Vivacious Modi's Ocean Diplomacy

The recently concluded Prime Minister’s 5-day long sojourn to Seychelles, Mauritius and Sri Lanka which ended triumphantly helped India to regain its lost ground in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The diplomatic lethargy and subdued international posture of India in the past decade took a toll on its stature in the global arena. Realising the urgency to make up for the lost opportunities in its immediate and extended neighbourhood, Prime Minister Modi sprung into action from the day he assumed the office. Meanwhile overarching Chinese aspirations to woo nations in this region with a big purse have propelled India into spirited action.

Indian Ocean has been trade hub for India accounting for more than two-thirds of its trade. Even history indicates that whichever nation had upper hand in this region had greater strategic advantage. Ironically no other Ocean was named after a single country emphasising India’s preeminent status in this region. While India’s land frontiers have been cause of major concern being surrounded by hostile neighbours, the geographically vantage position in the Indian Ocean region confers huge advantages on maritime front. Unfortunately India totally engrossed in guarding its borders frittered away the inherent maritime bounty. By according high policy priority to this region, India made a great comeback to regain its lost strategic, economic and political opportunities.

Furthermore to curtail Chinese encirclement, India should strengthen its naval prowess. Even as the recurrent Chinese incursions along the Himalayan way are keeping Indian forces busy their regular supply of liquefied gas and oil through the waters of Indian Ocean were never impeded. But in the event of massive flare-up along the borders boosting Indian naval forces interdiction of the Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOC) can straighten up Chinese military behaviour along the Himalayas.

Modi’s approach unlike the previous Prime Ministers has been imbued with assurances; generosity, and displayed an inclination to carry out its responsibilities as a high profile nation in IOR. Unambiguous statements, gestures, cordiality and willingness to act vouched for India’s conviction to make a significant mark in this region.

Contrary to the previously aggrandised Modi’s bilateral visits which drew high media glare this tour evinced moderate attention of commercial News channels but was praised highly for its substance and deliverance. During the entire tour Modi has been the cynosure of the local media and people of Indian origin spread across these countries showered unadulterated admiration. With his natural flair and ability to connect up with audience he held them in raptures and received rousing reception. Besides addressing the National Assemblies of these nations, an honour bestowed to closest allies, Modi had several official meetings with businessmen, politicians and other civil servants. He welcomed businessmen by offering visa on arrival and assured them of greater economic benefits.

The first and second phases of the tour to Seychelles and Mauritius were relatively acrimony- free. Modi inked four agreements with Seychelles on hydrography, renewable energy, infrastructure development and sale of electronic navigation charts. Modi gifted a Dornier aircraft and inaugurated coastal Surveillance Radar Project as a symbol of bilateral cooperation. Modi acknowledged the continued support of Seychelles to India in international fora and for endorsing India’s claim for permanent membership of an expanded Security Council. India too espoused its commitment towards climate change crucial for sustainable growth and development of the island nations. Modi secured the leasing of the Assumption Island, one of the 115 islands of Seychelles for its development as a tourist attraction and for its use in surveillance. Relations with Seychelles have been characterised by close cooperation and understanding specifically in defence sector. There have been instances in the past wherein India’s extended its unstinted support and help to Seychelles. During Operation of Flowers of Blooming in 1986 India dispatched its frigates to avert a coup and in 2009 it sent patrolling ships to guard its exclusive economic zone. In 2014 it gifted a naval ship INS Tarasa to augment its surveillance and patrolling capacity.

In Mauritius, nick named chotta bharat Modi was chief guest at their National Day celebrations. He flagged off India-built off shore patrolling vehicle Barracuda and launched the construction of Hindi World Secretariat building. He announced $500 million concessional credit line to Mauritius and signed five agreements in the Ocean economy sector. India offered to set up second cyber city in Mauritius. MoU pertaining to improvement of the sea and air connectivity of Agalega Island of Mauritius was signed. Additionally several MoU were signed in the field of traditional medicine, extending cultural cooperation and for the fresh import of mangoes.

The final leg of tour to Sri Lanka was a tight rope walk for Modi due to palpable apprehensions among the islanders owing to bitter acrimonies of the past. The past 25 years of Indian government functioned under the duress of the coalition partners and jeopardised relationships with Sri Lanka. While the Northern part of the Sri Lanka, the strong hold of Tamils was excited and enthused by the visit of an Indian prime minister after 28 years a section of politicians expressed strong resentment over India’s interference in Sri Lanka’s affairs. The strong objections of the Sri Lankan prime minister about trolling of Indian fishermen and former President’s Rajapaksha’s claim of role of RAW for his defeat in Presidential elections partly took away the sheen.

Amidst reigning cynicism in the island Modi’s visit was keenly monitored. Modi’s unfaltering steps and slew of measures laid robust foundation towards building a strong relationship with Sri Lanka. He tried to invoke the spiritual, historical, ethnic, lingusitic and religious connect between both the nations. With the new President Maithripala Sirisena making India as his first port of call last month followed by Modi’s current visit there has been a new synergy between two sides. Unlike President Rajapaksha’s strong obduracy towards China, Sirisena’s pendency towards India is a welcome relief. Four agreements on customs, visa, youth development and building of Tagore Memorial in Sri Lanka were signed.

Modi visited Jaffna the war ravaged part of Sri Lanka and handed over 27,000 houses built by the Indian government to the Tamils. He urged the Sri Lankan government to enforce the 13^th amendment of the constitution which advocates devolving more powers to provinces and stressed for political empowerment of the Tamils. He flagged off a Railway line constructed by Indian government in the Northern Province, promised of developing Trincomalee as a petroleum hub and extended $318 million credit line for Sri Lankan railways. While there is no denying that Sri Lanka cannot shed the tag of human rights violator and resolve the ethnic conflicts in the island without support and assistance of India, there is a deep resistance to the idea of being dependent on India.

The refreshingly robust new foreign policy approach of Modi besides projecting India as a stable and reliable partner made a conscious effort to overhaul ties with immediate neighbourhood. Till now India succumbing to defensiveness shied away from geopolitics realities. But by clear articulation of its foreign policy and strategic interests India tried to reclaim its lost ground.

Skill Development Initiatives: A Prototype of Peru

India’s growth ambitions may not be far-fetched if it can reap the advantages of the demographic dividend. India is one of the youthful nations of the World with a median age of 27. Almost 65% of India’s population is below 35 years. Realising the importance of harnessing skills of the young generation, government of India offered a high pedestal to skill development. A special ministry, Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship was carved in May 2014 by the NDA government to reach out to the millions of teeming youth.  The Ministry aims to skill and up-skill 500 million youth by 2022.

Across the globe, developing countries are adopting novel strategies to produce non-degree holding skilled youth. In this direction, the Skill development initiatives of Peru have been remarkable. With high rate of success and penetration of skilling in computers they made a huge difference in the lives of young women living in shanties. The new generation of the young women who received basic training in computers are now set to evolve into a brand of promising code-breaking army. A four-month primer course in software development under the name La Laboratoria (the laboratory) was offered to students to the underprivileged youth who couldn’t afford expensive education. Under this new social enterprise students are taught Java Script, CSS and English language programming terminology for a nominal fee. This program has become very popular among talented women hailing from poor households and lacking access to quality education.  Nearly 70% disadvantaged women in this part of World end up in low paying informal jobs and go through the never ending cycles of poverty. Hence skilling young women with software skills offer a scope for bright future.

The program initiated by La Laboratoria is aimed to bridge not only the gender gap but also at creating networking opportunities by having direct links with the soft ware industries. Thus, the students who are trained under this program are immediately absorbed into the industry directly. By organising weekly training sessions with the intellectuals of industry leaders they are trying to create networking opportunities. Peru’s tech industry is expanding at a rate of 7-10% since 2009 with internet penetration too registering quick progression; the Andean country is all set to evolve as the hub for tech industry in this region.

Peru’s tech industry worth $350 million is making rapid strides. Study conducted by Inter American Development Bank indicated that tech industry which is the fastest growing business is projected to employ 1.2 million people from Latin America and Caribbean by 2025. Currently in Peru, mere 7% of women are employed in tech industry. The phenomenal success of this program is now drawing financial grants from the tech companies like Google and telecom firm Telefonica. It is spreading to its Southern neighbour Chile. With more women entering the tech industry, there is new dynamism and energy.

The illustrious poverty alleviation programs or the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) of the UN expired by 2015. From poverty alleviation the focus has now shifted to sustainable economic development. Having achieving substantial and significant progress, these goals are replaced by Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). SDG would officially kick in from January 16^th 2016. One of the broader aims of SDG is to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and to promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. This can be attained by giving major push to Skill Development Initiatives.

Many disadvantaged in third World countries are leaving school without proper education and skills to earn a livelihood. With thwarted hopes these young people are jeopardising equitable economic growth and social cohesion. To reap advantages burgeoning young populations in these countries, skilling is must.  India with 356 million population in the age group of 10-24 years should emulate the successful skill development initiatives and try to implement them on a large scale. The Information Technology sector in India is growing at 9% and contributes to 7.5% of GDP. It is generating employment to 2.5 million people directly. With internet penetration of over 40% skilling the youth in computer software can boost young people’s opportunities for decent jobs and better lives. India being a leading hub of IT and having evolved as a leader has a great potential for job creation in this sector. India can harvest rich dividends if it can formulate comprehensive skill training programmes in this sector.

 

 

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Modi’s visit to Indian Ocean Region Islands

Academicians projected 21^st century as the Asian Century and true to its predictions the two superpowers of Asia, China and India are poised to take centre stage. The Indian Ocean Region (IOR) accounts for nearly two-thirds of the World trade and ostentatiously every major power wants to establish its foot hold in this region. India due to its geographical location and its cultural connect through migration of the indentured labour from Myanmar to South Africa during the era of colonisation has a vast sphere of influence in this region. Unfortunately it failed to ramp up its influence leading to neglect of its ties with its Oceanic neighbours. Prime Minister Modi to reassert the status of India as a safe, stable and secure democracy has embarked on a five day trip to IOR nations- Seychelles, Mauritius and Sri Lanka. Modi will be the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Sri Lanka after 28 years and Seychelles after a gap of 33 years since Indira Gandhi. The last Prime ministerial visit to Mauritius was in 2005. Modi’s visit to the IOR is an effort to bolster ties with the immediate and extended neighbourhood.

The itinerary originally included a planned visit to Maldives but at the eleventh hour, Male has been shunted out. Modi’s visit to Maldives has been called off due to the prevailing domestic unrest following the arrest of former pro-Indian President Mohammed Nasheed, by the current President Yameen Abdulla on terror charges. Reliable sources indicate that Nasheed was arrested as he disclosed Abdulla’s plan of leasing out Laamu Atoll to China for a period of 99 years for $2 billion fee to set up military base. With a crackdown on democracy and refusal of Maldives President to heed to India’s request to stop persecution of President Nasheed, the distraught Indian government scuttled the long planned visit to Male. In the meanwhile President Abdulla flew to Islamabad to step-up bilateral relationships with Pakistan to the next level. China has been eyeing the Laamu Atoll of Maldives and Hambantota harbour in Sri Lanka for its ambitious 21^st century project of Maritime Silk Route which extends from Antwerp in Belgium to ports in China. Since China already has complete access to Gwadar port in Pakistan and wanted to seal its influence in this region by acquiring ports at strategic locations.

The back to back visits of Chinese President in September 2014 and Defence Minister in November 2014 to Maldives has been cause of great concern to India. Recently when Maldivian desalination plant collapsed, India responded immediately by sending five aircrafts and two ships carrying fresh water to mitigate the crisis. China too sent a military vessel and $ 500,000 towards the repair of plant. China is resorting to neo-imperialistic tactics like propelling tourism to these island nations. Maldives though geographically close to India has recently strengthened its relations with China. The three critical areas of interest are tourism, infrastructure projects and maritime cooperation. Increasing Chinese investments in Maldives can legitimately provide platform for strengthening its presence in this region. In 2012, Male airport infrastructure development contract was assigned to GMR group, an Indian firm, was cancelled and awarded to Chinese firms.

Seychelles being closer to African Coast is besieged by pirate problem. China has been actively engaging in anti-pirate mission and reports state that Seychelles in return offered its maritime bases for refuelling. For Beijing with its wider economic interests in Africa establishing a naval base on the island would be a lucrative option. In order to protect its energy imports through the Indian Ocean and to obviate the US and India as security providers in this region, China is keen on maintaining troops in this region. India shares close military ties with Seychelles and New Delhi helps the nation by providing them surveillance aircrafts and patrolling ships.

Former Sri Lankan President Rajapaksha upped ante against India and started embracing China setting dangerous precedents for New Delhi. India was clearly rattled when a Chinese nuclear powered submarine docked in ports of Colombo twice. Beijing is now increasingly drawn towards investing in the Mauritius which has closer cultural ties with India. Mauritius with single largest Indian ethnic group comprises of indentured labour migrated 175 years back from India. Thus, both nations share a common heritage. During his visit Modi will commission a 1300 tonnes India-built patrolling vehicle Barracuda to protect the coast line of Mauritius. He would address their national Assembly and participate in Mauritius National Day Celebrations on March 12^th (the day Gandhi started Dandi Satyagraha march in 1930).

China’s growing influence in Maldives in the form of uninterrupted flow of resources for new ventures and its overt military support to Mauritius, Maldives, Sri Lanka and Seychelles is posing threat for India’s dominion in IOR.

IOR once India’s impenetrable zone of influence is now threatened by the growing shadow of the China. Chinese President Hu Jintao visited Seychelles in 2007 and President Xi Xinping as a part of South Asian tour visited Maldives, Sri Lanka and India last year. China insatiable appetite to extend its foot print and maritime strength in this region is evident by it robust participation in the anti-piracy mission, in aggressively pursuing the development of ports along the African coast and strategic Persian Gulf. Further it is making strategic investments in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Mauritius and Iran. India can hardly object to China’s growing trade and economic interests with these nations but simultaneous stepping up of the military might along these regions is a matter of great concern. In order to trump China, New Delhi must step up its cooperation with these island nations.

Unlike China, India never tried to flaunt military might towards the string of island nations in the IOR. It has been a covert security and maritime security provider to these nations and guaranteed protection during civil wars or military strife’s, disasters, relief and rescue management. In return India never demanded any kind of military, economic or political suzerainty.

India is now rousing from its institutional lethargy and trying to re-engage with these nations. India has already put forth baby steps towards fostering relations with nations in IOR by informally grouping with Sri Lanka and Maldives in 2011 and including Seychelles and Mauritius by 2014. India can’t match China in terms of resource investments. India can proactively engage with these island nations by building and exporting small vessels and ships to these islands. This would give major boost to ‘Make in India’ initiative by pushing shipping industry to build more ships. India can offer its expertise in hydrography by mapping oceans and formulating plans for defence and security to these nations. India with its unending coastline can engage with these nations towards blue development or blue growth popular in Europe. This strategy aims at harvesting ocean wealth through aquaculture, generating renewable energy, promoting maritime and coastal tourism, exploring marine mineral resources and blue biotechnology that promotes job creation.

The past decade long UPA government overlooked the maritime interests of the country in the IOR. Modi government is trying to make up for the lost opportunities by reorienting the foreign policy where India can regain its status as an influential soft power. By extending invitation to SAARC leaders and the President of Mauritius for his swearing ceremony Modi made an emphatic beginning for his long term strategic foreign policy. His penchant for deeper engagement was reflected by his bilateral visits to the neighbouring nations, in promoting the institutionalisation of BRICS bank, strategic tie-ups with Japan, US, Australia and Fiji. His current visit to IOR reinforces India’s willingness to reengage with the island nations and to reaffirm their confidence in India as a trusted partner and ally.

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Road trip to Pinjore Gardens, Kufri and Shimla: Part 2

As we descended to Shimla, we were greeted by the huge towering architectural structures painted in a spectrum of colours. Shimla was the summer capital of the British and after independence, it served as the capital of Punjab province till Chandigarh was constructed. Unable to bear the intense heat of the Indo-Gangetic plains, the British made Shimla the summer capital. To meet the needs of elaborate administrative machinery, necessary infrastructure was developed too. At the very first instance of Shimla, tourists will be captivated by the vivid architectural splendour of the buildings constructed in Victorian style. Shimla derives its name from the Goddess Shyamala Devi, incarnation of Kali. Built on hilly terrain, the city has very narrow, windy roads and managing vehicular congestions is a huge task. Hence outside vehicles are denied entry beyond the Cart road. Lifts operate from Cart Road to Mall Road to facilitate easy movement of men and material up the hill.

Shimla

The place has a majestic aura and a visit to Shimla is not complete without slice of history. We parked our car in the parking lot of Cart Road and  took a flight of steps to reach Mall Road. Roads are at different elevations and could be reached by a steep climb. With every climb the view of the place becomes much better and breathtakingly beautiful. After checking into a hotel on Mall Road, the hub of all activity, we relaxed for awhile and got ready for a wintery evening stroll. Mall road is bedecked with several old mansions which are converted into extravagant hotels that offer a spectacular view of the hills.

Mall Road

Till now, overwhelmed by the excitement of exploring hills, we ignored the harsh winters of hilly region. By late evening, there was sudden dip in temperatures but it didn’t deter the enthusiasm of the tourists to stay indoors. The Mall road beaming with flashy lights from the business establishments is reverberating with activity. We shopped for quality woollens, the trade mark of hills before shutters began to roll down on shops in Mall road and Lower Bazaar (On Mall) by 8pm. It is Valentine Days eve and we could spot young couples frolicking in fun and flashing their best attires Besides being a shopping centre Mall roads houses several administrative buildings too. We had delicious dinner at the famous Gupta restaurant and retired to our rooms. We slept quite early cuddling under three layers of blankets to get ready for our return trip next day.

 

Christ Chruch

Sunday morning we woke up early to explore the city of Shimla. We reached Ridge road which is above Mall road. The roads were very clean for Indian standards. Plastic bags are banned. Hills have a very delicate ecosystem and hence emphasis must be laid on conservation of nature. Ridge Road has the 19^th century majestic Christ Church and provides a beautiful view of the mountains. Across the Christ Chruch is a municipal library and the spacious road had statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Lalalajpat Rai and Indira Gandhi too. As tourists began to slowly trickle out, horses were readied for a ride on this road. Ridge has several fun activities and it is a nice place to hang around. It has a skating rink and several food outlets.

Ridge road

Without losing much time, we began to walk towards Jakhoo hill, the highest point of Shimla and 2 km away from the city. We began to walk along the steep lanes but soon realised that you have to be a terrific walker to reach the upper inclines. After walking few hundred meters we gave up the idea of reaching the temple on foot and hired a taxi. The local drivers are extremely dextrous and can meander through any narrow curve with enviable expertise and skill. The stretch of the road leading to Jhakoo is marvellous, offering a beautiful view of the dense deodar forests. The tall ever green trees are visual delight for every nature lover. Jakhoo is 8100ft from the mean sea level and provides a spectacular view of the ice capped mountains.

State library

Legend says that Lord Hanuman rested on these temples while he was searching for the Sanjeevani herb to revive Lord Lakshmana. Home to countless playful monkeys visitors must be very cautious about their belongings especially spectacles. We reached the Old Hanuman temple by climbing a flight of stairs and along the stair case we could read Hanumana Chalisa painted along the ceiling panels. Located in a tranquil environ, it is perhaps the best place for meditation. We were simply awed by the langar adjoining the temple. It served hot rice, dhal, curry and a sweet dish free of cost to every devotee. We were impressed by the discipline and commitment of the volunteers and temple organisation for their generous gesture. The temple is abode of peace and the picturesque view of the distant snow covered mountains offers immense contentment and felicity.

Jhakoo Temple Premises

The 108-ft huge statue of Lord Hanuman on the hill top is the single largest statue to stand at such an altitude and surpasses the 98ft ‘Christ the redeemer’ statue installed at an altitude of 2300 ft in Rio di Janeiro. As we descended the stairs of Jhakoo there is a temple of Lord Karthikeya. It housed idols of Lord Krishna, Radha and a Sivaling. Visit to the Jakhoo was the most splendid and fulfilling experience for us in our entire trip. After the taxi dropped us in a road above Ridge we went for a Heritage Walk. Though we couldn’t take a guided walk, we on our own explored the inner lanes of Shimla along the old dilapidated Victorian constructions, most of them now turned into government offices and hotels. Walking down the lanes we had a fantastic view of valley and the vastly spread out city and caught up with history of Shimla. Being Sunday museums were closed hence we walked down to Mall road and soon packed bags for our return journey. With a promise of visiting again we waved bye to the Queen of the Shivaliks. Autos, rickshaws don’t operate in Shimla. Tourists have to depend on taxis that run along the Cart Road. The freshness and close encounters with nature and the explicit beauty of the hills have rejuvenated our spirits. Thus we headed back to Delhi mentally vibrant to face the stress and rigors of daily life.

108-ft statue of Lord Hanuman

On the way back to Delhi, we stopped at vegetable market in Solan and shopped fresh vegetables and fruits. Winters being slack tourist season, most vehicles were off the road and hence we could hit the Himalayan Expressway much faster. Once again we couldn’t resist ourselves from appreciating the huge highway which cut short the distance and made our drive comfortable. The route we followed was Shimla-Solan (bypassed Parawanoo and Panchakula)-Ambala-Karnal-Panipat-Sonipat-New Delhi.

Heritage Walk

 

Photographs Courtesy: Dr. T. L. S. Bhaskar & Samanvit Teegela

 

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Road trip to Pinjore Gardens, Kufri and Shimla: Part 1

Of late Delhi has acclaimed a dubious distinction of the most polluted and crowded city in India. The hustle and bustle of the metros prompts residents to seek succour from the din and clamour by escaping to some calm environs. Being travel freaks we spontaneously embarked on a journey to Shimla 370 km from Delhi on Friday night. Hailing from the coastal area of Andhra Pradesh abode of lush green vegetation, nature allures us. The majestic disposition, serenity and the grandeur of hills seemed to be the best place for an ideal get-away from the concrete jungle. Our exhilarated spirits were dampened briefly by the huge traffic of the weekend and we had to meander through scores of vehicles to hit the Chandigarh (NH1) highway. It took two and half hours from South Delhi to hit the NH-1 highway. While driving on NH1 we couldn’t resist from appreciating the commendable work done by the Vajpayee government which focussed on the infrastructure. Though there were number of tolls along the highway it was worth the money as the speed limit was almost 90 km and the journey was comfortable.

Most of the travel advisors often recommend travelling to Shimla through Chandigarh, but having visited Chandigarh already; we bypassed Chandigarh and took New Delhi- Sonepat-Panipat-Karnal-Ambala-Zirakpur-Panchakula-Kalka-Parwanoo-Khandhaghat-Shimla route. Along the highway we travelled for about 140km and stopped over briefly at a brightly lit dhaba near Karnal for a late dinner. On the highway near Ambala we checked into Hotel Amrapali for a night stay. By 8am Saturday morning, we were all set for the final phase of our journey. The hotel keeper suggested that we should definitely visit Pinjore Gardens, in Panchakula on the way. The drive from Ambala to Zirakpur on wintery morning through the fog was a delightful experience. Driving past the lush green fields brimming with yellow mustard blossoms on either side of road was a visual treat. From Zirakpur the NH-22 highway opens up into a 14-lane road leading to Himalayan Expressway before passing through the cantonment area and the industrial area. The opulence of the buildings, malls and highways of Zirakpur bespeaks the richness of the land. This highway besides connecting Ambala to the congested towns of Pinjore and Kalka effectively caters to mobility of traffic between Haryana, Punjab and Uttarakhand. Along the highway, we stopped at Pinjore Gardens renamed as Yadavindra Gardens in the Panchakula district of Haryana.
 

Pinjore Gardens

 

Pinjore Gardens, located at the foot hills of the lower Shivalik ranges, were constructed in 17^th century by Patiala Dynasty rulers in Mughal architecture. Entrance of the garden had an elegantly painted elevated doom. The vast expanse of the garden spread across 100 acres is adorned with fountains in the centre. The garden descends into seven tiers and each tier has a Mahal with grand pavilions. All the Mahals (Rang Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal) were refurbished into restaurants and lounges. Unlike other gardens which are left to public apathy, these gardens are well maintained, meticulously clean with manicured lawns, colourful orchards and aromatic flowering plants. We walked into a regal building for quick breakfast. We savoured hot paranthas in the serene and calm lounge which had a mesmerising view of tall growing Bamboo trees and mango groves.  According to Indian Mythology, the Pandava brothers rested here during their exile enthralled by the beauty of the place. Pinjore Gardens also has a nursery, a small zoo, an amusement park and Bhima Devi Temple.

Next we stopped at the Kali Mata temple at Kalka on the Kalka-Shimla highway. The place derives its name from the Goddess Kalka. Kalka is gateway to Shimla and acclaimed great honour for its illustrious toy train operated on Kalka-Shimla narrow gauge railway line. Inaugurated in 1903 it is now included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. It covers a distance of 98 km in 5hrs and ascends an altitude of 4,735 ft.  Toy train travel offers a bird’s-eye view of the Shivalik hills as it meanders through 103 tunnels and crosses 864 bridges. It is described as the most authentic mountain railways in the world by the UNESCO.

Nestled in the hills, Kalka is a small town untouched by the developments of urban belts. The famous Kali temple is buzzing with activity and thronged by several devotees. We managed to get into the temple before its closure by 11am. The sanctum sanctorum had a small idol of the goddess in marble and the premises were vibrant. Outer corridors of temple had a huge queue of children waiting for a free meal served by the temple authorities.  Legends say that the temple was constructed by Pandavas during their “Agyat Vas”. After darshan we proceeded to Shimla via Parawanoo, an industrial town and has “timber trail” which operates a ropeway cable that ascends to an altitude of 5000ft. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions enroute Shimla.
 

On the way to Solan

 

As we moved up the hill on the bright sunny wintery morning, sun’s rays started stoking us gently dispelling the weariness of the congested weather of the crowded plains. The cold gentle breeze from the woods relaxed us. The hills wore a denuded look as most trees shed leaves in the autumn.  Even the green luscious apple orchards that bear dense vegetation in spring now turned into desolate and dried remnants. The thick dense bushes and wild grasses appeared pale and dull. Trees change their hues according to seasons, being winter, lower hills looked pale and devoid of vegetation. But at higher elevation the evergreen pines, deodars looked ever green, fresh and vibrant. At some hairpin bends we could see houses built at different elevation clearly as the tall trees which hindered the view are now bare. We enjoyed the real splendour, beauty and the ingenious architecture of the hills.

 

Kufri

 

In Solan, the little Shimla, a popular town with agriculture research station we purchased jams and preservatives prepared by the hilly woman from the local fruits. From Solan we directly drove to Kufri 21 km from Shimla via Dhalli bypass. To reach Kufri from Shimla we had to pass through Victory tunnel to Chotta Shimla, and through Sanjauli. Local guide briefed about the history of the 1 mt long Victory Tunnel saying that it was constructed by the imprisoned political prisoners and freedom fighters during the British regime. Before entering kufri, the winter sports capital of India, we briefly stopped at Green Valley. The place offers an awesome view of the thick pine and oak trees spread across the valley and ideally suited for clicking photographs. At the road side stall we had freshly prepared, piping hot Maggi noodles, the delicacy of these hills. With the characteristic fog of the higher elevations disappearing in the afternoon Sun, we had a spectacular view of the valley covered with dense vegetation.

Green Valley

 

Located at an elevation of 2,740 meters, the tiny charming village of Kufri is the highest point in the surrounding region and receives maximum amount of snow. It is very calm and pleasant and offers panoramic view of the snow covered hills. As we reached the place, we could find heaps of snow cleared off from the road to make way for the traffic. We were delighted to find snow covered trees, ridges and the surroundings for the first time in India. But bad patches on the road turned snow muddy and there were large pools of water all over the place. Hence we headed to the amusement park to relish our desire of play with snow. Amusement park with its adventurous sports activities in snow is the most sought-after place in Kufri. It is an excellent place for young and old. After our brief merriment with snow, we drove through the narrow patches of the roads to reach higher terrain. There we found people taking horse rides and rides on Yak along the overwhelmingly narrow hilly ridges to enjoy the panoramic view of the snow-clad mountains. Since it was very cloudy, the view of mountains was hazy. So we dropped the idea of horse ride and briefly enjoyed the scenic beauty of the place. We wanted to visit Chini bungalow but the road was closed due to snow so we proceeded to Shimla.

 

Amusement park

 

Photographs Courtesy Dr. T. L. S. Bhaskar & Samanvit Teegela

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BBC Documentary: India's Daughter

After watching the documentary...I became numb for a while and I cold shiver swept my body. Tears started rolling down uncontrollably. Never before I felt so helpless and desolate and I desperately prayed for betterment of our society and country at large. I may sound very selfish but my first reaction as I just turned off the window was that while we feel disappointed and let down by the small altercations in life, the World around us is going through never-ending quagmire of perils. I really felt so helpless for our mighty, youthful nation-India. The documentary was an insightful social film reflecting the callous attitudes of all kinds of people directly or indirectly related to the brutal crime. My heart sank when I began to slowly understand the state of affairs in our country.

As a woman the grotesque crime committed by the bunch of inhuman, uneducated and remorseless youth evoked intense hatred and revulsion against human beings. I shudder to even imagine what the young woman must have gone through. The root of the gender discrimination, bias, inequality and their prevalence is harrowing. Ignorance, orthodoxy and poverty are facilitating the spread of these narrow-minded attitudes. The ground realities and the pain staking lives of millions of Indians shown in the film was heart rendering. The inhuman living condition of the people living in shanties is an issue of grave threat to social harmony of the nation. The extent of poverty prevailing in the society puts common man to shame. Mushrooming of slums on the outskirts of townships and metros have become breeding grounds for the depraved youth, who are easily drawn to crime and anti-social activities. Especially the unrepentant attitude of the convict and absence of remorse even after committing a horrific crime is disgusting.

The existing gender discrimination is heart wrenching. People attribute a lot to the culture of the land. No culture on face of earth ever teaches or preaches humiliating the individual of opposite gender. It is infuriating as how the so-called educated and reputed lawyers brazenly express their misogynist views and get away without any censure or rebuke. The film brings into fore, deep- seated misogynistic attitudes. The threatening cult of the gender-discrimination is steadily tearing apart the morale of Indian society.

While the implicit social message is very relevant and can help in charting out future policies to bring about transformation in the society, but the general mute and self-obsessed public may not be able to understand the real intent and purpose of the documentary. A mute, impassionate watching of the film just for the sake of watching might indeed do a greater harm than good. Since the existing gender-bias and discrimination is not new to common man. Further, the negative repugnant and deplorable attitudes of the convicts and their defence lawyers would embolden the ruthless attitudes of certain sections of people who perceive that disrespecting woman as a social norm in India.

The film which focussed on the travesty had two delightfully reassuring sources of new change or transformation for our nation. Firstly, the parents of who stood by her and assured of all support and secondly, the scores of young Indians who braved the harsh winter weather hit the roads and forced the inept government into action.

The inequalities of our Indian society are sharp, stark and dreadful the only equaliser can be education. The need of hour is to empower woman through education, make them self-reliant. They should be able to rejoice their life for being a woman. Banning a film in this age of technology is ludicrous. It is time to get rid of the patriarchal structure and stop blaming woman. While there is no doubt it is part of a larger plan to portray India as a sick nation as the maker herself has out-rightly lashed out, but it time to set things right. The fruits of development and progress should reach the common man else, all the morals and cultural norms prerequisite of a civilised society will bite dust. Undeniably the responsibility of bringing about a gross change in the attitudes of the society lies with Indian men and women. The first step towards such change is to start respecting woman and it should begin from home.

http://urbanasian.com/whats-happenin/2015/03/bbc-releases-indias-daughter-on-youtube/

 

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Chile: The new destination for astro-tourism

Ever wondered why skies of villages are so captivating and endearing.....most of us get really attracted to the hinterlands for the dark skies for its natural splendour and stunning clarity. Chile, the South American country has become the new destination for astronomical observations. It is rapidly emerging as the hot favourite for astronomers and attained a popular acclaim of being the astronomical paradise. The clear dark skies devoid of the artificial light deflection are attracting scores of avid star gazers.

The Atacama Desert of Chile with its majestic northern mountain terrain 5000 mts from the sea level offers 300 days of clear nights is emerging as the choicest destination to observe the Southern Hemisphere skies. The extremely transparent atmosphere, isolation, and dry climate are most sought after prerequisites for an observatory. With its coveted possessions, Chile is drawing scores of professional astronomers.  Chile is now favourite star gazing destination to rival New Zealand, Canada and Southern United States.  As a result the government is trying to establish collaboration with reputed astrophysical entities of the World.

Astronomical observations with advanced telescopes help in unravelling the mystery of the stellar birth and can potentially revolutionise our understanding of the cosmos. A massive string of space observation projects worth millions of dollars are moving to Chile. The government believes that by the year 2020, Chile would host 70% of the global astronomical infrastructure. This surging boom would in turn spur technological innovation, engineering and astro-tourism. To cater to the astronomical boom budgetary allocation has been increased to $1.8 billion per year for developing scientific infrastructure and trained manpower. University of Chile in Santiago opened National Laboratory for High Performance Computing to manage the huge volumes of the data created on a daily basis. It is also educating new generation of experts to meet the growing need for scientific personnel. The installation of modern astronomical observatories enhanced beneficial technology transfer opportunities and boosted the economic situation of the northern most region of Chile.

One of the largest installations planned this year in Chile is the construction of the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST) a 3.2 billion pixel camera capable of shooting the colour movie of the Universe. This project is aimed at creating the largest public data base of complete sky to conduct detailed investigation without access to the telescopes. It is similar to genomic research and would create nearly 20 to 30 terabytes of data every night. It also catalogues the transient movements of supernovae, asteroids, comets, clouds and stars. Thus Chile can soon evolve as the global leader of informatics capable of analysing the blazing speed data produced by the sophisticated instruments.

While Chile lags behind the established players of the field like the United States, it is now actively collaborating with other countries to amass technological know-how and trying to build pieces of the appliances needed for the star gazing projects. It is building the World’s largest optical/ infrared telescope, European-Extremely Large Telescope (E-ELT) by the year 2023. Collaborations are underway to build SIMPLE High Resolution Spectrograph- a tool designed to study nuclear physics and planets outside solar system and chemical enrichment of galaxies and a $1 billion ALMA (Atacama Large Millimetre Array) Radio Telescope having an array of 66 antennae in the northern Atacama Desert to search our cosmic origins. Under these huge scientific ventures Chilean scientists are alloted 10% telescope time at all observatories in the country. Thus, the government is on a mission mode to produce 10 native astronomers from a population for every million inhabitants.

Government has realised that astronomy is not simply about scientists, but it is set to revamp the nation as such. There has been spurt in the number of tourists visiting the country, with setting up of observatories there has been a substantial improvement in the scientific infrastructure invigorating scientific temper among the enthusiastic public too. While the heavenly sparkle and stunningly clear skies above are a visual treat to astronomers, the massive businesses are attracted to the natural resources under the earth. The mining business is now threatening the astro-tourism by producing a trail of light pollution. Realising the need to curb the light pollution government had put in place regulation of lighting standards, a legal framework to protect the quality of skies. But there exists a large gap between the legislation and execution as a result the artificial light contamination is slowly peaking. Chile is now largely counting on the astro-tourism and with its huge repositories of observatories and modern equipment it will continue to elude astronomers from all corners. But strict legal enforcements should be in place to safeguard its prized possessions.

 

 

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