SAARC Courtesy:
2 March 2015

An Indian democracy template for SAARC?

Indian foreign secretary S. Jaishankar’s visit to SAARC countries from March 1 is an opportunity to examine the political trajectories in the region. While democracy in some countries like Sri Lanka is on an upswing, in others, like Bangladesh, it is in decline. With China’s growing economic influence in South Asia, can Indian democracy be an effective counterpoint?

Philippine peace Courtesy: khabrsoutheastasia
8 January 2015

War and Peace

The Islamic State’s violence dominated 2014’s news headlines, masking important non-violent initiatives around the world. But endeavors for peaceful solutions are thriving, and India, with its legacy of a non-violent freedom struggle, must contribute to this process as a counter-force against the advocates of violence

yoga Courtesy: wikimedia\commons
18 December 2014

An International Day of Yoga

The adoption of June 21 as the International Yoga Day by the United Nations signifies the support that recent diplomatic efforts of the government have received on the world stage. The scientific community now needs to produce data and research on the potential scientific value of yoga

Petrol Pump_delhi Courtesy: http://photodivision.gov.in/
4 December 2014

Why oil won’t worry India in 2015

Last week, petroleum prices reached a five-year low, and the fall is likely to last as new production and alternative sources enter the market. India, which has a huge petroleum products bill, now has a chance to shock-proof its economy, diversify dependence away from West Asia, and become energy-efficient

Modi with Sharif_SAARC Courtesy: MEA/Government of India
1 December 2014

Can SAARC succeed despite itself?

The recent SAARC Summit was once again derailed by India-Pakistan dissonances. Is it time for India to look beyond this collective? Or are there ways to overcome the distrust and address border issues, build institutions to implement common goals, and create an economic union of confident democracies?

15267919794_c437878c2b_z (1) Courtesy: MEA
28 November 2014

SAARC debriefing

The 18th SAARC Summit held in Nepal concluded on November 27 with the release of the Kathmandu Declaration. Did the summit live up to its expectations? Was concrete progress made, and if so in which areas? Where is SAARC heading now? Gateway House asks and answers five questions on the outcome of the summit