Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Euphoria in the US

The merchant of dreams and aspirations sizzled on the world platform. He came and he conquered. The Modi mania gripped NRI’s in the US and reached its pinnacle following his extempore in Hindi at the dazzling Madison Square Garden. Flurry of reactions flooded the social media, where in cynics trounced and critiqued the speech as an “Old wine in new bottle”. Critics interjecting that he has been in power for the past four months and results are not imminent. It’s time that he should walk the talk before making tall claims and making alluring bids to woo the US investors into Indian markets.

Indian politicians have become synonymous to power brokers. As a result people were denied of true leadership that can inspire and guide people. Often we forget the magic of the four letter word “HOPE” and the tremendous change it can entail in life. The generation X in particular and Indian masses in general were tired of the slumberous and lethargic UPA government. Modi’s emulative speeches offered a ray of hope to dispel the despondency and doom.  Further the decade long meek and subdued presence of Prime Minister Mohan Singh has literally sabotaged the dreams and aspirations of the young Indians. India, the treasure trove of culture and heritage with its rich demographic dividends is slogging in the narrow disowned lanes clamouring for its slice of glory among the World Nations. Our presence as a nation has almost been stomped by the vicissitudes of political regalia. The lethargy and despondency has romped away the spirits of the younger generation. The sense of belongingness to the nation was holding on to its last breath. The new generation is finding a beacon of hope in Modi’s exuberant and inspiring speeches. Hope is the elixir of life and man continues to draw inspiration and life sustaining force from motivating speeches. The present generation is now eagerly looking for a leadership that can instil some vigour into their pursuits. The courage to dream and strive towards goals can be invigorated with ample doses of hope.

A thunderous welcome on foreign turf, especially on the dream land America has forced Oxford- accented, self appointed guardians of the quasi secularism dawned intellectuals in India to liberate themselves of the conniving attitude which they harbour towards Modi. The charismatic connect and orchestration of the speech in the Madison Garden by an eloquent speech in Hindi had forced the professed Indian elitist intellectual cadre to reconsider their bias of radical opinions towards right wing leaders who are labelled as communalists. Indian society has been under the tutelage of the pseudo secularists who deeply professed that liberal opinions spiced with nationalism and a touch of Indianisation to be disastrous for nation. The euphoria of Modi has spelt doom for these intellectuals whose ideologies failed to inspire people.

Majority of Indians are able to connect up with these neo-liberal and development oriented ideas as they are synchronous with their aspirations. The massive surge in popularity for these goals and the unprecedented approval received from people isn’t going well with the preconditioned upper class English speaking elitists. Unfortunately in India articles in glossy magazines inked by the sassy Indians with degrees from foreign degrees seem to make to the headlines. They are ensconced with prophetic appeal.  But the ideologies firmly rooted culturally in Indianism and nurtured in Indian civilisation are still reviewed sceptically. The surge of Modi and his encompassing Indianism and inclusivity has strengthened the voices of the liberal Indians. Interestingly most strident and raucous news channels, media houses have seemed to have mellowed down their antagonism towards Modi at the fervency of the NRI crowds in the US. Liberal ideas grounded with development agenda are set cleanse the fossilised ideas, impelled by the intellectual class whose ideologies drawn away from the realities of life.

 

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China: The Uncanny Dragon

The World is disgustingly curious about China and India is no exception. India curiosity is more psychological and actuated by copious provocative incursions across the LAC. Imbued by its dominating disposition, China of late has been repeatedly lashing at the LAC creating a reign of terror. India’s cozy relationship with Japan irked China. It feared that strong Indo-Japanese ties could circumvent its ascendancy. While Prime Minister Modi serenaded President Xi Jiang on his visit to India and extended royal hospitality, Chinese troops laid seize across the LAC (Line of Actual Control). The overt belligerence under the mask of extending business investments during the bilateral visit blatantly exposed the diabolical stance of China.

The comprehensive subtler caliginous goal of the dragon is to establish a new world order. Emboldened by its robust economy and envious growth rates over a period of three decades, its imperialistic traits are now apparent. It’s on a mission to assert itself as a super power and prevail over Asia.

Shangai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) mirrors ambitions of China to build a dominant security block on par with the acclaimed NATO. Incidentally the meets of these two organisations were held in a gap of 20 days. NATO’s Summit concluded in Wales, New Zealand while the six member countries of SCO- Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Russia and China met at the 14^th Annual Summit in Dushanbe, capital of Tajikistan. During the summit, members unanimously decided to expand the organisation.  Accordingly, observers of the group Mongolia and Afghanistan were given first priority to join SCO as members. In the meanwhile, China invited India, Pakistan and Iran to be its members, who in turn are keen to join the group. Iran’s membership will be under scrutiny since it is facing UN sanctions. The West is imminently worried with this move as its strong hold in Asia might decline if India and Pakistan join the group. China is intent on defying the US-led world order sooner than later. Dragon is busy wooing smaller nations and trying to bring them under its fold under a multitude of partnerships. SCO’s accomplices insist that the main objective of their partnership is to combat three evils: terrorism, separatism and extremism. Along these lines China recently conducted a joint military exercise or rather anti-terrorist drill in Inner Mongolia with its personnel.

Because of its growing presence and commercial clout China is able to secure the cooperation of the Central Asian local authorities in successfully deporting illegal migrants mostly the Uighurs through Laos and Thailand. Through a series of rendition agreements, China is wielding control in this region and slowly turning itself into regional security block. With NATO forces exiting Afghanistan by the end of 2014 growing uncertainties might force   India and Pakistan to seriously consider joining SCO. China is aiming to head one more organisation named Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA). Though cohesion among members in organisations led by China is doubtful, it is intent on promoting itself by building various institutions.

Fortified by Russia’s persistence China vigorously pursued the proposal of developing BRICS New Development Bank and a Development Fund on par with the World Bank and IMF to counterbalance the West. China even plans to launch a multilateral Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) as an alternative to the US and Japan controlled Asia Development Bank (ADB). Infrastructure development is a major task among the developing nations in Asia and a promise of financing such projects will interest countries like India.  In spite of mutual distrust and border disputes India is leaning to join the new bank which would start with a capital of $50 billion from member countries. Under the banner of Maritime Silk Route (MSR), China is trying to ally with countries in the South East Asia, West Asia, South Asia and Africa to build a network of port cities along the route linked to the economic hinterland of China. China also has a heady role in a trilateral commission (presently languishing) between South Korea and Japan and a Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.

With its dominance in a spectrum of organisation China is nurture its economic and strategic capabilities. In varied multilateral organisations with its overbearing role China is slowly but stealthily wresting control over the World. By the time world could wake up to its mess, it might have had created a new order.

 

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MOM Success : Magical Run of ISRO Continues

 

Resounding success kisses ISRO as the Mars Orbiter for Mars makes its rendezvous with the Red Planet.  With Prime Minister witnessing the event live from the ISRO’s mission control centre, scientists erupted in joy at the ISRO’s Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network received signals travelling 680 million kilometres. MOM switched into mission mode and started orbiting around Mars by 7:47 IST and the signals reached the ground station after 12.5 minutes.  This is a glorious day of Indian science. With this India has become first country in the World to place spacecraft in the Martian Orbit in its maiden effort. Till now 51 missions have been attempted by various countries, 21 have succeeded. With this ISRO entered the elite club of three agencies which include the European Space Agency (ESA) of European Consortium, National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA) of the US and Roscosmos of Russia

MOM began its odyssey to the red planet when the work horse PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) successfully lifted off from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota on November 5^th, 2013. The journey of the satellite has been near perfect and it left the earth’s sphere of influence on December 5^th 2013. It has been idling in the space for 300 days and entered the Mars gravitational sphere of influence on September 22^nd when the engine was fired briefly for four seconds. The success of crucial test firing indicated healthy state of spacecraft boosting the confidence of the scientists. On Wednesday, the Orbiter first reoriented itself and the speed was brought down to 4.4 km per second. This was followed by firing of engine for crucial 24 minutes. All the commands preloaded 10 days back were executed perfectly facilitating the entry of the spacecraft into its designated elliptical orbit of 423km at its nearest point from Mars and 83,000 km at its farthest point from Mars. The 450 Crores unostentatious satellite will deploy five instruments all of them indigenously built to study the Martian atmosphere, its mineral composition and to detect the presence of methane gas. The 15 kg payload comprises of a methane sensor, thermal infrared sensor, Lyman Alpha Photometer, Martian Exospheric Neutron Composition Analyser or MENCA and a Mars colour Camera. During its eventful stay of 6 months Mars Mission will have two unique opportunities of major study. These include a study of Mars satellite Phobos and a comet expected to pass by Mars at a distance of 50,000km.

MOM a brain child of ISRO was built indigenously and designed in a record time with a frugal budget and costs roughly a ninth of the NASA’s Mars space mission Maven that entered Mar’s Orbit on September 21^st. ISRO has embarked on the challenging mission of interplanetary space voyage for not executing some exotic experiments but to prepare ground for future missions. The purpose of the mission was to test India’s ability to send a satellite which can go way beyond Mars and orbit around the planet.

 

Besides accomplishing remarkable scientific landmarks, MOM mission has literally made Indians proud. Despite the inherent limitations, Indian scientists with their meticulous planning, persistence and endless hours of work achieved the near impossible. This glorious event has rekindled the spirits and bolstered the confidence of youngsters in the magic Indian science. It also spurred the need to develop scientific temper and outlook. The success augurs well with the aspirations of the new generation of Indians striving to catapult India from its status of emerging nation to a developed nation. India’s resilience and steady progress in space exploration is befitting reply to all critics who ridiculed the government’s decision of allotting public funds for space research.

Till now, MOM mission received an uncharacteristic attention and the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the momentous climax of this historical event caught the public eye. In his exuberant congratulatory note he stressed the need to inculcate the scientific spirit and gave clarion call to explore the unknown.  MOM mission has certainly revved up the spirits of the scientists the true harbingers of scientific progress. It has also expanded the realm of ISRO to expand its scientific aspirations and technological capabilities. ISRO’s true test of scientific acumen lies in constructing cryogenic engines, the crucial component of the GSLV (Geo Stationary Launch Vehicle) launch vehicle which can carry pay loads of 1500kg and more. India successfully test fired indigenously developed cryogenic engine in January 2014 holding a great promise for more space explorations. MOM mission has become a harbinger of new hope and Indian spirits soared high and chest welled with pride with its success.

 

 

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Crucial Mangalyaan Mission: Furtherance for India’s Space Missions

India’s most ambitious Mangalyaan or the MOM (Mars Orbiter for Mission) flagged off from SHAR, on Nov 5^th, 2013 is in its last leg after successfully completing 98% of its journey.  It is scheduled to enter the orbit of Mars on Sept 24^th. MOM a brain child of ISRO was built indigenously and designed in a record time with a frugal budget. Mangalyaan cost roughly a tenth of the NASA’s Mars space mission Maven scheduled to enter the Mar’s Orbit on September 21^st. Successful rendezvous of Mangalyaan with Mars would greatly boost the morale of ISRO and India’s aspirations of entering the global space technology market worth $300 billion. ISRO has embarked on the challenging mission of interplanetary space voyage for not executing some exotic experiments but to prepare ground for future missions. The purpose of the mission was to test India’s ability to send a satellite which can go way beyond Mars and orbit around the planet. This unostentatious satellite as a part of mission housed 5 indigenously built instruments to study the planet’s surface, mineral composition and look for presence of Methane gas, a crucial component of life.

Barring a small glitch after few days of launch, the spacecraft has moved along the expected trajectory hence correction exercises were not executed. Unlike the Mars Mission of NASA, India’s mission was quite complicated as it needed repeated firing of satellite thrusters and intricate manoeuvres before it began on its journey to Mars. Even the launch was complex and has a 25 minutes long coast between the third and fourth stage during which the engines were shutdown. When the satellite entered the earth’s orbit, six- orbit raising manoeuvres lasting for 25 days were performed before it left the earth’s ambit. All these manoeuvres required precise calculations. Maven on the other hand required five minute push from the powerful upper stage of the rocket, just 27 minutes after lift-off. After lying dormant for almost 10 months, the engine would be switched on Monday, 22^nd September with preloaded commands will fire for four seconds to reduce its speed. If it fires well, ISRO will fire it for 24 minutes on September 24^th to facilitate the entry of spacecraft into the orbit of Mars. If it fails ISRO will nudge the spacecraft into the orbit by firing eight small thrusters on September 24^th. In any case, the spacecraft will successfully accomplish its mission unless something unexpected happens.

Mangalyaan is now travelling at speed of 22km per second with respect to sun. This speed has to be lowered to 4.3 km per second with respect to Mars to enter its orbit. This can be achieved by reorienting the spacecraft and firing an engine in opposite direction and Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM) is entrusted with this job. Since LAM has been tested in the last two decades by ISRO, it is confident of its execution abilities. By September 24^th spacecraft would be 224 million km away from earth and signals from earth will take 12.5 minutes to reach the satellite and vice-versa. Hence operating satellite in real time is not possible. Preloaded commands will fire the engine by 7:17am IST on the D-day and spacecraft will be reoriented too.

Impeccable execution of commands will accord ISRO a higher status in the space research as no other country could reach Mars without failures. ISRO has already crossed two major hurdles by meticulous rocket liftoff and flawless injection of satellite around the earth. Most countries failed in their Mars missions as they were unable to understand Mar’s gravity. ISRO has so far managed to navigate around Mars and satellite is also in good health. Contingent plans for firing the engine are in place. If LAM fails to fire, the eight thrusters will inject the satellite into a little higher orbit and then scientific goals will be adjusted accordingly. In any case, ISRO will create history by successfully putting Indian satellite orbiting the red planet within few days in its maiden effort.

A successful Mars Mission will embolden India’s resolve to build new satellite launching centres capable of carrying heavier satellites into space. India having launched 40 satellites has already proven its mettle in deploying lighter satellites. With this new accomplishment India can be a tough competitor to China, an established player in the space technology market.

 

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By Polls Result: A Blow to Religious Aspirations

With BJP receiving its biggest setback post general elections in the recent round of by polls, the word Secularism is back to the forefront. In Indian scenario the concept of secularism is most misconstrued. Come elections, the issues of religion are on the fore front.  Religion card even now seems to play a crucial role in elections. It is unfortunate that in the era of technology, religious conflagrations are on rise and people in India can be incensed on religious lines. Theological differences are not new to India. But rifts along religious lines have opened up due to covert secularism professed by Indian political parties.

While one national party has reincarnated itself as the saviour of minorities by appeasing them, the other has its roots in the orthodoxy and the intolerance of the dissent. Both of them have become two decrepit versions of secularism. One stereotyped as anti-Hindu and the other baptised as communal or Hindutva cult. The impetuous attempt to carve a special place for minorities laid foundation for proliferation of the Hindutva cult. Sadly, the diatribes of the later cult through their vitriolic speeches have usurped the benign face of Hinduism. Regional parties that play a larger role in Indian federal setup aren’t far behind in propounding their own version of secularism. Thus, religious freedom has been deeply concocted in this great democracy by all the parties. Consequently, the issue of religion in Indian context is dubbed either as communal, favouring the majority or championing minorities if it appeases minorities. Among these, there exists an elite irreligious class too. Political parties should fend off these old tricks under the guise of secularism. They should refrain from doling out sops to minorities and from unleashing avenging rage among the Hindus. Instead a charter of righteousness must be propounded, where people can rise above religious divide and live in harmony and peace. The new generation modern Indian aspires to espouse religious neutrality and to uphold the law at all times.

It is time politicians and apostles of religious cults in fray to abdicate from these affiliations and strive to build a strong nation. India’s greatest strength is its diversity. Any disturbance to its basic entity would be disastrous. NDA government could register a thumping victory trouncing the oldest political party because of its promise of development and good governance. A convincing victory of BJP in general elections defied the predictions of many political commentators who dismissed the Modi Wave. They predicted that party would be trampled under the weight of its Hindutva ideology. But the new generation has voted them into power. Rejuvenated by its resounding success, complacent leaders allowed the fringe elements to play a bigger role in the by polls. Even though the party may not attribute the defeat to acerbic campaigning style, results indicate that voters are irate.  Any deviation from the development agenda might spell drubbing in the elections hence forth. Hence Modi government must castigate the cultist fringe elements that thrive on identity politics within the administration. The honey moon period of 100 days is over and voters are impatient waiting for the deliverables. By and large the by poll verdict clearly indicates that people are aspiring for a better country. They are waiting for the new set of economic reforms which can curtail the stagflationary spiral. Instead of stooping down to the new lows of religiously bickering administration must evince humanist values and work towards developmental goals.

 

 

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Towards A Resurgent Asia: Indo-Chinese Bilateral Ties

While there are reports of incursions by Chinese across LAC, Chinese President Xi Jinping is tipped to visit India for two days Sep 17-19. There is an aura of enthusiasm among various South Asian countries who hail the meeting of heads of two emerging economies of the region. This bilateral visit, more so assumes great importance after Prime Minister Modi’s triumphant visit to Japan early this month and for indirectly referring to China’s for its 18^th century imperialistic attitude. Further, Prime Minister Modi having established an initial friendly rappoteur of friendship during the BRICS summit can strengthen bilateral ties by offering him the privilege of addressing the Parliament an honour already given to the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and President Obama. This gesture can be a stepping stone for enhancing trust and confidence between both the parties.

 Though there are sizeable trade related transactions between the two nations, China has been the biggest benefactor so far. China’s investment is paltry $ 500 million, mostly in Gujarat. Expectations are riding high that China is bound to make investments greater than Japan, which has already pledged investments to the tune of $35 billion in Indian markets over a period of five years. China with largest forex reserves of $ 3.95 trillion with richest bag is believed to make investment between $100 and $300 billion in modernisation of railways. Japan having bagged the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train line, Chinese evinced interest in modernising Bengaluru- Chennai and Bengaluru-Mumbai high speed rail corridor.

India can actively engage with China in its efforts to establish an Asian Infrastructural Investment Bank (AIIB) which aims at providing investment and strong platform for multi-modal connectivity through high speed ports, rails and airports. China has already invited India to be a founding member of AIIB. Further, China is in the process of reconstructing the centuries old Maritime Silk Route (MSR) aimed to improve connectivity with South East Asia, South Asia, West Asia and Africa by building a network of port cities along the route linked to the economic hinterland of China. India can be part of this initiative to improve its industrial as well as supply chains. China is also keen to open the headquarters of the AIIB among the MSR countries and India can possibly be one of them.  China has recently invited India to participate in the Asia Pacific Cooperation Economic (APEC) Summit in Beijing. It has also invited India to be part of the Shangai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). India should consider these offers in a positive note and respond decisively. Induction of India into SCO can be helpful in regional security and economic cooperation. It can be a gateway to gain greater access to Afghanistan and Central Asia.

Similar to Modi’s visit to Japan, Xi is expected to land in Ahmedabad as against New Delhi with a contingent of 50 business men. Modi would fly to Ahmedabad to receive him personally. As many as 20 MoU’s on various issues ranging from infrastructure development, trade to culture related agreements are expected to be signed.  Among these agreements, two industrial centres near Gandhinagar and Pune are going to be developed on lines of Chinese manufacturing hub Shenzan.

Xi recently cancelled his scheduled visit to Pakistan due to its volatile domestic political situation. It has been first bilateral visit by a Chinese President to India and not Pakistan after the Indo-China war of 1962. Following the recent assertions of Sushma Swaraj’s One China policy, it is believed that assiduous efforts of India might help in resolving the boundary dispute amicably. Among other important juggernauts that elude Sino-Indian relationships is India’s closeness to Japan and US. For India the major reason for worry is the Dragon’s strategic relations with Pakistan and with other neighbours in its back yard.  Both the countries have a lot to gain if they can keep mutual mistrust and rivalries at abeyance. India can hugely gain from Chinese investments and expertise in infrastructure, construction of high quality ships and World Class ports. China too would equally benefit by gaining access to the $2 trillion worth Indian economy and Indians would too start actively investing in China. Another highly anticipated announcement which can turn around the tables during President Xi’s visit would be China’s gesture of opening up new safe route for Indian piligrims visiting Kailash Mansarovar in Tibet via Nathu La pass in Sikkim. This can strike cord with people of India at large especially among Hindus and Buddhists considering the religious importance.

The resurgent and a proactive strategic foreign policy of India under the leadership of Modi can aim to change the geopolitical equations in Asia if India and China forge better friendly relationships. Together, both nations with their iconic friendship and mutual cooperation can pave way for a resurgent Asia-peaceful, prosperous, powerful. 

 

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Jammu Kashmir Floods: A cataclysm Exacerbated By Human Activities

The state of Jammu & Kashmir has been hit by worst floods of 109 years and once again the country is caught off guard to meet the disaster. A massive cloud burst of Uttarakhand last year left over 6500 dead and flattened several hundreds of villages failed to resuscitate our government to step up weather forecasting services across the country. With the result, it has been nearly 10 days since the floods wrecked havoc in Southern Jammu and still lakhs of people are left stranded in flooded waters, several villages are still lying submerged and even phone connectivity couldn’t be restored to hinterlands. Reports suggest that state government’s machinery has been completely paralysed and it may take a month’s time for offices to even start functioning. All these incidents clearly depict the extent of deluge the state is reeling under.

Of late India has been experiencing extreme weather events at regular intervals. The massive floods of Mumbai 2005, cloud burst in Leh 2010, tragedy in Uttarakhand in 2013, landslides in Pune 2014 and now the floods in Kashmir have led to loss of lives of several thousands and entailed a severe damage of property of tens of thousands of crores. Though the torrential rains and nature’s fury might have been the reason for this calamity, it was more exacerbated by unscrupulous deforestation which aggravated the magnitude of disaster. Under the dissimulation of enhancing the economic activities in the green valley, trees have been ruthlessly cut down. Deforestation led to rapid erosion of the fertile top soil and its subsequent accumulation in the river beds, drastically reduced the water carrying capacity of rivers. In certain regions, massive construction activities have changed the course of major rivers. Deforestation has also reduced the water-holding capacity of lands in Kashmir. Since rivers beds have been hot seats of human habitation, rivers like Jhelum have soon turned into dumping beds of sewage.

According to Sunita Narain, head of the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE),- intensification of the rainfall due to the climate change and the mammoth development activities undermining the drainage system have been the root cause for the catastrophe that stuck Kashmir. Srinagar’s interlinked lakes, Dal- Wular and Nagin were designed to act as natural sponge to absorb the massive inflow and prevent flooding. Indiscriminate human activities crippled this exquisite network of lakes with the result, the region is reeling under the worst ever inundation. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change of United Nations (IPCC) in its report warned India to view a natural disaster not as a standalone event of nature’s fury but to discern the role played by the complacent development policies that magnify the devastation in the event of such calamities. It predicted that India would be affected by intense weather events, a consequence of accelerated climate changes. Disaster management officials lamented that unscientific design of roads and bridges, commercial activities on river banks and absence of embankments had aggravated the fury of the rivers Jhelum, Chenab and Tawi. Making matters worse, the state doesn’t even have a flood forecasting system.

India has been ignoring the repeated warnings of spiking of the extreme weather events like intense droughts, floods of cyclones from an average just 2.5 events in 1900-09 to 350 in 2000-2010. It is welcome relief that government finally bid farewell to its long phase of apathy and inaction and has resolved to study the reason behind the unusually heavy rainfall and its links to climate change in South Asian region under the Ministry of earth sciences. The intended study would focus on the interaction of western disturbance and the South West Monsoon which led to the catastrophe in Leh, Uttarakhand and Kashmir. Efforts are on to install a Doppler radar in Srinagar that can forecast extreme weather conditions like extremely high rainfall and issue warnings of thunder storms in advance. Early warnings can reduce the scale of destruction as disaster management machinery can be revved up.

The effects of climate change are imminent and India can no longer afford to have an Ostrich like approach to climate change. Scientific data of Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology indicates that events with high rainfall (more than 100mm per day) and very heavy rainfall (more than 150 mm) have been on a rise while moderate events (5-100mm) have reduced. Even the IPCC Assessment Report (AR5) predicted that India will get more rainfall in less number of days and that extreme precipitation during monsoon would also increase. All these tragedies indicate that India is no longer impenetrable to climate changes. If issues of climate change are resolved on with war footing strategies, more disasters might loom our land.

 

 

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Referendum’s Across The World

Across the globe the concept of self-determination has been the basic tenet for formation of different countries. People of different ethnicities have raced against time to establish their identities by declarations of statehoods and vowed their allegiance to their lands. In this process they defied all odds and tried to showcase their patriotic fervour by fighting for the cause of their identity by violent and peaceful ways as well. History is replete of examples where new nations were carved by brute force or by peaceful modes of secession.
 

Referendum ensures legitimacy of decision taken by people directly and not by political elite and hence an issue of majoritarianism. But Kosovo though voted for independent statehood by majority is not considered as independent as all members of UN fail to recognise its independent statehood. Three set of factors are found to be responsible for secession or self-determination- economic factors (distributional issues and poverty), political factors (grievances, institutions and elites) and structural factors (geography and demography).  The issues of identity (ethnicity) are irreconcilable as existence, interests and integrity are threatened.  Self determination claims exist from a continuum and they tend to change with time- from minimum claims of education and cultural protection and autonomy, to control over regional government and financial policy to maximal claims of outright independence and statehood. Studies found that the escalation period from the non-violent protests resembling conventional political activity to engagement in violent rebellion took on average about 13 years. States view an ethnic group’s bid to control territory as a threat and fear precedent-setting. Precedent setting concerns arise because states fear that granting independence to one ethnic group will encourage other ethnic groups to demand independence which can consequently weaken the territorial integrity of the state itself.

 

Thirty new states have come into existence following a referendum on independent statehood since 1945. The average time period between referendum and Independence Day was approximately 15 months. The achievement of independence has become synonymous to obtaining membership of UN.
 

 

The year 2014 already witnessed three independence referendums- Crimean status referendum which led to the formation of Republic of Crimea subsequent annexation by Russia others were Donetsk and Lugansk status referendums which were not officially recognised due to allegations of fraud. In the later part of this year three self-autonomous states are itching to be free. Scotland has decided to be an independent state and its residents are going to seal its fate on Sept 18^th. During the earlier referendum people have voted for a functional parliament, now the stakeholders are set to vote for independence. The process has been green signalled by the UK government. Two other regions are set to follow similar steps. Catalonia region of Spain is scheduled to go through referendum on November 9^th. But unlike UK, central government of Spain government has declared referendum illegal. Though the dates are yet to be announced, Kurdistan moves ahead with plans of independence from Iraq through referendum. Unlike the other two regions, Kurdistan was severely repressed and divided under the dictatorship of Saddam Hussein. It was subjected to reign of horror and terror. During the recent insurgency in Iraq, when ISIS forces have spread their strong hold across the North east region of the country, Kurds under a determined leadership sent forces to safeguard their boundaries. Kurds are religiously guarding their vast reserves of oil and natural gas in Kirkuk region. Independence of Kurds is likely to be contested as the neighbouring Arab countries refuse to accept the separate acceptance of Kurds. Kurdistan demand for independence is understandable owing to the torturous regime expedited on its land.

Catalonia on the other hand with the population of 7.5 million in the nation of 47 million is desperate about its self-determination. The long travails for this region were recorded in the 17^th century under the Francisco Franco dictatorship period. It borders France on one side and Mediterranean on the other. The spate of Catalonia if voted for independence would be bumpy ride as European Union would not accept its membership. The current prosperity of this region has been the outcome of its continued membership in EU. Even Scotland would have to face the similar consequences as Catalonia to apply for EU membership. Regarding the currency, Scottish leaders have indicated their willingness to continue the use of existing currency, British Pound. Panama, Latin American country uses US dollar though its transactions are miniscule compared to the main land US. Preliminary surveys indicate that separatists in the Catalonia might sway the region towards independence unless Spanish government would be more generous in its budgetary allocations to this region. Madrid’s uncompromising role has exacerbated the separatists hold in this region. Unfortunately unlike Scotland’s referendum, Catalonia’s status referendum is not recognised by the mainland Spain. Hence the official status of such referendums is still questionable.
 

Similar to Scotland, Kurds are entitled to rich oil deposits in the Kirkuk region. The recent incursions of ISIS into Iraq have changed the political geography of the region and Kurdistan received a shot in arm as US officials are silently acknowledging its autonomy. But Kurdistan may fail realising its dream of independence at this juncture, as it would greatly destabilise this entire region. Moreover World leaders are backing the idea of “functioning federalism” with Sunni’s, Kurds and Shiites forming a government in Iraq.

 

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Australia: The New Strategic Partner For Look East Policy

Riding high on Look East Policy India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has successfully romped in the trust and confidence of another strategic partner, Australia. During the recent bilateral visit of the Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott to India on Sep 4^th, India inked the most crucial Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement with Australia. India is the first country, non signatory of nuclear non-proliferation treaty with which Australia signed such an agreement. The seed for the agreement was laid by Julia Gillard who lifted the ban on sale of Uranium to India. Australia’s unequivocal support reflects new level of mutual trust and confidence in bilateral relationship and opened a new chapter in bilateral cooperation. The agreement would ensure a regular supply of Uranium, highly consequential as India is slated to increase its operational nuclear plants to 30 by 2032 from the current 22 nuclear plants. India’s own reserves may not be enough as the requirement is expected to increase from the existing 400 tonnes to 2000 tonnes.  Australia has 40% of World’s Uranium reserves and a strategic relationship can be highly beneficial for long term India’s energy security plans of clean energy and minimum carbon foot print. 

In a country where Cricket is universal religion, the names of cities Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne and Perth are more familiar than Canberra, the official power centre of Australia. Australia reminds most Indians of its indomitable cricket team and their spirited run in hockey. Beyond the sporting ties in spite of enormous potential for bilateral cooperation, the relationship failed to consummate to its fullest. India and Australia share several commonalities- English language, democracy, free press, independent judiciary, enormous craze for Cricket and Hockey and connected by the Indian Ocean. Both of them are vibrant, stable and secular multicultural democracies. For decades, both nations remained at an arm’s- length due to clash of the titans- Jawaharlal Nehru and Australian Prime Minister Robert Menzies leading to a frosty relationship between the nations as well.  Australia’s White Policy and strident criticism of India’s nuclear tests also hampered the breakthrough in bilateral relationships. When both countries began to revamp the ties, the racist attacks on Indian students in Australia in 2009 vitiated the atmosphere.

Tony Abbott third Prime Minister to visit India since 2009 and his gesture of returning the ancient statues of Nataraj and Ardhanarishwara stolen in India has struck the chord for latest round of diplomacy. The current bilateral talks also resulted in signing three vital agreements. Due to convergence of interests both nations are now seeking extensive dialogue on counter terrorism, transnational crime, disarmament, non proliferation, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. Defence cooperation between two countries has substantially increased and the first bilateral naval exercise planned for 2015. More than 400,000 people of Indian Origin are effectively contributing to Australia and they form the bridge for greater friendship. Due to its complementarities, India and Australia can mutually cooperate and benefit through a strategic relationship. While India is resource constrained country, Australia is endowed with abundant natural resources. India can emerge as the major source of highly skilled human resources and can provide a market for the resources as well.

India and Australia co-operate in various multilateral fora. Australia has supported India’s membership for the expanded UN Security Council. Both are members of Common Wealth, IORA (Indian Ocean Region Association), ASEAN, ASEAN Regional Forum, Asia Pacific Partnership on Climate and Clean Development, East Asia Summit and G-20. Since there has been decline in trade during the last two years, both the countries wanted to conclude the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) for expansion of two way bilateral trade. India’s investments currently pegged at $17 billion in Australia are now increasing consistently and almost all the Indian IT majors have set up their firms in Australia. In a move to bolster the bilateral relationship a new Colombo plan is going to be in place to increase the flow of Australian students to India. A high impact knowledge partnership in science and technology fostered by Australia- India Strategic Research Fund has been extended for four years to increase focus on commercialisation of research outcomes.

While there have been regular ministerial level exchange of visits, bilateral visits at the level of Head of State has been very limited. To reinvigorate Indo-Australian relationships Prime Minister Modi is slated to visit Australia after the G-20 summit in November. It would be first bilateral visit to the continent by an Indian Prime Minister after a gap of 28 years to increase dialogue on political, economic and security issues. 

 

 

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A Thousand Splendid Sun: Book Review

Nothing can be so heart rousing as the pain of death and destruction. No country in the world is averse to the political turmoil and the deplorable situation of Afghanistan. Constant battles and unrest has taken a huge toll on the people of the once prosperous and culturally rich nation. The book “A Thousand Splendid Suns” by Khaled Hosseini clearly depicts how life in general and life of women in particular was marginalised in a patriarchal society during war. The book presents a grievous picture of the war torn country, Afghanistan. It gives a harrowing account of the citizens of country whose minds and souls are bruised and burdened by war. Millions were rendered homeless and emotionally shaken. Victims of war carried the gruesome torment of irreparable loss of their loved ones, throughout their lives. It is a moving account of people of Afghanistan who had to bear the brunt of repeated assaults on their land by various people over the past few centuries. Though the land is endowed with rich natural resources and blessed with patriotic souls ready to sacrifice for their land, repeated incursions ripped the nation apart.

Every plot in the story reminisces of the “survivor’s guilt” of the author. His overwhelming desire and loyalty as a son of the soil in rescuing and rehabilitation the victims of war is stunningly clear. The book stands out for its unique portrayal of Afghanistan and the cataclysm that stuck the people due to the internecine wars. It mirrors intense agony of the crumbling aspirations and hope of millions of youngsters and their doting parents. The novel also illustrates irreprehensible acts of Taliban whose monstrous act of shattering of the heritage centres like the Bhamiyan Buddha and imposing severe sanctions of women that had a demoralizing effect on people.

The assiduous attack of the Soviet Union sowed the seeds of unrest and turmoil following which the country was pushed into  an unremitting phase of wars. These battles wrecked apart lives of common man. During these internecine wars, benign moonlit nights paved way for uninterrupted rocket attacks which claimed innocuous lives. Millions of people were rendered homeless and desolate due to untimely deaths of bread winners.  Women were confined to four walls of home their public participation and movement has been strictly curtailed.

The book presents a soul stirring story of two women from contrastingly different back grounds who find solace in each other’s company. Both of them have their own share of misfortunes which hardens to face any eventuality. Under the crushing life situations, 33 year old Mariam and fifteen year old Laila, forge a bond of friendship which blossoms into sisterhood. Together, they endure the torture of their fiendish husband Rasheed and gruesome aftermath of war like the periods of starvation, brutality and fear. Yet, they overcome the obstacles of their life due to the sublime strength of love. With startling acts of heroism, they change the destiny of life and challenge to lead a better life under unforgiving circumstances. Finally Laila and her childhood love Tariq return back to Afghanistan after their brief stint in Pakistan and work towards rehabilitation of the nation. During the intervening time, the Taliban forces were driven away by the US troops and nation receives a new lease for life.

The heart wrenching and emotionally stirring account of the wounded country enkindles the reader’s heart with pity and horror. The author sums up with the subtle message that indestructible love can triumph death and destruction.  The story highlights the indomitable spirit  of the citizens and their love for the land can spur them into reconstruction of their beloved nation from rubbles. Despite every fall, the resolve of the people towards their motherland becomes emboldened. Author excels in his emotional narrative and the reader can really experience the pain and despair of the hapless people under reign of terror. An excellent read that can elicit a soul stirring pain....

 

 

 

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