Geopolitics Leadership

Is China’s paradigm on ‘mutual success’ real?

Beijing has to come clean on larger issues, shift in outlook welcome. India never lost its ‘eastern wisdom’ while engaging with Western partners. Rohan Giri In an editorial, Chinese Communist Party’s mouthpiece, Global Times on May 30 indicated a possible shift in its India outlook. For a change, it captioned the edit, “We morally, emotionally support India’s de-colonization”. This comment on inauguration of a new Parliament building getting rid of the British colonial re definitely reflects Chinese establishment’s intent to go a wee bit soft on India. It has also garnered the attention of leaders across the globe. This change of heart, if it bears out in reality, cannot be ignored. Pleasing gestures like this editorial as exhibited by China present an intriguing subject for examination. As per reports from Chinese embassy and consulates, over 60,000 visas have been issued to Indians visiting China in first five months of this year. Furthermore, Chinese missions globally have affirmed their readiness to grant more visas for purposes such as business, studies, tourism, work, and family reunions, should the need arise. Global Times editorial last week emphasized India’s commitment to de-colonization and self-reliance. It applauded India’s efforts to remove vestiges of colonial authority, such as renaming iconic buildings and limiting English usage. The article advised India to focus on its national strengths rather than seeking legitimacy through techniques and accolades from outside sources. Rational interpretation to ‘outside sources’ would be India’s multi-nodal foreign policy engagement with western powers. While congratulatory editorial in Global Times is in order, its caution against Western manipulation is old communist line seeking exclusive engagement with India. Global Times asking India to embrace the Eastern Wisdom is possibly a benign attempt to wean India away into its fold. Its emphasis on ‘mutual success’ of China and India is yet another line that many in India’s Left and centrist political discourse also subscribe to. The editorial does not mince words while warning India to stay away from US with the standard communist dogma that US was fueling enemity between India and China. In this context, there are big questions that Chinese communist leadership will have to come up with plausible and convincing answers. President Xi Jingping and his cronies may have to come straight on Galvan border mis-adventurism that led to troop’s deployment on either side of Indo-Chinese borders. China will have to offer an explanation on its collaboration with Pakistan on terrorism in the United Nations (UN) and mutual prosperity pitch with India which may not go hand in hand. Continued expansionist bids in Eastern Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh, opposition to G20 conferences in Indian state Arunachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, providing Chinese names to Indian cities and towns is something that China will have to justify. Can this be the template for China’s Paradigm of mutual success? Tsinghua University’s Center for International Security and Strategy in 2022 report on “Chinese Outlook on International Security” has toed a different line on India. The study has bracketed India on par with US vis-à-vis threat posed to Chinese interests. India’s threat to China has also been compared what was perceived in Japan vis-à-vis China even today. China has come up openly on its stand towards India rather than sending out mixed signals that confuse its communist cadres and their counterparts in India. Global Times editorial also said, “In Chinese society, few people believe that India’s economic and social development will become a threat to China. The vast majority of people believe that the two countries can succeed together. We hope India can demonstrate more clarity and confidence in its dealings with China and the West.” In last three years, India’s position on Chinese threat perception has been consistent. It has in no uncertain terms said on more than one occasion that threat from China has risen multifold. Global Times editorial exhorting India to stay away from Western manipulations has come ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Washington DC for a state visit later this month. China’s expectation that should not protect its defensive and offensive interests is rather unrealistic. India’s right to pursue an independent foreign and economic policy formulation, choice of friends in sync with its view seeking global peace needs to be respected. (author is operations manager at non-partisan think tank, Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies based in New Delhi)

Geopolitics

1.06K

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

Leadership Technology

557

Much ado about something

Digital India bill should democratize information highways, digital ecosystem, address stakeholders concerns & not limit benefits to a big few Prachi Mishra In a few days from now, Narendra Modi government is likely to come up with first draft of the much-awaited Digital India Bill. If one were to go by officials, the bill is intended at strengthening information technology, security and information infrastructure in India. The Bill, when finally adopted by Parliament and enacted, will complement the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2022 and Indian Telecommunication Bill, 2022. In last two decades, after IT Act, 2000 became operative there have been astronomical developments in technological innovation. To keep pace with these innovations, the act’s regulatory framework was amended. The IT Act Amendment of 2008 and IT Rules 2011 were rolled out to define cyberspace and provided ground for handling of digital activities in India. But, the Act was inadequate to address present-day concerns of cyber security, crime and do justice to privacy concerns of Indian people. Emergence of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Quantum technologies, Metaverse, Big Data, Block chain, etc has thrown up new challenges in the regulatory framework. Given the limitations within the existing IT Act, a separate act has been in the work for a few months to address the growing digital and cyber demands of Indian people. In this backdrop, India’s economic interests can be furthered when the technological development and innovation apart from related regulatory framework is aligned. With growing penetration of digital technologies and increasing vulnerabilities of cyberspace, there is a need to ensure India’s national security was primacy. Reportedly, Digital India Bill, 2023 is intended at catering to India’s rising aspirations and become a catalyst in her growth and development while upholding people’s fundamental rights and country’s security concerns. Given the delicate balance that needs to be achieved through the new framework, the expectations from various stakeholders may have to be enlisted. Firstly, the Bill may have to address ethical concerns that are emerging as a consequence of disruptive technologies. Technological development will have to be seen as being morally correct, legitimate, and ethical. For instance, India should be able to address and counter adverse impact of artificial intelligence like deep fakes and misinformation. The new framework may evolve a robust and holistic mechanism to address issues related to cyber security. In 2022, as per CERT-in data, there were over 1.39 million cyber-attacks on India. This roughly over 253 per cent more than suck attacks reported for 2018. Hence, the Bill should put in mechanisms to resolve high volume and velocity of these cyber-attacks seen across sector, be it finance, banking, security establishment to political theatre. Also, with highly disruptive Quantum technologies round the corner, the Bill must suggest ways to ensure cyber security in the new environment. The proposed bill may have to find solution to tackle the manifold rise in misinformation, hateful content and fake news that’s become the new normal in India. In last couple of years, big technology firms like Facebook and Twitter have been at loggerheads with the government on dealing with mis-formation on their respective platforms. The Bill will have to reflect a possible consensus of all stakeholders on dealing with misinformation, disinformation and fake news that’s rampant. The bill’s provisions should be aligned with innovation. At present, India’s patent tally is dismal and most technology is imported from the Western countries. Be it hardware or software, India’s patents fall behind big time. The Bill should give impetus and incentivize innovation in digital technologies. Additionally, it should augur well for all the stakeholders of digital ecosystem and not restrict the benefits disproportionately to a handful tech firms. The new dispensation may have to address issues like liability, accountability, and ownership of data and its usage. Of late, there have been cases where social unrest resulted in violence and arson because content guidelines for these platforms were amiss. Or, even the existing norms were violated. The Digital India Bill, 2023 will be discussed at a time when India has moved many notches above in many different fields of technological and digital innovation. Being home to 113 unicorns and third largest start-up economy, India’s innovation ecosystem is booming like never before. Also, with the Semiconductor Mission, the strong impetus on adopting digital technologies, and the National Quantum Mission in place, India is bound to grow steadily in the coming years. Stakeholders expect the bill to empower them, democratize the information high way and digital ecosystem, aid other relevant economic policies. India should ensure that all voices of the entire stakeholder ecosystem are heard and it is enacted in time. (Author is Research Consultant at Centre for Integrated & Holistic Studies, New Delhi based non-partisan think tank)

Business Leadership Policy Technology

564

Basking under the Sun!

India to hit a hat-trick as fastest growing economy, unparalleled transformation in nine years, per capita incomes to be $ 5200 by 2032. K.A.Badarinath For second year in continuum, India is the fastest growing economy globally with impressive 9.1 per cent and 7.2 per cent clocked in 2021-22 and 2022-23 respectively. Even with projected 6.5 per cent GDP growth for this fiscal ending March 31, 2024, India will top the global sweepstakes and hit a hat-trick. This means the moon for an economy that’s home to world’s largest population at 1.4 billion, an expanding aspirational class and the middle-income families that continue to move upward in the consumption and investment chain. From investors’ point of view, both domestic and foreign players would make merry given the healthy uptick in demand for goods and services within the country. This is significant as Germany has slipped into recession, top economies in Europe are on a downslide and the US continues to struggle out of a whopping $ 31.4 trillion debt crisis. The tentative deal between democratic White House and Republicans do not mean much given that President Joe Biden is in a tight corner. Prolonged war in Eastern Europe getting worse and Kiev’s drones hitting Moscow’s metropolis send out two firm signals. One, the shadow-boxing by big boys with Russia and Ukraine playing front foot continues to adversely impact geo-political and economic matrix. Secondly, there seems to be no abrupt end to this long drawn conflict notwithstanding peace overtures made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Its impact is bound to be significantly felt as the global growth figures are expected to trim to 2.8 per cent in 2023 as against 3.4 per cent a year before. In the melee, Indian stock markets being valued fifth largest globally at $ 3.3 trillion after US, China, Japan and Hong Kong is something that one can rejoice about. It only indicates the investment appetite of both foreign players and domestic retailers that yearn to dip into the famed India growth story that’s only getting meatier by the day. Also, the confidence that investors repose in our regulator, Securities Exchange Board of India to run the show with zero payment defaults apart from strong and stable central government that commands huge credibility politically and with economic stakeholders. Three prime numbers that stand out are services, exports and agriculture sectors contribution to healthy GDP growth beating doomsayers’ diatribe on economic mismanagement. Secondly, front loading capital expenses and big private consumption has fuelled the Indian economy. Gross fixed capital formation at 11.4 per cent was highest in over a decade and its share in GDP accounting for 34 per cent. Private consumption rose by 7.5 per cent and its share was highest at 58.5 per cent. Most important signal in the macro-economic numbers was the confidence within the economic managers of Modi government that inflation can be contained to four per cent going forward. Unexpectedly healthy GDP numbers have special significance for Indian government led by Prime Minister Modi who has led from the front in last nine years. This bears out in the American financial services Morgan Stanley’s report released on Wednesday on nine years ‘transformation’ heralded by team Modi. Reforms undertaken across sectors in last nine years including governance laid the foundation for enhancing the per capita income to $ 5200 by 2031-32 from $ 2200 reported in 2021. And, over 46 per cent households would earn anything between $ 10,000 – 35,000, nearly double the proportion in 2021. Most important is that capital expenditure and fixed capital formation is expected to grow exponentially as percentage of GDP and share of Indian exports double to 4.5 per cent by 2031. As pointed out by government’s economy managers, scams and corrupt deals that marked 2004-14 decade are a thing of the past. From lost decade to performing and transformative ten years is what even Morgan Stanley seems to have surmised in its detailed report. Fourteen quarters of runaway inflation and 12 quarters of decline in economic growth and industrial production during 2004-14, pre-Modi era stands out as it culminated to virtual financial collapse that was triggered by the housing bubble burst in US that burnt the world with its contagion effect. Change is order of the day and India has arrived leaving behind the dark days! (author is Director & Chief Executive of Centre for Integrated & Holistic Studies, a Delhi based non-partisan think tank)

Geopolitics Leadership

604

Naya Kashmir shines bright on global stage

Tourism, infrastructure development, rich cultural heritage, progress, inclusive growth, transformation & positive change defines ‘nature’s bowl’ Rahul Pawa The third G20 tourism working group meeting is currently underway in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), capturing global attention as it showcases India’s rich cultural identity and vast tourism potential. This three-day event focuses on promoting sustainable and eco-friendly tourism, with the aim of driving economic growth, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering sustainable development in the region. Amidst the captivating sights of unprecedented development and delightful interaction between the people of Jammu and Kashmir and G20 delegates, certain entities and individuals persist in propagating an unfounded belief that J&K is engulfed in perpetual suffering. However, the reality on the ground reveals a different story. J&K is currently hosting its first grand international event since 2019 after it was designated a Union Territory (UT) following amendment to Article 370 of the Indian constitution. This amendment empowered residents of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as Ladakh, with the same rights enshrined in the Constitution of India and the benefits of central laws enjoyed by citizens across the country. Hosting of this historic international event by Jammu and Kashmir stands as testimony to region’s progress and newfound stability. It showcases the region’s intrinsic, inclusive, and vibrant nature, highlighting its rich cultural heritage, tourism potential, and commitment to sustainable development. As international delegates participate in this event, they witness firsthand the positive impact of the constitutional amendment, dispelling lingering misconceptions and emphasizing the region’s journey towards a more prosperous and harmonious future. Furthermore, this event goes beyond mere tourism promotion. It also places emphasis on creating employment opportunities, developing infrastructure, fostering interdepartmental coordination, and ensuring government’s accountability to the people of Kashmir. Through targeted initiatives and collaborations, the event aims to spur growth, thereby contributing to overall socio-economic progress of the region. The event places strong emphasis on infrastructure development, recognising its significance in facilitating seamless travel experiences, enhancing connectivity, and providing essential amenities for both tourists and residents. The focus is on building robust and sustainable infrastructure that supports the growth of the tourism industry while also benefiting the local communities. Additionally, the event seeks to foster interdepartmental coordination, recognising that effective collaboration among various government departments is essential for the successful implementation of policies and initiatives. By promoting synergy and communication between different entities, the event aims to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and ensure the optimal utilisation of resources for the development of the tourism sector and related industries. Furthermore, the event underscores the importance of government accountability to the people of Kashmir. It aims to create a transparent and responsive governance framework, where the needs and aspirations of the local population are prioritised. Through open dialogue and consultations, the event seeks to ensure that the government remains accountable to its citizens, fostering trust and strengthening the bond between the authorities and the people they serve. Most importantly, this event goes above and beyond conventional tourism promotion by encompassing a multifaceted approach that reflects a holistic vision for the sustainable and inclusive development of Jammu and Kashmir. It aims to ensure that its people and communities thrive in a conducive environment, where their well-being and aspirations are at the forefront of the region’s growth and progress. Regrettably, there are individuals who persist in their unwillingness to acknowledge the positive transformations taking place in Jammu and Kashmir. However, their efforts are likely to falter when confronted with the prevailing reality on the ground. The G20 event in Kashmir, aptly named ‘Naya Kashmir’ (New Kashmir), stands as a powerful symbol that uplifts the spirits of the local population and sheds light on the remarkable progress achieved in the region. It serves as a testament to the unwavering resilience and determination of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who have embraced progress and growth as a means to overcome the challenges posed by terrorism and pave the way for a more prosperous and harmonious future. The success of the G20 event in Kashmir extends beyond its ability to showcase the true essence of Jammu and Kashmir; it also lies in its capacity to dispel the unfounded beliefs and narratives perpetuated by a few. This event uplifts the spirits of the local population, instilling within them a profound sense of pride and optimism. Despite the persistence of challenges and the dissemination of misinformation by certain individuals, the G20 event in Kashmir stands as a shining example of the transformative power inherent in positive change. Ultimately, the G20 event in Kashmir serves not only as a celebration of India’s rich cultural identity and the immense tourism potential of the region, but also as a platform to showcase the indomitable spirit, resilience, and unwavering determination of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. It sends a resounding message that J&K is not a region condemned to perpetual suffering, but rather a land brimming with opportunities and possibilities waiting to be realised. (author is an international criminal lawyer and director of research at New Delhi based think tank Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies)

Geopolitics Leadership

623

Kashmir on way to new vistas

G-20 summit next week will showcase India’s commitment to transform the valley into cradle of human peace, tourism and economic activity Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida showcased Hiroshima as harbinger of peace, fulcrum of development and civilizational connect by hosting G-7 summit. This high level global engagement happened 77-years after it was devastated by atomic bombs detonated by United States on August 6 and 9 in 1945 killing about 226,000 civilians. Change and makeover is law of life. And, Kashmir aligns perfectly well in India’s decision host the G-20 tourism working group next week in Srinagar. This provides perfect opportunity for India to showcase development, democratic transition, peace and tranquility brought to the paradise on earth in less than a decade. The decision to take G-20 to Kashmir may not be palatable to India’s adversaries that rake up non-issues. Showcasing Kashmir’s potential to become part of global tourism circuit cannot be missed by India’s friends and foes alike. Terror, islamist jihad and across the border meddling by non-constitutional actors is virtually a thing of the past as Jammu & Kashmir picked up pieces and moved on. Perceptible change that has dawned on Kashmir following the exodus of over 150,000 Hindus in 1990 is something to write home about. India’s decision to G-20 in Kashmir is part of its larger strategy to fully leverage its Presidency of the most influential global group this year and pep up the valley’s local economy and cater to upwardly mobile aspirations of the youth that have firmly said ‘no’ to violence, mindless killings in the name of jihad. The 200-odd meetings under India’s G-20 presidency have been spread to over 50 cities from Humpi in Karnataka to Siliguri in Assam moving away from the usual Delhi and Mumbai based engagements. Normally, cities spotlighted globally become big tourist destinations globally and that’s perhaps the idea in taking G-20 tourism summit to Kashmir. Let us not forget that Reykjavík, the capital city of Iceland turned into a global tourist hotspot after the US President Ronald Regan and General Secretary of Communist Party of Soviet Union Michael Gorbachev held their summit level talks in run up to nuclear power treaty between the two countries way back in October1986. Similarly Marrakesh, the western city of Morocco emerged as topline city for holidaying and tourism after it gave birth to the World Trade Organisation in 1994. Bringing new cities, locales and areas to global attention has not limited to leaders elsewhere. Historic summit level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jingping held in Ahmedabad after landslide victory of the Indian leader in 2014 has etched in the memory of global tourism circuit. In fact, as reports suggest, this gave idea to President Xi to host Modi in Chinese province of Shaanxi. Shaanxi also being the birthplace of President Xi’s father emerged as a regular tourist destination for both domestic and international travellers. From being friction point between India and Pakistan since 1947, Kashmir has moved on unrest and violence. India’s significant focus to restore peace and stability, political changes in 2019 has begun pay off dividends in the form of development, attracting investments, and enhancing tourism opportunities. On August 5, 2019, Union Home Minister Amit Shah piloted a proposal in Parliament to end Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and this also led to bifurcation of the state into two Union Territories. The amendment in Article 370 of Indian Constitution also turned out to be the turning point for positive changes and integration that paved the way for prosperous future, including economy, infrastructure, governance, and social welfare. Massive makeover of road networks, bridges, tunnels, and power infrastructure and enhanced connectivity with rest of the country is just one part in Kashmir returning to normalcy. Completion of the Zojila tunnel, the Ujh multipurpose Project and the engineering marvel Chenab rail bridge — the world’s highest railway bridge — are among major infrastructure projects that provided heft to transportation as well as unlock the region’s immense economic potential. Revival of grassroots democratic institutions, such as Block Development Councils leading to delegation of governance enabled people to have direct say in their affairs. This decentralization of power fostered inclusivity, accountability, and efficient utilization of resources, ensuring that development reached every corner of Jammu and Kashmir. While showcasing the development thrust, India may also go overboard to sell Kashmir as cradle of peace ready to host the international travelers seeking to find an alternative to Swiss Alps. Hosting G-20 meetings in Kashmir is also a tight slap on anti- India propagandists, jihadists and their handlers globally. G-20 tourism summit should be seen as just a beginning in transformation of the Kashmir valley.

Disinformation Hindus Human Rights Misinformation

533

Daily Mail Goes Bonkers on Leicester Violence!

An article titled ‘Violent ethnic clashes in Leicester last year’ by Abul Taher & Nicholas Pyke propagates agenda based myths far from reality First, the article heavily relies on unidentified “UK security sources” without providing specific names or verifiable evidence to support the writers’ claims. Lack of transparency in sourcing the write up raises questions on credibility and reliability of the information presented. The write up attempts to establish a false link between Indian political activists associated with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and ethnic clashes in Leicester. However, the writers have no evidence whatsoever to establish a direct causal link between political activists in India and violent and murderous rioters. It’s grossly misleading to attribute the entire chain of incidents to a specific political party or its members. The writers audaciously misquote Charlotte Littlewood, a research associate at the Henry Jackson Society, a think tank that did a detailed study on the Leicester violence. Littlewood clarified the context and nuances of her statements. As per her tweet, she did not believe that attacks on Hindu homes should be dismissed as mere “spin.” She expressed concern about Hindus safety in the UK who face unjust blame for political events abroad. Littlewood stated that while she found links between those who led the Muslim onslaught and criminal groups in Pakistan, she did not find any evidence of BJP / RSS links with Hindu activists that resisted the violence. She mentioned that she had not seen the evidence presented by The Daily Mail regarding BJP involvement between the cricket match and marches. Littlewood acknowledged presence of individuals linked to Pakistan in the clashes and highlighted potentially problematic nature of evidence suggesting BJP involvement, as it would demonstrate disregard for peace and security in UK. She did not believe that BJP “escalated” the situation. She asserted that her comment was paraphrased and tensions were primarily local, with foreign influence becoming apparent after the initial Hindu march, exacerbating anti-Hindu and anti-Muslim sentiments, particularly online, as per findings of a report conducted by the US-based Network Contagion Research Institute. She reportedly said that the article appeared one-sided and would contribute to perception of a violent UK Hindu nationalist threat. The referenced study by Network Contagion Research Institute (NCRI) sheds light on significant impact of malicious narratives propagated through social media and digital platforms, highlighting their purported role in instigating the unrest. The study identified false reports and conspiracy theories fueling ethnic hatred towards the Hindu community, perpetuating Hinduphobic sentiments and intentions. Influencers such as Majid Freeman, known for his vocal support of slain ISIS fighters and Al Qaeda utilized social media platforms to propagate and amplify these false theories that directly impacted unrest in Leicester. Linguistic analysis done by NCRI revealed a significant disparity in mentions of words “Hindu” and “Muslim” on Twitter, with “Hindu” being mentioned over 40 per cent more frequently. The Hindu community was predominantly portrayed as conspirators and aggressors involved in a supposed global project seeking supremacy and dominance. NCRI’s AI models identified that over 70 per cent of incitements to violence were targeted against the Hindu community while only 30 per cent were against Muslims. These patterns of reciprocal escalation are likely to continue unless social media platforms take proactive measures to address the misuse of their products, which contributes to on-street violence and aggression against vulnerable communities. The Daily Mail’s article heavily relies on unidentified “UK security sources” and lacks transparency, casting doubts on its credibility. The article showcases chronic bias against Hindu community and reflects the institutional prejudice of The Daily Mail. Additionally, the misquotations and misrepresentations of Charlotte Littlewood’s statements further undermine accuracy of the article. This baseless reporting perpetuates unfounded allegations and contributes to misinformation, potentially causing harm and perpetuating negative stereotypes about the Hindu community.

Disinformation Leadership Policy Security

540

PLA ploy in Nepal may come a cropper

Nepalese maoist leadership move to stop enlisting Gurkhas in Indian Army point to China’s dragon net cast wide to tighten its stranglehold Rahul Pawa Earliest reference to Gurkhas can be found in Hindu epic treatise, the Mahabharata. This poem tells the tale of Bhima, one of the heroes, and his encounter with Kichaka, a fierce warrior who was the chief of Kiratas tribe. This tribe inhabited present-day Himalayan region of Nepal and Kichaka was known for his strength and ferocity in battle. Bhim found it challenging to defeat him but he eventually emerged victorious and spared Kichaka’s life, accepting him as his ally. This encounter is believed to be the first mention of the tribe that later became popular as ‘Gurkhas.’ Known for their bravery and martial prowess, the term ‘Gurkha’ is derived from Gorkha district, part of Gandaki province in western Nepal. The region was ancestral home to Shah dynasty that was founded in 1559 by King Dravya Shah, a descendant of Rajput warriors from northern India. Gurkhas as we know them today came to limelight late 18th and early 19th centuries when they were recruited in British East India Company and later the British Indian Army. It is unclear who precisely coined the term ‘Gurkha,’ but believed to have been popularised by the British during the Anglo-Nepalese War of 1814-16. The term was used to refer to soldiers from the Gorkha district and surrounding regions that were recruited into the British Indian Army. Since then, Gorkhas became synonymous with Nepalese soldiers known for their fighting skills and reputation for bravery, who continued to serve both British and Indian armies. Recently, rumours were rife on Chinese Communist Party’s (CPC) plans to recruit Gorkhas into People’s Liberation Army (PLA). This renewed concerns over CPC’s influence over Nepalese Prime Minister and maoist ideologue Pushpa Kamal Dahal a.k.a Prachanda and his Communist -dominated Nepalese government. In the elections held on November 20 last year, Prachanda ‘s Maoist Centre secured third largest number of seats with 32 in the 275- member House of Representatives. Prachanda was sworn in as Nepal’s Prime Minister on 130th birth anniversary of Mao Zedong, who was a significant ideological influence on Prachanda. As per a report by EPardafas, CPC activities in Nepal spread far and wide after Dahal-led government took reins of the Himalayan Kingdom. CPC’s attempts to influence Nepal’s politics through targeted information operation appear to be a page from Chinese communist’s larger strategy book to whip up anti-India sentiment in the country. CPC strategy seems to be consistent with Mao Zedong’s historical “Five Fingers of Tibet” policy that was first articulated in his speeches during 1940s. The clandestine formulation was to “liberate” Sikkim, Bhutan, Ladakh, and the NEFA from what Mao perceived as “Indian imperialism.” On the contrary, CPC’s expansionist agenda seem to have led to providing financial assistance in order to advance their neatly designed work programme among Nepal’s 30 million habitants. Over the years, CPC floated or supported several think-tanks in Nepal through Chinese Study Centre (CSC) at Katmandu established in 2009. Thirty two such study centres came into being as part of larger design to set up one centre each in the country’s77 districts. These centres played a key role to provide ground research to push CPC aspirations in Nepal. In addition to teaching Mandarin, these centres researched in different subjects with funding support from China. One subject study was aimed at assessing young Nepali – Gurkhas interest and motivation to joini Indian Army. The study was also to evaluate financial expectations of Nepali youngsters from their stints in Indian Army. This provides perfect backdrop to Nepalese communist leadership request to their Indian counterparts for putting on hold Gurkhas recruitment. This request not only flummoxed the Indian army recruiters but also Nepali youngsters that showed keen interest the new Agnipath scheme. The maoist government justified its stand with the contention that Nepalese lawmakers were yet to discuss the ‘Agnipath’ recruitment issue. This request from Nepal government also provides a window of opportunity to CPC for enlisting Gurkha warriors into PLA. Big question therefore is if the Maoist led Nepalese government turning its youth as “force on hire” for PLA. For most Gurkhas serving as soldiers in the Indian army, it is not just about money, schemes for Nepalese people or the decades-old tripartite agreement. It is about a shared unique closeness and oneness of tradition and faith. Shared history, mutual respect and an inalienable link unite Nepal and India. This bond of combat brotherhood is maintained by the Gurkha troops who serve between the two nations. Nepal and India have had shared more than just this idea for thousands of years. Soldiers of Nepalese and Indian ancestry have formed a common relationship as Gurkhas and brotherhood that bonds them. Nepal and India relations go beyond contemporary disputes and conflicts with both countries sharing a distinctive tradition of anointing each other’s Chiefs of Army Staff as Honorary Generals. The Gurkha hat and Khukuri are not just symbols of courage and bravery but represent the brotherly relationship and cultural affinities shared by both nations. They won several gallantry awards together including the Param Vir Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra for their bravery and sacrifice. Indian Army and CPC’s PLA contrast hence becomes significant. In particular, PLA’s differential treatment of their own people and that of neighbours come to the fore. CPC occupation of Nepali land, attempt to sow discord within Nepal and luring the country into a debt trap have become points of larger public discourse. CPC’s actions in Nepal and its disregard for universal human rights and freedoms make it an unlikely recruiter for the proud Gurkhas. Nepalese people and Gurkhas will have to remain vigilant against attempts by foreign powers to interfere in its internal affairs. Decisions on Gurkhas recruitment must be made in the best interests of the Nepalese people and not influenced by external pressures or agendas. Gurkhas have served both Nepal and India with distinction for many years and

Disinformation Hindus Misinformation

559

Freedom goes hyperbole!

Not just freedom to write and report by media professionals, globally threat to live freely and practice one’s Dharma is under attack K.A.Badarinath “Freedom is the goal of the universe. Nor love nor hate nor pleasure nor pain nor death nor life nor religion nor irreligion: not this, not this, not this.” This was one of the most comprehensive definitions to freedom provided by revered Swami Vivekananda, India’s greatest monk, Hindu philosopher in a letter to one Church sister Mary Hale on June 26, 1895. Freedom to write, think, interpret and see life as such is the essence of human life. And, this freedom is all the more significant in the context of press globally that routinely is at the receiving end for having spoken the truth or exposed inhumanity. From Syria, Russia, United States, United Kingdom to European geographies, freedom to responsibly write has been constantly under attack with no reprieve for reporters of media outlets, be it print, broadcasting corporations, radio or digital networks. In the name of region, religion, caste, creed, sex and otherwise, violence in all shades and hues is perpetuated without reprieve. It happens more so in the trumped up liberal societies internationally. Discussing freedom on international press freedom day becomes also pertinent as on this very day United Nations took upon itself 30 years back to protect freedom for media to report fearlessly on happenings across the globe. Well, in these thirty years, globalization and corporatization of media that was hitherto a commitment and conviction to societies and communities has made discharging this responsibility all the more difficult. Cutting edge technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning and robotics has given a new dimension to media that’s real time, hard to regulate and many a time sans responsibility. Discussing freedom makes sense when it’s exercised with responsibility. Political establishments, security agencies and terror groups have many a time seen free media as biggest hindrance to achieving their ulterior goals. For instance, Neither President Xi Jinping of China nor his Chinese Communist Party been a great votary of press freedom. Given a single party rule, the rigour of communist regimes made periodic attempts to even restrict human thinking, behaviour, families or even procreation. Same is the case with another military style communist regime led by President Kim Jong Un. These two are classic cases of turning respective communist parties into family enterprise or solo. Even in the most celebrated liberal democracies, freedom to live on one’s terms is skewed. Otherwise, there’s no plausible explanation for hatred heaped on minority Hindus either in US, UK, Canada, Australia or elsewhere. Constantly being targeted either in Columbia, California or elsewhere like Leicester in UK does not guarantee any freedom to even live, practice one’s ‘Dharma’. In countries run by religious fascism of extreme variety exemplified by Taliban in Afghanistan, military establishment in Pakistan, grooming gangs of UK and IS run Caliphate in Syria, threats to freedom is too grave to even discuss, decipher or interpret in saner terms. Gone are the days that hailed liberty, democracy and freedom centric slogans in these very countries. Constant threats to life, living spaces and eking out an earning honourably has become the basic issue in most of these ‘liberal minded’ societies that lecture the globe on freedom of every variety beginning with media to religion. A quick look in the mirror would reflect realities of life in these touted liberal democracies that time and again taken upon them to ostracise others on these very issues. Periodic reports dished out by USCIRF including latest speaks about non-availability of religious freedom in India. While credibility of this report or the team that trashes India needs to be called out, does this organization even recognize what’s happening in its own back yard? Gun running and violence related crimes due to factors like skin colour, religious faith or even the physical build of an individual is something the ‘most liberal democratic’ leadership in US refuses to even recognize. As per a last week’s BBC report that quoted not for profit organization, the Gun Violence Archive, there have been 160 mass shootings in United States so far in 2023. This report also puts the figures for mass shootings at 600 in each of the three preceding years. While freedom to live fearlessly is under threat, press and media freedom is a wee-bit complicated in both UK and US where lobbies, technology companies and access to information highway determine as to what messages are delivered to readers or narratives woven in conversations that are completely slanted and uni-focal. Freedom to live and report is definitely under threat. Threat perceptions have undergone a sea change. There’s no way any group, community or Dharmic people that can live unhindered. This may have to be recognized by all stakeholders. A global consensus on achieving freedom on different planes must be achieved. Lip service to freedom is like lip syncing in music. It’s not real. (author is Director & Chief Executive at non-partisan think tank, Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies based in New Delhi)

Disinformation Hindus Human Rights Media

585

Is it outright ignorance?

Western media’s refusal to acknowledge India’s Progress and transformative changes should be brought to closer scrutiny. K.A.Badarinath / Neha Dahiya Why’s it that several Western media editors are anti-India in their stance? Many media friends from Western world are either outright ignorant, pursue an editorial line given by their top management or oblivious to transformative changes that have turned this country into bulwark against tyranny, intolerance and is bustling with multifaceted activity. The view from London’s West Minister or US Capitol Hill may not fit into what’s on ground zero in India. Pathetic abhorrence about the country’s economic heft, celebration of diverse faiths, rule of law, thriving democracy and not for profit organizations that operate in multitude tantamount to driving a view point. It may not be easy for western trained minds to understand Indians sensitivity when casual and flippant comments are made. These commentators just may not fully comprehend this complex country, Hindutva, Modi or BJP and would have taken a line that’s far from truth. For that matter, rise of patriotic Hindus that love their country being equated with Mussolini’s forces is something that borders on ignorance par excellence. For instance, when The Guardian, The New York Times or BBC says 200-odd million Muslims in India are either being treated as second class citizens or subjected to genocide, do these responsible media outlets fully gauge the implications? I’m tempted to quote a recent research paper produced by Indian Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council member Shamika Ravi titled ‘A secular Democracy in Practice: Objective assessment of Amenities Programs in India’. The study that focuses on bottom 20 per cent households demolishes this preconceived view that minorities have been targeted in India. On the contrary, the study based on a nationally representative sample of 1.2 million households across 2015-21 shows no discrimination whatsoever against minorities. If at all, there’s bias in favour of minorities especially the Muslims who have been large beneficiaries of government schemes and projects to provide electricity connections, open bank accounts, access to toilets, mobile connectivity. In a few cases, the minorities dominated by Muslims have gained more than Hindus. The study cites the case of access to electricity provided to 71 per cent Muslim households while it was 68 per cent for Hindus. Bank accounts coverage in Muslim households was as high as 77 per cent. Even the myth that Hinduism purportedly dominated by ‘Brahminical order’ discriminates against low caste communities and tribes gets busted. While access to bank accounts for backward classes was 75 per cent, for scheduled castes and tribes it was over 70 per cent. Centre for Integrated and Holistic studies (CIHS), as a think tank based in New Delhi has recently put together a detailed report on State of Religious Minorities in India. The report’s in-depth analysis based on evidence and data provided by Indian Government and other agencies establishes that minorities have been big beneficiaries of specific schemes and projects for socio-economic progress of these faith-based groups. As per the report, 49,000 major infrastructure projects were sanctioned by Central Government for minorities including Muslims and their demarcated areas in last nine years till date. From schools, medical colleges, universities, top-notch health care centres, skill development institutes, service centres to sports facilities and handicraft hubs have either already become operative or in the process of execution. As per Ministry of Minority Affairs, students of religious minorities will have to study subjects that place them on par with other students. While the Ministry does not interfere in their traditional systems of education, it promotes subjects that enhance critical thinking, reasoning and incorporates scientific thinking. Religious minorities were allotted 35 graduation colleges, 177 residential schools, 1,572 school buildings, 23,473 classrooms, 14,311 smart classrooms and modern teaching aids, 689 student hostels, 94 ITI buildings, 20 skill centres, 15 polytechnics, 2,397 health projects, 413 sadbhava mandapas (community centres), 168 common service centres, 553 market sheds, 100+ hunar haats, 6,762 toilet and sanitation projects, 84 sports facilities, 27 working women hostels and one unani medical colleges. Central Government’s scheme for Education of Madrasas and Minorities (SPEMM) was reportedly rolled out. Madrasas which avail these schemes benefit from curriculum redesign and redevelopment that includes introduction of subjects like science, mathematics, social studies, Hindi, and English. Other skill development schemes like Seekho aur Kamao (i.e. Learn and Earn), USTTAD (Upgrading The Skills and Training in Traditional Arts / Crafts for Development), Nai Manzil, Haj Management were introduced by the government that were specifically for Muslims in India. A recent editorial in ‘The Guardian’ talked about laying an epitaph to multi-ethnic secular democracy in India. Again, this is a line that’s completely misplaced given that Election Commission of India is the most authoritative, independent and autonomous institution that does not allow elbow room for discrimination against any religious class, faith practice, castes, tribes or a political class. Even women representation in all four tiers of well-established Indian democratic structure has been on the rise. As per data provided by Law & Justice Minister Kiran Rijiju on December 9, 2022, Lok Sabha or lower house of Indian parliament has 14.94 per cent women members while upper house or Rajya Sabha accounts for 14.05 per cent. Similar is the case with state legislative assemblies, district councils to panchayats that represent lowest rung of Indian democracy at village level or clusters. If strong democratic institutions, law and order machinery coupled with judiciary were not enough, public scrutiny at virtually each level makes Indian democratic experience all the more unique though it’s a wee bit chaotic. This again demolishes Western perception that Indian democratic institutions ‘serve a particular ideology’. Western media reportage claims time and again that information gets censored routinely by the government and civil society organizations were hounded out. This is far from truth. As per Registrar of Newspapers for India, over 114,000 newspapers and publications in over 100 languages have formally been registered by the time Covid 19 set in India. This does not include scores of TV channels, websites

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