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NEW DELHI | MONDAY | FEBRUARY 12, 2024

06
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An exhilarating term
PAPER WITH PASSION
Messi confronts
Parliament adjourns for the last time before LS polls
are held and the next Govt assumes office
s both Houses of Parliament have been adjourned sine die one last time before
China in his own way BHOPINDER SINGH

A the general elections, it is time to reflect on the Government's achievements, chal-


lenges and legacy of the past five years. This period has been marked by signif-
icant policy reforms, legislative milestones and moments of both triumph and contro-
China's psychological warfare extends from visa manipulations to Messi's ‘snub,'
versy. The concluding session of Parliament holds special significance as it serves as providing a taste of their own strategy in return
a crucial juncture for the Government to showcase its accomplishments and for the ast year, three Indian

L
Opposition to hold the former accountable for its actions. Over the past five years, the Wushu players i.e.,
Government has introduced a plethora of reforms across sectors, ranging from econ- Nyeman Wangsu, Onilu
omy and governance to social welfare and national security. Initiatives such as the Goods Tega and Mepung
and Services Tax (GST), the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) and ambitious wel- Lamgu, were given sta-
pled visas to travel to China, for
fare schemes like Ayushman Bharat and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana have left a deep the World University Games. All
impact on the nation's socio-economic milieu. However, alongside these successes, three were proud Indian
the Government has faced its fair share of challenges Arunachalis, and the entire
and criticism. Issues such as economic slowdowns, Indian squad pulled out of the
competition in protest of the
agrarian distress, unemployment and social unrest have Chinese sleight. It was reminis-
tested the administration's resolve and elicited strong cent of the 2016 incident when
reactions from both critics and supporters. Debates the Manager of the Indian
on contentious issues like the Citizenship Amendment Badminton team, Bamang Tago,
was denied a visa to travel to
Act (CAA), farm laws and handling of COVID-19 pan- China - he too was a Arunachali!
demic have dominated parliamentary discourse. Much earlier in 2011, a 45-team
Besides, the Government’s inability to take timely action Indian Karate team travelling to
to quell Manipur violence would also be a blot on its China were issued standard visas,
except five members who were
tenure. As the 17th Lok Sabha is bid farewell, the par- given stapled visas, again all
liamentarians must assess the overall progress made Arunachalis. Chinese are past
and identify areas that require further attention. This masters in psychological warfare doubly compounded by the try's Uighur minority - the al level, with whom the
introspection is essential not only for the ruling party but for the entire political spec- and no domain or opportunity is football icon subsequently thin-skinned Chinese reacted Argentinian emotions date
too irrelevant for them to resist playing in Japan, within three furiously, and Arsenal club had back to the 1982 Falkland
trum to understand the pulse of the nation and address people's aspirations effective- partaking a 'ping'. It is culturally days thereafter. The angst humiliatingly buckled under War and Diego Maradona's
ly. Beyond legislative achievements, the last five years have witnessed significant shifts part and parcel of their patented against Messi started early pressure, offering meek clari- infamous 'Hand of God'
in the political landscape with coalition dynamics, rise of regional parties and evolving 'three warfare' approach where with fans booing the 'no-show' fication, "The content pub- moment in 1986. In fact, Messi
voter preferences shaping the electoral narrative. The general elections present an oppor- they relentlessly invoke psycho- on field (which extended to lished is Özil's personal opin- now plays for Inter Miami
logical, legal, and public opinion even avoiding interacting with ion. As a football club, Arsenal owned by the English star
tunity for citizens to voice their verdict on the Government's performance and chart the warfare. The recurring bone of fans or receiving the trophy). has always adhered to the David Beckham, who had his
course for the nation. Moreover, the conclusion of the session marks the beginning of contention is the Indian State The Chinese were not amused principle of not involving itself own 'moment' against rival
a new chapter in India's democratic journey, where the electorate will exercise its right Arunachal Pradesh which expan- and were seen openly ques- in politics". The Chinese had Argentines when he kicked
to choose the next set of leaders to steer the country forward. It is time for political par- sionist China falsely claims as so- tioning the intent of the play- flexed muscle and extracted their captain Diego Simeone in
called 'South Tibet', and therefore er and called out what they their revenge. For the Chinese, the crucial FIFA World Cup
ties to engage in constructive dialogue, present their vision and earn the electorate’s shadow boxing on the same. thought was a 'deliberate and PERHAPS THE ONLY football is particularly impor- match of 1998.
trust. In this transitional phase, lawmakers must uphold the principles of democracy, It's the same pressure tactic that calculated snub'. All hell broke tant given its global populari- So, it is extremely unlikely that
foster inclusivity and prioritise mass welfare. The Government's legacy will be defined it applies with Taiwan and forces loose when just after a couple TIME THAT MESSI ty and Xi Jinping's penchant in Messi would be making a
not only by its legislative accomplishments but also by its commitment to upholding its athletes to compete under an of days Messi took to the DID COME UNDER the same reflecting with its political point this late in his
unfamiliar name called 'Chinese ground in Japan. As it is, declared aspiration to be a 'soc- career, and especially given the
democratic values, promoting social justice and growth for all. As the nation embarks Taipei', in Olympics and other China has major beef with POLITICAL cer powerhouse' with the stat- lucrative contracts he has with
on the next phase of governance, let us reflect on the lessons learnt and communicate events. Taiwanese athletes also Japan. An indignant Global ed intent of winning the Chinese conglomerates. If any-
effectively to our would-be lawmaker representatives. compete under an alien flag Times echoed Chinese frustra- SUSPICION WAS Football World Cup in 2050! thing, Messi has been in the
(1981 agreement with the tions in its editorial, "The WITH HIS Perhaps the only time that news for milking his stardom
International Olympics match in Hong Kong became Messi did come under politi- by signing brand endorse-
PICTALK Committee led a newly designed
white flag with a flower outline
the only one in Messi's six pre-
season friendly matches on
PURPORTED MOVE cal suspicion (indirectly again)
was with his purported move
ments without bothering too
much about the brand prod-
around a sun and the Olympic this trip where he was absent. TO SAUDI ARABIA to Saudi Arabia earlier, a move uct or service itself.
rings in the middle) with an The situation … has magnified EARLIER, A MOVE rife with suspicions of Saudis Incidentally, he had signed
unheard flag-raising song. The these doubts and suspicions on 'sportswashing' their murky up with the now-in-news
Chinese are constantly looking to the integrity of Inter Miami RIFE WITH credentials, by luring sports- Byju's as their global ambas-
score a symbolic and psycholog- and Messi himself." The men with money. But Messi sador, only to be put on hold
ical 'hit'. Therefore, with such fix- Chinese finally got a flavour of SUSPICIONS OF didn't move, finally. Despite a when the company started
ation with political posturing a dish that they so routinely SAUDIS long career he has remained going belly-up.
and insistences in everything serve, even if Messi who is an steadfastly apolitical and Nonetheless, the Chinese are
that it does and imagines, it also Argentine (which little or no ‘SPORTSWASHING' steered clear of political con- feeling insulted and aggrieved,
leads to hallucinations or per- sovereign stakes for or against troversies. With a permanent Messi's likely innocence and
ceived indignities whenever it is China) is not known to make THEIR MURKY house in Barcelona, Messi apology notwithstanding. But
on the receiving end, deliberate- political points, unlike some CREDENTIALS BY took no position on the con- it is a providential taste of
ly or inadvertently. other stars. tentious Catalan-indepen- China's own medicine.
The latest issue of a 'non-starter' This incident harks back to LURING SPORTSMEN dence issue, given its resonance (The writer, a military veter-
by the global football superstar, 2019 when the then Arsenal in Barcelona region. However, an, is a former Lt Governor
Lionel Messi, whilst in Hong football club legend Mesut WITH MONEY the eight-time Ballond'Or win- of Andaman & Nicobar
Kong owing to an ostensible Ozil openly condemned ner has somehow never played Islands and Puducherry. The
'swollen and painful injury' got China's treatment of the coun- against England at internation- views expressed are personal)

Children fly kites in a field in the backdrop of the Taj Mahal, in Agra PTI LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
POWER SECTOR WOES
Sir — The government in Andra Pradesh Well-deserved Bharat Ratna
Synergise regional and seems to be under complacency with the
pittance of Navarathnas Scheme provided
to the poor section. Though the beneficia-
mer Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi when the nation
was facing an extremely grave economic crisis

national science academies BIJU


DHARMAPALAN
ries are thankful for the small benefit they
are equally upset over the increase in the
burden imposed by an increase in the
and was on the brink of bankruptcy, indeed there
were several challenges galore for him, the shat-
tered Economy and several internal security prob-
lems, but with his visionary leadership he
power bill. The functioning of three com-
It is essential for regional science academies to actively promote panies in the power sector seems to be let
loose to function the way they want.
steered the country through successfully.
Narasimha Rao's unmatched legacy secures his
science through regional media and provide regular updates Inadequate planning by distribution com- pivotal place in Indian history. Chaudhary Charan
Singh dedicated his life to farmers' rights, earn-
panies results in purchasing power from
cience education in the regions. These academies are the unique challenges faced private players, who dictate unfavorable he Bharat Ratna, the Country's highest civil- ing the title 'champion of farmers.' A principled

S country is at a cross-
roads, because of the
declining trend among the
well-positioned to address
and prioritize issues that are
specific to a particular region.
by their communities and
contribute to developing
informed policies that address
Power Purchase Agreements. This compels
the distribution companies to burden
consumers with charges like FPPCA I,
T ian honour has been given to three distin-
guished personalities of the country P V
Narasimha Rao, Charan Singh and Swaminathan
socialist, he advocated higher taxes for the wealthy
and opposed luxury consumption. MS
Swaminathan, a distinguished agricultural scien-
new generation to pursue a They can focus on problems regional needs. FPPCA II, True Up Charge. Government who have made monumental contributions to the tist, played a crucial role in India's transforma-
career in Science. Across the related to geography, climate, Regional science academies offices' delayed power bill payments, sub- nation in different sectors. P V Narasimha Rao tion from a food-importing to a self-sufficient,
country, many brilliant stu- biodiversity, and other factors can promote diversity and sidies, and unauthorized payouts of ?1,400 the 9th prime minister of India, was a statesman food-exporting nation, earning him the moniker
dents move towards profes- that may vary from one inclusion in Science by sup- crores to a private company further strain and distinguished scholar of our times. He held 'father of the green revolution' during challeng-
sional courses that fetch them region to another. By bring- porting underrepresented consumers, leading to unjustified extra the reins of the county during a politically tumul- ing times marked by droughts.
a good placement soon after ing together scientists and groups within the region. charges of ?500 and an unfair share of sys- tuous time in the wake of the assassination of for- Ramesh G Jethwani | Bangalore
their studies. No one will wait engagement with Science. researchers from a specific This contributes to a more tem-induced losses.
5 or 10 years to get a good This lack of awareness leads region, science academies inclusive and equitable scien- To add to the woes Smart meters are going However, the efforts of the Reserve Bank his trademark hat, pedaled his rickety bicy-
placement. Even our policy- to parental pressure on stu- help build a strong and collab- tific community. Regional to be provided to each consumer. Each of India and the claims of the government cle, a familiar sight in Baripada. Known for
makers neglect basic science dents to move away from sci- orative scientific community. science academies' contribu- consumer has to bear the cost of it, which are in their place, but the bitter reality is doing God's work, he cared for leprosy
education, forgetting the fact ence courses. It is where our This facilitates the exchange tions to nation-building and is likely to be around? 13,000/-. It is to be that the food plate of the common man of patients in a dedicated home on the out-
that it's the backbone for regional science academies in of ideas, expertise, and developing scientific temper paid in monthly instalments for a few years. the country is still expensive. This infla- skirts. Tragically, Graham Staines and his
building a strong Viksit the country can play a lead resources, fostering a culture are well documented in his- The smart meter lacks consumer benefits, tion is likely to increase further. In other two sons, Timothy (6) and Philip (10), were
Bharat. The trend of student role in building a robust sci- of innovation and coopera- tory. In our journey towards focusing on prepaid and dynamic tariffs words, the growth rate of our economy has burned alive while sleeping in their jeep in
exodus to foreign countries is entific force for the future. We tion. a Viksit Bharat, we should that favour private entities. Prepaid setups been more than 7.5 per cent. But for the a Manoharpur forest."
increasing. The public's initial have three national science It is essential for regional sci- take various regional science benefit companies, while dynamic pricing common man, economic development When Dara Singh and his followers had
encounter with scientific academies in India -the ence academies to actively academies and the National confuses consumers, hindering consump- means that he gets relief from inflation and set fire to the vehicle, they woke up and
advancements often occurs Indian National Science promote Science through Science Academies' by affili- tion planning. Reforms prioritize profits adequate employment opportunities. If tried to come out. But those fanatics used
through newspapers, televi- Academy, the Indian regional language media ating them to the National over people's well-being, urging the gov- inflation is not under control and youth are their long stout sticks to shove them back
sion programs, and various Academy of Sciences, and the channels, maintain regular body. When both academies ernment to prioritize citizens over private not getting employment, then the figures into the fire, till they died close to midnight
other media outlets. The National Academy of interactions with journalists, work with a common goal, it interests for a better quality of life. of economic progress have no relevance to of January 22, 1999. His wife Gladys Staines
reduction in space or airtime Sciences, India. Even though and offer science updates. can foster significant advance- AG Rajmohan | Anantapur the life of the common man. told television reporters, "I forgive those
allocated to Science can be our National Science accessible format. Apart from ments in Indian Science. By Jahangir Shaikh | Mumbai who have killed my husband and my two
viewed as a direct challenge to Academies are doing their science popularisation activ- aligning their efforts and INFLATION RISING sons." After his husband's death, she con-
the field. Many media organ- service to promote Science, it ities, many regional acade- resources, these academies Sir — The Reserve Bank of India is trying GRAHAM STAINES' DEATH ANNIVERSARY tinued to serve leprosy patients and man-
isations prioritise commercial doesn't reach every nook and mies conduct studies on var- can synergise their strengths, to control the inflation rate. According to Sir — A few days ago, on January 22, res- aged to turn his husband's home for those
considerations when mak- corner of the country. Here, ious topics that could affect expertise, and networks to the RBI report, the inflation rate between idents of Manoharpur, a remote village in patients into a hospital. Every year, January
ing decisions about content regional science academies the enhancement of Science tackle scientific challenges April and December in the current finan- Keonjhar district of Odisha observed the 22 will come and remind us about the
allocation. They may con- come into the picture. in society, for example, stu- more effectively. cial year has been 5.5 per cent. The infla- 25th death anniversary of Australian mis- warning signs of religious fanaticism on the
tribute to a lack of public Regional science academies dent exodus to foreign coun- (The writer is an adjunct tion rate is estimated to be 5.4 per cent dur- sionary Graham Staines and his two sons. road to our evolutionary progress.
awareness and understanding can play a crucial role in fos- tries, public perception of faculty at the National ing the entire current financial year. The Graham Staines had been working with Sujit De | Kolkata
of scientific concepts, poten- tering scientific advancement, science and scientific Institute of Advanced inflation rate is likely to come down in the leprosy patients in Odisha since his com-
tially hindering progress in education, and collaboration research, etc. Regional acad- Studies, views are personal) next financial year, and it may remain at ing to India in 1965 till his death in 1999. Send your feedback to:
scientific literacy and societal within specific geographic emies can offer insights into 4.5 per cent. "For 35 years, Saibo, clad in casuals with letterstopioneer@gmail.com
NEW DELHI | MONDAY | FEBRUARY 12, 2024

07
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FIRSTCOLUMN
A JOURNEY THROUGH
The impact and
LOSS AND HEALING
The Buddhist approach offers a grounded
and rational way to cope with grief
evolution of IBC 2016 MANOJ KUMAR ANAND

The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code IBC of 2016 streamlines


insolvency resolution processes and bolstering investor confidence

RAVI VALLURI
he doctor was an early riser. Upon waking he hit the gym. He

T remained fit and in proper shape by maintaining this regimen. The


medico was a noted pediatrician, his wife an eminent cardiologist.
Unfortunately, their only daughter suffered from a compromised heart
condition. The trio had attended a party the previous evening. It was time
to drop the daughter to school and the father knocked at the door. But
the cherubic girl did not respond. Life was snuffed out; tragedy had struck
the family and a pall of gloom descended.
A few weeks back an old aunt had kicked the bucket. It was a double
whammy for the family, and they were inconsolable. Several centuries
ago, in the time of the Buddha, a woman lost her only child to the cruel
hands of fate. In an anguished state she implored the Enlightened One
to resuscitate the dead child. Buddha, the compassionate, agreed to per-
form the miracle. He asked the lady to collect mustard seeds from all
the houses of the village which had never seen death or grief. The woman
knocked at the doors of all the houses in the village but returned empty
handed. Handling grief is a challenging task and only skillful minds can
undertake this responsibility.
The doctor couple who could not save their precious child were sub-
sumed into a cesspool of anger, guilt, sadness, pangs of loneliness, numb-
ness, and a yearning for their beloved one. To overcome their grief and
desolation, the husband, a moderate drinker, became a quotidian one
and his spouse began administering herself sedatives.
Several eminent psychologists like Parker, Arewill and Worden have zeroed
in on the point that those suffering from grief, need to move on from the
feeling of numbness, pining, depression, a feeling of shock and despair

he Insolvency and Bankruptcy enactment of the IBC, India's complexities in the insolvency IBBI have helped to address var-

T Code (IBC) of 2016 stands as


a transformative milestone in
recent Indian legislative histo-
ry. Enacted with the aim of
streamlining and expediting the resolu-
tion process for distressed businesses, the
IBC has had far-reaching implications
ranking in the World Bank Ease
of Doing Business Index has
steadily improved, climbing by
another 14 places to 63 in 2019.
This improvement can be attrib-
uted in large part to the IBC's suc-
cess in resolving insolvency cases
landscape.
One of the key areas of focus for
the IBBI has been the regulation
of Insolvency Professionals (IPs)
and Insolvency Professional
Entities (IPEs), who play a criti-
cal role in the insolvency resolu-
ious challenges and complexities
in the insolvency resolution
process, making it more effi-
cient, transparent, and effective.
These amendments have further
strengthened the IBC and solid-
ified India's position as a leader
for India's economic landscape and more efficiently and effectively, tion process. The IBBI has intro- in insolvency reform.
global standing. In this comprehensive thereby enhancing the overall duced several amendments to Looking ahead, the IBBI remains
exploration, we delve into the genesis of business environment in the the regulations governing IPs committed to continuously
the IBC, its impact on India's Ease of country. and IPEs, aimed at enhancing improving and refining the insol-
Doing Business Index, the role of the THE SUCCESS OF In particular, India's ranking in their role and capabilities in vency framework to ensure that
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of resolving insolvency saw a resolving insolvency cases. it remains responsive to the
India (IBBI), and the recent amendments THE IBC CAN ALSO remarkable jump of 56 places to For example, the IBBI has intro- evolving needs and challenges of
that have further refined and strength- 52 in 2019, marking the highest- duced amendments to allow IPs the insolvency landscape. By fos-
to the process of recovery. It is important for the grieving to accept the ened the framework. BE ATTRIBUTED ever leap recorded by any coun- to resign from their roles under tering an environment that is
reality of the loss, experience the pain of the departed one, adjust to the The IBC of 2016 was a response to the try in the history of the World certain circumstances, thereby conducive to efficient and effec-
environment of living without the deceased person. urgent need for a comprehensive insol-
TO THE EFFORTS Bank. This significant improve- addressing concerns about the tive insolvency resolution, the
Medical science has made rapid advancements such that proper diag- vency regime in India. Prior to its OF THE ment reflects the positive impact prolonged tenure of IPs without IBBI aims to support India's eco-
nosis, therapy, and counselling along with proper medication can trig- enactment, the country grappled with a of the IBC in expediting the res- remuneration. Additionally, nomic growth and development
ger the change agent in the wrecked mind. Alternatively, there are tech- fragmented and inefficient system that INSOLVENCY AND olution process, reducing the amendments have been made to goals and enhance investor con-
often led to protracted legal battles and BANKRUPTCY time and cost involved in resolv- allow IPEs to engage their part- fidence in the country's business
niques like hypnosis and even providing ECT (in the worst-case sce- value destruction for all stakeholders ing insolvency cases, and max- ners or directors in insolvency environment.
nario) to address the problem. involved. Recognizing the critical impor- BOARD OF INDIA imising the value recovered by assignments, expanding their In conclusion, the IBC of 2016
The Theravada Buddhist traditions have dealt with the subject of han- tance of a robust insolvency framework creditors. capacity and expertise in the res- stands as a testament to India's
dling grief in a dynamic manner. The human mind by the process of strong in fostering economic growth and (IBBI), THE The success of the IBC can also olution process. commitment to fostering a busi-
internal resolution can overcome this vicissitude in life by mindfulness. investor confidence, the Indian govern- REGULATORY be attributed to the efforts of the Furthermore, the IBBI has intro- ness-friendly environment and
The process is called Satipatthana. ment embarked on a journey to overhaul Insolvency and Bankruptcy duced amendments to streamline enhancing the ease of doing busi-
The emotionally wrought can find solace and succour by becoming aware
the existing system. AUTHORITY Board of India (IBBI), the regu- the appointment process for IPs ness in the country. Through its
The passage of the IBC in 2016 marked latory authority tasked with over- by introducing a panel of eligible robust framework and proactive
of the reality about the impermanence of events, happenings, and peo- a paradigm shift in India's approach to TASKED WITH seeing the implementation of the candidates for appointment by regulatory efforts, the IBC has
ple. The mind should become strong to accept the reality and look ahead. insolvency resolution. By introducing a IBC. Since its inception, the IBBI the adjudicating authority. This contributed significantly to
There are breathing techniques like Vipassana and Sudarshan Kriya which unified legal framework that streamlined
OVERSEEING ITS has played a crucial role in shap- has helped to expedite the improving India's ranking in the
have proven ability to transfigure the mind from a depressed state to a the resolution process and prioritized IMPLEMENTATION ing and refining the insolvency appointment process and ensure Ease of Doing Business Index and
positive one. Both the techniques have been validated by medical sci- creditor rights, the IBC sought to expe- framework, issuing regulations, a more transparent and efficient enhancing investor confidence in
ence as alternative therapies and have the power to alter the thought dite the resolution of distressed assets guidelines, and circulars to ensure resolution process. the country's business environ-
and maximize value for all stakeholders. smooth and effective implemen- In addition to amendments relat- ment. With the continued sup-
process, bringing it to the present moment. Key provisions of the IBC include the tation of the IBC. ed to IPs and IPEs, the IBBI has port and efforts of regulatory
Several grieving souls adopt holistic measures like the breathing tech- establishment of the National Company In its journey of seven years, the also introduced amendments to authorities like the IBBI, India is
niques mentioned, meditation, pranayama, yoga, chanting of mantras, L aw Tribunal (NCLT) and the IBBI has introduced six amend- other regulations governing the well-positioned to further
being in communion with nature or seva to overcome their grief and restore Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of ments to the IBC, each aimed at insolvency process. For example, strengthen its insolvency frame-
normalcy in their lives. It is the recalcitrant human mind which acts as India (IBBI), as well as the creation of further enhancing the efficiency amendments have been made to work and drive economic growth
a deterrent and needs to be tamed. "Grief is in two parts. The first is Insolvency Professionals (IPs) and and effectiveness of the insolven- clarify the role of monitoring and development in the years to
loss. The second is remaking of life," writes Anne Roiphe. Insolvency Professional Entities (IPEs) cy resolution process. These committees in the resolution come.
to facilitate the resolution process. amendments have addressed var- process and to streamline the (The writer is a chartered
(The writer is a CEO of Chhattisgarh East Railway Ltd and One of the most significant outcomes of ious challenges and loopholes in billing process for insolvency accountant and a visiting faculty
Chhattisgarh East West Railway Ltd and is a faculty of the Art of the IBC has been its impact on India's the framework, making it more professionals. O verall, the to ICAI, ICSI;
Living; views are personal) Ease of Doing Business Index. Since the robust and resilient to emerging amendments introduced by the Views are personal)

Celebrating women in science: Recognising their achievements


Despite their significant contributions, women in science still face systemic barriers, including gender bias, unequal representation and limited access to opportunities
esterday, we celebrated preneurship, ease of living, tions in groundbreaking pro- among students through nological advancement in the engineering and computer sci- Gender bias, a lack of repre-

Y the International Day


of Women in Science, a
day dedicated to recognising
and dignity, mentioning,
"Thirty crore Mudra Yojana
loans have been given to
jects like Chandrayaan-3 and
the Aditya-L1 solar mission,
showcasing their continued
scholarships and research
opportunities, while Atal
Tinkering Labs nurture cre-
country.
Women in STEM in India
have been steadily challenging
ence. Their discoveries, inno-
vations, and leadership have
enriched our understanding of
sentation, and unequal oppor-
tunities persist in many scien-
tific fields. It is essential to
and honouring the achieve- women entrepreneurs." influence and expertise in ativity and problem-solving stereotypes and contributing the world and advanced tech- work towards creating a more
ments of women in the field of From historic figures like pushing the boundaries of sci- skills among school students. significantly to various disci- nological progress. inclusive and equitable envi-
science. This annual event Savitribai Jyotiba Phule, who entific exploration. The Rashtriya Avishkar plines. Pioneers like Dr. Tessy Women have played a pivotal ronment for women in science.
serves as a reminder of the was the first female teacher of The Government has taken Abhiyan promotes a culture of Thomas, known as the "Missile role in shaping the scientific By providing equal opportuni-
invaluable contributions India and founded the first significant strides to bolster innovation in schools, bridg- Woman of India," have shat- landscape, yet their contribu- ties, mentorship, and support,
women have made to scientif- VEERENDRA MISHRA girls’ school, to Lady Abala STEM (Science, Technology, ing the gap between theory tered glass ceilings in fields tra- tions have often been over- we can empower women to
ic progress and innovation Bose, who was the first Indian Engineering, and and real-world applications. ditionally dominated by men. looked or undervalued. By thrive and contribute their
throughout history. It is an has reached 43 per cent, which woman to study medicine at Mathematics) education, Moreover, the government Indian women researchers are celebrating the International unique perspectives to scien-
opportunity to highlight their is one of the world's highest Madras University, to Kamala recognising its pivotal role in provides research fellowships excelling in areas like space Day of Women in Science, we tific advancements. Despite
accomplishments, shed light figures. She said, "Female Sohonie, the first Indian driving innovation, economic and grants, digital learning technology, biotechnology, and aim to rectify this imbalance their significant contributions,
on the challenges they face, enrollment in higher education woman to receive a PhD in a prosperity, and societal resources through the National mathematics, making remark- and bring attention to the women in science still face sys-
and inspire future generations has gone up by 28 percent in scientific discipline, to advancement. Initiatives like Digital Library, and skill able advancements. remarkable achievements of temic barriers. By encouraging
of women to pursue careers in ten years. In STEM courses, Ayyalasomayajula Lalitha, the Vigyan Jyoti Scheme, enhancement programmes via Additionally, the government's women scientists. It is crucial and showcasing the achieve-
science. girls and women constitute 43 India’s first woman engineer, to spearheaded by the Ministry of Skill India, all aimed at nurtur- Vigyan Jyoti scheme aims to to showcase diverse role mod- ments of women in science, we
Recently, while presenting the percent of enrollment—one of Shakuntala Devi, who was Science and Technology, are ing a skilled workforce and fos- encourage young girls to pur- els in science to inspire young hope to ignite a passion for dis-
interim Budget 2024, Union the highest in the world. All popularly known as the breaking gender barriers by tering growth in STEM-relat- sue STEM education and girls and women to pursue covery and innovation in
Finance Minister Nirmala these measures reflect the “Human Computer," women empowering young girls in ed industries. These concert- careers, fostering inclusivity. their passions and break down young girls.
Sitharaman highlighted that increasing participation of continue to leave an indelible STEM fields through exposure ed efforts underscore the gov- Women have made ground- the barriers that still exist in the (The writer is an IPS officer
female enrollment in Science, women in the workforce." She mark on the scientific land- and mentorship programs. ernment's commitment to breaking strides in diverse sci- field. While progress has been and the director RACE Lab,
Technology, Engineering, and also mentioned the empower- scape. Today, women scientists Additionally, programmes like nurturing a robust ecosystem entific domains, ranging from made, women in science still Samvedna India, views are
Mathematics (STEM) courses ment of women through entre- are assuming leadership posi- INSPIRE foster innovation for scientific inquiry and tech- astronomy and biology to face numerous challenges. personal)
06 NEW DELHI, MONDAY 12 FEBRUARY 2024 Vol. CXXXXXVIII 36

Incorporating and directly descended


AMLO’s moment A MEMBER
OF THE

ASIAN VOICES
from THE FRIEND OF INDIA - Founded 1818
It would be unfair to describe Mexico‘s foreign policy under President Andres Manuel
Strategic shift Lopez Obrador (AMLO) as enigmatic. Mexico is what Gunther Maihold of Frei Universitat, Diverging
trends
I n a strategic move, India has decided to terminate Berlin calls a ‘wannabe leading power‘. Despite his leftist credentials, President AMLO

S
the decades-old visa-free movement policy with seems content with Mexico remaining a reluctant middle power outh Korea’s policymakers on
Myanmar, citing national security concerns and the Wednesday received two posi-
imperative to preserve the demographic structure of its tive signals that share largely the
north-eastern states sharing a border with Myanmar. same conclusion: A recovery in
This decision, announced by Union Home Minister exports continues to ease the econom-
Amit Shah, comes in the wake of escalating tensions ic slowdown.
and the need to fortify the 1,643-km border, a move that The first piece of good news came
has stirred debates on the delicate balance between from the Bank of Korea, whose prelim-
security measures and humanitarian considerations. inary data shows the country recorded
a current account surplus for the
The Free Movement Regime, allowing visa-free travel
eighth month in a row in December,
within a 16-km zone on either side of the border, was a helped by an increase in trade surplus
symbol of the historical ties between the two nations. and dividends from overseas.
However, the recent surge of civilians and troops fleeing The second piece of upbeat news
Myanmar following the military coup in 2021 has was reported by the state-run Korea
strained this relationship. The fear in New Delhi is not Development Institute. In its econom-
merely about accommodating refugees but also the ic trend report, the KDI pinpointed the
potential spill over of communal tensions, transforming recovery of exports, driven by semi-
the north-eastern states into a melting pot of ethnic conductors, as a factor that is softening
the economic slowdown.
conflicts. It cannot be overlooked that for almost a year,
For government officials, especial-
Manipur has been grappling with violence fuelled by ly those mapping out export policies, a
ethnic strife. The decision to end the visa-free move- continued recovery in exports that
ment is a calculated move to curb the potential exacer- makes related economic figures more
bation of tensions in the region. Some government offi- reassuring is certainly a welcome
cials have pointed fingers at the porous international development.
border, especially given the cultural and familial con- But their renewed optimism may
nections shared with Myanmar’s Chin tribe. The esca- be put to the test in the coming
lating conflict within Myanmar, with a pro-democracy months, due to slowing private con-
rebellion challenging the military junta, has further sumption and weak facility investment
that could dent the country’s overall
complicated the situation. India’s advice to its citizens in economic growth. The widening diver-
Myanmar’s border Rakhine state to leave immediately gence between recovering exports and
underscores the severity of the security conditions. The sluggish domestic consumption also
influx of more than 700 Myanmar troops seeking safe means that things could look far less
passage through India indicates the real and immediate optimistic if Korea’s exports confront
impact of the crisis. While the decision to scrap the abrupt obstacles.

A
movement policy may be seen as a necessary step for crossroads. Rising multipolari- separation of state from church, posted in the American embassy After all, there remain a host of
internal security, it raises ethical questions about India’s member of the Organi- ty, harder solutions, institution- AMLO occasionally visits the monitor if Mexico complies with potentially negative factors such as
sation for Economic al inertia, and institutional frag- church to present his “cartilla the new labour regulations. It growing geopolitical risks that could
responsibility in the face of a humanitarian crisis. The
Cooperation and mentation characterise the con- moral” (moral handbook). would have been unimaginable disrupt supply chains and jack up oil
suspension of a longstanding policy that facilitated Development (OECD) temporary world. More significantly, Mexico in the past.
movement for border residents should ideally be and the third richest country in AMLO has thus created a under AMLO’s leadership has His mercurial style has its
accompanied by measures to address the welfare and Latin America in PPT per capita new foreign policy narrative taken a lead in feminising for- own litany of critics. Not every-
protection of those affected. How India navigates this terms, Mexico indubitably is a which flows from Mexico being eign policy. one likes his denunciations of prices, as well as interest rates that
fine line between safeguarding its security and uphold- rising middle power. But it does a “bi-regional nation.” Mexico On the Feminist Foreign critics as a “corrupt neoliberal continue to stay high.
ing its humanitarian commitments will be closely scru- not behave like one. It often pur- is anchored economically in Policy Index, Mexico ranks in elite”, accused of working Encouragingly, the country’s cur-
tinized. Furthermore, the lack of an immediate response sues atypical foreign policy. At North America while historically the top three countries, along against what he calls “ordinary rent account surplus stood at $7.41 bil-
from Myanmar’s junta spokesperson adds an element of times its foreign policy behav- and culturally it remains Latin with Sweden and Norway. Fem- Mexicans.” lion in December, up from a surplus
uncertainty to the situation. The geopolitical dynamics iour is one of principled prag- American. inist foreign policy Gideon Rachman of Finan- of $3.89 billion in November. During
matism, at others it appears as According to a has raised the pro- cial Times has maintained that the same period, the goods account
between the two countries, already complicated by the what London’s influential Econ- survey conducted file of Mexico’s AMLO has “undermined key surplus increased from $6.88 billion to
changing political landscape in Myanmar, will undoubt- omist magazine calls “erratic by Centro de In- international lead- state institutions, driving out $8.04 billion.
edly play a pivotal role in shaping the aftermath of this and unprincipled.” vestigacion Y Do- ership on gender. independent civil servants, pro- In total, Korea posted a current
policy shift. India’s decision to end visa-free movement It would be unfair to cencia Econo- Feminist for- moting loyalists…and denounc- account surplus of $35.49 billion,
with Myanmar reflects the complex challenges at its describe Mexico’s foreign poli- micas, 44 per cent eign policy has ing judges who displease him.” marking a 37.4 percent increase from
borders. Striking a balance between national security cy under President Andres of Mexicans con- gone a long way in The much-hyped ‘Tren $25.8 billion recorded in 2022 and
imperatives and humanitarian considerations is an Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO) sider it most ap- reducing gender Maya’ too has incurred criticism exceeding the central bank’s earlier
intricate task. The evolving situation demands a as enigmatic. Mexico is what propriate for the gaps. It encom- from many quarters. As part of projection of $30 billion by a wide mar-
nuanced approach that not only addresses immediate Gunther Maihold of Frei Univer- country to partici- passes a gender President AMLO’s fourth trans- gin. The higher-than-expected surplus
security concerns but also acknowledges the broader sitat, Berlin calls a “wannabe pate in the region perspective and a formation, ‘Tren Maya’ covers resulted from a rebound in exports,
leading power.” with other coun- ASH NARAIN feminist agenda five states connecting beach which jumped 5.8 percent on-year in
geopolitical and humanitarian dimensions of the crisis.
Despite his leftist creden- tries without the ROY abroad, parity resorts to ancient Mayan sites of December, an increase for the three
tials, President AMLO seems pretention to be- within the Foreign the Yucatan Peninsula. Those straight month. Exports began to

Dimming lights?
The writer is director,
content with Mexico remaining come a leader. Institute of Social Sciences, Ministry, visible who oppose the project call it recover in October, after a 14-month-
Delhi
a reluctant middle power. The President AMLO equality and femi- an imposition on the indigenous long slump.

I
reasons are not hard to find. has said again and nism in all areas of people. Environmentalists are By export item, semiconductors
n the evolving landscape of social media, a metamor- Mexican foreign policy again that “the best foreign poli- foreign ministry. concerned the tracks will cut and vehicles led the upsurge in the
phosis is underway, subtly reshaping the way we expert Olga Pellicer de Brody cy is domestic policy.” Perhaps About half of the cabinet through virgin forest and jaguar December current account surplus by
connect, share, and consume content. As Facebook provides the answer to this puz- that explains why AMLO hardly and members of Congress are habitats. The most vocal oppo- posting 19.1 percent and 19.2 percent
reaches the milestone of two decades, its presence is zle. She argues that a major goes abroad unlike his prede- female. It is also replicated at nents are of course the Zapatis- year-on-year increases, respectively.
not without controversy, yet it stands as a testament to obstacle for “an improved Mexi- cessors. He is yet to undertake a lower levels of government and tas. President AMLO is among By region, exports to the US rose 20.7
the enduring allure and economic prowess of digital can position in international visit outside the Americas. officials. few global leaders who contin- percent, while shipments to Southeast
politics” has been “the difficulty Before travelling to San Currently, Mexico is in the ue to maintain a very high Asia went up 15.4 percent.
social platforms. However, beneath the surface of seem-
of defining the country’s specific Francisco in November 2023 to midst of elections. The next approval rating of over 60 The BOK forecast the current
ingly unchanging giants, a nuanced transformation is regional identity as a north- participate in the APEC Summit, President will be a woman as the per cent. Not just his leftist cre- account surplus in 2024 would expand
unfolding, challenging our perceptions of what it means ward-gazing country or as an he said that “it’s going to be, two candidates of the leading dentials but also his austere to $49 billion, aided by a recovery in
to be ‘social’ online. The once-conjoined realms of per- outstanding Latin American like, you arrive a day before, political parties are women. style have kept his popular exports. The KDI noted similarly posi-
sonal interactions and mass communication are under- leader.” sleep, participate, eat ~ and It will be a first in Mexico image. He has cut down his tive trends in exports in its monthly
going a quiet divorce. Status updates, once the heartbeat Mexico has been described come home.” He is into the sixth though Chile, Costa Rica, Brazil, salary and he travels only in report, saying that outbound ship-
of platforms like Facebook, are eclipsed by a flood of as a future fifth power by a study year of the presidency and he Argentina, Nicaragua, Panama economy class. ments jumped 18 percent on-year in
videos resembling an overstimulated TV experience. carried out by Goldman Sachs. was out of Mexico only on six and Honduras have had women Mexican novelist and essay- January, compared with an increase of
This shift is not arbitrary. It mirrors a broader trend Currently, Mexico lags behind occasions. presidents. Mexico has its own ist Jorge Volpi says that though 5 percent a month earlier.
across social media, with platforms increasingly serv- China, India, Brazil and Russia, President AMLO sees him- share of problems. The drug- President AMLO portrays him- The growth was powered by solid
but by 2040 it will become the self in the mould of legendary related gang war, attacks of crit- self “as a radical progressive”, demand for semiconductors, which
ing users an algorithmically curated diet of content fifth largest economic power. President Benito Juarez and not ical media and the overall secu- his policies have “benefited the posted a whopping 56.2 percent surge
based on viewing behaviour rather than social connec- It has overtaken China as so much as a Latin American rity challenges continue to country’s wealthiest business in exports last month. Exports of cars
tions. In this brave new world, the digital town square, the leading source of goods leftist. He has himself admitted bedevil AMLO’s presidency. interests”. also sprinted 24.8 percent on-year in
as Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg terms it, is being imported to the US. Now it has that “would like to go down in His periodic denounce- He is not a “textbook pop- January.
dismantled and reconstructed, bringing forth a set of become a supply chain re- history (as) what Juarez, ‘bene- ment of critics including the ulist” like Hugo Chavez and The KDI said exports softened the
complex challenges. What is striking is the paradox of shoring leader. merito de las Americas’ (distin- media persons in his morning Donald Trump but he is also not economic slowdown but warned about
the new social media landscape ~ it’s becoming less President AMLO’s pragma- guished Latin American) did.” press conferences hasn’t gone like “any democratic leader.” continued problems with slow private
social. Inspired by platforms like TikTok, social apps are tism is understandable. The Explaining what AMLO sees down well with many. All said, bringing peace in consumption and facility investment,
steering away from personal connections, favouring return of geopolitics portends a in Juarez, renowned historian AMLO’s policy to stop Cen- the drug war and eliminating citing persistently high interest rates
rocky road for foreign policy Lorenzo Meyer says that “he tral American migrants at Mexi- the power mafia that AMLO as one of the key factors. In detail,
content curated by artificial intelligence. The very
and international cooperation sees a political leader with a task co’s southern border may be a promised in 2018 remain a work retail sales, reflecting private spending,
essence of social media, which once thrived on the which have always depended on that is almost impossible.” pragmatic move to avoid new in progress. It may not be Mexi- dropped 2.2 percent on-year in
diversity of individual expressions, is giving way to a convergence of great power Another historian Maria de los US tariffs. co’s hour. But it is certainly December. Sales of passenger cars and
more streamlined, algorithm-driven experience. As interests. Angeles Magdaleno contends But it poses a big moral AMLO’s hour. He easily wins the food items fell 9.7 percent and 5.2 per-
users post less, public sharing retreats to closed groups Global politics is at the that while Juarez was for a strict dilemma. Today labour attaches battle of public opinion. cent, respectively.
reminiscent of the intimacy found in email exchanges.
The town square, once bustling with diverse voices, is LETTERS TO THE EDITOR editor@thestatesman.com
dimming its lights. The consequences of this transfor-
mation are multifaceted. On the positive side, closed

Flawed state
has always been belied. Despite remain peripheral and synthetic. either.
groups provide a refuge where political campaigners
coming into existence 75 years Pakistan has long been led by cir- The resurrection of Nawaz
are forced to tailor their messages for a more nuanced ago, Pakistan is still seeking an cumstances and very seldom by Sharif into Pakistan politics today
audience. The reduction of sensationalism in chrono- authentic and true democracy. its leaders. The Army today would cannot alter the nation's flawed
logical messaging apps might be a boon for mental SIR, Apropos “Darkness at noon” Vendetta is cyclical and a From weak political parties, be reluctant to preside over a col- genetic makeup, as weak institu-
health, particularly for teenagers navigating the com- by Mahir Ali (8 February), Pak- change of guard at the highest unsteady institutions, lack of lapsing economy. tions cannot serve as the stabilis-
plex terrain of online scrutiny. Yet, this shift comes with istan is in relentless unease, and echelons, be it civilian or the political awareness, Pakistan cov- To boot, its visceral dislike ing anchor in its relentless and
its own set of challenges. Messaging apps, often unmod- stays undeveloped. The feudal army, seldom led to improved ers it all. for India having became a pho- uncertain drift.
erated, can become breeding grounds for misinforma- roots go deep in Pakistan and stability. For a nation looking con- bia, we can expect little pragma- Yours, etc., R Narayanan,
tion, amplified by the sheer scale of unregulated broad- rivalry has transcended time. Its trust on the military chief stantly inward , any change could tism or statesmanship from Navi Mumbai, 8 February.
casts. The dwindling importance of open networks, cou-
pled with the decline in public posting, poses a risk to
the spread of ideas and critical conversations. While MASS HYPNOSIS
closed groups offer a sheltered space, they also con-
tribute to the erosion of open dialogue, hindering the SIR, I thank Mr Arvind Saxena for his succinct article on
free flow of information. The algorithmic shift from Perils Of IT( February 5 and 6). I fully agree with the author
user-driven curation to behaviour-based content dis- that personal data is being “mined” as raw input for IT and AI
tribution raises concerns about the unintentional industries.
endorsement of provocative material. Amidst these Social media has cast a mass hypnosis on us while those
challenges, the pendulum has swung away from genu- who are aware of the perils watch helplessly. There is little
debate on the subject. IT has been allowed to fleece the ignorant
ine news, leaving a void filled with entertaining con-
as well as the informed public.
tent. The once-aspired personalized newspaper has Unless governments wake up and start regulating the IT
given way to platforms dominated by entertainment, and AI industries, we will end up as zombies on earth with less
with news comprising a mere 3 per cent of content on and less of things essential to sustain life.
some networks. The consequences extend beyond indi- Yours, etc.,
vidual platforms, affecting the broader media landscape, Sarmishta Pradhan,
leading to the demise of outlets relying on social distri- Kolkata, 8 February.
bution.
NEW DELHI, MONDAY 12 FEBRUARY 2024 07
The many existential
100 YEARS AGO

OCCASIONAL NOTE
Some further explanation is needed
regarding the report that locomotives for

threats that we face


Indian railways have been ordered from
Germany. According to our London cor-
respondent the India Office has no infor-
mation of the kind, but it has been
announced by the North British Loco-
motive Company that an order for five
engines has been definitely given to a
Hanover firm; while German tenders
have been sent in for fifty more, orders
BHARAT DOGRA ring in intelligence, surveillance, for which have not yet been placed. By a
reconnaissance, simulation, and coincidence, a similar question has aris-

T
he Doomsday Clock innovat- training. Of particular concern are en in Australia, with the difference that
ed by the Bulletin of Atomic lethal autonomous weapons, which objection is raised not to German but to
Scientists has gained wide- identify and destroy targets without British competition. Members of the Aus-
spread recognition as a sym- human intervention. Decisions to put tralian Boilermakers' Society are said to
bol of the existential threat facing AI in control of important physical be protesting strenuously because the
humanity. In this imagined clock mid- systems - in particular, nuclear Commonwealth Government are invit-
night is regarded as the catastrophic weapons - could indeed pose a direct ing tenders in Great Britain as well as
moment humanity must avoid under existential threat to humanity.” Australia for the construction of locomo-
all conditions to escape an existential Initial steps to check such serious tive engines required for a South Aus-
threat. In the statement released in emerging threats include an interna- tralian railway. From the boilermakers'
late January 2024, the clock has been tional declaration to address AI risks point of view the main consideration is to
set at just 90 seconds to midnight, and the formation of a new UN advi- keep the work in their own country at
conveying the extreme seriousness of sory body. However these are only their own price, whatever the taxpayers
the existential crisis. “tiny steps”, this statement says, and may have to pay. The story of the orders
This latest Doomsday Clock much more must be done to institute said to have been given to the Hanover
statement (henceforth referred to as effective rules and norms. firm is not quite on all fours with the Aus-
DC24 statement) says, “Ominous In its conclusion which will find tralian case. We have yet to be convinced
trends continue to point the world wide support, the DC24 statement that British locomotive-builders cannot
toward global catastrophe. The war in says, “Everyone on Earth has an inter- compete with any others in the world
Ukraine and the widespread and est in reducing the likelihood of global under ordinary economic conditions,
growing reliance on nuclear weapons catastrophe from nuclear weapons, and they have at least some right to be
increase the risk of nuclear escalation. climate change, advances in the life assured that the German competition in
China, Russia, and the United States sciences, disruptive technologies, and this case is fair.
are all spending huge sums to expand the widespread corruption of the
or modernize their nuclear arsenals, world’s information ecosystem. These NEWS ITEMS
adding to the ever-present danger of threats, singularly and as they inter-
nuclear war through mistake or mis-
calculation.” Further in 2023, Earth
sia, and the United States - threaten to
trigger a three-way nuclear arms race
tinued to rise. Both global and North
Atlantic sea-surface temperatures
involved the dramatic advance of
generative artificial intelligence. The
act, are of such a character and mag-
nitude that no one nation or leader CHURCH COLLAPSE
experienced its hottest year on record, as the world’s arms control architec- broke records, and Antarctic sea ice apparent sophistication of chatbots can bring them under control. That is Built after the capture of Seringap-
and massive floods, wildfires, and ture collapses. At the same time, Iran reached its lowest daily extent since based on large language models, such the task of leaders and nations work- atam and the destruction of the power
other climate-related disasters affect- continues to enrich uranium to close the advent of satellite data. The world as ChatGPT, led some respected ing together in the shared belief that of Tippu Sultan in Mysore, St. Mark's
ed millions of people around the to weapons grade while stonewalling invested $1.7 trillion in clean energy in experts to express concern about common threats demand common Church, Bangalore, has suffered in the
world. the International Atomic Energy 2023 but at the same time there were existential risks arising from further action.” past twenty years from a strange fatal-
The members of the Science and Agency on key issues. Efforts to rein- fossil fuel investments of nearly $1 rapid advancements in the field. In terms of a more immediate ism. First, its tower, intended for a Coro-
Security Board set the Doomsday state an Iran nuclear deal appear trillion. However others argue that claims suggestion this statement adds that nation peals of bells to commemorate
Clock at two minutes to midnight in unlikely to succeed, this statement Drawing attention to more newly about existential risk distract from the “despite their profound disagree- the late King Edward, came down one
2019 and at 100 seconds to midnight says, while North Korea continues emerging threats, this statement real and immediate threats that AI ments, three of the world’s leading evening, only a few minutes after the
in 2022. In 2023 they expressed building nuclear weapons and long- points out that the revolution in life poses today. powers - the United States, China, and choristers had left after their weekly
heightened concern by moving the range missiles. sciences and associated technologies The DC24 statement asserts that Russia - should commence serious practice; then, a year ago within a few
Clock to 90 seconds to midnight - the Drawing attention to the latest continued to expand in scope last AI has great potential to magnify dis- dialogue about each of the global days, the edifice was entirely burnt out
closest to global catastrophe it has threat to emerge to world peace, this year, including, especially, the information and corrupt the informa- threats outlined here. At the highest by the carelessness of a burglar carrying
ever been and in 2024 this has been statement says that the war in Gaza increased sophistication and efficien- tion environment on which democra- levels, these three countries need to a candle, now, when the scattered con-
retained at the same level. The DC24 between Israel and Hamas has the cy of genetic engineering technolo- cy depends. AI-enabled disinforma- take responsibility for the existential gregation have been looking forward to
statement says, “World’s leaders must potential to escalate into a wider Mid- gies. One issue of special concern tion efforts could be a factor that pre- danger the world now faces. They the restoration of service at Easter, the
respond urgently, as if today were the dle Eastern conflict that could pose highlighted in this statement is the vents the world from dealing effec- have the capacity to pull the world entire roof, except the dome, has come
most dangerous moment in modern unpredictable threats, regionally and convergence of emerging artificial tively with nuclear risks, pandemics, back from the brink of catastrophe. down. During the War, over 30,000
history.” globally. intelligence tools and biological tech- and climate change, this statement They should do so, with clarity and troops were massed in the station at one
Listing the growing threat of Regarding climate change, this nologies which may radically empow- says. courage, and without delay.” time and they overflowed into the
nuclear weapons in various countries, statement says that the world in 2023 er individuals to misuse biology. Drawing attention to very big grounds.
this statement asserts that nuclear entered uncharted territory as it suf- As this statement emphasizes, emerging threats, this statement says, (The writer is Honorary Convener, Campaign to
Save Earth Now. His recent books include
spending programmes in the three
largest nuclear powers - China, Rus-
fered its hottest year on record and
global greenhouse gas emissions con-
one of the most significant techno-
logical developments in the last year
“Military uses of AI are accelerating.
Extensive use of AI is already occur-
Planet in Peril, Protecting Earth for Children
and A Day in 2071.) BRIGHT OUTLOOK
IN EGYPT
IT CAME TO MIND | MANISH NANDY Official information from Cairo
shows that the best impression has been

A town, a tour, a statue


made upon Egyptian public opinion by
the action of the British Government in
agreeing to the release of practically all
prisoners sentenced by military courts.

H
ere I am, in a country very Debora Arango that I had long wanted India I had known and loved. This In notifying this decision to Zaghlul
different from where I live. to see. Her extraordinary nudes have a time, by straying from the big cities, Pasha, the Egyptian Premier, Mr. Kerr,
Very different too from way of conveying the disturbing story Rio Negro unraveled another aspect the British Acting High Commissioner,
where I was born. But of women and the later paintings are of the country. And, then, to my sur- declared that with a view to consolidating
strangely I feel at home here. I find even more disturbing with their per- prise, I found something unexpected the relations of friendship between Great
the people congenial. The city feels spective of official violence. and remarkable. Rupert Brooke, a Britain and Egypt, the British Govern-
very hospitable. You can ask a ques- I like to make strange detours, promising English poet, who died on ment are willing to assent to as wide a
tion of a stranger – usually where I can straying from a planned itinerary, his way to Gallipoli during World War measure of indemnity as possible, and
find a café or a pharmacy or a news- sometimes on a whim and sometimes I and was hurriedly buried on the they would therefore sanction the release
paper stall – and people readily in the hope of experiencing some- Greek island of Skyros in the Aegean of all persons who, in the opinion of the
respond with a smile, even walk you thing unusual, at least unexpected. Sea, anticipates his own tragic end in Egyptian Premier and the British High
to the place. I love coffee and this is a From Medellin we took the cable car one of his most unforgettable poems. Commissioner, could be set free without
country where you find good coffee and rose swiftly 3500 feet to Rionegro, He says that the small plot of a for- danger to public security. It is expected
everywhere. You don’t have to look a smaller and cooler town. The town eign land where his body would be that of 145 prisoners only a small number
for a Starbucks; any roadside vendor gets its name, Black River, from a river interred would be forever English. I will be detained.
will serve you a superb brew for a tri- that winds through the city and looks found a plot of Colombian land that
fling sum. A dollar goes a long way
here.
dark because of the large number of
trees on its banks. It played an impor-
will be forever Indian. As we were
driving to our chosen hotel at another OFFICIAL BILLS IN
I seem to be constantly moving
here. I have a lovely room on Carrera
tant role in the country’s struggle for
independence from Spanish rule and
end of town, we were struck by a curi-
ous sight. There stood in the middle of ASSEMBLY
Siete, a major thoroughfare. I have a in writing its constitution. nowhere, on an unremarkable corner Unexpected opposition was encoun-
fabulous view of the busy road. People I have friends in Rionegro and we of an undistinguished motorway, a tered in the Indian Legislative Assembly
waiting for a bus, scrambling to get in, drive into the city for a quick meal and large bronze statue. In the fading light yesterday when Sir Charles Innes moved
or just sauntering by. A few entering the visit to a ceramic factory. Years ago of dusk, I made out the bronze statue that the Indian Tariff Act (Amendment)
the restaurant on the other side of the Illustration by : Debabrata Chakrabarty I became friends with Ashis and Chris- of Gandhi, stoically bearing the thin Bill should be considered. Non-official
road; two couples looking at the road- tine Jana, talented designers, and had layer of rural dust and glinting in the opposition was based mainly on the
side menu of a tiny café nearby. Two the west. The taxi disgorging a well- world’s most dangerous city because my first look at the way ceramic items last ray of the sun. A man who had assumption that the measure, if passed
tall friends earnestly talking as they dressed couple on the sidewalk who of its notorious drug cartel, is now a are designed and made. Now I was fought evil and preached love but fall- into law, would seriously handicap small
cross the street near the corner store. hold hands the moment they are out. bustling town, a hotspot for business. looking at a much large production en to an assassin’s gun, whose way- industries in Indian States. Sir Malcolm
You can guess how unoccupied I am “Would you like another cup?” Every shopping mall seems packed unit, with several artists explaining ward country now tries to besmirch Hailey introduced the Indian Penal Code
that I can keep watching this mean- Alejandra asks, as I drain the coffee with buyers and fun-seekers; the how they produce exquisite products his name, stands placidly in the cor- and Criminal Procedure (Amendment)
ingless parade on the street. breathlessly. It was wonderful. streets are full of young students, mid- for the international market, using ner of a field, seemingly breathing the Bill which, along with the Income Tax
Alejandra comes with a steaming “Yes, please.” dle-aged housewives and non- both modern and traditional motifs. cherished words of an Irish poet: (Amendment) Bill, was referred to a
cup of coffee. “What are you watch- She comes back in a second with descript businessmen. No question I like Colombia, its Cast a cold eye on life, on death. select committee. The Indian Passport
ing?” she asks. a second cup. Handing it over, she We make short shrift of lunch in a green pastures and gentle climate, Horseman, pass by. Act (Amendment) Bill was withdrawn
“Nothing really.” asks, “Are you ready?” crowded cafeteria, then walk over to a cool music and warm people, its pro- after a warm discussion. It is to be
She stands beside me and watch- We are catching a flight for park and then to a museum. The clivity – encompassing its problems (The writer is a US-based international brought forward again on a future date
development advisor and has worked with the
es the street. She too can see the Medellin. museum devoted to modern art is and poverty – to remind me of the World Bank. He can be reached at by Mr. Howell, Foreign Secretary. In his
group of school children ambling to Medellin, once considered the notable for the remarkable work of high-spirited, non-muscle-flexing mnandy@gmail.com) reply to Diwan Bahadur Rangachariars
motion for constitutional advance, Sir
Campbell Rhodes referred to the preva-
lence of crime in Bengal.
CROSSWORD NO-292691

1 2 3 4 5 6 ACROSS 13 Spike in rent around 23 Work given to in France – country’s 10 Set super booster
LOCOMOTIVES FOR
7 8 9
YESTERDAY'S SOLUTION
end of month
(5)
model is a con (7)
25 Bullfighter endlessly
superior
(10)
to ‘loud’
(12) INDIA
10 7 Got together 14 Fussy person, changing direction, 3 Alarming, stumbling 15 Where g-good parts In spite of the official statement that
S C A B B A R D L I F T with a potential one making one twisting around on the edge of an egg may be
11 12
partner, one covering selection after (7) (8) found? Wrong!
the India Office has no information
L R N U B O I regarding the rumour that orders for
Y E ME N I CH A G R I N up electronic getting money back 26 Strips after 4 It’s lucky mother’s (10)
A A D H C G A background (9) retiring for shuteye got somewhere 17 Maybe cherry’s locomotives for India have been placed
13 14 15
P R EM I E R E K I N D L E
information 16 Threesome in (5) to put baby sour for bird in Germany, the North British Locomo-
(8) extremely 27 Tree beside grave (6) (8)
I A S S E E
8 Conflict around adventurous liaison, gets emergency 5 Commute, hands 18 Like Wagner’s Ring,
tive Company announce that an order
16 17 18
I N A CO L D SWE A T for five locomotives has been definitely
borders surrounding primarily relating in treatment raised came with translation
G O H A T P the most precious complicated way (5,3) (4) (8) given to a Hanover firm. An order for
N E UR A S T H E N I A
M T S T D N
resource (5) (7,8) 6 Run in street, 20 One getting 2p? fifty more locomotives has not yet been
19 20 21 22 11 Hope Crosby’s 19 Aim to keep call shamefully naked, (6)
S U B UR B T HR I V I N G enjoying Sleigh Ride? private? Ensured it’s DOWN unclothed 21 Charges a rector
placed, but German firms have entered
S M A E I E A (7) so 1 Politician turned (6) getting into dispute tenders. In view of the agitation the High
23 24 25
S T E RNU M V E N I C E 12 Evergreen City, (9) up penniless in 9 Ace dismissed by (6) Commissioner for India who is at pres-
E L D P E A L
P L OY T HR I L L E R
bypassing midfield, 22 Carry round a Welsh town harassed course 24 Drains baths from ent on leave in France is returning to
push forward little weight (8) trainer, being late the bottom
(7) (5) 2 Hate grand city riser? (12) (4)
London and it is understood that the
26 27
Government's reply to the expected
questions in Parliament will be that it is
NOTE: Figures in parentheses denote the number of letters in the words required. (By arrangement with The Independent, London) intended to give Britain the major share
of the locomotive orders.
Who am I to remove the clothes of
this society, which itself is naked. I
don’t even try to cover it, because it is Saadat
Hasan
not my job, it is the job of dressmakers Manto

06 VILLUPURAM MONDAY 12 02 2024


� �

T
HE people of Pakistan have spo- The cricketer-turned-politician has upset the Pak Army’s The incarcerated populist won the Khy-
ken. And if the results being pro- ber Pakhtunkhwa province and seats in Ka-
INDIAN EXPRESS IS NOT AN jected by a man that the Army well-laid plans. What the power players do next will decide rachi. He is challenging Nawaz’s win in his
INDUSTRY. IT IS A MISSION. has not been able to bend to their how the nation emerges from its economic mess home seat of Lahore. He has fed off a strong
— Ramnath Goenka will is even half-way true, the anti-American, anti-establishment, anti-

IMRAN BOWLS
winner in Pakistan’s critical 2024 dynast sentiment in his country to garner
national polls is not Punjab these votes. This is an electoral impasse that
strongman and three-time former prime no one, least of all Gen Munir, saw coming.

LS POLL TO DECIDE minister Mian Nawaz Sharif or prime min-


isterial hopeful Bilawal Bhutto Zardari of SURPRISING SWING But as this fractured mandate that Imran
has now counter-engineered shows, he can-

BETWEEN NCP LEADER AT OPPONENTS


the Pakistan People’s Party, but the Paki- not be dismissed as an aberration, a foot-
stan Army’s arch nemesis, Imran Khan note, as the Army would like to. The fact

AND PRETENDER
Niazi. The results were announced some 60 that PTI leaders who abandoned Imran are
hours after polls closed on Thursday. now electoral write-offs is one message that

T
Imran’s runaway victory at the hustings, must be taken on board. Second, Imran’s
HE Election Commission of India last week took away the despite being jailed for eight months and independents are a potent third force, one
his party made electorally ineligible, has he will guard against poaching by PML-N
party name and symbol from the founder of the NCP, Shar-
thrown a huge question mark over an elec- for a multi-party coalition.
ad Pawar, and handed it over to his nephew Ajit, to settle an toral exercise that the vast majority of Pa- NEENA GOPAL Foreign policy analyst Imran has opened communication lines
ownership tussle within the fragmented party. The EC ap- kistanis see as ‘state-managed’. The worries with the Zardari-Bhuttos, offering to back
plied three tests - one on the aims and objectives of the party are compounded by a highly suspect inter- Zardari as president and Bilawal as prime
constitution; two, whether the party constitution was followed; net shutdown during counting, supposedly minister, in return for a free pass out of a
and three, that of majority. As for the first two tests, both sides initiated to “prevent violence”. lifetime in prison. If the Karachi-based
weren’t in dispute, so they cancelled themselves. In the test of Fingers are being pointed at the Army Muttahida Qaumi Movement agrees to play
led by Imran’s bete noire Gen Syed Asim on Imran’s team, the game could change in
majority among the MLAs, MLCs and MPs, the Ajit faction had Munir and his Inter-Services Intelligence the Kaptaan’s favour.
a much bigger strength—51 as against 28 with Pawar senior. The cohort, Lt Gen Nadeem Anjum, for the Gen Munir—unlike his predecessor Gen
respective clout within the organisational wing couldn’t become ‘manufactured’ poll results—charges that Qamar Javed Bajwa, who had hand-picked
a determinant as the party’s 2022 polls were seen as disputed. The both have denied. Imran for political office overlooking the
Sharad Pawar faction could not establish the point that the NCP’s Imran is preparing to unleash a fresh cricketer’s hedonist, narcissistic streak
apex structure was constituted as per the party’s stated constitu- round of street protests to challenge the that impeded good governance—knows
PML-N-PPP coalition government being that Imran’s popularity cuts across gender,
tion - through elections. Almost all posts were filled through put in place at the Army’s prodding, despite age and community. With his own term
nominations by the patriarch, which became a disqualification. the political stalwarts’ shockingly poor per- coming to an end in a year, Munir, a Sheh-
In the end, the ambitious upstart managed to bulldoze his way formance in their former stomping grounds. baz Sharif appointee hand-held by a Wash-
into capturing the family heirloom, though Sharad Pawar hasn’t The irony that political leaders who know ington frowning on Imran’s return, also
framed it in such stark terms. That is the difference between the first-hand what it is to be on the wrong side needs a pliant prime minister to extend his
of the military—and history—are prepar- own term.
Baramati powerhouse and Sena’s Uddhav Thackeray. Uddhav
ing to sup at the same table as the men in Imran had famously blotted his copybook
went full tilt against Eknath Shinde for engineering a split in the khakhi, is lost on no one. with impolitic critiques of Washington’s
Shiv Sena to snatch the chief ministerial chair, thus wresting Given the serious charges and jail terms withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan, al-
control over the organisation. But for reasons best known to him, slapped against Imran for espionage and ienating Pakistan’s mentors, Saudi Ara-
Pawar sought to send out mixed signals. It’s not for nothing that leaking state secrets, and despite getting bia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman
people say politics in Maharashtra begins and ends with Pawar. bail which is no more than a move to offset SOURAV ROY and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed
international condemnation of his contin- Al Nahyan. He also upset Washington by
However, it has weakened his standing in the opposition INDIA ued incarceration neither the US nor the UK Assembly,” he said on his X account. untested Bilawal and his far cannier father calling for neutrality in the Ukraine-Russia
bloc. Ajit bolted so as to realise his ambition of becoming chief can be seen as condoning, there’s little likeli- By late Saturday, his party, the tech-savvy Asif Ali Zardari through his brother and war when he arrived in Moscow on the day
minister, assuming he would quickly step into Shinde’s shoes hood that he will be released from jail. But Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), was ques- former prime minister Shahbaz Sharif, few Vladimir Putin launched the war.
following a judicial fiat, but that hasn’t happened yet. even from behind bars, he has upset the Ar- tioning the slow vote count as an attempt to recall the large-hearted Nawaz and the Imran, holding off on unleashing his
The EC’s verdict came ahead of the Rajya Sabha polls for my’s applecart, forcing it to scramble to con- deprive PTI-backed independents of victo- pragmatic Benazir Bhutto’s deal in 2006-07, street power to arrive at a backroom deal
tain the fallout from the elections that are ry. They sent out numbers based on the overseen by Washington and the then Sec- with the establishment, looks unlikely. He
seven seats in Maharashtra. Given the numbers at his com- being questioned not just within Pakistan, Form 45 notices on the votes cast posted out- retary of State Condoleezza Rice. seems more inclined to pressure the estab-
mand, the Ajit faction holds the advantage. The real test for both but in major world capitals. side booths by the poll panel. This time, Nawaz has a far trickier path lishment, emboldened after the US State
the Pawars—as also for Uddhav and Shinde—would be the Lok Despite the PML-N winning only 75 seats, From claiming victory in 98 of the 245 to navigate as the IMF deal negotiated by Department called for an investigation into
Sabha elections possibly in April-May. People will then decide Nawaz Sharif, the 74-year-old political tour seats counted by Friday evening, as opposed his brother Shahbaz’s government rides on “claims of election interference or fraud in
who is the leader and who is the pretender. Voters will also con- de force, who had been removed from office to 69 by the PML-N and 51 by the Pakistan projecting a steady, savvy hand at the tiller. Pakistan” and US politicians called for a
in 2018 but welcomed back to the political People’s Party, the PTI on Saturday upped But while it’s clear PTI’s final numbers of probe into the electoral process.
vey if they are comfortable with BJP’s Operation Lotus and
fold to counter Imran, announced victory that number to 99 seats. By late Saturday 101 electoral winners, who all fought as in- For Gen Munir as much as Mian Nawaz
what they think about the recent incidents of lawlessness in the and laid claim to a historic fourth term in night, PTI was flooding social media with dependents, cannot form a government, it Sharif, everything rides on putting in place
state. The outcome could as well set off tectonic shifts in the office. Within hours, the Army’s nemesis grandiose claims they had won 183 seats, hasn’t stopped the wily Imran from throw- a stable government that not only keeps the
muddled Maharashtra politics we see today. appeared in an AI-generated image and laid the PPP 41 seats and the PMLN a mere 17, ing a ticking bomb under Gen Munir’s bus. Sharif political legacy alive, but leads Paki-
claim to form his own government. Imran’s with the Jamaat-ul-Islam Fazlur winning 2 He would like nothing better than for it to stan out of the economic morass. Imran

TWO SIDES TO INDIA’S


claim? He won “a landslide victory” in “an seats, and similar tallies of one and two to explode and show up his arch-enemy for Khan, the wild card, could upend all that
unprecedented fightback”. “We are win- a host of smaller parties. stalling his unexpectedly strong showing at and more. (Views are personal)
ning in more than 170 seats in the National As Nawaz reaches out to the young and the hustings. (neenagopal@gmail.com)
CONSUMPTION STORY

I
NDIA’S so-called K-shaped economic growth has a new name:
premiumisation. Most consumer companies—auto, FMCG,
white goods, etc—are witnessing this trend. FMCG firms are
seeing rich and upper middle class customers lapping up pre-
FENDING OFF RAM’S CRITIQUES
Development lessons

W
mium products. Auto companies are lining up fancy SUVs that
ITH Sri Ram constantly in the Ref: Last 5 yrs saw India reform, perform and
cost upwards of `15 lakh but still have long waiting periods.
news, let us take the bull by the transform, says PM (Feb 11). Prime Minister
Smartphone makers are launching mobiles pricing `50,000 and horns this week and examine Narendra Modi highlighted the achievements
above. Even liquor manufacturers are lining up one premium RENUKA NARAYANAN
some of the issues that critics of his government in the last five years.
brand after the other. have had with him. One, that he Each government in the past has made its
All these show that one segment of Indian consumers is thriv- killed Vali from behind. But in contributions to the country’s development.
ing, splurging, and indulging in luxury life like never before. On the root Ramayan, which is FAITHLINE But this one had gone farther than all. The
Valmiki’s, the dying Vali himself admits opposition must learn from this.
the flip side, a majority of Indian consumers are holding on to
that Ram was right to do so and commends For one, the sixth book, Yuddha Kandam, her mother’s house or brother’s, to have S Lakshmi, Hyderabad
their purses. The irony is hard to miss, which was aptly described his son Angad to Ram’s care. Vali’s wife, ends with Ram’s homecoming and corona- her babies. Since Valmiki and Sita were
by the head of an FMCG firm recently as the polarity between Tara, rushes to Vali’s side after his fall. Tara tion, followed by the phalashruti. A pha- both children of Mother Earth, they were Naveen’s example
booming premiumisation and tepidness of mainstream. is depicted as a bold, intelligent woman by lashruti or ‘benefits of listening to the technically siblings. So, Ram ordered Lak- Ref: Shades of grey in north-south, B&W
The launch of premium products across segments might give Valmiki. She is not afraid to speak her work’ always comes at the end of a compo- shmana to leave Sita near Valmiki’s her- politics . One wonders how Naveen Patnaik
mind. She arrives full of anger but when sition, it is the traditional conclusion. Sec- mitage and Valmiki took her home exactly of Odisha has no complaints about funds
a false sense of confidence to corporates as well as policymakers
she sees Ram, something happens to her. He ondly, the contents of the Uttara Kandam as set up. Valmiki was about sixty-two from the Centre. His government has been
that consumption is back on track. This can’t be further from the radiates such a calm, steady aura that she do not fit the character of Ram as described then and Sita thirty-five. He was a very fa- providing good governance for more than
truth. In its latest report, consumer intelligence firm Nielsen starts praising him, not cursing him. by Valmiki in the first six books. therly brother to her. two decades helped in part by increased
flagged the decline in consumption in rural markets in the Octo- This happens in Lanka, too, after the We have to cull and join these points to mobilisation of funds internally. That shows
ber-December quarter and an even more pronounced fall in urban battle. Mandodari rushes to where Ra- console ourselves that Ram, a very cor- the need to attain fiscal discipline.
markets. Earlier this year, the government released the first ad- vana’s body lies on the battlefield, furious rectly behaved person, was being proper in Venkat Desikan, Chennai
with grief. But when she sees Ram, she too, this as well. He did not abandon her just
vance estimates of GDP growth in FY24 showing consumption undergoes a change of heart and praises anywhere in the wild, nor did Valmiki find Fort heritage
growth at 4.4 percent—the lowest in 20 years. The income dispar- him. Mandodari, in her heart of hearts, her by chance as popular TV serials may Ref: The unique heritage of Maratha forts
ity in the country has been aggravated by high inflation, espe- knows that Ram is in the right. She urged depict. She was sent where he would find (Feb 11). The decision of the ministry of
cially food inflation. The government’s efforts to promote local Ravana many times to return Sita to Ram, her. It does not lessen our sorrow but at culture to nominate 12 forts for recognition in
manufacturing by levying high taxes on imported goods have also arguing that Ram was no ordinary person least gives us something to consider. the UNESCO World Heritage List for the year
if he was able to rout the demon hordes of The religion teaches believers not to 2024-25 is commendable. This is a great way
PEXELS

resulted in higher prices for many domestically produced goods. Khara and Dushana single-handedly and, flinch from the truth, which is what to honour our rich cultural heritage and also
Though most Indians do not pay any income tax, the high inci- though penniless in the forest, still man- opened the door to reforms. But you have the Maratha soldiers, the unsung heroes of our
dence of indirect taxes—GST, VAT, excise, etc—affects all. aged to raise an army and achieve the im- Some of Ram’s actions in to know where critiques are coming from. early independence war.
Income disparity has only gotten starker and the same can be possible by crossing the sea to Lanka. Ramayan like the banishment of A case in point is the 19th century Bengali Gouri Sudheer, email
gauged by the fact that only 10 percent of working individuals A third ‘enemy woman’ is moved by epic Meghnad Badh Kavya in nine cantos,
Ram’s personality and deeds. This is none
Sita have come under criticism. by Michael Madhusudan Dutt. My Ben- Andhra call
earn more than `25,000 a month. The stagnant growth in mini- The religion teaches believers
but Kaikesi, Ravana’s mother, called Nika- gali friends tell me that it’s a brilliant read. Ref: B JP to decide on poll alliance in AP soon
mum wage is further worsening the situation. The Union govern- sha in the Bengali Ramayana. I learned not to flinch from the truth, In it, Dutt valorises Ravana’s son Indrajit (Feb 11). The BJP is keeping all the options
ment’s stipulated minimum wage for unskilled labour is `176 a from a parable by Sri Ramkrishna that Ni- which is what opened the door or Meghnad, and negatively portrays Ram open to form alliances in the southern states.
day, which has not been revised since 2017. This needs correction. kasha flees the palace after Ravana’s de- and Lakshmana. We cannot really blame For a long-term alliance, they should choose
feat. She is caught by the Vanaras and to reforms. But you have to know him for it because our religion was not do- partners whose ideologies are similar to that
The government needs to go beyond free ration and provide better
brought to Ram, Lakshmana and Vibhis- where critiques are coming from ing well in the 19th century. Dutt was a of the BJP. Another important thing is to
health and education facilities to make a considerable impact on
hana. When questioned, she says that she learned, sensitive person. ensure that seat-sharing is finalised early on.
the living standards of people. Those at the bottom of the pyramid marvels at Ram’s marvelous deeds, at the But since the Uttara Kandam is too well However, instead of fighting for re- Rajarao Kumar, email
need support to escape the vicious cycle of deprivation and the loyalty he commands, and wanted to live known to ignore, let us examine what re- forms as so many Hindus did from within,
society at large must also stop vilifying them as ‘freeloaders’. longer to see what else he would do. De- ally happens, enlightened by both knowl- he took the quickest shortcut to moder- Leopard’s spots
spite a snort from disbelieving Lakshmana edgeable grandparents and modern dis- nity available in his day, the English Ref: Pak army chief backs Nawaz Sharif’s
who does not trust senior queens after Kai- coursers. First of all, Valmiki was visited church. In his new persona, he spurned call to form government (Feb 11). Strong
Q U I C K TA K E keyi, Ram courteously entrusts her to Vib- by Ram, Sita and Lakshmana during their Ram as a foundational figure of the faith, performance by Imran-backed independents
hishana’s care and sends her back with exile, so they knew him. although it was not God’s fault but man’s in the recent Pakistan elections is a sign of
honour, promising to stay in touch. Valmiki had meditated for so long that a that Hindu society then mistreated its public anger over the military’s interference
THE OTHER NUMBERS TO NOTE The other and even bigger issue that has termite mound, called ‘valmik’ in San- people. Broke in England, he was repeat- in politics. Notwithstanding this, the military

W
HILE politicos and pundits pore over the seats and vote tormented our culture for millennia is skrit, grew to enclose him. So, when he edly bailed out by his benevolent reform- has fired its first salvo of interference by
Ram’s banishment of Sita. Narayana emerged from it, he was called Valmiki, ‘of er friend, Pandit Ishwarchandra Vidyasa- backing Sharif to form government. After all,
shares won at the recent Pakistan polls, another set of Bhattadri of Kerala, composer of the the mound’. It was like a new birth. The gar. Dutt wrote reams in English but the leopard does not change its spots.
numbers paint a particular picture of our neighbour. The Narayaneeyam in the 16th century, which Vedas say that such termite mounds are literary magazines in England refused to R Sampath, Chennai
median age of Pakistani voters is 22.7. They seem to like the is still hugely popular today, describes the “the ears of Mother Earth”. Since Valmiki publish him. Finally, it was by writing in
71-year-old Imran Khan over the 74-year-old Nawaz Sharif and Dashavataram in his work. In fact, it is a was ‘reborn’ from the ear of Mother Earth, his mother tongue, Bengali, about the Military challenged
35-year-old Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. This and the recent Bangla- potted Srimad Bhagavatam in poetry. he was figuratively her son. Ramayan, that he became famous. Inter- Pakistan appears to be staring at instability
desh elections show that, unlike in some other parts of the About Sita, even he reportedly cries, “Shi- Now we know that Sita, too, was found esting, is it not? as no party has been able to emerge as a
va, Shiva! What an injustice!” on the ground by Janaka, that she was a Epic grace touched him even though a clear winner. Strong performance by Imran-
world, age might be a minor issue in subcontinental politics. backed independents would have shocked the
The banishment occurs in the seventh daughter of Mother Earth. That is why critic, demonstrating the belief of devo-
What mattered was that Imran’s tech-savvy campaign captured and last book of the Valmiki Ramayan, the she has names like Bhumija and Avanija, tees that just thinking about Ram works establishment. The people have challenged
the youth zeitgeist. Those in India wanting to make capital of Uttara Kandam. But scholars say that this both meaning ‘Earth’s daughter’. It’s the its own miracles. the military. This is a good thing.
the age issue should think twice. is a prakshipta or add-on by someone else. custom even today for a woman to go to (shebaba09@gmail.com) Karan Singh, email

THE NEW INDIAN EXPRESS


Chairman of the Board: Manoj Kumar Sonthalia Editor: Santwana Bhattacharya
Resident Editor (Tamil Nadu) : Anto T.Joseph* Published by R.K.Jhunjhunwala on behalf of Express Publications (Madurai) Private Ltd. at 264/5, Gingee Road, T.Mettuppalayam and Post, Vikravandi Taluk, Villupuram – 605 602 and printed by him at Sri Ambal Printers, 264/5, Gingee Road, T.Mettuppalayam and Post, Vikravandi Taluk, Villupuram – 605 602.
Villupuram: Vol. 8, No. 36. RNI Reg.No.TNENG/2017/72875. * Responsible for selection of News under the PRB Act. Copyright : Express Publications (Madurai) Private Ltd., All rights reserved. Reproduction in any manner, Electronic or otherwise, in whole or in part, without prior written permission is prohibited.
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millenniumpost
NEW DELHI | MONDAY, 12 FEBRUARY, 2024 Opinion 7
Missing ingredients
Talking Shop We have some great cooks in our land, but most are in a fix. With utensils and
condiments missing from the kitchen, stirring up a life-saving broth is a tall ask
Charting a
stable course

I
n its recent Monetary Policy Committee
(MPC) meeting, the Reserve Bank of India
(RBI) has once again opted for stability, main- RAJEEV NARAYAN
taining the policy repo rate at 6.5 per cent for
the sixth consecutive meeting. This decision, cou-
pled with the RBI’s continuance of its withdrawal
of accommodation stance, underscores the central
bank’s unwavering dedication to aligning inflation The world and its people are learning to live without rules, doing whatever they want to within and outside the proverbial kitchen
with the ideal target of four per cent. RBI Governor
Shaktikanta Das reiterated the significance of stable “Instead of going outside for palate and mind. Be it house- are turning to innovations, tling for some rasping paper being even more game-chang-
and low inflation at 4 per cent as the cornerstone dinner, get good ingredients. holds, politics or business for- freebies and offers to tide over tigers when we have many ing and ruthless. Back to the
for sustainable and long-term economic growth. Cooking shows affection. In a tunes, things are topsy-turvy the brutal sales storm. Fac- who have ushered in change choice we need to make—we
We are bad economy, it’s important in the fare being dished out. ing a near-all-time-low in the and advancement with lit- can embed democratic val-
Despite a temporary easing from July’s peak, scrambling to to make yourself feel good.” As I end the paragraph, let’s offtake of products, there is tle noise? As a nation and a ues and human rights into
headline retail inflation has rebounded to a four-  —Ina Garten damn the argots, idioms and little option but to improvise. Planet, we have followed those the design and implementa-
put together a

P
month high of 5.69 per cent in December. The patois—it is time to get down Freebies and discounts rule who embrace opportunity tion of tomorrow’s systems,
MPC has adjusted the projection for average retail fitting recipe ilot, White House to brass-tacks and tackle the roost in every segment. and selflessly pave the path or we can scoff at them and
inflation in the January-March quarter to 5.0 per which can economist and Bare- things head-on and dead-cen- You get more weight at the for future generations. As a live at our peril. We can create
cent, maintaining the inflation aim unchanged at foot Contessa cook- tre if we want to become a US old price, or a plus-one offer race, homo sapiens are said to inclusive societies, where net-
5.4 per cent for the current fiscal year. Of particu- satisfy palate show host Ina Garten $5-trillion economy. to coax you. In some cases, have been born only to assim- worked communities define
lar concern to the RBI and policymakers is the per- and mind. Be knows more than many give What stirred this thought? the price is slashed, but so are ilate, learn, procreate and pass the future, or we can create
sistent food inflation, which spiked to 9.53 per cent her credit for—be it how to The trigger for today’s ver- the contents. ‘More for less’ or on the learning. In the pro- tools for mass surveillance and
according to the Consumer Food Price Index, sig- it households, push or pull back the aircraft bal volley is as blasé as it is ‘less for less’ is the new eco- cess is created a smarter next population control, breeding
nificantly above the October figure of 6.61 per cent. politics or rudder, drive forward the personal. I was in my kitchen nomics diktat. That, inciden- generation; a process that has inequalities between people
The RBI’s recent bulletin suggests that food infla- world’s largest economy or the other day. Trying to put tally, is what happened to my seen us evolve from roam- themselves, both locally and
tion sometimes mirrors core inflation, raising ques- business futures, just prance her ladle around together a sumptuous Denver cheese. ing the Earth on bare soles across the world.
tions about its true impact on the Indian economy. things are quite in a pot to stir up intense and Omelette, I opened a pack of More to it than cheese to riding in bullet trains and Japanese ‘Iron Chef ’ Masa-
oft-whacky culinary concoc- cheese slices and was flabber- It is not just in my cheese flying in supersonic aircraft, haru Morimoto said: “No
Conversely, core inflation, excluding food and topsy-turvy. tions. She is known for being gasted: “Who took my (damn) where the contents are less even traipsing the unknowns rules. Don’t be afraid to do
fuel prices, has shown signs of softening in recent However, in life outspoken, yet thrifty with cheese?” I wasn’t quoting than promised or the price in outer space and beyond. whatever you want. Cooking
months, indicating positive outcomes from the words, earning her untold from Dr Spencer Johnson’s more than we planned or Let us not subjugate ourselves doesn’t have to have rules. I
RBI’s inflation-focused monetary policies and and the future, sobriquets and monikers, book or being a dilettante; I bargained for. It is happen- to the tangential analogy of don’t like it that way.” For some
affirming the stability of the economy. Looking far greater none more endearing than was just peeved at my missing ing in other life-walks as well, moving from bow and arrow reason, more of the world
ahead, challenges persist, including the sustained that of being “as much at cheese, with the packet con- like politics and economics to RPGs, laser-guided missiles than not seems enamoured
rise in food prices, uncertainties surrounding challenges home in the kitchen as in the taining only 5 slices, as against (as iterated above). Today’s and sharper-than-knives ver- of Morimoto-san’s thoughts
crude oil costs, and the possibility of a slowdown in confront us cockpit and in boardrooms”. the normal 10. I sniffed the air stalwarts on these two criti- biage and vitriol. That would and has embraced them
domestic growth momentum. These factors could Therefore, when Garten tells and looked around to locate cal fronts are anything but, be historically criminal. quite wholeheartedly (there’s
exacerbate demand pressures on inflation, particu- us to try and feel good in a rats, if any, man-type or the and their vocabulary and sub- Choice: Moore or Murphy? nothing called ‘whole-stom-
larly considering the current state of private con- bad economy, you had bet- four-legged rodent-kind. stance is lacking in the most We live in a world steeped achedly’, is there?). And that
sumption in India. Despite these challenges, the ter try and feel good in a bad There were none. The mystery basic of ingredients and con- in technology and the over- is perhaps why the world and
RBI remains optimistic about the country’s eco- economy. Don’t diverge from was only solved when I looked diments. As we are talking whelming advancement of its its people are learning to live
nomic prospects, projecting a real GDP growth of 7 good advice coming from a at the packing closely, which kitchens, we should accept composites. Going by Moore’s without rules, doing whatever
per cent for the upcoming financial year 2024–25, smart person. read ‘5 SLICES’ in bold. What that, much like florid veins, Law, technology (read ‘transis- they want to within and out-
an increase from the previous projection of 6.6 per Intrinsically, though, we happened to the other five, I we have resigned ourselves to tors on a circuit’) will double side the proverbial kitchen.
cent. This forecast includes growth rates of 7.2 per have a problem in following was left wondering. Well, the empty shells creating superfi- every two years at minimal Life doesn’t always give you
cent in Q1, 6.8 per cent in Q2, 7 per cent in Q3, and her advice. While we have slowdown and stringent cost- cial cacophony and all-round cost. A corollary is Murphy’s what you want when you want
6.9 per cent in Q4. Additionally, inflation readings great cooks in our land, most cutting at India’s FMCG firms clutter, not deep-seated finan- Law, which says that “any- it; things change unexpectedly.
for Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4 of FY25 are projected at 5 of them are in a fix as utensils did, I found out soon enough. cial and industrial growth, or thing that can go wrong will We can find ways to adapt and
per cent, 4 per cent, 4.6 per cent, and 4.7 per cent, and key condiments are miss- Some research led me societal togetherness. Thus, go wrong”. It is a choice we overcome our fears, and good
respectively, assuming a normal monsoon next ing from the kitchen, mak- deeper into the supply mal- we have economic numbers have to make, an option for things may just come around.
year. ing it well-nigh impossible to aise that surrounds us. As that defy even the essential us to choose from. Technol- You have a choice—I leave it
stir up an invigorating, life- I wrote recently, a double- demands of any financial ogy is neither good nor bad; to you to take your best pick.
In light of these projections and the prevailing saving broth. It is due to this whammy confronts Indian juggernaut, overshadowed by nor is it neutral. In the last 50 The writer is a veteran
economic conditions, the RBI’s decision to main- that in humble Indian kitch- businesses, with sales slith- raucous verbal vomiting that years, the Internet has been journalist and communications
tain the status quo on interest rates appears prudent. ens or societal cook-fests, we ering and profits dwindling. nixes true camaraderie. transformative and disruptive. specialist. He can be reached on
By prioritising inflation control while supporting find ourselves scrambling to With no recourse or let-up in That brings us to a burn- Going forward, communica- narayanrajeev2006@gmail.com.
economic growth, the central bank aims to strike put together a recipe to satisfy sight, even leading companies ing question—why are we set- tion and AI show every sign of Views expressed are personal
a delicate balance that fosters stability and resil-

Fraught with perils


ience in India’s economy. However, it is imperative
for policymakers to remain vigilant and proactive
in addressing challenges such as food inflation and
external uncertainties to ensure sustained economic
recovery and progress. Additionally, structural
reforms aimed at enhancing supply chain efficiency
and bolstering domestic production could help mit-
igate inflationary pressures in the long run. Overall,
Pakistan and Iran must settle their disputes amicably to prevent further
the RBI’s cautious approach reflects a commitment
to strengthen India’s economic landscape, ensuring
stability, and laying the groundwork for sustainable
growth in the years ahead. escalation in already volatile conflict-ridden West Asia

I
n these very columns, it that. This view does not seem
SHANTANU MUKHARJI was explicitly written some to be wide off the mark.
time back that Iran was Ihsanullah Tipu Mehsud,
very likely to be drawn into who is a director at The Kho-

DearEditor the ongoing military turmoil in


West Asia after the terror attack,
allegedly by Islamic State of Iraq
rasan Diary, a news and research
portal that tracks and analyses
security issues in the region,
and Syria (ISIS), in Kerman on expressed his surprise at the
ALARMING REVELATIONS the occasion of the death anni- escalation by Iran despite the
versary of former military and continuing security conflict in
India has made a steep slide in Transparency intelligence chief General Qas- the Middle East region. He said
International’s Corruption Perception Index (CPI) sem Soleimani. However, what Iranian actions would have a
2023 even when there are claims in the country that is now significant is that the Ira- long-lasting effect and impli-
corruption has gone down. As per their recent report, nians struck (January 16) targets cations on bilateral relations, in
the country has fallen by eight places from 85 in 2022 inside Pakistani territory, which the realms of both politics and
to 93 in 2023, among 180 countries. Its overall score was described by Iranian author- security. Further, according to
has dropped from 40 to 39 on a scale of 100. The score ities as a stronghold of the Jaish- Tipu, by carrying out attacks
puts India in the highly corrupt category, with countries al-Adl — a Sunni terrorist group inside Pakistan, it has given a
like Lesotho and Kazakhstan. Corruption is a fact of Iran’s attack claiming the lives of two minors. kind of justification to Paki-
Intriguingly, earlier, on January stan to follow the same path in
daily life in the country and most people have not seen inside Pakistani 15, Iran had undertaken similar response to target the sanctu-
any improvement in the conduct of people in public life,
including politicians and bureaucrats. It is a reality that
territory, coming strikes in Iraq and Syria, hitting aries of anti-Pakistan militant
what it said were spy headquar- outfits, which Pakistan consid-
those in the top echelons are above the law and cannot be at a time ters and terrorist bases hostile Iran’s action against Pakistan could be part of a larger muscle-flexing exercise ers are based in Iran or even
brought to account with existing laws against corruption. when Israel’s to Iranian security interests. tant groups on both sides of the misadventurism of Iran. With Arguably, Iran’s attack inside elsewhere. Also, Pakistan may
It is mostly the middle and lower level officials who Reacting rather sharply, in a border is one of the biggest irri- the election in Islamabad just Pakistani territory, coming at be seeking “greater alignment”
are caught, that too only in some circumstances. Many war on Gaza visibly retaliatory move, Paki- tants in the bilateral relationship, concluded, this military retalia- a time when Israel’s war on with the United States, Saudi
get away after being caught, again using corrupt could escalate stan recalled its Ambassador and Pakistan and Iran need to tion may provide some succour Gaza could escalate regional Arabia, and Turkey according
means. Elections are a fountain of corruption, with in Tehran and suspended all address this issue in a “mature” to the Pakistani populace too, tensions, perhaps deserved a to some analysts on the pre-
large amounts of money from anonymous donors
regional tensions, high-level bilateral visits that manner to ensure the situation who are already seen to be losing mature response, according to text of Iran’s action. On its part,
being used to win them. Transparency International deserved a were in the pipeline. Also, bilat- does not worsen further. Ira- credibility in the Pakistani secu- Mosharraf Zaidi of the Islam- Tehran sees Pakistan as a pawn
says the weakening of justice systems has reduced the mature response eral ties between Iran and Paki- nian officials had claimed the rity agencies for facing repeated abad-based Tabadlab think tank. in this high-risk brinkmanship
accountability of public officials. Both authoritarian and stan reached a new low when assailants entered from Paki- terror attacks. Zaidi opined that Pakistan’s with Washington.
democratic leaders undermine justice, and bribery and Pakistan expelled the Iranian stan. There were also two attacks Against the backdrop of the response so far is exactly what In the foregoing, Iran’s action
abuse of power have entered courts also. It has noted that Ambassador in Islamabad and, last year, apparently originating escalation of tension in Islam- it should be, as the Iranians were against Pakistan could be part
there is a narrowing of public space in India, posing a in a blatant show of ire, stated from Iran, in which several Paki- abad-Tehran ties, Pakistan has looking to provoke an unneces- of a larger muscle-flexing due to
threat to fundamental rights. It has cited the passage of that the Iranian envoy would stani troops were killed. China, started strict monitoring of all sary reaction. The real risk right the ongoing Israel-Hamas long-
the Telecommunications Bill as such a threat. It has also not be allowed to return to Paki- which enjoys cordial relations flights from the West, includ- now is the wider dangers of Paki- drawn confrontation. It is also
stan. Meanwhile, the ongoing with both states, has urged “both ing Iran. The Pakistan Civil stan being drawn into a conflict possible due to intensified anti-
noted that the crackdown on civil society and attacks
escalation between the two war- sides to exercise restraint” and Aviation Authority (CAA) is that it is not a primary actor in, Iran (also anti-Shia) activities by
on freedom of the press and other freedoms weaken ring neighbouring countries is has offered to mediate to end monitoring air activities over and will be distracted further, as Jaish-al-Adl. Whatever the case,
transparency and accountability. The best antidote to clearly engaged in the escalation, the standoff. the western border, and the claimed by Zaidi. unless both sides agree to peace
corruption is transparency, and that is at a huge discount and there are no chances of any Interestingly, what added authorities have been directed Another viewpoint shared and resolve the tension amica-
in government, administration and organisations, abatement in the near future. fuel to the fire was Pakistan’s to remain alert. Obviously, Paki- by Kamran Bokhari, senior bly, the region will be fraught
including political parties. Pakistan’s initial reaction was retaliation in targeting the ‘ter- stan is reeling under an appre- director for the Washington with peril, threatening peace and
that the violation of Pakistani rorist’ hideouts inside the Ira- hension of likely onslaught or DC-based New Lines Institute further adding more gunpow-
— KHOKAN DAS, KOLKATA via email territory was totally indefen- nian border, killing nine persons covert action by Iran-sponsored for Strategy and Policy, feels this der to the inflamed West Asia
sible; such unilateral actions— and further heightening the acts of deadly strikes. Air traffic escalation may lead to poten- military conflict with dangerous
millenniumpost.in especially resulting in the loss of tension. Pakistan’s Operation, control has also been directed tially longer-term conflict for ramifications.
innocent lives—may do irrepa- codenamed “Marg Bar Sarm- to gather details of all Western Pakistan. After Afghanistan on The writer is a retired IPS
Log on to write letters to the editor or send them to rable harm to bilateral ties. This achar,” has given some conso- flights, including from Iran. Pre- the West and India on the East, officer, Adviser NatStrat, and a
letter2editor.mp@gmail.com. You can also send your comments to The Editor, was the statement issued by the lation to Pakistan’s polity and viously, there was no monitor- this could possibly open conflict former National Security
Millennium Post, Pratap Bhawan, 5 Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi 110 002 Pakistani Foreign Office (FO). security establishment, showing ing of flights coming to Pakistan on a third border, and Pakistan Advisor in Mauritius.
Furthermore, the activity of mili- that it had not caved in to the from the West. does not seem to be ready for Views expressed are personal
8 Our Opinion, Their Opinion
,, “It’s no use going back to
yesterday, because I was a
different person then.” 
 — Lewis Carroll

EasternChronicle
KOLKATA , FEBRUARY 12, MONDAY, 2024
Modikaal Mantra for 1,000 years
This 100-minute speech reiterated his vision explained on January 22 in Ayodhya. Three days later, the government convened a daylong session to
Spirit of federalism in record the saga of Ram temple construction for posterity. Such repeated invocations of Ram and Indian culture are aimed at rallying the majority
behind a Hindutva ideology with the Viksit Bharat vow.
southern tax demands
M
odi is an enigma that is Bharat’ may be amended tions: Besides renaming India
wrapped in mys- by erasing India and retaining as Bharat, all BJP-run states
The two industrialised states of Karnataka and Tamil tery and history. Bharat. will be told to rename cities with
Nadu are near the top of the tax collection chart, Like those of a Revival of cultural heritage: The English or Islamic names. Mid-
Greek oracle, his BJP has always been bemoan- level leaders have already been
with Maharashtra taking the top slot. statements are open to innumer- ing the abominable plight of raising the issue in the courts.
able interpretations and oratory ancient Hindu monuments and A BJP leader filed a petition in
objectives. It is the addiction of icons. School students gain little the Supreme Court to replace
leaders to pontificate on their information about pre-Mughal the names of all cities and his-
next five-year plans during India, which is taught only in col- torical places that he claimed
election time. Theirs is an adjec- lege textbooks. Over a thousand are named after foreign invad-
tive-alloyed algebra that counts Indian temples and pilgrimage ers; the petition was dismissed.
promises fulfilled and makes new sites are either in shambles or But the name-changing spree
promises. But Modi is a political badly connected. Modi has been continues, spearheaded by UP
exception. visiting South Indian Ram tem- Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath
His charisma-charged, clairvoy- ples for the first time after becom- and other CMs, and BJP netas in
ant clarity envisages not just the ing prime minister. He has gone opposition-run states.
coming decade or century, but to all the famous and revered Uniformity in diversity: The

T
he recent protests by Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and 1,000 years of India’s dazzling Hindu shrines in the South. Constitution provides enor-
Kerala against New Delhi’s “step-motherly treat- destiny. In his last speech in While much of India has been mous powers to the Centre to
ment” in tax-sharing have created an uproar. The parliament, he claimed that he Hindutvaised, the active political legislate on various issues. The
three southern states have knocked on the Centre’s was riding into his third term of Ram temple construction for as ‘Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas’, many impactful amendments Hindu is missing in the South, BJP has been agitating over
door, alleging discrimination in the allocation of federal and embarking upon memo- posterity. Such repeated invoca- ‘Vocal for local’ etc. He is sculpt- which give more powers to the which has many more deities citizenship rights given to infil-
funds. They have claimed that the distribution from the rable policy initiatives which tions of Ram and Indian culture ing the contours and painting the Centre over the states. The gov- and temples than the North. The trators from Bangladesh and
central kitty has weakened cooperative federalism. would be celebrated for aeons are aimed at rallying the majority colours of an ever-enduring, new ernment has dropped enough ministry of culture has allocated Pakistan. It has been demand-
They are demanding their rights, asking for their fair share in to come. With perfect timing, behind a Hindutva ideology with Bharat. The speculative toolkit hints by distributing the origi- funds to restore Hindu temples.It ing a uniform civil code for all
the devolution of taxes. The ruling dispensation in Tamil Nadu he invoked the god of Ayodhya the Viksit Bharat vow. But why for a cultural, political, religious nal copy of the Constitution to is likely that Modi may propose of India. BJP-ruled Uttarakhand
was livid when its request for Rs 37,000-crore aid following the as his imprimatur on India’s this time-frame of 1,000 years? and economic renaissance which MPs at the inauguration of the a legal mechanism to take away has already introduced a UCC.
December 2023 cyclone and floods fell on deaf ears. M K Stalin identity by saying, “Lord Ram Many Modi-meisters are at a loss Modi could employ during his new parliament building. The temple administration from local During the next five years,
blamed the Centre, saying that it has curtailed the state’s author- has now not only returned to his to dissect his potent philosophical next term with 340 seats is both entire opposition rose in protest governments and hand them over all BJP states will adopt laws
ity over funds, education and law. Karnataka, which has been at home, but has come to a grand politics since the PM is always pervasive and precise. because it didn’t include ‘secular’ to Ayodhya-like trusts appointed which ensure social uniformity
loggerheads with the Centre ever since the new government was temple that will energise India’s unpredictable. Analysing his A revised Constitution: If Modi and ‘socialist’ in its Preamble, by the central government. The in marriage, on which Muslims
seated, claimed that New Delhi purposefully reduced the state’s august cultural traditions for the actions over two decades as both garners a two-thirds majority in having been introduced by Indira BJP leadership is peeved with enjoy special privileges. The
share of tax revenues. Kerala, which is facing a serious fund next 1,000 years.” chief minister and prime minis- both Houses of parliament, he Gandhi during the Emergency. foreign-funded NGOs, which government will push for imple-
crunch, has squarely blamed it on the Centre’s discrimination. This 100-minute speech reiterated ter, it is obvious that Modi has will introduce changes to replace Secularism has lost its credibility have been spending massive mentation of the Citizenship
The two industrialised states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu his vision explained on January followed a specific narrative: set- the Nehruvian and Congress and desirability; Modi is likely amounts of money to restore (Amendment) Act and a
are near the top of the tax collection chart, with Maharashtra 22 in Ayodhya. Three days later, ting records such as the Statue of credo with Mission Moditva. to drop both words and intro- Islamic monuments over Hindu National Registrar of Citizens,
taking the top slot. But they receive little in return, as most funds the government convened a day- Unity and Ram mandir, and coin- The Preamble to the Constitution duce a nationalist definition of landmarks. which will erase foreigners from
go to underdeveloped, populous states in the North. It is true long session to record the saga ing mesmerising slogans such is likely to be rewritten. Expect Bharat. Even the article ‘India Renaming cities and institu- voters’ lists.
that ever since GST has been introduced, state governments’
revenue sources have been choked. Most of them have ended
KNOW YOUR DAY
The unique heritage of
up with lower-than-expected revenue growth, orcing them to
borrow more to expand capital outlays.
It is a Catch-22 situation: high debt eats into their funds, leaving
barely anything for capital expenditure, which in turn is vital ARIES: (MARCH 21 – APRIL 20) Today’s events will be
for growth. The Centre has raised concerns over off-budget dominated by lots of friends. Life will seem to you

Maratha forts
borrowing by state government arms. States, mostly those from to be a huge party, even if it is just tea that you are
the South, are sandwiched between the curbs on raising debt having together.
on the one hand, and abysmal shares from the central kitty However, Ganesha suggests that you set aside the
on the other. evening for a special friend.
What the southern states run by opposition parties demand is
an open dialogue and redress. The Union finance minister has
tried to reason it out, saying that devolution happens accord- NANDITHA KRISHNA hills and valleys. Suvarnadurg is located TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20) Prepare yourself to

T
ing to the Finance Commission’s recommendations. But the on a small island in the Konkan and was handle ordinary situations in an extraordinary
allegation from some quarters that the opposition is creating a he ministry of culture has connected to a land fort, Kanakadurg, by way, foretells Ganesha. Today, you will get a
North-South divide is absurd. The fight for a federal democracy nominated twelve forts a now-defunct tunnel. It was captured in lesson in how people work.
should not be viewed as a bout for regional divisions. Southern as the ‘Maratha Military 1660 by Shivaji by defeating Ali Adil Shah Before arriving at any crucial decision, explore
states are not demanding freedom from India, but the freedom Landscape’ for inclusion in II, and Kanhoji’s navy was stationed there. the pros and cons with a balanced mind, says
to build the nation as enshrined in the Constitution—with a the UNESCO World Heritage Panhaladurg has been described as “a Ganesha.
strong Centre-state bond. list. The dozen have been chosen from treasure trove of history, culture and
the 390-odd forts the Marathas built natural beauty” and is one of the largest GEMINI (MAY 21–JUNE 20) There is every possibility
on the Sahayadri mountains, Konkan forts in the Deccan. After the death of Afzal that you will keep your partner in the loop while
coast, Deccan plateau and the Eastern Khan, Shivaji captured Panhala in 1705. making important decisions today, predicts Gane-
Uttarakhand code may bring Ghats.
Maratha rule formally began with the cor-
Tarabai, widow of Shivaji’s son Rajaram
and regent, made Panhala her headquar-
sha. And this will prevent a grave misunderstand-
ing.

privacy issue back to SC


onation of Chhatrapati Shivaji in 1674 and ters and personally led the war against the Later in the day, you will benefit from the insights of
ended with the dissolution of the Maratha Mughals. Panhala has three enormous your soul mate. You will tend to be a little bit on the
confederacy in 1818. Their history and stone granaries named after Ganga, spiritual side today.
The Uttarakhand code, on the other hand, appears more focused success are linked to the forts, which they Yamuna and Sarasvati, which could hold
on moral policing than providing protection to such couples. captured or built, and then defended, pro- 2,50,000 khandis of grains. Inside the fort, CANCER (JUNE 21-JULY 22) You may receive some
vided with food and water, and adminis- Sambhaji built a temple dedicated to his kind of windfall today. It may be that a rich old rel-
tered with transferable officers who had grandmother Jijabai. Vijaydurg, located ative dies and leaves you some unexpected cash. Or
no hereditary rights. The extraordinary at the tip of the Vijaydurg peninsula, was perhaps an investment is paying off better than you
network of forts was a result of the ter- led to the main entrance in others. The impregnable. Ships could be anchored in dared hope. This is just what you need to perk up
rain and physiographic characteristics walls offered further defence, with several the creek and yet remain invisible from your spirits! Be smart about how you handle this money.
distinctive to the Sahyadri. reinforced by two or more walls, the sec- the sea. Sindhudurg was a marine fort
Having been great warriors, the Marathas ond line higher than the first. They were in Konkan, commissioned by Shivaji LEO (JULY 23-AUG 23) A number of people in inter-
became a military unit under the rule of known as chilkhat, meaning armour, with and built by Portuguese engineers and esting fields, such as law, education, or writing
Chhatrapati Shivaji. Known for their inno- stone battlements and two or more gates. Vadderas, a caste of stone cutters. and publishing, could cross your path today,
vative approach to warfare, they would use The forts selected by the Ministry of The sole Maratha fort in Tamil Nadu is Leo. This could involve your job, or perhaps
guerrilla tactics, hit-and-run strategies Culture for the UNESCO World Heritage Gingee near Tiruvannamalai, a triangle these people attend a social event that you host
and swift cavalry movements. They could list include Salher, Shivaneri, Lohgadh, between three hills: Krishnagiri, Rajgiri in your home. Either way, some fascinating
traverse difficult terrains, strike swiftly Khanderi, Raigadh, Pratapgadh, and Chandradurg. Shivaji ranked it as the and useful information could come your way that alters
and disappear equally swiftly. Mobility, Rajgadh, Suvarnadurg, Panhaladurg, most impregnable fortress in India; the your thinking and nudges it subtly in a new direction.

T
he Uniform Civil Code brought in by the Uttarakhand flexibility and decentralisation of the army Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, all of which are British called it the ‘Troy of the East’. The
government appears not fully aligned with the spirit were some of the innovative approaches in Maharashtra, and Gingee in Tamilnadu. only access was a wooden drawbridge over VIRGO (AUG 24-SEPT 22) A chance to take a long
of the Supreme Court’s 2010 and 2013 orders that to warfare designed by Shivaji. Each fort has a history. Salher fort is a ravine 60 feet deep and 24 feet wide. On journey, perhaps to a distant state or foreign coun-
endorsed the right of unmarried couples to live Much thought went into choosing or build- the highest in Maharashtra, at 5,175 the summit are two perennial sweet-water try, could suddenly present itself to you today, Vir-
together; the latter of the two rulings termed live-in relation- ing a fort, whose terrains included forest, feet. Shivaneri was an ancient Buddhist springs and below are three reservoirs to go. This trip is apt to be far more significant than a
ships as “neither a crime, nor a sin”. The court asked the ground, hill and water. “Forts are the chief centre near Junnar and the birthplace store rainwater. Water was brought for simple vacation. It may be career related or involve
legislature to frame a suitable law to provide “adequate and protection of a kingdom. They should be of Shivaji. Lohagadh or the Iron Fort the seven-storeyed Kalyana Mahal by an an opportunity to expand your education. It could also
effective protection, especially to the woman and children built all over the country after selecting was associated with several dynasties: earthenware pipe from a reservoir 500 concern a relationship.
born out of live-in relationships”. The spirit behind the the proper site,” said Amatya, a lieutenant Lohtamia, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, metres away, outside the walls. Gingee
ruling was to provide a legal framework to safeguard the to Shivaji’s son Rajaram. “There should Yadavas, Bahmanis, Nizams, Mughals was originally built by Chola kings. LIBRA (SEPT 23—OCT 23) Some traumas, phobias, or
interests of the women and children in such relationships. not be a higher point near the fort amongst and Marathas. Khanderi is an island fort, Later, it became a Vijayanagar strong- hang-ups from the past that have been limiting
The Uttarakhand code, on the other hand, appears more focused the surrounding hills… The approach to renamed Kanhoji Angre Island in 1998 in hold till it went into Bahmani possession you in some way could suddenly come to the
on moral policing than providing protection to such couples. the fort should not be easy to access.” honour of the Maratha admiral. in 1638. It was captured by the Marathas surface today, Libra. You might get the most
The bill requires a live-in couple to inform the registrar about Many forts were visible to each other, so Raigadh is one of the strongest fortresses of in 1677. In Tiruvannamalai, Shivaji re-es- insight by analyzing your dreams. The release
their relationship within one month of moving in. The registrar they could communicate by using fire sig- the Deccan. Originally Raivi, a short form tablished the original temples of Shiva could be so profound that you have to spend some time
would conduct an enquiry into the relationship seeking “addi- nals. Often a hill surrounded by smaller of Raigiri, Shivaji’s coronation took place (Shonachalapati) and Vishnu (Samottir alone today, perhaps away from the house, in order to
tional information or evidence” from the partners or from any mounds forming a protective curtain was here in 1674. The samadhis of Shivaji and Perumal), which had been demolished fully grasp it all.
other person. The registrar is also tasked with informing the selected. The ascent included steep zig-zag his mother are situated here. Pratapgadh and converted into mosques.
local police for record and the parents if either of the partners paths or steps or niches cut into the bare was the site of the famous battle between Unfortunately, this great heritage of the SCORPIO (OCT 24-NOV 22) Romantic novels and
is found to be under the age of 21. By making the registration of rock. In some forts, the last part of the Shivaji and the Bijapur sultanate general Maratha kings came to an end in 1818, movies might have caused you to feel especially pas-
such relationships compulsory, the Uttarakhand code may have climb could only be accomplished using Afzal Khan in 1659. Rajgadh is situated when all the forts were captured by the sionate and sensual. Today you long to schedule a
intruded into the privacy of individuals, which the Supreme a ladder, while subterranean passages along a ridge, with breathtaking views of British, as was much of India herself. romantic evening alone with a love partner, Scor-
Court has recognised as a fundamental right. pio. Other social obligations could get in your way,
This provision could also expose live-in couples to the more however. You might have made these other commit-
conservative elements of society. In addition, the provision SOULSCAPE ments a long time ago and they may be business related.
empowering the registrar to inform the parents of live-in part-

Dwelling on the beginning and the end of existence


ners appears to have impinged on consenting adults’ right to SAGITTARIUS (NOV 23—DEC 21) Although you may
choice. The registrar also has the power to find out if the consent have been feeling somewhat out of sorts for the past
of one of the partners was obtained by force, coercion, undue few days, Sagittarius, today you could feel as if

W
influence, misrepresentation or fraud concerning the identity you just got a new lease on life. You’re in excel-
of the other partner. hoknowsthebegin- conventions of an eternal Art. God, represent. Nothing in the world can be lent physical, mental, and emotional shape, so
The other provision of the Uttarakhand code that is likely ning of things or Man, Nature are the three perpetual understood by itself, but only by that you should be raring to go. Both immediate and
to invite legal scrutiny is the criminalisation of non-reg- what mind has symbols. which is beyond it. If we would know long-term goals should be easy to achieve while your
istration of a live-in relationship. An offence such as this ever embraced The idea of eternal recurrence all, we must turn our gaze to that which energy is strong today.
should at best have been made a civil offence punishable their end? affects with a shudder of alarm the is beyond all. That being known all else
with a fine. The loopholes in the new law and the wider When we have said a beginning, mind entrenched in the minute, is comprehended. CAPRICORN (DEC 22—JAN 20) Today you’re likely
implications of its provisions may soon bring the ball back do we not behold spreading out the hour, the years, the centuries, A beginning less and endless eternity to be longing for a little break from your daily rou-
to the top court, which would again have to weigh an indi- beyond it all the eternity of Time all the finite’s unreal defences. But and infinity in which divisible Time and tine, Capricorn, and for an evening alone with
vidual’s right to privacy and choice, and the state’s powers when that which has begun was the strong soul conscious of its own Space manage to subsist is the mould of a love partner. You’re feeling sensual and pas-
to regulate live-in relationships. not? So also when we imagine an end immortal stuff and the inexhaustible existence. They succeed in subsisting sionate, but you also have much to report con-
our vision becomes wise of endless Space ocean of its ever-flowing energies is seized because they are upheld by God’s view cerning new opportunities that have recently come up.
stretching out beyond the terminus we by it with the thrill of an inconceivable of Himself in things.
AQUARIUS (JAN 21–FEB 18) Some welcome visitors
THOUGHT OF THE DAY have fixed. Do even forms begin and end?
Or does eternal Form only disappear from
rapture. It hears behind the thought
the childlike laughter and ecstasy of
God is all existence. Existence is a rep-
resentation of ineffable Being. Being is from far away could come to see you today and

, “Empathy is about standing in


someone else’s shoes, feeling
with his or her heart, seeing
with his or her eyes. Not only is
empathy hard to outsource and
one of its canvases?
The experiment of human life on an earth
is not now for the first time enacted. It has
been conducted a million times before
and the long drama will again a million
times be repeated. In all that we do now,
our dreams, our discoveries, our swift
or difficult attainments we profit sub-
consciously by the experience of innu-
the Infinite.
God, Man, Nature, what are these three?
Whence flow their divergences? To what
ineffable union advances the ever-in-
creasing sum of their contacts? Let us
look beyond the hours and moments; let
us tear down the hedge of the years and
the concept-wall of centuries and millen-
niums and break out beyond the limits
neither eternal nor temporary, neither
infinite nor limited, neither one nor
many; it is nothing that any word of our
speech can describe nor any thought of
our mentality can conceive. The word
existence unduly limits it; eternity &
infinity are too petty conceptions; the
term Being is an x representing not an
unknown but an unknowable value. All
cause temporary chaos in your home. You’ll be
glad to see them, however, Aquarius, as they’ll
have some great news and fascinating information
to pass on to you and your family. You’ll want to intro-
duce them to other friends who share your interests.

PISCES (FEB 19—MAR 20) News could come your way,


perhaps through local magazines or newspapers,
about possible renovations occurring in your
automate, but it makes the world a merable precursors and our labour will of our prison-house. For all things seek values proceed from the Brahman, but community. These changes could be rather con-
better place.” be fecund in planets unknown to us and to concentrate our view on the temporal it is itself beyond all values. troversial, Pisces, so don’t be surprised if you hear
in worlds yet uncreated. The plan, the interests, conceptions and realisations of a lot of gossip and a number of opinions, both pro and con,
 — Daniel H. Pink peripheries, the denouement differ con- our humanity. We have to look beyond Readers can send in their letters on the matter.
tinually, yet are always governed by the them to know that which they serve and to eastern.chronicle@gmail.com.
4
mail us at >> desk@thegoan.net

log on to thegoan.net @thegoanonline Facebook.com/thegoan The Goan E-Paper (Playstore/IOS) Instagram.com/thegoanonline Monday February 12, 2024

Matters of the heart


Most of the legal disputes involving teenagers are outcomes of love
Treasure your relationships, not your possessions
a�airs which only result into unwanted trouble
Anthony J. D’Angelo
> The writer is a
resident of Margao
who strongly

Kala Utsav: Political


desires to bring
about some
socially relevant
changes with his

power play behind PACHU MENON


musings

curtains disgraceful
T
A
he statement by the President, Chil-
dren’s Court for the State of Goa,
ll is well, that ends well, one may have considered to- that 80 per cent of teenagers who
wards the fag end of the Budget Assembly session, a get entangled in legal cases is because of
romantic relationships, is a grim remind- sought to curtail this ‘malaise’. when it comes to commitment to the
session that saw more controversies o� the hallowed er of the fact that youngsters continue to A belief that it is the internet that has relationship.
precincts of the House. The mediation of Chief Minister be a misguided lot on a number of mat- given the minor unlimited exposure to In order to avoid di�erent kinds of
Pramod Sawant appeared to have doused the �ames of ters which could invariably land them in information that would otherwise be objections from parents and relatives
trouble sooner or later. taboo for the child is not misplaced ei- or religious barriers, the more strong-
political rivalries between Canacona MLA Ramesh Tawadkar and Most of the legal disputes involving ther. willed of them rebel. The usual ‘ploy’
Art and Culture Minister Govind Gaude with even a privilege motion teenagers are outcomes of love a�airs, Adult contents tend to corrupt the is to run away from home with one’s
she a�rms. At ages where they are to be young mind and lead to serious psy- sweetheart. Invariably however it is
against Prakash Velip, a known supporter of Gaude, covertly with- showing more love towards their stud- chological issues. the girl’s family which �les complaint
drawn. ies, such unnecessary ‘distractions’ only With a new study showing that more of rape and kidnapping when a boy
However, on Saturday, the animosity between the two leaders came cause unwanted trouble. and more children, some not even in and girl run away from home.
She was speaking at a function held to their teens, are seeing adult content on Therein lies the crux of the whole
to the fore yet again. The 5th Kala Utsav 2024 organised by a club at celebrate the National Girl Child day. the internet, there are always appre- problem!
Indrawada-Gaondongrim in association with the Art and Culture De- As a jurist, the President, Children’s hensions that at some point they are The age-factor is the greatest impedi-
partment, which was to be inaugurated by Gaude, was called o� at Court for the State of Goa, will de�nite- going to stumble across something that ment in these cases. Either both are un-
ly delve into matters that have legal im- they are not prepared to or don’t really derage or the boy is a major.
the eleventh hour on account of an invitation issue. Locals admit that plications cautioning the children not to understand. In the cases where a boy and a girl
controversy erupted a�er Tawadkar, in whose constituency the event react impulsively and do any such thing ‘Teens, technology and romantic re- elope for the purpose of getting mar-
was organised, did not �gure in the guest list prompting furious reac- that will adversely a�ect their lives. lationships’ as a grave matter of con- ried, two elements play the most im-
Bringing awareness amongst children cern is not something that has any sort portant role in determining whether
tions from the MLA ultimately leaving the hosts with no other option hence plays a big role in such cases and of amusement quotient attached to it. there is a commission of any criminal
but to cancel the event. the parents and the teachers in schools According to another research pa- o�ence from the end of the boy or not –
have a de�nite role to play in the mould- per, “From �irting to breaking up, so- consent and the age of the girl!
Kala Utsav at Indrawada has had an encouraging response for the ing of the children. cial media and mobile phones are wo- Consent however becomes immate-
last four years drawing in dance performers and cultural troupes from The transformative impact of technol- ven into teens’ romantic lives.” rial if the elopement involves a minor
di�erent parts of Goa and Maharashtra showcasing traditional danc- ogy on modern childhood is an extensive “This study reveals that the digital girl and the boy would be held liable
subject that needs to be understood in its realm is one part of a broader universe for commission of criminal o�ence re-
es like Fugdi, Jagor, Dhalo, Ghodemod- correct perspective. in which teens meet, date and break up gardless of the consent given by the
The worrying side is the fact ni, Diwali Nach, Musal Dance besides It is claimed that growing up in a tech- with romantic partners.” girl.
nology surrounded environment pre- At times the mere proximity with The law says that a minor is not
that our culture is not dying others. Not only have the organisers la- vents children from spending time doing friends they are enamoured with is competent enough for giving consent.
for the dearth of talent, but boured for months to put this event to- other activities. Social media, especially enough to kindle romantic thoughts Therefore any consent given by a girl in
is being killed for sel�sh gether, the contestants too put in hours and undoubtedly, has a negative in�u- in the teen’s minds. What the elders order to conclude an elopement would
political advantages and of practice and toil preparing for the ence on young and growing minds. generally overlook as infatuation and be invalid.
According to an article which featured crush does at times tend to get serious The boy in such an elopement would
electoral gains Utsav. Moreover, most of the troupes in ‘The Wrangler’, the student news site and we have a budding love-story in be entitled to punishment as speci�ed
had drawn up their itinerary and made of Yorba Linda High School, “Social me- our hands. by the Indian Penal Code for the com-
dia can be a platform that restricts kids It is said that every single teen mission of o�enses like rape, kidnap-
travel plans, especially those from Ma- from having their own opinions and knows how it feels for a parent or an- ping and abduction. (References: Ar-
harashtra. All of this came to an abrupt end. teaches them from a young age that other adult to brush o� their strong ro- ticle by Mayank Vats in ‘Vidhikarya’, a
The politics playing behind the curtains of Kala Utsav is apparently there is only one way to view things.” mantic feelings. law �rm serving pan-India clients)
The author argues that technology has But the argument that emotional Besides, generally a�er the couple
a sequel to the Gaude-Tawadkar saga. Last week, an audio clip went impacted the lives of children in more of immaturity and lack of life experience is ‘traced’, the girl is known to buckle
viral with the art and culture minister livid and using �lthy language a negative way than positive. A lasting puts the teen at a distinct advantage under parental pressure and the po-
against the tribal welfare director for hosting an event in his home “Kids should not be exposed to tech- relationship is when it comes to his ability to have lice manage to get a statement from
nology at such young ages. Their minds probably the an enduring and committed romantic her that she was coerced into running
constituency of Priol without engaging him. This followed quickly are still developing and should not be in- relationship does not lack conviction away.
last thought
a�er Tawadkar openly charged Gaude with embezzlement of funds. �uenced by technology.”
that goes
either! So, from any which way one looks at
The pros-and-cons of social media A lasting relationship is probably the it, the dice are apparently loaded heav-
It is appalling that art and culture have been the sacri�cial lamb and its usage by youngsters continue to through a last thought that goes through a teen’s ily against teen lovers.
at the altar of tribal politics. The cancellation of the event highlights be a raging topic of discussion. However, teen’s mind as mind as he or she falls in love. Having Hence the advice to teenagers by
that politics has won over culture and all the artistes who have been the increased use of technology during heard and read about matters of heart, the President, Children’s Court for the
childhood has been known to be a se-
he or she falls it is initially nothing more than an ex- State of Goa, should not be falling on
torch-bearers of festivals. It is not only disrespectful to these stage ar- rious cause of concern with ways being in love hilarating emotion. The actual test is deaf ears.
tistes but to the State and all those who have made sacri�ces of time,
money and hard work to keep these traditions alive.
The worrying side of this is the fact that our culture is not dying for THE INBOX >> I
the dearth of talent, but is being killed for sel�sh political advantag-
es and electoral gains. Unfortunately, the very political leaders who Colva p’yat need to to be under a lot of pressure. The Lok

stand tall on podiums giving chest-thumping speeches about pre- act on illegalities Need to review anti-defection law Sabha and the Rajya Sabha recently
passed the Public Examinations (Preven-
The anti-defection bill was passed in 1985 when Rajiv Gandhi tion Of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024 to pre-
serving culture promoting diversity and forging unity are the very fac- It’s widespread knowledge that many was the prime minister with marathon debates. vent malpractice in recruitment exams.
villages in Goa are seriously a�ected by
es that are choking culture. poor water supply mainly due to ram-
It was passed in good faith to stop defections and to act as a It provides for punishment of up to three
deterrent to stop MLAs and MPs from leaving one party to join years and a �ne of up to one crore for the
If there was genuine love for culture, political leaders should have pant construction approvals for swim- another.
ming pools, residential complexes etc guilty.
shunned egos or thrashed their in�ated egos outside this platform But to the surprise of everyone in the country the �rst defection Exams conducted by UPSC, SSC, Railway
where the panchayats indiscriminately was engineered in Goa and later there were many defections
and upheld the sanctity of the stage. Inviting or not inviting a particu- issue licenses. Recruitment Corporation etc. will come
from 1990 to 2002. under the ambit of law.
lar political leader cannot be the reason to call o� an entire festival. Colva, also is seeing water supply issues Goa had 13 chief ministers in three Assemblies. Defections took
and many wells are polluted! Has the Due to malpractices in recruitment exam-
It’s disgraceful. place 21 times and the number of defectors was 80 in 2002. inations and untimely cancellation of ex-
Colva Sarpanch, Panchas and the sec- Presently, we have also seen several Congress MLAs jump onto
Politicos indulging in such one-upmanship leave an irreparable dent retary taken this into consideration and aminations, lakhs of youth are a�ected.
the BJP side thus making a mockery of democracy. This will now increase transparency by
in the morale and con�dence of not just the performers, but the audi- the future implications to Colva, before Courts also cannot intervene as the defections are within the assuring youth that their future is secure.
ence at large. Sawant must intervene immediately so that there are no issuing construction licenses? law and hence we need a more stringent law if democracy has to
There is a current High Court ban on Recently, tests were conducted at various
repeats of such political tamashas. Art and Culture will be the biggest survive and strengthened. places in the country and many times the
multiple dwelling units and the Colva No MLA or MP must be allowed to defect to another party a�er papers were leaked well in advance. This
loser if such rivalries continue to infringe upon our traditional festivals. panchas it is alleged have deceitfully the election process is over till 5 years. If this is enforced, then a�ected lakhs of students who seriously
found ways to still approve residential we will never have defections in the country and horse trading
complexes by combining plots. prepared for this exam.
will be out of question to garner majority.
There is also a hotel with swimming SHANTARAM WAGH, Pune
pool that has got clearance from the DIOMEDES PEREIRA, Corlim

OPEN SPACE >>


Panchayat, BDO etc when there is a cur-
rent ban on such type of constructions.
Surrender of passports:
Colva Sarpanch, Panchas and Secretary
agriculture sector in India with modern
Food for thought
should take responsibility as custodians It’s a matter of great concern that Goans
Modi touch: When everything of the village instead of being compla-
cent on the threat to the sustainability of
technology. Narsimha Rao has also
made vital change in Indian economy
for its growth and development. It was
are surrendering their Indian passports
as they perceive greener pastures on the
was spruced in record time village and the decent living standards of
its residents. during Narsimha Rao’s time on Decem-
ber 6, 1992 that karsevaks marched to-
other side of the globe.
No doubt Goa is considered as the best

T
ARWIN MESQUITA, Colva wards Babri Masjid for the Ram temple. bet, where people come, have fun, take
he hustle and bustle has returned at the Margao KTC bus-stand which is rest and enjoy their vacation.
refurbished with fresh coat of hot-mix and a new bus shelter, thanks to the The PM had to take tough decision to
February 6 Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Viksit Bharat Goa rally. Bharat Ratna awards: maintain law and order situation. But, as far as employment is concerned,
Goa has taken a back seat. Also, the sal-
The government has lately but rightly
It is learnt that bus operators, both intra-state and Mumbai buses had been
looking forward to the repair and hot-mixing of the bus-stand for several
Better late than never chosen the �ve personalities for the aries are low and the prices of essential
A�er conferring Bharat Ratna to veteran highest award in this year. One cannot Send your commodities are skyrocketing.
months which was in a pathetic condition.
The government has reportedly spruced up the bus shed, perhaps for the �rst BJP leader L K Advani and social icon forget the role and contribution in coun- letters to us In the hospitality industry, workers tend
to earn only for 6-7 months, then the o�
time since the shed was installed around four decades ago. The encouraging Karpoori Tripathi ex-CM of Bihar the gov- try’s economic development by all 5 at editor@ season approaches. Sadly, no income
part is that all this sprucing up was done in record time. ernment announced three more Bharat awardees and truly deserve it. thegoan.net.
Ratna awards posthumously. gets generated during the said o� sea-
Of course all this refurbishment is absolutely necessary when the country’s RAJU RAMAMURTHY, Vasco Letters must son.
Prime Minister visits the state. However it must be said that it takes an interna- The three awardees are former PM
Charan Singh, P V Narsimha Rao and be 150-200 Apparently, the locals are always at the
tional event or a visit by the country’s top leadership for work in the state to be
carried out in quick time. If Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a scheduled stop agriculture scientist M S Swaminathan. Now, no more cheating words and receiving end. Unemployment and less
pay seems to be the prime jolt wherein
at the capital city Panaji during the visit to the state, the ‘Smart City’ work would All three have contributed to the nation
in their respective �elds.
in recruitment exams mention the the locals prefer to migrate to other Euro-
have probably been completed in record time.
ADELMO FERNANDES, Vasco Swaminathan is known for Green The abuse of papers and fake websites writer’s name pean countries to get settled in life.
Revolution and contribution towards in government recruitment is now going and location JOSEPH DESOUZA, Candolim

RNI: GOAENG/2015/65729. Printed and Published by: Kishor Naik Gaonkar on behalf of Prudent Media (Goa) Pvt. Ltd. Printed at: Elegant O�set Printers Pvt Ltd, Plot No 2/3/4, Thivim Industrial Estate, Karaswada, Mapusa, Goa. Published at: Third Floor, Fourth Estate (Kamat Metropolis), St Inez,
Panaji 403 001. Editor: Joel Afonso (Responsible for selection of News under PRB Act). All Rights Reserved. Ph: (0832) 240 5950 or mail us at editor@thegoan.net
Disclaimer: Except for the editorials above, all columns and letters represent the views of the concerned authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of The Goan Everyday’s Editor, Publisher and Owners.
EDIT INDORE | MONDAY | FEBRUARY 12, 2024
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Never interrupt your enemy when
he is making a mistake.
— NAPOLEON BONAPARTE

FREE PRESS
FOR FREE FLOW OF TRUTH
A healthy balance between welfare and growth
expenditure in the current year has recognition that financial stability therefore need to continue on the are able to retain public support.

The Road grown by 28.9% over last year, and is vital for investment and long- path of fiscal consolidation if we are Clearly, good economic manage-

Political messaging Ahead


is estimated to rise by another
16.9% in the next year. In FY 2024-25
a record amount of Rs 11,11,111
crore has been allocated for the
term growth.
At the height of the pandemic, the
fiscal deficit of the Union reached a
peak of 9.2% (of GDP) in FY 2021. In
to sustain high growth.
States have multifarious gover-
nance responsibilities, and are
therefore under fiscal stress too.
ment need not be a political
liability.
Our public discourse needs to
shift from polarising issues and pri-
of Bharat Ratnas ÷ Jayaprakash Narayan Union’s capex alone. A significant
boost is given to housing for the
poor and R & D support to private
FY 2025, it is estimated to be 5.1%,
and in FY 2026, it should fall well be-
low 4.5% if the current path of fiscal
However, there is wide variation
between states in terms of fiscal
management. Even in some rela-
mordial loyalties of caste, religion
and region to real issues of econom-
ic growth, employment generation

I
t is raining Bharat Ratnas, isn’t it? In the last 15 days,

T
he FY 2024-25 Interim Budget sector. Exercising fiscal discipline, consolidation and prudent manage- tively rich states, short-term wel- and elimination of poverty. All pol-
five were thus honoured with the nation’s highest civil- presented by Finance Minis- continuing the fiscal consolidation ment of public money continues. fare measures have gone out of con- itics needs to be focused on gover-
ian award, while a total of 48 have been decorated with ter Nirmala Sitharaman is road map, not indulging in addi- One of the popular misconceptions trol, and sometimes vast amounts nance, and all governance should
very unusual in democratic politics tional short-term welfare measures is that the Union is flush with are spent on unproductive schemes aim at rapid economic growth and
Bharat Ratnas since 1954 when these were first instituted.
just a few weeks before the general and boosting growth-promoting prosperity. Prudent fiscal manage-
With the latest five the tally goes to 53. A combination of po- election to the Lok Sabha. For capital investments in an election ment is the vital starting point for
litical factors and genuine achievement in their respective decades we have been accustomed year budget are remarkable feats in Our public discourse needs to shift from polarising growth and prosperity. We need to
fields of activity seemed to have determined the winners. to a flurry of short-term individual
welfare measures and tax conces-
a democracy.
Maintenance of healthy balance
issues and primordial loyalties of caste, religion and do a lot more enhancing capacity,
productivity and opportunity
Bihar socialist leader the late Karpoori Thakur was the region to real issues of economic growth, employment
sions being introduced on the elec- between welfare and growth is ad- through quality education, skills
first to be honoured this year. The BJP veteran L K Advani
came next. Both were foremost champions of their respec-
tion eve to appease voters. Unchar-
acteristically, the budget proposals
mirable in a complex, fractious
democracy, particularly weeks be-
generation and elimination of poverty and healthcare, and ensuring fair-
ness, balanced growth and healthy
tive causes; in the case of Thakur it was the socio-economic for next year contain no populist fore going back to the people for competition through small town de-
uplift of the traditionally backward castes, a precursor to measures to maximise short-term vote. There is always a trade-off be- funds, and can transfer vast even under capital investment. velopment, in situ urbanisation,
gain of voters. Fiscal deficit, which tween the long-term growth you amounts of money to states when- This fiscal profligacy is leading to speedy, fair and effective dispute
the Mandal reservations. As for Advani, the only one living
indicates fresh borrowings, for FY pursue and the short-term political ever needed. The truth is, public fi- growing revenue deficits (current resolution, and curbing ubiquitous
among the five awardees, his able and aggressive steward- 2023-24 (5.8%) is going to be even price you pay. The greatest chal- nances are stretched at both Union expenditure exceeding revenues, corruption and harassment which
ship of the Ram temple movement bore fruition on January less than the stiff target proposed lenge in a poor country is to recon- and state levels. In FY 2024-25, the and therefore you have to borrow to are acting as disincentives to
22 with Prime Minister Modi playing yajman at the grand (5.9%), and it is further estimated to cile between the short-term welfare Union’s gross tax and non-tax rev- meet day-to-day expenses!). But wealth creation.
inaugural of the temple in Ayodhya. Due to poor health, come down to 5.1% next year in FY and long-term public good. On this enues total Rs 42.33 trillion. Of this, some states with lower per capita In short, we need all governance
2024-25. In fact the borrowings this score, the 2024-25 Budget is very the transfers to states alone (Fi- income are keeping costs under focused on balanced growth, oppor-
Advani could not be present physically to witness the suc- year are reduced by Rs 52,000 crore successful. nance Commission devolution, oth- control, generating healthy tunities, employment and real
cessful culmination of the campaign he had done much to compared to last year, and next This budget demonstrates three er grants, centrally sponsored revenue surpluses and boosting in- wealth creation. Let us hope the re-
energise with his historic Rath Yatra in the early 90s. Yet, year they will be further reduced by things: first, the Union government schemes etc) amount to Rs 22.75 tril- vestment and growth. Uttar markable Union budget of FY 2024-
he had reason to feel happy that his one-time junior col- Rs 49,000 crore. In a growing econo- s quiet confidence that the people lion, or about 53.7% of total rev- Pradesh (revenue surplus of Rs 25 will start a positive trend.
my reducing borrowings in ab- will recognise and value their enues! If you include interest pay- 74,000 crore in FY 2024-25;) and
league who is prime minister now in recognition of his ex-
solute terms and as a share of GDP achievements over the decade; sec- ments and establishment cost, the Odisha (revenue surplus of Rs 23000 The author is the founder of Lok Satta
cellent contribution has honoured him with the nation’s during election period is quite un- ond, the government s commitment expenditure exceeds total gross rev- crore in FY 2023-24) are examples of movement and Foundation for Democratic
highest civilian award. usual, and perhaps was never wit- to practise fiscal prudence and enues, even without taking into ac- healthy public finances and Reforms. Email: drjploksatta@gmail.com /
On Friday, three more Bharat Ratnas were announced. nessed for decades in India. Capital boost investment; and third, a count the Union subsidies. We prudent management even as they Twitter@jp_loksatta
And each had political overtones insofar as the ruling party
would expect to win over the diverse and widely spread out
constituencies each one of the winners represented.
Former prime minister Narasimha Rao at last got his due
from a BJP Government while his own Congress Party
UCC: Political expediency and private snooping
treated him shabbily, not even allowing his body to be
10.5 crore of the nation’s population. ed by the patwari and the naik nation of the distinction between le- sonal Law Board who have already
brought to the Congress headquarters. Sonia Gandhi’s ex- For the BJP, it is imperative to win tehsildar. India’s lower bureaucracy gitimate and illegitimate and adopt- issued a statement that they are not
treme antipathy denied him a funeral in Delhi, the only
prime minister not to have his samadhi in the capital. Re-
Guest over the tribal community in order
to achieve its target of 370 Lok Sabha
is hardly equipped to handle such
cases and has also been given the
ed children, and will apply to all reli-
gious communities thereby dissolv-
willing to accept any laws that go
against the Shariah.
grettably, Manmohan Singh, a life-long career bureaucrat, Column seats in 2024. And since they have al-
ready reached close to saturation
power to deny permission to such a
request. Not only will this result in a
ing personal laws of all of them.
Changes in inheritance laws, such
This UCC is very obviously a trial
balloon because it is not clear under
whom Rao had picked for the Finance Minister’s job after
retirement, did not have the courage to stop the maltreat-
÷ Rashme Sehgal levels in terms of seats in the north- further curtailment of individual as co-parcenary rights for Hindus or what jurisdiction such a law will op-
ern cow belt states, winning over the freedom but will give greater free- at least the fixed guarantee of inher- erate. We already have central laws
ment. So much so, Singh as prime minister would not even confidence of the tribal communities dom to vigilante groups to interfere itance, raise questions and require that regulate marriage, divorce, suc-

T
spare a few moments to nip down to Andhra Bhavan where he Uniform Civil Code passed in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Ra- in private lives as has been wit- much greater debate. Under the cession, inheritance and taxation.
by the Uttarakhand Assembly jasthan and Chhattisgarh is a must nessed in cases of love jihad, the ma- Muslim Personal Law, daughters These apply across the country and
well-wishers of the late prime minister would gather every
is applicable to all residents of to edge them on to an overwhelming jority of which have been triggered were given half the share being giv- are not state-specific.
year to mark his death anniversary. Singh as an economic the state. It is a prototype because al- victory. Their strategy to woo tribals by such groups ensuring the harass- en to the sons, while women were What happens if a state law contra-
bureaucrat for over three decades had implemented the though restricted to one state, the ex- has been working and the recently ment and arrest of inter-faith entitled to either one-eighth or one- dicts a central law or if other states
most stringent features of the license-quota raj. He was now ercise seems to be more in the nature held state elections in MP, Rajasthan couples through making false accu- fourth of the husband’s property. are not willing to accept a state-spe-
happy appropriating Rao’s medal of honour as the father of of a compendium, with the and Chhattisgarh showed a substan- sations. There is an apprehension that the cific law?
committee having compiled different tial increase in the tribal votes for India is witness to a large number Hindu family succession system and In such a situation where there is a
economic liberalisation and reforms. For sure, Singh failed laws granting equal rights to men the saffron party. of honour killings. These acts of vio- tax benefits for a Hindu Undivided contradiction between a state and a
to do the right thing with the memory of his chief and women in the areas of marriage, The other message being sent out central law, the state government
benefactor for fear of annoying his then benefactor, Sonia divorce, adoption, alimony, mainte- by this draft is that Big Brother has This UCC is very obviously a trial balloon because it is will have to seek Presidential ap-
Gandhi. But then doing the right thing whatever the cost to nance and inheritance rather than now practically entered into an indi- proval, which basically means the
one’s own career sifts the weak from the courageous, the come up with an original document. vidual’s bedroom. Otherwise, what not clear under what jurisdiction such a law will operate approval of the central government.
The timing of its presentation was earthly reason would the BJP have It can also result in a great deal of
careerist-opportunist from an upright man of principle. done keeping an eye on the upcoming to wish to monitor live-in relation- needless litigation. To cite one exam-
Without doubt, Rao made an epochal turn in the nation’s Lok Sabha elections in order to fur- ships? The BJP has always had a pu- lence, usually murder, are commit- Family will also be indirectly affect- ple, can a couple living in Uttarak-
economic journey, rescuing it from the socialist rut in ther build up public opinion in ritanical outlook and frowns upon ted by male family members and a ed because of the change in the in- hand but not part of the state go
which it was pushed by the purveyors of samajwad and so- favour of giving a third consecutive the increasing levels of sexual free- registration of such relationships heritance laws. ahead with a live-in relationship
victory to Prime Minister Narendra dom being enjoyed by the younger will mean putting them up for The UCC allows for Muslim mar- since they are not bound by the state
cialism. Modi’s BJP has now deservedly laid claim to Rao’s Modi. generation. scrutiny in the public domain. riages under nikah, Hindu mar- laws? In this case, which law will be
political legacy. His extended family is grateful at the reha- Otherwise, what is the reason for There are many reasons why peo- The report, prepared by the five- riages under saptpadi and Sikh mar- applicable to them?
bilitation of the late prime minister at long last. Uttarakhand to exclude people from ple across all ages opt for live-in rela- member committee led by retired riages under anand karaj as also The question being asked is why
If Nitish Kumar moved the Bihar chief ministerial kursi the Scheduled Tribes from the ambit tionships, one of these being that Supreme Court Judge Ranjana customary practises under other re- Uttarakhand was chosen to launch
of the UCC? Tribals in UT comprise a they do not want to be trapped in the Prakash Desai, has banned ligions which are not prohibited un- the UCC with other states expected
from the RJD corner to the BJP’s, he had found a fig-leaf in
miniscule portion of the state’s popu- shackles of traditional marriages. polygamy and suggested a common der the UCC. But the Muslim prac- to follow suit. For the last two years,
the award of Bharat Ratna to his late mentor Karpoori lation and consist largely of Bhotias, The Act stipulates the registration of marriage age of 18 years for women tices of halala, which the majority of the centre and the state leadership
Thakur. Likewise, speculation was rife that Jayant Choud- Buxas, Tharus and Rajis numbering live-in relationships and imprison- and 21 for men across all communi- Muslims insist has no mention in have been keen to convert this state
hary, the grandson of the farmers’ leader from western UP, around five lakhs in a state with a ment of three months or a fine of Rs ties in the state. All marriages will the Quran, or the practice of iddat into a Hindutva laboratory along the
the late Charan Singh, might soon part with Akhilesh Ya- population of around one crore. The 10,000 or both for failure to do so have to be registered within 60 days which is a 41-day period of silence lines of what happened in Gujarat in
Bhotias are an extremely influential within a month. This is akin to a and a fine of Rs 10,000 will be im- maintained by women following a the nineties. Since the four Char
dav to join the BJP-led NDA. “Dil jeet liya” was his winning and monied tribe based largely in the forced formalisation of a relation- posed on couples for non-registra- divorce or death of a husband, have Dhams are located here, as is the city
response to the award. Realising that the western UP Jats, Chamoli and Pithoragarh districts ship in which often neither party tion. Providing of wrong informa- also been banned. A large number of of Haridwar with its sizeable pres-
his main supporters, were increasingly attracted towards with a sizeable number employed in wants to be bound. tion will result in a three-month jail Muslim women believe that iddat is ence of Hindutva proponents, this is
the BJP, especially after the Ram Mandir, Jayant reckons the police force and at different levels And even if such a registration is term and a fine of Rs 25,000. Applica- an essential part of Islamic law and believed to be one more opportunity
of the bureaucracy. to be introduced, the registration tion for divorce can only be made af- was observed to ensure a woman is for the government to reap political
his chances of winning with the saffron party far better
The state government did not wish and other formalities will be subject ter a one-year period after the date of not pregnant in case she chooses to benefits in the coming Parliamen-
than with staying on with the SP. Though Charan Singh to alienate them with a distinct mes- to scrutiny not by officials in family the marriage. marry again. These changes in the tary elections.
was unprincipled in the latter phase of his life to achieve sage being sent out to the larger ST courts but by a sub-registrar, who is The UCC allows for equal property Muslim Personal Laws are bound to Rashme Sehgal is an author and an
his “life-long ambition” to become Prime Minister, he was community who comprise around in all likelihood to be an SDM assist- rights for sons and daughters, elimi- raise the hackles of the Muslim Per- independent journalist
a champion of the farmers’ cause, challenging Nehru on
the collectivisation of farming. The Jat leader single-hand-
edly stopped Nehru from committing yet another costly Enlightenment LETTERS interest rates unchanged and continued its
stance on reducing money supply despite
conservation. I urge NMMC and the
Railways to prioritise sound barrier
blunder. Thankfully for Indians, Bharat Ratna Rao dis-
carded the most egregious vestiges of the Nehru-Indira
is a joke! TO THE EDITOR liquidity shortage in the banking system,
the sensex tanked over 700 points on
installation at Seawoods–Darave Railway
Station.
years to put India on the path of economic growth. Mean- — Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Rates on hold Thursday, with private banks leading the Yohan B Vaz
slide. The central bank’s unwillingness to
while, there ought not be any more Ratnas this year in aid
of the ruling party in its bid to pulverise the Opposition in
O
nce upon a time, fish
got together to dis-
the silence and were filled
with words. A s expected, the RBI on Thursday kept
rates on hold for the sixth successive
recognise the liquidity situation could
weigh on lenders in the short term, hence
Save our students
the Parliamentary poll a few weeks hence. cuss who among
them had seen the ocean.
None of them could say they
We lived in our hearts and
as time passed, we moved
into our heads.
time but surprised markets by projecting
7% growth for 2024-25 as against 6.7%
earlier. While half of bank loans, including
the selling in these stocks.
Sanjay Chopra I ncreasing suicides among students is a
problem and requires immediate
attention. The educational institution can
INDIA 75 YEARS AGO
FPJ Archives had actually seen the ocean. The reversal of this jour- home loans, are linked to the repo rate, the Sound barriers needed provide supportive environment, homelike
FEBRUARY 12, 1949 Then one fish said, ‘‘I ney is enlightenment. other half are linked to the cost of deposits ambience and amicable faculty to assure
think my great grandfather
had seen the ocean!’’ A sec-
ond fish said, ‘‘Yes, yes, I
It is the journey from the
head back to the heart, from
words back to silence; get-
or are fixed and yet to fully reflect the
market rates. RBI projected 4.5% inflation
for FY25, and trimmed price forecasts for
Iurgently highlight the need for sound
barriers around Seawoods–Darave
Railway Station due to escalating sound
students that they are not alone and can
share their feelings. Proper and effective
counselling should be conducted to help
have also heard about this.’’ ting back to our innocence the first and third quarters of the next pollution, particularly affecting nearby and support students in making career
A third fish said, ‘‘Yes, cer- in spite of our intelligence. financial year. The last mile of disinflation is buildings like L&T Seawoods Residencies. decisions. On the other side, parents must
tainly, his great Although very simple, this always the most challenging and that has Urbanisation and transportation expansion stop forcing their dreams onto their
grandfather had seen the is a great achievement. to be kept in mind. RBI must persist in have led to significant noise pollution children. Most important, they need to
ocean.’’ Enlightenment is that maintaining a scarcity of money to control challenges. The station's constant train understand that even if the children fail it is
So they built a statue of state of being mature prices. The MPC voted with a majority of movements disrupt residents' lives and not a dead end and IITs, IIMs are not the
the great grandfather and unshakeable un- 5:1 to keep the repo rate unchanged at pose health risks. L&T Seawoods only option. Make the child feel: “You are
of that particular der any circum- 6.5%. The other rates at which RBI lends to Residencies and neighbouring buildings important, Your feelings matter and most
fish! They said, stances. banks — the standing deposit facility and suffer the most from this noise pollution, importantly Your life matters.”
‘‘He had seen the Come what may, the marginal standing facility — remain at which causes disrupted sleep, stress and Archi Kankriya, Ujjain
ocean. He had nothing can 6.25% and 6.75%, respectively. The MPC other health issues. Installing sound
been connect- GUIDING LIGHT rob the smile also decided by the same majority to barriers is crucial to mitigate these effects, Dear reader,
We are eager to know your opinions, comments and
ed with the from your remain focused on withdrawing providing residents with much-needed suggestions. Write to editor.indore@fpj.co.in Using snail
ocean.’’ heart. accommodation to ensure that inflation peace. Addressing noise pollution aligns mail? Send your letters to Free Press, Free Press House, 3/54,
The same is the case with Going beyond the limited progressively aligns with the target while with our responsibility for sustainable Press Complex, AB Road, Indore 452008
seekers on the spiritual boundaries, and feeling ‘‘all supporting growth. Just after RBI left urban development and environmental
path who are curious about that exists in this universe
enlightenment. belongs to me,’’ is enlighten- MIKA’S MATRIX
What is Enlightenment? I ment. Enlightenment can-
tell you, enlightenment is not be fully described in
like a joke! It is like a fish in words, it has to be felt just
the ocean searching for the like love that you cannot
ocean. Enlightenment is the truly explain.
very core of our being; Love is not just endor-
going to the core of our Self phins or oxytocin getting
and living our life from produced in your body, it is
there. something that only the
We all came into this heart can know; your exis-
Asian Front Against Imperialism world gifted with tence can feel it.
New York, February 11. The formation of a semi-permanent innocence, but gradually as The funniest thing is that
organisation, "to safeguard the mutual interests of Asian countries, we became more intelligent, it is in everybody, it is in the
and to combat Imperialism" is likely, according to Dr. Soemitro, we lost our innocence. original nature of our being
Indonesian delegate to the United Nations, who led the Indonesian We were born with silence and everybody has it, it just
Delegation to the Asian Conference, recently held at Delhi. and as we grew up, we lost needs some unravelling.
LIVEMINT.COM VIEWS MonDay, 12 February 2024
KolKata 13

MY VIEW | GeNeRal DISeqUIlIBRIUM M I N T C U R AT O R

The strategy behind the budget Doom spending doesn’t mean


the same as caring for yourself
lies embedded in its fine details It is a nihilistic coping mechanism that can strip us of our savings

India’s deficit targets have won praise but the deft re-ordering of spending needed to achieve that has escaped public scrutiny

PTI

SARAH GREEN CARMICHAEL


is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist and
editor.

RAJRISHI SINGHAL
is a senior journalist and author of the recently
released book ‘Slip, Stitch and Stumble: The
Untold Story of India’s Financial Sector Reforms’
@rajrishisinghal

P
lease don’t dabble in doom spending.
The term, which first bubbled up on
social media, has gained steam fol-

M
ost significant government lowing a recent survey by Intuit’s Credit ‘Doom spending’ is expenditure motivated
documents have an underlying Karma. Consider it 2024’s sequel to last by a need to cope with stress ISTOCKPHOTO
strategy. The budget document year’s “girl math.” If girl math was a light-
is usually an amalgam of political, hearted buddy comedy, doom spending is social groups where truly big-ticket items
economic, social and fiscal strat- a horror film. like houses are seen as out of reach, Hood
egies, the different imperatives It’s not the same as retail therapy—shop- notes in the book. The power of luxury
calibrated according to the needs of the day. In an ping to ease personal woes like a breakup goods comes from the way we constantly
election year, there is usually a marked emphasis or a bad day at work. Doom spending is compare ourselves. It’s easy to forget that
on political and social objectives. The interim “spending money despite concerns about the couple posting enviable photos of their
budget presented by finance minister Nirmala the economy and foreign affairs to cope new home might not be able to afford it or
Sitharaman embodies a strategy that attempts to with stress,” says Credit Karma, a credit- that they may well have benefitted from
focus on political and social objectives even while tracking company, and about 27% of Amer- inherited wealth.
demonstrating uncompromising fiscal discipline. icans say they’re doing it. Corporate marketing departments have
The finance minister, as part of a government Self-reported rates of doom spending are long been aware of these psychological
preparing for imminent elections, had multiple higher among men; according to the survey, tricks and have chased after the female
and conflicting objectives. The document had to 33% of men admit to doing it compared with consumer, who controls the majority of
set itself up as a pre-poll document, which it 21% of women. It’s the women I’m more household’s discretionary spending
achieves by tooting a horn on past achievements. worried about, because they already typi- despite her lower earning power.
But the challenge lay in satisfying fiscal hawks cally face a tougher road to financial inde- Historically, those appeals targeted the
while simultaneously pressing the accelerator on pendence. They earn, save and invest less, female buyer’s independence and self-
distributive justice. By targeting the 2024-25 fiscal and have more student debt. worth, whether that’s “You’ve come a long
deficit at 5.1% of gross domestic product (GDP), the The survey finds that young women are way, baby,” (Virginia Slims pitching equal
budget not only makes Indian capital markets much more likely to doom spend than their opportunity) or “Because you’re worth it”
more acceptable to foreign investors, but also mothers and older sisters. Throw in the (L’Oreal selling hair dye). The modern
placates domestic fiscal hardliners who have an financial precarity dogging millennials and equivalent would be algorithm-targeted
inordinately larger share of voice. At the same Gen Z—the New York Fed noted that rising ads selling teas, acupressure mats and sub-
time, it deftly re-allocates social sector outlays credit card and auto loan delinquencies scription supplements as ‘self-care.’
between expenditure heads to areas that need were especially pronounced among Young women can’t afford to give into
immediate funding, thereby satisfying the younger borrowers—and you have a recipe such cynicism. In a 2022 report by the
electoral imperative. for misery. Financial Health Network, 44% of women
The fiscal narrative dominates the budget. What just preceding the elections, the government not Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to leave its policy “The economy sucks, there’s global ages 18-29, compared with 34% of men the
is left unsaid is how the minister was able to not only slashed cooking gas prices for everybody, but rates untouched during its first policy meeting for warming, there’s constant political and same age, said debt has led them to delay
only restrict the fiscal deficit during the current also increased the subsidy for poor households. fiscal year 2024-25. social unrest globally,” a 24-year-old told major life milestones like marriage, home-
year to 5.8% of GDP, despite slower nominal Then there is the timing issue. Outlays for some RBI governor Shaktikanta Das said in a state- Bloomberg News, justifying her purchase of ownership and children. Women are also
growth than estimated, and report a lower absolute of the long-term expenditure items for 2024-25 ment: “The uncertainties in food prices, however, the occasional “little luxury,” like the vin- more likely to say their debts are unman-
deficit number. The axe, predictably, has fallen on have been slashed to accommodate higher budgets continue to impinge on the headline inflation tra- tage Chanel bag she picked up for $2,500. ageable. Putting yourself in a financial hole
capital expenditure, despite the rhetoric around for meeting the urgent need of nursing the rural jectory. Taking into account this growth-inflation “It’s just easier to spend money on things isn’t smart or empowering.
growth-enabling spending. Then there is a pro- economy back to health. A good example is the dynamics and the fact that transmission of the that will bring you immediate fulfilment,” Real self-care is creating and sticking to
nounced re-allocation of funds during the current Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana: while the cumulative 250 basis points policy rate hike is still she continued, especially when saving a budget. It’s true that the old rules of
year. While the government has spent more on final spending during 2023-24 is only ₹17,000 underway, the MPC decided to keep the policy doesn’t seem to bring life’s major expendi- thumb—50% for needs, 30% for wants,
schemes like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural crore against the budgeted ₹19,000 crore, the next repo rate unchanged at 6.50%.” The central bank tures any closer. 20% for savings and paying down debt—
Employment Guarantee programme, it has cut year will see it further slashed to ₹12,000 crore. is currently focused on reducing systemic liquid- She’s right that the rising cost of living might not be possible, particularly for
back spending on rural housing and road schemes, The big inclusion in the interim budget for ity to keep inflationary pressures under check. has hit younger people, along with lower- younger earners early in their careers.
and smart cities. 2024-25 is ₹205,250 crore for free foodgrains. The combination of a tight monetary policy, earning people, especially hard. But at the Housing, food and transportation could eat
The interim budget for the next financial year The pre-poll strategy of displaying fiscal likely inflationary threat, continuing rural stress risk of sounding like a scold, a little luxury up 50% of your budget before you even get
stands out for its notable absence of announce- restraint while continuing with handouts was and impending general elections therefore seems is a latte, not a four-figure bag. to necessities like healthcare or education.
ments on higher subsidies or increased outlays for made inevitable by the repeated economic shocks to have informed the interim budget strategy. But Consumer economies thrive by stoking But that doesn’t mean we throw up our
social-sector schemes. But it must also be remem- to the rural economy: demonetization, the covid here’s the thing. This is only an interim budget our fears that we’ll be left behind if we don’t hands and buy Chanel. It means we save
bered that many announcements had already been pandemic and an inflationary surge over the and the numbers may or may not change when a buy the latest things. “Our susceptibility to whatever we can manage and try to move
made during the November assembly elections. past 18 months, all of which have resulted in sup- full budget is presented by a new government in status symbols comes from our deep need up the income ladder.
For example, the Bharatiya Janata Party promised pressed rural incomes and demand. Even though June or July. By the time the future finance minis- to be accepted, but it is also a way of pro- There’s nothing wrong with a little girl
significantly higher support prices for paddy, apart consumer price inflation has abated somewhat, ter presents a full budget, an entire quarter would tecting ourselves,” writes psychology pro- math but there is something deeply wrong
from guaranteeing additional assistance and bonus settling within the acceptable 2-6% band but have lapsed and the numbers, as well as inten- fessor Bruce Hood in Possessed: Why We with seeking a momentary mood-boost by
pay-outs to farmers. The government also higher than the 4% target, this unsteady equilib- tions, of the interim budget may need to be recast. Want More Than We Need. Luxury goods spending money you don’t have, and then
announced, in the middle of election campaigning, rium is still susceptible to external shocks. But while the interim budget data might be fluid, may change how people perceive us or how ending up with credit card debt or with
the extension of its free-foodgrains scheme for Ongoing geopolitical turbulence could once the intentions are not if we assume the same polit- we see ourselves. nothing saved for retirement.
another five years: under this scheme, over 810 again adversely affect the price line. This ical party will return to power. Interestingly, the When resources feel scarce or our situa- If we ignore that math, doom spending
million people will get free rice, wheat and millets apprehension of incipient inflationary trends government’s intentions are also available for tion chaotic, we focus on what we can con- may go from nihilistic coping mechanism
every month for the next five years. In addition, forced the monetary policy committee (MPC) at parsing from the 2023-24 revised estimates. trol. Expensive items carry more heft in to self-fulfilling prophecy. ©BLOOMBERG

MY VIEW | MODeRN TIMeS

The true meaning of ‘misanthrope’ is in a comedy series


cially English, which has words that do not astonishing clarity about humans because than a “hater of mankind,” who may not Misanthropy is also a layer of morality.
MANU JOSEPH exist in most languages. Through labels, it they find a way to observe their species from even exist. The misanthrope is not a psycho- Once, in the series, Larry David hires a garish
simplifies complexity, and at times manu- the outside, but only one of them is a natural path (who too may not exist but that’s for street sex worker so that he can use the car-
factures ideas that do no exist (just about storyteller. The contemptuous artist is a another day). Everyday misanthropes can pool lane that is unavailable to solo drivers.
anything that ends with ‘ism’). Among its bore, but the amused observer of the herd is see clearly the absurdities of herd behaviour. This is a truly egalitarian man, who only sees
odd words is ‘misanthrope,’ which dictiona- interesting to the whole herd. Across the ages, misanthropes were where he wishes to go and not a class hier-

I
n Curb Your Enthusiasm, a series created by ries interpret as “hater of mankind.” It is not Misanthropy, as a general frustration with among the most influential people. The dis- archy. He gets into a lot of trouble because of
Larry David, he plays a melodramatic ver- an obscure word at all. Yet, its dictionary society, is more main- tant amused observer is a her, but treats her as an equal all through.
sion of what he claims is his real self. Once, meaning is obscure. “Hater of mankind.” stream than it appears at common trope in the arts. Another time, he discovers a Palestinian res-
he encounters a large woman in a shelter for Who hates humans, really? People do say first glance. What else is Misanthropy, Comedians have used it for taurant that serves the best chicken he has
battered women and he suspects she is lying that, but without seriousness. Larry David the government’s family- long. Jerry Seinfeld and ever eaten. This discovery is bad news for
about her trauma because she is so physically himself says that. Yet, he is a man who loves planning policy but a form as a general Larry David tapped it for some adulterous Jews who have been bring-
imposing no man could have battered her. his friends, and even an ex-wife. No one truly of misanthropy? the comedy Seinfeld. The ing their lovers here, confident that they will
Another day, he appoints an African-Ameri- knows the meaning of ‘hating humans.’ At Environmentalism is
frustration with misanthrope is the soul of never be seen by other Jews. Larry David

is a journalist, novelist, and the


can man to behave poorly with Caucasians,
on his behalf. At the peak of the #MeToo
best, it is a lament. Or there could be a form
of mental illness that makes some people
mostly misanthropy. Also
smart investing. You do
society, is more Fleabag, a comedy about
reasonless grief. But the
invites a Jewish friend there who arrives in
a yamaka (Jewish cap). As the man
creator of the Netflix series,
‘Decoupled’
movement in America, when Larry David
finds a date, he persuades her to appear on
despise humans.
But ‘misanthrope’ always had a potential
make money going by the
wisdom of crowds, but you
common than ‘misanthrope’ was never
clearly marked and named
approaches, Larry David, who is Jewish him-
self, figures that he would be debarred from
tape with him giving him consent to get phys- meaning that could describe more than six make much more if you it appears at until someone used it to the diner if the Palestinians see him with
ical. Also, he woos a disabled woman to get weird people, it could describe a human know when to bet against promote Curb Your Enthu- such a conservative Jew. He has to choose
ahead in queues and ends up cheating on her state. Its true meaning lay hidden for centu- the herd. Also, a good diet is first glance siasm. Larry David thus between chicken and Jewish pride. It is a
with another disabled woman. ries as it was appropriated by misguided lin- a misanthropic diet. If you became not only the most no-contest. He wrestles his friend outside
The twelfth and final season of the cult sit- guists who were confused by too much don’t eat how most people famous ‘misanthrope’ in the restaurant to remove his yamaka. Pales-
com dropped a few days ago. Long before knowledge of Greek etymology. do, it usually means you have intelligent eat- the world but also one who was most likely tinians inside the restaurant watch, baffled,
that, Larry David has been celebrated for all The true meaning of ‘misanthrope’ was ing habits. There is a reason why the best way to actually exist. His mistrust of human and Larry David becomes their hero. A true
that is great about him. Except one thing— prophesied by a broad type of people. They to irritate relatives is to follow a healthy diet. beings makes him see through their facades. misanthrope upsets his own tribe more
he is not hailed enough for unintentionally did not hate humans; they had contempt or It makes them feel that you are abandoning In one episode, Larry David discovers some- often than his historic foes.
introducing to the modern world the most just amusement for what humans did. The them as they sink into their slow deaths. thing only he could have—that a hip restau- So often in real life, the misanthrope is an
sensible meaning of the word ‘misanthrope.’ contemptuous and the amused are two dif- A person who is suspicious of the majority rant gives the best seats to attractive people accidental humanitarian, and people who
There is a corrupt side to language, espe- ferent types of misanthropes. Both can have condition deserves a word that means more and hides other people, like him, in the back. call themselves ‘humanists’ are dangerous.
This PDF was uploade To Telegram channel_https://t.me/Magzines_latest_Newspaper(send Me Message telegram ya WhatsApp This number 8890050582)
12 Monday, 12 February 2024
KolKata VIEWS LIVEMINT.COM

OUR VIEW MY VIEW | The INTeRseCTION


MINT

Science fiction must escape the


dystopia it has trapped itself in
Books are increasingly filled with dread of the future at a time we need literature investing in hope

authors and fans who felt that the tion had dystopian themes, up from six
awards had been captured by the pro- the previous year. To add to Orwell’s
gressive left, often going to writers and totalitarian state, Huxley’s eugenics,
themes that emphasized racial and sex- Atwood’s patriarchy and Miller’s
ual diversity. Calling themselves Sad nuclear annihilation, we are now filled
Puppies and Rabid Puppies, they tried with dread from artificial intelligence,
to promote their preferred candidates techno-capitalist and post-human
through block voting, before rules futures. Quite a number of books fea-
were changed to fortify the process ture a post-apocalyptic world brought
NITIN PAI against such operations. Progressives about by climate change. In comparison
is co-founder and director of The won that fight. More broadly, progres- to the dozen or so ways in which we will
Takshashila Institution, an independent sives dominate the world of literature. arrive at a dystopia, there are very few
centre for research and education in public The fact that both prizes and spots on that offer hopeful or balanced visions of
policy. bestseller lists are increasingly filled by the future world.

White paper: It’s politics


people other than Caucasian males is a And young people are growing up on
good thing. Contemporary fiction is no this literary diet, adding to the several

T
here was a big controversy in the longer centred around Caucasian male anxieties they are already surrounded
science-fiction community last heroes. This too is a good thing, even if by. There are more young people in the
month when it emerged that the it sometimes goes too far, as I found in developing world and a hopeful vision

above economic fidelity 2023 Hugo Awards, decided in October


at the world convention in Chengdu,
China, had inexplicably disqualified a
few prominent entries from the list of
some recent novels where superfluous
characters had been written into the
plot to tick-off diversity requirements.
Getting our novels to better reflect
of the future could channelize their
aspirations into positive outcomes.
Hopelessness, gloom and zero-sumness
can easily become self-fulfilling,
nominations.Those quietly dropped the diversity of the world we live is one because the strongest prisons are those
included R.F. Kuang’s bestselling Babel thing. Feeding ourselves a dystopian of the mind.
Even as political tools, such documents perform better by aiming for broad credibility. Its and Xiran Jay Zhao’s Iron Widow, diet through literature is another. It is This is not an argument for a techno-
prompting suspicion that they might unhealthy for the mind and dangerous utopian trip. In a previous column, I
archival value would’ve been notable had it taken an even-handed look at the UPA decade have triggered Beijing’s censorship for society. Yes, George Orwell, Aldous argued why Marc Andreessen’s techno-
filters. Even an entry by the legendary Huxley and Margaret Atwood warned optimist manifesto was dangerously
Neil Gaiman was disqualified. A couple us of how things can go wrong. But for over-the-top.
of heads have rolled since then, but the over a century, science fiction enter- Rather, I am making the case for

T
he white paper brought out by the above 30% in 2004-05 and touched a high of mystery remains. tained and inspired us with the wonder- more imagination. I think it is an indict-
government last week is an excel- 35.8% in 2007-08 before slipping to 33.3% in It should not surprise us that China’s ful possibilities through human agency. ment of the science fiction genre
‘sensitivities’ had something to do with Star Trek and Dr Who, for instance, not today—and perhaps prevalent market
lent document from a campaign 2013-14. Under the NDA, the ratio touched 30% the cancellations, which came to light only envisioned different worlds, social forces—that it is unable to look beyond
perspective. As an assessment of in 2014-15 and then stubbornly stayed below because of the transparent process of systems and ways of life, but gave us conditions of the present. Instead of
the economic performance of the that level. It is worth noting that rural India’s nominating and awarding the Hugos. design specifications and use cases for boldly going where no writer has gone
Congress-led UPA government tele-density, which was below 2% in 2004, rose Beijing’s reputation for censorship is many gadgets that we subsequently before, book after book treads the
(2004-2014), however, it falls short. The United above 50% by 2010, before the policy of auc- well-deserved, but the last few months invented. beaten path to a dystopia.
have seen writers and artists being Science fiction is particularly impor- It cannot be that at a time when we
Progressive Alliance, riven as it was by coalition tioning spectrum began. Urban tele-density de-platformed in Germany and the tant because it primes us for the future, have unprecedented amount of techno-
pressures and constrained by weak leadership, was much higher, of course. Broadband spread, United States for expressing support and we create the future that we collec- logical power dispersed around the
was far from a model of good governance. But computer networks and business process out- for Palestinians. It is simultaneously tively imagine. Some of humankind’s world, we can only think of the many
nor was it the disaster this white paper makes it sourcing flourished, as did infotech services. laughable and outrageous for Ranjit big achievements of the past century— ways in which things could go wrong.
out to be. There can be no cavil at the proposi- Rising prosperity, along with new roads, led to a Hoskote to be accused of anti-Semi- space exploration, global communica- We cannot expect hopeful narratives
tism, as some deluded German tions and avoidance of nuclear war— from activists and policy wonks, but we
tion that the present BJP-led NDA government construction boom, sucking labour out of rural organizers have done, because he once were in part due to the science fiction should expect them from authors of
has been more decisive on policy, more effec- areas and elevating wages widely. Real rural signed an open letter supporting the writers who imagined them first. speculative fiction.
tive in building physical infrastructure and also wages went up on a trot over 2008 to 2014, Palestinian cause. Surveying the scene today, I see that Tailpiece: Unlike the Goodreads
picked capable leadership for the central bank. reducing poverty and stimulating demand. A Now, there always was politics in dystopian themes dominate. Twelve of Readers Choice Awards, the 2023
It has not had to face credible charges of large- frame for a social safety net was put in place. literature and art. A decade ago, the the 20 nominees of the 2023 Goodreads Hugos were not heavy on dystopian
Hugos were targeted by groups of Readers Choice Awards for Science Fic- themes. There is hope.
scale corruption of the kind that bedevilled Interventions in maternal care and child nutri-
the UPA in its last few years, paralysing vital tion slashed maternal and infant mortality rates.
administrative functions such as granting It was the UPA that inducted technology
project clearances and innovating policy. The entrepreneur Nandan Nilekani into the govern-
UPA gave India’s political discourse the phrase ment and turned Aadhaar into a basis for an
‘policy paralysis.’ It is also true that it inherited a array of digital services. The National Payments
growing economy, global conditions favoured Corporation of India, for example, used it for a www.livemint.com
New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Chandigarh*, Pune* Saturday, February 15, 2014 Vol.8 No.40 `10.00 in Delhi­NCR/`11.00 outside Delhi­NCR 12 PAGES
20
+ 20 PAGES LOUNGE

fast growth in the lead-up to the global financial bridge to enable mobile payments for the first Q&A: Legalize betting, says
justice Mukul Mudgal >4
EC0NOMY: Jalan panel may be ready with final
suggestions on new licences by month end >12

crisis of 2007-09, its enlarged fiscal spending to time. Nilekani also rolled out the India Stack, CONTENT PARTNER
AVIATION: SpiceJet posts record
Q3 loss of `173 crore >10
BANKING: RBI begins fresh
audit of United Bank >10

follow joined high global oil prices in stoking which enabled applications like Digilocker. An
SENSEX 20,366.82 Æ 173.47 NIFTY 6,048.35 Æ 47.25 DOLLAR `61.93 æ `0.51 EURO `84.91 æ `0.38 GOLD `30,590 Æ `260 OIL $108.37 Æ $0.28

Wholesale DELHI GOVERNMENT


SBI profit QUICK EDIT
price inflation
Kejriwal resigns, asslumps 34% The PC
effect
inflation, and that the UPA decade left us with a Indo-US nuclear deal was struck in the face of slows to
8­month low
calls for fresh polls
sticky
assets rise F inance minister
P. Chidambaram will
present the final budget—

We must accept finite


B Y A NUP R OY & an interim one—of this
B Y R EMYA N AIR, D INESH U NNIKRISHNAN government on Monday
K IRTHI V . R AO & ························· against the backdrop of
R AGINI V ERMA MUMBAI

‘twin-balance-sheet problem’—of banks being stiff political opposition that not just freed India
easing macroeconomic
·························
NEW DELHI
Development comes
ARVIND YADAV/HINDUSTAN TIMES
S tate Bank of India (SBI)
posted a larger-than-ex-
risks. The current account
deficit has been curbed,

I n a fresh sign that inflation


may have peaked for now,
the Wholesale Price Index
after the AAP loses a
resolution to introduce
pected 34% drop in third quar-
ter profit on Friday as mount-
ing bad loans amid slower eco-
inflation is easing, and it is
quite likely that the fiscal
deficit will be close to its
(WPI)-based inflation eased to the Jan Lokpal Bill in nomic growth took their toll on budgeted target.
an eight-month low of 5.05% in the country’s biggest lender by
the Delhi assembly Chidambaram deserves

disappointment, but never


January, raising industry hopes assets, causing its shares to credit for two of these de-

saddled with bad debt and companies finding from a tech-denial regime of the rich world, but
that the central bank may soon plunge to the lowest level in velopments. He brought a
revisit its tight monetary policy B Y A NUJA & G YAN V ARMA five months. sense of fiscal probity after
stance and turn its sights to re- ························· Net profit fell to `2,234.34 he once again took charge
NEW DELHI
viving economic growth. crore in the three months end- of national finances in Au-
The decline, from 6.16% in
December, will bring relief to
policymakers battling high in-
flation and slow economic
growth, and, of course, the in-
A rvind Kejriwal’s Aam
Aadmi Party (AAP) gov-
ernment in Delhi quit
on Friday, just a day before
what would have been its 50th
ed 31 December

The profit fell short of the


`2,520 crore estimate in a
from
`3,396.06 crore a year earlier.

Bloomberg poll of 38 analysts.


gust 2012. The free fall of
the rupee a year later
made him realize that In-
dia would be at risk unless
its external deficit is re-

themselves over-leveraged. also boosted bilateral relations and the confi-


cumbent Congress-led United day in power, and called for SBI, which is seen as a proxy duced. Meanwhile, a great-

lose infinite hope.


Progressive Alliance ahead of a fresh elections to the state as- for the economy, set aside er focus on inflation con-
general election due by April- sembly. `3,429 crore in the quarter to trol at the Reserve Bank of
May. The immediate trigger for the cover bad loans, against `2,766 India after Raghuram Ra-
Inflation measured by WPI decision to resign was the de- crore in the year-ago period, jan took over helped con-
slowed more than analysts had feat of a resolution to introduce offsetting a 13.1% increase in vince investors that India
expected. A Bloomberg poll the Jan Lokpal Bill in the as- net interest income (interest is serious about stability.
had forecast wholesale price- sembly. Most analysts saw the earned minus interest expend- The next government
based inflation at 5.6% in Janu- resignation as a strategic move ed) to `12,640.52 crore. will inherit a host of prob-

That said, the UPA achieved the fastest eco- dence of US companies to source from and
ary. by the AAP to gain public sym- Gross domestic product lems, from weak growth to
In a separate development, pathy and generate fresh mo- (GDP) growth slowed to 4.5%, a terrible business climate
crop production is expected to mentum for itself ahead of the the least in a decade, in the to weak banks. India is not
clock a 2% increase this year to Lok Sabha election. year ended 31 March 2013 and out of the woods yet. But
touch 263.3 million tonnes The administration of the is estimated to stay lower than Chidambaram deserves
(mt) during the 2013-14 crop state will now revert to the lieu- credit for pulling the econ-
year (July 2013-June 2014) tenant governor (LG) of Delhi. TURN TO PAGE 3® omy back from the brink.
from 257.13 mt last year, the It is not clear whether the LG
ministry of agriculture said, will accept the outgoing chief

nomic growth we have seen, even if the num- invest here. In sum, the UPA decade wasn’t a
signalling a further dampener minister’s recommendation.
on inflationary pressures. The constitution allows him to
Data released by the com- keep the assembly under sus- TELECOM AUCTION
merce ministry on Friday pended animation for six
showed that WPI inflation months, or call for fresh elec-
Investors conclude
Ma rti n Lu the r K i n g Jr .
eased for the second straight tions, or invite either the Bhar-
month mainly due to falling tiya Janata Party (BJP) or the
food prices, especially vegeta-
bles. Food inflation eased to
Congress to form a govern-
ment.
Citizen Kejriwal: The AAP leader addresses his supporters from a window
of the party’s Hanuman Road office in New Delhi on Friday.
spectrum prices are
bers were pegged lower by a revision under the phase that history will judge poorly. Sure, the
8.8% from 13.68% in the pre- “Today, when the Jan Lokpal
ceding month. Fuel prices also Bill has fallen apart, our gov- sive terms in power in the city- ever, a lot will depend on
eased marginally, the data
showed.
With retail inflation also eas-
ernment is giving its resigna-
tion. We can sacrifice posts of
100 ministers for the Lokpal
state.
In its less than two months’
rule, the AAP made several
whether the BJP is able to con-
vey to the people that it was not
against the Bill but the manner
hugely value-dilutive
ing, the new data will likely Bill. We will consider ourselves populist announcements. It re- in which it was brought,” said
provide policy space for the
Reserve Bank of India (RBI),
though analysts expect it to
fortunate if we have to give our
lives for this country,” Kejriwal
told supporters at the party of-
duced electricity tariffs by 50%
for households consuming up
to 400 units of power a month
Sanjay Kumar, a New Delhi-
based political analyst said.
“A sizeable section of people
S hares of Bharti Airtel Ltd
and Idea Cellular Ltd rose
0.96% and 0.68%, respectively,
MARK TO MARKET
MOBIS PHILIPOSE

NDA. Far from discouraging private invest- UPA was no paragon of virtue, but nor was it the
maintain a status quo on rates fice in the national capital after and exempted households that would treat this as drama on on Friday, in response to the
in the next monetary policy re- a meeting of his cabinet. have functional meters con- the part of Kejriwal in trying to final results of the recent was 84% higher than the
view in April. In January, RBI The Jan Lokpal Bill is a key suming up to 20 kilolitres of get out of Delhi and as an ex- spectrum auction. This reserve price set by the
raised its key repo rate, at electoral promise of the AAP water per month from having cuse to engage himself in the resembles more of a dead cat government; the price for pan-
which it lends overnight funds aimed at instituting an inde- to pay for it. bigger battle of 2014. He would bounce rather than a bounce- India 1800MHz spectrum was
to commercial banks, by a pendent anti-corruption om- There were also more con- be more open to contesting the back. These stocks had fallen 29% higher than the reserve
quarter of a percentage point budsman to probe cases of troversial decisions such as au- Lok Sabha election now,” he by 9% and 22%, respectively, price. The price of 900MHz
to 8%. graft. The resolution brought diting of power companies and added. in the past one month on fears spectrum in the three metros
Asia’s third biggest economy by the Kejriwal government to taking on Reliance Industries Kumar also said that the AAP of overbidding. was 2.3 times the price of

ment, its public-private-partnership initiatives bungler this white paper portrays it as. And
has been struggling to contain introduce the Bill was defeated Ltd chairman Mukesh Ambani would ideally like to “paint the True, Reliance Jio 1800MHz spectrum in those
inflation and restore growth 42-27 in the 70-member assem- and oil minister M. Veerappa Congress and the BJP with the Infocomm Ltd didn’t bid as circles; the reserve price set by
momentum. Economic growth bly. Moily over the issue of gas pric- same brush” as being corrupt, aggressively as feared. But the the government had envisaged
eased to 4.5% in the last fiscal In a clear bid to claim the po- ing. and if it succeeds in doing so, it incumbents competed fiercely a premium of roughly 1.6
year, the slowest pace in a dec- litical space occupied by those On Friday, Kejriwal claimed: can reap political gains. between themselves and times.
ade, and is expected to stay be- opposed to corruption, Kejriw- “The BJP and the Congress Kejriwal, who has not been ended up paying more than Analysts at Standard
low 5% in the year ending 31 al accused the Congress and colluded to not allow the Jan able to concentrate on party what analysts and investors Chartered Securities (India)
March. Fresh data released this the BJP of ganging up to pre- Lokpal Bill to be tabled. Why? activities after his swearing-in, had been expecting. The large Ltd said in a note to clients on
week showed manufacturing vent the AAP from putting in This happened because three will now be able to refocus his outlays by incumbent telecom Friday: “We believe the

mobilized huge sums for big infrastructure some of the key reforms it failed at were not for
output contracted for a third place the Jan Lokpal Bill it had days ago we lodged an FIR (first energies. operators will pay back only if industry has overpaid for what
month running, with the Index authored. information report) against The AAP, which has opened growth in data traffic is much is essentially a big bet on data
The AAP, an offshoot of the Mukesh Ambani.” nominations for candidates for higher than current (through 3G in 900MHz and
TURN TO PAGE 2® anti-corruption movement led Political analysts said that the forthcoming Lok Sabha expectations; else tariffs will 4G in 1800MHz).” They expect
by activist Anna Hazare, made the resignation had been ex- election, has already an- need to be hiked by 6-7%. the higher-than-expected
NOTE TO READERS a spectacular debut in the Del-
hi elections in December but
pected and that Kejriwal was
ceding power in Delhi in order
nounced that it would target
constituencies held by high-
Both these factors are
imponderables; and this
spectrum prices to erode
equity value in Bharti Airtel
There is no Mint Markets fell short of a majority, winning to concentrate on the Lok Sab- profile politicians including uncertainty is reflected in the and Idea Cellular by `39 and
28 seats. It was sworn into of- ha election due by April-May. Rahul Gandhi, vice-president share prices of Bharti Airtel `45 per share, respectively.

projects. Gross fixed capital formation as a lack of trying. A more even-handed look at that
with today’s edition.
fice on 28 December with the “Resigning on the issue of of the Congress party; Union and Idea Cellular. Based on this world view,
support of the eight legislators Jan Lokpal Bill is quite on the ministers P. Chidambaram and The winning price for 900 telecom stocks may not
Mint is also available for R14.50 with of the Congress party, which expected lines as he has been megahertz (MHz) spectrum in
Hindustan Times in Delhi-NCR only
was routed after three succes- saying it for a long time. How- TURN TO BACK PAGE ® Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata TURN TO PAGE 3®

proportion of GDP (at current prices) jumped period could’ve had good archival value.

THEIR VIEW

India could help shape a whole new global consensus


large part of the world’s elite, it was the epit- which are increasingly being contested and in October, we had global trade num- This is India’s moment, as New Delhi
HarsH V. Pant ome of human evolution, a world where within as well as among nations. bers that for the first time in many months finds itself in a geopolitical and geo-eco-
conflicts would become marginal thanks to The rise of Donald Trump in US politics [were] up.” nomic sweet spot at a time when the story of
increased economic interconnectedness, was itself a response to the uneven benefits In the last two months, though, we have China has lost a large part of its sheen. With
where identities would be global, and of globalization, and he dramatically seen Yemen’s Houthis deploying relatively the developed world looking inwards and
where global institutions would effectively changed the American political discourse cheap drones and armaments to wreak China’s aggressive orientation towards the

L
ike most years, this year too com- mediate inter-state challenges. on the issue. The Republican Party has havoc with world trade. As the crisis in West outside world, there is a leadership vacuum
menced with the global business and But today’s world is one that is being been traditionally uneasy Asia has escalated, energy that needs to be filled.
intellectual elite making their way to shaped by the forces of geopolitics in more about the Davos Consen- prices have also gone up, India’s significant presence at Davos this
the World Economic Forum at Davos this ways than one. The Ukraine war, the Israel- sus. But Trump, more The Davos with global hopes of a year underlined New Delhi’s willingness to
January in an attempt to demystify the Hamas conflict, the flaring up of threats to than any other president, rapid economic recovery project not only its growing economic heft,
world around and provide some answers to sea-lanes that are critical for global trade, challenged the political model of again under a scanner. but also the country as a source of innova-
the challenges that abound. But by the time and, of course, the China challenge—all basis of economic globali- It is the Global South tion and tech. As trust becomes a key ingre-
the Davos spectacle came to an end, there these are forcing global policymakers to zation and America’s role
globalization that is likely to drive global dient in inter-state relations, India’s ability

is professor of international
were more questions than answers for the
world at large. The Davos Consensus has
look at this crisis-ridden world through a
different lens than what was used in the
in it. Ron DeSantis, Flor-
ida governor and a presi-
is in need of a growth in the coming
years, if present trends are
to craft trust-based partnerships with mul-
tiple players at the same time is a sign of its
relations, King’s College
London, and vice president for
been stuttering for the past few years, with
the covid pandemic having made it abun-
past. The earlier hubris that economic for-
ces would drive global politics is now being
dential candidate on the
Republican side till
successor that anything to go by, with
India being one of the top
growing self confidence as well as a willing-
ness on the part of others to bet on India at
studies and foreign policy at dantly clear that old assumptions about the shunned, as some of the most forceful recently, has called Davos New Delhi could performers. It is, therefore, a time of geopolitical turmoil.
Observer Research world would have to be reassessed in funda- defenders of economic globalization are a “threat to freedom” run imperative for the devel- As external affairs minister S. Jaishankar
Foundation, New Delhi. mental ways. having a rethink. by China. The presence of potentially offer oping world to have this has pointed out, despite many positive out-
In some ways, this rethink should not be Strategic ties between the West and leaders of other major reality better reflected in comes of globalization, “it has also undenia-
surprising, considering that Davos itself China will not get stabilized anytime soon, Western nations has also the agenda of platforms bly led to such deep economic concentra-
was a platform created to reflect the opti- with the pandemic and its aftermath having been thinning over the years. such as the World Economic Forum. tions that much of the world today depends
mism of the global economic order that alerted most nations to the need for self-re- Describing the post-pandemic period as From climate and energy transitions to on production of a few geographies.” He
once prevailed around us. Though more liance in critical sectors and minimal expo- “strange, extraordinary and difficult to ana- the regulation of artificial intelligence, the also said that “the global agenda in so many
than five decades old, it gained particular sure to long and complex supply chains lyze,” European Central Bank president role of the Global South and nations such as ways today is about restoring the world to
traction during the days of irrational global overseas. Few are willing to go back to the Christine Lagarde suggested that global India should be critical, and for that new its natural diversity.” It is for India now to
exuberance over an emerging economic supposed golden age of globalization in the trade, which was disrupted in the last two coalitions and a more focused agenda will evolve a new consensus that could in some
order shaped by hyper-globalization. For a late 1990s and early 2000s, the benefits of years, “is beginning now to really pick up have to be formulated. ways challenge the Davos Consensus.
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businessline.
MONDAY - FEBRUARY 12 - 2024

MONDAY - FEBRUARY 12, 2024


Public goods: An agenda for Modi
Modi has neglected the software of vikas — the high-handedness of the bureaucracy and the police in particular
Code for change LINE &
LENGTH.
IBC needs systemic rather than legal reforms
TCA SRINIVASA RAGHAVAN

T he recently tabled Standing Committee


‘action taken’ report on the working of the
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code makes
suggestions at two levels: first, on the functioning of
the agencies involved in the process such as the A
ll through last week the
Prime Minister vigorously
highlighted the
achievements of his
government since 2014.
These are varied and several and have
National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), the been acknowledged. He has also said
resolution professionals, the Insolvency and that his third term, which he seems to
Bankruptcy Board of India; and second, on the need have taken for granted, would see many
rapid transformative reforms.
to review the “design of the code” itself. The latter He probably has several on his list
finds a brief and almost cryptic mention towards but, in case he has missed a few, he
the end. should now consider focusing on
reforming an important part of what
Indeed, it is worth wondering whether Karl Marx called the superstructure, or
whether the problems that beset the IBC the administrative and legal
arrangements. Indeed, these form the
process — delays in resolution and poor basis of what the Europeans call social
value realisation — require changes in the democracy.
Code itself. The IBC has been amended on Get them right and you get a just and
many occasions since its inception in 2016, kind society. But continue with the
colonial style and arrangements and
and the necessary provisions would appear you get what India is today — brutal, doing, he must recognise that welfare of service. Its ethos today is colonial: me colonial view of governance, the ‘Me
to be in place to achieve the desired unjust and unkind, which is the chief goes well beyond the successful ruler, you native. Likewise, the police. Tarzan, you Jane’ way. It was initially
improvement. For now, the priority should characteristic of underdevelopment. provision of physical goods and The same change of ethos is needed rooted in racial superiority. Now it’s just
e2085190

e2085190
lie in fixing the governance aspects. The The hardware of development changing street names. As economists there, too. For instance, the fact that a superiority.
doesn’t compensate for the absence of say, those are necessary but not constable is empowered to arrest a If you work for the state you not only
report makes pertinent points on the bench its software. As with computers it’s sufficient. citizen on mere suspicion is, when you have power, you also get precedence,
strength of the NCLT. It credits the Centre good superstructure software that will think about it, a truly extraordinary the “don’t you know who I am” attitude.
with plugging vacancies at the NCLT, tell the world India is a developed MAIN TASK power. Suspicion? Arrest? Wow! No The British didn’t have to ask that
saying that the bench strength today is over country. Three things must be his priority: a wonder our policemen are so scary. question. The colour of their skin said it.
90 per cent of its sanctioned strength of 62 Therefore, there are two things Modi bureaucracy that’s not obsessed with As for the judiciary, it also presents a Can Modi address this problem,
must fix. One relates to the provision of wielding petty power; a police force huge problem because it’s empowered especially after he talked at such length
members. But since there are “perpetual public goods, which includes services. which is not ill-treating citizens because itself to judge itself. Needless to say, it about the failures of the Congress in
vacancies” on account of retirement and The other relates to the relationship it can; and a judiciary which is less doesn’t do a very good job of it. As Arun ridding the country of colonial vestiges
completion of members’ terms, the between the agents of the state like the erratic. These three elements are the Shourie pointed out 40 years ago, it’s and notions, which include attitudes?
sanctioned strength needs to be raised — to bureaucrats, policemen and judges on most essential components of public flip-flop all the way. Colonial attitudes shaped the tools of
the one hand and the citizens on the goods. What these three components of colonialism. Getting rid of the latter
address “the huge pendency of more than other. Take the bureaucracy first. Modi public goods have in common, though, won’t be possible, except cosmetically,
20,000 cases in NCLT at the end of every The two are intimately linked. So far needs to convert it, a la Europe, from an is the lack of transparency and unless the attitudes are transformed.
year”. However, the NCLT is hobbled not Modi has had very limited success with instrument of control to an instrument accountability. Unlike the politicians, Let me put it very bluntly. If the
just by bench strength issues, but also by its them. He has chosen to solve the none of them needs to explain their upper castes treated the others with
problem with technology. That’s not actions. All three can pretty do much as disdain and demanded preferential
style of working. Its members, judicial and enough. Three things must be they please. Millions of citizens can go treatment, in independent India it’s the
technical, could do with more domain Since these three agents of the state Modi’s priority: a and smoke a pipe. agents of the state who do so. It’s the
knowledge of bankruptcy matters in an are the chief means of governance, they The Right to Information Act had red light on car syndrome.
evolving business landscape — such as the are an integral part of public goods, or bureaucracy that’s not sought to address this problem. But These people are the new upper
metrics of valuing service-sector two sides of the same coin. If Modi obsessed with wielding over the years it’s been made castes to whom power and entitlement
doesn’t fix them, his overall successes increasingly ineffective. flows not from birth but from office. But
companies. A recruitment process that will be incomplete and, frankly petty power; a police force the end result is the same.
encourages young professionals, given the speaking, no different from that of all which is not ill-treating WHAT’S TO BE DONE Modi may well think of himself as the
technical and legal expertise in bankruptcy the previous governments. At its very core, the problem is of pradhan sevak but what about all those
To truly shed the colonial holdovers,
citizens because it can; and a extreme empowerment of the agents of below him? How do they view
in India, could infuse the NCLT with a judiciary which is less erratic.
which he told the Rajya Sabha he was the state. This lay at the heart of the themselves?
sense of contemporaneity.
Dedicated NCLT benches to deal with
bankruptcy matters are needed, given the
expertise involved vis-a-vis corporate
affairs on the whole (now benches hear all
corporate cases) as well as the sheer
Rooftop solar scheme calls for ecosystem changes
number of bankruptcy cases. With
specialists in place, members need not be It must be backed by financial assistance and scaling up equipment production and skill levels across the rooftop value chain
slotted as ‘judicial’ and ‘technical’. In the Currently, many Distribution
US, for instance, there is just one judge on Amarendu Nandy Companies (Discoms) lack complete
every bankruptcy bench. India can move Aayush Anand information about the actual
towards that set-up so that cases can be behind-the-meter RTS installed capacity.

O
dealt with swiftly and correctly. Appeals for n January 22, the Prime Minister Access to such data can improve forecast
launched the ‘Pradhan Mantri accuracy and streamline the integration
appellate review can come down; delays at Suryodaya Yojana’ (PMSY), of renewables into the grid.
the admission stage can be addressed. aiming to provide rooftop solar (RTS) Fourth, to support thewidespread
The report says that the competence of panels to 10 million low and adoption of RTS, there is a critical need to
resolution professionals, who are expected middle-income households. In the upgrade the entire power supply chain.
interim Budget 2024, the Finance Given the intermittent nature of
to run the affairs of the ‘sick’ company till it Minister announced that beneficiaries renewable energy, emphasis should be
is revived or liquidated, prepare an will receive free electricity up to 300 units placed on energy storage solutions and
‘information memorandum’ on its status per month and can sell surplus solar government amended the Electricity additional solar and net meters would be optimised grid operations to better
and scout for buyers, leaves much to be energy, potentially saving them (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020, required to commission these sites match demand with supply. Further, the
desired. While the IBBI does crack down on ₹15,000-18,000 annually. introducing ToD tariffs that provisions successfully. Although there are plans for increasing interconnectedness of the
ANovember 2023 CEEW report separate rates for peak, solar, and normal 7.4GW of solar module production via power sector also demands an upgrade in
RP malpractices, a capacity-building body estimates the technical potential of hours. The Rules shall enable reductions production-linked initiatives by October cybersecurity and additional safety
that assesses them periodically is needed. residential RTS to be around 637 GW, in tariffs of up to 20 per cent during solar 2024, evaluating whether this production measures to prevent breaches.
These steps could bring down resolution underscoring the significance of the hours and increases of up to 20 per cent capacity can meet the overall Fifth, given thatelectricity comes
time from over 650 days (against the legal PMSY scheme. The initiative will during peak night hours — a move requirements is essential. Emphasis under the Concurrent List, it is
hopefully help bridge the historical gap in anticipated to nudge consumers to adopt should be placed on indigenously imperative to acknowledge the diverse
limit of 330 days), improve valuations and RTS uptake compared to and use solar energy solutions. manufactured components to avoid policies, regulations, and tariff structures
raise revival prospects of concerns vis-a-vis ground-mounted solar installations. As The PMSY scheme represents a vulnerabilities in the external supply across States. Comprehensive input and
liquidation. of December 31, 2023, India had installed positive stride toward achieving India’s chain. feedback from all stakeholders will be
only 11.08 GW of grid-connected RTS, energy security objectives and meeting Second, as the PMSYscheme crucial to optimise the economic benefits
contrasting with 56.92 GW of our international obligations to involves installing at least 10GW of new of solar adoption across the country. The
ground-mounted solar plants. transition to a low-carbon economy. solar capacity, there is a pressing need to strategy should not only account for how
Recently, the government has However, from a policy perspective, enhance the skill and capability of greater RTS adoption will benefit
increased subsidies for indigenously certain issues pertaining to the adoption individuals throughout the value chain. consumers by reducing their energy
FROM THE VIEWSROOM. manufactured, grid-connected of RTS in general, and PMSY in This includes training additional costs, but also consider means to
residential RTS plants in general and particular, warrant attention. workforce in designing and installing enhance the financial viability of
special category states (see Table). The First, the urgencyof enhancing the solar systems and educating consumers Discoms to foster overall economic
UK FTA: Proceed with care PMSY in tandem with the Central
Financial Assistance scheme, is expected
end-to-end supply chain becomes
apparent when considering the scale of
on proper maintenance. State regulatory
commissions should also explore ways to
growth at the sub-national level.
That said, the PMSY, if executed
protect in most areas where the to significantly boost the adoption of PMSY. Assuming a minimum installation effectively manage demand by effectively, holds the promise of
Amiti Sen UK is aggressively pushing its rooftop solar plants in India. of 1 kW per household, the required solar encouraging end-users to use electricity positioning India as a credible global
agenda, and is not prepared to The PMSY scheme also comes at an modules, inverters, and accessories for during solar hours. leader in advancing the goal of
opportune time as it precedes the one crore households amount to 10GW, Third, the transitionof end-users sustainable economic growth.

I
t is encouraging to note that make offers beyond its level of
the BJP-led government is comfort. implementation of the time of day (ToD) which is nearly 90 per cent of the from consumers to prosumers
not trying to conclude the The BJP government has tariff for household consumers, slated to cumulative rooftop solar capacity necessitates the creation of a digital Nandy is Assistant Professor, Economics Area, IIM Ranchi,
negotiations for the India-UK correctly realised that giving in commence by April 1, 2025. Last year, the installed to date. Further, one crore repository of installed capacity. and Anand is Executive, BSNL. Views are personal
Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in a to all demands made by the UK in
hurry, before the general sensitive sectors just before the
elections. elections in order to seal the deal
If the negotiations have could only be detrimental. BELOW THE LINE
dragged on despite both sides Due to increased scrutiny
expressing hopes of its from all quarters just before the provided ‘entertainment’. Modi went admirable in Vijay’s case, his fans the previous regime for fiscal be. A member suggested Zifo, and
conclusion since the Diwali of elections, the risk of the on to add, “I was listening to Kharge ji claim, is that unlike his predecessors, mismanagement, while the everybody agreed to it. Zifo does not
2022, it is in some measure due criticism for giving in to pressure and enjoyed a lot. The entertainment their real-life hero is making his Opposition’s Black Paper accuses mean anything. When a clarification
to UK’s aggressive stand in may easily outweigh the plaudits that we are missing in Lok Sabha was political move when he is at the top the current administration of bias was asked by a government official
certain key areas. for signing the pact. completed by you (Kharge).” of his game. And by extension, he has against non-BJP governed States. As on what Zifo means, a member said it
These much talked about areas Confident of being in power Political watchers, however, are sacrificed at least ₹300 crore even politicians trade blows, the real was Zeal and Innovation Focus.
of UK’s interest include greater for another term, some wondering, with diminishing before his party is registered, they question remains: will these papers But the story did not end there. After
market access for Scotch and representatives of the BJP numbers of Congress members in claim (Vijay reportedly charges ₹150 bring any tangible change for the a few days, someone raised a valid
automobiles (including EVs), government expressed hopes both Houses, who would be crore per film and he does about two common man, or are they just more question: Hope the word does not
liberalisation of legal services that if the India-UK FTA providing “entertainment” in the movies a year). This “original and noise in an endless cycle of political mean anything adverse in any other
and financial services such as negotiations fail to conclude ‘Entertainment deficit’ next LS or RS. straight-from-the-heart” script will rhetoric? country? Raj said none thought
banking and insurance, strict now, it could be continued later. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his be a sure blockbuster, they contend. about this. The company has
reply to Motion of Thanks on the Politics, dil se Name makes a difference presence in many countries, and so
Intellectual Property Rights It remains to be seen whether Sound and fury?
(IPRs) benefiting pharma biggies India is able to continue resisting President’s address in the Rajya All reports on Kollywood star Vijay’s It’s easy to name a company but far no one has complained about the
and lenient Rules of Origin to pressure and avoid an unequal Sabha on Saturday, took potshots at political foray invariably list out the In the latest political skirmish over there is a lot more to it as Raj name. However, the fear remains, he
allow UK companies to continue pact favouring the partner Mallikarjun Kharge, the Leader of the names of other matinee idols who economics, the government and the Prakash, CEO, Zifo, and his team adds. So, when you name a company
to benefit from its supply chains country. Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, by had taken a shot at the CM's chair in Opposition have released realised. In 2008, Raj and his team differently, first look for what it
integrated with the EU. After all, a no deal is any day saying that he enjoyed listening to the past and in the not-so-distant contrasting documents. The debated for a whole day on what the means in other countries.
India has its own interests to better than a bad deal. the Congress President as he past. But what is unique and government’s White Paper blames name of the new company should Our Bureaus

Published by N. Ravi at Kasturi Buildings, 859 & 860, Anna Salai, Chennai-600002 and Printed by SDT Rao at Plot No. Z-6 to 8, IDA Uppal, Hyderabad-500007 – 06, on behalf of THG PUBLISHING PVT LTD., Chennai-600002. Editor: Raghuvir Srinivasan (Editor responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act). ISSN 0971 - 7528

CM
YK . . . . . . . . HY-HYE
THE HINDU
6 Monday, February 12, 2024

Editorial Delhi

Pakistan’s democratic revolution, with seam and swing


I
mran Khan has won the general elections Staff (now retired General Bajwa) and Mr. Khan, At the moment, there is a great deal of
in Pakistan. However, he will not be able to regarding the tenure of the then and next Chief, bargaining, negotiation and horse-trading in
Parliamentary affairs form a government or become Prime
Minister. Even though he did not contest
opened up, causing huge fissures between the
military and Mr. Khan. Eventually, through much
order to create a government in Pakistan. The
PML(N) is in discussions with other parties and
The last session of the 17th Lok Sabha the elections and his party, the Pakistan manoeuvring and through a constitutional hopes to lead the government, especially in
Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI), was denied its election process which involved a vote of no confidence partnership with the PPP. On the other hand, the
served as a preparatory forum for polls symbol on the ballot paper, his party, contesting S. Akbar Zaidi against him in April 2022 in Parliament, the PTI PPP is apparently talking to the many
as ‘Independents’, has emerged as the largest government was removed with all PTI elected independents hoping to lead the government.

W
ith the conclusion of the last session is a political
of the 17th Lok Sabha on Saturday, group in Parliament. It has an overwhelming economist and heads representatives eventually resigning from The PTI, which does not exist as a parliamentary
the bugle has been sounded and the majority in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and is a very the Institute of Parliament. In its place, the Pakistan Democratic party at the moment, is also claiming that it will
battle lines drawn for the general election. Prime close second in the largest province, Punjab. Business Movement, made up of over a dozen different form the government which, while unlikely, is not
Minister Narendra Modi mounted a sharp attack Moreover, leaders of the PTI are claiming that Administration (IBA), parties, but led essentially by Nawaz Sharif’s an impossibility. The incumbent President of
dozens of seats have been stolen from them and Karachi Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, or PML(N) and Pakistan, who needs to invite the ‘largest party’
on the Congress and its leaders in his various in-
terventions during the session, while avoiding they would have won an absolute majority in the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) led by Asif in the new Parliament to form the government,
criticism of any of the regional parties or their Parliament and the Punjab as well. They intend to Zardari and Bilawal Bhutto, formed the was elected from the PTI.
leaders. After the unprecedented suspension of challenge these results in court over the next few government which lasted until the tenure of There are also major players on the scene who
146 members during the winter session, the last days, which may see their tally rise. Parliament came to an end in August 2023. may have their own plans. Asif Zardari might be
session began on a more cheerful note. All mem- This is a phenomenal victory for Pakistan’s Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who was wanting to become President again if the Prime
bers were back in the House, including the 14 former Prime Minister who has been in jail for in exile in London because he was found guilty of Minister is from the PML(N). Moreover, Nawaz
Members of Parliament (MP) whose cases were almost a year, has had no access to the electorate corruption and was banned for life for holding Sharif’s daughter is being seen as the Chief
referred to the privilege committees of the two and has not participated in electioneering (his public office or contesting elections, was able to Minister of Punjab, which would mean that
Houses. The committees cleared their names, name cannot even be mentioned on television). A return to Pakistan in October 2023. Remarkably, Nawaz Sharif’s brother, Shahbaz Sharif, and not
just ahead of the session. But Aam Aadmi Party few days before the election, he was given three within a few weeks, the major cases against him Nawaz Sharif, might become Prime Minister.
(AAP) MP and leader Sanjay Singh, who was re- prison terms after being found guilty on charges were overturned and he was allowed to contest Then there is Bilawal Bhutto, a new, confident,
cently reelected to the Upper House, could not which include corruption, getting married the elections, receiving a complete clean sheet, aspirant for prime ministership.
take oath on the ground that the breach of privi- illegally and revealing state secrets. He has also and resurrected anew. The Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir,
lege cases against him moved in his previous been barred from running for public office for 10 With Mr. Khan in jail, his party the PTI losing has made his preferences clear, stating that
term are still pending. The Rajya Sabha privileges years and has over 170 other cases against him. its electoral symbol, PTI candidates hounded by “Pakistan’s diverse polity and pluralism will be
committee has not even scheduled a meeting. un-named goons while campaigning, their well-represented by a unified government of all
hustings broken, and where many were attacked democratic forces imbibed with national
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The session was extended by a day to debate a The plan that failed
resolution on the Ram Temple. The Left parties This was certainly not the intention nor the plan. and picked up in the middle of the night, the plan purpose.” It is a clear message to all the
were the only ones to take a clear stand in their The powers that be — what is called the was to ensure that Mr. Sharif’s PML(N) would win participants.
boycott by announcing that they would not be a ‘Establishment’ in Pakistan — largely the military with a clear majority. He was considered a
party to any communal agenda. The other Oppo- and those who subscribe to its bidding, had shoo-in, to become Prime Minister for the fourth The core contradiction
sition parties, not willing to invite any controver- worked out a very different scenario. From time. There was complete consensus on this The core contradiction in Pakistan’s politics, as of
sy, came up with different reasons to stay away. around November 2021, Mr. Khan and the likelihood, yet the plan came badly undone. now, is between Imran Khan and the military.
The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, in the Lok military had a major and public falling out. It remains to be Essentially, both parties are competing for the
Sabha, cited the plight of Tamil fishermen, and, Ironically, it was the military establishment that seen what The time for parleys same political constituency — primarily, young
in the Rajya Sabha, focused on the Centre’s indif- had got rid of Nawaz Sharif in 2017 and began happens after Despite allegations of widespread rigging — supporters in the Punjab and
ference towards the destruction caused by flood- supporting Mr. Khan when he was not yet the Pakistan’s leading journalist Hamid Mir said on Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
Prime Minister. It is widely believed — and there is
Pakistan’s television that the “PML[N] supporters are saying In every single public survey conducted in
ing in the State to stay away from the proceed- controversial
ings. The Trinamool Congress and AAP MPs were ample evidence to support the claim — that the that they have received more votes on 9 February Pakistan over the last two years, Mr. Khan has, by
not to be seen. The last five years have been un- military establishment enabled Mr. Khan’s victory general than on 8 February, the day of the elections” — a huge margin, always emerged as the most
precedented in Indian parliamentary history. in the 2018 elections, which made him Prime elections, with and numerous other impediments to there being popular politician and leader in Pakistan. At the
Parliament shifted to newer and much larger pre- Minister. Imran Khan’s free and fair elections, the PTI has completely same time, in each of these surveys, almost every
cincts, amid criticism of its design, from the Brit- For around three years, the military leadership Pakistan sabotaged the Establishment’s plan. A noticeably single time, the military emerges as the ‘most
ish-era building. Paradoxically, just as parliamen- and Mr. Khan were ‘on the same page’, a phrase Tehreek-e- subdued Mr. Sharif, who was expected to make a trusted’ or popular institution in Pakistan. Given
tarians got more room, the 17th Lok Sabha which was repeated ad nauseum by both parties victory speech on the day of the elections, the huge contradiction between the two, the
to show that the PTI government had the
Insaaf appeared 24 hours later on television claiming election results from last week clearly show, at
witnessed the continuous erosion of the role of sabotaging the
the Opposition. In a first, the Lok Sabha func- military’s backing and was in a comfortable and victory and giving a call for a government which least for now, who has won this last contest.
tioned without a Deputy Speaker — a post that is safe position to complete its five-year tenure. establishment’s would include most parties, but not Imran Khan’s
conventionally occupied by the Opposition — for Disagreements between the then Chief of Army plan PTI. The views expressed are personal
the entire term. The five years were also marked
by a steady decline in the Opposition’s bench

A privileged strategic partnership, without a gulf


strength in the Rajya Sabha. The Congress has
only 30 members in the Upper House, far behind
the 93 members from the Bharatiya Janata Party.
The government had its way and say, while the
Opposition spent time on the sidelines.

P
rime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled also the fourth-largest overall investor in India. the Abu Dhabi Festival (ADF), the UAE’s annual
to pay an official visit to the United Arab The India-UAE Comprehensive Economic cultural festival. During his visit to the UAE in
Conjuring a catharsis Emirates (UAE) from February 13-14, 2024
which will include inaugurating a temple built by
Partnership Agreement, signed on February 18,
2022 in a record time of 88 days, aims to increase
August 2019, Mr. Modi was conferred the UAE’s
top civilian honour, the Order of Zayed. Sheikh
The White Paper on the economy the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam trade in services to $115 billion in five years. On Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan (Crown Prince
Swaminarayan Sanstha in Abu Dhabi. This is Mr. February 1, 2024, the Indian government also of Abu Dhabi and the Deputy Supreme
is a political diversion Modi’s seventh visit to the UAE since 2015 and the Rajeev Agarwal approved the signing and ratification of a bilateral Commander of the UAE armed forces) was the
third in the last eight months. In this short investment treaty with the UAE, which would chief guest at the Republic Day parade in Delhi in

T
he Finance Ministry, in a White Paper on a retired colonel, is
the economy placed in Parliament, has duration, India’s relationship with UAE has the Assistant Director significantly boost bilateral economic January 2017. The UAE was one of few nations
accused the Manmohan Singh-led United evolved into becoming one of the most of the Manohar engagement, especially manufacturing and specially invited for the G-20 summit, in
Progressive Alliance (UPA) of 2004-2014, of prominent bilateral relationships for New Delhi. Parrikar Institute for foreign direct investment. September 2023, under India’s G-20 presidency.
botching the economy. The Ministry has sought Not only has the UAE become India’s strategic Defence Studies and Fintech is yet another area of mutual The IIT Delhi Abu Dhabi campus has been
credit for the Narendra Modi-led National Demo- partner but it has also become one of the most Analyses (MP-IDSA), convergence. The RuPay card, a key component established, and the UAE opened a consulate in
cratic Alliance (NDA) government’s repair and re- important linchpins of India’s engagement in the New Delhi. He has of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), is Hyderabad in June 2023.
Gulf region. There is a close rapport between the served as Director in accepted in the UAE since August 2019, while
form job since 2014 for lifting India to the world’s
the Ministry of
fifth largest economy from one of the ‘Fragile President of the UAE, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed from July 2023, the rupee was being accepted for Strategic ties
External Affairs and as
Five’ 10 years ago. It listed 15 “high-profile” UPA Al Nahyan, and Mr. Modi. Director, Military
transactions at Dubai’s airports. India and the Within the region, both countries are in close
“scams”, including coal, 2G spectrum, the Com- The BAPS temple, which is built on a 27-acre Intelligence UAE also operationalised a rupee-dirham coordination and a part of a number of important
monwealth Games and even a ₹44 crore misap- plot of land donated by the UAE President, will be settlement system when, in August 2023, the groupings such as the I2U2 or the West Asian
propriation case in the Jammu & Kashmir cricket the second big Hindu temple to be inaugurated in Indian Oil Corporation made a rupee payment to Quad comprising India, Israel, the United States
board. Hours before this, the Congress released a the UAE in recent years, the first being the Hindu the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company for crude oil and the UAE. The UAE is also part of the
Black Paper on “10 years of Anyay Kaal (Era of In- Temple in Dubai, opened in October 2022. imports. India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor
justice)”. It highlights this government’s “eco- Mr. Modi will also address the World (IMEEC) infrastructure project that was signed
nomic blunders” such as demonetisation (so- Government Summit on February 14 in Dubai as Energy security during the G-20 summit in Delhi. The corridor
mething the White Paper is silent on), the flawed the ‘Guest of Honour’. The UAE is also India’s trusted partner in energy aims to connect India to Europe across the
GST regime, the unemployment situation with security, being the only nation from the region Arabian peninsula, and is a potential rival to
stagnant wage growth, farmers’ distress, and The pillars of ties which has strategic oil reserves stored in India. China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
high inflation despite crude oil prices being lower The India-UAE story however goes beyond An agreement was signed in Indian Strategic The visit also comes at a critical time with the
than in the UPA’s times. Finance Minister Nirmala temples, faith or the signing of strategic Among India’s Petroleum Reserves Ltd (ISPRL) and the Abu war in Gaza enveloping the region. The visit will
Sitharaman questioned the UPA’s ‘extra-constitu- partnerships. This special relationship was Dhabi National Oil Company to to invest in the provide the two leaders an opportunity to confer
strategic
tional’ governance system and Dr. Singh’s failure evident when the UAE President was felicitated in strategic crude oil storage facility in Mangaluru on this very critical issue.
a road show when he was in Gandhinagar in
partnership with an initial investment of $400 million. India has numerous strategic partnership
to undertake reforms that were still pending after
the 1991 liberalisation rush, and said this govern- January this year as the chief guest of the 10th agreements, Defence and security cooperation and agreements across the globe, but none displays
ment delivered on those reforms and beyond. Vibrant Gujarat Summit. The convergence of none displays people-to-people ties too are critical cogs in the more convergence and mutual respect at all levels
She even invoked cases from the 1950s and 1970s ideas on global climate issues too was clear when more relationship. than the one with the UAE. There are few major
to argue that corruption runs in the Congress’s Mr. Modi was in Dubai for the COP28 climate convergence Both countries have often gone out of their issues of divergence, which is something unique
DNA. summit. Both India and the UAE co-launched the and mutual way to make exceptions for each other. When the even among the best of friendly nations. While
The government’s assertion that the White Global Green Credit Initiative. UAE hosted the OIC Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in India recognises and values the UAE’s role in the
respect at all
Paper will serve as a record for posterity for In- Another special and strong pillar is the 2019, it invited India’s External Affairs Minister region, the UAE too is cognisant of the ‘global
economic partnership. Bilateral trade grew to $85 levels than the (the late) Sushma Swaraj as a keynote leadership’ role that India is set to acquire. Both
dia’s youth to know the efforts it took to undo the
UPA-era damage and “restore India’s glory”, be- billion in 2022-23, making the UAE India’s one with the speaker/guest of honour country despite protests countries recognise that this privileged strategic
lies its anxiety that the young may not be adeq- third-largest trading partner and India’s United Arab from some nations, including Pakistan. Earlier, in partnership is only set to grow stronger in the
uately convinced about recent years’ outcomes. second-largest export destination. The UAE is Emirates 2018, India was the ‘Guest of Honour’ country at years ahead.
That may explain the curious absence of real GDP
growth and employment rates in the UPA and
NDA years from the data-laden paper, which even LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
compares waste volumes processed by urban lo-
cal bodies. The paper argues the UPA failed to de- ‘New era of governance’ Till date, the ill-effects of any doubt that the unwise to write the army A jaw-dropper President.
liver GST and use Aadhaar effectively, but the The report, “Parliament demonetisation or lopsided consecration will be one of off, as it still wields That Hungarian President Bidyut Kumar Chatterjee,
NDA embraced and delivered on both. That a few hails temple consecration GST implementation have the main talking points in significant influence and Katalin Novak has resigned Faridabad, Haryana
BJP States, including Gujarat, had reservations resolution” (Page 1, not been explained by the the BJP’s campaign. may work towards forming for pardoning a man
about GST and Aadhaar at the time is a lost February 11), is amusing. ruling party even once. It is C.V. Aravind, a coalition government of convicted as an accomplice Road safety in Tamil Nadu
nuance. The NDA had a resounding majority One is really at a loss to time good sense prevails. Bengaluru its choice to keep the for helping cover up a sex It is not uncommon to see
twice, but has yet to find a consilient approach to understand how such a People are not interested in PTI-backed independents at abuse case in a children’s many in Tamil Nadu driving
undertake critical pending factor market reforms religious ceremony can empty slogans. The Pakistan result bay. As it is often quipped in home is an eye-opener. In a two-wheeler distracted —
such as on land (an ordinance approach was ‘usher in a new era which A. Shreevas, The election outcome in political circles, it must not India we not only give a mobile in one hand or a
abandoned in 2015) and labour (new Codes are will make generations Chennai Pakistan could affect the be forgotten that though remission but also felicitate baby being balanced
yet to kick in), while it had to backtrack on farm proud’. The Prime Minister, already precarious state of the Pakistani Army has not criminals, as seen in the precariously (Tamil Nadu,
sector reforms. The UPA was a rainbow coalition who avoided mentioning in As speculated, the BJP is the country, reeling under won any wars, it has not Bilkis Bano case. “Road accidents and
that navigated tricky terrains such as telecom and Parliament burning issues striving to reap a rich the effects of a devastated lost any elections either. One wishes that Indian fatalities register an upward
insurance FDI liberalisation and the India-U.S. ci- such as Manipur, or issued a political dividend. What is economy, rising militancy, Michael Jom, politicians take the cue trend in Tamil Nadu”,
vil nuclear deal. India’s reform journey has been clarification on what some however hard to digest is internal political instability, Thiruvananthapuram from the Hungarian February 11). In the absence
marked by successive governments building on States are calling as an the attempt being made to and strained relations with of any action or penalty for
Corrections & Clarifications
past efforts, rather than reversing course, and, in inequitable distribution of pass off the consecration as Iran. The result so far is a such errant driving,
hindsight, many opportunities may be consi- resources to them, has been a victory for secular India. setback to the Pakistani In the report titled “Allow NREGS workers to choose how to be paid: plea” accidents will rise. Drivers
(February 10, 2024), the name of the NGO-petitioner was erroneously
dered missed or bungled. The paper seems to be waxing eloquent on stray Although the Election army, which indirectly need to shed the ‘do not
mentioned as the Association for Democratic Reforms. It should have
an attempt to temper voters’ higher expectations subjects, ensuring that the Commission of India has backed Nawaz Sharif’s party been the Swaraj Abhiyan. care for my safety or that of
from a government with a majority mandate. But Opposition or States do not frowned on the use of caste against Imran Khan’s others’ attitude.
a pointed finger leads to three pointing right get a chance to mention and religion in political Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf. The Readers’ Editor’s office can be contacted by Telephone: A. Mohan,
+91-44-28418297/28576300; E-mail:readerseditor@thehindu.co.in Chennai
back. It is no surprise that the White begot Black. their genuine grievances. campaigns, there is hardly However, it would be
CM A ND-NDE
YK
THE HINDU
Monday, February 12, 2024 7
Delhi
Opinion

How women can be represented in politics Jagan Reddy’s unusually aggressive posture
What compelled him to bring up special category status and attack the Centre

W
ith the Women’s and the BJP and two constituencies where the Congress
Reservation Bill independents). This is four fewer fielded male candidates against
being passed in than the number in the outgoing the BJP’s female candidates. Of tion has been upping its
Parliament last Assembly. It is surprising that the these, the BJP won six seats while STATE OF PLAY ante on the issue. But it is
year, the debate on whether quota political parties were not the Congress won seven. It is not just the YSRCP; the TDP-
within political parties or in enthusiastic about giving ticket to important to note that the Sumit Bhattacharjee Jana Sena Party combine has
Parliament and State Assemblies Vipul Anekant more women candidates. The Congress’s performance was much sumit.b@thehindu.co.in not been resolutely calling for
may be the best route for is Deputy voters, too, did not seem keen on better when it fielded male the SCS as both Chandrababu

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increasing women’s Commissioner of electing women candidates, either candidates against the BJP’s hile delivering the Naidu and Pawan Kalyan, the
representation in politics seems to Police with Delhi from the BJP or from Congress, women candidates, despite the inaugural address leaders of the two parties,
have come to an end. The Police. Views are even after the Women’s overall mood of the voters being in of the State’s Inte- respectively, have been seek-
Assembly elections in Rajasthan personal and not that Reservation Bill was passed with favour of the BJP. rim Budget, Andhra Pradesh ing an alliance with the BJP to
showed that the only way for of the government so much fanfare. Not giving more Similarly, the BJP fielded male Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mo- fight the 2024 elections to-
increasing women’s political women ticket to contest elections candidates against the female han Reddy made a statement gether against the YSRCP. The
participation seems to be to clearly shows that parties are not candidates of the Congress in 21 that is being seen by many as YSRCP is not part of the NDA, JSP is already an ally of the
provide them reservation in enthusiastic about fielding women Assembly constituencies. Of these, a veiled attack against the it has more or less served as a BJP in Andhra Pradesh.
Parliament and State Assemblies. candidates. And the votes polled the male candidates of the BJP Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)- loyal ally. But the heat is picking from
In the elections, the women by the women candidates, won in 15 Assembly seats and the led government at the Centre. There are many examples the Congress, which is in a re-
candidates of both the Congress irrespective of the parties they female candidates of the Congress For the first time since he of the YSRCP’s support of the surgent mood in Andhra, es-
and the Bharatiya Janata Party Sanjay Kumar belong to, also indicates the won in only six. Female became Chief Minister, Mr. Central government’s moves. pecially after Mr. Reddy’s sis-
(BJP) put up dismal performances. voters’ low enthusiasm for voting candidates of both parties had a Reddy has made a statement Last year, the party voted ter, Y.S. Sharmila, was made
is a Professor at for women candidates. relatively low strike rate if they that hints at the apathy of the against the ‘No Confidence’ president of the Andhra Pra-
The case of Rajasthan Centre for the Study There were seven Assembly had to face male candidates of the Union government in giving motion moved by the Con- desh Congress Committee
of Developing
In the Rajasthan Assembly constituencies where the women other party. This also proves the Special Category Status (SCS) gress and the Bharat Rashtra earlier this year. Ms. Sharmila
Societies. Views are
elections, everyone highlighted personal
candidates of the Congress and existence of a vote bloc which to Andhra Pradesh. He said Samithi. It also supported the has demanded that the go-
and criticised the ticket the BJP were pitched against each wants to see a man as their that he wishes that no party Government of National Capi- vernment hold a discussion in
distribution to women by all other. Since these two parties representative. This is why there is comes to power with an abso- tal Territory of Delhi (Amend- the floor of the Assembly on
political parties. But how did the were in serious contest, one would lack of winnability of women lute majority in the upcoming ment) Bill, 2023. While 19 Op- the “betrayal of the people of
women who contested perform? have expected the voters to candidates. And this forces parties Lok Sabha elections, as this position parties boycotted the Andhra Pradesh by the BJP
fa8594f7-e33f-4dc3-897d-da9948c836ac

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Rajasthan has 200 Assembly seats choose one of these two women to think twice before giving tickets leaves the State with little bar- inauguration of the new Par- government at the Centre in
but polling was held in 199 seats candidates. Of the seven Assembly to women candidates, especially gaining power. “A Central go- liament building, YSRCP MPs the last 10 years” and pass a
following the death of Congress seats, the BJP and Congress won in a closely fought battle. vernment dependent on the attended the event. Earlier, resolution on the “rights of
candidate Gurmeet Singh Kooner. three each, while the Sadulpur State would have conceded to the regional party had also the people of Andhra Pra-
The BJP fielded 20 women seat was won by the Bahujan No contagion effect our demands,” he said. Mr. supported the election of the desh” and send it to the
candidates of which nine managed Samaj Party. It is important to Distributing more tickets to Reddy added that Andhra President and Vice President Centre and the President for
to enter the Assembly. The success note that in these seven Assembly women in the first-past-the-post would have tried to secure the controversial Citizenship their approval. She also urged
rate of women candidates of the constituencies, the BJP polled 34% system may not necessarily lead to the SCS through all possible (Amendment) Act, 2019, the her brother and Mr. Naidu to
BJP remained 45%, which was of the votes compared to its more representation of women in means, including by ap- National Register of Citizens, wage a united war for secur-
much lower than the success rate overall 42% vote share, though the legislature. There is hope of a proaching the court, had the the three farm laws that were ing the SCS.
of the party’s male candidates — Congress polled almost similar contagion effect, but this has not assurance of SCS been incor- later withdrawn by the go- Mr. Reddy’s comments on
60% (106 male candidates won out votes in these constituencies as happened. The Trinamool porated in the Andhra Pra- vernment, and the dilution of the SCS also come at a time
of the 179 who contested). well in the whole of Rajasthan. Congress gave ticket to 46 women desh Reorganisation Act. Article 370. when Mr. Naidu, who had
The picture with regard to the This shows that voters seem to candidates in the 2021 West This is an unusually aggres- All through this, while it is been trying to warm up to the
Congress’s candidates was not prefer male candidates to female Bengal Assembly elections of sive posture by the Chief Mi- true that the party has been BJP, was once again called by
very different. Of the total 28 candidates. In the Sadulpur which 32 candidates won. But the nister against Prime Minister dissatisfied with the Central Mr. Shah to New Delhi. It ap-
women candidates of the Assembly seat, the BSP candidate, total number of women MLAs did Narendra Modi’s government. government for not granting pears that the BJP and the
Congress, nine got elected to the Manoj Kumar, polled 32.9% of the not increase in the Assembly. Though Mr. Reddy had made the SCS to Andhra Pradesh, it TDp are trying to rework the
Rajasthan Assembly (32%). The votes, the Congress candidate, Instead, it declined from 41 SCS one of his main poll has never been vociferous in alliance.
absolute number of women who Krishna Poonia, polled 31.6%, and women MLAs in 2016 to 40 in planks in 2019, he has been its demand. The Opposition With the possibility of a
were elected to the Rajasthan Providing a the BJP candidate, Sumitra 2021. soft-pedalling the issue since, recognised this and saw in the BJP-TDP-JSP alliance likely,
Assembly was the same for the BJP quota for Poonia, polled 30.1%. All this to Similarly, the Congress awarded as his YSR Congress Party has situation an opportunity to and with Ms. Sharmila resolv-
and the Congress, though in women in some extent explains why political 40% of tickets to women always tried to maintain a attack Mr. Reddy. ing to continue fighting about
percentage terms, the success rate Parliament and parties may be reluctant to give candidates in the Uttar Pradesh good relationship with Prime Some political experts be- the issue of SCS, Mr. Reddy
was higher for the women State Assemblies tickets to women candidates and Assembly elections, but this did Minister Modi and Home Mi- lieve that Mr. Reddy’s com- appears to be compelled to
candidates of the BJP compared to why mandatory quota within the not lead to a higher representation nister Amit Shah. The YSRCP ments are “opportunistic” once again rely on this issue
seems to be the
those of the Congress. party may not be the way forward of women in the Assembly. In the has supported the National since the dates of the general to evoke sentiments and se-
It is important to note that in only way to for increasing women’s first-past-the-post system, if one Democratic Alliance both and Assembly elections will cure votes. This is an ap-
the current Rajasthan Assembly, increase their representation in politics. party provides a gender quota, it within and outside Parlia- be announced soon. They al- proach that worked not only
the total number of women MLAs political Let’s look at some other trends. does not incentivise other parties ment. Many Opposition lead- so believe that he was forced for him in 2019 but also Mr.
is 20 (nine each from the Congress representation There were 13 Assembly to follow suit. ers believe that though the into a corner as the Opposi- Naidu in 2014.

2023 saw the most prisoners on death row in nearly 2 decades FROM THE A RCHIVES

But the death sentences confirmed by High Courts in 2023 was the lowest since 2000
FIFTY YEARS AGO FEBRUARY 12, 1974

DATA POINT
death penalty cases confirmed Kerala Assembly’s concern
each year by the Supreme Court.
As has been the trend in the re- over Shiv Sena harassment
Rebecca Rose Varghese cent past, the majority of death pe-
nalty cases in trial courts in 2023 Trivandrum, Feb. 11: The Kerala Assembly to-day

I
n 2023, the High Courts con- involved crimes related to sexual unanimously adopted an official resolution
firmed the death sentences of offences. Of the 120 death sentenc- voicing “grave anxiety over the continued
1% of prisoners whose cases es imposed by trial courts in 2023, harassment of and assaults on South Indians and
were up for decision. This is the more than 50% were for crimes in- especially Keralites in Bombay by Shiv Sainiks”.
lowest confirmation rate by the ap- volving homicidal rapes. Notably, It further called upon the Government of India
pellate courts since 2000. The the trial courts imposed death sen- “to intervene urgently to protect the lives,
lone confirmation came in the Kar- tences in 87% of cases in the ab- properties and right to work of the minorities in
nataka High Court in a murder sence of any information relating the city of Bombay.” The resolution was moved
simpliciter case. If the dominant to the accused. This is despite the by the Chief Minister, Mr. C. Achutha Menon. In
intention of the act was to kill a Supreme Court’s mandate in Ma- his reply to the four-hour debate, the Chief
person, it is ‘murder simpliciter’; noj v. State of Madhya Pradesh Minister said the Maharashtra Government
otherwise, it is categorised as an (2022), which requires trial courts should give adequate compensation for loss of
accidental murder. These were to proactively elicit material on the life and property suffered by Keralites in
some of the findings of the ‘Death mitigating circumstances of the ac- Bombay. He also promised to consider a
Penalty in India: Annual Statistics cused, including psychiatric eval- suggestion for sending a deputation of Kerala
2023’ report, which was released uations, while sentencing them in MLAs to the Prime Minister and the Maharashtra
by Project 39A, an advocacy group death penalty cases. Chief Minister. The Chief Minister said besides
with the National Law University, In 2023, the Supreme Court ac- the Prime Minister, he had also written to the
Delhi. quitted six death row prisoners in Kerala MPs to bring the issue to the notice of the
The death sentences of 45% of five cases and remanded two cases Centre and that the Karnataka MPs too were said
prisoners were commuted. An involving two prisoners to the trial to be organising a move in this direction. Apart
equal share of prisoners were ac- courts while criticising the negli- from all this, he felt the solution lay with the
quitted. The remaining 6% were gence in investigation and trials. In Maharashtrians themselves who should organise
remanded to trial courts (Chart 1). one particularly grievous case, it themselves against the Shiv Sainiks. Deprecating
Notably, the rate of disposal of found, 28 years after his imprison- the Opposition criticism of the Congress on this
death penalty confirmation pro- ment, that the convict was a minor issue, the Chief Minister said this was not the
ceedings at the High Courts de- at the time of the offence. occasion or forum for it. He said he knew well
creased by around 15% in 2023. Highlighting potential changes this statement would be construed as a
Last year, 57 death penalty cases in criminal laws, the report also weakness on his part since the CPI and the
were disposed of compared to 68 noted their impact on the adminis- Congress were coalition partners here, but the
cases in 2022. This decline is attri- tration of the death penalty. In Au- situation demanded that all sections, including
buted to the high number of pri- gust 2023, Parliament passed the Congress, should join hands. If the approach
soners who are on death row in three new Bills to repeal existing was to exclude the Congress, he could not
the country. The report noted that criminal codes. These Bills re- subscribe to it.
with 120 death sentences being im- ceived the President’s assent on
posed by trial courts, there were December 25, 2023. The passing of
561 prisoners on death row by the the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023,
end of December 2023. This is the will increase the number of offenc- A HUNDRED YEARS AGO FEBRUARY 12, 1924
highest number in nearly two de- es punishable by death to 18 from
cades, and the second-highest 12 under the Indian Penal Code, Persian Parliament
since 2000, according to the Na- 1860.
tional Crime Record Bureau’s Pri- Citing the example of Ghana, Teheran, Feb. 11: The Crown Prince opened the
son Statistics Reports. Chart 2 where the Parliament passed a Bill Mejliss this afternoon with great pomp. The
shows the number of prisoners on in July 2023 to abolish the death Diplomatic Corps and distinguished persons had
death row as on December 31 each penalty for ordinary crimes, and been invited. Seventy-two members were
year. The number of prisoners on countries such as Malaysia and Ke- present, but sixty-six had not yet arrived in
death row by the end of December nya, the report also discussed in- Teheran from the provinces. The Crown Prince
2023 had increased by over 40% ternational developments in death in a speech in the name of the Shah opening the
compared to 2016. penalty laws. According to the lat- fifth period of the Mejliss said that their foreign
Last year, the Supreme Court est data from Amnesty Interna- relations were very satisfactory and the
did not confirm any death sen- tional, China executed the most Government would continue to preserve order
tence, the second time since 2021. number of death row inmates in and peace which had been established all over
Chart 3 shows the number of 2022. (Chart 4). the country.
CM A ND-NDE
YK
Delhi www.thehindu.com Monday, February 12, 2024
● ●

Text&Context 0
NEWS IN NUMBERS
Amount disbursed by Sumit Nagal’s ATP Number of T20 100s Number of Indian Drones launched by
Saudi to Yemen ranking after winning scored by Glenn tourists who visited Russia over Ukraine
government Chennai Open Maxwell Türkiye in 2023 on Sunday

250 98 5 2.7 45
in $ million. Saudi India’s top singles player Following Glenn Maxwell’s unbeaten in lakh. There is an increasing Russia launched a
Arabia said on Sunday it Sumit Nagal on Sunday won 120-run knock against West Indies in popularity of Türkiye among five-and-a-half-hour drone
had disbursed this his fifth Challenger-level the second T20 International match Indian tourists with arrivals attack targeted at Ukraine’s
amount in aid to recognised government in singles title — an achievement which will in Adelaide, the star Australia batting growing by 17% in 2023 compared to last agricultural facilities and coastal
Yemen, which the Gulf kingdom has backed propel him into the top-100 for the first allrounder equalled Rohit Sharma’s record year. Türkiye offers e-visa, and in 2023, 75 infrastructure on Sunday. AP
in a war against Houthi rebels. AFP time in his career. PTI of the most Men’s T20I hundreds. PTI per cent of Indian tourists visited. PTI COMPILED BY THE HINDU DATA TEAM

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Decoding India’s economic realities


Is the GDP growth rate an accurate reflection of India’s economic health, considering the IMF’s concerns? Has there been an economic turnaround as claimed by the Finance Ministry in
fa8594f7-e33f-4dc3-897d-da9948c836ac

fa8594f7-e33f-4dc3-897d-da9948c836ac
the ‘White Paper’ in the past ten years compared to the situation under the NDA’s predecessor? What were the contrasts in the economy between the NDA and the UPA regimes?

ECONOMIC NOTES while outlays on education, defence and Growth and inflation
subsidies on fuel and fertilizer fell, as per Official data on the real economy under
cent of GDP. Health expenditure as a the NDA regime has been criticised from
Prasenjit Bose
share of GDP saw no change at all several quarters for overestimating its
Indranil Chowdhury
between the UPA and NDA rule, despite own macroeconomic performance and
Soumyadeep Biswas
the pandemic. undervaluing that of the UPA regime.
Samiran Sengupta
On the revenue front, gross tax Even then, the simple truth which is
revenues in GDP showed minor evident from the official data is that on

W
ith the BJP-led improvement during the NDA rule average, real GDP growth was at least one
government exuding compared to UPA’s, but non-tax revenues percentage point higher during the UPA
over-confidence on the deteriorated. Overall there was a decline decade than that of the NDA (See Table 2).
state of the economy, the in the Centre’s revenue receipts as a share Not only did the deep slump following the
interim Budget presented earlier this of GDP, partly due to the increase in the pandemic and lockdown cause major
month has shifted focus to fiscal State’s share in Central taxes following the disruption during NDA-II, but slowdown
consolidation. Finance Minister Nirmala implementation of the 14th Finance in the economy was already evident
Sitharaman has projected that the fiscal Commission recommendations. under NDA-I after the successive policy
deficit; which was expanded to 9.2% of NDA’s revenue mobilisation strategy shocks of demonetisation and GST
GDP in 2020-21 to deal with the revolved around increasing indirect tax rollout. The UPA era had also witnessed
pandemic-induced recession; would be collections on one hand, through GST the global financial crisis and consequent
brought down to 5.8% by the end of the rollout and levying high excise duties on worldwide recession in 2008-09, which
current financial year and 5.1% by next petro-products and expanding the was also a major external shock.
year to reach the targeted 4.5% of GDP by income tax base on the other. Central Gross value added (GVA) growth in
2025-26. Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) data show basic prices also reflect the same trend as
The interim Budget signals significant that the number of individual income real GDP, with the average growth rate
cutbacks in public expenditures, slashing taxpayers with positive tax payments first rising during UPA I, then falling
effective capital expenditure by ₹1 lakh increased from 1.25 crore in 2012-13 during UPA II, rising again in the NDA I
crore and reducing welfare and subsidy (assessment year) to 2.08 crore in 2021-22 period and then falling sharply during
allocations. Despite a nominal GDP (assessment year). The average tax paid NDA II. Most importantly, the ten years of
growth of 9%, down from the previous per individual income taxpayer more NDA rule could not provide any break
year’s 10.5%, the government faces than doubled from ₹91,200 to ₹2.03 lakh with the sectoral pattern of growth
challenges with a slowdown in economic in 2021-22. This raised income tax witnessed during the UPA era.
activity. Real GDP growth stands at 7.3%, revenues from the UPA years’ annual Agricultural growth remained way below
above last year’s 7.2%, while the IMF average of around 2% of GDP to 2.3% the overall GVA growth rate, with its share
questions the accuracy of official growth under NDA-I and 2.9% during NDA-II. in overall GVA falling continuously. With
estimates, recommending statistical In sharp contrast, however, corporate the share of manufacturing and industrial
upgrades. The fiscal situation is tax collections fell as a share of GDP, from sectors remaining largely the same under
complicated by rising debt liabilities, the UPA era average of 3.5% of GDP to UPA and NDA periods, the services
marking a formal withdrawal of 3.3% under NDA-I and further to 2.8% sector’s share in GVA increased from
post-pandemic stimulus in the interim under NDA-II. Aggregate income tax below 48% in 2008-09 to over 54% in
Budget. collections are projected to surpass GDP. The Make in India initiative
Added to this is the prospect of a corporate tax collections by over ₹1.13 launched by the NDA, to transform India
slowdown in economic activity, regarding lakh crore in 2024-25. into a “global manufacturing hub”, could
which the government seems to be in CBDT data show the number of not succeed in altering the services-led
denial. Despite the nominal GDP growth companies paying positive taxes rising growth trajectory.
rate falling to 9% in the current year from from 3.45 lakh in 2012-13 (assessment Real investment and export growth
16% last year, real GDP growth (at year) to 4.57 lakh in 2021-22 (assessment was significantly higher during the UPA
constant prices) has been estimated at year). Yet, data from the “Statement on decade than the NDA’s, which explains
7.3% (advanced estimates), slightly above Revenue Impact of Tax Incentives under the cause of higher real GDP growth
the 7.2% registered last year, implying that the Central Tax System”, annexed with during the former regime, despite being
the value of the GDP deflator — which the Receipt Budgets, show that the interrupted by a global recession. Private
should correspond with the retail effective corporate tax rate, which investment (GFCF) as a share of nominal
inflation rate — has fallen below 2% in inclusive of the dividend distribution tax GDP during the UPA decade remained
2023-24. Official data, on the other hand, had risen from 24.2% in 2012-13 to 30.4% significantly higher than the later period.
shows the monthly average of consumer in 2018-19, had fallen sharply to 22.2% in In contrast, growth during NDA-I was
price inflation (Consumer price 2020-21. private consumption led. During NDA-II’s
index-CPI-combined) at 5.5% for 2023-24. The withdrawal of the dividend tenure, even real private consumption
This anomaly has once again revived distribution tax and sharp reduction in growth fell significantly, making economic
the debate over the accuracy of official the corporate tax rate through the new growth largely dependent on the fiscal
growth estimates. The International tax regime introduced in 2019-20, have stimulus. This is clearly borne out by the
Monetary Fund (IMF), in its latest staff led to massive revenue losses under the rising fiscal deficit and debt-GDP ratio
report on India (November 2023) has NDA-II government, whose estimates the under NDA-II.
pointed out several defects and government has suppressed till date. Such UPA’s growth record, although higher
deficiencies in real sector data, a revenue mobilisation strategy, while than NDA’s in magnitude, had three major
particularly that of national accounts, transferring income from the poor problem areas, which the Finance
employment, and prices, recommending (through enhanced indirect taxes) and Ministry’s “White Paper” has highlighted.
an upgradation and expansion of official middle classes (through income taxes) to What is missing though is an honest
statistics. It is noteworthy that in its the profit-making corporate sector, appraisal of how far the NDA regime has
January 2024 Update of World Economic besides exacerbating income inequality, been able to address and resolve them.
Outlook, the IMF has projected India’s has also failed to generate adequate The most problematic aspect of UPA
real GDP growth as 6.7% for 2023-24 and revenues at a time when public era’s growth process was the high
6.5% for 2024-25, reflecting a deceleration expenditure was being enhanced under inflation that accompanied it, particularly
of economic activity. NDA-II, following the onset of the the double digit food inflation (Table 2).
pandemic and recession. The new series of CPI data reflect a sharp
Budget and Public Finance As a result, the revenue deficit has decline in the overall consumer inflation
The Finance Minister has sought to divert eventually bloated to an average of 4.3% rate by the end of NDA-I’s tenure to 3.4%,
attention from this debate over the of GDP under NDA-II and the fiscal deficit but a resumption of the inflationary trend
present direction of change in economic averaging at 6.6%, raising the central under NDA-II, averaging around 6%
activity, by presenting a “White Paper” in government’s debt from 52% of GDP at annually. As was the case with the UPA
Parliament on the past twenty years. The the end of UPA rule and around 50% regime, NDA too has relied upon the
white paper alleges that the United under NDA-I to the current level of 58%. Reserve Bank of India to try and control
Progressive Alliance (UPA) had left behind Annual interest expenditure has also risen inflation by raising its policy interest rate
a “deeply damaged economy” marred by from the low of 3.0% earlier to 3.6% of and managing liquidity.
“governance, economic and fiscal crises” GDP in the current period, which the Despite the repo rate being hiked from
in 2014, which is claimed to have “turned government is now trying to reckon with, 4% in mid-2020 to 6.5% in February last
around” and “rebuilt” from its by slashing capex, subsidies and welfare year, where it has been held till date, the
foundations in the past 10 years by the expenditure in the interim Budget. headline inflation rate has stubbornly
National Democratic Alliance (NDA) It is also noteworthy, that despite the ranged between 5-7% in the past two
regime. The evidence presented in enhanced level of resources transferred to years, with average food inflation crossing
support of this macroeconomic narrative, while NDA-II increased spending capex, subsidies, defence, education and the States in the past 10 years, combined 7% in 2023-24. This demonstrates, as it
however, is a concoction of cherry-picked significantly post-pandemic. NDA-II’s rural development. NDA-II increased the debt of the State governments have grown did during the UPA era, that RBI’s repo
data, half-truths, evasions, and expenditure record is mixed compared to outlays on those heads significantly faster than that of the Centre under the rate adjustments have very little influence
counter-factual assertions. UPA, with improvements in certain areas vis-a-vis NDA-I. However, the expenditure NDA rule than the UPA era. This on food price movements in India.
Over the past 20 years, fiscal trends but declines in others. The NDA-I record of the NDA-II government vis-a-vis underlines the inadequacy of current
show no clear pattern between UPA and government had reduced expenditures the UPA era remains mixed; outlays on level of fiscal transfers to the States, given This is the first of a two-part series on
NDA regimes (See Table 1). NDA-I reduced relative to GDP on most major heads capex, food subsidy, agriculture, and their expanding expenditure the Union Budgets under UPA & NDA
expenditures as a percentage of GDP, compared to the UPA regime, including urban and rural development improved, commitments. regimes
CM A ND-NDE
YK
THE HINDU
Monday, February 12, 2024 9
Delhi
Text&Context

Behind the numbers: Delhi’s


youth ahead of 2024 elections
This Lokniti-CSDS survey among first-time voters in Delhi explores their political engagement and opinions on critical issues; the BJP leads with 70%
KNOW YOUR ENGLISH
support for national governance with 48% expressing strong liking for PM Modi, while AAP gains preference at 49% in Delhi’s State-level governance

Lokniti team
Sparrows
A
s India prepares for the next
general elections, a lot of
discussions revolve around the
participation of first-time
have all but
voters in what is referred to as the ‘festival
of democracy’. The Election Commission
of India (ECI) is actively promoting voter
disappeared
registration, with the introduction of four
registration windows in a year. Several It can be used to mean almost or
States have already signaled an increased
number of first-time voters compared to almost completely
the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, reflecting a
growing engagement of the youth in the
democratic process. S. Upendran
Recognising the crucial role these
voters play, political parties are actively Why do we say ‘buttonhole someone’? (K
making efforts to connect with first time Vaidyanathan, Chennai)
voters. On National Voters’ Day, observed This is an expression frequently used
fa8594f7-e33f-4dc3-897d-da9948c836ac

fa8594f7-e33f-4dc3-897d-da9948c836ac
on January 25th, Prime Minister Narendra in informal contexts. When you
Modi, during the ‘Nav Matdata ‘buttonhole someone’, what you are
Sammelan,’ urged first-time voters to doing is preventing the person from
ensure their registration in the voters list. leaving; you catch hold of the individual
He also asked them to suggest inputs for and carry on a conversation with the very
the party’s 2024 manifesto. Similarly, reluctant listener. He is unable to escape
during his Bharat Jodo Yatra, Rahul from your clutches.
Gandhi engaged in exclusive interviews The students buttonholed the
with YouTubers as a move to reach out to Vice-Chancellor after the meeting.
the youth. With the elections just around I was late getting home because Sneha
the corner, political parties are reaching Time to choose: More than half (51%) of first-time voters in Delhi are yet to register themselves. FILE PHOTO buttonholed me about the project.
out to millions of first-time voters, The expression seems to suggest that
recognising the importance of their expressed a high likelihood of voting, the speaker is preventing the listener
support and participation. stating they are either very likely or from leaving by holding on to his garment
A recent study by Lokniti-CSDS somewhat likely to do so. Conversely, — perhaps, he has put a finger into the
interviewed 1,290 first-time voters (47% about one in 10 voters indicated a lower listener’s shirt/coat buttonhole, thus
young men and 53% young women) in likelihood or complete unwillingness to preventing him from escaping. According
Delhi, hoping to understand their vote. Additionally, two in 10 respondents to some scholars, the original expression
perspectives on politics, their voting mentioned that they would vote if they was ‘to buttonhold someone’. The
intentions, and their opinions on pressing managed to register themselves by the speaker prevented the person from
issues. time of the elections. departing by holding on to the shirt/coat
button. When ‘buttonhold’ is said quickly,
Apathy or Enthusiasm Narendra Modi’s appeal the final ‘d’ is seldom heard — as a result,
When it comes to the level of interest in PM Modi appears to have considerable over a period of time, ‘buttonhold’
politics among first-time voters, we asked support among first-time voters. When a became ‘buttonhole’.
them whether young individuals like question tapped their sentiments towards How is the word ‘insouciant’
themselves should be concerned about Mr. Modi, nearly half of the first-time pronounced? (N Krishna, Bengaluru)
the country’s affairs, or if it’s a matter voters (48%) expressed a strong liking for This rather formal word consists of
primarily for the older generations. Nine him, with one-third indicating a moderate four syllables. The first is pronounced like
of every ten (91%) first-time voters level of liking (33%). A little over one in the word ‘in’, and the ‘ou’ in the second,
expressed the view that they should ten had limited liking, and 8% expressed a sounds like the ‘oo’ in ‘cool’, ‘pool’ and
indeed stay informed about these strong negative rating (Table 4). ‘fool’. The ‘ci’ is like the ‘si’ in ‘sit’, ‘sip’
matters. Six per cent indicated a strong Digging deeper into the reasons behind and ‘sin’, and the following ‘a’ sounds like
inclination to follow but admitted their liking, his oratory skills and India’s the ‘a’ in ‘china’. The word is pronounced
difficulty in understanding, while a mere international image under his leadership ‘in-SUU-si-ent’ with the stress on the
2% believed that such concerns were stood out — mentioned by two in every 10 second syllable. This French word literally
better left to the seniors. youths. For close to two of every 10 (17%), means ‘not caring’: ‘in’ (not), ‘souciant’
When directly asked about their level it was his charisma, and one in every 10 (caring). If a person has a reputation of
of interest in politics, one-third (36%) of (11%) identified his decisiveness as the being ‘insouciant’, what it suggests is that
the first-time voters expressed a most likable trait. Additionally, close to the individual is rather carefree; he
substantial interest, while four of every one in every 10 (8%) youth appreciated remains unperturbed by the things
ten (43%) indicated a moderate level of his hard work, while another one in every happening around him – he stays calm.
interest. Only two in ten first-time voters 10 (7%) highlighted his policies (Table 5). When Jai was informed that he was
conveyed either minimal interest or no Beyond mere liking, a significant four in likely to be fired, he gave an insouciant
interest at all in politics. This indicated a 10 young voters believe that no one from shrug.
visible inclination towards political the Opposition parties can pose a What is the difference between
engagement among this demographic challenge to Mr. Modi in the upcoming ‘underemployed’ and ‘unemployed’?
(Table 1). When it comes to engaging in Lok Sabha elections (Table 6). Roughly an (Mangalam, Trichy)
political discussions, over six of every ten equal proportion mentioned Mr. Rahul ‘Unemployed’ is the opposite of
(60%) of the youngsters expressed that Gandhi and Arvind Kejriwal (17% and 16%, ‘employed’; a person who is
they actively participate in conversations respectively). All other leaders received ‘unemployed’ has no job, and is in search
about politics with friends and family. minimal mentions. Fifteen percent found of one. There are many unemployed
This indicated a substantive level of it difficult to give a name. people in our country. ‘Underemployed’
engagement about politics among the This sentiment not only strengthens suggests that the individual has a job, but
youth, demonstrating their heightened Mr. Modi’s political standing but also it is not very demanding or challenging —
interest and connection to political (Table 2). The trend persists as we look at every ten (11%) were unsure of whether highlights the formidable task facing it is one that does not use the skillset of
developments. However, do young those aged 19 years, with over half (56%) their registration had been accepted. Opposition parties in presenting the individual to the fullest.
people’s interest in politics translate into failing to register. However, there’s a One-sixth (16%) gave a range of other convincing alternatives capable of Vignesh prefers to be unemployed
action, such as registering to vote and gradual decrease in this proportion of reasons — facing registration obstacles resonating with a significant portion of rather than underemployed.
voting in the upcoming Lok Sabha those non – registered for subsequent age due to a lack of required documents, lack first-time voters. Anuradha was underemployed and was
elections? groups. of interest in voting, lack of knowledge A Study by Lokniti: CSDS Research Team very unhappy with her job.
More than half (51%) of first-time voters While half the unregistered individuals about the registration process, and which includes — Vibha Attri, Sanjay What is the meaning of ‘all but’? (B
in Delhi are yet to register themselves. (51%) plan to register for the upcoming applications were rejected (Table 3). Kumar, Suhas Palshikar, Sandeep Shastri, Vikram, Hissar)
Upon closer examination, a notable trend elections, the rest cite various reasons for When questioned about their Jyoti Mishra and Abhinav Pankaj Borbora The expression has several different
surfaces. Among the 18-year-olds, a not doing so. Among these, two of every inclination to participate in the 2024 Lok This is the first of a two-part series on meanings. It can be used to mean ‘almost’
striking three-quarters are yet to register ten (19%) cite the lack of time and one of Sabha elections, nearly seven in 10 voters the first time Voters’ in Delhi or ‘almost completely’.
In many cities in our country, sparrows
have all but disappeared.
According to the media, the result of
Please send in your answers to
THE DAILY QUIZ dailyquiz@thehindu.co.in
the upcoming election is all but certain.
The expression can also be used to
mean ‘except for’.
With five awardees in this year, here is a quiz on India’s highest civilian award, the My manager rejected all but one of my
suggestions.
Bharat Ratna upendrankye@gmail.com
Questions and Answers to the previous day’s
V. V. Ramanan daily quiz: 1. On February 9, 1959, the world’s first
intercontinental ballistic missile entered service for
X the Soviet Union. The missile part of it was called
QUESTION 1 R-7. What was its launcher called? Ans: Semyorka
Name the three recipients of the Bharat Ratna when it was first awarded in 2. Identify the three countries that don’t have
1954. operational ICBMs and name two countries not on
X the list that do have them. Ans: Don’t have:
QUESTION 2 Australia, Japan, Saudi Arabia; have: Israel, the
What is the Bharat Ratna shaped like and what are the two images on the U.K.
obverse and reverse of the medallion? 3. Name the military doctrine that is the foundation
X of nuclear peace – the idea that if two nuclear
QUESTION 3 powers are armed with nuclear weapons and have
Who are the only two non-Indian citizens to have been honoured with the both first- and second-strike capabilities, they don’t
award? have an incentive to attack each other nor to disarm.
X Ans: Mutually assured destruction (MAD)
QUESTION 4 4. Name the 1972 treaty under which the U.S. and
Who was the third woman, after Indira Gandhi and Mother Teresa, to be given the Soviet Union agreed to not develop anymore
the Bharat Ratna albeit posthumously? new ICBMs after the treaty date. Ans: SALT I
X 5. What does MIRV stand for? Ans: Multiple
QUESTION 5 independently targetable reentry vehicle For feedback and suggestions for
Who are the two awardees who went on to become the President of India? Visual: Name this ICBM developed by North Korea, Text & Context, please write to
X X first successfully tested in March or November 2022. letters@thehindu.co.in
QUESTION 6 Visual Question: Name this oldest (non-posthumous) recipient Ans: Hwasong-17 with the subject ‘Text & Context’
As of February 11, 2024, who are the three living recipients of the award? of the award. THE HINDU ARCHIVES Early Birds: Parthi J. S | Masum Reja
CM A ND-NDE
YK
>
OPINION 9
STAY INFORMED THROUGH THE DAY @ WWW.BUSINESS-STANDARD.COM

VOLUME XXX NUMBER 257


NEW DELHI | MONDAY, 12 FEBRUARY 2024

Black and white Updating India’s rituals


India must build on improved macroeconomic stability Particularly economic ones most of their (managers’) time in these factories and

T
ILLUSTRATION: AJAY MOHANTY offices is spent on working to meet these standards
here is virtually no debate that the Indian economy was in a difficult spot
by 2013-14, the last year of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) govern- and creating several hundred pages of documents
declaring adherence to these standards, whereas very
ment, and things have improved since. Thus, the White Paper, presented
little focus is given to actually improving quality. It
by the Union government last week, has limited policy relevance. India’s is somewhat like the world of priests that all of us
problems were exposed when the US Federal Reserve, after years of quantitative Indians are familiar with: The certifications and man-
easing, hinted at reducing the pace of monetary easing in the summer of 2013. A uals are like the mantras, and the systems prescribed
significant widening of the fiscal deficit after the global financial crisis led to higher by these documents are considered sacred.
inflation and a current account deficit that was running close to 5 per cent of gross When it comes to the world of education in
domestic product (GDP) in 2012-13. Besides, in a bid to revive growth, banks were India, it is worth introspecting whether in our
encouraged to lend, often to unsustainable projects, which resulted in high levels of desire to make entry into our top institutions mer-
non-performing assets. Much of this has been recognised over the years. it-based, the emphasis we put on entrance exams
has gone too far. The reports we hear about events
Meanwhile, the government of the day was embroiled in several corruption
in Kota are an example of the overwhelming influ-
and other scandals. The Supreme Court, for instance, in 2012 cancelled 122 telecom
ence of tutorial colleges in all aspects of our edu-
licences. While the judgment is still debated, it did reflect the political and business cation system. Do the current entrance exams
environment of that time. Confronted by problems from all sides, a coalition gov- emphasise and celebrate rote learning? Does this
ernment couldn’t take tough decisions. It did try to control the damage through a culture of rote learning carry with it the danger of
change of the guard in the Ministry of Finance in 2012, but by then it was too late. converting learning and the application of learning
The US Federal Reserve’s hint of tapering bond purchases led to panic in global into a ritual?
financial markets — popularly known as the “taper tantrum” episode — and drove Perhaps the grandest ritual we go through in
India to a near currency crisis. Things began to stabilise after the leadership change India every year is not Diwali, Christmas, or New

“D
at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in September 2013. The RBI announced plans, on’t you agree that managers in India management types that I meet at business school Year, or Pongal for Tamilians or Onam for
stop doing any real hands-on work once conferences who, in their addresses to an audience Malayalees, but the periodic announcement of GDP,
among others, to shore up foreign exchange reserves, including through borrowing
they reach their late 30s and merely go of MBA students, keep emphasising the need to “del- or gross domestic product, which is supposed to be
from non-resident Indians, strengthening the monetary policy framework to address through the days enacting rituals of holding meet- egate” tasks and not try and do things themselves. an indicator of how well we Indians are faring in
inflation, and improving the recovery of loans. ings, chairing reviews and so on?” Here is a quote from the Harvard Business Review: our economic lives. It’s usually quite a spectacle
To its credit, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government prioritised I looked at my friend who had just asked me this “One of the most difficult transitions for leaders to with chest-thumping by whichever party is in power
the task of strengthening macroeconomic stability. Along with improving the fiscal question over lunch at a posh restaurant in BKC make is the shift from doing to leading… this means accompanied by shrieking statements challenging
position, it made two very important decisions. First, the adoption of flexible inflation Bombay. He had invited me, saying we must meet, shaping the thoughts and ideas of others… and see- the numbers by Opposition parties with all media
targeting sent a strong signal regarding policy commitment to price stability. Second, we haven’t met for a while”, etc. He ing your own priorities come to life (print, TV, online, etc) adding to the chorus. Eminent
the implementation of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) tilted the balance is the founder and chief executive through the inspired actions of oth- scholars like Joseph Stiglitz and Amartya Sen have
of power in favour of lenders. For the first time, promoters of even large firms faced officer of an IT services company ers.” In other words, becoming a pointed out how poor a measure of our citizens’
employing nearly 5,000 people and “manager” means stopping to do well-being the measure of GDP is. But that does not
the risk of losing control. The IBC, to be sure, remains a work in progress because it’s
we have known each other from the things yourself and participating stop the rituals: The press conferences, public
taking considerably longer to resolve bankruptcies. Nonetheless, it has improved time we started working. only through the ritual of shaping speeches, and social media assertions nowadays
credit culture and, along with substantial capital infusion in public-sector banks, While I was trying to digest his the thoughts of others. easily match the sound levels of Diwali, Onam,
helped address the twin balance sheet problem. The NDA government has imple- question and frame a correct-enough As is common nowadays, I posed Pongal, and other rituals.
mented various reforms to increase the ease of doing business. answer, he clearly noticed the puz- the question to my pal ChatGPT: Finally, is it perhaps true that as we wade further
Importantly, course correction by the RBI in terms of managing currency and zled look on my face and asked: “Did “What are rituals, and what purpose into the internet/digital age, the rituals of going to
foreign-exchange reserves also helped a great deal in strengthening macroeconomic you hear my question?” do they serve?” and here is the office every day, dressed formally, being in office
stability. Yet, despite undisputed improvement on the macroeconomic front over “Yes, I did,” I told him. “I was AJIT BALAKRISHNAN answer I got: “Rituals, encompassing 9-5 every day/five days a week are going to fade
the last decade, attaining higher sustainable growth will require sustained policy merely thinking through all my expe- symbolic actions and ceremonies, away? Will “work” for most people mean that work-
interventions. For instance, though largely because of the pandemic, India’s public riences with managers aged late 30s that I have play multifaceted roles in diverse contexts. Culturally, ing from home most of the time is slowly sliding
worked with over time and wondering whether that they define and reinforce social identity, providing in? Will the ritual of building impressive office
debt and general government deficit remain elevated. India has struggled to improve
is also the period when their parents start having a shared heritage and fostering a sense of belonging headquarters soon come to be regarded as a ritual
the tax-to-GDP ratio significantly and the implementation of the goods and services age-related health problems, their children are prob- across generations. Religiously, rituals connect indi- like that of building temples and churches and
tax — another big reform — also remains a work in progress. In sum, while it was ably struggling to make it to a top college and so on… viduals with higher powers, expressing devotion, mosques and not something necessary to run an
difficult to take tough decisions under the large UPA coalition, a politically stable these pressures may be the real reasons that distract seeking guidance, and marking spiritual milestones. efficient business?
NDA would have benefited from a more consultative approach. It would have helped this age group of managers and explain why they Emotionally, rituals offer a calming and grounding Maybe my friend who posed these difficult
in taking forward reforms in land acquisition and farm sector, for instance. start viewing work as a ritual.” effect, contributing to overall well-being by reducing questions to me over our lunch meeting was right.
Professional consultation on trade would have nudged policy against higher tariffs. “I don’t think these family pressures are the real anxiety and providing a sense of control.” There is a good case to research why 30-something
cause,” he said. “I believe it’s the age-old Indian That cleared a lot of things in my mind, but I still managers slide into a ritualistic life and which of
practice of stepping back from anything day- kept wondering whether many of the things we our ways of living and “managing” are just rituals

Army in control
to-day as soon as you achieve a basic sense of humans engage in every day are possibly rituals and and which are part of real work that benefits us all
financial comfort.” do not really matter. and society.
My mind was racing through the past two For example, many observers have pointed out
decades of my life. My friend was right about one that Indian factories and offices work hard at getting
Pakistan’s political chaos is likely to continue thing: I too can recall a large proportion of senior certifications such as ISO, Six Sigma, and so on, but
The writer (ajitb@rediffmail.com) is an
internet entrepreneur

P
akistan’s election has not ended the political chaos that has plagued the
country in recent years. With the powerful military establishment having
turned against Imran Khan, the cricketer-turned-politician whom it
installed as Prime Minister in a visibly unfair election in 2018, the other
parties — Nawaz Sharif’s Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and Bilawal Bhutto’s
Pakistan Peoples Party — were expected to emerge victorious in this poll. But instead,
How about a White Paper on Vision 2047?
independents associated with Mr Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, or PTI, managed

L
ate last week, the National Democratic Alliance beyond the capacity of the Union Government to Chidambaram replaced him. Mukherjee was a pillar
to gain a plurality of seats even amid widespread accusations of rigging. While these (NDA) finally came up with a White Paper on finance and sustain”. As the paper says, “during the of the Congress in every decade starting from the
accusations may be overstated, occasions when the vote count was delayed and PTI the Indian economy. It was not about the cur- GFC, India’s growth slowed to 3.1 per cent in FY09 but Emergency of 1975-77 to the “crisis” caused by the eco-
candidates excluded from the counting stations do suggest that this election was rent economic situation and a road map for the next recovered swiftly to 7.9 per cent in FY10… There was nomic mismanagement of 2009-12. Yet, stunningly, a
possibly even more unfair than the 2018 one that brought Mr Khan to power. five years but a frontal attack on the United no need for the continuation of the misguided stimulus decade after the evidence of such gross economic mis-
Nevertheless, the PTI-backed winners fell short of a simple majority, and the results Progressive Alliance (UPA) regime, which was in pow- beyond one year”. The result: For six consecutive years management, when the NDA returned to power for a
er from 2004 to 2014. A White Paper was an obvious between FY09 and FY14, the ratio of India’s gross fiscal second term, the Narendra Modi government awarded
as certified by Pakistan’s Election Commission suggest a coalition of the other parties
idea for a government wanting to distinguish itself deficit (GFD) to gross domestic product (GDP) was at the Bharat Ratna to Mukherjee in 2019.
and some independents might be able to create a government similar to the Shahbaz
in every way from the past, which is why I had repeat- least 4.5 per cent, rising to 5 per cent in three of the six
Sharif-led coalition, which ruled for just over a year after Mr Khan was pushed out edly suggested it in my columns during the early years. The revenue deficit rose more than four times A different White Paper
of office in April 2022. years of the NDA government. But from 1.07 per cent of GDP in FY08 to Under the NDA, inflation has been controlled, fiscal
The fears are that Pakistan might be in for a prolonged period of street protests, why a White Paper in 2024 on what 5.3 per cent in FY10. Market borrowing prudence has been maintained, and capital expen-
which would further prostrate that country’s struggling economy. The PTI has happened in 2004-14? Apparently shot up but the funds raised went into diture has risen dramatically. Infrastructure projects
planned nationwide protests and will challenge various results in court. The local because it “would have given a nega- unproductive use. Not surprisingly, that were proposed 60 years earlier have been com-
and national police have declared their intention to crack down, and Section 144 tive narrative and shaken the confi- from “FY10 to FY14, the average annu- pleted and new ones conceptualised and built. Hence,
has been imposed in the capital of Islamabad — where the PTI was stunned when dence of all, including investors”. al inflation rate was in double digits”. the need to dig up old economic corpses is baffling.
the PML-N appeared to win all the city seats on offer. Mr Khan’s party has been This is a bit rich since the NDA It is here that one would like to pause If the NDA is confident about its performance, why
government has missed no opportu- and ask: Who was responsible for this not have a White Paper to present a road map for the
joined in protests by the various Islamist parties from the Jamaat-e-Islami to the
nity to repeat the Paper’s key allega- gross economic mess? After all, the coming 10 years, much like the Chinese five-year
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam. These radical Islamists were largely wiped out in the election tions: That the two UPA terms were Indian economy was in the hands of plans? Eric Li, a China expert, says while the West
— though, ironically, in most cases their vote seems to have drifted to the PTI. The marked by corruption, high inflation, a “dream team” (in the hyperbolic thinks China is opaque, the big China picture is always
formation of a stable coalition will depend therefore less on the Islamists and more
on whether the military or the PML-N can prevail on a dozen or so independents to
poor capital expenditure and project
implementation, fiscal irresponsibil-
IRRATIONAL CHOICE words of a business paper) —
Manmohan Singh, P Chidambaram,
clear. One only has to read the five-year plans to know
exactly what is coming — which sectors, which indus-
join a coalition between the PML-N and PPP. The Karachi-based secular party, the ity, and policy paralysis. As the drum- DEBASHIS BASU Pranab Mukherjee, Montek Singh tries, and in which location. “If you look at the history
Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan, which represents the interests of Indian- beat of the 2024 general elections Ahluwalia (as deputy chairman of the of China’s five-year plans over the last several decades,
origin Muhajirs, may emerge kingmaker, having won 17 seats. grows louder, it obviously helps the NDA to consolidate Planning Commission), C Rangarajan (as chief of the 85-90 per cent of the plans get carried out as planned,”
What has been shown up, from the perspective of Indian policymakers, is surely all facts and figures that show the UPA (led by the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister), he says. This is what India needs now, instead of a
Congress) in a poor light. There is little one can say to and Raghuram Rajan (as chief economic adviser to politically motivated document on what happened
the sustained and structural democratic deficit in Pakistan. It is clear that while the
defend the UPA, since the facts presented may even the Ministry of Finance). about two decades ago. Since the Modi government
military is not able to manage results to perfection, it remains the only entity able to be understated (there aren’t many details about the In a cabinet form of decision-making, it is not easy has announced a dozen mega initiatives with actual
exert real power in Pakistan. Defiance of the general staff’s instructions can lead to rampant crony capitalism and widespread corruption to pinpoint blame when something goes wrong. Blame allocations and substantial progress on the ground,
dethronement and jail, and restoration through the ballot box is still a far-off dream. in public-sector banks), but the timing and motivation gets shared and is diluted. In this case, however, it is it would have been easy to put it all together in one
Mr Sharif and his party may well come to power now; they have always been far behind the Paper are clear. easy. The economy was in the able hands of old war- document, with specific targets and deadlines men-
more in favour of peace with India than other players. But, even so, it is clear that The highlight of the Paper is the economic mis- horse Pranab Mukherjee, who was powerful enough tioned. Since this White Paper ends with the statement
the civilian leaders in Pakistan will also be hamstrung when it comes to making big management of 2009-13. The UPA came back to power to chair 24 of the 39 Groups of Ministers (GoMs). He “Amrit Kaal has just begun and our destination is
decisions like neighbourhood policy. For New Delhi, which has always resisted in May 2009, when the world was reeling from the was finance minister from 2009 to 2012, the fateful India a developed nation by 2047”, it is only fair to
negotiating with the Pakistan army, this reinforcement of the army’s control will impact of the global financial crisis (GFC). India was period when mindless fiscal profligacy, crony capital- map how this would roll out.
not be considered welcome news. much less affected by the GFC than Europe, the US, ism, corruption, scams, inflation, and high interest
and even parts of Asia. Yet, the UPA government rates led the economy to a “fiscal precipice”, according The writer is editor of www.moneylife.in and a trustee of
launched a massive stimulus package that “was way to the White Paper. When things got out of hand, P the Moneylife Foundation; @Moneylifers

The mind is mightier than the algorithm only.” This is why so much of his book
revolves around questions of
language. Language allows us to
communicate and to understand one
vocabulary or repertoire of memorised
facts is no longer the competitive
advantage it once was. “Today’s scribes
and scholars can challenge themselves
understanding,” Tenen writes. To that end, he tells stories, starting words for it. American drivers now another. But it also allows for deception with more creative tasks,” he suggests.
But Descartes didn’t write with the 14th-century Arab scholar Ibn take its magic for granted. It has and misunderstanding. “Tasks that are tedious have been
“Mediations”; Tenen must have meant Khaldun, who chronicled the use of the been demystified. Text generators, whether in the form outsourced to the machines.”
“Meditations” — the missing “t” will slip prophecy wheel, and ending with a As for the current debates over AI, this of 21st-century chatbots or 14th-century Tenen also argues that we, as social
past any spell-checker program because chapter on the 20th-century Russian book tries to demystify those, too. Instead “letter magic,” have always faced the beings, have agency, if only we allow
both words are perfectly legitimate. (The mathematician Andrey Markov, whose of talking about AI as if it has a mind of its problem of “external validation,” Tenen ourselves to accept the responsibility that
BOOK REVIEW book’s index lists the title correctly.) This probability analysis of letter sequences in own, Tenen talks about the collaborative writes. “Procedurally generated text can comes with it. But the real danger comes
minuscule typo doesn’t have any bearing Pushkin’s Eugene Onegin constituted a work that went into building it. “We make grammatical sense, but might not “from our inability to hold technology
JENNIFER SZALAI on Tenen’s argument; if anything, it fundamental building block of generative employ a cognitive-linguistic shortcut by always make sense sense.” Take Noam makers responsible for their actions.”
bolsters the case he wants to make. AI. Tenen writes knowledgeably about condensing and Chomsky’s famous What if someone wanted to strap a jet

I
n Literary Theory for Robots, Dennis Machines are becoming stronger and the technological roadblocks that ascribing agency to LITERARY THEORY FOR example: engine to a car and see how it fared on the
Yi Tenen’s playful new book on smarter, but we still decide what is stymied earlier models of computer the technology itself,” ROBOTS: How “Colorless green streets of a crowded city? Tenen says the
artificial intelligence and how meaningful. A human wrote this book. learning, before “the brute force required he writes. “It’s easier Computers Learned to ideas sleep answer is obvious: “Don’t do that.”
computers learned to write, one of his And, despite the robots in the title, it is to process most everything published in to say, ‘The phone Read furiously.” Anyone Why “Don’t do that” can seem easy in
most potent examples arrives in the form meant for other humans to read. the English language” was so readily completes my Author: Dennis Yi would know that one realm but not another requires more
of a tiny mistake. Tenen, now a professor of English and available. He urges us to be alert. He also messages’ instead of Tenen this syntactically thinking, more precision, more scrutiny
Tenen draws links between modern- comparative literature at Columbia, used urges us not to panic. ‘The engineering Publisher: Norton flawless sentence is — all qualities that fall by the wayside
day chatbots, pulp-fiction plot to be a software engineer at Microsoft. He “Intelligence evolves on a spectrum, team behind the Pages: 158 nonsense. Tenen when we cower before AI, treating the
generators, old-fashioned dictionaries puts his disparate skill sets to use in a book ranging from ‘partial assistance’ to ‘full autocompletion tool Price: $22 keeps referring to technology like a singular god instead of a
and medieval prophecy wheels. Both the that is surprising, funny and resolutely automation’,” Tenen writes, offering the writing software the importance of multiplicity of machines built by a
utopians (the robots will save us!) and the unintimidating, even as he smuggles in example of an automatic transmission in based on the “lived experience” multiplicity of humans. Tenen leads by
doomsayers (the robots will destroy us!) big questions about art, intelligence, a car. Driving an automatic in the 1960s following dozen research papers because that describes our condition. example, bringing his human
have it wrong, he argues. There will technology and the future of labour. I must have been mind-blowing for people completes my messages.’” Tenen doesn’t deny that AI threatens intelligence to bear on artificial
always be an irreducibly human aspect to suspect that the book’s small size — it’s used to manual transmissions. An Our common metaphors for AI are much of what we call “knowledge work.” intelligence. By thinking through our
language and learning — a crucial core of under 160 pages — is part of the point. automatic worked by automating key therefore misleading. Tenen says we Nor does he deny that automating collective habits of thought, he offers a
meaning that emerges not just from People are not indefatigable machines, decisions, downshifting on hills and ought to be “suspicious of all metaphors something also devalues it. But he also meditation all his own.
syntax but from experience. Without it, relentlessly ingesting enormous volumes sending less power to the wheels in bad ascribing familiar human cognitive puts this another way: “Automation
you just get the chatter of parrots, who, on enormous subjects. Tenen has figured weather. It removed the option to stall or aspects to artificial intelligence. The reduces barriers of entry, increasing the The reviewer is the nonfiction book critic
“according to Descartes in his out how to present a web of complex ideas grind your gears. It was “artificially machine thinks, talks, explains, supply of goods for all.” Learning is for The Times.
‘Mediations,’ merely repeated without at human scale. intelligent,” even if nobody used those understands, writes, feels, etc., by analogy cheaper now, and so having a big ©2024 The New York Times News Service
14 NEW DELHI
MONDAY
FEBRUARY 12, 2024

Opinion

{ OUR TAKE }
E STA B L I S H E D I N 1 9 24
Making sense of the
Fiscal federalism Islamabad mandate
at a crossroads A govt with doubts
around its legitimacy
what happens now is less clear. The been a landslide in their favour but for
Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) the polling being rigged. There are
(PML-N) is now technically the single numerous reports of counts being
Centre should engage with southern makes it difficult to be largest party, followed by the Pakistan delayed and results not announced to
states’ concern over funds allocations People’s Party (PPP) and they may well enable outcomes to be distorted and PTI supporters marching in Peshawar. REUTERS
optimistic about Pakistan form a coalition government with the fixed. Yet, the results — even with their

P
rotests by governments of three southern states support of smaller parties and by leach- distortions — at their most general level Thirdly, the younger generation of military for long periods and the major
in the short term ing away some independents. It can rea- clearly vindicate the view that at the voters — and Pakistan has a prominent negative consequences that have
— Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu — have

W
hat precisely the sonably be expected that this will now grassroots there is a latent anti-military youth bulge — find Khan’s political style emerged from its highly securitised
brought to the fore the growing tensions in Pakistan election be the favoured option for the military sentiment and political success comes a contrast to the tired and time-worn approaches to a whole host of issues.
India’s fiscal federalism contract. These states results mean will as it will seek to consolidate its support- to those who successfully harvest it as slogans of his opponents. In the short-term, the picture is more
long be debated. ers in the face of this setback. Other per- Khan did this time. Sharif’s party and his Finally, these results do show how negative. The results mean another bout
are not the first to raise the issue of what they allege is That Imran Khan mutations and combinations are also own standing suffered because they had difficult it is getting for Pakistan’s mili- of coalition governments that require
growing discrimination by the Narendra Modi and his Pakistan possible depending on how the inde- moved away from their quarter-centu- tary to reorder Pakistan’s politics in the constant support of the military and
government in the disbursal of central funds to non- Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-backed candi- pendents will behave and the ry-long opposition to mili- way it wants. Perhaps it is easier to deal which otherwise have diminished credi-
dates who contested as independents extent of their loyalty to Khan tary position to being in con- with a few political leaders than with bility. Such governments are not unu-
BJP-ruled states. The facts of the case are more in would do so well has belied virtually all and the PTI. cert with it this time. large public constituencies with sual in Pakistan. Khan himself headed
shades of grey than black and white. pre-poll assessments. It should also At the provincial level, the Secondly, the view that charged-up electorates frustrated and such a government after the 2018 elec-
The share of states in the Centre’s gross tax revenues shock the complacency of analysts who results are a mixed bag. In Khan has nurtured a near agitated at the tailspin they see the coun- tion when the PML (N) was forced out.
posit linear outcomes based on simplis- Sindh, the PPP will form the cult-like following clearly has try in with its mounting economic, polit- The difference is that at that time the
has been lower than what the 15th Finance Commission tic principles that the Pakistan military government again as substance. The imprison- ical and security problems. It is a differ- PML (N) saw that the cards were
recommended in its formula. But this is on account of controls everything. expected. In Khyber Pakh- TCA ment and the convictions he ent matter whether Khan’s tenure as stacked against it and accepted the situ-
some of central taxes being out of the divisible pool on Notwithstanding all the pre-poll pres- tunkhwa, the independents Raghavan has faced have buttressed his PM made any real advance in address- ation. Khan and his charged-up support
sures on Khan — imprisonment, debar- backed by the PTI are pre- reputation. While other PMs, ing these issues. The point is he has suc- base are unlikely to do so now.
account of special cesses and duties. Also, overall ment from politics, convictions — and ponderant and can be including Sharif, have been cessfully used the downslide since his At the very least this means further
transfers from the Centre to the states — the data is on the PTI, as well as the numerous expected to form the government in treated as cavalierly in the past by the removal in April 2022 to create a strong prolonged instability in Pakistan with a
unambiguous on it — have increased rather than credible reports of actual rigging in some manner once it is decided how military as they have treated Khan this narrative of domestic and foreign con- heightened possibility of further and
many constituencies, the fact remains they will act together in the absence of a time, the fact is he has exhibited an spiracies targeting him so that Pakistan intensified civil-military conflicts. The
decreased over time including under the Modi that the overall results broadly reflect party to unite them. In Punjab, the pic- intensity of defiance that was qualita- could be controlled by vested interests. military remains, regardless of this
government. This is a result of the increase in transfers the sentiments on the ground. Whether ture is similar to, and as confused as, the tively new and that further burnished The military’s efforts to counter this result, a major decision-maker in Paki-
for other central grants such as centrally sponsored the election was free and fair now one at the national level. Here too some his reputation. While instances of dog- narrative evidently proved ineffective. stan. Yet the impact of this blow to its
appears less important than the fact that kind of coalition will have to be impro- ged but quiet resistance to military What of the future? At the concep- public credibility will be felt in numer-
schemes. it has delivered a generally credible out- vised. Perhaps the effort of the PML (N) inroads into civilian domains exist in tual level these results certainly assert ous ways. Most of all, given the myriad
Why are the states complaining then? The Centre’s come against all odds. will be to lure as many PTI-backed inde- Pakistan, examples of public and the strength of the political sphere in problems Pakistan confronts, a govern-
tightening of what in essence are political PTI-backed independents are clearly pendents as possible to its side. But the upfront defiance are much less com- Pakistan, and the capacity of its political ment without a clear mandate and with
the single largest bloc in the candidates moral victory rests with the PTI and mon. Khan’s behaviour after his dis- class and civil society to assert them- a question mark around its legitimacy
conditionalities on such transfers (in most cases they declared successful for the National what this means politically is that a cer- missal resembled, in many ways, the selves and to defend and expand their means in the short-term it is difficult to
involve mandatory attribution of these schemes to the Assembly. Perhaps, if Khan had not tain chronic instability can be predicted. public defiance of the then chief justice space even in opposition to the military. be optimistic about Pakistan.
Prime Minister) could be one such factor. The anger of been barred from contesting and his Khan and his supporters may well Iftikhar Chaudhury in 2007. The pro- Such assertion and expansion of the
party allowed to campaign, he would contest the results on the grounds that tests that then followed had meant the political sphere cannot but be a good TCA Raghavan is a former high commis-
the non-BJP state governments on this count is not very have easily been the leading contender even with all the pre-poll manipulations beginning of the end of the General thing for Pakistan in the medium- and sioner to Pakistan.
difficult to understand. to become prime minister again. But against them, the result would have Musharraf era. long-term given the dominance of the The views expressed are personal
What is troubling, however, is the fact that some
southern (and also richer) states are taking out this

Ramachandran was an
anger in a different direction and are beginning to
question the well-established principle of giving a { BENJAMIN NETANYAHU } ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER
bigger share of central taxes to poorer states even if a
P
bigger share is collected from the richer states. Such a
sentiment, if it is allowed to gain ground, can create
large-scale discord in India’s fiscal federalism
artist with an epic vision We’re going to do it (invade Rafah
framework. Whether or not it is justified – one can set of small but exquisite etchings were ures he cast in bronze do not extend themselves city). We’re going to do it while
always argue that the economic prowess of the richer
states is more a function of India’s overall economic and
political stability than a state-specific thing – is beside
A the first works of art I saw of A Rama- into space but impose an iconic presence with
chandran (1935–2024) way back in the their monumental solidity.
early eighties. In a group show of a few Further, his versatility in handling mediums
artists at the gallery of Kerala Kala Peetom in such as drawing, etching, painting, and sculp-
providing safe passage for the
civilian population so they can
the point. The more important task at hand is to ensure Kochi, those works invited me into the world of ture enabled him to play with the content and
leave.

A
Ramachandran. They were a set of prints based form of his works. Rajasthan, its village life, its
that such a feeling is not allowed to gain political on the short stories of Saadat Hasan Manto. people, the bright, myriad colours of the dresses
legitimacy. Those days, like some of Manto’s stories, the women wear, and its landscapes are the visual
Doing this will require a statesman-like approach works of Ramachandran gripped us due to their sources Ramachandran returned to for develop-
grotesque and morbid feel. Ramachandran was ing a language that speaks in epic dimensions.
rather than browbeating the proponents of such shouting all his anger and spitting fire as an art- Yes, that is the phrase one has to use to describe
demand by using a brute parliamentary majority. In ist who could not tolerate the languishing social Ramachandran’s works of art. His works are of
fact, the latter is more likely to alienate them further. life through his mural-scale canvases that pre- epic dimensions. It is only natural that he con- { STRAIGHTFORWARD }
dominantly featured faceless, wobbling, muscu- ceived his works on a mural scale because he
This will be one of the biggest challenges facing the lar human bodies. Reds, yellows, and browns had a lot to narrate as if he were a novelist in the Shashi Shekhar
newly constituted 16th Finance Commission. Politics dominated the pictorial space of the artist world of visual art.
must facilitate this process rather than obstruct it. because those are the colours evocative of the Whether his early works, such as Kali Puja
strongest effects of the human ordeal. However, (1972), End of the Yadavas (1973), or some of the
from such morbidity and grotesqueness, Rama- later period works titled Yayati (1982–86), The
chandran moved to the lyrical, tender, and Birth of Palash Tree (1993), or the Ritual Resur- In democracy, consensus
Bulldozer justice is smoothening pictorial language developed to rection (2013), their monumentality in execution,
delineate age-old Indian narratives and stories. seriousness of the theme, as well as his personal
While modern Indian art was interpretation of myths, elevate
essential to push agendas
politically fraught limping after various international
movements, Ramachandran has
not wavered. He remained true to
them to a grand vision. For such a
grand scheme of pictorial narra-
tion, he consciously assimilated the hree major developments from last week first. This has not been done till now, which is

T
he local administration has a lot to answer for
the violence that killed five in Haldwani in
Uttarakhand last week. Violence erupted after
authorities demolished a madrasa and mosque,
his strong convictions in his figure-
based paintings. While most of the
artists in India were struggling to
find their personal idioms in picto-
rial language, Ramachandran
M
figural and structural conventions
used by Michelangelo, Rembrandt,
Benode Behari Mukherji, and the
Ramachandran traditional muralists of Kerala.
The more one looks deep into the
T have the potential to affect how the
country moves forward. The first was
the adoption of a Uniform Civil Code
(UCC) in Uttarakhand, within three days of
which, Union home minister Amit Shah offered
why objections are being raised. In a democracy,
consensus is just as crucial as the desire to fulfil
one’s agenda.
Now we’ll look at the demands of southern
states. They are not alone in voicing concerns
stood firm on his ground, looking works of Ramachandran, the more a blueprint for pan-India adoption of the code. over their fair share of taxes. Many other states
allegedly built on government land. The ownership of directly at the people he was fasci- enchanting and intriguing they The second development was that of south have raised such demands. West Bengal CM
the land is disputed, and the high court is set to hear the nated with and delineating them according to a become. From the mythical beings, flora and Indian states approaching Delhi for a fair share Mamata Banerjee raised the same complaint
matter on February 14. The administration should have visual language that he forcefully inherited from fauna, costumes, ornaments, self-portraits, tools, of taxes. The third was Uttar Pradesh chief min- just a few days earlier. But how right are those
various mural traditions. and figures in various perspectives, birds, bees, ister (CM) Yogi Adityanath claiming rights over who make these demands? They are aware that
waited for the court to settle the matter instead of Literature was the premise on which Rama- dragonflies, monkeys, and various insects inva- the sacred sites of Mathura and Kashi. Amid taxes collected from the public do not go into
hurriedly carrying out the demolitions. chandran created his entire visual oeuvre, but riably appear on his canvases. Thus, the pictorial these developments, another development hit anyone’s pockets. The Centre requires finances
Last week’s incident did not take place in a vacuum his training in Carnatic music and art under his space becomes a networked arena of forms that the headlines: The Centre released a white paper to fulfil hundreds of essential tasks, including
teachers Benode Behari Mukherjee and Ram- take our eyes to every inch of the painted area. in Parliament on the so-called economic mis- defence, infrastructure development, and digiti-
and should not have caught the administration by kinker Baij at Shantiniketan miraculously Though at a later stage, he had done many paint- takes committed by the United Progressive Alli- sation. The entire country benefits from these
surprise. Uttarakhand has been restive for some time transformed his pictorial imagery into some- ings devoid of human figures, exploring the idea ance government. Before even the release of this services delivered by the Centre, rather than just
now. Last year, there were calls for the boycott and thing somewhat idiomatic and integrated. For of a lotus pond and embellishing the painted white paper, the Opposition issued a “black a state.
him, drawing was the forte with which he could surface in a decorative vein, he was primarily a paper” on the incumbent government’s deci- The question arises here whether the CMs of
expulsion of Muslims from Uttarkashi over an alleged easily move from miniaturist works to large- figurative painter. sions during its decade-long rule. the southern states are worried about the Prime
case of love jihad. A mass eviction from railway land in scale murals. In other words, the extraordinary The drawings of human beings, animals, and Obviously, we have reached the season of the Minister’s growing popularity and the Bharatiya
Haldwani following a high court order in 2022, had led range of Ramachandran’s art begins from nature and the realist renderings he tried are Lok Sabha elections, and many such develop- Janata Party’s campaign beyond the Vindhyas.
postal stamps to large-scale murals several academically correct, exposing the dexterity of ments can be expected. You may recall that Karnataka CM Siddarama-
to protests by the residents, mostly Muslims. The metres long. his hand and a keen eye for natural forms. But Coming back to the UCC, you may recall that iah raised the issue of Hindi versus Kannada at
current demolitions have coincided with the passage of However, over the years, the painter in him when he used them in his works of art, particu- when it was proposed during Prime Minister the end of his previous tenure.
the uniform civil code Bill (UCC) in the Uttarakhand listened to the sounds of the musician in him, larly paintings, with the use of brilliant and unu- Modi’s first term, it took the entire country by Now, let’s talk about Yogi Adityanath’s
and that allowed him to move away from geo- sual colour schemes, he transported the realistic storm. Along with it the national register of citi- demand. His cabinet colleagues had already
legislative assembly: The UCC is perceived by many as metrically designed compositions to organic, or naturalistic undercurrents of his drawings to zens (NRC) was also proposed. The minorities raised the demand, but the way Yogi put it in the
an instrument to target Muslims, who constitute 14% of swirling, and ornamental lines that decided the the level of fantasy. Yayati, his best-known paint- felt this was a means to ostracise them. A wave assembly on Wednesday was notable. He said
the state’s population. mood of his paintings. Slowly, blues and greens ing, for instance, with its bold and bright col- of protests followed, with some violent clashes the Pandavas had requested for five villages, and
started enriching his palette in place of his ear- ours, endured the ordinariness of the illustrative with police at several locations, in which 65 peo- we are asking for only three sites. Was he
Besides, demolitions by municipal authorities have lier loud yellows and reds. idiom the painter took recourse to. Here, Rama- ple were killed. reminding us of the dangers of refusing the
acquired a political colour, especially in BJP-ruled When he attempted sculpture, the visual lan- chandran’s shrewdness as a painter worked, as Long sit-ins were staged at Shaheen Bagh in request of the Pandavas? Yogi is regarded as a
states. The demolition of property by state agencies is guage became totally different. They acquired a he knew the colour scheme of his choice altered New Delhi and other parts of India, providing tough and capable CM. Uttar Pradesh shed its
stark, solid, iconic imagery despite the meticu- the mundane into the otherworldly. the western media with grist for their mills. But sick-state status under his leadership. The
now perceived by many as a symbol of administrative lous rendering of flora and other designs super- What is left behind by this artist par excel- Covid-19 quelled these agitations, and the gov- majority may be pleased with his statement, but
high-handedness and vindictiveness towards Muslims. imposed on them. His Gandhi sculpture is more lence, who was honoured with innumerable rec- ernment, too, decided it was best to put the NRC some may also be worried. The older generation
In Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, and most of a symbolic representation of Gandhi as a per- ognitions, is a huge legacy of art and scholarship, on hold, taking a cue from the failure of the Pra- would recall the 1980s, when a massive crowd
son than a portrait. The elongated human fig- which he inherited from his great teachers in fulla Kumar Mahanta government’s experiment had chanted “Ayodhya to bas jhhanki hai, Kashi-
recently, in Mira Road, Mumbai, the local Santiniketan and what he could impart to his in Assam in the 1980s with terrible results. Mathura baaki hai” (Ayodhya is just a glimpse,
administration was accused of sending in bulldozers as HE SINGLE-HANDEDLY students as a professor and professor emeritus But that doesn’t mean NRC has been aban- Mathura-Kashi will be next). Rashtriya Swayam-
at the Jamia Millia Islamia University, Delhi, as doned. Also, numerous states have shown an sevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat has stated
a response to suspected crises of law and order: Use of BROUGHT RAVI VARMA well as his writings on art and his in-depth interest in adopting the UCC. In Uttarakhand, an that we do not aim to initiate a new agitation
bulldozers to demolish property belonging to Muslims BACK AS AN ARTIST OF research into the mural tradition of Kerala. innovative method was employed to get the code after Ram Janmabhoomi, but if Yogi has raised
involved in protests had earned UP chief minister Yogi DISCOURSE POTENTIAL IN Moreover, he single-handedly brought Ravi implemented. Despite the National Law Com- this demand afresh, it should be taken seriously.
Varma back as an artist of discourse potential in mission’s refusal, Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Finally, coming to the white and black papers,
Adityanath the moniker of “bulldozer baba”. In this OUR TIMES WITH A LARGE our times with a large exhibition of his works Singh Dhami formed a committee chaired by such political dramas have occurred in the past
context, the administration needs to be careful how it EXHIBITION OF HIS WORKS and conducted a seminar on them at the former Supreme Court justice Ranjana Prakash too, particularly when elections are near. The
proceeds with municipal actions, however fair and AND HELD A SEMINAR ON National Museum, New Delhi, while he was Desai, which gave its provisions a legal basis. question here is whether the days of consensus
chairman of Kerala Lalitha Kala Academy. This will eventually happen in other states as in democracy have come to an end.
legitimate they may be, especially with general elections THEM AT THE NATIONAL well.
around the corner. And, no leniency shown to MUSEUM IN NEW DELHI M Ramachandran is an art critic. But it would be better if all the parties likely to Shashi Shekhar is editor-in-chief, Hindustan.
lawbreakers. The views expressed are personal be affected by the code are taken into confidence The views expressed are personal

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