Historic Naga Accord

In a remarkable move the officials of government of India signed a peace agreement with a  major Naga tribal group, waging a guerrilla war with the central government for over past six decades. The agreement besides restoring peace in the region also attempts to build institutions bestowing greater autonomy to Naga tribes. The peace pact reached between the government of India and the largest militant faction of the North East, National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah), NSCN (IM) can significantly bring down the insurgent insurrection. While the finer details of the accord and the mechanisms of its execution are still under wraps the move is welcomed by all political parties. Modi recalling it as a major triumph under the flag of Act East Policy reiterated that restoring peace, economic and social progression of North East has been his utmost priority.

To appreciate the crux of the issue, it is worth recapitulating the genesis and epic-proportions of the Naga insurgency tale. The undivided Goalpara district or the Assam province which was under the control of the Ahom rulers of Burma became part of the Bengal Subah of the Mughal Empire after conflicts. Subsequently in 1765 it fell into the hands of East India Company along with Bengal and became part of the special administrative region of North-Eastern parts of Rangpur. After a series of Anglo- Burmese wars and enforcement of Doctrine of Lapse the entire region of Assam was annexed to British India by 1833 (1). British later on captured several Naga territories and consolidated them under the Naga Hills district in Assam. Actually each Naga village was sovereign and ruled by tribal heads and Naga tribes had no common identity. British guilefully permitted the penetration of Christian Missionaries into the region and inadvertently religion fostered unity between Naga tribes.

Nagas were recruited by British during World War I as labour corps and sent to France. But they were alienated from rest of the British Indian troops and this alienation promoted unity between them. Upon returning to their homeland Nagas with few British officials formed the Naga Club in 1918.  Under the government act of 1919 British declared Naga Hill district as backward tract and treated it as separate entity. In 1928 Naga club submitted a memorandum to Simon Commission requesting that Nagas be allowed to have right to self-determination after their departure from India. In 1930’s the Naga tribes under the leader of Haipou Jadonang and Rani Gaidinliu rebelled against British. As per Government Act of India 1935, the Naga Hill district was declared as an Excluded area administered by Governor of Assam.

In 1945 C. R. Pawsney formed a Naga Hills District Tribal Race which evolved into Nagaland National Council (NNC) under the leadership of Angami Zapi Phizo. Phizo considered as Father of Nagas led an armed secessionist revolution and campaigned for a sovereign Naga nation. On August 14^th 1947, a day before India’s independence Phizo declared the independence of Nagaland. Anticipating a stiff opposition from the insurgent group of Nagas prior to declaration of independence in June, 1947 the governor of Assam Sir Akbar Hyderi initiated peace talks. He signed a 9-point agreement with moderate members of NNC. The Hyderi accord agreed to grant judicial, executive and legislative powers and autonomy in land related matters. But the constituent assembly failed to ratify the accord that envisioned Naga demand for a sovereign state with India as a Guardian power for 10 years.  Instead they were granted district autonomy within Indian constitution.

In 1948 an agreement was reached between NCN and Government of India recognising Naga people right to self-determination (3). But NNC under the leadership of Phizo intensified their demand to establish a sovereign Naga state. He conducted a referendum in 1951 wherein nearly 99% voted for an independent Nagaland. Phizo has called for boycott of general elections in 1952 and launched violent secessionist movement. He also met Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1951 and 1952 with a petition for sovereign status and separate electorate for Nagas but was refused. He was later in Burma arrested for illegal entry. Phizo then created an underground government, Naga Federal Government (NFG) and Naga Federal Army (NFA) on March 22^nd 1956 (4). To quell the raising insurgency, government inducted Armed Forces and enforced Armed Forced (Special Powers) Act in 1958. Phizo escaped to East Pakistan in 1956 and lived in exile till death in London.

In the meanwhile government of India placed Naga Hills District under the tribal districts “Part A” category as per the sixth schedule of constitution, as an autonomous district governed by Governor of Assam with a limited representation in Assam state legislative assembly and Indian Parliament. This arrangement was refused by the Naga leaders. Hence along Tuensang division it was placed in “Part B” category as an area in the North East Frontier Agency under the administrative authority of Ministry of External Affairs in 1957. Following negotiations with secessionists the region was later converted into a full-fledged state of Nagaland in 1963, December 1st.

Government constituted a peace mission comprising of Jaya Prakash Narain, Assam chief minister Bimala Prasad Chaliha and Rev Michael Scott that signed an Agreement for Suspension of Operation (AGSOP) with insurgent groups in April, 1964. But relentless violations by NNC and NFG continued to rock the state in spite of the six rounds of peace negotiations. The peace mission was abandoned in 1967. In 1972 government launched a massive counter-insurgency operation and banned the NNC and NFG under the unlawful associations act. Situation was brought under control by 1975 and a section of the NNC and NFG on November 11^th 1975 signed the famous Shillong Accord. Consequently the Naga rebels accepted the supremacy of Indian constitution, renounced arms and demand for secession of Nagaland from India (5). 

But peace still eluded this region as nearly 150 rebels who were away in China and Burma for training during the signing of agreement refused to accept the final settlement with Indian government. Among them the trio of Isak Chisi Swu, Thuingaleng Muviah and S, Khaplang blatantly rejected the agreement and in the next five years parted from ways with NNC and created National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) in 1980. This group quickly emerged as a strong rebel contingent and NNC-NFG became less active. But by 1988 the rebellion within the group resulted in splintering of the unit into NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K) and the names of factions denote the rebel leaders heading them. In 1990 after death of Phizo, NNC split into NNC (A) led by Phizo’s daughter Adino and NNC (K) headed by Vice-president Khodao Yanthan. NNC (K) later merged with NSCN (IM) (6). Each of the splinter groups represents different tribes. Konyaks group is led by S. Khaplang of NSCN (K), a Hemie Naga from Myanmar. Tangkhuls led by Isak, a Sema from Nagaland and Muivah a Tangkhul from Ukhrul district of Manipur.

Irrespective of the tribes they represent, the ultimate aspiration of the Naga leaders has been to merge the contiguous areas of the Naga territories and create a greater Nagaland or Nagalim, four times the size of Nagaland. The putative Naga territory encompasses districts in Assam, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Myanmar. Hence each of these states is wily of such a demand. This desire for Nagalim is so entrenched that even the elected representatives of the Nagaland assembly still continue to pass the resolution on the need for carving out Nagalim. India signed cease fire agreements with NSCN (IM) in 1997 and with NSCN (K) in 2001. While NSCN (IM) has climbed down on their demand for a sovereign state for Nagas, they are particular about the creation of Nagalim. During the ceasefire period violent conflicts erupted between these two rival factions of NSCN.  Government of India held as many as 80 negotiations through interlocutors and monitored by the ceasefire commission with these factions. It emerged that NSCN (IM) has been sincere in its commitment.

NSCN (K) violated ceasefire agreement in March 2015, drawing support from ULFA, Bodos and Manipur militants it surfaced as United National Liberation Front of Western South East Asia. It executed an attack on Indian Army which resulted in the death of 18 jawans in Manipur on June 4^th 2015. The present accord is termed historic as government clinched an agreement with the largest Naga groups which in turn can pave way for bringing other minor Naga factions on board. Prime Minister Modi is believed to have effectively utilised the good will created by Atal Bihari Vajpayee who wooed Nagas with his immaculate gestures and open confessions. He was the only Prime Minister fondly remembered by people of Nagaland for appreciating and recognising their unique history and frankly admitting the failures of Indian government that left trails of blood in the state (7).

According the interlocutor RN Ravi, the ground work for the accord has been done under the UPA government but the indecisive leadership frittered away the opportunity for a major breakthrough in 2012. Perhaps, the recent ceasefire violations by NSCN (K) propelled central leadership into swift action and spurred them to clinch an agreement with its rival faction NSCN (IM). But for the collaborative action of Ajit Doval, interlocutor RN Ravi, Nagaland governor PB Acharya and the Naga People’s front leader TR Zeliang this mission couldn’t have been achieved.

While the details of the initial framework agreement are sketchy, it is believed that since government of India will not compromise on the sovereignty and integrity of the country, redrawing of state boundaries may be ruled out. But the accord might have entailed upon greater autonomy to the Naga dominated regions in the various states. While article 371 (A)   already accords special status to Nagaland, government might consider strengthening it further (8).

The accord signed by Modi is truly iconic as it comes after a long duration of unrelenting parleys of peace negotiations with promise of restoring the peace in the region marred with violence. The pact epitomises the exemplary statesmanship of Modi and his steadfast commitment to make North East region more inclusive. The true test for the government lies in carefully dealing with different state governments of the region, in decommissioning arms of rebels and their absorption into mainstream and chalking out a robust long term development projects for the North East.     

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colonial_Assam
2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naga_nationalism
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angami_Zapu_Phizo
4. http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/nagaland/backgrounder/index.html
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shillong_Accord_of_1975
6. http://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/nagaland/backgrounder/index.html
7. http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/how-atal-bihari-vajpayee-won-naga-hearts/
8. http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/simply-put-towards-accord-step-by-step/

Abe’s Attempt to Reinterpret its Pacifist Constitution

Japan in a major departure from its 70 years of pacifism is making way for a bolder self-defence policy. Annual Defence White paper of Japan which took a serious note of the high-handed activities of China in the South China Sea was passed in the Lower House of Diet. But unlike the defence papers of the US and China, Japan’s report is tipped to stir a hornet’s nest. Post World War II, Japan a touted aggressor accepted the pacifist-oriented constitution conferred by the US. Ever since reclaiming power, Prime Minister Abe avowed nationalist, has been aggressively advocating for overhaul of the defence policies. Despite the massive protests and falling approval ratings and stiff opposition, Abe introduced the new defence legislation for approval in the Lower House of Diet and the Left Democratic Party (LDP) of Abe has managed to get it passed. Japanese majority in fact half of the population is against relinquishing the pacifist constitution.

Annual Defence White Paper

Annual defence white paper reflects the geopolitical strategy of a nation and the congruous reformulation of defence strategies to accommodate their interests. China and America in their defence papers indicated perceived threats and their future course of action. In National Military Strategy 2015 the US reiterating its position as the sole- superpower, accentuated the raise of the revisionist states which are “challenging international norms”, an obvious indirect reference to resurgence of Russia. Russia took a serious note of the US report and criticised American confrontational attitude. Meanwhile Russian President Putin ordered for a revision of its National Security Strategy to 2020.

The US report also alludes to the frenetic land reclamation activities of China and signalled the hegemonic rise of China in the region. America enunciated its plans of putting advanced technologies and capabilities to rebalance Asia-Pacific. Expectedly, Beijing took an objection to the “groundless exaggerated claims of the US”.

China’s Military Strategy, the white paper on defence, on the other hand articulated its strong will to challenge the US, the sole global power. The report reiterated its stand of managing its seas and protecting maritime rights and interests, its desire to emerge as a strong maritime power and the necessity to safe guard its interests in new domains. This report unabashedly testimonies the entrenched expansionist attitude of China.

Abe’s New Defence Policy

Abe’s stead fast move was motivated firstly by the pressure from the US law makers who wanted its allies to accept greater share of burden in regional security. Secondly, it was becoming increasingly necessary for Japan to expand its military fleet to contain the rise of China. During Abe’s recent to America in April 2015, both countries have signed first revision to the US-Japan defense guidelines that called for strengthening the role of the Japan’s self-defense forces. It also prompted Japan to offer logistical support to the US military not only in Asia but elsewhere in the World during war and peace times. Japan was thus obligated to reinterpret its constitution to introduce the term “Collective Self-defense”, whereby Japan can extend military support to its allies or partners even if Japan’s interests are not directly threatened. It was thus incumbent on Abe to bring out necessary changes in domestic legislations whereby restrictions on sale of military technology to allies or partners can be lifted. The proactive stance of Abe is widely welcomed by all the South East Asian Nations, Australia and India; condemned by China and North Korea, while South Korea is ruffled by defence reinvigoration. In the meanwhile South Korea summoned Japanese official as the new defence paper of Japan declared Liancourt Rocks or Takeshima as a part of its territory while these islands named as Dokdo in South Korea are claimed by Seoul. The aggressive buttressing of military forces by Japan is viewed with suspicion by countries like South Korea and China as it reminds them of Tokyo’s imperialistic past.

Till now, Japan has largely relied on soft-power diplomacy and economic cooperation to maintain its sway in the region. Through its liberal economic aids and foreign investments Japan contributed towards economic resurgence of Asia and earned substantial good will. On the eve of completion of 70 years of World War II, Japan unveiled its new defence policy eschewing the entrenched status of tier one strategic player. Unlike post-war predecessors of Japan, Abe assiduously worked towards proactive role which goes beyond protecting its sovereignty over Senakaku Islands.

In reality economic advancement of China, its burgeoning defence expenditure, lack of transparency and aggressive expansion of maritime domains has been cause of concern in the region for the past five years. Abe’s apprehensions about the phenomenal rise of Chinese authoritarianism were reflected in Japanese National Security Strategy defence document in 2013 itself. Thereafter a legislation “The Three Principals of Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology” passed in the Diet which permitted sale of military equipment to parties that would contribute to international peace and Japan’s security. This provision magnified the strategic role of Japan. So far defense equipment was sold to Philippines and Indonesia, negotiations for sale of Soryu-class submarines to Australia and Vietnam are underway. Steadily Japan is equipping the nations facing the wrath of China.

But in fact even the new ambitious legislation brought about by Abe cannot bypass the restrictions imposed by the Article 9 of the constitution, which permits a unilateral military attack by Japan only when it is under direct attack. Any change in the Article 9 requires majorities of two houses and an affirmative public referendum. Hence the newly unleashed Japan’s adventurism is restrained both by constitution and Japanese people.

China cognizant of the new strategic developments is wary of Japan’s potential to emerge as a counter balance to Peoples Liberation Army (PLA). Chinese reverse-engineered technology is no match to the Japanese equipment sold to the states that have maritime disputes with Beijing. This new avatar of Japan is heartening to the Washington as all its South East Asian allies bordering China are able to hedge it but none was willing to join the US to take on China. Interestingly all the ASEAN countries vulnerable to China’s coercion are now increasingly looking forward to Japan as an alternative to counter the rising super power of Asia.

Sino- Japanese Relations

China and Japan ranked second and third largest economies of the World and the most prolific two-way trading partners spurn each other. The East China Sea that divides China and Japan has been the bone of contention between these nations. Relations between the countries began to dwindle following the territorial dispute over a group of uninhabited Senkaku islands in Japan or Diaoyu Islands in PRC ever since the islands were found to contain oil reserves. The dispute ratcheted into severity when China has set up East China Sea Air Defense Identification Zone (ADZ) in November 2013. ADZ mandates that all aircrafts flying over the region has to register its flight plan, and submit radio frequency. Also, while Chinese analysts believe that Japan is using the sovereignty dispute to contain the economic dynamism of China, Japan accuses China of withholding its valuable rare earth reserves. Besides, the relations between both countries were more often strained due to Japan’s refusal of acknowledging its wartime past to the satisfaction of China. Moreover in a gross violation of the 2008 bilateral accord on joint gas development in East China Sea, China continued with “unilateral resource development”. The crisis between Japan and China began to deepen due to the prolific construction activity of China close to the median line in the East China Sea.

Altogether the defence papers of the US, China and Japan which is released on Tuesday pander about the growing conflicts in the Asia-Pacific region. With China metamorphosing into an aggressor, laying claims over islands in the South China Sea, the US and its allies are deemed as counter forces that can rescue the smaller nations in the region.

Implications for India

Reshaping of defence policy of Japan has larger implications on India. Moreover since the area of geopolitical collusion is Asia-Pacific region, India’s larger trade and security related aspects would suffer in case of any potential conflict. The foreign policy regime of NDA government has been evidently outgoing, audacious and ambitious. India’s relations with the US received a major lease for life after both nations sealed civil nuclear agreement in 2005. In fact under the regime of Man Mohan Singh India clenched a strategic partnership with Japan and in 2007 armed forces of India, US, Japan and Australia together conducted joint military exercises in the Indian Ocean. But after India was pulled up by Beijing for its multilateral engagement the UPA government cancelled future editions of Malabar fete. In sharp contrast, Modi government unfazed by Beijing’s objections is going ahead with cementing trilateral political consultations and joint military exercises with US and Japan. India is now actively reaching out to China (and Russia) and eagerly looking forward to work on different platforms with them including SCO a new entrant to the list. Thus India is emulating Beijing that necessarily vetoes India’s sensitivities for its all-weather friend. India’s foreign policy earlier was to diligently orchestrate a fine balance with various countries. In a massive departure from its earlier stance, Modi is trying to bolster India as a leading power.

 

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Tribute to Bharat Ratna: Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

At times when heart is burdened with emotions, words fail us. Truly how can words describe an extraordinary human being nonpareil...? Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam aged 83 collapsed while delivering a lecture on Liveable Earth at IIM Shillong and passed away. With enthusiasm and optimism engrained in every cell, he breathed last whilst his noble mission of reaching out to the younger generation of our country.

Avul Pakir Jainulabudeen Abdul Kalam was born on October 15^th 1931 in the temple city of Rameshwaram to a boat owner Jainulabudeen and Ashiamma, a housewife in a religious Muslim family. Being part of a large family with meagre resources, Kalam started contributing to the household income at an early age by selling newspapers. His father’s stoicism, spiritual way of life and mother’s bountiful love, caring spirit and generosity had a deep impact on young Kalam. Kalam’s childhood soaked with encounters of unique communal harmony shaped his convictions and beliefs. The syncretic fabric of the society  motivated him to read, assimilate and understand the knowledge contained in different religious texts and later on for years to come he remained an ardent believer of science.

While his grades were average during the school days he was bright and very eager to learn. After his schooling in Ramanathapuram, Kalam harboured a penchant to become a pilot but narrowly missed out in the final Air Force selections. Undaunted by failure, he soon reoriented his path and accepted the job of scientist at Aeronautical Development Establishment of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Later he was part of the INCOSPAR committee working under Dr. Vikram Sarabhai. In 1969 he was then transferred to Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and was director of India’s first Satellite Launching Vehicle (SLV-III) that successfully deployed satellite Rohini in the near earth orbit. India’s tryst with rockets and satellites has been a mixed bag of success and failures. During the initial stages of space programme Indian scientists have suffered several trepidations, further intense media scrutiny and high level of expectations put them under immense pressure. After several trials and tribulations India successfully developed the SLVs and Polar Satellite Launching Vehicles (PSLV)s. From 1992 to 1999 Kalam served as chief scientific adviser to the Prime Minister and the secretary of DRDO. After resigning from the post of scientific adviser in 1999 he set a target of meeting 10,000 students. These interactions enlivened the teacher in him propelling him into motivating the younger generation.

Kalam played a great role in developing missile technology including Agni, an intermediate range ballistic missile and Prithvi the tactical surface to surface missile. He was the chief Project coordinator of the illustrious Pokhran-II nuclear blast of 1998 that catapulted India into the group of nuclear countries. India heaved a sigh of triumphalism as the “Operation Shakti” marked by five explosions ended on a high note. While the mood of the leaders was euphoric, India was later ordained for series of sanctions from western countries. In a diametrically significant accomplishment, the Missile Man of India fondly admired for launching satellites and firing missiles developed a low cost coronary stent, Kalam-Raju stent with cardiologist Soma Raju. The duo later designed a tablet computer for health care in rural areas called Kalam-Raju Tablet. The outstanding contributions of this ingenious prodigy hold testimony to his brilliance and scientific acumen.

Kalam’s second innings as a reluctant politician began when he won the presidential elections in a highly one-sided contest against the revolutionary leader Lakshmi Sahgal in 2002. He became 11^th President of India, served one complete term and remained largely untouched by guileful politics. He became the first scientist, first bachelor and third Bharat Ratna recipient to be the head of the state (other two were Dr. Sarvepalli RadhaKrishna and Dr. Zakir Hussain). Kalam hailing from a humble background rose to the highest echelon of the country becoming an inspirational Indian to the younger generation. As a President his warmth, humility and simple ways endeared to one and all. His special love for children and the yearning desire to inspire the youth through motivational speeches and interactions has won hearts of millions. Aptly so he was dearly admired as “People’s President” who alos formulated India Vision Strategies for 2020. Post Presidential years, Kalam completely engaged in academic activities by serving as a visiting professor at several elite institutions. In 2012 he launched a programme ‘What Can I Give Movement’ to stem corruption. 

Kalam’s 79^th birthday was recognised as World Student’s Day by United Nations in 1999. He received honorary doctorates from 40 universities. Government of India honoured with Padma Bhushan in 1980, Padma Vibhusan in 1990 and was conferred with highest civilian award Bharat Ratna in 1997. In 2005 Switzerland declared May 26^th as Science Day to commemorate Kalam’s visit to their country.

 Kalam’s invaluable contributions to society are his inspirational writings infusing optimism and blueprints ensconced with vision for a vibrant India. His autobiography: Wings of fire with vignettes of his life continue to ignite our spirits, add wings to our aspiration and fire our imaginations. All his virtues and traits are truly infectious. His contemplations, opinions and veracity about life are awe-inspiring. Another important facet of Kalam’s personality has been his profound philosophical outlook towards life. Science is exploratory and the validity of truth is often ascertained by facts. Hence scientists in general are very practical and averse to spiritual way of thought. But here we find a genius in Kalam, fondly called as India’s ‘Missile Man’ to be an epitome of spirituality. Whenever he tumbled in life with a failure or a loss of dear ones, he would find solace in the sacred books like Bhagavad Gita, Quran and Bible. His spiritual musings can be traced to his firm faith in God inculcated by his parents at a young age.

APJ Abdul Kalam is undeniably the only President of India who touched lives of people at several levels and has been a true inspiration to millions of Indians. It is indeed very rare to find a true genius to be highly unassuming. While as a scientist of exceptional ingenuity and knowledge he is the Pioneer of rocket science in India. On the other hand, his profound understanding about life is highly motivating. He is perhaps the most humble human being for he believes that values of humanity can alone offer true succour. Here is an excerpt of a deep and insightful saying that speaks volumes about his profound understanding about essence of life. “Joy is fleeting, whereas true happiness and calm can come to us only after intense pain, when we have confronted ourselves in the mirror of our souls and understood the self.”  

Kalam, a simple man from a small place in the South India swayed the entire country with his humble demeanour, enchanting smile, infectious enthusiasm and undiminished optimism. A true tribute to this noblest son of the land lies in fulfilling the pragmatic vision of technological development envisioned by him.

 

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Sri Bhimeswara Swamy Temple, Draksharamam

Revered as Dakshina Ganga, Draksharamam, the pancharama kshetra in East Godavari is one of the highly visited temples in Andhra Pradesh. The main deities of the temple are Lord Bhimeswara Swamy and Goddess Manikyamba making it a famous Shaiva kshetra  and Shakti kshetra.

This region of Andhra Pradesh was popular as Trilinga Desa in ancient times due to the presence of three sacred Shivalingams at Srisailam, Kalahasti and Draksharamam. The Shivalingam at this temple was believed to be installed by Lord Surya.

History

The temple was built Eastern Chalukyan King of Vengi- Bhima between 9-10^th centuries when the kingdom was under the attack of Rashtrakoota Kings.

Inscriptions dated back to 11^th century are found in temple premises which can be traced back to Eastern and Western Chalukyas as well as the Kalingas and Cholas. The inscriptions are found in Dravidian, Telugu, Devanagiri and Tamil scripts.

Mythological Connect

During the horrific battle of slaying of demon Tarakasura, the Shivalinga in his throat broke into five pieces that fell in different places which became Pancharama kshetras. One such piece fell at Draksharamam.

According to another legend, Draksharamam was considered as the place of Daksha Yagna. Since Sati immolated herself at yagna hall, no sacrificial ceremonial yagna rituals are performed in this place.

The place is one of the Ashtadasha Shaktipeetha’s and out of these eighteen proposed by Sri AdiShankaracharya, Draksharamam is twelfth.  This is one of the unique sacred places where both God and Goddess are highly revered. Other pilgrimages which fall under this category are Varanasi where Lord Vishwanatha and Goddess Annapurna are worshipped, Srisailam where Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Bramaramba are adored.

Devasthanam

            - The temple located on the banks of river Godavari is considered as an architectural marvel.

- Sthalapurana says that the temple was built in a single night by angels. The construction of the boundary wall couldn’t be completed before sunrise and it remained unfinished even now.

- It was believed that several attempts were made to construct the wall but it would collapse within few months.

- The unique style of the temple is presence of two-storeyed mandapa supported by massive intricately carved pillars. 

- The four different entrances to the temple located in four cardinal directions are named after four Goddesses- Nookambika, Gogulamma, Moodhamabike, Ghattambike.

- The main deity of temple Lord Bhimeswara present in inner sanctum sanctorum is in the form of Shivalingam.

-The Shivalingam which is 9ft high has crystal texture and when early morning Sun’s rays fall on the Shivalingam, black stripes appear in the upper part.

- The inner sanctum sanctorum has high pedestal built for the archakas to perform rituals. The Lord is accompanied by his consort Dakshyani (daughter of Daksha).

            - The shrine of Goddess Manikyamba considered as the one the 18 pieces of Sati that fell here and is regarded as Shakti Peetha. The Goddess face is looking towards left and is signified as Vamachara Devatha.

-The shrine of Lord Vishnu is located at the entrance of the temple is the kshetrapalaka (guardian) of the temple.

- Within the temple complex there are smaller shrines of Praakara Bhairavudu, Virupa, Nataraja, Vamana, Vishweshwara, Dundhi Ganapati, Goddess Annapurna, Goddess Durga.

-There is a small pond Godavari Kundam near the temple whose waters is considered very sacred and is used for performing Abhisekham (puja).

- According to a legend, Saptamaharishis divided the Akhanda Godavari into seven streams. Of them Draksharama, Vishwamitra, Bharadwaja, Jamadagni known as Antarvahinis have gone underground and merged together as a pond called Sapta Godavari Kundam.

- Important festivals celebrated in the temple MahaShivaratri, Devi Navatrulu, Subhramanya Sashti, Kalyanam celebrations on Bhishma Ekadasi and Jwalathoranam during Kartika month.

Activities of Temple

Laksha Patri Puja, Lakshakumkumarchana, Laksha Vattula Nomu, Ekadasa Rudram, Sahashra Kumkumarchana and Rudra Homam

Other Attractions

Chalukya Bheemeswaram temple at Samalkot

Coringa Wild Life Sanctury

Matlapalem Mahalakshmi Temple

Kotipalli

Accommodation

Nearest accommodation for devotees visiting Draksharamam can be availed from Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) resorts in Kakinada. The temple Trust also provides modest accommodation facilities at reasonable rates.

How to reach

By Road: 6km from Ramachandrapuram

  28 km from Kakinada

            40 km from Rajahmundry

            185 km from Vijayawada

By Rail: Nearest Railway Station is Kakinada.

By Air: Nearest Airport is at Rajahmundry.

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Quirky U-turns and Frenzied provocations: The Gambit of Pakistan

Signalling resumption of bilateral talks Prime Minister Modi reached out to his counterpart Nawaz Sharif of Pakistan along the sidelines of SCO meet at Ufa, Russia. The dialogue initiated by the Indian side ended more than 11-month stalemate with Pakistan. Observers on both sides touted this meet as “ice-breaking” since it was followed by an impromptu joint statement read by the foreign secretaries of two countries, a gesture which raised hopes on both sides. The joint statement deliberately avoided a mention of Kashmir issue and instead it was decided that National Security Advisor (NSA)s of the both countries will discuss all issues connected to terrorism.  The other contents included early meetings of DG BSF and DG Pakistan Rangers, release of fishermen in each other’s custody along with their boats within 15days, mechanism to facilitate religious tourism and both sides agreed to discuss ways and means to expedite the Mumbai trials case which includes additional information like providing voice samples. This statement was welcomed by both the sides initially. Hence the momentum of the dialogue assumed greater significance.

The bilateral meet was followed by welcoming of India and Pakistan as full members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), another platform where both nations can work together towards economic growth. The deliberate avoidance of Kashmir and replacing it with discussions on all issues related to terrorism infuriated Pakistan. Within 24 hrs of the meet Sartaz Aziz, National Security Advisor of Pakistan issued a terse statement, backtracking on all the issues of the joint statement. This significant discordant U-turn dampened the spirit of dialogue completely. All the hopes of revival were dashed as he pronounced that no dialogue can be possible without Kashmir issue on agenda, he quashed the idea of voice samples, sought more evidence from India and further extended Iftar dinner invitation to separatists. A quick turn of events soon ensued whereby Pakistan resorted to 11 major incursions in 5 days. India in continuance with the spirit of friendship reached out to its neighbour in spite of the fateful killing of BSF jawan during the cross fire opened by Pakistan on the day of bilateral talks.

While this is not the first instance of Pakistan transgressing on its promise, it is high time that India recalibrates its foreign policy strategy towards Pakistan. Flip-flops have been the backbone of Pakistan diplomacy. Indian civilian government unlike the Pakistan’s army controlled regime rooted in robust perfidy made sincere attempts to restore peace. But with a change in the leadership at helm of affairs India’s engagement process with Pakistan impregnated with political peace fantasies failed to accomplish a strategic breakthrough. Over the past seven decades while overwhelming optimism was meted out by enthusiastic peace talks cross border violations were followed by long dud in bilateral engagement. This process of engagement and disengagement followed by the Indian side has failed to make any gains. Indian position was thus marred by periods of intermittent dialogue and diplomatic stalemate.

The oft experienced pattern of quick U-turns has been the symbolic approach of our eastern neighbours too who incessantly barge into the Indian side along the LAC. But systematic incursions of China failed to puncture Indian weariness. In fact India has been holding regular peace talks with Chinese officials unfailingly. It is time that Indian policy makers follow similar strategy towards Pakistan. After assuming power the NDA government signalled forces to retaliate aggressively on ground. This pre-emptive approach towards Pakistan should be backed by regular dialogue. India needs to understand that war and peace can together and way forward can be consistent engagement.

While the Pakistan’s witch-craft theories and sinister plots continue to make rounds it is time that India should strategically tackle the combined Sino-Pakistan attack. China having mastered the art of diplomacy recently conferred full membership to India and China to take a moral high ground of its affability towards both nations. India should take a leaf out of Chinese foreign policy strategy. During Modi’s recent visit to China he has extended a high profile electrifying reception and trade agreements worth $20 billion were signed.  When Modi during the course of bilateral talks appealed Beijing to resolve the border issue which has been a bone of contention, Chinese government decided to remain silent.  Instead China reckoned Modi’s visit as most successful visit and hasn’t shied away from making ignominious attacks on India. Further it has vetoed India’s move on Lakhvi at the UN. In spite of India expressing its serious concerns about the proposed China-Pak economic corridor running through Pok with President Xi nothing much has changed. Just as the covert bhaichara displayed by China has been a major photo-op, India should understand the importance of “iron fist in velvet gloves”.

Both Pakistan and China are greedy nations and are hell bent on usurping strategic Indian provinces. While Pakistan wants to confiscate PoK (Pakistan Occupied Kashmir) and a portion of Kashmir valley, China has its eyes on Aksai Chin and Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh. The duo have constructively formulated an India containment policy and inflicted significant damages. Besides, China has been instigating the combined front of the NE militants across the Myanmar border to wreak havoc in the eastern states. Hence India’s pragmatic two-pronged policy should now work towards revving up diplomatic and defence capabilities. Besides India must now bolster its image on the global platform and reincarnate itself as an assertive nation. This must definitely include a strategy where India continues to work in close tandem with South East Asian Nations.

As a propitious beginning to the new strategy notwithstanding the constant flare-ups across the borders, Indian foreign secretary has ruled out that war is not an option. He reiterated that India will give “effective and forceful” reply to the unprovoked firing and cross border killings. While the saboteurs might craftily hitch new plans to derail the dialogue process through repeated violations India must not relent and continue to engage with Pakistan. This strategy will give India enough room to manoeuvre and claim that in spite of its unstinted commitment towards peace through dialogue Pakistan has been the perpetrator.

Modi government seems to have realised the game plan of Pakistan and China. Determined to resolve the border issue Modi has extended a friendly hand to Pakistan by inviting him to his swearing-in ceremony and opened his innings as a Prime Minister with diplomatic dialogues. But Pakistan habituated to border violations and pushing infiltrators was back to its old habits.  In the meanwhile, NDA government promptly sent tough messages across the border by counteracting every unprovoked firing strongly.  Unfortunately talks between the two countries were called off in August 2014 as the foreign secretary of Pakistan wanted to hold dialogue with Hurriyat leaders in the position of stake holder of Kashmir. After 11 months India has reached out to Pakistan for diplomatic talks at Ufa. The new reformulated strategy towards Pakistan for now encompasses diplomatic dialogue and an aggressive fight on ground. The robust plan designed by Narendra Modi, Ajit Doval and Manohar Parrikar to mitigate Pakistani tactics has just begun and its stringent implementation might pave way for a major break-through.

 

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A Journey to Sangla (Baspa) Valley: Land of Kinnauris Part-4

Sandhu Village to Delhi

Day 5:

Nestled in the Apple Orchards, from the hotel room at Sandhu we had great views of the Himalayan country side. We started off by 9am and travelled till Kufri along NH-22. At Kufri, we took left turn and drove along a steep road that went past the Kufri Zoo and the famous Chini Bungalow, a testimony to Indo-Tibetan architecture. Chail is 30 km from Kufri and we have to drive through a narrow road. Unlike Shimla which is swarmed by tourists this road is less travelled and passes through a Nature park. There was hardly any traffic on this road and the serenity of the place was overwhelming. Soon we crossed Khariyal ghati, Munda ghat, Shilon Bagh and Koti, a robust town in this region. Before reaching Chail, we stopped at a village and had hot parathas by the side of the road.

 

Chail is remote town in the Shivalik belt. It is the summer capital of the erstwhile princely state of Patiala. It came into existence when Maharaja of Patiala was expelled by British from Shimla. Aggrieved Maharaja, grudging the insult avowed to clench his hold of this region. He soon explored for a hill station which is within the reach of Shimla and located at a much higher elevation. The village of Chail perfectly fulfilled his requirements. Maharaja soon built a huge palace spread in 75 acres of land in 1891. The huge mansion with all its grandeur is passed over to HPTDC in 1970 is now turned into a Palace Hotel. Chail is built over three hills- Palace Hotel is built on Rajgarh Hill, Siddh Baba Mandir is atop Siddh Hill and Pandhewa Hill has a residence of former British official.

Palace Lawns

 

Weather in Chail soon turned very chilly and with childish instincts overpowering us we devoured ice creams. First we first visited the Palace that exuded majestic splendour. While the palace may not be high on grandeur, the huge expanse of lawns, elegant fountains and pavilions emanated the glory of the Patiala rulers. It started drizzling as we were walking on the Royal lawns soon we got into our car and headed towards the Siddh Hill to visit Siddh Baba Mandir and the famous cricket ground constructed in 1893 atop of the Siddh Hill.

Siddh Temple

 

Siddh Baba temple has great historical importance and according to locals Maharaja Bhupinder Singh wanted to build his palace on this hill and started construction. However after repeated efforts it couldn’t be completed. Maharaja once got a dream where a Saint appeared and told him that it was the place where he meditated and later on was buried underneath. In his honour Maharaja built the Siddh Baba Temple. The quaint place has three shrines with marble sculpted statue of the Siddh Baba in the centre, to the left are the most attractive and beautifully carved images of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, Lord Lakshmana and Lord Hanuman and to the left is the entourage of Lord Shiva. Abutting this temple complex is the shrine that housed idol of Goddess Durga. As we were about to exit from the temple premises it started raining. This continued for the major part of our journey on the hills.

Siddh Baba

We then frenetically searched for the cricket stadium in pouring rain. Just then a young sergeant came to our rescue and guided us to the ground. It stands at a height of 2444.4 mts and is one of the highest cricket pitches and polo grounds in the World. The place which is under the jurisdiction of military school is used as playground.

Highest playground

Other important places of interest are the Chail Wild Life Sanctuary, which was earlier the private hunting reserve of Patiala. Spread in an area of 11,000 hectares it has rarest collection of flora and fauna. Chail is 45km from Shimla and the place with its myriad charms continues to enchant the travellers. Another place of significance is Kali ka Tibba, located on a hill top and 8 km from Chail. The place is connected by a road which goes through thick forests. People visit the place as it offers beautiful view of majestic peaks like Chur Chandini Peak and Karol Tibba. Since it was raining heavily we dropped the plans of visiting Mahakali Mandir and drove towards Solan. While the drive during rain is exciting, risk of landslides on hills makes the drive more challenging.  We steadily descended the narrow windy road and reached Sadhupul.

Sadhupul is a small village and a popular picnic spot. A stream of water, Ashwini flows through the village and visible tracts of land around this place practice step cultivation. The bridge across the steam was broken in 2014 when an overloaded truck tried to cross it. With the collapse of the bridge, the road crossing has become very chaotic. Several vehicles got queued up to hit the narrow road, which is muddy and become slippery due to rain. Some of the heavy vehicles ahead of us made jerky noises and caused a fright. Thankfully we could move out of that muddy pool without much difficulty. Except for this bad patch, the road from Chail to Solan was okay. We soon reached Khandaghat and then hit the NH-22 highway at Solan. From there though roads were broad heavy traffic descending the hills has literally slowed down our drive. We steadily moved past Barog and at Parawanoo we drove along the 8-lane gorgeous Himalayan Express way. Finally we reached Delhi by midnight.

 

Photographs Courtesy: Dr. T. L. S. Bhaskar

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A Journey to Sangla (Baspa) Valley: Land of Kinnauris, Part-3

    Kalpa to Sandhu Village

Day 4:

Morning we woke up at Sunrise to have a clear view of the Shivaling atop Kinnaur Kailash. Kinnaur Kailash with an elevation of 6050msl is considered sacred by Buddhists and Hindus and held in high reverence. People embark on parikrama of this range which takes about 7-9 days. A 79 ft vertical rock regarded as Kailash Shivalingam standing atop this peak is mythologically considered as the abode of Lord Shiva. On a bright sunny day the Shivaling changes colour over a period of time. Legends say that this Shivaling has come into existence since the times of Bhasmasur who upon great penance received a boon by which if he touches the head of any person, the person will turn into ashes (bhasma). As he wanted the possession of Goddess Parvati he wanted to turn Lord Shiva into ashes with his boon. Lord Shiva upon learning about his evil intentions tried to hide from him and he eventually came to Kinnaur Kailash and started mediating for Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu promised to slay the demon. So he tried to bewitch the asura by appearing as a beautiful woman (Mohini Avataar, one of the forms of Dashavatara) before him and made him place his hand on his head. The highest peak in these ranges is Mount Jorkanden 6473msl. The Shivaling was not clearly visible to us during the sunset as thick clouds enveloped the ranges.

Kinnaur Kailash

 

 The Divine ranges appeared stunningly-close and spread out as a canvas before us unfurling its mystical beauties. The unperturbed calm permeating the village had a magical effect and all of felt rejuvenated. Watching the snow capped peaks we had hot paranthas and later set out to explore the village. Kalpa’s centrally located temple group encompasses the Lo Chawa La-khang (Samdub Choeling) Monastery also called as Hu-Bu-Lan-kar Gompa, the ornately carved Narayan- Nagini temple and a recently built tower styled Brahma Vishnu temple beyond it. We drove through the narrow lanes of the village, parked the car and then reached temple complex by foot.

Lo Chawa La-khang

 

Few stone steps led to the porch of the Monastery founded by Rinchen Sang Po. A white chorten in the centre is surrounded by rolling praying wheels engraved with holy inscriptions all around.  Heavy brass doors led us to the sanctum sanctorum whose walls are empanelled with paintings of Buddha and Mahakala and marble statues of three deities were enshrined. The porch of the monastery provided uninterrupted view of the mountain ranges. As we walked past the monastery, we came across the Narayan-Nagin temple. The temple’s entrance had ornate wooden dragons coiled around porch pillars. The brass doors which open into the temple’s court yard were etched with images of Hindu Gods. We managed to glance through the mesh of locked doors of the sanctum sanctorum to have a peek at the idol of the Lord mounted on a palanquin.

 Sanctum sanctorum

 

Out of curiosity I enquired a head lady about the local traditions. She informed that the idols of God are carried to the houses of the people during auspicious occasions to invoke Divine blessings. These events are marked by huge processions. It is also mandatory that Pujari of the temple is a resident of the village. He must be a pure vegetarian and he is ordained to follow a moral code of conduct. Then we visited the Brahma Vishnu Mandir whose architecture and style of construction displayed traditional ambience. Since the idols were taken out for a procession we couldn’t see them. The tower-style temple is reconstruction of the 1869 temple that fell down in 1930 and rededicated in 2014.

Narayan-Nagin temple

 

The resplendent beauty of the place, simple lives of Kinnauris and their friendly demeanour left a deep impact on all of us. With a promise of revisiting the state to explore other rarest jewels draped in the mountain terrains we embarked on our return journey. We learnt from local newspaper that Shimla has been experiencing traffic jams lasting for hours. So we decided to travel by the NH-22 highway till Kufri and go to Chail bypassing Shimla and join the highway again at Solan.

Brahma Vishnu Mandir

 

Bestowed with spectacular landscapes, lofty snow peaks, deep gorges, lush green valleys, fast flowing rivers, enchanting mountain lakes, flower bedecked meadows, fabulous temples and Monasteries steeped in times. Kinnaur district is indeed a traveller’s paradise.

View from hilly terrain

Having travelled along the dangerous terrain the previous day, we were doubly cautious and alert. Luckily the steep road from Chooling Nallah via Urni to Tapri was devoid of heavy vehicular traffic so drove past the hilly terrain without much difficulty. Just before leaving the Kinnaur district we stopped at Tanda Devi temple in Sundarnagar. Driving past Jeori, Jhakri, Rampur, Sainj we briefly halted at Kumarsaini for a much needed car wash. We just sat there watching the busy workers and relaxed for an hour. We bought some fruits as well in between and as we neared Narkanda, we thought of checking into a decent room and explore the picturesque village. But all the accommodations were sold out. Local hotelier suggested us a Hotel cum Restaurant at Sandhu village, the place we stopped for lunch the previous day. Drive from Narkanda to Sandhu was exhilarating as the road goes through a valley of lush green dense legendary deodhars. We steadily drove to Sandhu before the dreary darkness of the night began to engulf us.  After a sumptuous dinner we tumbled into bed.

 Valley of Deodhars

 

 

Photographs Courtesy Dr. T. L. S. Bhaskar

 

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