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Bihar elections: NDA, Mahagathbandhan manifestos for an aspirational electorate
The NDA and Mahagathbandhan manifestos for Bihar reveal a shift towards governance-focused politics, prioritizing employment and infrastructure over traditional caste dynamics. Both alliances aim to address job creation and women's empowerment, albeit through different approaches. While the Mahagathbandhan promises rapid government job placements, the NDA emphasizes private investment. Despite skepticism about feasibility, the manifestos reflect a hopeful political landscape in Bihar.
J&K statehood: bridging the Centre-state divide
Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, expressed concerns about the lack of statehood and executive powers, which have rendered the elected government ineffective. He emphasized the need for a clear separation of powers between the elected government and the lieutenant governor's office and called for a timeline for restoring statehood to enhance local governance and public participation.
Trump-Xi meeting: G2 is a duopoly the world doesn’t need
President Trump has advocated for a US-China G2 to promote peace following discussions with President Xi. US and Chinese defense officials agreed to establish military communication channels. However, Beijing emphasizes multilateralism. India faces a strategic challenge in navigating relations with both powers, needing to maintain autonomy and partnerships with other nations to avoid enhancing China's position.
The Mokama test for Bihar administration
The NDA campaign in Bihar emphasizes that voting for the Mahagathbandhan could revive the "jungle raj" of the 1990s. Recent poll violence in Mokama, linked to a JD(U) candidate with a criminal past, challenges this narrative. The arrest of Anant Singh serves as a warning to politicians about respecting the law, crucial for maintaining peace and rebuilding Bihar.
Making sense of GST bonanza
The GST Council's rate rationalisation aimed to reduce tax burdens while boosting revenue through increased consumer spending. October's GST collections reached ₹1.96 lakh crore, supporting the government's belief in consumer response to lower prices. However, it's too early to determine the long-term impact on revenue, as various economic factors will influence future trends.
Sheikh Hasina's poll boycott warning: A case for inclusive polls in Bangladesh
Former premier Sheikh Hasina warns that Awami League supporters will boycott Bangladesh's upcoming national elections if a ban on the party isn't lifted. With the party's registration withdrawn, a boycott could undermine election legitimacy. Hasina is under investigation for past government actions, and the caretaker administration faces pressure to ensure a fair electoral process amid ongoing political tensions.
Attendance policy for research scholars: Learning can’t be assessed by clock or measured in hours
A recent attendance policy at the Indian Institute of Science's Electronic Systems Engineering department mandates excessive lab hours for students, undermining trust and fostering a punitive culture. Such policies can harm student well-being and overlook the importance of a balanced academic environment. Institutions should prioritize supportive spaces and open dialogue to enhance knowledge production rather than enforcing strict work hours.
HAL-UAC deal: Message to the US and Russia
India has signed an agreement with Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation to produce the SJ-100 regional jet, marking a significant development in their bilateral ties. This collaboration, seen as a response to Western sanctions, emphasizes India’s commitment to strategic autonomy and self-reliance in the aviation sector. The deal highlights India’s intent to diversify partnerships amid growing tensions with the US.
Bihar’s caste plus politics
Tejashwi Yadav, leader of the Rashtriya Janata Dal, discussed a new development agenda for Bihar, focusing on jobs, women's empowerment, and law and order, while notably omitting caste empowerment. This shift reflects a changing political landscape where governance issues are becoming more prominent than caste identity, signaling a potential turning point in Bihar's electoral politics.
Global energy trade: Jaishankar’s plainspeak against US doublespeak
During the East Asia Summit, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed concerns over restrictive US trade policies affecting energy access and market stability. He criticized the inconsistent application of sanctions, particularly regarding Russian energy, and highlighted the need for global cooperation to address challenges like food and fuel security, while promoting India's strengths in technology and connectivity.
