Fact Sheet Geopolitics Misinformation Pakistan Policy Security

Ravi River, Expression of Bharat’s Identity

Ravi River holds a significant place in the cultural fabric of Bharat (India). Esteemed ancient texts such as Vedas highlight its sanctity in Hindu and Sikh traditions. The riverbanks are adorned with numerous pilgrimage sites and historic towns. A pivotal decision on water allocation was marked with completion of Shahpur Kandi Barrage, located on Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir borders, on the Ravi River. As of February 25, 2024, flow of water to Pakistan has been halted. This strategic move stems from an agreement signed in 1979 between the States of Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir. The agreement aimed at constructing the Ranjit Sagar Dam and Shahpur Kandi Barrage downstream to utilize the river’s water resources effectively and restrict flow to Pakistan. Foundation stone for the dam was laid in 1982, envisioning Bharat’s utilisation of river’s waters as per terms of 1960 Indus Waters Treaty. However, it is today, both Punjab and Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir reap benefits of Ravi’s waters, primarily for irrigation, thereby supporting farmers in Bharat in their agricultural endeavors. (Author Vivek Raina is Manager Outreach & Dissemination at CIHS)

Economy Education Hindus Leadership Policy

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Wins Hearts, Pitches for Prosperity in Kashmir

Kashmir people resoundingly dismissed notions of a divided stance; unequivocal support for Modi’s vision of a ‘Naya Kashmir’. Rahul Pawa During his maiden visit to Srinagar after having ended an era of discrimination by landmark amendment of Article 370, Prime Minister Narendra Modi encountered a reception that left critics and skeptics astounded. Anticipation for his visit had been building for several days with throngs of Kashmiris flocking to Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. Driven by a desire to glimpse Modi, a leader whose popularity has surged across what was once known as a turbulent state. This fervent public display signifies a pivotal shift in socio-political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. It marks beginning of a period that could redefine its history ushering in significant changes and reimagining Jammu and Kashmir’s future. This visit not only punctuates Modi’s magnetic appeal with people of Jammu and Kashmir but also signals potential evolution of a territory poised to embark on path to peace and prosperity. At today’s ‘Viksit Bharat Viksit Jammu Kashmir’ programme in Srinagar, people of Kashmir resoundingly dismissed any notion of a divided stance on Jammu and Kashmir sending a clear message to global community their unequivocal support for Modi’s vision of a ‘Naya Kashmir.’ In the event at Srinagar’s Bakshi Stadium, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha extended warm welcome to Prime Minister Narendra Modi who was cheered by thousands of followers and supporters joining online from all districts of Union Territory and around the world. Modi, engaging in dialogue with Viksit Bharat beneficiaries from several J&K districts including Shopian, Jammu, Kupwara, Srinagar, Ganderbal, Bandipura, Kathua, and Kishtwar, showcased inclusive reach of the initiative. Amid scenic backdrop of Bakshi Stadium, Modi then unveiled an ambitious slate of 53 projects, cumulatively valued at Rs 64 billion. These ventures go beyond just infrastructure projects; they are beacons of hope and engines of progress for Jammu and Kashmir. PM emphasised the transformative impact these projects are poised to have on the UT’s development trajectory. Modi’s visit was not only about projects, it was genuine urge to outreach to Kashmiris whom he addressed as his parivar or larger family. Echoing sentiments of Syama Prasad Mukherjee whose sacrifices laid the groundwork for this new vision of Jammu and Kashmir, Modi reiterated the symbiotic relationship between development in the valley and broader pillar of India’s progress. Modi also empathized on evolving travel trade making Srinagar, as a focal point in India’s burgeoning tourism industry pivotal to Bharat’s development story by launching ‘Dekho Apna Desh People’s Choice Tourist Destination Poll’ and ‘Chalo India Global Diaspora’ campaign. Reflecting on his visits post-2014, Modi shared, “Whenever I came here after 2014, I have always said that I am making all these efforts to win your hearts and I am seeing that I have been able to win your hearts. I will keep trying hard. This is Modi’s guarantee…” It was a moment of reassurance, emphasise his commitment to winning over people of Jammu and Kashmir through sincere efforts and dedication. Prime Minister Narendra Modi didn’t shy away from addressing the political landscape taking aim at Congress party and its allies, along with regional opposition parties for misleading people regarding Article 370. Striking a stern note, Modi highlighted how Article 370 had disproportionately benefited certain families in the Valley challenging the earlier prevailing narratives surrounding its amendment. Furthermore, PM announced the Valmiki community now qualifies for Scheduled Caste (SC) benefits with the Vidhan Sabha reserving seats specifically for SCs. Additionally, the Pattari tribes, Pahadi groups, Gadda Brahmin and Koli communities have been newly included in the ST list. Modi turned the spotlight on tangible progress emphasizing historic milestone of railways reaching the Kashmir Valley. This infrastructure development is not just about laying tracks; it symbolizes connectivity, economic growth and prosperity for the region. In a moment of optimism, Modi expressed his unwavering faith in the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. Their potential, he asserted, is the bedrock upon which the future prosperity and vitality of the region will be built. In a striking demonstration of political acumen and visionary leadership, PM Modi’s first visit to Srinagar has marked a turning point for J&K, signaling radical departure from its tumultuous past. The overwhelming reception that he got reflects a watershed moment in the region’s history, illuminating a collective desire among the people of J&K to embark on a journey of peace, prosperity and closer integration with the country’s developmental story. Modi’s initiatives, skillfully intertwining development agenda with efforts to connect on a personal level, have laid the foundation for a comprehensive socio-economic revival. Modi’s ability to draw unprecedented crowds in a region once beset by strife speaks volumes about his popularity and the shifting sentiments among its people. By directly addressing longstanding grievances and proposing a vision of progress and inclusivity, Modi has not only reinforced his political dominance but charted a bold path towards the realisation of a ‘Naya Kashmir’. This journey, underpinned by aspirations for stability and growth, could redefine the future of Jammu and Kashmir, setting a precedent for inclusive and development-driven governance. (Author is Research Director at New Delhi based non-partisan think tank, Centre for Integrated and Holistic Sudies)

Education World

605

Bharat Celebrates Women Power in Her Famed Growth Story

It’s time to celebrate Nari Shakti (women power) and remarkable strides made by them even as we celebrate International Women’s Day. From ancient times to present day, Bharatiya women have been an integral force in shaping Bharat’s rich culture and society. Their contributions span every walk of life and their indomitable spirit continues to inspire and propel Bharat’s progress. From farming, sports, technology to space odysseys, there’s hardly a field that women in Bharat have not influenced. In today’s age of Artificial intelligence and robotics, Bharat’s women are set to become “drone didi’s” (A sister that can operate drones) in rural Bharat. The steady ascent of women in owning assets and their growing influence in the socio-economic realms of India is a development that rightfully commands global admiration. (Article is written by Triveni Kaul, a Professional Content Writer)

Business Education Technology

614

Drone Didis to Revolutionize Bharat’s Farm Sector

Bharat has moved with purpose in spread of drones to revolutionize her huge farm sector that’s key to self-sufficiency model, feed 1.4 billion people and provide agriculture products and services globally. Having adopted drones consciously over last one decade, these flying objects mark significant advancement in agricultural output and modernizing farming processes. This creative plan is a big step towards using modern technology to solve long-standing issues in the agriculture sector that’s integral to Bharat’s way of life. Conventional agricultural spraying techniques that rely on physical labour or heavy gear lifting are time-consuming and less accurate in providing farm nutrients, soil supplements and water apart from spray of pesticides etc. Indian government has adopted use of drones in agriculture and related services to transform crop management and protection in light of constraints associated with physical handling of farm nutrients and pesticides. Modern spraying technology is being used on drones to cover huge tracts of fields with previously unheard-of precision and speed. These unmanned aerial vehicles are gradually taking the place of the labour-intensive and ineffective hand spraying method. Capacity of drone sprayers to reach difficult-to-get locations such as steep terrain or heavily forested areas, which are difficult for traditional machinery or labour is one of its main advantages. These drones provide optimal resource utilization and minimize waste by accurately targeting crops with necessary nutrients, herbicides or insecticides. This promotes sustainable farming practices. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) outfitted with cutting-edge sensors and GPS technology can apply pesticides, herbicides, and fertilisers with unmatched precision and speed as well. Farmers can target particular portions of their fields with drone sprayers, minimizing resource waste and lessening environmental effect. Furthermore, farmers may concentrate on other key facets of agriculture because of the effectiveness of drone operations, which saves them a significant amount of labour and time. The drone sprayer plan has been widely praised for its potential to take Bharat’s agriculture to next level. Farmers that use this technique can increase crop yields, maximise resource usage and help improve their standard of living. Drone usage also supports India’s commitment to sustainable agriculture which lessens negative consequences of conventional farming methods while boosting eco-friendly solutions. Use of drone sprayers is expected to help millions of Indian farmers with a number of urgent problems. The advantages are numerous, ranging from lowering danger of chemical exposure for workers to minimizing environmental contamination brought on by overuse of pesticides. Furthermore, farmers benefit greatly from the increased efficiency that drones provide in terms of cost savings which eventually strengthens their financial security. Nonetheless, there are certain drawbacks to drone technology’s broad use in agriculture. Concerns including licensing processes, legal frameworks and cost must be addressed to guarantee easy integration and accessibility for farmers from a range of socioeconomic backgrounds. Policymakers, technology companies and other agricultural stakeholders must work together to tackle these challenges. The broad use of drone sprayers can be facilitated by cooperative projects that provide financial support, training and awareness-raising which could spark a paradigm shift in Indian agriculture. Most stakeholders in the farm sector will have to work in unison to adopt drones like other technologies. With the drone sprayer plan, Bharat is demonstrating its commitment to using innovations for sustainable development as it sets off on this revolutionary journey. In several other sectors as well, drones are being increasingly deployed to deliver pharmaceutical products and tackle life threatening emergency situations. India is positioned to usher in a new era of agricultural prosperity by embracing technology-driven solutions, empowering farmers, and promoting economic growth while protecting the environment for future generations. Drones for farm development Thanks to development of drone technology, India’s agriculture sector has undergone a spectacular revolution in recent years. These unmanned aerial vehicles are strong instruments that are changing how farmers manage their crops and nurture their land; they are not just futuristic gadgets. Drones have made a major contribution to Indian agriculture in the form of crop monitoring and management. Drones with cutting-edge cameras and sensors fly over huge stretches of farmland, taking high-resolution pictures that provide vital information on crop health, insect infestations, and soil conditions. With the use of this real-time data, farmers are better equipped to optimize their techniques for fertilization, irrigation, and pest management, which ultimately increases yields and minimises resource waste. Drone technology is also revolutionising farming techniques nationwide with precision agriculture. Drones optimise production by precisely directing inputs such as insecticides, fertilisers, and water, hence reducing waste and negative environmental effects. This accuracy is crucial for maintaining sustainable farming techniques for future generations in a nation where agricultural resources are becoming scarce. Drones are also excellent at large-scale mapping and surveying, giving farmers access to precise land-use surveys and maps. Better land management, crop selection and resource allocation are made possible by this capacity, which is especially important in India’s several agro-climatic zones where soil conditions vary greatly. Drones have advantages over traditional farming methods. Drones prove to be invaluable in hard-to-reach areas where conventional machinery is unable to operate. These flying marvels bridge the gap between farmers and their fields with their unprecedented efficiency and accessibility, whether they are monitoring crops or delivering necessary supplies. Drones are also essential for disaster management since they can quickly assess crop damage following natural disasters like floods or droughts. Drones minimize losses and aid recovery process by facilitating rapid response measures through the provision of precise and timely information. Overall, drone technology has the potential to revolutionize agriculture in Bharat by providing innovative solutions to challenges faced by farmers and enhancing efficiency and sustainability of agricultural practices. However, coordinated efforts are required to guarantee affordability, accessibility and appropriate legal frameworks in order to fully reap its benefits. Drone technology has the potential to take Indian agriculture to new heights of wealth and sustainability if given the proper backing and funding. Drone Didis to helm farm reforms Under the ‘Namo Drone Didis’ scheme announced by Bharat’s government on November 30, women in 15,000 self-help groups would be trained and

Hindus Human Rights Policy Security

588

Situational Analysis – Indian Students under attack: US should review, revisit & revamp governance norms to ensure their safety

Rohan Giri Indian students have strong inclination to pursue higher education opportunities overseas which is not a one-sided phenomenon. Foreign colleges and universities are also diversifying their curriculum, educational opportunities, job chances, commitments and declarations to attract Indian students. In recent years, America has consistently been most preferred country for Indian students seeking education with international exposure. In 2021, more than 107,000 students of Indian origin were enrolled in American institutions for higher education. This number climbed to 269,000 in 2022–2023 academic year. America has highest number of Indian students and is the top pick for international students from many countries. Enrolments at American institutions has increased by almost 35 percent this year. Given the rising numbers, it is crucial to understand the students’ status, safety, advancement and their impact on the American economy and infrastructure. This situational study will provide insights into benefits America accrues from Indian students and what Indian students are getting in return! (Rohan is a journalism graduate from Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) New Delhi, and Manager Operations at CIHS.)

Human Rights Policy Security

602

‘Army Out’ Mandate By The Pakistani People

The adage, ‘Pakistan Army is the only army in the world that has never won a war but has never lost an election’ seems poised to manifest yet again. Yet the people’s mandate is unequivocally clear: Army Out. Rahul Pawa Pakistan stands at a critical juncture in its political history, marked by rapid developments and significant electoral ambivalence. On February 8, the country held elections for its 16th National Assembly amidst large-scale allegations of pre-poll rigging and widespread electoral fraud. Despite these challenges, independent candidates backed by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), founded by Imran Khan, emerged as the leading force, securing nearly 33 million votes despite its jailed founder facing corruption convictions and an ten year ban on holding public office. As the elections unfolded in Pakistan, PTI-backed candidates faced severe repression of political activities, criminalisation of affiliations with PTI, systemic hindrances, and efforts to sideline the party. Nonetheless, it secured 101 seats in the 266-member national legislature and more than 85 percent of the seats in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, signalling a clear, long held mandate against the Pakistan Army’s involvement in politics. However, the adage “The Pakistan Army is the only army in the world that has never won a war but has never lost an election” seems poised to manifest yet again. Despite trailing in the electoral polls, the Pakistan Army-backed Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), founded by Nawaz Sharif, and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), founded by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and currently led by his grandson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, are well on their way to forming the governing coalition, deepening the challenges for Pakistan’s 241 million people more than ever before. Recent elections in Pakistan have created a stir shaping broader discussion on democracy, governance, and the role of the military in the political sphere. The PML-N—PPP coalition being formulated in the wake of a hung Parliament, highlights the overbearing influence of the Pakistan Army in in political affairs. The revelation by Rawalpindi Commissioner Liaquat Ali Chattha, asserting the manipulation of election results to favour certain candidates, is not merely an indictment of the electoral process but a clarion call for introspection and reform within Pakistan’s political and judicial systems. The resignation of Commissioner Chattha, coupled with his allegations implicating high-ranking officials in the electoral fraud, paints a grim picture of the challenges facing Pakistani democracy. This apprehension furthered by Pakistan’s Supreme Court’s, as it deliberates on a petition for the annulment of the elections and the court’s decision to proceed with the case, even after the withdrawal of the petition, underscores the gravity of the situation and the imperative for judicial independence and political transparency. Internationally, the response to Pakistan’s electoral controversy has been significant, with lawmakers from the United States expressing concern over the allegations of interference and fraud. The bipartisan calls for investigation into these allegations, along with statements from the US State Department, reflect global implications of Pakistan’s political crisis. Pre-election remarks made by Ajay Bisaria, the Former High Commissioner of India to Pakistan, inject an additional layer of regional concern and scrutiny over the electoral process in Pakistan. His assertion that elections were more akin to a “selection than an election,” with pre-election engineering by Pakistan army to install a preferred government, underscores the apprehension regarding the integrity of Pakistan’s democracy and the pervasive influence of its military in political matters. This critique from a senators and a seasoned diplomat not only reinforces the global and regional voices of dissent and calls for reform but also amplifies the international call for a transparent, free, and fair electoral process in Pakistan is in benefit of the global peace and stability. This recent electoral turmoil in Pakistan transcends mere domestic concerns. It highlights a growing opposition to the long-standing and deep-seated interference of the military in politics, reflecting a worldwide demand for governance that genuinely aligns with the aspirations of the Pakistani people. The establishment of a coalition government, despite PTI’s substantial seat victories, along with global concerns about electoral integrity, marks a significant shift in the consciousness of the Pakistani populace. This shift is towards a mindset that values the nation’s true needs—transparency, accountability, and democratic governance—above the traditional dominance of military power. This movement represents the most forceful ‘Army Out’ sentiment witnessed since the creation of Pakistan following the partition of Earstwhile British India. At this pivotal moment, Pakistan’s choice will not only carve its democratic path but also shape its international persona and influence. The nation is caught between a fervent call for democracy, unencumbered by military influence, and the entrenched power of the Army within its political sphere. This clash presents a formidable obstacle to progress in democracy, diplomacy, and development, spotlighting the military’s indisputable impact on governance. Pakistan’s journey ahead is fraught with complexity, demanding a steadfast commitment to forging a genuinely democratic governance structure. The imperative for Pakistan is clear: to bridge the chasm between current realities and the democratic ideals of its citizens, paving the way for a future where governance reflects the true will of the people. (Author is Research Director at Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies, a New Delhi based non-partisan think tank)

Uncategorized

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Explainer: Jammu and Kashmir Sankalp Diwas

In aftermath of India’s independence and subsequent Partition of earstwhile British occupied India, Princely States were vested with the prerogative to decide their accession to either the dominion of India or Pakistan, contingent upon geographical coherence as per Indian Independence Act of 1947. This foundational principle was disrupted on the night of October 22/23, 1947, when Pakistani army along with its rallied tribal raiders initiated a forceful assault on the Princely State of Jammu & Kashmir. Subsequently, Maharaja Hari Singh formally acceded to the dominion of India on October 26, 1947, prompting deployment of the Indian army. Read More….

Geopolitics Policy World

543

India to turn third largest economy sooner!

Turmoil in UK, Germany & Japan, churn in US and China may not impact Bharat’s plans but global headwinds cannot be wished away K.A.Badarinath Three significant developments were reported in last couple days. All the three relating to economy are intrinsically linked and have long lasting impact globally. Japanese economy contracted for two consecutive quarters ending 2023 and reported recession. Embattled United Kingdom has also officially shifted into recession hit zone after last two quarters of 2023. This has had its immediate impact. Japan moved to fourth position in global economic sweepstakes while Germany moved up the rankings to third place. All these were prominently reported in last two days thereby leading to questions on Indian economy’s future as we head for another Lok Sabha elections in next two months. Firstly, United Kingdom moved from stagnation to recession after economic contraction of 0.1 per cent (July – September 2023) and 0.3 per cent (October – December 2023). Loss of appetite for goods and services leading to negative consumer sentiment and political slugfest between Tories and Labour ahead of this year’s elections contributed to the recession that Bank of England and analysts prefer to term as ‘technical’. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak however is gung-ho about the prospects going forward. Secondly, the curious case of Japan needs significant explanation. Aging population, Negative growth in its numbers for nth year, scarcity of workers impacting output to Yen’s valuation vis-à-vis the US greenback have been identified as major factors. Japan’s economy shrank by 3.3 per cent (July – September 2023) and 0.4 per cent in October – December 2023. Yen depreciation has impacted valuations across the spectrum. During last one year or more, Yen has reported depreciation of 20 per cent against major currencies while its 30 per cent against US dollar. On October 20, 2022, Yen slipped to its worst levels at 150 as against US $. In the last one week, it has been hovering around 104.7 – 105 against the US dollar. Yen depreciation vis-à-vis US dollar is significant given that Japan imports big from United States both food and energy products. Thirdly, Germany moving in as third biggest economy at $ 4.55 trillion as against $ 4.19 trillion of Japan is significant for more than one reasons. While Yen’s continued depreciation played a big part in Japan’s GDP, Germany’s performance on economic front has been modest while dealing with its labour issues, human resources shortages and euro valuations. German economy has had contracted by 0.3 per cent in 2023 while analysts expect a modest positive growth of 0.3 per cent in 2024 followed by 1.2 per cent in 2025. Trade driven recovery may be expected in Germany. But, fingers are crossed given the demand slump internationally and production woes in Germany. There’s a fourth factor that’s discussed intermittently and rather in subdued voices. US, the largest economy, seems to have avoided recession in 2023 with a soft landing and there’s likelihood of slipping into contraction mode this year. Some do suggest that US economy was already on decline owing to high inflation, retail prices though officially there’s no word on it as of now. Fifth big factor is China that has gone through a lot in last several months over a year. Chinese economy, the second largest globally, may expand by 4.6 per cent in 2024 and 4 per cent in 2025. Where does it leave the dragon economy in the Year of Dragon that foresees everything good? Protracted Covid related restrictions have subdued the Chinese economy under President Xi Jingping though officially the economy expanded 5.6 per cent in 2023. International Monetary Fund does not believe these figures and it has its own data points that estimate a much lower expansion. In this backdrop, what happens in India will be more than interesting to watch for both Indians and global populace looking for a straw of support in their struggle to counter the global downturn on economic front. With El Nino receding and monsoon forecast being very positive, India will continue to be the ‘brightest star’ with 6.5 – 7 per cent growth. Apart from being the fastest growing economy, India induced expansion is bound to keep the tide on positive side globally. However, global headwinds cannot be wished away. Russia and Ukraine war is not coming to an end any time now while the second bloody conflict between Hamas and Israel gets only worse. Shipping lines on international waters especially in the Red Sea are impacted thereby safe movement of vessels has been constricted. Also, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has established its own track record, worked independent of Federal Reserve and European Central Bank on the monetary policy issues. Continued strong domestic consumption, expansion in goods & services output coupled with healthy capital inflows – both domestic and foreign – will only keep the Indian economic wheel on even keel. In this backdrop, stable and strong political dispensation lends strength to argue that overtaking both Japan and Germany to become third largest economy globally by 2027 or a wee bit earlier is credible. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has promised within and outside Parliament that Bharat will be third largest economy in his third term with over $ 5 trillion valuation. Strong fundamentals and resilient economic order coupled with a reformer in Prime Minister Modi would help hasten the process. If global upturn happens in next few years as estimated by some economists, then India’s place under the Sun is assured sooner than later. (author is Director & Chief Executive with New Delhi based non-partisan think-tank, Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies)

Disinformation Hindus Human Rights Judiciary Media Misinformation Security

634

Sabarmati Express Carnage Brushed Under Rug by Fanatics

It has been 22 years since Islamic fanatics attacked Sabarmati Express train and burnt down 58 Hindu pilgrims within the train’s S-6 and S-7 coach. After recent pran pratishtha of Ram Lalla recently, it’s imperative to debunk misleading narratives surrounding the attack on Ram devotees. Rohan Giri On the morning of February 27, 2002, Sabarmati Express, on its way to Ahmedabad, came to an abrupt halt at the Phalia signal that is located within a Muslim slum covering both sides of the railway track. A person on board the train applied the emergency brake, bringing the train to a halt. Upon the train’s stoppage, shouts of “Maro, Kapo (kato), Badhane Jalavi Do (Burn them all)” resonated sounded from all sides. While the passengers were in deep sleep, they were abruptly awakened upon hearing uproar. To their horror, they discovered that a multitude of thousands had encircled the train with explicit intention of causing harm to them. Who comprised the individuals in this assemblage? What was the motivation behind these individuals’ determination to commit murder? What discourse did the foreign media attempt to generate? These questions should arise in minds of every individual, as this incident was not merely a train fire. It resulted in tragic death of 58 innocent Hindus leading to an unforgettable event in the history of western Indian state, Gujarat. (Rohan is a journalism graduate from Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) New Delhi, and Manager Operations at CIHS.)

Geopolitics Hindus Human Rights Leadership World

580

Beyond Brick and Mortar!

Opening of magnificent Hindu mandir in Abu Dhabi mark tectonic shift in India – UAE friendship that’s transcended commercial, diplomatic & strategic issues BAPS Hindu Mandir that rose majestically in Abu Dhabi is a symbol of Middle Eastern tolerance of different faiths and cross-cultural mosaic. This architectural wonder represents harmony and understanding across cultures and is much more than just a place of worship. When Pramukh Swami Maharaj visited United Arab Emirates in 1997, he floated the idea of building a temple in Abu Dhabi that would unite two “countries, closer together by cultures, and religions.” This is how journey to the temple began. In August 2015, UAE government declared that land for a Hindu temple (mandir) would be provided in Abu Dhabi. The land was gifted for mandir (temple) by Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan who was then crown prince of Abu Dhabi & Deputy Supreme commander of UAE Armed force.

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