Is the farm laws repeal one step back, two steps forward?

Given the poor appetite of Indian leadership for reforms, my first reaction to farm law repeal was “Sheer insanity”. The decision has elicited responses ranging from disappointment, anger to concern. Being a nation state India has been a ground for various vested interests and their agendas. For decades, development has been held hostage by political parties for their narrow electoral gains. The sudden announcement of withdrawal of the farm laws that can usher country into second green revolution on Guru Purub by Prime Minister Modi, has expectedly raised many hackles.

With a potential to revolutionise agricultural sector which employs over 45% of the population and benefit small and marginal farmers who constitute 95% of the farming community, enactment of farm laws was deemed as the 1991 moment for Indian agriculture. Considered as panacea for all the ails afflicting Indian agriculture, even the Congress party included the new farm laws in its manifesto.

Regarded as a game changer, the farm laws if implemented will boost agri-GDP and further much-needed crop diversification. Till now, guaranteed MSP resulted in highly skewed cultivation of Rice and Sugarcane which besides depleting the water table are contributing to increase in methane and nitrous oxide levels. Further the ever-bloating granaries of FCI, huge farm subsidies extended to farmers are sucking up the tax revenues which could have been used for development. Legislated farm laws besides addressing these issues could have been a huge boost for the revival of covid hit Indian economy. Now the annulment of farm laws has pushed the agriculture sector into doldrums.

The arhtiyas or the middle men who stand to lose economically from these new laws has stiffly opposed the new reforms. For the fear of antagonizing this influential community for eons political parties wavered from introducing new agri reforms in agriculture. Modi bite the bullet.

Sensing an opportunity in farmer’s opposition, threw weight behind the farmers who started protesting the farm laws. Those who objected to the new changes included the farmers from Punjab, Haryana, West Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. To allay fear and address grievances Modi government held 11 rounds of talks with farmers. But the talks to failed to break the impasse and the farmers intensified protests in the NCT region. Condemning the government for failing to communicate and take the stakeholders along, the Supreme Court expressed disappointment over government’s handling of farmers protests and suspended the implementation of the legislation.

Overruling the executive which is the heart of a functional democracy, SC stayed laws on Jan 12^th.  Accordingly, Centre decided to put farm laws on hold for 18 months. SC indeed constituted an expert committee to study the farm laws and consult the farmers organisations. The committee submitted the report on Mar 19^th. But till now the report isn’t made public.

Though the laws were suspended, digging in heels, the farmers organization continued to protest. A year of protests unraveled their true agenda. Under the banner of peaceful protests, the farmers enacted a Capitol Riots incident in India. Thronging the Red Fort on the Republic Day, the unruly mobs sporting Bhindranwale shirts and carrying traditional weapons erected Nishan Sahib flag on the staff used by Prime Minister to unfurl the tricolour on Independence Day. Giving the episode of anarchy a veneer of “ruthless regime crushing the agitating farmers”, the World media and the Indian ecosystem hushed the shameful act of the anti-national elements.

The succession of events that followed, exposed the vested interests that have been hand and glove with the agitation.  At a time when the country is non-plussed at the abject retreat and surrender of the Prime Minister, it is incumbent to shake off the collective amnesia and recount the one year of farmers protests that has been a den of vested interests of various hues.

Justifying the violence unleashed by protesting farmers, the ecosystem which termed the Capitol Riots a threat to democracy jumped in to vociferously defend the indefensible. Soon, the international media offered cover to the slanderous attack of the protestors on Indian flag and their attempt to vilify national pride.

Shortly, singer Rihanna, Greta Thunberg and niece of Vice President Kamala Harris tweeted in support of farmers. Meanwhile, an inadvertent leak of infamous ‘international tool kit’ by the juvenile environmentalist has completely exposed the agenda of global vested interests in farmers protests. Hence it should be unsurprising when Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau, Canadian Labour and Civil societies openly expressed solidarity with protesting farmers.  

A publication claimed that the second covid wave in India originated from farmers protest in Punjab. Defying the Covid appropriate behaviour and violating the epidemic act, protestors engaged in agitation. Interestingly, the courts which micromanaged the Covid situation and pulled up government for slack oxygen supply remained a mute spectator to a plausible covid timebomb ticking in the capital. Other than expressing concern, the courts remained meek spectators.

Protests in the NCT region paralysed the normal life and badly affected commercial activities. Though numerous petitions were filed to remove the protests, deprived of urgent hearing the national exchequer entailed severe losses. Delinquent approach of the law and order agencies ensured that the right to protest reigned even as other rights are hindered. The stunning silence of civil societies, the ecosystem, opposition parties had tacitly hinted of an uncanny nexus.

The farmers protests had its genesis in Punjab, a border state with Pakistan and ground for Sikh separatism and Sikh-Hindu discord. Indeed, a separate Sikh state has been a communist agenda too. With a history of unrest and secessionist activities, the state underwent an emotional churn. To avenge the 1971 humiliating defeat, Pakistan’s ISI stoked the secessionist Khalistani movement in Punjab and to win back the state politically, Indira Gandhi has propped up Bhindranwale, who ignited the Sikh fervour. This potent concoction pushed the state into chaos and turned into a terrorist hub. The separatists were weeded out and terrorism was extricated from Punjab with super heroic efforts.

Over the years, Sikhs became very conscious of their symbolism of resisting anything which they deem to be oppressive. Conceiving the farms laws to be inimical to their interests Sikhs began to oppose them tooth and nail. This resistance partially stemmed from a conception that Modi is an authoritarian leader. In the meanwhile, the anti-Hindu forces, Break India forces, left wing radicals used this occasion to carry out insidious propaganda that deepened alienation and disaffection.

Pakistan’s deep state sought to weaponize the resentment of farmers through Khalistanis to create unrest in India. Pregnant with disaffection towards the Indian dispensation over the farm laws, the farmers movement changed it trajectories. Gradually the initial peaceful rail and road blockades and sit-in-dharnas graduated to violent attacks on toll gates.

Aflush with funds from Khalistanis in North America, the movement infiltrated with politicians, activists and separatists, aspired to keep the agitation simmering. Reports of rapes and recovery of a body of a farm labour with his left arm hacked, tied to a barricade at the protest site, lynching at Lakhimpur Kheri have been the manifestations of the new agenda. Even the goal posts of the protests changed from total repeal of laws to political fight against Modi government.

Investigations of cash trial to person who hoisted Nishan Sahib flag could be traced to secessionist groups. The video of Gurupatwant Singh Pannu of SFJ linking the farmers protests to 1984 have confirmed the worst fears of Khalistani links to the farmers protests.

India dispatched a three member NIA team to Canada to investigate the links, similarly it condemned the UK government of allowing the Khalistan referendum on Oct 31^st and radicalization of Sikh Diaspora. Since the farmers agitation Sikh radicals in UK started holding protests condemning farm laws and participating in anti-India protests at the behest of Pakistan’s ISI. Having received a shot in arm with the fall of Kabul to Taliban, Pakistan is slowly intensifying its anti-India activities through the Sikh radicals.

The Pakistan-Taliban nexus now has covert support of China which refuses to disengage with Indian troops at LAC. NSA Ajit Doval’s references to civil societies, which condoned the anarchy of farmers protests under the banner of peaceful agitation, is a clear signal that the protestors in cahoots with anti-India forces are on a mission mode to create unrest and chaos in India all in the name of registering their opposition to farm laws.

With elections around the corner, analysts widely alleged that BJP’s penchant to win the polls as the main reason for this sudden withdrawal. In reality, the Sino-Pakistan nexus is hell bent on capitalizing the domestic political fissures is egging on anti-Modi elements to destabilise India. Punjab being a border state with a Sikh majority is vital for the security of the country. In lieu of internal and external stability, in 2018, Union cabinet approved the development of Kartarpur Corridor at a meeting to commemorate the 550^th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji.  The following year Kartarpur corridor was officially opened for Indian delegation on Guru Purub. Two years hence, when Modi declared the withdrawal on the most auspicious occasion for Sikhs, the move was seen as an attempt to placate the Sikhs who strongly opposed the agricultural reforms

Modi government hasn’t been averse to risks. Months ahead of 2017 UP elections, cognizant of electoral fall out, Modi announced demonetization. Scrapping of farm laws will deny the opposition parties a vital electoral agenda in the upcoming Punjab polls. But this move is unlikely to brighten BJP’s poll prospects especially in Punjab. The impact of the decision on UP elections could be an interesting watch.

Announcing the withdrawal of farm laws, Modi tendered an apology to farmers. The words, “kisano keliye kiya tha desh ke liye wapis le raha hoon” has rightly summed up the import of the decision. While the decision is a great set back to the reform process, Modi’s attempt to win back embittered Sikhs would go a long way in building bridges of trust. It has been an endeavour to attenuate the bitterness and alienation, which has pushed Sikhs into Pakistan’s embrace during 1970s and 1980s.

On the flip side, this surrender is a huge win for anarchists. Invoking the farmers protest template anarchists will extract their pound of flesh to derail reforms and development projects. Mainstreaming of protest culture can pose a danger to the well-structured functioning democracy. Modi’s capitulation can dent his credibility as a reformist committed to economic revival and development.

Certainly, this has been a tough call.

Is one step backward worth it? Only time can tell…

 

China Asserts Supremacy of its Ideology for Global Domination

World is at crossroads. Nations are trying to assert their power. The Middle Kingdom making no secret of its global power ambitions is unleashing its hegemony. Accumulating the much-needed financial heft, China has stormed into the top slot. Tripling its wealth in the past two decades, China has overtaken the US as the richest country in terms of net worth.

Aside its rise as an economic superpower, China aspired to position its ideology as supreme to the contemporary world. Leading and dominating this ideological battle has been integral to China’s ambitions. Pivoting its growth on all aspects ranging from trade, investment, infrastructure, space, science &technology, AI and semi-conductors, China harboured the long cherished dream of dominating the world.

Plethora of events in the recent past- ruthless incursions into Taiwanese airspace, salami slicing across the LAC, coercive agreements with Bhutan, relentless intimidation in the South China sea, and the Land Boundary Law have been nothing but the manifestations of entrenched expansionist leitmotif of the Middle Kingdom. Along the unabashed hegemonic overdrive, China is now edifying its domestic defences and establishment imbuing overdoses of ideological insemination.

The sixth plenum of 19^th Central Committee of Chinese Communist Party (CCP) held from Nov 8^th to 11^th has indeed, served the purpose of enrooting and affirming support to the guiding ideology. During the five year period of each central committee, traditionally seven plenums are held. The 1^st and 2^nd discuss party and state posts, 3^rd and 4^th discuss major political matters dealing agriculture, reform and law. 5^th plenum is dedicated for draft of five year plan, 6^th for ideology and party building, 7^th is for preparing for party Congress¹. In line with the tradition, the 6^th plenum focused on ideology and party building and concomitantly asserting faith in the leadership of general secretary of CCP and President of China.  

The sixth plenum is considered important since it sets ideological agenda. Indeed, the manifesto of sixth plenum of 2011 and 2016 have presciently laid out the manifestations of Xi era. The 2011 plenum firmly outlined strengthening of ideology and imposition of strict controls on education, culture, internet, literature religion and society¹. Accordingly, in his first term Xi religiously implemented the manifesto of sixth plenum. The 2016, plenum was centered on ‘Guidelines on Intra-party political line’ and ‘Rules of intra-party supervision’. In line with guidelines of the plenum resolution, the regime unleashed a series of political and rectification campaigns.

Sixth plenum has thus been very important. Since the announcement of plenum, Chinese observers focused on the close similarities with 2021 plenum to 1945 and 1981 resolutions that underpinned the pre-eminent status of the great helmsman Mao Zedong and the reformist Deng Xiaoping. The 2021 plenum has passed a resolution on the history of CCP, the third such occasion in the past 100 years that culminated in positioning Xi alongside the other two pre-eminent leaders.

Earlier in 2016, Xi was designated as ‘leadership core of the party’ and with ‘Xi Jinping thought’ being inscribed into the state constitution in 2018, Xi’s stature was elevated to that of the pre-eminent leaders Mao and Deng. While officially Xi is considered as the Core Leader on par with Mao, the founder of PRC, this plenum has officially reiterated its stance.

Being an opaque administration, the plenums and its official statement are closely watched to understand the future course the CCP is likely to charter. The 2021 plenum passed a resolution titled- ‘Resolution of the CCP Central Committee on the Major Achievements of Historical Experience of the Party’s Centuries of Struggle’ and officially expressed faith in the core leadership.  

Though there wasn’t any explicit mention of extension of Xi’s term beyond 2022, by doing away with succession plans and term limits in 2018, the fait accompli is Xi’s continuation in power as the President.

The import of the Xi’s consolidation can be gauged by his stern warning to the US President over the Taiwan issue. At a time when the US is scrambling to evolve a robust China policy, having strengthened its internal and external defenses, Beijing is dictating terms to the US. On Taiwan, President Biden said, US is committed to “one China policy” and that Washington “strongly opposes unilateral efforts to change the status quo or undermine peace and stability across Taiwan Straits”. This ambiguous posturing devoid of incisiveness was in sharp contrast to Beijing’s warning which stated that any support to Taiwan from the US would be “like playing with fire”². The virtual summit, held shortly after the sixth plenum reflected the renewed confidence of Xi, head of everything in China.

Notably, the 2021 resolution has been forward looking devoid of any intent to learn from past mistakes which has been the biggest takeaway from the Mao’s 1945 resolution. In cahoots with Xi’s policy of “historical nilihism” of deliberately expunging the inconvenient truths of Great Leap Forward and Cultural Revolution, the brain child of CCP, the plenum backed and praised the efforts of CCP. It pondered on the need to act with great resolve and stronger sense of purpose staying true to the party’s foundation mission. It insisted on staying committed to communist ideals and socialistic convictions to make the country prosperous, strong and bring happiness to the people.

Precisely, the 100 years of CCP was divided into three eras- Mao credited for ushering PRC into new era, Deng for the reform era and Xi for third age of ‘Chinese Marxism’. China has adopted Soviet Union’s ideology of Marxism-Leninism. Drawing lessons from the collapse of Soviet Union, China which has attained its objective of relative prosperity is now on a mission mode to reimplant the ideological moorings among the citizens.  

Xi’s push for “common prosperity”, the basic tenet of the Mao ideology and sharp escalation of official crackdown on excesses in industries has been an attempt to assert socialism with Chinese characteristics. Upholding socialism has become the mainstay of CCP. Mirroring this new course, the 2021 plenum hailed Mao’s power of ‘adapting Marxism to Chinese context’, Deng’s ‘socialism with Chinese characteristics’, Jiang Zemin’s ‘theory of three represents’, Hu Jintao’s ‘scientific outlook on development’ and Xi Jinping’s ‘thought on socialism with Chinese characteristic for new era’. The resolution called for the full implementation of Xi’s thought for driving the ‘historic process of national rejuvenation’.

Central Committee stated that “with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, has demonstrated great historical initiative, tremendous political courage and a powerful sense of mission” and commended him for the “unified leadership for advancing our great struggle, great project, great cause and great dream”³.

Upholding the One-China Principle and 1992 consensus, the Central Committee opposed “Taiwan independence”. The plenum recognized the promotion of national reunification promotion through the “one country two systems” policy.  It expressed satisfaction over China’s increasing international influence, appeal and power. Stating that “the party has proved to be great, glorious and correct”, the CCP has unequivocally attributed the rapid strides of China to this ideology.

Unapologetic about the ideology that led to killing of 40 million people, the 2021 plenum decided to meet for 20^th National Congress at Beijing in the second half of 2022 and signed off with a big and bold message- “We must use Marxist positions, viewpoints, and methods to observe, understand and steer the trends of the times, and constantly deepen our understanding of the laws underlying governance by a communist party, the building of socialism, and the development of human society”.

The west aided China’s rise premised on a delusion of prosperous societies becoming open. Thriving on a heady ideological sinew of national rejuvenation, avenging century of humiliation, one China policy, nine dashed line, China is rearing to realise the second centenary goal of reunification of Taiwan with mainland. 

Having failed to impose checks on its unabashed expansionist adventures, the world in general and its neighbouring country India must up its guard against the bully.

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1.  

Delhi Declaration Reaffirms India’s Commitment to the Security of Afghanistan

On August 15^th, Taliban took over Kabul ushering the country into a despotic rule. India at the helm of UNSC presidency during the Kabul fall has been instrumental in bringing out the UNSC resolution 2593 to effectively deal with Taliban in Afghanistan. The resolution passed on Aug 30^th demands that Afghan territory shouldn’t be used to threaten or attack any other country or to shelter and train terrorists.

The resolution calls for safe passage and departure of Afghans and foreigners who wish to leave Afghanistan, unhindered access to UN agencies, strengthening of efforts for humanitarian assistance to the country, upholding the rights of women, minorities, children and sought for an inclusive and negotiated political settlement.

Unlike other legislations, UNSC resolution carries some heft. Donning the leadership role, India played a crucial role in reaching a global consensus on Afghanistan situation. Notably, this has been first legislation that acknowledged Taliban as defacto in charge of Afghanistan.

With this India has indicated that it is adjusting to the reality of Taliban regime in Afghanistan. Though this change of approach doesn’t state that India is ready to do business with Taliban or anything close to recognizing it. But this necessarily demonstrates that India will not abjure its stakes in Afghanistan.

In tandem with the new policy, a day after the UNSC resolution, Indian delegation led by envoy Deepak Mittal held discussions with head of Taliban’s political official Sher Mohammed Stanekzai at Doha² for safe and early return of Indian nationals.

On Oct 21^st, weeks, ahead of the proposed Delhi Security Dialogue, Indian delegation led by JP Singh met representatives of Taliban along the sidelines of Moscow Format meeting expressing readiness to provide humanitarian assistance³. Expressing concern over the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan, in his online address to G20 Summit, Prime Minister Modi stressed on the need for ensuring “immediate and unhindered access” to humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan.

India has always supported the people of Afghanistan, their aspirations. Hence instituted several capacity building and developmental projects in all Afghan provinces. Wary of escalating food crisis, India had planned to send 50,000MT of wheat to Taliban ruled Afghanistan and placed formal request with Pakistan but India hasn’t received any reply. India has been sending nearly 1 lakh MT of wheat to Afghanistan for nearly two decades. In 2002, Pakistan refused India access to Afghanistan through its territory and ever since India relied on the circuitous Chabahar route for transit.

As opposed to India’s developmental role, Pakistan exulted Taliban takeover of Afghanistan and quickly instituted a friendly pro-Islamabad regime in Kabul and asserted its control. Three months hence, Afghanistan has plunged into worst humanitarian crisis. Hunger and famine pushed thousands of families into extreme poverty. Governance has come to a halt. Now, the devastating consequences of migration from Afghanistan and the security threats are unsettling the immediate and extended neighbourhood.

In wake of the escalating uncertainty, to address the security challenges of Afghanistan called for a dialogue with regional countries. Indian NSA Ajit Doval convened the Third Regional Security Dialogue on Afghanistan with NSAs of seven regional players- Russia, Iran, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan that have crucial stakes in security and stability of Afghanistan on Nov 10^th.  Terming “a spoiler can’t be a peacemaker”¹ Pakistan NSA Yusuf Moeed, turned down India’s invitation. Soon, China followed the suit. Citing “scheduling issues”, Beijing skipped the regional dialogue.

Ironically, Chinese special envoy attended the Troika plus meeting hosted by Pakistan a day after Delhi Dialogue. The absence of Pakistan and China has been along expected lines. Vindicating popular opinion, The Global Times, carried out an op-ed on Delhi dialogue which read, “India wants to use the event to show its influence in regional affairs and strike a blow at Pakistan…… With China, Pakistan’s absence, India-hosted Afghan meeting (is) unlikely to yield tangible results”⁴.  

GT propaganda made it amply clear that the Iron brothers are determined to undermine India’s efforts. Pakistan has always been reluctant to engage with India on Afghanistan for the fear of losing its dominance. It has always sought to marginalize India’s role and downplayed India’s developmental efforts.

India condemned Pakistan’s decision to skip NSA level talks as reflective of its mindset of viewing Afghanistan as its protectorate. Indeed, US Congressional Research Service voiced similar opinion stating, “Pakistan has long played an active and by many accounts, disruptive and destabilizing role in Afghan affairs, including through the provision of support to the Taliban”⁵. For decades, Pakistan stonewalled the economic integration of South Asia via SAARC.  Now, it is impeding the regional cooperation in Afghanistan issue as well.

Pakistan seeks to gain ‘strategic depth’ in Central Asia through Afghanistan and Beijing needs Afghanistan for smooth operationalization of OBOR. Afghanistan is crucial for the geopolitical aspirations of China and Pakistan. The resurgence of Taliban is an opportunity for both to achieve their objectives. Defying international consensus, Pakistan and China have been providing support to Taliban.

Russia, on the other hand has been toeing a middle path. It participated in Delhi Dialogue and Troika plus meet. Indeed, its dichotomy is reflected in dissonance of its envoys as well. While Russian NSA Patrushev on his first visit to India days after telephonic conversation between Modi and Putin on August 24^th expressed security concerns to Russia due to Afghanistan, its special envoy Zamir Kabulov who attended Troika plus backed, “engage and recognize Taliban” approach.

Be as it may, Russian participation had lent much weight to Delhi Dialogue and NSA Doval stated that Russia first came up with the idea that India should host a security dialogue on Afghanistan. China and Pakistan aren’t keen on restoring peace and stability in the region. On the contrary, Iran, Russia and Central Asian countries are wary of the security threats emanating from Afghanistan. Privy to the ramifications on their respective nations during the previous Taliban regime, a surge in violence across their borders is now unsettling them.

India’s legitimate concerns find congruence with regional countries that have clearly acknowledged New Delhi’s leadership. Presence of seven regional NSA exemplifies the same. Aiming at bringing out stability in Afghanistan, India laid out a clear framework- the Delhi Declaration. All countries “reiterated strong support for a peaceful, secure and stable Afghanistan while emphasizing the respect for sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity and non-interference in its internal affairs”⁶. This is an apparent dig at Pakistan which treats Afghanistan as a protectorate and the Sino-Pak strategy of capitalizing on Afghanistan’s situation for their geopolitical ambitions.

Regional countries have been at the receiving end of terrorist attacks emanating from Afghanistan in the past and now have unequivocally “condemned in strongest terms all terrorist activities and reaffirmed their firm commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including its financing, the dismantling of terrorist infrastructure and countering radicalization, to ensure that Afghanistan would never become a safe have for global terrorism”. China and Pakistan have coopted terror agencies and peddled oxymoronic “good and bad terrorism theory”. Delhi Declaration calls for international scrutiny and collaboration to contain the menace of terrorism that is threatening to extend its tentacles.

Latest UN figures state that 85% of world’s opium is produced in Afghanistan. Drugs have been an important source of revenue for Taliban. Taliban thrived on the funds of narco-trade to sustain the jihadi movement. The rise of Taliban has compounded the menace of drug trafficking and the participants of Delhi Dialogue, who have been victims of narco-terrorism “called for a collective cooperation against the menace of radicalization, extremism, separatism and drug trafficking in the region”.

Finally, a stable Afghanistan can’t be realized without the participation of all stakeholders in governance and humanitarian assistance. Delhi Dialogue rightly emphasized on these aspects- stressed the need for an open and inclusive government which ensures that fundamental rights of women, children, minorities are not violated. It also called on UN agencies to continue to play a role in Afghanistan to ensure unimpeded distribution of aid to all sections of the society.

Irrespective of the regime, India has always supported the ordinary Afghans. Reaffirming its commitment to the country, despite the Sino-Pak nexus attempting to derail a regional cooperative framework, India reached out to countries for a broader regional coalition on Afghanistan. Shedding its historical reticence, asserting her legitimate interests in restoring peace and stability, India adopted a pragmatic approach towards Afghanistan.

An unstable Afghanistan is a disaster in making. While mild-mannered Taliban diplomats in the recent past tried to project Taliban 2.0 as an inclusive and open force, unrelenting violence, targeted attacks on minorities have inexorably exposed their true nature. Afghanistan crisis needs a long term solution and a committed coalition. Though the dialogue may not yield immediate results, Delhi regional security dialogue underscores India’s firm commitment towards Afghanistan. It establishes India’s role as an important regional player in ensuring peace and development of Afghanistan.

Taliban welcomed the Delhi Dialogue and said, “the India meeting is effective for Afghanistan because India is one of the aid-providing countries to Afghanistan and it is now interested in supporting Afghanistan”⁷. Reportedly, at the Troika plus meeting held by Pakistan, Taliban representative asked PM Imran Khan to facilitate the transport of Indian wheat through Wagah port to Afghanistan and reinstitute visa services.

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India Positive Citizen Perspectives

 Positivity as a vibe has a tremendous potential for transformation. Determined to perpetuate positive vibes for the transformation of our country, Savitha Rao has endearingly brought out a book titled- “Putting #INDIAFIRST: India Positive Citizen Perspectives”. In response to a clarion call by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Mann Ki Baat address, Rao published this book originally planned for 2022. Drawing inspiration from India Positive Citizen concept, she expedited the timeline and launched the book by August 2021.

Broaching the aspect of her ambitious timeline, in the foreword, the author says, “emblematic of new India that believes in speed”, she has advanced the book launch. The book written with a great sense of purpose, commitment and above all an unflinching love for the country makes an earnest appeal to the youngsters to have an emotion of “this is my India”. To instill this sense, the author documents and curates the profiles of outstanding positive Indians who made difference to the society and advocates the concept of giving back.

Exemplifying the joy of giving the author states, “kindness and generosity coupled with purpose, creativity and discipline will create a new world”.

The choice of the icons and the stalwarts referenced to imbue positivity are awe-inspiring. The panoply includes- service personnel, industrialists, educationalists, sportsman, scientists, writers, psychologist, businessmen, economists, spiritualist, innovators, agriculturalists, nature lovers and yoga therapists.

The book which is the first volume in the series carries meaningful snippets, experiences and messages of Positive Citizen and features- Ajay Pirmal, Subedar Bana Singh, Ashish Kumar Chauhan, BK Shivani, Dr K Radha Krishnan, Dr Krishna Ella, Krishnamachari Srikkanth, Air Marshal Ravinder Kumar Dhir, Dr R S Sodhi, General V P Malik,  Mohan Das Pai, B Nagesh, Meghna Girish, Dr H R Nagendra, Ami Shroff, Dr Kumud Joshi, Vikas Manhas, Dr Nagraj Hegde, Dr Padmaja Suresh, Srikanth Bolla, Dr Gobardan Das, Major D P Singh, Gopal Sutariya, Dr Karsan Bhai Patel, Dr Rajat Mitra, Biplab Paul, S Vijay Kumar and Peepal Baba.

Each of them shares their own mantra of success, their guiding force that promoted them to prod on and persevere. Every day we come across various success mantras generously shared on social media by influencers. But its effusive gush of motivation is so transient. On the contrary, a real-life experience of toil and grit casts a phenomenal impact on the psyche of a person. The book, essentially distils those experiences of ordinary Indians who have made brilliant contributions to motivate people into guided actions.

The common thread that runs through the book is the peerless love of the country. “My India, My Pride” seems to be the driving force for all of them. Investing their energies and resources into a gamut of their expertise these India Positive Citizens have made a significant difference.  Rooted in values, harnessing inner power and firming adhering to ethics, through self-less service, they contributed towards nation building.

With a fire in belly and a conviction to give back to society, these real life heroes can be an inspiration to the younger generation in this self-centered society. Enriched by the perspectives of uniquely talented individuals who by the dint of hard work touched the pinnacles of success, the book attempts to subtly infuse the idea of nation-building. Exhorting that, “nation building is not the responsibility of few”, the author goads readers to realise their responsibilities towards country.

Contemporary slanted discourse is dominated by the fierce rebellion that revels in picking on the government for failing to uphold the fundamental rights of the citizens. Amid this expostulation, the reality of rights and duties/ responsibilities go hand in hand and are interconnected is completely lost. It is time citizens should introspect their contributions towards nation. Or their value addition towards the process of nation-building.

For long the country celebrated inappropriate and undeserving individuals, the new India with largest youth population clearly need new idols, new models who can motivate them, nurture and channelize their energies towards building a prosperous nation. A nation ready to reclaim to its past glory, revive its civilization and be a Vishwa Guru.

Bringing to light the stories of several unsung heroes drawn from different walks of life and demographics, the author rightly drives home this message. Every effort matters. Often small changes can steer a movement that can change the trajectory of a nation. Replete of positivity and pragmatic aspirations, the book written in simple language is built on the foundation of creating a feeling of belongingness towards nation.

Curating the messages of the India Positive Citizen perspectives, the author attempts to sow a seed of change and infuse positivity through the book. Faced with myriad challenges both internal and external, it is incumbent on the citizens of a 1.3 billion population to resolutely strive towards security and prosperity of nation. This book is an attempt to create a national spirit and drive people towards “my nation first” approach.

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K.M Munshi's Bhagvan Parshuram

Adaptations of our itihasas has over the years evolved into a powerful genre of writing. Retaining the essence of itihasas while subtly delivering the message and underscoring its relevance, Indian authors strived to maintain a perfect balance. This nuanced writing of connecting the current generation to the exquisite ancient repositories of knowledge played a tremendous role in enhancing general understanding and appreciation of Indic civilisation. Such writings have been on an ascendant in the recent past.

KM Munshi’s Bhagavan Parshuram, the English translation of a Gujarati novel of the same name is amongst the front-runners of Indic writings. Bhagavan Parshuram revered as the sixth avatara of Bhagavan Vishnu is held in high esteem. Considered to be an immortal (Chiranjeevi) and believed to be living on the Earth even till day, Parshuram is among the category of six other legends that evokes intrigue and fascination. Acclaimed as slayer of Kshatriyas who wavered path of dharma and reckoned as his act of cutting-off of his mother’s head upon father’s command for harbouring unchaste thoughts, Parshuram, the revered Brahmin rishi is renowned for aggression, martial skills, serenity, prudence and patience.

Mirroring the unique traits of Bhagavan Parshuram, KM Munshi in his novel, an adaptation of Dasarjana of Rg Veda-The Battle of Ten Kings, scripts a fiction which diligently intertwines the stories of Rishi Vishwamitra and Parshuram. The fast-paced novel, comprising of several plots and sub-plots staged in the Rg Veda era, centres around the River Saraswati. 

Unambiguously rebutting the pernicious Aryan Invasion theory, the novel is in part an ode to the Saraswati civilisation that has been the defining aspect of the Indic civilisation. Outlining the framework of Rg vedic society which rested on the pillars of the Rta (Law of Righteousness), Tapas and Dharma, KM Munshi introduces various clans of the Vedic era which includes- the Bharatas, the Bhrigus, the Trishtas, the Dasyus, the Yadavas, the Nagas, the Haihayas and the Aghoras.

Termed as Sapta Sindhu, the land through which Saraswati flows, the region was considered extremely sacred and held in great esteem. The residents of the region were deemed to be virtuous or designated as Aryans. Aryans firmly believed in the Law of Rta as opposed to Dasyus who defied it.  This became the reason for incessant fights between the Aryans and Dasyus.

Aryans which included the Bharatas, Bhrigus, Trishtas took upon themselves the task of defending Law of Rta. Introducing the rich lineage of Bhrigus which traces its origins to Maharishi Bhrigu, KM Munshi in his novel, eloquently begins the story from Sage Richika, the father of Jamadagni.

First part of the book details the close familial relationship between Jamadagni, Vishwaratha (who eventually gains acclaim as Vishwamitra), Vashishta, the brother of Sage Agastya, Sudasa, son of the Trishta King Divodasa. Incidentally all of them the advocates of Law of Rta study together at Agastya Ashram.

But the destiny of the Aryans takes a drastic turn with the kidnapping of Vishwaratha, the inheritor of Bharatas by Dasyus. During his captivity at Tugra Fort, Vishwaratha falls in love with Ugra, the princess of Dasyus. Pledging life-long support and companionship Vishwaratha to her, he not only challenges the existing societal order but also attempts to transform the deeply entrenched divide between the Aryans and non-Aryans.

Advocating the assimilation of Dasyus into Aryan society, Vishwaratha earns the love of Dasyus and wrath of Aryans. But eventually with his eclectic persuasion powers he manages to bring the two tribes together. In the process, Vishwaratha becomes renowned as Vishwamitra (friend of all). Unfortunately, this semblance of assimilation gets disrupted with the abduction of daughter-in-law of Sudasa by Dasyu successor Bheda.

While the second part of the story delves into the extraordinary martial skills, valour, patience and phenomenal commitment of Parshuram or Rama, as he is popularly called towards Dharma. Since his young age, the valorous Rama demonstrates his unflinching conviction towards upholding dharma.

As a saviour of the weak and emancipating the oppressed, Rama wins the hearts of the people living along the fringes of the society. Parshuram’s efforts to resurrect the Yadava clan and upliftment of Nagas and his encounters and friendly overtures with the man-eating Aghoras and his extirpation of the Haihayas who violates all the precepts of Dharma with impunity vividly exemplifies the overarching traits of Bhagavan Parashuram. Parashuram who leads a nomadic life with his love Lomaharshini, sister of Sudasa, makes unrelenting efforts to establish Dharma wherever he goes.

Indeed, the two parts of the book attempt to portray two different leaders-Vishwamitra and Bhagavan Parashuram who in their own ways attempt to establish the Law of Rta.  Understandably, Dharma has been the moral compass for these torch bearers who fought for inclusivity and aspired for the well-being of the society.

Interestingly, the two parts of the book revolve around River Saraswati of Sapta Sindhu and River Reva of Anupdesh (present day Gujarat) respectively. River Reva is considered as sister of River Saraswati. Replete with so many familiar legendary characters the novel certainly stirs up the curiosity of readers. Published seven decades ago, KM Mushi’s lucid Bhagavan Parshuram can be an excellent inspiration for modern writers aspiring to work on Indic themes.

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Danish Prime Minister’s Visit Bolsters Green Strategic Partnership

 Prime Minister of Denmark, Mette Fredriksen arrived in New Delhi on Oct 9^th on a three-day visit becoming the first head of the state to visit India since February 2020. Fredriksen’s visit has been a curtain raiser to the in-person diplomatic visits of leaders which have been largely derailed by the Wuhan virus pandemic.

Envisioning a new directionality to the Indo-Danish relations, in September 2020, PM Modi and PM Fredriksen launched “Green Strategic Partnership” between the two countries virtually. India’s commitment to the climate change finds greater congruence with Denmark’s conviction environment. Together both the leaders have agreed to strengthen cooperation in green sectors.

Indeed, the genesis of this partnership can be traced back to the proposal mooted by the Joint Commission Meetings (JCM) initiated in 2008. Thus far, both countries held four such meeting; the initial two meetings in 2008 and 2010 respectively in New Delhi and the third meeting was held virtually in 2020. The 4^th meeting held in Denmark was attended by EAM Jaishankar on September 5^th. Jaishankar eventually laid ground for the bilateral summit meet.

Days after 4^th JCM, a large business contingent led by Danish Minister for Climate, Dan Jorgensen visited India and met Tamil Nādu Chief Minister Stalin to finalise the plans for setting up a $ 5-10 billion Energy Island, a floating Wind Park at Gulf of Mannar to generate 4-10 GW of power. As part of Green Strategic Partnership, 2020, India and Denmark shortlisted Gujarat and Tamil Nādu for developing an Energy Island that can become local hub for manufacturing wind turbines. Copenhagen delegation found Tamil Nādu to be a viable option and set up a Centre of Excellence for Offshore Wind¹.

Denmark is the leading country in wind power generation and produces close to 50% of its electricity from wind. India’s renewed interest in collaborating with Denmark stems from its set target of 450 GW from renewable energy by 2030. India’s current renewable energy portfolio stands at 146 GW. In keeping with its commitments to the Paris Climate Agreement, India, the only G 20 country is making fervent attempts to reduce its reliance on the fossil fuels.

Clearly, green sector cooperation has become the cornerstone for the Indo-Danish bilateral ties. Extending a traditional reception to Danish counterpart, PM Modi received Fredriksen at the Rashtrapati Bhavan and held bilateral talks at the historical Hyderabad House. Giving massive fillip to this cooperation both leaders during their bilateral talks welcomed a detailed Five Year Action Plan (2021-26) for the implementation of the Green Strategic Partnership.

Underpinning the importance of green and low carbon growth under the five year action plan, countries identified various sectors for cooperation like- water, environment, renewable energy, climate action, smart cities, trade and investments including cooperation on intellectual property rights, maritime cooperation, food, agriculture, science, technology, innovation and health.

Leaders evinced plans for commercial cooperation in green technologies under the EU Horizons Program and Mission Innovation. Clearly, Indo-Danish collaboration on green energy will be a major fillip to Modi’s new mantra where environmental security is given equal emphasis as national security. To realise climate targets Modi launched National Hydrogen Mission.

In this context, it is interesting to recall that India and Denmark are part of LeadIT (Leadership Group for Industry Transition) that are committed to reaching net zero emission by 2050. Both countries have agreed to cooperate on decarbonizing hard to abate sectors like (power, housing, transport sectors). Expressing solidarity for a swift transition to a sustainable future, India and Demark confirmed support to global climate change actions pursued by Paris Agreement, UN SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) and agreed to work closely for the upcoming COP26 at UK.

Denmark attaches special prominence to SDGs. In an effort to bring youth across the world to collaborate on ideas and solutions for SDGs Denmark launched UNLEASH Global Innovation Lab in 2017.  First edition was held in 2018 at Singapore and it moved to Shenzhen, China in 2019. The next edition is now set to be unveiled at Bengaluru² in 2022.  Under the ambit of the Green Strategic Partnership, India and Demark are cooperating on sustainable water supply as well.

Leaders oversaw the exchange of four MoUs on mapping of ground water resources, traditional knowledge access, establishing Centre of Excellence towards natural refrigerants and skill development. Besides, Reliance Industries Limited, Infosys and Observer Research Foundation signed MoU on development of hydrogen analyzer, Centre of Excellence for Sustainability solution and Knowledge-sharing with Denmark partners³.

Other important aspects that featured the bilateral talks include the need to establish globally beneficial vaccine partnerships, mutual recognition of vaccination certificates to ease travel, reiterated need for multilateral cooperation to combat pandemics and Afghanistan crisis. Denmark congratulated India on its successful UNSC presidency, extended support for its permanent membership to the reformed and expanded UNSC.

EU’s Indo-Pacific policy too figured in the discussion. Being democratic countries both India and Denmark strongly advocate rules-based order, freedom of navigation and accord highest priority to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific which has turned into theatre for global contestations.

India’s ties with Denmark took a hit over Denmark’s refusal to extradite Kim Davy, wanted in the Puralia Arms Drop case of 1995. Bilateral ties remain frozen since 2010 after Denmark reversed its decision. Ahead of the Fredriksen’s visit, in response to a query, MEA spokesperson indicated that India hasn’t buried Davy’s case and assured that the issue will be pursued.

Breaking the impasse, invoking on an unprecedented outreach, during his first term, PM Modi visited many countries and attempted to diversify India’s ties. As a part of this extensive diplomatic engagement, he resurrected relationships with European nations.

PM Modi attended the Nordic-India summit in April 2018 and discussed ways to improve ties with Denmark after a gap of 9 years. Subsequently, promoting government to government cooperation, both countries signed four MoUs in the fields of animal husbandry, sustainable and smart urban development, agricultural research and food security cooperation.

Sustaining the momentum, the following year, Danish Prime Minister Lokke Rasmussen attended Vibrant Gujarat Summit-2019, where Denmark was the partner country. PM Modi and his Danish counterpart held bilateral talks along the sidelines of the summit⁴.

Amid the global flux and looming uncertainty underscoring the importance of multipolar world, India ramped up ties with nations other than its traditional partners.

Seizing the opportunity of burgeoning Sino-skepticism and the abrasive trans-Atlantic ties, India adeptly focused on building partnership with European countries. India’s centrality to Indo-Pacific strategy is not lost on EU which has released a paper on the same that called for diversification of ties with countries in South East Asia and India.

India’s rising profile is evident from the invitation extended to it for the annual Bled Strategic Forum (BSF), held in Slovenia in September. BSF, a key forum of European Foreign Ministers held discussions on “Partnership for a rules-based order in Indo-Pacific”⁵. Given India’s advocacy for rules-based order and alternate resilient supply chains in the post-Covid world, countries are welcoming India’s presence in the continent to counter China. After withholding the investment pact with China, EU resumed engagement with India to revive negotiations on FTA.

Aside strategic and security interests, India is now keen on partnering with countries with specific knowledge sets to address the solutions for growing energy needs of burgeoning population for a sustainable growth and development. Nordic countries, especially Denmark are known for their expertise in renewable energy and sustainable development. Epitomising Denmark’s sustainable future vision, Copenhagen is racing to become first carbon-neutral city in the World by 2025.

Indeed, as Rahul Kamath remarks in his article⁶, “green transition and climate action have become a major necessity” for the long desired FTA between India and EU. He adds, Japan has clinched economic partnership agreement with EU on the basis of its “Paris Agreement commitments, sustainable forest management, conservation of biological diversity and combatting illegal logging”.

Other than the green strategic agreement, India and Denmark have significant economic ties with over 200 Danish companies operating in India. Wary of China’s debt trap diplomacy, opaque operations and reciprocal sanctions, India is now deemed to be a safe economic partner. Indeed, China’s 16+1 mechanism has created a vertical divide within the EU with countries like Bulgaria, Czech, Slovakia pandering to Beijing and defying the EU.

India is slowly building partnership with various EU members to expand its strategic map of maximizing its chances to consolidate a strong partnership with EU and an FTA. In this process, New Delhi is seeking to revive its political, economic and cultural relationships with European countries. Above all, India shares Europe’s vision of multi-alignment and strategic autonomy for a peaceful and stable world order.

Green Strategic Partnership envisaged in 2020 received a fresh impetus with Fredriksen’s visit setting a stage for larger strategic cooperation with the European Union.

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