June 25, Emergency Never Again.

 June 25, Emergency Never Again. Appeal to our Parliamentarians for Democratic Integrity and Constructive Governance

June 25 marks an aberration day in the history of our democracy, reminding us of the resilience and strength of the Indian democracy notwithstanding the onslaught that it faced on this day in 1975. Today, we enter the fiftieth year of the declaration of the Emergency in India. It was on this day in 1975, that India experienced one of its darkest hours in our cherished democracy, when the then then-prime minister, Mrs. Indira Gandhi, imposed an Emergency on the nation. As we reflect on this period, it becomes imperative to reassess and renew our commitment to the democratic values and principles of our nation and ensure that June 25, 1975, happens never again.

 Unfortunately, the happening unfolding - a saga of parliament disruptions and slogan shouting with the holy book of the constitution of India in the hands of the parliamentarians - even before the swearing-in of the newly elected members to the 18th Parliament is completed, does not augur well for the Indian democracy. What is so embarrassing is the very party that imposed the Emergency on this nation is unabashedly using slogans like the death of Democracy to instigate the ruling party, which would create a crevice unbridgeable between the ruling and the opposition parties, which does not augur well for Indian democracy.

 The 18th Parliamentary elections, the greatest of the global spectacle that heralded the democratic traditions of independent India, will soon be completed with the newly elected members of the Parliament completing their constitutional obligations of taking their oath and expressing their allegiance to the Constitution of India.  The acrimonious debate, allegations, and counter allegations, the exit polls and the heat and dust that they generated and so also a narrative of unsafe EVMs are all past. It is time for everyone to let bygones be bygones believe in the great Indian democracy and respect and uphold the will of the 640 million plus people who have endeared the scorching heat to go out and vote for the government they wish to govern them.

 The people of India have spoken their minds and whether one likes it or not, NDA has been given the mandate to govern the nation with vastly reduced numbers for the ruling party. The united opposition under an innovatively crafted acronym INDIA, which was led among others by Rahul Gandhi and his Congress party, has made impressive gains and Congress has just missed the three-figure mark while the INDIA block has managed to win a creditable 235 seats including a landmark victory in Ayodhya. This mandate by the people mandates the opposition – INDIA block - to play a responsible role of the opposition, which must be respected and played constructively.

 

In recent times, with Prime Minister Modi in power, there has been growing rhetoric, particularly from the opposition, suggesting that India under the current government led by Mr. Narendra Modi, is experiencing an "unwritten emergency." This narrative persists despite the clear mandate given by the electorate for the third consecutive term. The elections are over, the results are and it is now time for both the ruling party and the opposition to transition from campaign mode to governance mode, focusing on serving the people of India.

 The role of the opposition is crucial in a democracy. A healthy, functioning democracy relies on a responsible opposition that holds the government accountable while respecting the electorate's verdict. However, the current behaviour of boycotting sessions and creating disruptions even before the first session of the new government begins undermines this responsibility. This not only insults the mandate given by the people but also weakens the democratic fabric of our nation.

 Similarly, the ruling party must show magnanimity and respect towards the opposition. Effective governance requires collaboration and constructive dialogue. Ignoring or dismissing the opposition leads to a polarized political environment, hindering progress and innovation. This adversarial behaviour serves no good to the people of India and distracts from the real issues at hand. Today, India stands at a pivotal moment on the global stage. As a rising power with a promising future, any internal political discord can have far-reaching consequences. Disruptive behaviours by both the ruling and opposition parties can deter foreign investments and weaken global confidence in our stability and governance. This is a critical time for India to project unity and a commitment to democratic principles.

 As we mark the beginning of the fiftieth year of Emergency in India, I join my fellow countrymen (women included) to plead with both the ruling party and the opposition to make amends and prioritize the nation's welfare above partisan politics. It is time to end the rhetoric and work together for the greater good. The people of India deserve a government that respects their mandate, upholds democratic values, and works tirelessly for their prosperity and progress.

 As custodians of democracy, all politicians must honour the trust placed in them by the electorate and perform the responsibility they are vested with by the people of India, admirably so that the slogan for “Emergency Never Again” reverberates in the hearts and minds of everyone.  

 Let us learn from our past, respect the present mandate, and work towards a future that strengthens our democracy and promotes the well-being of all Indians. Unity, respect, and constructive engagement are the pillars that will support India’s journey to becoming a global leader.

 

The Great Indian Democracy : Judgment Day of the 18th Parliamentary Elections.

 

The 18th Parliamentary elections, the greatest of Global spectacle that herald the democratic traditions of independent India, are over and the vituperative debate, allegations and counter allegations and the so called exit polls and the heat and dust that they generated including making the coalition that was predicted to be a big timer loser becoming hyperactive to ridicule and rubbish the exit polls and have their own convictions of coming back to power by winning 295 seats are all now done and dusted and are past as we now headed towards the D day of counting 4 June, 2024, which will commence in 8 hours hours from now. It is time that everyone one of us let bygones be bygones and believe in the great Indian democracy and the will of the 640 million plus people who have endeared the scorching heat to go out and vote for the government they wish to govern them. 

Therefore, let us raise in attention to salute the Indian electorate and respect the people’s mandate when results are announced and not play politics and blame and tarnish the Election Commission and its paraphernalia that include the EVMs and the faceless hundreds of thousands of foot soldiers of the Election Commission who have tirelessly worked towards making this Himalayan task a grand success time after time and election after elections. Let us remind ourselves of the scorching heat during which the electioneering happened when the leaders and the people who went to listen to them endeared this heat and went out to exercise their franchise true to the great democratic traditions of our nation. Democracy in India has gained from strength to strength and has made much progress over the decades. When we attained independence and declared ourselves Republic in 1950, our erstwhile rulers, the British and the rest of the world, were highly cynical about our survival, let alone the survival of our democracy. From the first elections in 1951-52 to the current 18th  election in 2024, we have come a long way and our democracy has grown from strength and the world now treats Indian democracy as a triumphant role model, which is studied by many democratic countries. Let us cherish our democratic traditions and let us not demean the institutions which make this happen by making false and baseless allegations, which can serve as an ammunition to those who want India to fail.

Notwithstanding the naysayers and losers allegations regarding the so called rigging of EVMs, or such other blames, we the electorates must trust the Election Commission, and its unprecedented machinery comprising of tens hundreds of thousands of workers, who work as an the Institution to serve the nation incredibly for the success of our democracy. This is borne out from the recent Supreme Court Judgment that found no substance in the allegations levelled against the Election Commission. Speaking of the elections and the EC, I am reminded of the statement made by our former President, Dr Pranab Mukherjee, who had praised the Election Commission for conducting the 17th Lok Sabha polls in a “perfect” manner. He had gone on to say “If we want to strengthen institutions, we have to keep in mind that institutions are serving well in this country, and if democracy has succeeded, it’s largely due to the perfect conduct of elections by all Election Commissioners starting from Sukumar Sen to the present Election Commissioners”. So irrespective of who wins the 18th Parliamentary elections, the NDA as predicted by most exit polls, or the INDI Alliance, or the results throw out a hung parliament, we must all collectively respect the results as a true mandate of the people and not play politics over the results and blame the Election Commission (EC) or any other institutions and the EVMs. 

Ever since the era of TN Seshan, in the early 1990s, the EC, like the Indian Army, has arguably become our respected institution, barring a few aberrations. The respectability of the EC can further be appreciated when we realise that the EC has helped several other nations run their elections better. EVMs have played a significant role in this transition, which has seen a drastic reduction in voting malpractices. Therefore, all those who either blame the EC or the EVMs and demand a rollback to paper ballots, I strongly feel are grossly wrong. I do agree that the Murphy’s Law has its own standing and no technology is infallible and therefore credible allegations of EVM tampering or any other malpractices must be taken seriously and we must also appreciate that the EC does take all such allegations seriously and therefore believe in their conduct. Demand for rollback to ballot box or dumping the EVMs is like forcing us to go back to horse drawn carriages. Can any of us even imagine doing so. Despite the real risks of road accidents, we don’t abandon motor vehicles, do we? Instead, we implement safety measures like speed limits, seat belts and helmets and so should it be for the EVMs and introduction of the VVPAT is a step in that direction. 

Central to the beauty and vibrancy of the Indian democracy are the Indian electorates - the rich and mighty, the powerful and powerless, the poor and the insignificant, the lettered and unlettered, sheltered and unsheltered, the males, females and the transgender’s, the believers and non believers, Hindus, Muslims, Parsis, Sikhs, Christians, Jains, Buddhists, religious and non religious, young, middle aged, old and the very old - all standing as equals, each rubbing shoulders with one another, in the true spirit of equality and humanity first, who make our democracy thrive. They have all voted in scorching heat conditions and rightfully deserve to get the government that they have voted, so let there not be any politics over the results and let us not believe or encourage the losers who are likely to blame and shame the EVMs and the conduct of the Election Commission. Have we all not heard this idiom  “bad workman blames his tools”.

Incidentally, allegations of vote fraud through tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) is not new to the parties or the candidates or only to this election. This tradition began right from the very first instance of the use of EVMs, when the Election Commission tried out a pilot project of use of EVMs in Indian elections during the Kerala assembly elections way back in 1982. The case went right up to the Supreme Court, which in 1984 had ruled against the EVMs. However the ruling of the Supreme Court was based on the legal technicality, and not about the functionality or the fundamental suitability of the EVMs. This technical flaw was corrected by a 1988 amendment to the RoP Act, which provided  the legal framework for the use of EVMs in Indian elections. Ever since the EVMs have served us very well.

Let us earnestly hope that the will of the people, as expressed through their ballots, is known when the results are announced tomorrow there will be no more politicking on this issue. Let naysayers continue to crib, which the losers will, but let us all rejoice the Indian democracy that the world acclaims and accept the will of the people and let the party or coalition voted to power govern us and let us hold them accountable to their election manifesto.

Jai Hind and Jai Indian Democracy.

KKR Wins the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024.

The TATA IPL 2024, which featured as a Google Doodle yesterday, ended with a one-sided final match with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) defeating the Sunrisers Hyderabad SRH) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, by eight wickets in quick time to clinch the IPL 2024 title and be declared the Champions, the third for the KKR. The IPL 2024 tournament featuring ten teams kick-started this year on March 22 with an opening program and an entertainment program that featured Bolly wood stars Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff besides Sonu Nigam and AR Rehman, before the opening match between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. Each of the ten teams played a total of 14 games — seven home and seven away. After the group stage, the top four teams – Kolkata Knight Riders, Sun Risers Hyderabad, Rajasthan Royal, and Royal Challengers Bangalore - advanced to the high-stakes Qualifier and Eliminator stages, and the two deserving teams, KKR and SRH, were pitted in the finals, which was played yesterday.

The IPL 2024, a two-month extravaganza, has financially benefitted players from across the globe and upcoming stars and youngsters from India. The IPL season in India not only benefits cricket players and the franchises but also provides a positive impact on the Indian economy. Therefore, it was no wonder that IPL was chosen as one of the sections in the three Cricket Connects exhibitions in South Africa, Australia, and England, which I had the honour to curate and present in these countries.   

The genesis of IPL, which is now in its 17^th year and is considered to be one of the highly successful tournaments, goes back to September 2007, when the maverick fugitive Lalit Modi, the key architect of IPL, was handed a US $ 25 million check from the Board of Control for Cricket in India, for formalising and launching a new cricket league. This was called the Indian Premier League (IPL). Lalit Modi, who is now an absconder, faced the daunting task of building a sustainable business model, that would create appropriate incentives to motivate players, broadcasters, franchise owners, and various cricket boards to join in this effort. He had just seven months to accomplish his task. When the first draft of the Indian Premier League was outlined, its architects would have hardly imagined it would turn into the gigantic success that it is today, in its seventeenth year.

The inaugural edition of the IPL started in 2008, with the business house DLF as its title sponsor. Ever since, various business houses have been associated with IPL as title sponsors and for the IPL 2024, the title sponsors are the Tata group.  The IPL has been a sporting event full of extravaganza and has instantly become popular among the entire community of cricket-loving Indians. IPL is Twenty 20 cricket, famously referred to as T20. The IPL cricket tournament does not represent any Nation; rather it is played almost like a club tournament. It consists of a mix of Indian and foreign cricketers. Each team has a franchise and this year ten teams participated in the IPL 2024 tournament. eight in all). The selection of the players by the franchises is one of the most interesting aspects of the IPL. Different franchises bid for the cricketers of their choice for their team and the franchise who is the highest bidder for a particular player wins the bidding, and the player has to join that team. There has been fierce bidding for star players by the franchises, each benefitting the players directly.

The second edition of the IPL coincided with the general elections in India and therefore, the BCCI decided to shift the entire event to South Africa, which readily agreed to host the second edition of the IPL. South Africa, realising the reach of the IPL, ensured that the IPL platform was used to draw many social benefits The best part of the IPL 2009 edition was not the wins, the spectacular sixers, or the Bollywood stars, but the frequent recognition of hundreds of children, teachers, and schools in every game. The venue of each IPL match in South Africa was used to distribute much-needed scholarships and gifts to several children and schools. There was a social lesson for India from the experience of IPL in South Africa to use this platform to publicize socially relevant messages to the audience in India, which unfortunately has not happened.

The IPL has become a spectacular exhibition of a brand of cricket that has rewritten the gospels of the game and continues to attract the cricketing world. It has, in many ways, turned the game into a thriving industry with Bollywood and captains of the Indian Industry joining hands to take part in this annual sporting event that appeals to every section of Indian society. The IPL has helped Cricket from being an international game to becoming a global sport. The incentives of playing the IPL are far more enticing—not just money, which is huge, but the exposure that the players get is also matchless.

The IPL also provides a golden opportunity for young Indian players to rub shoulders with the best in the world in a competitive yet friendly environment, which is so essential in modern times of competitive sports. Cricket, like many other sports, is highly competitive and more so when countries play against each other. The game whips up passions and anger both among spectators and also players. The IPL provides a platform for players from disparate backgrounds to play for the same franchisee and share the same dressing room thus bringing together players who otherwise would have been at loggerheads. Andrew Symonds and Harbhajan Singh put behind their acrimony to turn out for Mumbai Indians and be the best of pals all through the tournament.

The IPL2024, notwithstanding the general elections, has turned out to be a major success in India primarily because of the large number of spectators that the tournament attracts - both on-site at the stadiums and off-site through millions and millions of TV viewers at their homes. From children to adults, male or female, ordinary to famous, almost every Indian loves to watch cricket and therefore the IPL has enjoyed this privilege ever since its inaugural tournament and has gained huge popularity.  The tournament has been emboldened by the glamorous media coverage that the game gets. During the entire 8-week period of the game, every single print media gave maximum column centimeter coverage for the IPL 2024 be it in the form of news or advertisement, in both English and regional language print media. A majority of the advertisement slots in hundreds of TV channels are all taken by the IPL and most of the TV channels provide extensive coverage of the event all through the IPL season. No consumer product feels satisfied with its advertising until and unless its advertisement mix includes a slot in the IPL.

The success of the IPL has led to the rapid growth of the sports industry in India, with more and more investors showing interest in the sector. This has also led to the improvement in the development of infrastructure, training facilities, etc. When the IPL opened in 2008, Sony Entertainment Television purchased IPL’s broadcast rights for 10 years for Rs 8,200 crore. Last year, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) sold the 2023-27 IPL media rights for a whopping Rs 48,390 crore, with TV rights (Star Sports) accounting for Rs 23,575 crore and digital (Viacom18) fetching Rs 23,758 crore. The success of IPL has also created a greater influence and interest in the start-up culture in India, which is growing exponentially. IPL has provided an opportunity for new ventures, and creative ideas, to implement new technologies for harvesting the benefits from IPL. Some of the noticeable start-ups developed in recent times as a result of the success of IPL include; My11Circle, Rupay, Dream11, ACKO, Six5Six, etc.

The value of the IPL and its contributions to the Indian economy and the growth of the Indian GDP can best be appreciated from a report from KPMG for the year 2015. According to a report by KPMG, the IPL contributed 11.5 billion Rupees to GDP in 2015.  The report added that this figure is expected to increase in the coming years. According to a report by consulting firm D & P Advisory, IPL became a Decacorn in December 2022 and was valued at US$10.9 billion, registering a 75% growth in dollar terms since 2020 when it was valued at $6.2 billion.

The commercial success of the IPL has demonstrated the profitability of investing in sports in India and has encouraged corporates to invest in sports infrastructure across the country, benefiting not just cricket but other sports as well. The success of IPL has inspired the creation of professional leagues in other sports, such as the Pro Kabaddi League, Indian Super League (football), and Premier Badminton League. These leagues have provided platforms for athletes from various sports to showcase their talents and gain financial stability. It has contributed to a growing interest in sports among the youth. Schools and communities are now more inclined to support sports programs, leading to increased participation in a variety of sports. The success of IPL has created a new generation of sports icons who are not only cricketers but also athletes from other sports leagues. These role models inspire young athletes to pursue sports as a viable career option. 

The IPL has generated numerous economic opportunities, including jobs in marketing, event management, coaching, and sports journalism. This diversification has supported the broader sports ecosystem in India. The success of the IPL has fostered a sporting culture that values fitness, teamwork, and competitive spirit. This cultural shift is beneficial for societal health and well-being, promoting an active lifestyle.

The overwhelming success of the IPL has sometimes led to a disproportionate allocation of resources to cricket, potentially at the expense of other sports. This can limit the growth and development opportunities for athletes in less popular sports. The heavy commercialization of the IPL has sometimes prioritized entertainment over the sport itself. This focus on monetary gain can overshadow the essence of sportsmanship and fair play. While the IPL promotes cricket at a professional level, grassroots development in other sports may still be lacking. Comprehensive support for sports needs to include grassroots initiatives to ensure long-term success and inclusivity. The immense popularity of the IPL has heightened the societal obsession with cricket, which can lead to the neglect of other sports. Balanced attention is required to foster a more inclusive sports environment.

The Indian Premier League has undoubtedly transformed the landscape of sports in India, bringing significant economic benefits and fostering a vibrant sporting culture. Its success has paved the way for other sports to gain recognition and investment, contributing to a more diverse sports ecosystem. However, it is crucial to address the challenges of resource allocation and commercialization to ensure that all sports receive adequate support and attention. By balancing these aspects, India can continue to cultivate a rich and inclusive sporting culture that benefits society as a whole.

Earth Day "Planet vs. Plastics” : Balancing Act of the Dual Nature of Plastic and Its Impact on Planet Earth

“Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts. “Rachel Carson, The Sense of Wonder”.

 The Earth Day Network, which spearheads the world's largest environmental movement and leads the commemoration of ‘Earth Day’, succinctly defines the importance of this day. It emphasises that ‘this is the moment to change it all — the business climate, the political climate, and how we take action on climate. Now is the time for the unstoppable courage to preserve and protect our health, our families, and our livelihoods… together, we must Invest In Our Planet’.

 Every year Earth Day is commemorated under a specific theme and this year the theme is  "Planet vs. Plastics”. Although Plastics were a boon for humankind when they were discovered, but then human greed for overusing this wonder material has led to disastrous consequences, whose impact is evidenced in the resplendently visible scenes of plastic dumps and wastes strewn across cities and towns and majorly in the water bodies including seas and oceans.

 In the intricate balance between harvesting benefits of science and technology for human and societal welfare, there comes a time when the consequences of overuse and abuse of products of science we find ourselves at a crossroads where innovation meets responsibility. This dichotomy is more apparent when it comes to the use of plastic and polymer science.

 Birthed by the ingenious minds of chemists and scientists, there is no doubt that polymer science in general, and plastics in particular, have revolutionised our lives, offering convenience, durability, and versatility unparalleled by any other material. Yet, beneath the surface of this modern marvel and its applications lies an inconvenient truth: our over-reliance and careless disposal of plastics have inflicted grievous wounds upon our planet.

 As we commemorate Earth Day this year, the chosen theme of "Planet vs Plastic" serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance we must strike between progress and preservation. The story of plastic is one of triumph and tragedy—a tale of human ingenuity intertwined with environmental degradation by virtue of our irresponsibility in its usage. From life-saving medical devices to lightweight packaging, plastics have undeniably transformed modern society. The advent of polymer chemistry has paved the way for innovations that have enhanced countless aspects of our lives, from technology to transportation. However, with great power comes greater responsibility, and the unchecked proliferation of plastic has exacted an unprecedented heavy price on our planet.

 Plastics, designed for durability and longevity, possess a characteristic that is both a blessing and a curse—they are not easily biodegradable. This inherent property, while ensuring the longevity of plastic products, also means that discarded plastics persist in the environment for centuries, if not millennia. The consequences of this longevity are stark and far-reaching. Our oceans, once teeming with life and beauty, have become veritable graveyards of plastic waste. From microplastics to gargantuan garbage patches, our marine ecosystems are suffocating under the weight of our plastic addiction. Sea creatures, from majestic whales to diminutive plankton, are falling victim to ingesting or becoming entangled in plastic debris, leading to suffering and death on a staggering scale.

 On land, plastic pollution mars the landscapes we call home, contaminating soil, waterways, and the air we breathe. From littered streets to sprawling landfills that are seen in cities like Mumbai, the visible and invisible footprint of plastic extends far and wide, leaving a legacy of environmental degradation for future generations to inherit.

 Yet, amidst the despair, there is hope. The same innovative spirit that gave rise to plastic holds the key to mitigating its adverse effects. Advances in biodegradable and recyclable plastics offer a glimmer of hope for a more sustainable future. By harnessing the power of science and technology, we can develop eco-friendly alternatives to conventional plastics, closing the loop on the plastic lifecycle and minimizing our impact on the planet. For this to happen we the people must be vigilant citizens of this unique planet Earth, which we call home. Technological solutions alone are not enough. Addressing the plastic crisis requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses education, regulation, and individual responsibility. From reducing single-use plastics to implementing effective waste management strategies, every action, no matter how small, contributes to the collective effort to protect our planet.

 As we reflect on the theme of this Earth Day, let us heed the lessons of the past and chart a course toward a more sustainable future. Let us celebrate the ingenuity of plastic while acknowledging its limitations and the profound responsibility that comes with its use. For Earth is not merely a backdrop for human endeavors; it is a precious oasis of life in the vast expanse of the cosmos—a fragile jewel worthy of our utmost care and reverence.

 Here is a link to my blog which I wrote to commemorate Earth Day in 2022 in which I had highlighted the singularity of our beautiful Blue Planet, which is one and only one of its kind in the unending cosmos that houses billions of galaxies each of which is home to billions of stars and one such star Sun harbours us, our Blue Planet,  Earth,  

 https://khened.blogspot.com/2022/04/world-earth-day-22nd-april-2022-invest.html

 

 

Social Welfare and Freebies in Political Discourse

 

Ever since the announcement of the 17^th Loksabha election schedule by the Election Commission, a googolplex amount of digital data (energy-guzzling medium) has been created, generated, and consumed by the Oceanic amount of space that is finding its place in various social media posts and so also on the What's App group chats.

Dime a dozen amount of forwards - some with heavy images videos and data - are getting circulated in social media and so also are animated discussions that have populated the Whats App groups. Tigers 77 is one such Whats App group, made up of members from the 1977 batch of Sainik School Bijapur students, and yours truly is one of its members. Yesterday, the group was engaged in a highly animated discussion on the forthcoming Lok Sabha election and one of the points discussed was the election manifestos of the parties. During this discussion, an interesting debate unfolded on the election manifestos of BJP and Congress, the two main Political parties. There was a heated debate on social welfare measures/freebies that formed a part of their election manifesto. Those in support of the ruling party justified the election manifesto of the BJP including the promises made in the manifesto. The opponents, however, dubbed the BJP party and their manifesto as a Jhoomla and their leader a dictator. The supporters of Congress tried to justify the promises made by the Congress in their manifesto. There was discussion on the economic ramifications of the election manifestos on the country. Even amidst a heated debate, one common understanding was that in the long term freebies are destined to create problems for the nation and this post of mine is an outcome of our discussion.

In one of my blog posts last year, written on December 13, I had posted about the tragedy of the commons. The concept of the “Tragedy of Commons,” famously elucidated by an ecologist, Garrett Hardin, serves as a poignant warning against the depletion of shared resources due to individual self-interest. Hardin’s thesis posits that when multiple individuals or groups act in their own self-interest without regard for the common good, they inevitably deplete or degrade a shared resource, leading to long-term detrimental consequences for all. Here is a link to that blog.

https://khened.blogspot.com/2023/12/13-december-tragedy-of-commons.html

I am taking this premise forward to address the subject matter in the context of the 17^th Lok Sabha Elections and its impact.

Social welfare mechanisms in an election manifesto typically entail sustainable policies aimed at uplifting marginalized communities through education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and social safety nets. These measures are designed to address systemic inequalities and promote long-term development. However, there lies a thin line between what social welfare measures and what one could call freebies.

Freebies often refer to short-term populist measures that provide immediate benefits without addressing underlying issues. While they may garner short-term support, they can strain government finances and undermine economic stability if not carefully managed.

Both NDA and I.N.D.I.A must therefore strike a balance between addressing societal needs through welfare programs and avoiding unsustainable practices that could lead to economic distress. Sustainable policies prioritize investment in human capital and infrastructure while fostering economic growth, ensuring a more equitable and prosperous future for all citizens.

The “Tragedy of Commons” provides a profound understanding of human behavior and its impact on communal resources. This holds critical relevance beyond environmental contexts, extending into the socio-political arena, particularly in the context of our subject matter and electoral politics and practices in India.

India, the world’s largest democracy, is currently in the throes of election fervor, with political parties vying for power through populist measures and promises of freebies. However, amidst the clamor for votes and electoral victories, there lies a perilous path paved with the allure of freebies and short-term gains, ignoring the looming specter of economic ruin and societal degradation akin to the Venezuelan example.

Venezuela once hailed as an economic powerhouse in Latin America, descended into chaos and destitution as successive governments implemented populist policies, including extensive freebie programs. By lavishing free goods and services upon its citizens without sustainable economic foundations, Venezuela unwittingly propelled itself into a downward spiral of hyperinflation, scarcity, and social unrest. The tragic outcome serves as a sobering reminder of the perils of sacrificing long-term economic stability at the altar of short-term political gains.

In the Indian context, the proliferation of freebies, ranging from subsidized food grains and healthcare to loan waivers and cash transfers, has become a cornerstone of electoral strategies. While these promises may garner short-term electoral dividends, their long-term repercussions threaten to undermine the very fabric of the nation’s economic resilience and social cohesion. The Tragedy of Commons, as articulated by Hardin, elucidates the inherent flaw in the culture of freebies perpetuated by political parties. Just as individuals exploiting shared resources lead to their depletion, political parties indulging in reckless populism jeopardize the nation’s fiscal health and social equilibrium.

By pandering to immediate gratification and neglecting the imperative of responsible governance, they squander the collective wealth and well-being of future generations. Moreover, the insidious nature of freebies breeds a culture of dependency and entitlement, eroding the spirit of self-reliance and innovation that are indispensable for national progress. Instead of fostering a culture of empowerment and sustainable development, the proliferation of freebies engenders a vicious cycle of dependency, wherein citizens become passive recipients rather than active participants in the nation’s growth story.

To avert the impending Tragedy of Commons in the realm of Indian politics, a paradigm shift is imperative. Political discourse must transcend the allure of short-term electoral gains and embrace a vision of inclusive growth and responsible governance. Rather than succumbing to the temptation of populist measures, political leaders must chart a course guided by prudence, foresight, and a steadfast commitment to the common good.

In conclusion, the Tragedy of Commons serves as a poignant allegory for the perils of political populism and the unsustainable pursuit of freebies in Indian elections. By heeding the lessons of history, particularly the cautionary tale of Venezuela, and embracing a holistic approach to governance rooted in fiscal discipline and social equity, India can navigate the treacherous waters of electoral politics toward a brighter and more sustainable future for generations to come and look forward to India that is Bharat becoming a developed nation on or before we celebrate our centenary of Indian independence.

 

Ugadi / Gudi Padwa (Vikram Samvat 2081) : Beginning of a Hindu New Year

Ugadi or Gudi Padwa marks the beginning of a New Year of Vikram Samvat (2081) of the Hindu Calendar. Vikram Samvat is believed to be the day when emperor Vikramaditya defeated the Sakas and invaded Ujjain. The day is celebrated differently in different parts of the country. However, the underlying message remains the same - to welcome the New Year with positivity and optimism and to face happiness, sorrow and surprises that are a given all through our lives, every year.

Ugadi / Gudi Padva - former celebrated by the people of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana and the later celebrated by the people of Maharashtra and Goa - falls on the first day of the Shukla Paksha of the Chaitra month of the Hindu calendar. Ugadi, or Yugadi is derived from two Sanskrit words ‘Yuga’ meaning ‘age’ and ‘adi’ meaning ‘beginning’. Ugadi, therefore, marks commencement of a new Hindu Lunar Calendar with a change in the moons orbit. It is believed that Ugadi, which usually falls in the last quarter of March or first half of April of the Gregorian Calendar, marks the beginning or the first day of the new age and this year, according to the Hindu Panchang, Ugadi will be celebrated on this day, 9 April, 2024. 

Legend has it that Bhagwan Brahma (one of the three main Gods in the Hindu pantheon, Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshvara ) created Brahmand (Universe) on this day. Then came the Yuga, which was created by Lord Vishnu. Yugaadikrit is one of the many names of Lord Vishnu, which means the creator of ages or Yuga. Therefore, on this day, devotees worship Lord Vishnu - the creator of Yuga or ages. For the people living in the Deccan region, Ugadi is an important day, besides its spiritual significance, it also marks the arrival of the spring season. The day begins with the morning bath (shower) where neem leaves are mixed in water. Neem is also used in preparation of one of the special sweet recipes, which is prepared using Bevu ( neem flowers) Bella (jaggery), raw mangoes and dry fruits. 

I remember that my sister used to prepare this mouth watering delicious dish to celebrate the festival of Ugadi. This sweet dish - very popular in north Karnataka the region to which I belong - prepared to mark the occasion of Ugadi, uses an ingredient mixture of sweet, bitter and pungent. This dish symbolises that life is a mixture of happiness, sadness, anger, disgust, fear and surprise and that we must be prepared to face it all. The Sweet taste comes from jaggery that is used in abundance and this ingredient symbolises sweetness of life or happiness. Astringent or pungent taste comes from raw mangoes or tamarind, this symbolises that life is full of surprises which come our way and we should be prepared to face them. Then comes the bitter taste that is derived from neem flowers, which represent sorrow which too is an integral part of all our lives. This special dish prepared to mark the Ugadi, metaphorically speaking, prepares us for the year ahead, that may be filled with a mix of happiness, sadness and surprises. 

Speaking of sadness and surprises COVID 19 was a disgusting surprise for all of us when it began to spread its tentacles in Indian in 2020. Ironically, four years ago, Ugadi was celebrated on 26th March, 2020, which was the first day of the beginning of the saga of the COVID 19 lockdowns that was first announced by the Prime Minister on 25th March 2020 for three weeks. The lockdown was later extended and what followed is now history. India and the world have passed through the worst of times with loss of millions of lives and many more millions of loss of livelihood and suffering (680 plus million people affected by COVID 19 and over 6 million deaths). Although COVID 19 is behind us, it has taught us to be resilient to face such shocks and disgusting surprises. Wishing you all a very happy Ugadi / Gudi Padwa. May this new year usher in good health and happiness and may the years ahead, truly be the Amrit Kaal for Indians as we head towards achieving our aspirations to make our country Vikshit Bharat, by the time we celebrate the centenary of our independence.

40th Year of Rakesh Sharma's Tryst with Space and his Enduring Words “Saare Jahan Se Achha”

 

This post is courtesy of my fellow Ajeet – An alumnus of Sainik School Bijapur – Ranga, who has been working tirelessly to populate the Ajeet Knowledge Forum (AKF) YouTube Channel with all the videos of the distinguished speakers who were hosted by AKF over the past two and half years. One of our distinguished speakers was Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who delivered an inspirational lecture on his tryst with space destiny and motivated young Ajeet and cadet Ajeets, from Sainik School Bijapur who had joined this online lecture.

 Today, April 3, 2024, marks the fortieth anniversary of that historic and pivotal moment in Indian history when Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma - then Squadron Leader - embarked on a journey that transcended the bounds of Earth's atmosphere, and created history. He became the first Indian astronaut to venture into space when he flew aboard the Soviet rocket Soyuz T-11 launched from Baikonur Cosmodrome in the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic on 3 April 1984

 As Rakesh Sharma soared into the cosmos, he carried with him the aspirations and dreams of a nation that had begun to appreciate the vision of the father of the Indian Space program, Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, of harvesting the benefits of space applications for human benefits, as exemplified by the three stellar projects Satellite Instruction Television Experiment (SITE), developing an Indian Satellite (Aryabhata) and also launching an indigenous space launch vehicle (SLV). Rakesh Sharma’s mission was not merely a scientific endeavor but a testament to human ingenuity and the unyielding spirit of exploration. Amidst the vastness of space, he encountered a moment that would resonate with generations to come – a moment when he was asked by then Prime Minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi, "How does India look from space?"

In response, Sharma uttered words that would reverberate across the nation: "Sare Jaha Se Achha". These words continue to encapsulate the feelings of 1.4 billion people even today. These words became an anthem of pride, echoing through the hearts of millions and inspiring a sense of unity and patriotism.

The alumni of our prestigious Sainik School Bijapur, Ajeets Alumni Association (AAA), had the privilege of hearing firsthand accounts of his journey and experiences in space. It was on 9 April 2022; Rakesh Sharma's enduring legacy was commemorated in a monumental event which was hosted by AKF under the auspices of the AAA.

His lecture transcended the boundaries of time and space, transporting the audience into the awe-inspiring realm of the cosmos. He imparted invaluable insights into the human spirit and the quest for knowledge. His words resonated with the audience, igniting a spark of curiosity and ambition in the hearts of Ajeets and cadet Ajeets.

Here is a link to his talk on the AKF YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qY7tfSnvL70&t=793s

The AKF - true to the culture and traditions of our alma mater SSBJ - follows a protocol while hosting lectures of distinguished speakers under the auspices of the AKF platform and that includes a six to seven-minute introduction of the speaker by one of the Ajeets. Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma was introduced by one of our senior Ajeets, General Arjun Muthanna. I had the honour to prepare the introduction of the speaker and I am happy to share this on my blog as we celebrate the fortieth year of Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma’s Space Odyssey.  

Introduction to Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma for the AKF Meet held on 9^th April 2022.

Space has always been fantasised about and romanticised by humankind. There are very few people who have had the pleasure and privilege to have fulfilled their fantasy of going to space. We the Ajeets are so very lucky that today’s speaker - Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma- is the one and only person from India to have achieved this distinction. Having walked the very precincts of the institute, from where Rakesh Sharma ji passed out – National Defence Academy Pune – on behalf of the AAA and AKF, it is a great honour for me to introduce Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma and I am so very humbled to be doing this honour.

Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma is a name that no Indian will ever forget. His iconic “Saare Jahah Se Accha” reply to the question that Mrs Indira Gandhi, the then Prime Minister of India, asked, “Bharat Asman Se Kaisa Dikhta Hai? (how India looked from outer space) is something which resonates with all Indians. For all Indians, his words have remained as profound as the words of Neil Armstrong –  “One small step for man and a giant leap for mankind”.  Rakesh Sharma continues to be the first and the only Indian to date and the 138th person to travel in space. He spent eight days in the Salyut 7 space station beginning on 3 April 1984 and his feat made India the 14th nation to send a man to outer space.

Rakesh Sharma ji is the recipient of the prestigious Ashoka Chakra, the highest peacetime gallantry award, awarded by the Indian Government. His other coveted awards include the Hero of the Soviet Union and The Order of Lenin by the erstwhile Soviet Government.

Born on 13 January 1949 in Patiala Punjab - on the auspicious Lohri (Sankranti) Day festival, the boy Rakesh Sharma was destined for an extraordinary achievement later in his life. He remains the only Indian citizen to have travelled into space to date. (There have been other Indian-origin astronauts, but they were not bonafide Indian citizens at the time of space travel). Rakesh Sharma completed his schooling in Hyderabad at St. George's Grammar School and graduated from Nizam College, Hyderabad. He then joined the prestigious National Defence Academy as an Air Force plebe in July 1966 and was commissioned into the Indian Air Force as a pilot in 1970.

Indian tryst with space had begun in the late sixties with the dreams of Vikram Sarabhai and Prof Satish Dhawan. By the 1980s, the Indian Space Research Organisation was on a development curve so impressive that on certain space missions, the Russian Space Agency collaborated with ISRO. In one such collaboration – space mission - Squadron Leader Rakesh Sharma was selected for a space voyage, on 20 September 1982, to become a cosmonaut and go into space as part of a joint programme between the Indian Air Force and the Soviet Interkosmos space programme on the Soyuz T-11 with Russian cosmonauts. That meant the standby Indian Astronaut Wing Commander Ravish Malhotra had to stay back.

Sharma left for Russia to complete a gruelling training under the Russian scientists' watch. Unfortunately, when he was undergoing his training, tragedy struck his family but then like that quintessential brave Indian soldier that he was, he continued on the mission entrusted to him, and on 3 April 1984, he was launched into space as on schedule thus becoming the first Indian to go to space.

The Soyuz T-11 spacecraft carrying cosmonauts including Sharma docked and transferred the three-member Soviet-Indian international crew, consisting of the ship's commander, Yury Malyshev, and flight engineer, Gennadi Strekalov, to the Salyut 7 Orbital Station. Sharma spent 7 days, 21 hours, and 40 minutes aboard the Salyut 7 during which his team conducted scientific and technical studies which included forty-three experimental sessions. Interestingly Rakesh Sharma had the privilege to savour Indian delicacies in space courtesy of the Defence Food Research Laboratory in Mysore. It had packed Indian delicacies viz. suji halwa, alu choley , and vegetable pulao for Sharma, which he gladly shared with Malyshev and Strekalov in outer space. Yoga which has now gained international fame is what Rakesh Sharma practised for 10 minutes every day while in space and advised other astronauts to do the same to avert space sickness.

Rakesh Sharma flew 21 Operational Missions on a Mig-21 aircraft during the Indo-Pak War in 1971. He was selected for the Production Test Pilots Course in 1975 and later, in 1979 for the Experimental Test Pilots Course at the Test Pilot’s School of the Indian Air Force’s Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment, Bangalore.

He served as an Air Force Test Pilot for 15 years before being seconded to the Industry, in 1987. It was during this period that he was selected for the Joint Indo-Soviet Space Mission.

Rakesh Sharma returned to his test flying career after the space flight and served as the Chief Project Pilot of India’s Light Combat Aircraft ‘Tejas’ and, as Chief Test Pilot of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL). During this period, his skills were extensively utilized by HAL on its indigenous Intermediate Jet Trainer Project. Out of a flying career spanning 33 years, he spent 24 years testing aircraft and systems. During this period, he flew 4000 hrs on all front-line fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force, apart from the NT-33, NF-16, and the F-18. Retired from test flying in July 2001.

Post his retirement he joined the IT Industry in 2001 as the Chief Operating Officer of a Business Process Management IT company. Later, he headed the Indian Aerospace and Defence business unit of Parametric Technology Corporation, USA, till his retirement from active service in 2009.

Post-retirement, he was appointed as Chairman of the Board of Candela Labs, an IT company located in Bangalore till he decided to step down in 2019. 

He now lives in Coonoor in Tamil Nadu and is a non-executive chairman of Bangalore (Bengaluru) Based Cadila Lab.

Incidentally, yours truly had the honour to host Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma as one of the distinguished guests while commemorating the 60^th year of human space flight in April 2021. It was on 12^th April 1961 that Yuri Gagarin became the first Cosmonaut in Space. To commemorate this historic occasion, the Nehru Science Centre, Mumbai tied up with the Russian Centre for Science and Culture to organise a mega event involving Cosmonauts from Russia and Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma. This event was organised on 9 April 2021, online.

22 March 2024, World Water Day: Water for Peace

 

 

“Anything else you’re interested in is not going to happen if you can’t breathe the air or drink the water.” - Carl Sagan

 

"It is scarcity and plenty that make the vulgar take things to be precious or worthless; they call a diamond very beautiful because it is like pure water, and then would not exchange one for ten barrels of water.” - Galileo

 

March 22 is observed as World Water Day, this year, the focus is on the theme, ‘Leveraging Water for Peace’. UN adopted a resolution to observe World Water Day in its UN General Assembly on December 22, 1992, and ever since March 22 is observed every year, around the world as World WATER Day (WWD). The first WWD was observed in the year 1993. The objective of commemorating this day is to draw the attention of the people to the global water crisis and enhance awareness of its impact on our survival on this unique planet. Besides, this day is also commemorated to "support the achievement of UN sustainable development goal (SDG) 6: water and sanitation for all by 2030."

Every one of us is aware that 'Water is the elixir of life'. From drinking to cleaning and other things, life cannot be sustained without it. While many people are privileged to have running water 24/7, there is a huge population around the globe that does not have access to any amount of water and it is this scarcity that can lead to conflicts and therefore, it is timely that we learn the importance of water and leverage this precious resource, which the nature has bestowed on our planet, for peace by learning to cooperate to live peacefully.  Our planet Earth - a blue planet - is the only known celestial body in the vast universe, which harbours water and sustains life in its vast diversity. This is profoundly evidenced in an excerpt taken from the famous Carl Sagan book - Pale Blue Dot. It highlights the vastness of the cosmos, amidst billions of galaxies and countless stars, there exists a singular marvel—a blue oasis of life known as planet Earth. What sets our home apart from the cosmic tapestry is not merely its breathtaking beauty or its intricate ecosystems, but the presence of a precious resource that makes our planet look blue and sets it apart from other celestial bodies for its uniqueness in harbouring water which sustains all forms of life.

Water, the elixir of life, flows like a vein through the heart of our planet, nurturing and sustaining every living being in its embrace. From the depths of the oceans to the heights of the mountains, from the lush forests to the parched deserts, water is the thread that weaves together the fabric of life, shaping landscapes and ecosystems with its gentle touch. Unfortunately, over the years our greed and an unending and uncontrolled development have resulted in water stress in many areas, which can be seen in the city of Bengaluru, which is now in the headlines.

According to a UN report, 1.8 billion people live in homes without safe drinking water, and each year, 829,000 people die from diseases directly attributable to unsafe water, inadequate sanitation, and poor hygiene practices. WWD is commemorated every year to remind people of the precious resource that we often take for granted.   Some 650 million people, nearly one in 10 of the world's population, do not have access to improved sources of drinking water and one in three lacks improved sanitation, putting them at risk of infectious diseases and premature death. UN-Water, the United Nations inter-agency coordination mechanism for all freshwater-related issues including sanitation, concluded that the major sources of water pollution are from human settlements and industrial and agricultural activities.

 

As stewards of this precious gift, it is our collective responsibility to safeguard and preserve our water resources for future generations. Through conservation efforts, sustainable management practices, and equitable access initiatives, we can ensure that every individual has the opportunity to thrive in a world where water is abundant, clean, and accessible to all. Let us pledge to be mindful of our water footprint, and to cherish and protect the rivers, lakes, and oceans that sustain life on our planet. Let us work together to harness the power of innovation and technology to address the challenges of water scarcity and pollution, forging a path towards a more resilient and water-secure future for all.

On this World Water Day, let us unite in our commitment to protect and preserve this precious resource, recognizing that the health and well-being of humanity are intricately linked to the health of our planet's water systems. Together, let us strive to ensure that the blue planet continues to shine brightly as a beacon of life and vitality in the vast expanse of the universe.

Happy World Water Day

The year 2013 was commemorated as the International Year of Water Cooperation and the National Council of Science Museums, the organization where I worked used this opportunity to organize the National Science Seminar for students under the theme “ Water Cooperation Issues and Challenges” and the Nehru Science Centre, Mumbai was tasked to conduct this seminar. This was one of the most successful events and a special souvenir was brought out on the occasion which contained many articles including an article by yours truly which was later published on my Blog whose link is given below.

https://khened.blogspot.com/2019/10/prsi-national-award-2017.html