The recent violence in Manipur has brought great tragedy and heartbreak to the people of the region. Reports suggest that the violence has resulted in loss of life, injury, and destruction of property. It’s important to approach this issue with care and sensitivity, recognizing that the underlying factors leading to the violence may be complex and multifaceted. Despite the complexity, we must not overlook the immediate needs of those affected and strive to provide support and assistance.
In the blistering summer of 1980s Punjab, where each sunrise threatened another ambush and every grain of soil seemed soaked in unrest, a silent battle unfolded—not with rifles, but with resolve. A battle not of soldiers alone, but of engineers, villagers, and bureaucrats who dared to challenge both nature and the enemy. This is the story of the Punjab Border Fencing Project—India’s unsung feat of steel and spirit that turned a fragile line into an unshakable wall. Watch it here.
The Blood-Stained Line
India stood on the brink of freedom, and yet, the birth of a new nation was marred by the violence of partition. A man named Cyril Radcliffe, unfamiliar with India’s land and soul, drew a line that would later bleed for decades. That line, now called the Punjab border, would soon become the epicenter of militant infiltration and ideological war.
Post-Independence, Pakistan’s strategic defeat in conventional wars gave rise to a new, more insidious approach—supporting militancy and separatist movements across the border. Smuggled weapons, narcotics, and ideological propaganda flowed freely through the porous frontier, transforming Punjab into a battleground cloaked in smoke and sorrow.
By the early 1980s, the golden fields of Punjab had turned red. Bus massacres, temple takeovers, and the infamous Operation Blue Star left scars not only on the state but on the nation’s conscience.
The Suicide Mission No One Wanted
Against this backdrop of terror and tension, the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) was tasked with an almost suicidal mission—fortify the Indo-Pak border.
There were no satellites, no drones, no high-tech surveying equipment. What they had was sheer grit. Working from a make-shift office that lacked even chairs and desks, engineers under the leadership of BB Makkar carried forward an operation that had no blueprint, no precedent, and absolutely no room for error.
They didn’t just build fences; they built hope.
A Wall of Sacrifice
Villagers donated their lands willingly, fully aware they were living in the crosshairs of militants. CPWD officials worked around the clock—often staying in bomb-proof bunkers, subsisting on bare minimums. Every action had to be discreet; even casual conversations with drivers could risk lives if overheard by the wrong ears.
But what perhaps speaks volumes of the project’s success is its frugality. This grand national shield was built at a cost of merely 1,700 Rupees per meter—a marvel in both execution and economy.
Yet, tragedy was never far. In 1988, devastating floods destroyed the first phase of fencing. Critics pounced. Accusations of corruption and mismanagement flooded the headlines. But those who had bled in the sun to raise that fence stood undeterred. CPWD treated the setback not as a defeat, but as a challenge—to build again, this time stronger.
A Promise Kept in Silence
The mission never received headlines. There was no parade for the engineers, no medals for the villagers, no historic speeches in their honor. Yet the fence stood, unwavering. It became more than metal and barbed wire; it became a promise—that India’s borders may be threatened, but they will never be breached.
The fencing slowed infiltration. It throttled arms smuggling. And most importantly, it forced the enemy to rethink its strategy.
In the heart of this narrative stood leaders who rose above politics—like Atal Bihari Vajpayee—who, beyond all party lines, supported what was right for the country. His behind-the-scenes guidance was a crucial pillar in ensuring the project did not collapse under bureaucratic weight or political backlash.
The Unacknowledged Patriots
Today, we speak of a secure Punjab. Of a border that stands strong. Of a nation that sleeps safer. But we seldom remember the ones who built that strength, inch by inch, under the shadow of sniper rifles and insurgent threats.
This fence was not just steel—it was sweat, soul, and sacrifice.
It is time we remember the unnamed engineers, the tireless laborers, the fearless villagers, and the visionary leaders who made it happen. Their story isn’t just history—it’s a reminder. That sometimes, the greatest battles are fought not with weapons, but with willpower.
And perhaps, as we walk along the secure borderlines of our nation today, we owe them not just a salute—but our eternal gratitude.
Indian Comicverse: A Nostalgic Revival at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2025
The New Delhi World Book Fair 2025 saw a vibrant revival of Indian comics, blending nostalgia with modern storytelling. Iconic publishers showcased stunning visuals and gripping narratives, marking a new golden age.
The New Delhi World Book Fair 2025, hosted at the grand Bharat Mandapam from February 1 to February 9, was a spectacular celebration of literature, art, and storytelling. This year, the event took on a special aura as the Indian comic book industry made a resounding comeback, rekindling the magic of illustrated storytelling. The fair was an electrifying blend of nostalgia and innovation, as both legendary pioneers and fresh new creators showcased their work, proving that Indian comics are entering a new golden age.
The Return of Indian Comics: A Journey Through Time
For many, names like Suppandi, Nagraj, Bankelal, Cheeku-Meeku, and Amar Chitra Katha’s legendary epics evoke a wave of childhood nostalgia. These comics, once household favorites through the ’80s and ’90s, experienced a sharp decline with the rise of video games, internet culture, and smartphones.
“The first decline happened in the ’90s with the arrival of VCRs and cassette tapes, which offered an alternative to comics and pulp fiction novels. The second major decline came after 2010, when smartphones took over, making digital content easily accessible and changing reading habits entirely,” explained an industry expert at the event. However, the industry has been making a powerful resurgence, thanks to new-age Indian graphic novelists and initiatives like the Comics Creator Championship, Comic Con, and WAVES.
The global comic book industry, valued at $14.69 billion in 2021, is projected to reach $21.37 billion by 2029, and India is riding this wave of growth with renewed enthusiasm. At this year’s fair, the stalls featuring illustrated editions of the Hanuman Chalisa, Mahabharata retellings, and stories of Indian war heroes drew massive crowds. Publishers like Amar Chitra Katha, Raj Comics, and Campfire Graphic Novels made a huge impact with their stunning visuals and gripping storytelling.
The Amar Chitra Katha stall was a hotspot at the fair, with its collection of religious epics, historical legends, and bestsellers like Tinkle and Suppandi. The brand has expanded into new territories, even covering contemporary stories like Mann Ki Baat—a 14-volume series available in 12 languages, created in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture. This fusion of old and new has made Amar Chitra Katha a key player in keeping traditional stories alive for newer generations.
Founded in 1986, Raj Comics has been a staple in Indian pop culture with its iconic superheroes like Nagraj, Dhruva, and Doga. Over the years, Raj Comics has consistently evolved with technology, from digital coloring in the 2000s to the growing popularity of international comics in the 2010s. “Indian comics today can compete with Marvel when it comes to illustrations,” said a Raj Comics representative. As they transition into film adaptations, these Indian superheroes are set to reach an even larger audience.
Cinemics has made a name for itself by publishing a diverse range of comics, spanning horror, comedy, kids’ stories, suspense thrillers, murder mysteries, and even time-travel adventures. Most notably, they have brought Chandrakanta to life in a graphic format for the first time, bridging classic literature with modern storytelling.
Ektara’s approach to publishing is deeply rooted in India’s artistic heritage. Their beautifully illustrated comics and graphic novels celebrate the country’s traditional art forms. “We don’t aim to teach a language or push an agenda—we simply want people to appreciate history and literature through exquisite art and storytelling,” said an Ektara representative.
Biplob World stood out as an eco-conscious publisher, dedicated to creating engaging stories that educate children about the environment. “There’s a Biplob within each of us. The solutions to our problems don’t come from an external superhero; they lie within us,” explained co-founder Abhishek. Their comics inspire young readers to care for nature through interactive storytelling.
Ashwatha Tree’s mission is to instill a sense of pride in Indian traditions and culture among children. Their books cover Indian festivals, folklore, and historical narratives, ensuring that these cultural treasures are not lost with time. “If we introduce children to these stories at a young age, they will carry these values forward,” said the founder.
Campfire Graphic Novels has redefined illustrated literature by creating high-quality graphic novels on history, mythology, and biographies. From Indian epics like Draupadi and Karna to global figures like Gandhi and Nelson Mandela, their well-researched and authentic art has gained worldwide recognition. “Our books are available in over 40 international languages, from Spanish to Arabic,” shared a Campfire spokesperson.
AAN Publications is dedicated to telling the stories of India’s real-life heroes—soldiers, warriors, and unsung defenders of the nation. “We bring forward the stories of those who have sacrificed for the country but remain unknown to most Indians,” said a passionate representative. Their publications emphasize patriotism, making them a standout presence at the fair.
A New Era for Indian Comics
The 2025 New Delhi World Book Fair proved that Indian comics are back with a vengeance. The fusion of nostalgia with cutting-edge storytelling and breathtaking artwork is breathing new life into the industry. From mythology and history to superheroes and social themes, Indian comics are more diverse and engaging than ever before.
This event was a testament to how illustrated storytelling is evolving, captivating audiences old and new. As publishers continue to innovate and adapt, the Indian comic book industry is set to soar, carving out its place on the global stage.
Did you attend NDWBF 2025? What’s your favorite Indian comic? Let us know in the comments and stay tuned for more exciting updates from INSIGHT!
India considers its rivers sacred. In Hinduism some are even personified as goddesses. Yet, paradoxically, these revered rivers often bear the brunt of abuse and pollution. Vital to the rise of civilizations, rivers are lifelines without which cities cannot thrive.
In this documentary we explore the tale of two rivers, Sabarmati and Yamuna both are lifelines of their respective cities, yet they stand as stark opposites. Life resides on the banks of both the rivers but people of Yamuna breathe poison while Sabarmati riverfront Ahmedabad provides a haven for leisure, economic activities, and community life.
The Sabarmati Riverfront showcases a governance model that marries urbanization with environmental preservation. Often mistaken as the capital of Gujarat, Ahmedabad stands as a stellar example of city planning and sustainable development. For decades, the Sabarmati was a neglected and polluted river. However, the Gujarat government decided to turn the tide.
It decided to use the 100 crore amount from the River conservation program to clean the Sabarmati. It installed pumping stations and sewage treatment plant. This gave the people of Gujarat hope. Soon the Sabarmati riverfront development project was passed and a special purpose vehicle called the Sabarmati Riverfront Development Corporation limited. The river was on its way for a makeover. Soon strategies for flood protection, bank protection, and river training were formulated. On both the banks of the river diaphragm walls were built to sustain floods and the project can sustain levels of 4.75 lac cusecs without spillage into the city.
In stark contrast, the Yamuna, personified as the goddess Yami, remains murky, toxic, and heavily polluted. It supplies 70% of Delhi’s water, yet the 22-kilometer urban stretch between the Wazirabad Barrage and Okhla Barrage—just 2% of its total length—accounts for nearly 80% of the river’s pollution. Every winter, the Yamuna is blanketed in toxic froth, mockingly referred to as the “famous bubble bath” provided by the Delhi government.
Crores of rupees have been invested in cleaning the Yamuna, involving Japan international banks, various plans, and strategies, yet the efforts appear to yield no significant results. The Government of Japan provided loan assistance for implementation of YAP in December-1990. YAP was formally launched in 1993, now called as YAP phase I. The total cost of YAP I along with the additional package was INR 7.32 billion between 1993 and 2003. Subsequently, under YAP II, INR 6.24 billion was allocated between 2004 and 2011, but the project failed to meet its deadlines. In 2019, YAP III was launched as part of the Namami Gange project. Nearly INR 6,856.91 crore was spent over five years, from 2017-21. In 2023, the Delhi government allocated an additional INR1,028 crore for cleaning the Yamuna, bringing the total to INR 3,139 crore. The Delhi government had received a fund of INR 618.50 crore under the Yamuna Action Plan III from the Central government and had spent around INR 687 crore for cleaning the Yamuna. Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation in December 2018 released a sum of INR 2,361.08 crore to the Delhi government for 11 projects for cleaning the Yamuna.
The mathematics of the Sabarmati Riverfront development project is fairly simple and it isn’t merely about the beautification of the river. It is planned to sustain business, economics, people-centric activities, and further development of the city. The project was planned to self-finance. Its success lies behind the transparent approach of the government and SRFDL. Revenue of around INR 450 crore was generated from the sale of reclaimed land. This covered the initial 5 yea₹ of projected construction cost of INR 361 crore. The initial phase, which opened in August 2012, had a cost of INR 1,400 crore (US$160 million) as of November 2019. The second phase, covering 5.5 km on both banks, was approved in 2020 with an initial budget of INR 850 crore. The plan is to extend this to the capital Gandhinagar—26.65 km in multiple phases over the next 15 years.
Gujarat Model made Narendra Modi the 14th Prime minister of India and he has been the prime minister for three consecutive terms. It is a hard to digest pill for many politicians. It truly separates politics from governance and has made Gujarat one of most liveable cities of India. Sabarmati Riverfront development project is an important and beautiful part of the same model. This project is unique because it truly socialized a river, a historic river, which through decades of neglect and decay, had become a pathetic caricature of a river. It is high time that Delhi government learns the difference between politics and governance and utilise money being pumped into the Yamuna river.
In contrast, the Sabarmati Riverfront Project was strategically planned to be self-financing. Revenue of INR 450 crore was generated from the sale of reclaimed land, covering the initial five years of construction costs (INR 361 crore). The first phase, inaugurated in 2012, cost INR 1,400 crore. The second phase, approved in 2020, had an initial budget of INR 850 crore and aimed to extend the riverfront by 5.5 km. Future plans include extending the project to Gandhinagar—26.65 km in multiple phases over 15 years.
The Sabarmati Riverfront epitomizes the Gujarat Model of governance, which separates politics from administration. This model catapulted Narendra Modi to the position of India’s 14th Prime Minister, a role he has held for three consecutive terms. While critics may find this difficult to accept, the Gujarat Model’s focus on transparent governance and sustainable urban development has made Ahmedabad one of India’s most livable cities.
The Sabarmati Riverfront Project exemplifies how a neglected river was revitalized into a thriving social and economic hub. It is high time the Delhi government draws lessons from this approach, moving beyond political rhetoric to effectively utilize the resources allocated for the Yamuna. Clean rivers are not just a matter of infrastructure but a reflection of governance that prioritizes people over politics.
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