Former Governor, Jammu & Kashmir
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
A lack of transparency results in distrust and a deep sense of insecurity. — The Dalai Lama
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Modern warfare is a tool of mass murder despite the obsolete idea of victory. Offering subsidies and support prices for alternative crops can reduce stubble burning. The Election Commission's credibility is at stake, requiring transparency in voter list verification. Nationwide electoral roll revision is needed. Voters should critically evaluate election manifesto promises. India's partnership with Russia marks a leap toward self-reliance in civil aviation.
Restraint in statecraft is crucial, unlike soldiering, which prioritizes action. AI requires self-monitoring to combat deepfakes and maintain digital safety. The government must secure the digital space and uphold public trust. Unresolved issues like stray dogs raise concerns about the ability to address larger challenges. Some state governments' actions compromise education quality for financial gain. A shoe-hurling incident requires punishment to uphold justice principles.
Restraint in statecraft may weaken deterrence. Women's safety requires daily, universal guarantees, beyond event-specific measures. Society's cooperation is crucial to combat drug-related crime. In Bihar, the NDA holds an advantage. Amritsar faces a waste management crisis. Schools need a balanced approach to discipline for better student preparedness for life.
India's diminishing tolerance for dissent is concerning, with academic freedom under threat. The silencing of voices and societal fragmentation hinder progress. The expulsion of scholars like Francesca Orsini is a setback. Commerce Minister's firm trade stance is noteworthy. The passing of Satish Shah is mourned for his impactful comedy.
Police forces are plagued by casteism, corruption, and political influence, hindering justice and requiring urgent reforms. India needs to boost indigenous oil production and promote electric vehicles. The FSSAI banned misleading 'ORS' beverages. The UN's relevance in preventing global conflicts is questioned. Technology is replacing genuine human connection.
Punjab faces economic strain due to high debt. Delhi's air pollution requires addressing the real sources and stricter law enforcement. The Election Commission is criticized for inaction on pre-election financial incentives. Congress is ceding ground to regional parties hoping for reciprocal support. India's afforestation efforts need further improvement and balanced regional implementation.
India's cautious approach to a BRICS common currency reflects strategic autonomy, prioritizing economic stability amidst growing US ties. Concerns are raised about the Lokpal's luxury car purchase and its effectiveness. Calls for organ donation awareness and government support for farmers impacted by heavy rains are emphasized.
Bihar's upcoming election will be a crucial test for alliances. A retired Air Marshal criticized a retired Vice Admiral for publicly disputing the IAF. The global economy needs flexible policies for sustainable growth. Diwali firecracker restrictions were widely ignored. Veteran comedian Asrani has passed away, known for his roles in Sholay and other films.
This day that year View More
A National Flag symbolizes a nation's distinct identity and unity. Its unfurling, initially during the anti-partition movement, represents India's desire for self-governance. Local officials' initial hostility toward the flag eventually subsided, acknowledging its peaceful intent and inclusive representation of all Indian communities.
Dr. JC Bose's prior discoveries established his scientific eminence. His recent Darjeeling lecture detailed a potentially revolutionary finding. Previously, Bose demonstrated plant sensitivity, recording growth in seconds using Indian-made apparatuses. Scientists initially doubted these findings, contradicting existing beliefs about plant responsiveness.
Motilal Nehru warned the government of an upcoming shift in the Swarajist party's strategy. He indicated a mandate from the Cawnpore Congress to revert to non-cooperation policies, potentially including council obstruction and civil disobedience, though specifics were withheld.
Lala Lajpat Rai criticized Sarojini Naidu's speeches, urging her to influence Muslim friends. Naidu, disappointed, countered by asking Rai to abandon communalism. The author believes these public disagreements between the leaders are unproductive, suggesting private discussion would be more beneficial.
Convertibility is crucial for free currency circulation, especially in India. Proposed changes to currency rules, penalizing note cutting, threaten public credit and inconvenience citizens. New rules deny claims on certain mismatched notes and delay payments for halves of higher denomination notes.
Sarojini Naidu, in an English speech, condemned separate communal representation, deeming it detrimental to national unity. She argued it fosters distrust and undermines Swaraj. Her strong stance aligns with nationalist principles, likely leading to temporary unpopularity among separatists, but benefiting from support in other circles.
Sarojini Naidu's call for Hindu-Muslim unity is supported, but her speech lacks concrete solutions. The author criticizes her general terms, particularly the dismissal of communal representation as a symptom, not the root cause. The real issue is the spirit of communalism.
The Gujranwala Punjab Provincial Political Conference was a success. It drew diverse attendees, featured high-quality speeches (including Sarojini Naidu's), and addressed a wide range of important issues like political prisoners, Indian rights, and communal harmony.
The author dismisses a report that Motilal Nehru opposes office acceptance based on a Royal Commission's potential. Nehru's opposition is rooted in deeper reasons. A truly representative commission, not just any, is needed for cooperation. Despite this, many anticipate a significant announcement from Lord Birkenhead.
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