One seat is not a trend; but is it a warning?

Prashant Kishore and his party finally won an assembly seat in Bihar — Bankipur. Winning a single seat on its own is not a significant electoral event. After all, the ruling BJP-led alliance is sitting on a comfortable majority. The bigger impact may be on perception. He won the seat vacated by the current BJP chief when he moved to the Rajya Sabha. More importantly, this is not rural Bihar. Bankipur is an urban constituency in Patna, an area traditionally considered a strong ground for the BJP. Nabin himself won the seat four times — in 2010, 2015, 2020 and 2025. Before 2010, the constituency was known as Patna West. Nabin had won it once in 2006, while his father, Navin Kishore Prasad Sinha, had won it multiple times. 

In the last Bihar election, Prashant Kishore's party was unable to open its account in the Bihar Assembly. Maybe Bihar's voters simply didn't think he was there to stay. This time, however, the numbers are interesting. Compared with the previous election, the BJP's vote share in this seat fell from 62.66% to 34.4%, while the RJD's vote share fell from 29.55% to 10.95%. Considering that the previous election was held only nine months ago, in November 2025, it is mostly the same electorate voting again — but this time, many of them chose a different person.

Is this the beginning of a trend? We can't say yes at this moment. Despite many people seeing this as the beginning of the end of the BJP's majority, there simply no evidence to reach that conclusion. At best, this result might force BJP strategists to rethink their election strategy and open their eyes to the possibility that upper-class urban voters will not necessarily always vote for them. We also can't conclude that people have suddenly abandoned their caste identities and embraced everything Prashant Kishore put forward. One election is nowhere near enough evidence for that either.

But there is a more interesting question here. Will the BJP double down on its religious ideology as an electoral strategy and continue blaming the previous governments for everything that is wrong with the economy? Or will it be willing to accept that some of the problems may be of its own making? And perhaps an even more important question is whether the BJP will come to terms with the fact that there is an entire generation born after 2005 that, for all practical purposes, has seen only NDA governments. After being continuously in power for more than twelve years, everything cannot continue to be blamed on previous administrations.

Perhaps Bankipur is just one seat. Perhaps it means nothing. But sometimes, one seat is enough to make a party ask a few uncomfortable questions.

Sajeev

Elections, News, and the Never-Ending Circus of Religion and "Relevance" in Indian Media

India just witnessed a massive general election, and now Maharashtra and Jharkhand are ging to polls. Number of people participating in the mammoth exercise is staggering: around 12.23 crore (122.3 million) people are gearing up to vote in these two states alone. For perspective, that's twice the eligible voting population of Germany. As if that’s not enough, various constituencies from couple of other states are also headed for polls. But hold on, what exactly are these voters aspiring for? What’s going through their minds as they head to the booths?

Decades ago, political promises like roti, kapada, makan (food, clothing, and shelter) resonated well with them. Then came - mandal, mandir and masjid politics; later it was India shining based on the economic improvements as political slogan.  Fast-forward to today, and what matters? Well, if we go by the coverage on our major news channels, they’re essentially telling us that voters only care about… Hindu-Muslim conflicts.

Now, I’m no stranger to the daily dose of election news. At work, I pass through the pantry a few times a day, where two massive screens blast a popular Indian news channel in English. Over time, I’ve noticed a few “interesting” patterns in their current coverage of elections. Here’s a rundown:

1. Assembly elections are happening Maharashtra, Jharkhand is a kind of also ran  

   Sure, Jharkhand is also voting, but blink, and you’d miss it. Apparently, Jharkhand’s polling hardly merits a mention. It’s as if the state is merely a blip on the map-there, but not really “there.”

2. Mumbai = Maharashtra

   For the news channel, Maharashtra essentially boils down to the Mumbai metropolitan area. You’d think the other 34 districts of Maharashtra are barren wastelands, devoid of voters, or, heaven forbid, issues. It’s all about Mumbai, folks, because why cover the majority of the state when you have a glitzy metro to focus on?

3. Priyanka Gandhi in Wayanad makes the cut, sometimes  

   The sole exception to this myopic coverage? Wayanad. Why? Because Priyanka Gandhi is contesting there, in a seat previously held by her brother. Yes, this loksabha seat of Kerala, vacated by Rahul Gandhi, somehow finds a rare mention. 

4. Everything is a Hindu-Muslim problem 

   Every. Single. Issue. This is the baseline conclusion from watching the coverage. As far as these channels are concerned, voters have no other problems. No concerns about jobs, inflation, or healthcare—just the ever-present Hindu-Muslim issue looming over their heads.

5. Opinions from the Same faces, 24/7  

   Instead of giving airtime to actual candidates with stakes in these elections, we get an endless parade of party spokespeople talking in circles. Why interview people who are actually running in the election when you can have talking heads on repeat?

6. Balancing on bubbles of religion

   Got a minor, unrelated issue? Inflate it into a Hindu-Muslim conflict (or a Congress-BJP issue), and voila, you have hours of engaging prime-time debate. Remember, every tiny issue is just one twisted angle away from becoming a religious (Congress-BJP)) flashpoint.

7. Pointless religious debates round the clock  

   Late-night debates mean one thing: pulling in politicians to argue aimlessly about religion. No mention of critical issues like food security, inflation, or education. Because, really, who cares about those, right?

In the world according to this channel, Indians apparently live, breathe, and, yes, eat religion. They wake up to it, inhale it with their morning chai, and take it to bed. Issues like inflation, healthcare, or entrepreneurial opportunities? Mere background noise. Don’t worry if you’re going to bed hungry, can’t afford a doctor, or can’t get a loan to start a business. These things just don’t sell airtime like a good old-fashioned religious debate.

A wake-up call to national news (a.k.a entertainment?) channels

So, for those who claim to run “national” news channels, here are a few pointers I would like to mention,

1. India exists beyond Delhi and Mumbai

   Yes, there are actual voters in places other than New Delhi’s vicinity or Mumbai’s city limits.

2. People can’t eat religion  

   Contrary to popular belief, people don’t survive on religion alone. They have needs—needs that are probably a tad more important.

3. Voters outside metro cities exist, Too  

   Every Indian voter, whether they’re in a big city or a remote village, deserves equal coverage and concern.

4. Economy, environment, healthcare, and more—they are real issues 

   These topics exist. Really. The economy, climate change, hunger, and public health are all part of the complex fabric of people’s lives.

5. Studio debates don’t solve real problems

   Screaming matches from the comfort of a well-lit studio don’t exactly equate to problem-solving for the average citizen.

6. Experts do exist outside political circles  

   Ever considered inviting subject matter experts to talk about these issues? Some of us would appreciate a dose of informed opinion.

This obsession with religion and politics will only go so far. Sooner or later, viewers might just decide they’ve had enough and switch to something a little more, shall we say, relevant?

Sajeev

An unexpected cabinet - Kerala 2021 elections

When the new Kerala cabinet was announced; there was one question in the air - where is K.K.Shailaja? the famous health minister of the previous government.

People expected her to be returned as the health minister. Her leadership during the Nipah outbreak and later on Covid times were exemplary and well appreciated. In fact, she got the largest majority in the last assembly election. Her majority of 60963 is greater than the second-highest majority (the chief minister himself) by more than 10000 votes. There were rumors that she became more famous than the CM itself and she may be axed. Probably people never expected that she will be axed. In the new dispensation, she will be CPI(M)'s whip in the Assembly.  

It is good to give opportunities to different people. At the same time, one should be rewarded for their work; if people reward her then what is the problem for the leadership in digesting it? 

In India, there are always demands for young people to become ministers and occupy other important administrative positions. Unfortunately, what people often overlook is, in this vast over populous country, it will take a lifetime of work to climb from grass-roots politics to reach the highest echelons of Delhi. By this time, most of them will be old. If people are coming up with rules like - ministers cannot be old, or one can only have one term etc. then it actually shut the door in front of many people. Most often those who reach the highest positions in power at a very young age will be son\daughter of existing political heavyweights. Do we really want to reward them in the name of young leadership?

Hence before coming with arbitrary rules of including or excluding people in the ministry people think twice. 

Sajeev

PS: In the new Kerala cabinet except Chief minister, all are new. One can always ask, why not a new chief minister also?

Delhi Election Results - BJP need to move away from Hyper-nationalism and hyper-religionism

Arvind Kejriwal led AAP is going to rule Delhi for another 5 years. Victory of AAP is not unexpected but the scale with which they won is so high that even AAP might not be expecting that much. 

What made this election so uncomfortable for people who believe in India and her progress in 21^st century is hyper-nationalism boosted with hyper-religionism of BJP campaign. 

For a long time, we tried decoupling India with Pakistan in world scene. To an extent we won also. Unfortunately, for last few years, every day tv programs in prime time, election campaigns are doing double work to couple the same again. We hear Pakistan and religion more often than pollution and jobs in Delhi. 

While economy is taking a nosedive; unemployment figures are the highest in four decades; future is looking grim we are getting pumped up with religion and nationalism. 

Another thing which is clear in these elections are, vote banks are slowly disappearing; at least in some states. Congress vote share was high in Lok Sabha elections. However, INC didn't even open an account in assembly elections. At the same time, BJP got Delhi in general elections; people clearly voted for Modi as prime minister, but all assembly elections can't be fought on Modi's popularity. Local leaders need to emerge.

Those who are afraid that hyper nationalism, hyper-religionism and BJPs version of socialism are taking over India; Delhi elections are a breather. Electricity, water, education, health care, economy, jobs etc do matter. 

BJP needs to do an introspection and move away from current campaign style. Branding all opponents as anti-nationals and calling people from other religions as jihadi is not going to work always.

INC need to work double time to bring their house in order. Inter party dirty politics is not going to give them any votes from general public.

For AAP welfarism not backed with a revenue model is not good for the health of state economy.

Sajeev

Money in Politics - Corporate Vs People

In market those who shell out money for buying shares are entitled for dividend. Obviously, those who don't invest won't get anything. Today’s politics is like market only. This strange situation is not limited to India but across the world it is the same. Best examples are oil rich countries. Those countries don't have any dependency on tax revenue, many are not even interested in collecting it. Hence they often blink their eye towards public demands and protests.

Well, let's see who is funding India's political parties. During 2016-17, "just 10 donors contributed over 50 per cent of political donations" as per Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR).

Between FY 2013-14 and 2016-17, 9 registered Electoral Trusts donated a total of 637.54 crore INR to political parties.

Break up is as follows,

During FY 2013-14: 85.37 crore
During FY 2014-15: 177.40 crore
During FY 2015-16: 49.50 crore
During FY 2016-17: 325.27 crore

Above numbers are from registered electoral trusts who submitted data to Election Commission; 14 out of 21 submitted contribution report.

Top 10 donors are (rupees in crores),

1. DLF - 28
2. UPL - 25
3. JSW Energy - 25
4. Piramal Enterprises Ltd - 21.1
5. Suresh Kotak - 18.5
6. Bharti Airtel - 17.005
7. DLF Cyber City - 15
8. Essar Bulk Terminal - 15
9. Ultra Tech Cement - 13
10. Grasim Industries - 13

I strongly believe this trend should be reversed. There should be a small upper limit on individual/single corporate contribution. Loop holes like contribution from shell companies should be restricted. Parties should be forced to get their campaign fund from public. Unless we are not reaching there, democracy will be for the contributors by the political parties off the public.

Sajeev

References
1. Analysis of Contribution Report of Electoral Trusts – FY 2016-17 - ADR

Mahadayi/Mandovi River, Water and Bandh

Mahadayi/Mandovi River. Photo is taken from Wikipedia

Today, its Bandh in Karnataka. The expectation is that even state capital - Bangalore - which is generally free from all bandhs/strikes is going to shut down at least partially. Schools will be closed; transportation services might take a hit; many companies already declared tomorrow as a holiday (many of those who didn't declare tomorrow as holiday asked employees to work from home).

Mahadayi Water Dispute

Reason for this bandh is a river dispute between Goa and Karnataka (Maharashtra is also a party to the dispute). River in question is an interstate one known as Mahadayi (more popularly known as Mandovi outside Karnataka). This river originates from Belaghavi district of Karnataka; after flowing for 29 km she enters Goa and flows another 52 km through Goa before embracing the Arabian Sea at Panjim (Panaji).

What Karnataka demands is a diversion of 7.56 tmc ft water under ‘Kalasa - Banduri Nala’ project by building dams or barrages. This is to fix acute water shortage problems in Gadag, Dharwad and Belagavi districts of Karnataka. This water will flow into Malaprabha River. Goa opposed Karnataka's move and took the dispute to Supreme court, which led to the creation of ‘Mahadayi Water Disputes Tribunal’ in 2010.

2016 July, tribunal's verdict came. It was against Karnataka. Goa’s objections are mainly based on possible damages to ecology and wildlife, but the real fact is state’s fear about dwindling water supplies and meeting future demands after all Mandovi is the lifeline of Goa.

Water Crisis in Northern Karnataka

The problem in Karnataka is, the state is facing acute water crisis in northern areas. Ten northern districts of Karnataka are worst hit. People are migrating to cities in vast numbers as continuous draught ravaged agrarian economy; recent drinking water shortages only worsen the crisis. As per a report on TOI, “According to unofficial estimates, 5% to 10% of the population migrates every year from North Karnataka, even during normal monsoons, but this year the migration is higher by 2%-3%. The reason, officials say, is that drought, coupled with the drinking water crisis, is so widespread that farmers with large holdings of 5-25 acres have also joined migrants, having lost two crops to the drought”

If 2018 monsoon also failed, then it's going to be a catastrophe in Northern Karnataka. By the way, water situation is not good even at the southern tip – Bangalore. Governments are not acting fast enough to resolve the crisis. They often come up with grand schemes like pumping water from one river to another, building grand canals etc. These are only temporary fixes. For this to work, rivers from which you are pumping should have a good supply of water in the first place. It may be so for some years, but human-made damages to river’s catchment area will soon affect that as well. Diverting Yettinahole to east or any other river to eastern areas are not going to fix the problem.

Water is not something which can be manufactured like shoes or cars or mobile phones. What is important is understanding the role of ecology and the need to balance it. Even if Karnataka gets its demanded share, it is not going to fix the issues in the twin cities of Dharward-Hubli. In the same way, even if Goa is successful in opposing the agreement, Mandovi is not going to be there forever. Extensive and unregulated iron ore mining already made considerable damages to Goa's environment.

Do these governments ready to do go for more extensive (but less glamorous) solutions like preserving local lakes (Bangalore have so many lakes even now, unfortunately, many lakes are so polluted that even water catches fire), extensive rainwater harvesting system, recharging groundwater systems, modern irrigation systems, recycling water, solid waste water management etc?

It is equally important for states on both sides of Western Ghats to sit together and hear the scientific opinion on how to preserve whatever left of Western Ghats. At this point, I don't think, governments are ready to walk the talk or even ready to do what has to be done. Instead, are engaging the grand projects like interlinking rivers, which is only postponing the eventual crisis.

Already multiple water wars are taking place in India. 

1. Krishna - Between Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka and Maharashtra
2. Godavari - Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh
3. Narmada - Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Gujarat
4. Cauvery - Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala and Puducherry
5. Vansadhara - Andhra Pradesh and Odisha
6. Ravi & Beas – Sutlej-Yamuna Link Canal- Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh
7. Mullaperiyar - Kerala, Tamil Nadu.

In many disputes, tribunals were set up and verdict also came, even though it took decades. But, there will be a clause for review in every 8 or 10 years. We are going to see a new fight whenever those contracts are up for review.

Grand projects and destruction of Water Systems in Greater Middle East – What Should Not be our Future

For those who only believe in grand schemes should read how water scarcity and destruction of wetlands forced crisis in Western Asian countries; and even the recent street protests in Iran.

The Tweet Trump Could Never Send Tehran - NYT

"Over the past three decades, Iran has built 600 dams.. an average of 20 a year.. to irrigate farms and provide power... Poor planning and 14 years of drought have rendered many of them useless and, in some cases, they have contributed to environmental damage in the semi-arid country...”

"Once some farmers found they no longer had water for their crops.. because aquifers had been overused, or water had been diverted to big agribusinesses ... or too many dams had been built and then warmer temperatures shrank the lakes behind them and nearby wetlands... many of the farmers migrated to the margins of cities in search of employment, food and water...These cities, where employment is scarce, have become hot spots of unrest"

“In the mountains of western Iran, the province of Chaharmahal-Bakhtiari is known for mile-high lagoons, flowing rivers and wetlands that attract thousands of species of migratory birds. But years of diminishing rainfall have shriveled water sources. Conditions worsened, residents say, after Iranian authorities began funneling water 60 miles away to the lowland city of Esfahan"

"Lake Urmia was once a giant saline lake, 87 miles wide...Beginning in the 1990s... started building lots of dams around the lake...Now the lake, once one of the largest in the Middle East, looks more like a gigantic crime scene...Its dried salts now mix with sand, fueling toxic wind storms."

Between 2006 and 2011, some 60 percent of Syria’s landmass was ravaged by the worst drought in the country’s modern history. It came after years of overpumping of aquifers...That drought forced 800,000 to one million Syrian farmers and herders to abandon their land and livestock and move to the edges of Syrian cities and towns, where they had to scrounge for work.... they were among the first to join the revolution against it.

"It was not an accident that the chant in the Egyptian revolution was: “Bread. Freedom. Dignity.”

Conclusion

A diversion will address the problem in short-term; the existential crisis in Northern Karnataka will not be over but only get postponed to a later date.

Sajeev.

Rechristening UPA Schemes; Old Wine in New Bottle with New Labels

An important maxim of Deng was, "It doesn't matter whether a cat is black or white, as long as it catches mice". Well, this maxim is not for Indian politicians. They want everything in India - Roads, Utilities, Bridges, Government Schemes - to be named after them or their political mentors/ideologues. Its not about whether the scheme achieved its objectives but about stamping their name on everything. Whenever I visit home town, I could see Local MLS's name in big font on all flood lights in junctions, bus waiting sheds built using public money.

Politicians want people to remember them for a very long time, if possible forever; but they are neither ready to spend their own money nor raise money (outside government treasury) for that purpose.

You might be thinking what this has to do with UPA/ NDA. Well, there is a bad habit taking root in New Delhi. Current administration is renaming all schemes started by UPA one after other. Relaunching same scheme, with minor modifications, with a new name (name of party ideologues etc.) is not a good habit. If someone wants to make their mark on India's economical story, they can do better execution of old schemes or start new ones with new objectives. What UPA lacked was not ideas but lack of execution efficiency. So, show them that, current administration can do it in a better way. Renaming all schemes is not a good trend; if another administration came to power in Delhi they can rename everything again. In short don't claim another's baby.

Latest scheme getting renamed is, Prime Minister's Rural Development Fellows scheme (PMRDF).

List of name changes under Modi administration,

Sajeev

PS:
1. Deng Xiaoping was top most leader of China from 1978 till his retirement in 1989. He pulled China out of Communism and transformed the country to a market-economy

References
1. Another 'UPA scheme' may be re-christened - TOI
2. Modi Has Merely Renamed 19 Out Of 23 Congress Schemes - The Quint
3. Photo in this article is copied from Twitter.

Constitution Day of India

Just like any other day, Nov 26 also gone. Decades back on this very day, constituent assembly of India adopted the constitution of India. The foundation, from which executive, legislature and judiciary draws power and look for guidance. Our constitution is the biggest in the world and probably the one which underwent largest number of changes. 

It may not be perfect, but numerous sections in that very book empowered Indians to understand and demand for their rights. It is also true that, we often short circuit the book by introducing frequent changes to it and by adding several laws as part of 9th schedule. By the way, 9th schedule was not part of original constitution. This schedule was later added through 1st amendment. Governments over a period, added numerous laws to this section which otherwise won’t survive judicial scrutiny. The book also contains sections which split Indian society midway; like reservation etc. 

Still, constitution of India remains as the foundation of laws in India and guides Indian society. There were, and are, many groups which while enjoying the facilities guaranteed by constitution trying to suppress other’s rights. These forces are there in every country at all time. Hope that our constitution will remain as the guiding light for India in future. At the same time, our bulky constitution also needs to be fine-tuned from time to time without taking away the fundamental rights.

Sajeev

Presidential News OVERDOSE – Please Stop

The problem with lengthy US presidential election is, both print and electronic media across the world would be filled with what each candidate did in every second. Is this required? I don’t think people around the world are so much worried (for one full year) about who is going to rule US for four years. The problem is media think it is THE most important thing in the world for that one year.

As if this is not enough, news outlets are in an overdrive this time. They see everything related to US internal and foreign policies through a prism called Trump. For most of them issues across the world where people live and die hardly matters when comparing with what Trump say or tweets.

I had great respect for US news media outlets; their high-quality journalism and good reporting backed with good evidence collected painstakingly. However, if they are continuing in this way, I don’t think I will have the same respect to them for long. You can criticize Trump, his policies but don’t make that the only news. Journalism is not copy pasting tweets or commenting on other people’s comments – even if it is US president.

Sajeev

Anti-Climax in Goa and Manipur

GOA

This is not something which even the veterans of Goan politics expected after elections. Most of them might have rightly guessed that, no single party would get the majority. A hung assembly was on the cards. 

However, an anti-climax like this were Congress despite have 17 seats pushed towards the opposition benches was a total surprise. Who would have imagined that, failing to nominate a CM candidate immediately is going to cost them five years? By the way, BJP’s current CM and many of his cabinet colleagues lost their seats in this election. 

To get the majority BJP pulled parties (who campaigned against BJP in elections) and crossed the half way mark. What more; they even formed a government!!! All those small party representatives got ministerial positions (I don’t know what else they got). Given enough incentives they may even join Congress.

Goa before election, ruled by BJP

Election Results

Total Seats - 40

Congress - 17

BJP – 13

GFP – 3

MGP- 3

Independent – 3

NCP – 1

In the election BJP lost 8 seats, while Congress gained 8 seats. It is true that, BJP got 32.5% of votes while Congress got 28.4% of votes. But it is not the percentage of votes, but the number of seats in the assembly which matters. 

MANIPUR

Total Seats – 60

Congress – 28

BJP – 21

NPP – 4

NPF – 4

AITMC - 1

LJP – 1

IND – 1

Here too Congress is the largest party. However, BJP with 21 seats suddenly formed the government. 

Media says BJP outfoxed Congress. However, I would rather say, all these political parties continue their habit of outfoxing people who elected them in the first place. What you think?

Sajeev

Blowing Up AirIndia’s Recovery

Not long ago there were too much hue and cry for selling Air India. After all who don't want to sell a company which makes mind blowing losses day after day. Government didn't sell Air India at that time; as a matter of fact there were hardly any suitors.

One argument which often heard along with the demand to shutdown/sell the company was – it was the government which destroyed the company. There is indeed some merit in this argument. If government ran that company like a corporate entity, then AirIndia would have been in a better position. 

That is past, in the end Government intervened and helped AirIndia to come out of the crisis. Company also started implementing plans to reduce costs and improve efficiency. This plan is actually showing some results. 

Now West Bengal CM wants a direct flight between Kolkata and a European City. There is no problem in such a demand. All CMs would like to get better deals for their states. Union Civil Aviation minister can consider that request. No issues. However, can he ask AirIndia to introduce a new plane in that route?

I don't have any problem in Kolkata getting a direct flight to London. But, we need to look into the question of why Airline companies are not introducing a direct flight in the first place. The reason they provide is very simple – the route is not commercially viable. 

# AirIndia itself stopped direct flight between Kolkata and a European city in 2007. Reason -  commercially NOT viable.

# Lufthansa discontinued Kolkata-Frankfurt in 2011.

# British Airways discontinued Kolkata-London in 2008.

# Lufthansa, Germanwings, KLM, AirFrance and Thomson Airways, Jet Airways expressed its inability to CM's request for a direct flight

It is to be noted that this is the situation even after CM went to the extent of completely waiving ATF Tax.

Mamta was demanding a direct plane for some time. However, it was her recent election victory which gave a new life to the request. Assembly elections give her the power to send more people to Rajya Sabha (Council of States) where central government currently don’t have enough numbers to push forward reform bills. Hence government is willing to satisfy some of Mamta's wishes. However, why bleed AirIndia for that? This type of politics may give quick results, but it will break institutions. 

We should not forget that, a direct flight to London is neither a primary right of citizen nor his/her basic need. Forget about basic need, it won’t even qualify under affirmative action.

What West Bengal should focus on is, how to get the state back in industrial map, how to revamp Kolkata port, how to improve literacy rate, how to improve GDP/capita, how to reduce child mortality rate, how to bring industries to the state... so on and so forth. Those actions will give more momentum to the state than a direct flight to London, which hardly much people use but bleed AirIndia.

Sajeev

Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia

Telangana: Demand for forgiving agricultural loans… again!!!

Politics often defy common logic. After all politicians care more about buying hearts (or votes) than earning it. On last Monday, close to 30 legislators were suspended from Telangana assembly for their continuing protests to get a firm commitment from Telangana government for one time loan settlement for farmers. By the way, they announced a state wide bandh on Oct 10.

I know farmers are facing a lot of challenges and many of them are committing suicides because of economic hardships. But is writing off the farm loan every time is the right way to solve things? Most often, along with farm loans many other loans also get disappeared from the books. For capital crisis in agriculture we need to find a solution, not to apply some quick fixes.

I am sure that, if government and our agricultural research centres are not helping Indian farmers to compete with high productivity of Chinese, European and American farmers; if there is not enough cold storage to store their  perishable farm products; if we are not building good distribution networks; if the farmers are not able to bring modern farming methodologies to their field; if they are completely depends on monsoon; if poor farmers have no access to banking channels and depends on loan sharks for capital, our problems are not going to disappear.

Writing off loans is not a solution; it’s a new problem on its own.

Sajeev

Karnataka – Power politics and Horse trading

Karnataka politics is innovative and a model to whole world. One can’t say, for how long one MLA/MLC will be with one party. In between winning an election and forming a government anything can happen. So most of the political parties would pack their MLA/MLC/Councillors off to some resorts in Goa, Kerala etc to save them from the hawkish eyes of powerful and influential horse traders. This time also – after BBMP election – it’s not so different.

After BBMP election BJP became the single largest party with a simple majority (101 seats) in 198 member strong assembly. Congress got 78 and JD(S) got 14.

The problem is when we add non-council members who can vote in BBMP – like MPs, MLAs and MLCs. If we take them in to consideration, then BJP fall short of simple majority by 3.

So what to do? Traditional solution is very simple; pick some councillors from JD(S).

Congress and BJP are doing exactly the same. So what is the best option for JD(S) in this situation? You may think, it’s better for them to support Congress or BJP. But no, JD(S) leadership become wiser over a period of time, especially after Operation Lotus. They did the best possible thing they can do; pack their councillors to some secret resort in Kerala. This is to cut any link they can have from horse traders of both BJP and Congress.

In coming days you can see a lot of political drama in Bangalore (it may even beat ‘Game of Throne’ series). Buying, selling, cheating… anything.

When our leaders of 40’s made India a representative democracy they might not have imagined that horse traders also have a big role in it.

Sajeev

Fight for national Icons: The haves and have-nots

It is interesting to see how political parties are fighting for iconic figures form Freedom and social reformist movements. Was it started with M.K Gandhi (exclusively claimed by Congress)? Probably yes. In earlier days, congress had so many leaders to claim. However, the sudden swipe by BJP is creating ripples everywhere.

First it was Sardar Vallabhai Patel. All of a sudden he became BJP’s popular icon. Then came Vivekananda. They successfully claimed ownership for him as well. I think in between someone tried for ‘Bhagat Singh’ too. Latest ones on BJP’s list are P.V Narasimha Rao and B.R Ambedkar; claim on the later was patented and exclusively used by BSP till this day.

Interesting factor is, Congress woke up recently and now trying to reclaim Ambedkar. Mayavati’s BSP probably stunned to see the new developments. After all, how could BJP and Congress can claim the legacy of Ambedkar?!!! I think Congress is currently working on a plan to stop the outflow of historical figures. Hope that the plan won’t be as leaky as 2G auction.

I think the fight is heating up. That day won’t be far, when Rajaram Mohan Roy and Jyotirao Phule will wake up from their graves, only to see their names on some party list!!!

Sajeev

The Return of Janata Party

An interesting political movement India currently witnessing is the consolidation of political parties to a particular group called Janata Parivar. By the way, there is hardly any ideology which brings them together. As often happens, the one fact which all of them have in common is the fear about the rise of BJP and protecting their base.

I wonder how long the Parivar will stay together. It is altogether different matter, whether Samajwadi Party (SP) – which hardly stands for ‘Samaj’ except in name; Rashtriya Janata Dal – which hardly ever cared about ‘Rashtriyata’; Janata Dal (United) – which showed some hope in the beginning and then went on a path about which one have any idea; Janata Dal (Secular) – which is more about a family and its affairs; Indian National Lokdal (whose leaders are in Jail over Recruitment scam) etc. will come together even for their own good.

What, leaders of these parties failed to understand is, India changed. The country is no longer the one, where they could supress people in the name of caste and religion. When Indians want their country to reach the level of Korea, Singapore and Japan; there is hardly any place for their narrow vision. More than coming together under a different a name, what they need to do is an introspection. Be the agent of modern Indian and try to do something for people.

Sajeev. 

Land is not the main impediment for industrialization Mr Rao, it’s the government

Port of Singapore - This tiny city state is an economic miracle

"We have 5 lakh acres of readily usable land with us. Very shortly, we will be coming with new industrial policy which will be really inspiring. The new state of Telangana requires blessing of people like Ratan Tata. We welcome the corporate and industries from across the country and globe to set up industries here," Telangana CM K Chandrashekhar Rao said.

It is true that, government is the biggest landholder. Still I wonder from where Telangana government got that much land; that also readily usable. However, land is not the major problem in industrialization. If that was the case Singapore (smaller than Bangalore city), Taiwan, Hong Kong etc won’t be present in any economical map.

Telangana really need the blessings of Ratan Tata and other business leaders. But business executives won’t invest in areas suffering the burden of heavy government, insensitive and red tape bureaucracy. Will Telangana be able to offer something different?

Last but not the least, I don’t want to see a land scam in Telangana…

Sajeev

Five lakh acre ready-to-use land available in Telangana: Chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao - TOI

Internet in Russia is facing another challenge

Russian Flag

Isn’t better for Russia to remain connected to rest of the world through internet and be a part of global community? What Russia is going to achieve by going alone? If government fears about western control of internet and information flow, then they have an option to bring in a mechanism where governance will become more transparent. Cutting off Russia from rest of the world, will only stagnate the growth – both business and intellectual.

Earlier also, during the height of Soviet Union Russia achieved much feats in space and missile technologies but not much in electronics and chip design. Cutting internet will not only stop western propaganda (in Russian terms) but interrupt useful information flow as well.

Russia and rest of the world will be a better place if we decide to live together than Russia going alone.

Sajeev

Putin seeking to 'unplug' Russia from the internet: Report - TOI

Dhoti storm finally ended?

Finally Tamil Nadu government introduced a bill to remove all entry restrictions for people wearing dhoties in clubs, hotels, theatres, malls etc. Well, I agree to this bill in principle; people wearing honorable local dresses should be able to access public places.

But, I have doubts about its applicability in private clubs. Clubs may be formed around a common theme. Isn’t it possible for them to mandate strict dress code for their members, which may explicitly forbidden dhoti?

Sajeev.

World Bank and IMF are financial institutions not charity foundations

BRICS leaders in Brazil

People from former communist and socialist (including India) world refer Bretton Wood institutions as some animal who extract blood like leeches. Reason for this particular hatred towards Bretton Wood institutions is due to the strict conditions they impose on countries (borrowers) who are applying for loans.

Let me ask you one question, will any bank would give loan to any individual or institution without making sure that, borrower have sufficient capability to pay it back? What assurance IMF and World Bank have, when they give loans to countries which are on the verge of default? After all it’s the undisciplined economic policies, which brought those countries to the economic cliff in the first place.

Today when I read Samir Saran’s article “Waking up to theBRICS” in 'The Hindu', I suddenly remembered all those accusations hurled against IMF and World Bank. This article is basically in support of New Development Bank proposed by BRICS.  I believe two points mentioned there demand a reply.

Relation between bank and borrower is going to change?

“The NDB’s mission must be to create a business structure where borrowing countries are given greater agency in prioritising the kinds of projects they would want funded. Over a decade, this could become the demonstrator project through which the relationship between donors and recipients, lenders and borrowers, will be rewritten. Hopefully this will be in favour of developing economies and will enable the reimagining of economic pathways.”

Well, I agree on giving more say to borrowing country in prioritizing projects. However, there is world of difference between normal banks giving loans to an individual and World Bank giving loans to sovereign countries. If financial institutions are not insisting on policy terms then what leverage they have? What is the guarantee that countries will move away from the dangerous path? Would India have changed her economic course in 1991, if IMF’s conditions were not there? If a country defaulted on repayment, then World Bank don’t have much chance to get the amount back any time soon. Hence, relationship between bank and borrower won’t undergo any radical change because of New Development Bank. Any bank worth its name will demand security – in the form of change in policies perused by borrower.

GDP in PPP terms

“With around 16 per cent voting share at the World Bank, the U.S. has a de facto veto. Conversely, BRICS, with 40 per cent of the global population and a combined GDP of $24 trillion (PPP), collectively accounts for a mere 13 per cent of the votes at the World Bank.”

Why Indian observers often fall back to GDP in PPP terms rather than looking at real facts? Is it because GDP in PPP terms is in favour of BRICS? It’s time for us to come out of the cocoon and face the real world.

Sajeev.

Sachin, Rekha… it’s better to quit if you can’t attend Parliament

Watching Arnab’s debate on TimesNow about our absentee MPs – especially Sachin and Rekha. I agree with Arnab, if Sachin and Rekha can’t attend parliament it’s better for them to resign. What is point of having them in Parliament; if they are NOT going to participate in debates, voting, using MPLAD funds?

This disease is not limited to Sachin and Rekha. Many of our MPs are MPs in name only. They hardly go to Parliament, hardly speak to people from their constituency, hardly participate in debate, hardly use MPLAD funds for the development of their constituency, hardly suggest any modifications for any bill…

You may be thinking after all what is happening in Parliament. Who is actually participating in debate? other than walkout and making noises what else going on in parliament? Well that is not fully true, our parliament too functions sometimes. What we need is MPs who are atleast committed to come to parliament and participate in representative democracy.

Sajeev.