Delhi – Insight https://oninsight.in Inspiring change through insight Wed, 14 May 2025 09:40:06 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.1 Operation Sindoor: India’s Swift Retaliation and the Unfinished War on Terror https://oninsight.in/2025/05/14/operation-sindoor-indias-swift-retaliation-and-the-unfinished-war-on-terror/ https://oninsight.in/2025/05/14/operation-sindoor-indias-swift-retaliation-and-the-unfinished-war-on-terror/?noamp=mobile#respond Wed, 14 May 2025 09:40:03 +0000 https://oninsight.in/?p=889  The Pahalgam Massacre That Shook a Nation

On April 22, 2025, the idyllic town of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir was shattered by a brutal terrorist attack. Militants affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) opened fire in a crowded market, killing 26 civilians—tourists, hotel workers, pony owners—people with dreams and families, now lost forever. The tragedy didn’t just take lives; it tore through the soul of a grieving nation.

The massacre marked a breaking point. What followed was not just a military response, but a deeply emotional reckoning—Operation Sindoor. The name “Sindoor” was carefully chosen. Rooted in the ancient Sindhu River that flows through both India and Pakistan, the word evokes a shared history, but also the deep divide created by partition. In Indian tradition, sindoor (vermilion) symbolizes sacrifice, protection, and the promise of resilience. The operation was India’s vow: never again to allow such bloodshed to go unanswered.

Day 1 – May 7: A Night of Retribution

At 1:05 AM on May 7, India launched a precise and powerful air campaign. Rafale jets, flying under the cover of darkness, crossed into Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), striking nine terror camps in Bahawalpur, Muridke, Balakot, Manshera, and Muzaffarabad. In just 25 minutes, 70 militants—including JeM commander Abdul Rauf Azhar—were eliminated.

These strikes were more than military action. They were a message to every Indian who had lost someone in Pahalgam: your pain has not been forgotten. It was a declaration that India would no longer wait for justice—it would deliver it.

Amid the tactical success, Pakistan’s economic vulnerabilities began to surface. The country’s fiscal deficit widened, and its foreign exchange reserves dipped dangerously low. A war of attrition was not something Pakistan could afford.

Day 2 – May 8: Escalation on the Ground and at Sea

On the second day, the Line of Control (LoC) ignited. Pakistani forces shelled Indian posts in Uri, Poonch, and Kargil. India responded with disciplined yet forceful counter-fire. Each shell fired carried the weight of years of hostility and the agony of fresh loss.

Simultaneously, the Indian Navy deployed the INS Vikrant near Pakistani waters in the Arabian Sea. The message was unambiguous: India was prepared to fight across every domain—land, air, and sea.

Day 3 – May 9: The Diplomacy Gap and a Ceasefire in Doubt

As global leaders scrambled to de-escalate tensions, backchannel diplomacy intensified. Countries like the United States, France, and the UAE urged restraint. India, having met its military objectives, signaled openness to a halt in operations—but not an official ceasefire. India’s stance was conditional: Pakistan had to act decisively against terror groups operating on its soil.

That same day, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved a $1 billion disbursement to Pakistan under a $7 billion bailout plan. In India, this raised red flags. Could these funds, meant to stabilize a crumbling economy, be diverted to further military buildup or terrorism?

By evening, hopes of calm were dashed. Pakistan violated the informal truce by resuming artillery fire along the LoC. It became clear: though Operation Sindoor’s initial military phase had concluded, peace was still a distant dream.

The Ceasefire Question: Was It Ever Real?

Contrary to some reports, India did not formally announce a ceasefire. It had paused active military operations after Day 3, but remained on high alert. Pakistan, on the other hand, publicly acknowledged a desire for de-escalation—yet its continued shelling cast doubt on the sincerity of that intent. The ceasefire, in essence, existed more on paper and in diplomatic halls than in reality.

Conclusion: The Fire That Still Burns

Operation Sindoor was not merely about missiles and air raids—it was about memory, mourning, and justice. It reminded the world that India’s patience has limits, and its commitment to protect its citizens is absolute. But it also exposed the fragile nature of peace in the subcontinent.

For Pakistan, the economic burden grows heavier. The IMF relief is a bandage on a deeper wound—a faltering economy strained further by military ambitions and global mistrust.

And for India, while the strikes brought a measure of justice, they also reopened old wounds. The families of Pahalgam’s victims may find some solace, but true peace remains elusive. Operation Sindoor may have ended militarily, but emotionally, for many, it continues. The cost of terrorism, once again, has been counted in lives lost, dreams broken, and a nation’s resolve rekindled.

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Waqf Amendment Bill 2025: A Much-Needed Reform or Just Another Eyewash? https://oninsight.in/2025/04/25/waqf-amendment-bill-2025-a-much-needed-reform-or-just-another-eyewash/ https://oninsight.in/2025/04/25/waqf-amendment-bill-2025-a-much-needed-reform-or-just-another-eyewash/?noamp=mobile#respond Fri, 25 Apr 2025 15:27:14 +0000 https://oninsight.in/?p=881 Meet Deepak Bhai Patel and Dharmendra Singh. In their housing society lived a man named Ansari, who initially struggled financially and took small loans from fellow residents to purchase a home. For years, his family lived peacefully there—friendly, respected, even raising a child. But what unfolded later would leave the entire society in shock and confusion.

As time passed, Ansari repaid the society members using money borrowed from elsewhere. Slowly, strangers started visiting his home regularly for namaz and other religious activities. During the COVID lockdown in 2020, Ansari sold his house and moved away—but the visitors didn’t stop. In fact, they increased. People kept gathering to offer prayers, even when social gatherings were legally restricted. When society members investigated, they discovered something baffling: the house had been declared Waqf property, without any notice or prior consent. The entire society was stunned. “What is Waqf, and how can a private house be suddenly claimed in the name of religion?” they asked.

What Is Waqf?

Waqf, in Islamic tradition, refers to a permanent charitable endowment—essentially a donation made in the name of Allah. Once a property is declared as Waqf, its ownership is considered to be with God and cannot be sold, gifted, or inherited. The donor is called waqif, and the caretaker is called mutawalli. It’s a form of Sadaqah-e-Jaariyah—a charity that keeps benefitting others indefinitely.

In India, the first historical record of Waqf dates back to Muhammad Ghori, who allocated land to support mosques, setting a model of mosque-land pairing that spread over time. During British rule, Waqf went through critical shifts:

  • 1828: Land Resumption Act imposed taxes on Waqf lands.
  • 1857: Post-revolt, taxes were removed to maintain peace.
  • 1864: Kazee Act transferred legal authority from Qazis to British judges, weakening the Shariah link.
  • Land Acquisition Act: Allowed British government to acquire Waqf lands, shaking Waqf’s autonomy.

How the Legal Framework Evolved

  • 1923: Mussulman Wakf Act gave Waqf its first formal legal identity.
  • 1954: Indian Parliament passed the Waqf Act, largely built on British-era provisions. Each sect got its own Waqf Board with full control over Waqf properties—even if the donor was non-Muslim, the funds had to be used solely for Islamic purposes.
  • Most controversial provision: Waqf by user—if a property is used for Islamic purposes for a long time without owner objection, it can be automatically deemed Waqf.

This is exactly what happened in Deepak Patel’s society—a private residence used informally for religious purposes was unilaterally claimed as Waqf, with no notice to the actual owners or the society.

A System Ripe for Misuse

Over the years, Waqf Boards have been marred by countless scandals:

  • In Bangalore, the ex-CEO of the Waqf Board was accused of embezzling 4 crore rupees.
  • In Saharanpur, revenue from 183 bigha of land is missing.
  • In Delhi, the AAP government faced allegations of helping misuse Waqf property worth over 100 crore rupees.
  • Pune’s 7.7 crore rupees scam led to ED arrests.
  • In Assam, Waqf land was sold illegally for profit, with no board action taken.

Even religious minorities like Christians in Kerala have faced arbitrary Waqf claims. In Munambam, over 600 families were shocked when Waqf claimed their land. The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India has publicly supported the recent Waqf reforms, indicating the extent of cross-community concern.

Waqf Amendment Bill 2025: What’s New?

The newly passed Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025 marks a turning point. After multiple failed attempts and cosmetic amendments, this bill introduces serious reforms:

  1. Transparency and Digitisation: Mandatory online registration of all Waqf properties.
  2. Inclusivity: Reserved seats for women and non-Muslims on Waqf Boards.
  3. Judicial Oversight: Earlier, Waqf Tribunal decisions were “final”; now, they can be challenged in court.
  4. Preventing Illegal Encroachments: Stronger legal provisions to stop property grab in the name of Waqf.
  5. Focus on Marginalized Muslims: Special measures to ensure that benefits reach backward and poor sections within the Muslim community.

Why It Matters

India’s Waqf estates are worth over 1.2 lakh crore rupees—but they generate just ₹163 crore in revenue. With proper management, this figure could touch 12,000 crore rupees annually, significantly uplifting underprivileged Muslims. Instead, the system remained plagued by fraud, mismanagement, and religious misuse.

Unlike secular trusts and temples—whose finances are often under state control—Waqf has operated with unchecked powers. This asymmetry has long raised questions of fairness and accountability.

Conclusion

The Waqf Amendment Bill 2025 doesn’t just tweak the law—it rebalances it. It’s an attempt to restore public trust, ensure fair treatment of all religious communities, and protect individuals like Deepak Patel from waking up to find their homes no longer belong to them. Whether this bill truly reforms the Waqf structure or becomes another missed opportunity depends on one thing: implementation.

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Self-Medication Surge During COVID: Amoxicillin Misuse and the AMR Crisis https://oninsight.in/2025/04/19/self-medication-surge-during-covid-amoxicillin-misuse-and-the-amr-crisis/ https://oninsight.in/2025/04/19/self-medication-surge-during-covid-amoxicillin-misuse-and-the-amr-crisis/?noamp=mobile#respond Sat, 19 Apr 2025 06:48:22 +0000 https://oninsight.in/?p=875 Evidence from the WHO Global Clinical Platform for COVID-19, based on anonymized data of 450,000 patients collected over three years (2020–2023), points to an alarming worldwide trend: excessive use of antibiotics throughout the COVID-19 pandemic might have rapidly spurred the insidious development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Although no more than 8% of COVID-19 hospitalized patients presented confirmed bacterial co-infections for antibiotic treatment, about 75% were given antibiotics—many of them as a precautionary option. This is evidence of broad over prescription throughout the pandemic.

Variation in the use of antibiotics also existed by geographical area. The rate was 33% of patients with COVID-19 treated with antibiotics in the Western Pacific Region, 83% in the African and Eastern Mediterranean regions. Remarkably, the pattern of use was decreasing in Europe and the Americas between 2020 and 2022, but it grew in Africa.

The WHO employs the AWaRe classification system—Access, Watch, and Reserve—to encourage appropriate use of antibiotics. Access antibiotics are used as first-line therapies for uncomplicated infections, Watch antibiotics have a higher risk of resistance and need to be prescribed with caution, and Reserve antibiotics are last options for severe drug-resistant infections. The study came as a concern when it was found that ‘Watch’ antibiotics—those that have a higher likelihood of promoting resistance—were most commonly prescribed during the pandemic.

Although antibiotics may be life-saving when properly prescribed, their improper use subjects the patient to unneeded side effects and promotes resistant pathogen development. After surviving COVID-19, especially among immunocompromised patients, secondary infections including bacterial pneumonia, sinusitis, and otitis media were reportedly increased. Amoxicillin is generally used for these as the first- line antibiotic.

A study titled ‘The Trend of Antibiotic Consumption After the COVID-19 Pandemic: Approach to Future Outbreaks’ examined changes in antibiotic consumption patterns. It reported a spike in antibiotic use at the onset of the pandemic in 2020 compared to 2019, driven by early fears of fatal secondary bacterial infections. Antibiotic consumption was most prevalent in the early wave of the pandemic and was strongly associated with hospital and ICU admission, particularly with broad- spectrum antibiotics. Evidence also indicated that antibiotic consumption was greater in lower- and middle-income countries compared to high-income countries.

In the United States, between January 2018 and December 2022, data from 120 hospitals indicated a rise in AMR mainly because of hospital-acquired infection rates in the pandemic period. An ICMR report in India also reported that out of 17,534 COVID-19 patients admitted to hospitals (June–August 2020), nearly half of all those with secondary infections had multidrug-resistant organisms. India saw increased self-medication with antibiotics as well during the COVID-19 pandemic. Self-medication of antibiotics in India was also aided by fear, misinformation, and the ready availability of over-the-counter medicines. As an example, in Kerala’s Ernakulam district, 18% of patients claimed to have consumed antibiotics without consulting a doctor, with amoxicillin being widely used.

Physicians have pointed to the psychological and systemic factors driving such
trends. In an interview with India Today, Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine at Delhi’s BLK Max Super Speciality Hospital Dr. Vivek Pal Singh said: “Commoners have fears, and to satisfy their psychology they pops a pill. Most doctors, I won’t say all but most doctors satisfy their patients’ fears with antibiotics. It is almost like giving them a placebo. For example, if you go to a physician and say you have a cough, rather than seeing what is causing a cough they give an antibiotic. Sometimes, I am shocked by the strength of antibiotics given by doctors inside and outside hospital settings.”

A senior resident physician at SMHS Hospital shared similar apprehensions while talking to The Kashmir Monitor said,”There is so much fear of the virus among the people that they end up taking antibiotics even for a common cold. If only they knew the extent of damage it causes rather than healing.” Azithromycin, Ofloxacin, Levofloxacin, and Amoxicillin are available over the counter and people pop them up like candies. The doctor added,“ Some of these medications like Levofloxacin delay the diagnosis of tuberculosis. Ofloxacin and Amoxicillin cause diarrhea commonly, for which the patients again take further antibiotics.” The study in the International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research (IJPSR)reported that even medical professionals—in spite of an awareness of dangers—practiced self-medication. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) provided clear directions against the usage of antibiotics such as amoxicillin for treatment of COVID-19 unless proven bacterial infection existed. Yet studies such as from Jodhpur indicated community pharmacies still distributing antibiotics without a prescription, exacerbating the situation.

Sources:

  1. MDPI
  2. PubMed
  3. The Kashmir Monitor
  4. WHO
  5. International Journal of Pharmacies, Science, and Research
  6. India Today
  7. Times of India
  8. University of Minnesota- CIDRAP
  9. MDPI
  10. National Library of Medicine
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Tulsi Gabbard’s Raisina Dialogue Speech Highlights India’s Future Role in U.S. Strategy https://oninsight.in/2025/03/19/tulsi-gabbards-raisina-dialogue-speech-highlights-indias-future-role-in-u-s-strategy/ https://oninsight.in/2025/03/19/tulsi-gabbards-raisina-dialogue-speech-highlights-indias-future-role-in-u-s-strategy/?noamp=mobile#respond Wed, 19 Mar 2025 05:23:57 +0000 https://oninsight.in/?p=850 New Delhi, March 19 – In a speech that blended cultural symbolism with geopolitical significance, U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard addressed the Raisina Dialogue, emphasizing the deep spiritual and diplomatic ties between India and the United States.

Gabbard, a former U.S. Congresswoman and the first Hindu member of the U.S. House of Representatives, opened her speech with a heartfelt greeting: “Good morning, aloha, namaste, Jai Shri Krishna.” The words, she noted, symbolized the fusion of her Hawaiian roots and Hindu-American identity. Her address came as part of a multinational tour of the Indo-Pacific, a visit strategically timed just two weeks before the Trump administration’s reciprocal tariffs on India and other nations.

Peace, freedom, security, and prosperity were central themes of her speech, with a recurring emphasis on uniting the people of India and the United States. Gabbard leveraged her Pacific roots in Hawaii to reinforce the message of a stronger and more prosperous Indo-Pacific. Since the previous Trump administration, the Indo-Pacific has become a focal point of U.S. foreign policy. The Indian Ocean serves as the theater for four of the world’s major maritime chokepoints, with approximately 80% of global maritime oil trade passing through these narrow passages.

She advocated for a pragmatic, realpolitik approach to world peace, one rooted in economic ties. This stance reflects the recently failed U.S.-Ukraine mineral agreements, which, if successful, would have strengthened economic relations and provided Ukraine with a natural layer of security. While Gabbard did not explicitly reference any specific country or conflict, she stressed that securing peace requires “commitment to fostering cultural and economic ties that reduce the likelihood of an escalation to conflict” and “courage to engage directly with both friends and adversaries alike.”

During her address, Gabbard tackled the growing debate over America’s ‘America First’ policy, clarifying that it should not be misconstrued as ‘America Alone.’ Instead, she stressed the importance of expanding U.S.-India relations, an effort that aligns with Washington’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy. With China’s growing influence in the region, the U.S. has been working to position India as a key strategic counterweight. However, Gabbard asserted that such an alliance can only succeed if the U.S. treats India as an equal partner. In an exclusive conversation with NDTV gabbard stated “the long-time unfortunate persecution and killing and abuse of religious minorities (in Bangladesh) has been a major area of concern for the US government. The talks are just beginning between Trump’s incoming cabinet and the Bangladesh government, but this continues to remain a central focus area of concern.”

She also reaffirmed America’s commitment to strengthening security ties with India, particularly in cybersecurity, emerging technologies, and artificial intelligence. Reflecting on her personal values, Gabbard shared that in both moments of triumph and adversity, she finds guidance in Lord Krishna’s teachings from the Bhagavad Gita.

Gabbard’s visit also included a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 18, during which Modi presented her with a ceremonial vase filled with water from the Mahakumbh, a gesture underscoring India’s appreciation for her long standing support of U.S.-India ties.

As Gabbard continues her Indo-Pacific tour, her remarks at the Raisina Dialogue highlight a future in which U.S.-India relations evolve beyond transactional diplomacy, paving the way for a deeper strategic and cultural partnership.

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Indian Comicverse: A Nostalgic Revival at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2025 https://oninsight.in/2025/03/01/indian-comicverse-a-nostalgic-revival-at-the-new-delhi-world-book-fair-2025/ https://oninsight.in/2025/03/01/indian-comicverse-a-nostalgic-revival-at-the-new-delhi-world-book-fair-2025/?noamp=mobile#respond Sat, 01 Mar 2025 13:58:06 +0000 https://oninsight.in/?p=828 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 Icons of Indian Comics at NDWBF 2025:

Amar Chitra Katha: A Timeless Treasure

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.

Raj Comics: The Evolution of Indian Superheroes

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: A Genre for Every Reader

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: A Tribute to India’s Traditional Art

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: Comics with a Cause

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: Cultivating Pride in Indian Heritage

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: A Global Force in Graphic Storytelling

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: Honoring India’s Real Heroes

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!

Watch the full video now:

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A Tale of Two Rivers: Yamuna and Sabarmati https://oninsight.in/2025/01/29/a-tale-of-two-rivers-yamuna-and-sabarmati/ https://oninsight.in/2025/01/29/a-tale-of-two-rivers-yamuna-and-sabarmati/?noamp=mobile#respond Wed, 29 Jan 2025 10:31:23 +0000 https://oninsight.in/?p=821 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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Burari Repeat: A Tragic Mass Suicide in Madhya Pradesh https://oninsight.in/2024/07/06/burari-repeat-a-tragic-mass-suicide-in-madhya-pradesh/ https://oninsight.in/2024/07/06/burari-repeat-a-tragic-mass-suicide-in-madhya-pradesh/?noamp=mobile#respond Sat, 06 Jul 2024 16:05:29 +0000 https://oninsight.in/?p=793

Early on Monday, local police received a distress call alerting them to the situation. Upon arrival, they found Rakesh Dodwa, 27, his wife Lalita Dodwa, 25, and their children Laxmi, 9, Prakash, 7, and Akshay, 5, hanging inside their residence. The shocking discovery was made at around 7 AM, leaving the community in deep sorrow and confusion.

“The report of five deaths in Ravdi village, Sondwa tehsil, was received at 7 AM today,” confirmed a police official. The authorities have launched a thorough investigation led by the Sub Divisional Officer of Police (SDOP) of Alirajpur to uncover the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.

This case bears a chilling resemblance to the Burari incident in Delhi, where 11 family members were found dead in their home nearly four years ago. The Burari case shocked the nation, with the family discovered hanging in their home in a ritualistic manner, bound and blindfolded. Investigations revealed that the family had been influenced by delusional beliefs and a shared psychotic disorder, leading to their tragic demise.

The bodies in Alirajpur have been sent for autopsy, as investigators work diligently to piece together the events that led to this heartbreaking outcome. The community is left grappling with the emotional impact of such a profound loss, seeking answers and solace in the face of such a grim reality.

As the investigation unfolds, local authorities are committed to providing clarity and support to the affected community. The emotional toll of such incidents is profound, and efforts are being made to address the mental health and financial well-being of families to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The tragic deaths of Rakesh, Lalita, Laxmi, Prakash, and Akshay Dodwa serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist within our communities. As we mourn their loss, we must also strive to understand and address the root causes of such tragedies, working collectively to prevent them from recurring. The investigation in Alirajpur continues, with authorities determined to provide answers and prevent future occurrences of such devastating events.

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