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‘Terror is anti-humanity’

Bharat’s strategic independence was displayed while it rejected Hamas terror on Israel but extended support to free, viable Palestine with a message to friends & foes alike K.A.Badarinath Strategic independence has been the key to Bharat’s foreign policy formulation while engaging with global powers. And, furthering Bharat’s offensive and defensive interests is primacy to this policy. Globally, zero tolerance to expansionist, jingoistic political thought and rejecting every form of terror irrespective of caste, creed, gender, region, religion, faith and colour is something Bharat feels strongly about. Concept of ‘Vasudaiva Kutumbakam’ – entire humanity as one big global family – has been the corner stone to Narendra Modi government’s engagement internationally in last nine years. These three basic tenets of foreign policy have worked reasonably very well when Bharat stayed away from joining the pro or anti-Russian fronts. Instead of joining the NATO forces blindly or going Russia way whole hog, Bharat espoused its own line. Strategic independence in thought and actions saw Bharat condemning the violence and bombardment by Russian forces that invaded Ukraine. Bharat did not join hands with European Union or for that matter US to single out Russia. In the same vein, Ukraine was given all possible humanitarian assistance and extricated Indians that were stuck in the war zone. Such independent line is expected to deliver results for Bharat in dealing with Islamist terror outfit Hamas attack on neighbouring Israel, home to Jews. In a week, the conflict between Islamist terrorists and Jews has escalated into full war having adverse impact in the gulf region and beyond. War between Jews and Hamas terrorists is expected to heighten further with no end in sight anytime soon. It was important for New Delhi to get its act right in dealing with the situation given that her interests in middle-east are too huge and Israel has been a dependable partner in half a dozen areas. Within first few hours, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the Hamas campaign as ‘terror attack’ and condemned unequivocally in two tweets. Prime Minister Modi’s telephonic conversation with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu fortified India’s position against terror, terrorism and terrorists that wreaked havoc on Israel and Jews. At G-20 Parliament Speakers conclave that’s underway in New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi elaborated further and said ‘terrorism was against humanity’. Second part to Bharat’s policy on Hamas – Israel war was unveiled at a foreign media briefing this Thursday. India reiterated its decades old position for ‘an independent, viable and sovereign’ Palestine state that co-exists peacefully with Israel’ in West Asia. While Bharat does not tolerate, terror, terrorism and terrorist outfits like Hamas, it is not against carving out a Palestinian state. Drawing distinct differentiation between Hamas and Palestine is a significant point in Bharat’s Middle-East policy. This differentiation is conceptually and strategically significant vis-à-vis the Western powers and European nations. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar led foreign policy team seems to have sent out clear signals to both friends and foes alike by reiterating its support for Palestine state. The message from Bharat is straight and simple. The US and its partners in NATO cannot take Bharat for granted on the issue as was the case in Russia – Ukraine conflict. Coming out strongly in favour of a ‘free, independent and viable’ Palestine state and rejecting Hamas is also important given that Muslims rallied in country after country either in support of Hamas or advocating Palestinian cause. In the fast evolving situation, Bharat recognized her responsibility towards Middle East Muslims that seek a ‘peaceful’ Palestine state and at the same time stood like a rock with Jews in Israel. Bharat’s position is in continuation of its historic association with the Palestine movement. This policy has however taken twists and turns, evolved over the years in light of ‘terror’ outfits like Hamas posing serious threat to humanity. Bharat’s continued engagement with both Sunni and Shia dominated nations on political and economic fronts seem to have dictated her nuanced position. This policy also factors in the importance of aligning with Jews in Israel, US and Europe while rejecting Hamas ‘in toto’. By extending support to independent Palestine state via bilateral negotiations, Bharat has been pragmatic in finding lasting solution for peace in Middle East. It may not have been a cake walk for Bharat to evolve her position on Israel – Hamas conflict given her recent engagements with United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, players in the Gulf and North Africa including Egypt, Iran, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain etc. Even the Muslim world is divided in the middle on terrorist organizations like Hamas. For instance, UAE and Bahrain that are party to Abrahams accord with US have limited to extending tactical support to cause of Palestine and not toed the Hamas ‘terror’ line. Similarly, Saudi Arabia has been muted in its responses to Hamas terror. Egypt is not with Hamas. Jordan and Qatar have different positions vis-à-vis Palestine state and Hamas. Organizations like Hezbollah from Lebanon and Islamic State fighters may have extended their unqualified support to Hamas. Iran’s supreme leader Seyyed Ali Hosseini Khamenei is yet another significant figure that stood behind Hamas terror act. But, Muslim world as such is not united completely. Apart from the fault lines among Arab nations, Bharat being home to over 210 million Muslims – both Sunnis and Shias – cannot ignore the impact of conflict within its own minorities. Isolation and elimination of terror outfits like Hamas, ISIS, Hezbollah, Taliban or such religious fundamentalists should be the global priority. For this to happen, a common definition of ‘terror’ may have to be achieved internationally without ‘ifs and buts’. (Author is Director & Chief Executive of New Delhi based non-partisan think tank, Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies)

Uncategorized

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Chinese Puppetry on Show!

Probing charges of money laundering, peddling of Chinese propaganda by NewsClick is not suppression of press freedom K.A.Badarinath Noise on suppression of press freedom and free speech has not yet reached a crescendo. This noise has just begun in India with Left parties, their frontal organizations and anti-Modi political alliance partners going for the kill. Few activists from these political formations hit the streets on Wednesday protesting a probe against alleged China funded portal ‘NewsClick’ that reportedly laundered money to bankroll the dragon’s ‘propaganda’ vehicle. Portal’s founder Prabir Purkayastha and his human resources head were rounded up by special operations unit of Delhi Police after having questioned over a dozen journalists, consultants and later seized their devices for further investigation. Big question therefore is why all the noise on purported suppression of press freedom in India? Well, this is not the first time that such false narrative was peddled or reported in domestic and foreign media outlets in last ten-odd years. Two big charges against ‘NewsClick’ and its front-enders is that the organization worked as ‘propaganda vehicle’ for China. And, second serious charge is that foreign funds were routed through a millionaire businessman Neville Roy Singham to take forward nefarious Chinese Communist Party agenda in India. Well, only an in-depth investigation will bring out the facts and stick out separated from the organized noise of fringe Left parties that claim to protect, cherish and embellish Mao’s jinxed political thought. Firstly, is it a crime to investigate possible wrong doing by anyone concerned with ‘NewsClick’? The probe was launched by Delhi Police, Enforcement Directorate and other agencies only after having filed a detailed first information report against the accused on August 17 taking cognizance of ‘Chinese Propaganda machine’ related reports that appeared in The New York Times. These very political formations and self-styled proponents of ‘free press’ that hit the streets have had sworn by NYT on more than one occasion to hit out at the Modi government. Now, what’s wrong in investigating ‘NewsClick’ based on newspaper reports and Enforcement Directorate’s own research? The New York Times had pointed to a global web of Chinese propaganda that involved American non-profits which stretched from Chicago to Shanghai. This web as per NYT had NewsClick as an active participant. Now, why can’t the law enforcement agencies do their job of enforcing probity in public life, negate possible China propaganda campaign and stem laundering of foreign funds that made their way into ‘NewsClick’ during 2018 – 21 and used ‘against the Indian state’? Does this tantamount to suppressing press freedom? Or, is initiation of an inquiry anti-democratic by any stretch of imagination? It’s rather surprising that newspapers like ‘The Hindu’ and ‘Indian Express’ that were at forefront of investigating Bofors scam in early ‘80s and ‘90s editorialized the police action on ‘NewsClick’ as smacking of supressing press freedom. And, it is rather laughable. Crackdown against suspected crime by elements inimical to Bharat’s interests or exposing ‘NewsClick’ handlers in US and China cannot be equated with Smt Indira Gandhi’s decision to suspend basic citizens’ rights, impose internal emergency and curb press freedom in 1975 after an adversarial verdict of Allahabad High Court. Wouldn’t Ramnath Goenka, founder of Indian Express and Kasturi Ranga Iyengar of ‘The Hindu’ turn in their graves at the suggestion of curbing press freedom for investigating against ‘NewsClick’ management and their handlers? As in case of any individual or organization, don’t journalists have basic responsibility to submit before law enforcement agencies seeking to get at the truth? Making hue and cry of a probe may not drown the truth about irregularities at ‘NewsClick’. At best, NewsClick is a scrappy outlet that used invectives and propaganda to try and corner Narendra Modi government. And, it gained prominence only after The New York Times investigation linked it to a network that funded pro-China campaigns. Similar noise and public outrage was on show after BBC India operations were scrutinized for violation of Indian taxation laws. Tax sleuths assessment forced BBC to admit that it had under-reported revenues, profits and thereby evaded taxes. Reuters, The Hindustan Times and The Mint newspapers reported that BBC under-reported incomes worth Rs 40 crore to evade taxes. Well, income tax assessment of UK government funded BBC accounts was blown out of proportion and several of these very propagandists had jumped in to cite suppression of press freedom. There was no plausible explanation on how enforcement of domestic tax laws was same as suppression of press freedom. In the first place, big question was how did a foreign government funded media organization gather courage to evade taxes? Certainly, India is neither a banana republic nor subservient outpost of the erstwhile British imperialist rulers. When news laundry, yet another website were surveyed by Income Tax officials in 2021, similar charges of ‘intimidation and press freedom’ were heaped against the law enforcement agencies. Rule of law is what matters. Whether it is Bharat Samachaar or Dainik Bhaskar, media organizations need to be upfront given their distinct responsibility to readers, people that go by what appears in the media and the country. If thousands of websites, newspapers, TV Channels, social media handles owned by Indians, domestic corporates and foreign collaborations have been freely undertaking news operations, then where’s this suppression of press freedom? Seeking accountability is not equivalent to suppression of press freedom and rights. Newspapers, magazines and other media outlets in India like elsewhere have taken an independent editorial line in sync with their beliefs, understanding and assessment of a government, its policies and political ideologies. Editorial positioning of a media organization is distinctly different from resorting to irregularities, wrong doing, anti-India propaganda or joining flanks with the enemy. Let’s not equate press freedom with irregularities and anti-India tacit operations. Freedom comes with responsibility. (Author is Director& Chief Executive of New Delhi based non-partisan think tank, Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies)

Geopolitics Leadership Policy Security World

537

Maldivian Mirage, China Political Tightrope!

Maldives stands at a crucial juncture with President-elect Muizzu’s apparent tilt towards China signalling potential tectonic shift in regional alignments. While the allure of Chinese investments is evident, past patterns suggest that such engagements often come with strings attached, risking economic independence with potential threats to sovereignty. The historical bond with India rooted in mutual respect and shared interests, has ensured stability and growth for the Maldives. As the Maldives navigates its diplomatic path, it’s imperative to recognise the long-term implications of these choices. Over-reliance on China, given its track record, might provide short-term gains but could lead to long-term vulnerabilities, threatening Maldives autonomy, regional harmony and its historically enriched and etched relationship with India.

Disinformation Hindus Misinformation

682

‘Sanatan Dharma is a Way of Life’

Where are the limits to this culture of ‘Aham Brahmasmi’, exhilarating mode of realised, liberated being Oopalee Operajita Rahul Gandhi’s recent article on Hinduism/Sanatan Dharma (“Satyam Shivam Sundaram”, Indian Express, October 1) is, tragically, largely based on fear. In the first paragraph alone he uses “fear” and “frightening” multiple times. Why would anyone want to spend their lives recoiling in fear? A sense of overriding fear destroys everything else. The piece is obviously aimed at a certain enclave and by being circumlocutory and agenda driven and hence, Gandhi loses sight of the central tenet of his own essay. As a little girl in Rishi Valley School, the first — and most important — lesson I received from our founder J Krishnamurti’s teaching, was the importance of freedom from fear. I recall the very moment he spoke to us, in our small auditorium, about fearing the idea of a snake more than the snake itself. I was seven: It was a transformational moment in my life. Shashi Tharoor sends this article up on Twitter / X, gushing about its ocean imagery as if it is something novel, whereas, the ocean and water are dominant metaphors in ancient dharmic texts. The Taittiriya Upanishad, for example, describes the relation of five koshas (sheaths, in humankind) to water. The “Aquatic Absolute” (inspired by Vedanta), runs much later through Rabindranath Tagore’s writings as well. Tharoor also says on Twitter / X that there’s “nothing new to say in Hinduism” — a surprising statement, especially emanating from him — which is both meshuga and lacking in veracity. I read from the Upanishads, the Vedas, the Valmiki Ramayana, and the Puranas, almost each day — and the limitless wealth in them is as vast as the universe. It is ironic that Rahul Gandhi comes up with this article when he has been conspicuously silent these many weeks, as his party’s coalition partners have mutilated the Sanatan Dharma, without remotely understanding it. Mum has been his deafening word. Some duplicitous leaders have ferociously attacked the Sanatan Dharma, both in India and, reprehensibly, on foreign shores, on many occasions, for the sake of appeasement — the hypocrisy is galling, but predictable. What’s driving Gandhi’s current janeudhari agenda? And would it be conflated with the forthcoming state elections? Sanatan Dharma is certainly a culture, an unbroken civilisational reality, and richly felt experience; because a culture is a way of life, a cultivation of the treasured self, and larger than any set of religious prescriptions. For millennia, this dharma has valorised the knowledge of the self (the atman), which the great sage Yajnavalkya views as identical to Brahman, or consciousness. We don’t swim in the oceans and, concomitantly, fear sinking — we swim to merge with the ocean, let our spirits sing, and set ourselves free. Rivers are, as individual souls (atman), merging into the supreme soul of the ocean of the immortal Brahman, (Mundaka Upanishad 3.2.8). Brahman has also been defined as “the creative principle which lies within the whole universe”. What’s to fear in that? And where are the limits to this culture — this exhilarating mode of realised, liberated Being (Aham Brahmasmi)? Nobody owns the Sanatan Dharma; but it has an ancient history, astounding intellectual rigour and richness, and a land of origin. It repeatedly alludes to the many, equally valid, paths to the Truth. But, kudos and gratitude to those who use their goodness and understanding to prevent it from being mauled by frequent, feral attacks from troglodytes. I recall a passage from an Upanishad: Tatha vidvan namah-rupad vimuktaha/Parat-param purusham upaiti divyam [The knower of Brahman casts aside all names and forms, and attains to the Supreme Being (Energy)], which is above all conceivable divinities in the cosmos. Thus, the Supreme Being becomes our whole. (Author has been a distinguished fellow at Carnegie Mellon University since 1990. She is a global advisor on public policy, communication, and international relations. This write up first appeared in The Indian Express)

Disinformation Geopolitics Misinformation Policy Security

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Canada’s Darkening Horizon: Red Flags and Alarming Trends

The dynamics between India and Canada are treading on thin ice, revealing a landscape where Canada’s interests seem to be diverging significantly from Prime Minister Trudeau’s actions and statements. It’s crucially morphing into a “Canada versus Trudeau” scenario, highlighting an urgent call for a recalibration of Canada’s stance. Dive deeper into the unfolding scenario and explore potential resolutions in CIHS special report on “Canada’s Darkening Horizon: Red Flags and Alarming Trends”

Disinformation Geopolitics Misinformation Pakistan Policy Security

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Justin Trudeau on a Sticky Wicket!

Khalistani terror links, snapping ties with Bharat, ignoring bread and butter issues, dissent within ruling party may not help Canadian PM secure a fresh mandate Dr Amrit Pal Kaur Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made explosive comments on September 19 suspecting Indian role in killing of terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2023. Outrageous as these comments were, they were damaging in equanimity. Trudeau’s statements within and outside the Canadian Parliament led to an unwanted and unwarranted diplomatic war with India that could and should have been avoided. Given that Trudeau is leading a minority government with support from parties like New Democratic Party, it seems to be his political exigency to comment on any and everything Indian. The myopic view of the present Canadian dispensation with regard to Indo-Canadian relations only puts a mammoth question mark on Trudeau’s acumen as a statesman. Instead of behaving like head of a leading country like Canada, Trudeau managed to cut a sorry figure for himself in global international political matrix. Big question, however is, why Trudeau jumped the gun and declare something which may not be true at all. Did the purported ‘Five Eyes’ intelligence sharing mechanism that includes US, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and New Zealand fail to deliver? The reasons are palpable. The drama in wake of his visit to Delhi for G-20 summit, much on the line of Shakespearean script, was peppered with generous amount of prejudice against India acted as immediate trigger for his outpouring in Parliament. It is more than clear that Trudeau is playing to domestic gallery with the allegations against India. As much as he wishes to make it an issue of international nature, it is essentially a domestic concern for Canada. As the New Democratic Party led by Jagmeet Singh, a sikh descent, is a crucial partner in Trudeau Government and Sikhs hold crucial votes in the Canadian elections. Therefore, his inkling towards everything Sikh is quite evident. There is clear evidence of Canadian Government’s support to extremist groups which have terror links as well as entertain separatist agenda against India. From facilitating Khalistani referendum to permission for vile speeches against India, the separatists have been given support short of recognition by the Canadian Government. The killing of Nijjar is portrayed as an assassination project of Government of India in the light of his terror history. Nijjar, an Indian citizen, had reached Canada seeking political asylum in 1997 after two failed attempts and with forged documents. In Canada, he eventually became the chief of Khalistan Tiger Force. He became the leader of a Gurudwara committee in Surrey, British Columbia in 2020. Nijjar was a deemed terrorist as notified by Government of India for his involvement in terror related activities in the country. This perhaps worked to Trudeau’s advantage and against India. However, there are other aspects that Trudeau seems to be happily oblivious to or conveniently ignored. For one, the Sikh diasporic politics in Canada is as much about the heft and influence among hardworking community and the leadership of a Gurudwara is one such accolade which contributes to a Sikh death might have to do with leadership of Gurudwara as well as the local politics of his region. Second, there are credible reports that Nijjar was involved in the terrorist activities in India including a bomb blast in Punjab. He is known to have visited Pakistan to meet his links there. Third, as much as Trudeau believes in assassination theories, India is a peace loving and rule abiding democratic country with a long-standing impeccable record that’s under constant scrutiny. Trudeau and his government do not seem to realise the dangerous nature of separatist or extremists driven politics. Clearly, they have not witnessed the violence and fear of terrorism on the scale Indians and especially people of Punjab have seen. Separatists came to India via the Canadian route as there are hardly any takers in India for it. Way too much blood has been shed and precious lives have been lost to the grotesque creature of terrorism that its knock on the doors of Punjab makes Punjabis fearful. It took decades to restore semblance of normalcy in Punjab and the separatist agenda seeks to undo it. Indian government’s fury is understandable given the context and recent terror history. No one in India wants to turn the clock back to vile 80’s. Peace, love and stability are preached in Sikhism and Sikhs of today seek to maintain it in their homeland. Trudeau’s petty politics seeks to threaten it without realizing the fragile nature of this calm. Fanning separatist flames may have grave repercussions in Canada and India well. Indians, of all faiths, who do not vouch the handful separatist fringe elements are being threatened under the very eye of the administration. Security of Indian Diplomatic corps is also compromised when the separatists protested outside Indian Consulate, distributed flyers with names of Indian diplomats and put up posters. These grave incidences not only present a weak figure of Trudeau Government abroad but also create a fearful environment within Canada. These developments propelled Indian government to temporarily stay on issuing visas to Canadian nationals. Whereas India is accused of violating Canadian sovereignty, Canada has not performed its duty to protect the Indians, their properties, businesses, jobs and Indian diplomats. Trudeau has conveniently resorted to a cover up of these facts. In fact, if not controlled, the separatists may even become a credible threat to Canadian security as well when this creature that Trudeau is nurturing turns to face him. He does not seem to realize that terrorism has no religion and does not harbour faith in humanity and no amount of sugarcoating will change its essential nature. If the hope is to fan a fire across continents will keep their hearth safe, then history has shown time and again that chickens eventually come home to roost. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has shown anything but statesmanship for petty gains in domestic politics costing the nation a

Business Economy Geopolitics Leadership Media Policy

606

Bharat pulls it off!

As G-20 President, Bharat achieved the impossible with New Delhi declaration, exclusive economic corridor to rival China, bio-fuel alliance & African Union induction to push for Global South. K.A.Badarinath Off late, the moniker ‘Global South’ resonated in these parts of the world with Bharat pushing for thrust on developing and least developed countries hitherto grouped as G-77. Security analysts in particular were not very gung-ho on having this group as the biggest focus of Indian G-20 Presidency given that the block had China with extreme and expansionist plans. But, if G-20 New Delhi declaration adopted by global leaders on Friday ahead of schedule is any indication, Bharat’s Presidium ambitions, strategy and thrust seems to have worked around ‘very fine balance’. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and tenacity carried the day contrary to western analysts’ summation that New Delhi leaders’ summit was a ‘wash out’ and there would be no ‘declaration’. They pointed to deep divide between Western leaders and China – Russia standing their ground on Ukraine war. Bharat and Modi seems to have achieved virtually the impossible with hundred per cent consensus on 83 paragraphs longish declaration that was approved by Presidents and Prime Ministers. And, Modi hit the gavel signalling a fruitful deal of ‘healing, harmony and hope’. This proved many Western analysts wrong as they seem to have under-estimated Bharat’s leadership, Modi’s affable nature and posturing at G-20 that accounts for 85 per cent economic output and 75 per cent world trade. Several commentators had seen the latest declaration as a ‘climb down’ for the Western powers giving Russia the leeway or letting it off easily on Ukraine. That may not be the case. The US and Europe may have taken a tactical one step backwards while consenting the declaration including key lines on ‘war in Ukraine’. In fact, New Delhi declaration is an extension of what was clinched at Bali in November last year. Finding ground to clinch a ‘declaration’, keep the G-20 relevant and kicking, could be one interpretation. Not having a declaration was perhaps not an option or in the best interest of the global economies that are dangerously struggling to keep afloat in aftermath of Covid 19. Thirdly, the declaration demonstrates Bharat’s heft to move world powers. Fourthly, personal bonding Prime Minister Modi established with world leaders seems to have worked wonders in taking forward an ambitious economic and development agenda that’s inclusive and ambitious. Fourthly, western powers seem to have not lost the message after last minute pull out of Chinese President Xi Jingping from New Delhi summit. In fact, this led to acerbic comments from US President Joe Biden that Beijing had the option of being a ‘spoilsport’. Fifthly, world community especially the Western Europe and US could not have ignored finalizing a roadmap to pressing issues like poverty alleviation, transition to green energy, restructuring debt of several poor countries that have become bankrupt and digital public infrastructure and crypto currencies etc. Sixthly, Bharat stood like a solid rock in balancing countries, groups and blocks aspirations especially the G-7 and BRICS, Russia and China that led to virtual pulling apart of G-20 summit. Seventhly, let’s not forget that China got taste of its own medicine with announcement of Bharat, Middle East, Europe rail and roads spread economic corridor that includes United States. India, US, Saudi Arabia, UAE, France, Germany and Italy heads standing together to announce this huge infrastructure driven economic project is neither insignificant nor symbolic. It rivals the now jinxed Belt and Road initiative of China that pushed several developing countries into bankruptcy under unsustainable debt burden. The project envisages establishing rail, road and under-sea data connectivity lines from Mumbai to Western Europe running through shipping lines to Europe. This direct challenge to China comes at a time Belt and Road Initiative tenth anniversary is being celebrated by Beijing. Interestingly enough, the stakeholders in Bharat, Middle East and EU economic corridor will come up with roadmap for the project in 60-days along with funding plans. Apart from China angle, Bharat may not have to depend on yet another uneasy neighbour, Pakistan to establish over land and under-sea linkages with Europe. In the melee of Ukraine war centric conversation, induction of 55-member African Union into G-20 may have gone off very lightly. But, its significance is too huge to ignore. Bharat playing a key role in bringing African Union on board the coveted club is something to write home about. This is the first time that G-20 got into expansion mode after its formation in 1999. Most importantly, African Union will be a full permanent member of G-20 and equals the status enjoyed exclusively by 27-members European Union block till now. African Union’s induction into G-20 also explains India voicing the ‘Global South’ moniker in recent times. Yet another interesting outcome is setting up of bio-fuels alliance on the lines of International Solar Alliance which provides sharper focus to energy consumption transition especially in transport services and households globally. The 19-countries group is expected to push for shift in environment friendly alternative and environment friendly fuels in an effort to decarbonize economic expansion happening globally. G-20 Presidency, tactical positioning, hard play in diplomacy, soft showcasing of Bharat’s cultural, civilizational and philosophical connect with humanity apart from hard gains made from the leaders’ summit will ring in for long. (Author is Director & Chief Executive, Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies, a New Delhi based non-partisan think tank)

Geopolitics

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Akhand Bharat is underlying reality in the mural

Indo-Nepalese linkages have depth to handle contentious border issues, illicit drug deals, jihadist madrasas springing up big time! Vinod Kumar Shukla Traces of Indian culture and civilization go beyond Afghanistan in the west and Indonesia in South East Asia. More facts and revelations have been collated over time due to concerted research about length, breadth and its longevity. But myopic Indian media has the tendency of making an issue out of nothing and question anything and everything that glorifies Indian civilization. It’s all done not to scrutinize facts but put Indian government in the dock. Interestingly enough, self-proclaimed holier than thou Indian media failed to see Sengol as being integral to India’s millennium old cultural voyage and its handing over to Jawahar Lal Nehru in 1947 was termed fake history. Select Indian and global media outlets get divine and display false intellect in interpreting 2300-year-old depiction in a mural that’s part of the newly opened Parliament. This has given enough cannon fodder to China and Pakistan. India’s External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi was straight when he described the mural as an artwork that depicted the spread of Ashokan Empire. Bagchi took the position, “The mural in question depicts the spread of Ashokan Empire and the idea of responsible and people-oriented governance that he [Ashoka] adopted and propagated.” Bagchi rejected conjectures that the issue figured in bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart Pushpa Kamal Dahal popularly known as ‘Prachanda’ who was on a bilateral visit to New Delhi last week. But, India’s western and northern neighbours seized upon the opportunity to make mountain out of a molehill. Nepal’s opposition parties, some of them aligned with Chinese think tanks and Chinese Communist Party made every effort to cause mayhem on phone screens, social media handles and hijack the conversation away from Indo-Nepal issues. Apparent objections were on depiction of Lumbini, Uttarapath, Purushpur and Taxila on the mural in question as part of India’s Akhand Bharat plan. Social media was flooded with messages that opposition leaders asked the visiting Prime Minister ‘Prachanda’ to take up the issue with India to get the mural removed from Parliament. But, India insisted that the issue did not figure in bilateral discussion. Big question however remains. Is it not true that India and Pakistan were part of Indus (Sindhu) Water Treaty depicted in the mural reflecting India’s civilizational identity as Bharat? Can Indian forget Takshshila where Vishnugupta (Chanakya) was a teacher and assisted Chandragupta, Ashoka’s grandfather in uniting India? Lumbini where Gautam Buddha was born is Sakya Muni for many in India emphasising his Sakya lineage. And, this region formed one of the ten republics of [Akhand] Bharat during sixth century BC. No political boundary whatsoever was strong enough to restrict Akhand Bharat that had unique lifestyle and behaviour of every civilizational Indian. Reference to Uttarapath is as old as Panini’s Ashtadhyayi where he listed the kingdoms along ‘Uttarapathenahritam’. Pakistan can ignore these facts and consider its history to have begun with 1947 and remain in denial mode for cultural links with India. Pakistan’s tilt towards Arabic nations may not help as the latter view Islamabad with deep disdain. On the parallel, handful of Nepalese leaders denying this cultural unity is not only strange but unfortunate as its cultural connects with India is inseparable and alienated. When Indian Prime Minister Modi visited Lumbini on May 16 last year on birth anniversary of Mahatma Buddha, he inaugurated Kushinagar International Airport. It was meant to bring to focus cultural integration. Kushinagar airport would help tourists and pilgrims to get easy access to Lumbini contrary to misinformation campaign that India is on some imaginary expansionist mission. Lumbini and Kushinagar are the places where Mahatma Budhdha took birth and died respectively. Further, four-lane Ram Janaki path is being built from Ayodhya to Janakpur. A Buddhist circuit is drawn connecting Gaya, Sarnath, Kushinagar and Lumbini. Modi’s Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi has been an important seat of pilgrimage for Lord Shiva’s devotees. Also, Kashi has been the seat of learning and place of worship for successive Prime Ministers and Nepal’s royals. They were also associated with Guru Gorakhnath in Gorakhpur bordering Nepal. Ram Van Gaman Path Marg too has Nepal and Sri Lankan linkages while Krishna corridor would connect many cities. Cultural connect transcends political boundaries as former Maoist Guerrilla Prachanda appears to have overcome the dichotomy of his faith and political ideology when he performed Rudrabhishek at Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain. He gifted loads of Rudraksha beads to the temple. What binds India and Nepal is their Hindu identity, so each other’s security concerns are of paramount importance. Therefore, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval’s meeting with the Nepalese Prime Minister was certainly not a courtesy call. Issues like mushrooming Madarsas along Indo-Nepalese border, contraband trade, outlaws committing crime and escaping into Nepal apart from ISI operatives making a foothold on Nepalese soil have reportedly figured in the discussions. There is no denying that border issues continue to be in contention especially Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura areas that Nepal claims to be part of its territory. Both sides seem to agree that there’s enough depth in their relationships to handle these issues. But, one cannot ignore the Chinese Communist Party’s continued needling in Indo-Nepalese affairs. After mishandling1989 blockade aggravated minor differences between the two countries into distrust, China played an iniquitous role. Further, comprehensive Peace Accord in 2006 leading to end of monarchy and general elections, the Constituent Assembly declared Nepal a Federal Democratic Republic that had Chinese footprint all over. On the other hand, what went wrong for India was the erstwhile Manmohan Singh government outsourcing its Nepal policy to Communist Party of India – Marxist that had its allegiance to China. Whenever India and Nepal attempted at ironing out differences, China worked at torpedoing plans to expand its influence in South Asia. Fanning Pahadi versus Madheshi divide in Nepal was its favourite game plan. China supplied oil and arms during 1988-89 to disturb the delicate

Policy

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‘Swa’ to fuel RSS expansion drive

3S formula, Swadharm, Swadeshi, Swaraj, to add heft to its exponential expansion in run up to its centennial in 2025 K.A.Badarinath ‘Swa’ will fuel the largest Hindu centric organization, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh in its next phase of expansion as it heads to celebrate its centennial in 2025. The threesome Swa defined by ‘Swadharm (positive dharmic Hindu way of life), Swadeshi (self-reliance) and Swaraj (independence in true spirit) will act as spring board in its next phase of expansion to over one lakh units or shakhas in India. The ‘3S’ formula encompassing Indian identity has been prescribed as sure shot matrix to India assuming leadership role globally and ensure human wellbeing. While these three very distinct ideas were bedrock of India’s struggle for independence during foreign invasion over centuries, they will provide ideological fodder to attain the pinnacle on socio-economic, cultural and religious fronts. Big push to Hindu way of dharmic life that’s in sync with environment will support restoring the delicate human – nature balance that’s skewed owing to excessive consumption of goods and services. Even on consumption or production front, RSS seems to have relied heavily on domestic sources of both ingredients, final products, processes and workforce given its unapologetic and uncompromising commitment to ‘self- reliance’. This is expected to not only create new work opportunities in India but evolve the country to be a global hub for production of both services and goods to fill in the serious gap owing to disruption in supply chains internationally. True spirited independence in thought, mind, spirit, action and evolution of Indian society is seen by the Sangh as a sure way to lead the world. RSS seems to have found its inspiration from ‘swaraj’ campaign of pre-independence days to unshackle the country from colonial British imperialists of pre-1947 aggression. The 3S formula – swadharm, swadeshi and swaraj – are also seen as backbone to achieving ‘Vasudaiva Kutumbakam’, i.e. universal brotherhood and human wellbeing to mark India’s resurgence. This primacy is expected to be based on her eternal values system and build on the country’s G-20 Presidency defined by this very theme around, one world, family and future. Well, the Swadharm, Swadeshi and Swaraj postulation of the Sangh have come in wake of its already running campaigns on ‘samrasta’ (social harmony) and ‘swasbhimaan’ (taking pride in one’s self and his or her roots). RSS general council three-day conclave held in Pattikalyana village near Panipat in Haryana did recognize serious challenges of fulfilling basic needs for 1.4 billion Indian population, carving out opportunities based on Indian beliefs in modernity, achieving holistic development through judicious use of technologies and new models that were eco-friendly. If one were to go by RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale, strengthening the institution of family, swadeshi entrepreneurship and evolving the society based on harmony and fraternity will form the basis for New India shedding the Nehruvian model. During ‘amrit kaal’, 25-years ahead of India entering its centennial year in 2047, RSS has emphasised on strengthening systems in education, economy, social, democratic and judicial institutions to take the leadership role globally. Sangh with its hugely committed cadres and 3S growth song will work on five key fronts by forging social harmony devoid of religious, caste based or regional fissures and promote family values based on Hindu philosophy apart from pushing the envelope on ecological conservation. While the Swadeshi movement will get a big push, sensitizing the people on their civic duty will be taken up by RSS to bring about cohesion in Indian society. Population imbalance, ending socio-economic discrimination and reinforcing ideals of democracy in the wake of Rahul Gandhi’s comments in London is something that seems very dear to RSS as an organization and a force to reckon with. Equitable participation of women under its own organizational umbrella beginning with family shakhas (units) or congregations and society at large is something Sangh will work towards, going by RSS general council deliberations. Sangh has rightly come up with an accommodative stance on same sex relationships sans criminalizing choices made by individuals. But, it rejected the idea of legalizing same sex marriages as has been the case in over 100 countries. (Author is Director & Chief Executive of non-partisan think-tank based in New Delhi, Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies)

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‘Bharat to be a developed nation by 2047’

25-year roadmap to get there may be unveiled even as BJP-led Narendra Modi juggernaut gets ready to rollout seeking a third term K.A.Badarinath Twenty five years roadmap for turning Bharat into a modern, independent and developed economy with a large say in global affairs is the common theme that runs through both Presidential address at the start of Parliament’s budget session and economic survey for 2022-23. Both President Draupadi Murmu and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman did the honours in the colonial era Parliament building as they reflected Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s resolve to roll out firm plans for Bharat in ‘Amrit Kaal’ spread over to 2047. Evolving a fully self-reliant country sans poverty, prosperous middle class with youth and women at forefront have been envisaged by the Modi government that will allow fulfilling all humanitarian obligations globally. Focus on ‘unity in diversity’ in Presidential address also marks yet another assertion from the government that Bharat will continue to cherish, embellish and groom all minorities by faith, worship and sections of a larger Hindu society. This may perhaps be intended at demolishing a false narrative being constructed by few global outlets that minorities in Bharat are being hounded out or subjected to genocide. The roadmap to achieve the ‘golden future’ may draw inspiration from Bharat’s glorious past, freedom struggle and 1.4 billion people’s resolve. This is the line pursued by Modi government as it readies to draw curtains on ‘amrit mahotsav’ that marks 75-years of Bharat’s independence after having pushed back colonial occupiers. Presidential address and economic survey fine print that outlines the blue print for a ‘developed country’ is nothing short of a grand stand vision for Bharat joining the big boys globally as a developed nation. Both the documents proudly declare Bharat as fifth largest economy that would expand to $ 3.5 trillion in two months. The federal budget to be presented on Wednesday by Nirmala Sitharaman may provide more clues or offer different specs to attaining the exulted status of a developed economy. Economic survey has already talked about achieving 10 – 12 nominal GDP growth in medium term as a commitment and objective to taking India big on world map as second or third largest economic powerhouse. Both Presidential address and the survey simultaneously articulated the nine years report card of Narendra Modi government’s performance across sectors. Given that BJP-led ruling alliance will have to face the electorate in May – June 2024 seeking a third term, this report card serves as a ready reckoner of what has been done during last nine odd years. Similarity does not end here. Presidential address lists out the government’s achievements in socio-economic sectors thereby improving people’s lives. Concomitantly, the survey provides a lengthy list of economic reforms and fundamental change in structural governance brought in by the Modi government. Bringing transparency and openness into public life may be yet another theme point apart from weeding out corruption at different levels. Corruption is the big plank on which BJP-led Hindu centric formation assumed power with complete majority for first time in 2014. On the reforms front, both President Murmu and Finance Minister Sitharaman have listed Goods and Services Tax (GST) as a big success story in tax reforms. While the states still have issues on GST, revenue sharing formula and several hurdles in ending the fake bills, the reform is definitely a game changer given that multitude of taxes have been phased out. Economic survey for the first time introduced a complete assessment of how peoples live changed owing to improvement in social sector indices. On the other hand, President Murmu reeled out figures to reflect the on-ground change brought about. For instance, in digitized economy, Bharat has reported Rs three lakh crore worth transactions on the e-market place. Similarly, over Rs 27 lakh crore have got transferred into bank accounts of the beneficiaries in 300-odd schemes through direct benefit transfers. Over 50 crore people have been treated under Ayushman Bharat scheme and accessed affordable medicines from 9000 jan aushadi kendras.This led to saving of over Rs 80,000 crore that could have been forked out by people on health treatment. Over 7.5 crore households have got access to tap water. Under what started as an anti-Covid 19 drive over Rs 3.5 lakh crore worth food grains were provided to the poor and needy. Rs 2.25 lakh crore distributed as support to farmers. Out of this, Rs 50,000 crore has gone to women farmers alone.Over 36,000 hamlets of tribals have virtually been adopted under a PM’s scheme. 500 blocks seem to have got a facelift as ‘aspirational’ campaigns. Over nine crore women have benefited through self help groups while 70 per cent of small borrowers from banks were women. President’s address provided another 100 such data points to support the Modi government’s articulation on bringing about ‘transformational shift’ in people’s lives. This also makes us believe that quietly, Modi government is getting into election mode especially after the two days national executive committee meetings of BJP held in New Delhi. On the global front, Modi government may speak on two issues prominently as a sovereign outfit and as president of G-20 as well as SCO. A peek into tomorrow’s budget may provide more clues to Modi’s big vision statement.

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