Category: articles

India, rising power demand and the ‘hydrogen factor’ 

India, rising power demand and the ‘hydrogen factor’ India’s journey towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 involves massive electrification of energy use and the deployment of low-carbon technologies. A significant focus is now placed on nuclear energy expansion and green/low-carbon hydrogen production as alternatives to fossil fuels in both power generation and industrial applications. Key Highlights: Net-Zero and Electrification: Moving toward a net-zero economy requires electrification of industries currently dependent on fossil fuels — especially steel, fertilizer, and chemical industries. Hydrogen (particularly green/low-carbon hydrogen) is a key substitute molecule in industrial processes. India’s Rising Power Demand: To meet projected electricity…

Soyuz Spacecraft

Soyuz Spacecraft A Soyuz spacecraft, adorned to commemorate the 80th anniversary of World War II’s conclusion, departed from Kazakhstan’s Baikonur Cosmodrome recently, transporting an American and two Russians to the International Space Station (ISS). About Soyuz Spacecraft The Soyuz spacecraft is a Russian (formerly Soviet) spacecraft that has been used since the 1960s to transport astronauts and cosmonauts to and from space. The Soyuz programme is the longest operational human spacecraft programme in the history of space exploration. The first crewed flight into space was on 23 April 1967. Soyuz means “union” in Russian. Although they were conceived by the…

Shaping a future-ready workforce

Shaping a future-ready workforce The article by P. John J. Kennedy examines India’s workforce preparedness in light of the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report (2025) and the QS World Future Skills Index. It highlights India’s opportunities and challenges in aligning its education system and skill development with the rapidly evolving global job market. Key Insights: Drivers of Global Labour Market Transformation: Technological Advancements & Digital Access – Cited by 60% of employers as major future job market drivers. Economic Uncertainties & Job Displacement – 50% of employers expect economic pressures to impact employment structures. Green Transition & Climate…

The other space race — the geopolitics of satellite net

The other space race — the geopolitics of satellite net The growing adoption of satellite-based internet services such as SpaceX’s Starlink marks a shift in global connectivity infrastructure — with deep implications for national sovereignty, economic dependency, and geopolitical alignment. India’s collaboration with private players like SpaceX, through Airtel and Jio, raises critical questions about balancing technological pragmatism with strategic autonomy in the era of the New Space Race. India and Starlink India’s digital divide remains stark, especially in remote and rural areas where fiber optic cables and cell towers are absent. Starlink, a low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet constellation…

Colossal wastage that is food for thought

Colossal wastage that is food for thought The United Nations Environment Programme’s Food Waste Index Report (FWIR) 2024 highlights a pressing global issue: 1.05 billion tonnes of food wasted in 2022, with India ranking second only to China. This problem is not just about resource mismanagement; it has severe economic, environmental, and social implications. Key analysis Understanding Food Wastage and Loss Food Wastage: Includes edible and inedible parts discarded from manufacturing, retail, restaurants, and households. Food Loss: Happens at earlier stages due to poor storage, transportation, and handling. India’s Per Capita Household Food Waste: 55 kg per year (compared to…

India’s marginalised Parliament in budgetary affairs

India’s marginalised Parliament in budgetary affairs A national budget is far more than a mere financial statement; it is a reflection of a country’s economic vision, governance philosophy, and policy priorities. In democratic systems, the principle of parliamentary control over public finance is fundamental, ensuring fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability. However, in India, the role of Parliament in shaping the Budget remains minimal, with an executive-driven process that sidelines legislators. To rectify this imbalance, critical institutional reforms, such as pre-Budget discussions and the establishment of a Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO), must be implemented to enhance legislative oversight and ensure a…

The challenges of public health education in India

The challenges of public health education in India Public health plays a crucial role in shaping a nation’s healthcare system and overall well-being. The Indian Constitution, under Article 47, mandates the state to improve public health. However, challenges such as lack of standardized training, inadequate practical exposure, and limited job opportunities hinder the sector’s growth. A recent development impacting public health education is the United States’ decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) and reduce USAID funding, affecting health programs in low- and middle-income countries. While India is not heavily reliant on international aid (which forms only 1%…

An Equitable Future for Women in Science in India

An Equitable Future for Women in Science in India Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) face educational, cultural, and systemic barriers that hinder their participation and career growth. Despite India’s scientific advancements, gender disparity in STEM remains a pressing issue. Key Challenges Faced by Women in STEM: Early Educational Barriers & Societal Norms Limited access to quality STEM education in rural areas. Gender norms discourage girls from pursuing science-related careers. Lack of encouragement from families, educators, and peers. Workplace Challenges & Gender Stereotypes Women face hiring and promotion biases, limiting their career progression. Underrepresentation in leadership roles affects…

Human smuggling must engage Parliament’s attention

Human smuggling must engage Parliament’s attention The article highlights the plight of Indians deported from the U.S., facing inhumane treatment and humiliation. It underscores the broader problem of human smuggling and irregular migration from India. Plight of Deported Indians Many Indians who are deported from other countries face inhumane treatment. They are often shackled, handcuffed, and humiliated before being sent back. Some illegal immigrants from India have been abandoned in dangerous situations, such as clearing ammunition fields in Iraq. Growing Problem of Irregular Migration Every year, thousands of young Indians attempt illegal migration, also known as “irregular migration.” This activity…

A success story like Amul

A success story like Amul India’s fruits and vegetables (F&V) sector is growing rapidly but remains fragmented, leading to high post-harvest losses and low farmer earnings, highlighting the need for structured value chains and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) to replicate the success of India’s dairy sector. Growth of India’s Fruits and Vegetables Sector India’s fruits and vegetables (F&V) sector is expanding at a faster pace than cereals, contributing nearly 30% to the value of crop agriculture. Besides being more nutritious, it has the potential to enhance farmers’ incomes signicantly. However, the sector lacks the necessary policy attention and institutional support…