque in Malegaon town of Nashik district.
    • – Pragya Singh Thakur is one of the prime accused in the case.
    • – In August 2022, a forensic expert in the case found a link between the traces of explosives found on an LML Vespa scooter recovered from the blast site and Pragya Singh Thakur, who allegedly owned the two-wheeler.
    • – Thakur had filed an appeal challenging an order of a special NIA court that rejected her plea seeking discharge in the case.
    • – On September 25, 2023, Thakur appeared before a special NIA court in Mumbai to record her statement.
    • – The special court is likely to start recording statements of the accused from October 3, 2023.
    • – Thakur informed the NIA court that she suffers from health issues that prevent her from waking up early in the morning. The court then directed the jail authorities to provide her with necessary medical assistance.

One nation one election: Complexities, controversies, and prospects

Arijit
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One nation one election: Complexities, controversies, and prospects

In the cacophony of Indian politics, one idea has been reverberating with increasing intensity – “One Nation One Election” (ONOE). It’s a concept that promises to streamline India’s election process, reduce costs, and, proponents argue, enhance governance stability. However, the devil is in the details, as they say, and ONOE is no exception.

The idea of synchronizing India’s elections is not entirely new. It was first proposed by the Law Commission of India in its 170th report in 1999. The report argued that frequent elections disrupt governance and impose a heavy financial burden on the country. However, it wasn’t until recently that ONOE gained significant traction.

  • Pros and Cons

Proponents argue that ONOE can bring about stability in governance. Politicians frequently prioritise election campaigns over governance in the current system. Elections at various levels might be coordinated, which might enable administrations to concentrate on policy implementation for longer periods of time. Additionally, elections in India are expensive to hold.

According to a research by the Centre for Media Studies, the Lok Sabha elections cost Rs. 55,000 crore, making it one of the most expensive elections in human history. By lowering the number of elections and streamlining the electoral process, the ONOE might result in significant cost savings. These savings could be redirected towards development and welfare programs.

For the seven-phase Lok Sabha election in the country in 2019, up to three lakh paramilitary forces as well as over twenty lakh state police officials and home guards were deployed. According to authorities from the Home Ministry, this deployment was the largest ever in India. And during the forthcoming elections, this number would continue to rise. Consolidating elections may also aid in the more efficient use of resources, such as people and security forces. By doing so, resources may become available for more pressing jobs.

Despite the presence of anti-defection laws, the introduction of fixed-term elections appears to be a hopeful promise for ending the age-old practise of political horse-trading. This change may make it far more difficult for elected officials to engage in opportunistic party switching or alliance formation purely for personal advantage. Furthermore, the shift to planned elections may result in fewer ostentatious gifts and populist policy initiatives that have become synonymous with numerous election cycles. Even if we can’t completely stop these practises, their frequency may noticeably decrease. A less frequent election schedule could be a lifeline for state governments, who are now under financial stress as a result of the incessant electoral calendar.

Critics, on the other hand, contend that democratic values shouldn’t be sacrificed for stability. Regular elections are necessary to hold elected officials responsible. Politicians may become complacent if their frequency is decreased.

The federal structure of India is a cornerstone of its democracy. The centralization of authority and erosion of state sovereignty raised by ONOE, according to critics, threaten to destroy this system. State governments would experience pressure to align their ideas with the national faction in power, potentially jeopardising variety in governance.

India is incredibly diverse, with states facing unique challenges. Critics argue that aligning elections may neglect regional issues. Different states may require distinct policies and leaders, and synchronizing elections could overlook these specific needs. Implementing ONOE would require significant legal changes and pose logistical challenges. Amendments to electoral laws, political consensus, and infrastructure readiness are all factors that need to be considered.

  • Constitutionality and Legal Considerations

The Indian Constitution makes no explicit mention of ONOE. Elections in India are primarily governed by the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and other applicable laws.

The conduct of elections in India is under the control of the Election Commission of India. While it has the jurisdiction to make recommendations and propose changes to election-related laws, any constitutional revisions or major changes to the electoral system must be authorised by the Indian Parliament.

Hence any significant changes to the electoral system, such as the implementation of ONOE, would require amendments to these laws, which makes such bill highly improbable to pass in both the houses of the parliament. Although, with a majority, the NDA is known for conducting such daring actions in the past successfully. Therefore, even if the passage of this measure seems unlikely, it is most definitely conceivable. Additionally, it would give the BJP-led administration a plan for the 19th Lok Sabha Election.

  • A Global Perspective

ONOE is not unique to India; other countries have experimented with synchronized elections: Italy has synchronized its national and regional elections at various points in its history. Sweden is known for its synchronized elections, holding national, regional, and municipal elections on the same day. This system is often praised for its efficiency and reduced election-related costs. South Africa has synchronized its national elections for the National Assembly and provincial legislatures to promote efficiency and reduce the frequency of elections. Belgium has experimented with synchronized elections, but it’s a complex case due to its federal structure and regional diversity. Elections for the federal parliament, regional parliaments, and the European Parliament have been aligned at times, but the process has faced challenges due to linguistic and regional divisions.

  • Way Forward

The ONOE proposal in India is a complex and multifaceted issue that touches upon governance stability, cost savings, democratic principles, federalism, and the neglect of regional issues. While it offers potential benefits, it also raises valid concerns about its impact on the federal structure and diversity of governance.

The constitutionality of ONOE remains a matter of interpretation, and its success would depend on the political will to amend electoral laws. Comparative examples from other countries demonstrate that synchronized elections can work but come with their own set of challenges.

The debate around ONOE in India is far from settled, in fact it is in its nascent stage. It is essential for policymakers and citizens to engage in a thorough and informed discussion to weigh the pros and cons and determine whether this proposal aligns with India’s democratic ideals and unique federal structure. Ultimately, the decision should prioritize both the efficiency of governance and the preservation of democratic principles that are the cornerstone of India’s vibrant democracy.

DUSU elections: Student welfare or money-power play?

kritika
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DUSU elections: Student welfare or money-power play?

Delhi University Students Union is known to be one of the most prominent student elections in the country which claims to be a student union but the reality is much more than that. While candidates and parties involved portray to be student organizations, the reality differs far away from the student life. 

While it is all glittery on the outside where every candidate puts forth the claims of ‘changing the university’, the reality lies on the campus roads at 2 A.M in the night where alcohols and weed make their way through the boys hostels, it lies behind the AC rooms where men throw money and women are asked to throw their bodies, it lies behind a caste system which looks at the surname of every candidate, it lies behind the big politicians who treat them as puppets of their own interest and it lies behind gender of superiority where a women can never be a Presidential Candidate. 

Elections are happening again in 2023, the key candidates are again money and power which are bound to win but where are we headed as a student community is a question. University of Delhi does not belong to rich brats but it belongs to student leaders who understand the student struggles. It deserves a union which works on the ground and not in their AC cabin. It deserves a fair union which is a students union and not a means of exploiting power. 

India’s Duty-Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) Scheme for Least Developed Countries (LDCs)

tejas
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India’s Duty-Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) Scheme for Least Developed Countries (LDCs)

INTRODUCTION:

India is the center epitome of the rising world economy. India recognizes the importance of promoting trade and economic development in Least Developed Countries (LDCs). India becomes the first country to extend its helping hand and support to Least developed countries (LDCs). India announced the Duty-Free Tariff Preference(DFTP) Scheme for LDCs 2008. This decision to provide DFTP access for LDCs was the outcome of the WTO Hong Kong Ministerial Meeting, held in December 2005. The scheme was announced to strengthen trade relations and provide preferential market access to LDCs.

DUTY-FREE TARIFF PREFERENCE (DFTP) SCHEME: 

The Government of India initiated this scheme for the Least Developed Countries(LDCs) to support Least Developed Countries(LDCs) by providing preferential market access. India was the first developing country to introduce a preferential tariff program for Least Developed Countries(LDCs). Under this scheme, many Least Developed Countries(LDCs) products are granted duty-free entry into the Indian market, promoting bilateral trade and economic cooperation between India and these countries.

Under the DFTP scheme, 98.2 % of product categories are duty-free and preferential treatment, originating from Least Developed Countries—the rest, 1.8 % of the product categories, are imported into India with regular duties. India made US$ 9.93 billion worth of imports from LDCs in 2016.

Beneficiary countries under this DFTP Scheme are: 

SL NOCOUNTRYDATE JOINEDSL NOCOUNTRYDATE JOINED
1Cambodia13-Aug-0811Benin19-Jan-09
2Tanzania13-Aug-0812Myanmar19-Jan-09
3Ethiopia28-Aug-0813Eritrea19-Jan-09
4Mozambique28-Aug-0814Burkina Faso20-Mar-09
5Samoa28-Aug-0815Gambia20-Mar-09
6Malawi28-Aug-0816Sudan04-May-09
7Laos28-Aug-0817Senegal09-Jun-09
8Uganda31-Oct-0818Lesotho06-Aug-09
9Rwanda31-Oct-0819Mali06-Aug-09
10Madagascar31-Oct-0820Somalia13-May-10

FEATURES AND BENEFITS OF THE SCHEME:

  • Tariff Exemption: Under this Scheme, Least Developed Countries have a significant advantage in selling their products in India and have been exempted from import duties. Through this scheme, eliminating tariffs makes the Least Developed Country’s (LDCs) goods more affordable and compete with the Indian market products. 
  • Favorable Trade: This scheme has allowed Least Developed Countries(LDCs) products to expand their business in the Indian market. It provides them access to increased exports and attracts many customers in India. 
  • Increase market access: This scheme allows all the Least Developed Countries(LDCs) to boost their exports, attract foreign investors, and provide more employment opportunities.
  • Product diversification: This scheme considers various products, which include textiles, agricultural products, chemical products, and many more. India aims to foster sustainable economic development in Developed Countries(LDCs) by encouraging export diversification. 
  • Technical Assistance: Through this scheme, there is a transfer of technology that promotes trade and development. As a part of the DFTP scheme, India offers technical assistance and training to Least Developed Countries(LDCs) to enhance their standard of exports and the quality of their products.

IMPACT ON LEAST DEVELOPED COUNTRIES (LDCs) THROUGH THIS SCHEME:

  • Trade Promotion: This scheme, providing duty-free access, has increased the trade volume between India and Least Developed Countries(LDCs). They can export their products to the Indian market at a competitive price, thus leading to trade inflow and revenue generation. 
  • Least Developed Countries(LDCs) growth: This scheme has played an essential role for all the Least Developed Countries(LDCs) countries. Export opportunities lead to an increase in their production and the creation of more employment opportunities, thus leading to an increase in income generation. Thus increasing those countries below poverty to rise and fight their economic crisis. 
  • Comparative advantage: This scheme encourages Least Developed Countries(LDCs) to diversify their export, thus providing them with a sector-wise comparative advantage that fosters long-term economic stability. 

CONCLUSION:

 India’s Duty-Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) Scheme for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) is a significant initiative to promote trade and economic growth to Least Developed Countries(LDCs). Granting duty-free access to the Indian market with a wide range of products helped them bring growth into their economy. The foremost objective of this scheme is to foster economic growth and development in Least Developed Countries(LDCs) by providing better export opportunities, which would have been possible only by reducing or eliminating tariffs. Thus, this scheme creates a platform for Least Developed Countries(LDCs) to expand their exports, strengthen the bilateral trade relationship between countries, and contribute to the global economy. 

Indian politics : A path paved with insults and intolerance

ritviksaikia
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Indian politics : A path paved with insults and intolerance

Politics has always been a place where beliefs and views clash. But in recent years, the tone of political dialogue in India has altered dramatically and distressingly. Politicians no longer partake in spirited conversations where they articulate their positions with respect for their opponents. Today, it appears that underhanded criticism, abuses to the person, and offensive language have taken over the political sphere and serve only to denigrate politics as a whole.

The fact that this transition is a reflection of a wider cultural trend towards intolerance is one of the most painful features of it. Politicians are a reflection of the society they represent; they do not operate in a vacuum. They are using hate speech, slurs, and disparaging language more frequently, which means that the public is coming to accept such behaviour. A dangerous trend that endangers the foundation of a diverse and democratic society is the normalisation of intolerance.

In the past, despite ferocious political rivalry and ideological conflict, leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and others always conducted political debates with a certain amount of decency and respect. They were mindful that their comments impacted the entire country rather than only their political rivals.

Today’s politicians, however, seem to have lost this integral principle of moral leadership. They resort to personal jabs and character assassinations in place of focussing on the issues that have an impact on the lives of millions.

The emergence of social media has made this issue worse by providing politicians a stage from which to hurl abuses and indulge in name-calling with even greater direct and widespread effect. They now often engage in Twitter fights and Facebook rants to settle scores and further rifts rather than promoting civil discourse and constructive debates.

There are several repercussions of this worsening political debate. It erodes the public’s trust in their elected members and the legitimacy of political institutions.

Today, the situation of Indian politics is characterised by xenophobic remarks, crude insults, and belittling language, which is quite concerning. It depicts the alarming intolerance that has sneaked into our culture.

We must call for a return to the decorum and respect that once characterised political debate in India if we are to preserve the integrity of our democracy and ensure a better future for our country and compel our politicians to put the welfare of the nation and its citizens ahead rather than petty grudges.

UN Secretary-General’s apt reference to Maha Upanishad: “One Earth, One Family, One Future”

Deep Joy Dey Mazumdar
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UN Secretary-General’s apt reference to Maha Upanishad: “One Earth, One Family, One Future”

In a world marked by division, conflict, and urgent global challenges, it’s essential to draw inspiration from ancient wisdom to find a path towards unity, peace, and sustainable progress. One such source of timeless wisdom is the Maha Upanishad, a sacred text within the ancient Indian scriptures known as the Upanishads. At the recent G20 press conference, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres eloquently referenced the Maha Upanishad, using the phrase “One Earth, One Family, One Future” to emphasize the need for global unity and transformation. Let’s delve deeper into the profound wisdom encapsulated in this ancient scripture.

In my opinion, it was not just a speech; it was a powerful reminder of the profound wisdom that can be found in ancient texts like the Maha Upanishad. The Secretary-General’s reference to the Maha Upanishad and the phrase “One Earth, One Family, One Future” was not just a casual mention. It was a deliberate choice, and in my view, an incredibly apt one. Let’s break down why.

Understanding the Maha Upanishad in the UN Secretary-General’s Speech:

In the context of the UN Secretary-General’s speech at the G20 press conference, the reference to the Maha Upanishad and the phrase “One Earth, One Family, One Future” served as a poignant and timely reminder of the interconnectedness of our world and the urgent need for unity and cooperation among nations. The choice to draw inspiration from this ancient text was particularly apt, given the pressing global challenges highlighted in the speech, including the climate crisis, conflicts, technological risks, poverty, and inequality.

One Earth:

The phrase “One Earth” in the context of the speech emphasized the shared responsibility of all nations in addressing global environmental issues. It underscored the reality that the Earth is a finite resource, and its well-being affects every individual and nation on the planet. In a world where environmental concerns are paramount, the Maha Upanishad’s wisdom resonated aptly by urging nations to unite in preserving and protecting our one and only Earth.

One Family:

The concept of “One Family” in the speech highlighted the need for global solidarity and empathy in addressing pressing challenges. It underscored that, despite our differences, we are all part of a larger human family, and our destinies are intertwined. This concept resonated aptly with the global context of increasing divisions and conflicts, emphasizing the imperative of unity and cooperation among nations.

One Future:

“One Future” was particularly apt in the speech as it called attention to the long-term consequences of our actions and decisions. It stressed that the choices we make today have a profound impact on future generations. This concept was highly relevant in the context of addressing climate change, sustainable development, and ensuring a better world for future generations.

Applying the Wisdom Today:

The Maha Upanishad’s wisdom, referenced by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in his speech, was highly apt because it offered a timeless and universal message. In a world where the challenges we face are increasingly global in nature, the call for “One Earth, One Family, One Future” resonates as a unifying and inclusive philosophy that can guide nations towards cooperative solutions.

The reference to the Maha Upanishad and the phrase “One Earth, One Family, One Future” in UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ speech was highly apt and relevant. It provided a spiritual and philosophical foundation for addressing the pressing global issues of our time, emphasizing the need for unity, compassion, and a shared commitment to building a better future for all.

AIADMK under EPS will be exposed like Blue Jackal in 2024

S Ranganathan
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AIADMK under EPS will be exposed like Blue Jackal in 2024

The so called brilliant, firm and much needed decision of EPS (E Palanisamy) to move out of NDA alliance has not cut much ice with many political parties in Tamil Nadu, especially those alliance partners of DMK. The sense is that AIADMK under EPS has lost its trustworthiness, political credence and it appears to be strong more due to the money power than the real ground support of people of the state.   

EPS might have been under the calculation that by moving away from NDA, he can attract congress and other fringe players into his fold but that looks farfetched as on date mainly due to the lack of trust and ability of EPS and his party to win any seats in coming election.

The core anti DMK voters in urban Tamil Nadu has shifted towards Annamalai and BJP and so are the hard core Hindu voters. A few caste arithmetic if BJP could formulate in southern Tamil Nadu, BJP can put up a strong show and can even push EPS to third position in many constituencies. If BJP could push AIADMK to third position in at least 20-30% of constituencies means, the fate of AIADMK in 2026 election is a gone story for EPS and that would push EPS to fall at the mercy of BJP and Annamalai in future. 

BJP under Modiji is strong, ever strong and stronger than 2019 and BJP under Modiji is going to win with resounding majority in 2024. Annamalai has done excellent ground work for BJP in the state and has kindled the aspiration, hope and desire of people of the state and the people look up to BJP and have beyond Dravidian parties. 

The En mann, En makkal yatra of Annamalai not only reflects the aspiration of people at the ground zero yawning for a change but also shown the mirror to both DMK and ADIAMK that they are going irrelevant. Corruption baggage of both DMK and AIADMK is not going to leave these parties to celebrate their past glory and soon many of them are going pay for their past ugly deeds. 

Need of the hour is that the central leadership of BJP must extend its full support to Annamalai and also must ensure speedy disposal of corruption cases against all those DMK Ministers. Soon Annamalai must expose AIADMK files as well and all those corrupt leaders of AIADMK also must be brought to the book. People of Tamil Nadu wants nothing less than severe punishment of those guilty. The anti-DMK votes are rapidly eroding from AIADMK because AIADMK is weak and precarious to oppose DMK. 

Until a formidable political force was not there in the state, this kind of arrangement between DMK and AIADMK was fine but the political battlefield of the state has changed dramatically since 2014 in general and after the entry of Annamalai in particular. DMK is clueless and it is opposing BJP at the ideological level and has ignored AIADMK which is its political challenges at least on paper. 

On the contrary, the AIADMK is also opposing BJP because BJP has taken its political space of galvanizing all anti-DMK voter base. The leadership of AIADMK is weak, the party exist more due to money power than due to supporter base of people. 

This is a fortune time for many fringe players in Tamil Nadu. If they align under BJP and contest election under the leadership of Modiji, winning a few seats is possible and besides that pushing AIADMK to third position in many constituencies is also possible. The threat of DMK is how to protect its minority voter base, now AIADMK is also going to claim.  

When both DMK and AIADMK focus on minority voter base, both of them are going to neglect the interest of Tamil Nadu as well as the core anti-DMK vote. Both of them are going to oppose Modiji which is quite good where polarization of vote would take place in favour and against Modiji. Even if BJP could not win much seats this election, but the party could come to a formidable level in 2026 where AIADMK will be at the mercy of BJP. 

As on date, no alliance partners of DMK are willing to align with AIADMK and if that does not happen in 2024, AIADMK will be exposed like blue Jackal and will get marginalized. Today all those who talk about EPS as great leader, shrewd politicians etc., are doing so purely based on the past glory like how the Blue Jackal could confuse its enemies until rain expose its true colour, the coming election will expose AIADMK and EPS will permanently find his place in Tamil Nadu politics like Chandrababu Naidu in Andhra Pradesh.

Be vigilant, Bharat: A financial storm is brewing fast

onebharat
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Be vigilant, Bharat: A financial storm is brewing fast

Preface

As the dumping of US treasury bonds has started in full swing, now by China and by Japan later this year, the global financial system is heading for a fatal car crash. A huge sell-off of these bonds will lead to the US losing its “reliable investment destination tag” and getting lesser investments from the rest of the world.

This leads to the federal government finding it difficult to feed its USD 31+ trillion debt-ridden economy. Ironically, every country other than the US is in deep trouble, especially the ones that have large investments in the US (especially the real-estate and tech sectors) or the ones that have substantial amounts of USD as forex reserves.

History

Recall the 2008 global financial crisis. If you look deeper into the background, the actual crisis, and the follow-up together, the actual damage was done to the Euro. The Eurozone debt crisis of 2008-12 has “almost” permanently damaged the Euro system.

Similarly, relooking the Mexican Peso crisis and the Asian financial crisis, the US financial policies (run by third parties other than the Federal Reserve) have always damaged everyone other than the US. Unfortunately, the recent example (COVID-19) is the People’s Republic of China. A closer look at the current Chinese financial situation would confirm that it is at a near-collapse.

Current Scenario

If the proposed dedollarization comes to reality (there is a high probability though), I have a strong feeling that the US is going to pass this problem too to the rest of the world. To be realistic, this is not because the US wants to do to all of us, but as global reserve currency, the USD has many stakeholders (not just the Federal Reserve) that dictate its fate. This time, the shock will be felt by the whole world (including the US but excluding Russia).

Message to PMO India 

As a neutral non-right and certainly non-left person, I admit to admire Prime Minister Modi and his Cabinet for the way they have been running the country (especially after COVID-19). Looking at the robust financial policies we have been witnessing in the past few years, I am most impressed with the finance minister.  I am sure the Government of India is well-prepared for this storm.

I have some suggestions for the union government that may come in handy in maintaining order in the country while waiting for this storm to pass.

  1. Work closely with various departments of the US government, the World Bank and the IMF
  2. Extend the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) for at least one more year till the end of 2024
  3. Buy the excess Russian wheat grain as soon as possible
  4. Attend to the middle-class population. Detailedly, a similar program to PMGKAY needs to be started for these people in the middle-class
    • Employed persons having annual income less than INR 700,000
      • Some kind of special system (voluntary) for incomes more than INR 700,000
    • Senior citizen that come under the middle-class category
  5. Ensure energy security by increasing oil storage capacity (including storage in host countries like Russia, Saudi Arabia)
  6. Some sort of arrangement for NRIs of the US

Credits

I would thank Dr. Ankit Shah and Mr. Abhijit Chavda for the ideation of this opinion piece.

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