Courtesy: Press Information Bureau
The government, knowing well what the markets wanted, ensured that there were no surprises for the 2013-14 budget by forecasting a fiscal deficit of 4.8%. A closer look at the math, however, reveals a different story.
Courtesy: Election Commission of Pakistan
Pakistan’s Chief Election Commissioner, Fakhruddin G. Ebrahim, faces a host of challenges as he oversees the transition of the country’s first civilian government to complete its full five-year term. Will he be able to overcome the hurdles and ensure the free and fair polls Pakistan has so far been deprived of?
The experience between the people of Myanmar’s Chin Hills and of Mizoram’s Lushai Hills shows that increased cross-border interaction has influenced the economic situation on both sides of the border. Sanjay Pulipaka blogs about the challenges and opportunities that come with increased exchanges across the border.
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The Arab uprisings show no sign of closure, and have become amorphous. While New Delhi has so far been immunised from the political and religious dimensions of the uprisings, the rise of political Islam, Islamic governance, and continuing instability will impact India.
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D. P. Satish in his review of Rahul Pandita’s latest book writes that it is a bold attempt at voicing despair about a nation that mouths lofty platitudes but does little to protect its persecuted communities.
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India’s relations with Islamic nations, many of which are members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), have become even more prolific over the last decade. While India does not visualise becoming a member of a religious international body, many reasons militate against our formally joining the OIC.
Courtesy: Kukster/Flickr
‘Sikkimisation’ is a term often used by the Chinese and Nepalese politicians to refer to India's purported Himalayan expansionism. However, Sikkim's economy has set an example that India's Himalayan neighbours would do well to follow, rather than deride
In December, massive protests erupted in India following the brutal gang rape of the 23-year old student in New Delhi. The case fuelled hopes of a much-needed change in the country’s outlook towards violence against women. More significantly, however, will the mindset towards rape change? Nandini Deo blogs.
Courtesy: WikimediaCommons
Pakistan’s recent violation of the ceasefire, by killing two Indian soldiers and beheading one of them, has triggered knee-jerk reactions by the government and armed forces, media frenzy, and public outcry. What makes this 60-year old problem tough to resolve, and how can those obstacles be overcome?
Courtesy: lecercle/Flickr
The Armed Forces Special Powers Act, introduced decades ago in India’s northeastern states and Kashmir to control militancy and turbulence, often has undemocratic side-effects. By the government’s own account, the situation in the northeast has improved. Why is the Act still in place, despite calls for a repeal?