Rajiv Gandhi Institute For Contemporary Studies
June 30, 2025
The first article is on the theme Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions. It is by Ravinder Pal Singh, who is an International Researcher on Security and Peace. He was at the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), and various other international appointments, during which he observed closely the deleterious effect on national security when internal […]
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June 30, 2025
Governance measures how effectively power is exercised and public services delivered. Tools like the Mundle framework, World Bank’s WGI, and CARE Edge State Ranking offer objective, data-driven assessments of Indian states. Measuring governance enables benchmarking, drives competitive federalism, and empowers citizens, helping India target reforms and achieve more effective, inclusive, and accountable public administration.
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June 30, 2025
New U.S. tariffs could reduce India’s merchandise exports to the U.S. by US$ 5.76 billion (6.41%) in 2025, according to GTRI. Sectors like seafood, steel, gems, and electronics face steep declines, while pharmaceuticals and select textiles may see gains. India’s export competitiveness will depend on adapting to shifting tariffs and global supply chain dynamics.
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June 30, 2025
India’s employment growth depends on empowering HWEs and αHWEs, which generate more jobs and value than OAEs. However, they lack access to flexible finance and micro-equity. A revamped credit Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), with AI-enabled risk tools and revenue-linked repayments, can bridge this gap. Policy focus must shift to these enterprises to unlock massive job creation and inclusive growth.
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June 30, 2025
India’s Environmental Performance Index (EPI) ranking has sharply declined, standing at 176th out of 180 countries in 2024, reflecting persistent challenges in ecosystem vitality, environmental health, and climate change mitigation. Despite ambitious commitments, India’s scores remain low, especially in biodiversity, air quality, and water resources. The report urges a shift toward ecologically sustainable development to align economic growth with environmental regeneration.
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June 30, 2025
India’s democratic constitution transformed a society of subjects into citizens with rights to justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. These values are challenged by majoritarianism, which undermines constitutional morality, judicial independence, and social cohesion. Restoring democratic stability requires education-driven constitutional awareness, separation of powers, and citizen participation to uphold inclusive governance and resist exclusionary, authoritarian tendencies.
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May 30, 2025
This issue of Policy Watch is on the theme India’s Place in the World. Earlier in this month, we witnessed armed conflict between India and Pakistan, when India responded to the terrorist attack at Pahalgam in which 26 civilians were killed on 22 April 2025. The first article is on this, by Thiru P. Chidambaram, […]
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May 30, 2025
India's ties with Bangladesh soured after Sheikh Hasina's ouster, rising Islamist influence, and trade tensions. With Pakistan, India adopted a tougher stance post-terror attacks, suspending the Indus Water Treaty. China’s growing regional influence complicates matters. Surrounded by instability, India faces a fragile peace and shifting dynamics across its neighbourhood from Myanmar to Afghanistan.
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May 7, 2025
The report provides an in-depth examination of the state’s environmental, social, and economic challenges, proposing a comprehensive strategy for sustainable development. Mizoram faces a triple crisis: environmental degradation, social disparities, and economic vulnerabilities. Environmental concerns include deforestation, water scarcity, soil erosion, and the adverse impacts of climate change, such as glacial retreat and increased frequency […]
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April 30, 2025
Despite economic growth, Himalayan states face worsening social, economic, and ecological conditions. A new strategy—putting nature first, then people, then GDP—is needed. This approach emphasizes regenerating natural resources, empowering communities, and integrating environmental priorities into all levels of governance, ensuring sustainable well-being and resilience for the region’s future.
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April 30, 2025
Uttarakhand’s natural environment comprises rich forests, abundant water resources, diverse soils, and fragile mountain ecosystems. However, it faces growing threats from deforestation, hydropower expansion, skewed land distribution, declining agriculture, and climate change. Glacial retreat, forest degradation, drying streams, and land abandonment reflect the deepening crisis, calling for sustainable governance and ecological restoration across sectors.
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April 30, 2025
The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is ecologically diverse, with rich water resources, extensive forests, and varied agro-ecological zones. It lies in the Indus basin, with abundant rivers, glaciers, and springs. Despite climate change threats and land degradation, forest cover and agriculture remain relatively stable, supporting rural livelihoods, biodiversity, and commercial forestry and horticulture.
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April 30, 2025
Ladakh's natural environment is marked by cold desert conditions, limited water, sparse forests, degraded soil, and harsh climate. It relies heavily on glacier melt for water amid growing scarcity. Forest cover is minimal, and agriculture is constrained by poor soil. Climate change is accelerating glacier retreat and land degradation, threatening ecosystems and livelihoods in the region.
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April 30, 2025
Himachal Pradesh’s natural environment is shaped by its rich river systems, glaciers, forests, and diverse agro-ecological zones. However, it faces growing challenges like glacial retreat, drying water sources, deforestation, soil erosion, and climate-induced changes. Despite legal forest cover of 68%, actual tree cover is low. Climate change accelerates degradation of land, forests, and water resources.
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April 27, 2025
This edition presents four articles, all written by RGICS Head of Research, Jeet Singh, examining the natural environment in and two Union Territories (Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir) and two states (Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh) in the western Indian Himalayan region. Spanning over 200,000 sq km within a global biodiversity hotspot, this region shapes the […]
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April 7, 2025
The study presents a comprehensive examination of the state’s multifaceted challenges and proposes a strategic framework for inclusive and sustainable development. Uttarakhand confronts a triple crisis encompassing environmental degradation, social disparities, and economic vulnerabilities. Environmental concerns include deforestation, water scarcity, soil erosion, and the adverse impacts of climate change, such as glacial retreat and increased […]
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March 25, 2025
The article highlights the persistent credit gap facing India’s small enterprises, particularly Hired Worker Enterprises (HWEs). It proposes a paradigm shift from rigid, EMI-based loans to flexible, cashflow-linked financing (FFRC). Backed by real case studies and a successful pilot, the paper calls for ecosystem-wide adoption of FFRC to unlock growth and employment potential.
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March 24, 2025
This issue of Policy Watch deals with the theme Growth with Employment. We carry three articles, two focussing on the future of the Indian economy, given the huge uncertainties caused by the Trump Tariffs and even as we are grappling with those, the news that India has registered a record USD 100 billion trade deficit […]
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March 7, 2025
The report titled “An Analysis of the Current Status of the Environment, Society, and Economy of Himachal Pradesh” provides a comprehensive examination of the state’s pressing challenges and proposes a strategic framework for inclusive and sustainable development. Himachal Pradesh faces a triple crisis encompassing environmental degradation, social disparities, and economic vulnerabilities. Environmental concerns include deforestation, […]
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February 27, 2025
We carry six articles here, some taken from other publications, and republished because of their relevance to the contemporary challenges of Governance and Development in India. Other articles have been put together by the RGICS staff. The first article by Arun Maira and Sarthak Shukla is at the level of the philosophy of Governance and […]
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February 25, 2025
Around 25% of Indian youth aged 15–29 are neither in education, employment, nor training. The PM Internship Scheme aims to address this by offering paid internships to low-income youth. However, despite 82,000 offers, only 8,700 joined. Learning from Singapore’s structured, mentored, and government-backed internship programs could help India improve participation and youth employability outcomes.
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February 3, 2025
The article traces Nagaland’s shift from a subsistence economy to a cash-driven society dominated by government jobs, which raised living standards but limited entrepreneurship. Overdependence on state employment has fueled corruption, reduced productivity, and stifled business growth. It urges a mindset change toward entrepreneurship, celebrating market-driven opportunities to build wealth, create jobs, and ensure Nagaland’s sustainable economic future.
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February 1, 2025
Overview of the Indian economy India experienced robust GDP growth in the mid-2000s, exceeding 8% annually, but faced a slowdown to 6% following the global financial crisis of 2007-08. By 2012-13, growth further declined to about 4.5%. Although there was a brief surge between 2014 and 2016, growth slowed again after demonetization in 2016 and […]
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January 31, 2025
The January 2025 issue of Policy Watch is on the theme Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions. This issue is special as 26th January 2025 is the 75th anniversary of our Constitution. Though our Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions are under serious threat, this is a time to celebrate. In that spirit the first article describes […]
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January 31, 2025
Indian courts have played a critical role in reinforcing constitutional values. Recent landmark judgments addressed issues like remission for convicts, electoral transparency, bail rights, and protection against illegal demolitions. Historic cases like Kesavananda Bharati established the Basic Structure Doctrine, ensuring that constitutional amendments cannot violate fundamental principles. Courts have also broadened Article 21 to include rights like privacy, dignity, and personal liberty.
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January 31, 2025
On November 25, 1949, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar delivered his concluding speech to the Constituent Assembly. He highlighted the Constitution's rigorous drafting process, acknowledged the efforts of colleagues like B.N. Rau and S.N. Mukherjee, and warned against complacency. Emphasizing democracy, equality, and fraternity, he urged India to embrace social justice and avoid repeating historical mistakes that led to lost independence.
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January 31, 2025
Over the years, several constitutional amendments have aimed at strengthening democracy, social justice, education, and federalism. Milestones include lowering the voting age, recognizing local governance, ensuring educational rights, and empowering marginalized groups. However, some amendments have restricted fundamental rights and compromised democracy. Efforts to restore democratic values have included reversing emergency powers and safeguarding judicial review.
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January 31, 2025
India’s journey to create its Constitution was a powerful story of self-determination, inclusivity, and collaboration. It began with the demand for a Constituent Assembly in 1935 and evolved through years of struggle, debates, and careful drafting led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The final document, reflecting justice, equality, and liberty, was adopted on November 26, 1949, and came into effect on January 26, 1950.
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January 31, 2025
Various violations of the Indian Constitution have occurred over the years, including executive interference in the judiciary, infringement of fundamental rights like equality, liberty, and life, and the undermining of democracy, secularism, social justice, and federalism. The Modi government’s manipulation of institutions draws unsettling comparisons to the dark days of the Emergency era.
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January 31, 2025
RGF’s HOPE Initiative celebrated India’s 75th Constitution Day through art exhibitions (Moments in Collapse, Ishwar Allah Tero Naam), film screenings (Flickers of HOPE), music, workshops, and youth dialogues (Samvidhan Samvad). Collaborating with SAHMAT and We The People Abhiyan, it blended culture and constitutional values to inspire civic responsibility and democratic pride.
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December 31, 2024
Dr Manmohan Singh was firmly rooted in the practical political economy which constrains theoretically pure choices. We will miss this scholar statesman not just for his wisdom but also his civility.
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December 31, 2024
Introduction In developing economies, despite the potentials for accelerating economic development, there are various social, economic, institutional and geographical issues that inhibit enabling growth and development. The quality of instih1tions matters for economic development (Rodrick et al. 2004). The failure to factor in institutions as constraints/drivers of growth and development in developing countries during the […]
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December 31, 2024
The article explores India's relationships with Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Bhutan, and Nepal, focusing on strategic concerns, economic ties, border issues, and China's growing influence in the region. To strengthen these relations, a “Panchmukhi” strategy is suggested, emphasizing diplomacy, cooperation, and steering clear of populist politics that could harm bilateral ties.
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December 31, 2024
The 18th ISFR 2023 report highlights India's forest and tree cover reaching 25.17% of its geographical area. Key issues include one-third of recorded forests lacking cover, reliance on tree cover for green cover improvement, degradation of natural dense forests, and rapid decline of Himalayan forests, demanding urgent action.
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December 30, 2024
The article by Shefali Jha discusses the debates on secularism during the Constituent Assembly proceedings (1946–1950). It highlights disagreements over defining secularism, balancing religious practice with state neutrality, and ensuring equality. Ultimately, the Constitution recognized religious practice broadly but rejected political safeguards for religious minorities, aiming for a secular, inclusive democracy
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December 30, 2024
This special issue of Policy Watch honors the late former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh with a personal memoriam tribute. It presents one article on each of five important themes. The first article addresses Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions, focusing on the word “Secular” in the Constitution’s Preamble, added in 1976. The article revisits Constituent […]
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December 24, 2024
The study examines youth employment and entrepreneurship in Ladakh’s tourism sector, highlighting its 50% contribution to the region’s GDP. Despite seasonal jobs, skill gaps, and infrastructure challenges, opportunities exist in adventure tourism, local crafts, and community-based ventures. Recommendations include vocational training, financial support, digital marketing, and winter tourism to empower local youth and promote sustainable economic growth.
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December 24, 2024
Dr. Manmohan Singh was firmly rooted in the practical political economy which constrains theoretically pure choices. We will miss this scholar statesman not just for his wisdom but also his civility. The three years after the banks had been told by the Narsimhan Committee to focus on asset quality and earnings, 1992 to 1994, had […]
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December 24, 2024
Violation of Constitutional Values The preamble of the Constitution of India states: In this study, we document how the values laid down in the preamble have been grossly violated most intensely in the period since 2014. Justice The Preamble to the Constitution of India reflects the fundamental values, philosophy and objectives of the Constitution. […]
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November 30, 2024
दिनेश दुबे का लेख नेहरू की विदेश नीति पर आधारित है, जो शांति, गुटनिरपेक्षता और सह-अस्तित्व के सिद्धांतों पर आधारित थी। इसमें बताया गया है कि नेहरू ने भारत की संप्रभुता की रक्षा, वैश्विक सहयोग को बढ़ावा देने और नवस्वतंत्र राष्ट्रों का समर्थन करने का प्रयास किया। शीत युद्ध के दौरान पंचशील और गुटनिरपेक्षता की नीति ने भारत को वैश्विक शक्ति खेमों से स्वतंत्र बनाए रखने का प्रयास किया
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November 30, 2024
This issue of Policy Watch focuses on the theme “India’s Place in the World” and opens with a tribute to Dr. Bibek Debroy, former Director of RGICS, who passed away on 1st November 2024. The issue features two obituary articles by economist Sajjid Chenoy and public intellectual Pratap Bhanu Mehta, highlighting Dr. Debroy’s scholarly contributions […]
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November 30, 2024
In both partisan alignments, first with Congress and then the BJP, he managed to remain his own person: Self-driven, mysterious, funny, but always industrious When Bibek Debroy resigned from the Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Contemporary Studies and PHDCCI, the Centre for Policy Research smelled an opportunity. I immediately called him up and offered a professorship. […]
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November 30, 2024
Bibek Debroy was the Director of the Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Contemporary Studies for four years till 2004. As a tribute to him, we reproduce an article by Sajjid Chinoy, Head, Asia Economic Research, J P Morgan and a part-time member of Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister. This article appeared first in the […]
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November 30, 2024
India’s relations with Afghanistan, Pakistan, Maldives, and Bangladesh are shaped by regional security, China's influence, economic cooperation, and political dynamics. Issues include Pakistan-backed terrorism, China’s strategic presence, political shifts in Maldives, and growing anti-India sentiments in Bangladesh
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November 30, 2024
The article discusses the potential global impact of Donald Trump's presidency, highlighting his mercantilist and protectionist policies, including high tariffs, restrictions on immigration, and climate skepticism. It warns of economic repercussions, strained India-U.S. relations, disrupted supply chains, and challenges to global efforts in trade, immigration, climate action, and healthcare.
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October 30, 2024
The Supreme Court’s MADA Judgment (July 25, 2024) upheld State Governments’ authority to tax mining lands but clarified royalty payments to the central government aren’t taxes. The retrospective application from April 1, 2005, with staggered payments over 12 years, may impact mining companies, investment, and India’s federal structure.
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October 30, 2024
The Forest Rights Act (FRA) seeks to restore land and forest rights to tribal and forest-dependent communities. However, challenges like poor awareness, complicated claims, and bureaucratic delays persist. Better collaboration, digitization, and practical solutions like geo-tagging can help streamline the process, improve livelihoods, and promote environmental conservation.
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October 30, 2024
The Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Contemporary Studies held a webinar on September 9, 2024, discussing Himalayan ecology, culture, and livelihoods. Panelists highlighted Arunachal Pradesh’s organic farming, Himachal Pradesh’s development models, Uttarakhand’s green economy potential, and Himalayan challenges like GLOFs, deforestation, and hydropower impacts. Promoting a green economy was emphasized.
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October 30, 2024
This issue of Policy Watch focuses on Environment, Natural Resources, and Sustainability, presenting five articles that explore alternative development paradigms. The first article by Vikalp Sangam, a coalition of activists and NGOs, highlights five unifying principles of alternatives to the dominant development model: ecological integrity and resilience, social well-being and justice, direct and delegated democracy, […]
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October 30, 2024
People around the world are creating alternatives that challenge mainstream systems by focusing on fairness, sustainability, and community well-being. These efforts include local farming, clean energy projects, indigenous healthcare, and barter economies. They’re all about empowering communities, promoting justice, and respecting nature, rather than just chasing profit and exploitation.
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October 30, 2024
Biodiversity credits aim to finance conservation but issues including flawed offset methodologies, inaccurate biodiversity measurement, neglect of Indigenous rights, and arbitrary valuation are major concerns. Critics argue these market-based mechanisms may harm biodiversity and local communities rather than protect them.
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September 30, 2024
The latest Policy Watch issue explores the theme “Growth with Employment”, challenging the conventional “growth at any cost” model. It offers five diverse articles that promote sustainable, inclusive, and employment-generating development. The opening article by Arun Maira, former Planning Commission member, critiques India’s recent growth pattern for harming the environment and creating minimal decent employment. […]
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September 20, 2024
This article chronicles the evolution of Tamil Nadu’s natural farming movement, led by Dr. G. Nammalvar. Disillusioned with Green Revolution policies, he catalyzed a grassroots resurgence in organic, low-input agriculture. By blending scientific insight with traditional wisdom, he created a lasting, civil society-driven alternative to industrial farming, influencing thousands and reshaping ecological consciousness across Tamil Nadu.
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August 30, 2024
The August 2024 issue of Policy Watch is dedicated to the theme of Governance and Development, commemorating the 80th birth anniversary of late Shri Rajiv Gandhi. It reflects on his multifaceted legacy and contemporary relevance. The first article features a powerful 1989 speech by Rajiv Gandhi on secularism, highlighting how the communal threat he warned […]
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August 25, 2024
The article critiques the inefficacy of representative democracy in addressing poverty and exclusion, emphasizing the disillusionment of the poor with public institutions. It highlights decentralization and participatory governance—especially through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment—as transformative tools to empower marginalized groups. Genuine grassroots participation, particularly by Dalits and women, is seen as essential to deepen democracy and ensure inclusive development.
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August 25, 2024
Sam Pitroda’s account vividly captures the vision, urgency, and innovative energy behind India’s Technology Missions under Rajiv Gandhi. With a mission-mode approach, Pitroda and his team tackled challenges in water, immunization, literacy, telecom, oilseeds, and dairy, blending technology, political will, and grassroots involvement. This pioneering effort laid the foundation for inclusive, tech-driven development in India.
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August 25, 2024
Mani Shankar Aiyar’s The Rajiv I Knew offers a compelling reassessment of Rajiv Gandhi as a modernising leader. It highlights his efforts to resolve internal conflicts, empower local democracy through Panchayati Raj, harness technology for development, and improve foreign relations. Despite controversies, Rajiv’s forward-looking vision and inclusive politics left a lasting imprint on India’s democratic and developmental journey.
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July 31, 2024
यह लेख उत्तर प्रदेश में भारत जोड़ो अभियान के प्रयासों और चुनौतियों का वर्णन करता है। कोरोना काल के दौरान सरकार की नीतियों के विरोध, बेरोजगारी और महंगाई के मुद्दों पर लोगों में गुस्सा था, लेकिन भाजपा सरकार फिर से सत्ता में आई। अभियान ने विभिन्न आंदोलनों और सामाजिक संगठनों को जोड़कर लोगों को जागरूक करने का काम किया। राहुल गांधी की भारत जोड़ो यात्रा और न्याय यात्रा ने जनता के बीच एक नई उम्मीद जगाई, खासकर उन लोगों के बीच जो मोदी सरकार की नीतियों से नाखुश थे। लेख में यह भी बताया गया कि राजनीतिक परिवर्तन के साथ-साथ व्यवस्था परिवर्तन के लिए भी प्रयास करने की जरूरत है।
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July 31, 2024
The Resolution from the 2nd National Convention of Bharat Jodo Abhiyaan (BJA) reaffirms its commitment to defending India's Constitution, democratic institutions, and constitutional values. The BJA, formed in response to perceived authoritarianism under BJP-RSS rule, seeks to build a broad coalition of marginalized communities and support pro-democratic movements to reclaim India's republic.
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July 30, 2024
The July 2024 issue of Policy Watch focuses on Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions, marking a shift from the January issue that warned of serious threats to these foundations. The 2024 Lok Sabha elections, especially BJP’s loss of majority and setbacks in Uttar Pradesh, signal that the public has rejected those undermining constitutional norms. The […]
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June 30, 2024
This piece highlights the contradiction of India’s rising global stature while losing influence in its own neighborhood. With China’s assertiveness and America’s strategic withdrawal, it stresses the need for India to rethink its regional approach, strengthen soft power, and revitalize its South Asian relationships.
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June 30, 2024
This piece argues that India’s current growth model neglects the poor and damages the environment. It presents a compelling case for sustainable, people-centric development focusing on agrarian reforms, employment guarantees, and resource conservation, moving beyond GDP as a sole indicator of national progress.
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June 30, 2024
This is a special issue in which we carry one article on each theme. The first two articles are on the theme Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions.The first article is reproduced with grateful acknowledgement from The Times of India. Written by Vinita Gursahani Singh, Managing Trustee of We, The People Abhiyan, an NGO dedicated to empowering […]
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June 30, 2024
During the 2024 election campaign, the Indian Constitution unexpectedly became the star. With Google search trends soaring and party manifestos constantly referencing it, people saw it as a symbol of democracy, choice, and rights. The article shows how the Constitution resonated deeply with voters during this critical period.
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June 30, 2024
The paper proposes a state policy for social cohesion rooted in constitutional values to counter majoritarianism and societal polarization. It emphasizes educating citizens—especially youth—on justice, equality, secularism, and fraternity. By fostering public understanding, strengthening institutions, and separating religion from politics, the approach aims to build inclusive governance, social trust, and national stability through democratic and constitutional means.
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June 30, 2024
This article highlights the need for a social cohesion policy rooted in India’s constitutional values of secularism, justice, and inclusivity. It warns against the dangers of majoritarianism and emphasizes reforms in education, governance, and legislation to strengthen public trust, communal harmony, and respect for diversity.
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June 30, 2024
his piece reflects on the Bharat Jodo Nyaya Yatra’s impact in Manipur, where civil society efforts triumphed over governmental suppression. Despite obstacles, ordinary citizens exercised their democratic power, sparking political shifts across Manipur, Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Assam. It’s a testament to people’s resilience and commitment to democracy.
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June 30, 2024
Community forest governance in the Western Indian Himalayan region has evolved significantly, focusing on Cooperative Forest Societies (CFS) in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, and Van Panchayats in Uttarakhand. Joint Forest Management (JFM) has undermined these autonomous systems by centralizing governance, reducing ecological resilience, and restricting local decision-making authority.
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June 7, 2024
The report outlines a strategic roadmap to transform Uttar Pradesh’s economy and employment scenario by 2027. With the state’s goal of becoming a one trillion-dollar economy, the report emphasizes that growth must be inclusive, bridging regional and social disparities and ensuring widespread employment opportunities across all sections of society. Key challenges identified include low labor […]
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May 30, 2024
India-China relations have deteriorated over the past five years, shifting from cordial diplomacy to border skirmishes and strategic rivalry. Despite tensions, India's trade dependency on China remains high, with China becoming India's top trade partner. The article emphasizes India's struggle to address the growing trade deficit
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May 27, 2024
This issue has been put together by RGICS Senior Visiting Fellow, Prof Somnath Ghosh, who did his doctoral work at the Jawaharlal Nehru University’s School of International Studies and RGICS Fellow Sneha Mahapatra, who has a post-graduate degree from the School of Advanced International Studies, Johns Hopkins University, USA. This month, on 27th May, it […]
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May 25, 2024
Overview of the Indian Economy India experienced robust GDP growth in the mid-2000s, exceeding 8% annually, but faced a slowdown to 6% following the global financial crisis of 2007-08. By 2012-13, growth further declined to about 4.5%. Although there was a brief surge between 2014 and 2016, growth slowed again after demonetization in 2016 and […]
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May 25, 2024
This paper explores Jawaharlal Nehru’s foundational role in shaping India’s foreign policy rooted in peace, non-alignment, and moral diplomacy. It highlights his advocacy for Panchsheel—five principles of peaceful coexistence—which embodied India's constitutional vision of international order. The paper also analyzes Nehru’s realist-idealist approach and his lasting contribution to international law and diplomacy, especially in Asia.
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May 25, 2024
India’s economic trajectory reveals robust GDP growth until disruptions like demonetization and GST. While services dominate GDP, agriculture still employs the majority. Exports and imports are interlinked, with key sectors like IT, pharma, and electronics showing potential. Import substitution and export promotion are vital for GDP and job growth. A strategic, employment-focused trade policy is essential.
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May 25, 2024
Adverse international responses to smothering of Democracy in India India’s image as a democracy has faced significant scrutiny and criticism over the past five years, with international organizations and media reports highlighting concerning trends that raise doubts about India’s commitment to democratic principles. Most recently, the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in March […]
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May 25, 2024
The article highlights rising global concern over India’s democratic backsliding, marked by arrests of opposition leaders, curbs on press freedom, misuse of sedition and anti-terror laws, and alleged overseas assassinations. International criticism from the UN, US, and Germany questions India’s commitment to democratic norms, threatening its global image, leadership aspirations, and standing as a model democracy.
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May 7, 2024
The report “Meeting India’s Ever Growing Energy Demand – Implications for Domestic and Foreign Policy” by the Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Contemporary Studies (RGICS) provides a comprehensive analysis of India’s escalating energy requirements and the multifaceted strategies needed to address them. India’s energy consumption has surged, with electricity demand projected to double by 2030, making […]
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April 30, 2024
The article talks about how forest-dwelling communities in Udaipur are fighting to secure their rights over community and individual forest lands under the Forest Rights Act of 2006. It highlights the struggles people face in getting these rights recognized, despite help from NGOs. What stands out is how strong community leadership, active participation of women, and local governance play a big role in making forest management and conservation work effectively. It's a story of resilience, collaboration, and hope for a sustainable future.
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April 30, 2024
The Green Credit Programme in India aims to incentivize sustainable actions like tree planting, water conservation, and pollution reduction. Managed by ICFRE, the initiative allows trading of Green Credits on a domestic platform. Concerns include lack of proper measurement, high monitoring costs, and potential greenwashing without effective oversight.
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April 30, 2024
This issue of Policy Watch is on the theme of Environment, Natural Resources and Sustainability. It consists of five articles on issues pertaining to conservation of natural wealth (water and forest), mechanisms to remove Green House Gases from atmosphere (carbon credit and green credit schemes) and international environmental conventions and protocols signed by India. The […]
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April 30, 2024
The article discusses how the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), set to start in 2026, could hurt India’s climate efforts and steel exports. By imposing taxes on carbon-intensive imports, CBAM challenges India’s climate goals and fairness principles. India needs global support to achieve its 2070 net-zero target.
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April 30, 2024
India is actively working to address global environmental challenges through international agreements aimed at protecting biodiversity, reducing pollution, and combating climate change. Efforts under conventions like Ramsar, CBD, CITES, and the Paris Agreement show progress, but challenges remain in funding, collaboration, and aligning policies effectively.
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April 7, 2024
The report examines the complex relationship between India’s foreign trade, GDP growth, and employment generation. It highlights the critical role foreign trade plays in driving economic growth and creating jobs, stressing the importance of strategic policies to maximize these benefits. In the fiscal year 2021-22, foreign trade accounted for about 45.7% of India’s GDP, with […]
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March 7, 2024
The Rajasthan Employment Study (2024–2029) provides a detailed analysis of the state’s employment challenges and offers strategic solutions for job creation and wage enhancement. The report highlights persistent issues of unemployment and underemployment, particularly among youth and marginalized groups. Despite economic progress, many workers remain in informal, low-paying jobs that lack security and benefits. A […]
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March 7, 2024
The Madhya Pradesh Employment Study (2024–2029) provides a detailed examination of the state’s employment scenario, addressing key challenges and offering practical strategies for job creation and wage enhancement. The report reveals persistent unemployment and underemployment, particularly among youth and socially disadvantaged groups. Although the state has experienced economic growth, a large portion of the workforce […]
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February 17, 2024
The February 2024 issue of Policy Watch is on the theme – Governance Development. Coming so soon after 22nd January, 2024, when the Pran Pratishta (consecration) of the newly constructed Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, we could not but take notice of this contemporary issue. Thus we begin with an article by Dr Subhash Sharma – […]
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February 7, 2024
The report presents an in-depth analysis of Karnataka’s employment scenario, highlighting key challenges and suggesting actionable solutions for the period 2024–2029. Despite economic growth, the state faces persistent issues of unemployment and underemployment, particularly among youth and marginalized communities. A major concern is the growing disconnect between educational attainment and actual employment opportunities, resulting in […]
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January 30, 2024
The article emphasizes the need for a state-driven policy to promote social cohesion based on constitutional values. It highlights the risks of communal polarization and advocates education, legal reforms, and awareness programs to foster unity. Urging swift action, it stresses that inclusivity and justice are essential for national stability.
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January 30, 2024
India’s core values—justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity—are facing serious challenges. Since 2014, there’s been a growing strain on democratic institutions, with the government expanding its power over the legislature and judiciary. Executive overreach, judicial interference, and weakened legislative processes are eroding democracy, deepening societal divisions, and threatening national unity.
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January 28, 2024
This issue is focussed on the fact that our Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions are under serious threat. The first article is by Pratap Bhanu Mehta, the scholar interpreter of our maladies, offers an overview. Mehta asserts that “The biggest challenge we face in acknowledging … that we are still bewitched by the pseudo constitutional […]
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January 7, 2024
The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the employment scenario in Telangana, highlighting critical challenges and proposing targeted strategies for improvement. The state faces a severe unemployment crisis, with millions of youth out of work. This widespread joblessness has led to social distress, particularly among marginalized groups like Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward […]
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December 30, 2023
India’s foreign policy has undergone a significant shift from Nehruvian non-alignment to Modi-era multi-alignment, reflecting changing global dynamics. Strategic autonomy remains a rhetorical constant, yet India increasingly partners with Western powers while countering China’s influence. Domestic political changes since 2014 have influenced this transformation, emphasizing technology diplomacy, assertive nationalism, and efforts to reclaim leadership in the Global South amidst geopolitical complexities.
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December 30, 2023
A three-day workshop in Chamoli, Uttarakhand, trained 49 micro-entrepreneurs—mainly women—in conservation-linked enterprises like organic farming, dairy, poultry, and eco-tourism. Organized by RGICS and partners, it emphasized ecological entrepreneurship, market access, traditional techniques, and policy support. Sessions covered carbon credit, responsible tourism, value addition, and technology access, aiming to boost sustainable livelihoods in Himalayan regions.
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December 30, 2023
भारत में 2018 से 2029 तक 7 करोड़ रोजगार सृजित करने की संभावना है, बशर्ते नीति-निर्देशित निवेश का पुनर्वितरण चार प्रमुख क्षेत्रों में हो—प्राकृतिक संसाधनों का पुनर्जीवन, आवास एवं निर्माण, सूक्ष्म एवं लघु विनिर्माण, और श्रम-केंद्रित सेवाएं। इस रणनीति के तहत ग्रामीण और छोटे कस्बों को प्राथमिकता देकर आर्थिक विकास और रोजगार दोनों में वृद्धि की जा सकती है।
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December 30, 2023
साने गुरुजी एक संवेदनशील स्वतंत्रता सेनानी, शिक्षक और साहित्यकार थे, जिन्होंने गरीबों, मजदूरों और दबे-कुचलों के लिए जीवन समर्पित किया। उन्होंने सांप्रदायिकता के खिलाफ राष्ट्र सेवा दल की स्थापना की और "आंतरभारती" जैसी समरसता की कल्पना की। आज के बंटते समाज में उनके विचार हमें धर्मनिरपेक्षता, सामाजिक न्याय और राष्ट्रीय एकता के मूल्यों की याद दिलाते हैं।
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December 24, 2023
This is a special issue in which we carry one article on each theme. The first article is in Hindi, by Shri Suresh Khairnar and it is a biograpihcal tribute to Sane Guruji – the great social reformer of Maharshartra whose 125th birth anniversary was on 23rd Dec 2023. We include it under the theme Constitutional […]
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December 7, 2023
The Chhattisgarh Employment Study (2024–2029) presents a detailed analysis of the employment challenges facing the state and outlines strategic approaches for sustainable job creation and wage enhancement. Unemployment and underemployment remain persistent, particularly among the youth and marginalized communities. Even with economic development, a large share of the population is engaged in low-paying, informal jobs, […]
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November 30, 2023
The G20, formed in 1999 amid global financial turmoil, has become a key forum for international economic cooperation. While it unites major economies to address crises and development issues, its effectiveness is often hindered by internal divisions, non-binding commitments, and geopolitical tensions. India’s 2023 presidency highlighted Global South concerns, yet challenges in implementation and consensus continue to persist.
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November 30, 2023
This article critically examines realpolitik through the lens of the Israel-Palestine conflict, highlighting how power-centric diplomacy, moral myopia, and historical injustice have perpetuated displacement, identity erasure, and humanitarian crises. It explores global hypocrisy, India's diplomatic shift, and the tragic cost of national interest trumping ethics, ultimately revealing the devastating consequences of unchecked geopolitical ambition and ideological extremism.
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November 26, 2023
India is facing a severe water crisis as groundwater levels continue to deplete at an alarming rate. The 2021 Master Plan for Artificial Recharge and the 2023 Water Bodies Census emphasize the need to revive and modify existing water bodies to enhance groundwater recharge. With only 12% of India’s 24.24 lakh water bodies contributing to […]
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November 8, 2023
This issue of Policy Watch deals with the theme – India’s Place in the World. The issue has been put together by RGICS Senior Visiting Fellow, Prof Somnath Ghosh, who did his doctoral work at the Jawaharlal Nehru University’s School of International Studies and RGICS Fellow Sneha Mahapatra, a graduate of the Johns Hopkins University’s […]
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October 30, 2023
The G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration, themed "One Earth, One Family, One Future," emphasized sustainability, climate action, and inclusive growth. Key initiatives included the Global Biofuels Alliance and principles for Lifestyle for Sustainable Development (LiFE). While diplomatically significant, experts criticized it for lacking concrete actions, highlighting that G20 nations are falling short on climate and SDG commitments.
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October 30, 2023
India’s land revenue and property tax system needs urgent modernization. Learning from global models like Sweden and Kenya, and local innovations such as Karnataka’s Bhoomi and Maharashtra’s urban solutions, India can improve accuracy and transparency using GIS, drones, and AI. However, challenges like outdated records, technological gaps, and resistance to change must be addressed through central coordination and state-level implementation.
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October 23, 2023
The document highlights major environmental deregulations introduced through three legislative amendments passed during India’s 2023 Monsoon parliamentary session: the Biological Diversity (Amendment) Act, the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, and the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act. These changes deregulate 27% of India’s forests, weaken protections for biological resources, and reduce oversight of offshore […]
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October 8, 2023
This issue of Policy Watch is on the theme Environment, Natural Resources and Sustainability. While compiling this issue, we heard the sad news of the demise of father of India’s Green Revolution, Prof M.S. Swaminathan on September 28, 2023. Throughout his life he contributed immensely to increase food production, enhance farmer’s income and advocate for […]
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September 30, 2023
Humanity faces a triad of crises—social, economic, and ecological—rooted in an economic system that prioritizes returns on financial capital over human and environmental well-being. This system fosters inequality, erodes social cohesion, and damages nature. The paper advocates transitioning to an “economy of nurturance” that emphasizes sustainability, equitable livelihoods, and regeneration of natural, human, and social capital.
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September 30, 2023
Uttar Pradesh aims to become a $1 trillion economy by 2027, requiring a fourfold rise in GSDP. CM Yogi Adityanath highlights infrastructure development, MSMEs, agriculture exports, and IT investment as growth drivers. Despite economic growth, employment rates have declined. Sustainability, inclusive job creation, and sectoral reforms in education, health, and manufacturing remain key to achieving the goal.
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September 29, 2023
This issue of Policy Watch deals with the theme Growth with Employment. In particular, it focuses on the pressing issue of unemployment. India, with nearly 50 crore workers, has the second-largest labor force in the world. The country is on track to become the third-largest economy by 2028, overtaking Japan and Germany. However, despite strong […]
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August 30, 2023
The article explores India's intergovernmental fiscal relations, focusing on Finance Commissions, the Planning Commission, Centrally Sponsored Schemes, and GST. It discusses constitutional mechanisms for resource distribution, highlights Centre-State fiscal imbalances, and critiques centralization trends post-GST. The paper emphasizes the need for cooperative federalism and reforms to ensure state autonomy, fiscal equity, and a balanced Centre-State financial relationship.
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August 30, 2023
The document explores inter-state conflicts in India’s federal structure, focusing on judicial and constitutional mechanisms like Article 131 and 262. It examines inter-state water disputes, the role of tribunals, and coordination bodies such as the Inter-State Council and National Development Council. The study underscores the need for stronger, timely dispute resolution, cooperative federalism, and active central mediation to improve governance.
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August 30, 2023
The document explores inter-state conflicts in India’s federal structure, focusing on judicial and constitutional mechanisms like Article 131 and 262. It examines inter-state water disputes, the role of tribunals, and coordination bodies such as the Inter-State Council and National Development Council. The study underscores the need for stronger, timely dispute resolution, cooperative federalism, and active central mediation to improve governance.
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August 28, 2023
As part of our work on the theme of Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions and the theme Governance and Development, the RGICS had commissioned a study on Federalism in India in late 2022. It was conducted by Arnab Bose, Sr Research Associate, RGICS, with support and guidance from the undersigned. The study is in four […]
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July 30, 2023
The article critically examines Indian federalism by analyzing the distribution of legislative powers between the Centre and States under the Constitution. It highlights the Centre's dominance, judicial interpretations, central encroachments, and erosion of state autonomy, particularly in education and law enforcement. It also explores challenges in judicial federalism, tribunalization, centralized Supreme Court access, and opaque judicial appointments, advocating balanced federal reforms.
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July 30, 2023
Indian federalism, though constitutionally structured as a federation, exhibits strong centralizing tendencies. The Constitution establishes a dual polity, division of powers, and a written, rigid framework. However, powers like emergency provisions, governor appointments, and the ability to form new states reinforce central dominance. Despite this, federalism remains crucial for managing India’s diversity, regional autonomy, and democratic governance.
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July 8, 2023
As part of our work on the theme of Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions and the theme Governance and Development, the RGICS had commissioned a study on Federalism in India in late 2022. It was conducted by Arnab Bose, Sr Research Associate, RGICS, with support and guidance from the undersigned. The study is in four […]
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June 30, 2023
India faces critical groundwater stress, with rising demand projected to surpass supply by 2050. The 2021 Master Plan for Artificial Recharge and the 2023 Water Bodies Census offer complementary strategies for sustainable groundwater management. Integrating these—through revival of traditional water bodies, modern recharge structures, and data synchronization—can unlock massive sub-surface storage potential and ensure long-term water security.
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June 8, 2023
This Special Issue of Policy Watch includes one or two articles across five key themes. On Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions, two articles focus on the Uniform Civil Code. The first summarizes Constituent Assembly debates by CLPR, Bangalore, showing the issue’s historic contentiousness. The second, by Prof. Yogendra Yadav, critiques the political timing of the UCC’s […]
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May 28, 2023
The document highlights key findings on India’s federal structure, focusing on inter-state coordination and dispute resolution mechanisms. It emphasizes the constitutional provisions for resolving disputes, particularly through Article 131, which grants the Supreme Court original jurisdiction over legal disputes between states or between states and the Union. However, the effectiveness of these mechanisms is often […]
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May 28, 2023
The document explores how financial power is shared between the Centre and the States in India, highlighting key challenges such as uneven tax distribution, increasing central control over resources, and the shrinking financial autonomy of states. The Finance Commission plays a crucial role in deciding how taxes and grants are shared, but it often struggles […]
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May 28, 2023
The document delves into how legislative powers are shared between the Union and the States in India, focusing on the Union, State, and Concurrent Lists under the Constitution’s Seventh Schedule. While the system is designed to maintain a balance, the Centre has increasingly encroached on state authority, often diluting the essence of federalism. The judiciary, […]
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May 27, 2023
The document explores India’s quasi-federal structure, where power is divided between the Centre and the States but with a strong centralizing tendency. While the Constitution provides a framework for shared governance, it grants the Centre greater authority in key matters. It examines the division of legislative powers, the role of Governors, and Article 356, which […]
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May 21, 2023
This issue of Policy Watch, themed “India’s Place in the World”, presents a timely reflection on India’s evolving foreign policy amid shifting global power dynamics, compiled by Prof. Somnath Ghosh. Revisiting key themes from its May 2022 edition, it focuses on India’s positioning in multilateral forums like the G-20 and the QUAD, especially relevant amidst […]
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April 30, 2023
दस्तावेज़ हिमालयी क्षेत्रों के सतत विकास की वकालत करता है, जिसमें वनों की रक्षा, स्थानीय स्वावलंबन, महिलाओं के श्रम में कमी, पारंपरिक ज्ञान का उपयोग और पर्यावरण-संवेदनशील नीतियाँ शामिल हैं। यह अंधाधुंध विकास, बड़े बांधों और पर्यटक उद्योग के दुष्प्रभावों को उजागर करते हुए, समग्र और स्थानीय भागीदारी पर आधारित विकास की दिशा का सुझाव देता है।
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April 30, 2023
The Himalayan region’s fragile ecology faces mounting threats from climate change, unregulated infrastructure, and waste. Two summits in 2023 emphasized sustainable mountain development through millet resurgence, plastic waste management, and Gandhian principles. Experts highlighted the interlinkages between infrastructure, natural resources, and social justice, advocating people-centric, ecologically sound policies to preserve the Himalayas’ environment, culture, and livelihoods.
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April 26, 2023
Groundwater is a crucial resource for Madhya Pradesh, supporting both agriculture and daily water needs. However, excessive extraction, lack of regulation, and fluoride contamination are creating a growing crisis. With 80% of the state’s land covered by hard rock formations, groundwater availability varies widely. While government policies exist, enforcement is weak, and unregulated use continues. […]
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April 8, 2023
This issue of Policy Watch is on the theme Environment, Natural Resources and Sustainability. This issue of the policy watch primarily discusses development and ecological issues in the Indian Himalayan Region. Moreover, it brings articles on issues related to water sustainability, biodiversity and their implication in our social and political interactions. The first article is […]
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March 30, 2023
The Aajeevika Samvardhan Abhiyan (ASA), launched by the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation post-COVID, aimed to revive rural livelihoods by fostering micro-entrepreneurship across 30 districts in 8 states. The project led to a significant rise in employment and income, especially among women. Most AMEs self-financed their ventures, and ASA's mentorship, skill training, and support enabled income growth, enterprise diversification, and improved rural resilience.
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March 30, 2023
The hustle economy in India, encompassing gig workers and micro-entrepreneurs, drives employment for over 80% of the workforce. Despite challenges like job insecurity, low income, and limited benefits, it offers flexibility and entrepreneurial opportunities. The study recommends skill development, social security, digital literacy, and fair wages to transform this informal sector into a sustainable source of livelihoods and growth.
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March 30, 2023
Urban youth in Chhattisgarh face significant employment challenges, including high unemployment, skill mismatches, and limited formal opportunities. Despite educational aspirations, many remain jobless or underemployed. Service sectors dominate employment, but most jobs are low-skilled and unstable. Government programs support skill development and entrepreneurship, yet gaps in training quality, industry alignment, and access to information hinder effective job placement and economic inclusion.
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March 19, 2023
This issue of Policy Watch deals with the theme Growth with Employment. In particular, we focus on the issue of youth unemployment. India also has the second largest labor force in the world, with 476.6 million workers. India is slated to become the third-largest economy, surpassing Japan and Germany, by 2028, if not earlier. Despite […]
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February 28, 2023
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) transformed India’s fiscal federalism through a consensus-driven process, merging central and state taxes into a unified structure. While initially hailed as a cooperative achievement, GST has since faced declining revenue buoyancy, administrative challenges, and strained Centre-State relations over compensation. Reforms are needed to restore state autonomy, ensure equity, and strengthen the GST Council’s role.
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February 27, 2023
This paper examines India’s inter-governmental fiscal relations within a federal framework, focusing on the Finance Commissions, Planning Commission, Centrally Sponsored Schemes, and the Goods and Services Tax (GST). It explores the constitutional foundations, mechanisms of fiscal transfers, evolving central-state dynamics, and contemporary challenges. Key issues include GST-induced state revenue constraints, rising cesses, and weakening fiscal autonomy of states amid growing central control.
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February 23, 2023
Groundwater is the lifeline of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, providing water for farming and daily needs. But overuse, falling water tables, and fluoride contamination are putting this precious resource at risk. Despite laws like the Andhra Pradesh Water, Land, and Trees Act (APWALTA), enforcement remains weak, and groundwater use continues unchecked. However, local communities have […]
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February 20, 2023
महात्मा गांधी और उत्तर प्रदेश का संबंध गहरा और ऐतिहासिक था। यह राज्य स्वतंत्रता संग्राम का प्रमुख केंद्र रहा, जहां उनके विचारों ने समाज को जागरूक किया। प्रयागराज, वाराणसी, लखनऊ, कानपुर और मेरठ जैसे शहरों में उनकी उपस्थिति ने सत्याग्रह, अहिंसा, स्वदेशी और राष्ट्रीय एकता के विचारों को मजबूत किया। गांधीजी पहली बार 1896 में […]
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February 18, 2023
We bring out the monthly Policy Watch on each of these themes sequentially and every sixth issue is a Special Issue, where we carry articles from each theme. The previous issue was on the theme Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions which covered the Bharat Jodo Yatra, arguable a significant attempt to protect and promote Constitutional […]
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January 24, 2023
Gujarat’s groundwater situation is at a crossroads. While it remains a lifeline for agriculture and daily needs, over-extraction, dropping water tables, and increasing salinity are causing serious concerns. The lack of strong regulations and sustainable management practices has led to growing water stress. However, hope lies in innovative, community-led initiatives that are successfully replenishing groundwater […]
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January 8, 2023
The January 2023 issue of Policy Watch is centered on the theme Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions, focusing on the growing threat to these pillars of Indian democracy. The issue explores the Bharat Jodo Yatra, led by Rahul Gandhi, as a significant response to this democratic crisis. The articles, drawn from various sources, trace the […]
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December 30, 2022
Healthy soil sustains life, yet 29% of India’s land suffers degradation from erosion, nutrient loss, and unsustainable farming. Soil health impacts food security, biodiversity, and climate resilience. Measures like watershed development, organic practices, and the Reclamation of Problem Soils scheme are vital. Urgent action is needed to restore soil and achieve India’s goal of rehabilitating 26 million hectares by 2030.
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December 30, 2022
India’s unemployment crisis stems from structural inequalities, market-driven policies, and elite-centric development. The report calls for a paradigm shift through a “Right to Work,” investment in social sectors, technology regulation, and micro-sector support. Full employment is feasible, self-financing, and essential for equity, sustainable growth, and constitutional justice, aiming to transform India into a more democratic and humane society.
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December 30, 2022
Cooperative societies embody mutual aid and democratic control, strengthened by the 97th Constitutional Amendment granting them fundamental status. However, the Supreme Court restricted its application to multi-state cooperatives, citing lack of state ratification. Despite this, the amendment’s principles of autonomy, transparency, and professional management remain central to reforming cooperatives and balancing state powers with national interests.
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December 29, 2022
This special issue explores critical themes shaping India’s policy landscape, weaving together legal, economic, environmental, and geopolitical perspectives. It begins with an analysis of India’s cooperative laws, focusing on the 97th Constitutional Amendment, which was partially struck down by the Supreme Court for overstepping into state jurisdiction. A podcast discussion further examines proposed reforms to […]
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December 18, 2022
Uttar Pradesh relies heavily on groundwater, with over 75% of its agriculture and 80% of drinking water needs depending on it. However, unregulated extraction is pushing the state towards a crisis, with nearly 138 regions classified as overexploited or critical. The gap between water demand and availability is widening, especially in rainfed regions like Bundelkhand […]
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November 21, 2022
Assam’s groundwater is under growing pressure, even though it remains within safe limits for now. Agriculture is the biggest consumer, and with rainfall patterns shifting, more farmers are turning to groundwater for irrigation. While the state has plenty of surface water, inefficient recharge methods, lack of strong policies, and pollution issues are raising concerns. The […]
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November 9, 2022
This edition of Policy Watch explores India’s evolving global role, focusing on its leadership in the G-20 and SCO, as well as its strategic engagements in the Quad and I2U2 (“New Quad”). G-20 Presidency: India assumed the G-20 Presidency in December 2022, prioritizing sustainable growth, SDGs, climate action (LiFE), digital infrastructure, multilateral reforms, and women’s empowerment. Challenges include […]
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October 30, 2022
उत्तराखंड के वन संसाधनों पर नियंत्रण और स्थानीय अधिकारों के संघर्ष का इतिहास पुराना है। हेलंग गांव की महिलाओं ने वन भूमि पर पारंपरिक अधिकारों की रक्षा के लिए THDC का विरोध किया। 15 जुलाई 2022 की घटना ने जल, जंगल और जमीन पर स्थानीय समुदायों के हक को लेकर एक नया जनआंदोलन खड़ा किया।
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October 30, 2022
PRADAN’s tank and pond restoration initiative in Tamil Nadu revitalized water sources across four districts, enhancing irrigation, drinking water, fisheries, and biodiversity. Over 240 hectares were restored, benefiting 650 farmers and 3,500 households. Community involvement, revival of traditional water practices, and low-cost, high-impact interventions improved livelihoods, ensured water security, and revived ecological balance in semi-arid regions.
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October 30, 2022
The Indian Sundarbans face severe climate challenges including rising salinity, unpredictable flooding, and migration pressures. Amphibious Living Opportunities (ALO) are proposed as adaptive solutions—combining resilient housing, diversified climate-adapted livelihoods, and community-driven initiatives. These include disaster-resilient farming, fisheries, and cooperative efforts supported by capital, technology, and institutional partnerships—aiming to secure sustainable futures for vulnerable island communities.
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October 29, 2022
This issue of Policy Watch is dedicated to the theme of Environment, Natural Resources, and Sustainability, presenting five articles that collectively address sustainable development solutions, future pathways for sustainability, and the importance of integrating people’s voices in environmental decision-making. The first two articles focus on region-specific sustainable solutions in India. The article by Vijay Mahajan and SS […]
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October 23, 2022
Maharashtra is heading toward a serious groundwater crisis. Though it remains the primary source of water for farming and drinking, the state is withdrawing more than it can replenish. Groundwater meets over 70% of irrigation needs and 85% of rural drinking water demand, but increasing over-extraction, weak enforcement of policies, and erratic rainfall are pushing […]
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September 21, 2022
West Bengal’s groundwater situation is complex and increasingly under stress. The Sundarbans are facing rising salinity, making fresh water scarce. In the Himalayan foothills, springs that once provided steady water flow are now drying up, impacting both drinking water and farming. The Red Lateritic Zone in western West Bengal struggles with low groundwater availability and […]
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September 19, 2022
This issue of Policy Watch centers on the theme “Growth with Employment,” beginning with an obituary for the eminent economist Abhijit Sen. Sen’s work was foundational in shaping Indian policies on agriculture, food security, and social sectors. He was instrumental in the development of the minimum support price (MSP) system for farm produce and advocated for a […]
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August 22, 2022
Rajasthan is facing a serious water crisis. With low rainfall, extreme heat, and heavy groundwater extraction, many areas are running out of water. More than 62% of the state’s groundwater blocks are classified as over-exploited or critical, meaning they are using more water than can be naturally replenished. In many regions, groundwater is not just […]
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August 20, 2022
This issue is on the theme, Governance and Development. In our view, Governance covers the Executive functions of the State, which involve execution of constitutional, legislative and at times judicial mandates. Thus, matters related to law and order, welfare and development, and specific programmes and their financing through tax revenues are all part of governance. […]
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August 4, 2022
Tamil Nadu is facing a serious groundwater crisis due to over-extraction, climate change, and poor water management. The state uses 82.9% of its available groundwater annually, putting it among the most water-stressed states in India. Irrigation alone consumes 92% of the total groundwater, causing water tables to drop drastically in many areas, especially in northern […]
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July 15, 2022
The July 2022 issue of Policy Watch focuses on the theme Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions, anchored in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution—Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic—each explored through a dedicated article. The article on Sovereignty by Anshuman Behera highlights internal and external threats, including extremism and communal violence, and critiques the state’s need […]
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June 30, 2022
राष्ट्रीय सद्भावना यात्रा 2022 उत्तराखंड में भाईचारे, सामाजिक न्याय, पर्यावरणीय चेतना और लोकतांत्रिक संवाद को लेकर 8 मई से 20 जून तक चली। 4500 किमी से अधिक की इस यात्रा में 200 से अधिक सभाएं हुईं और 10,000 लोगों से संवाद हुआ। इसने सामाजिक विघटन, पर्यावरणीय संकट, पलायन और भ्रष्टाचार जैसे मुद्दों पर गहन विमर्श प्रस्तुत किया।
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June 30, 2022
Maharashtra's groundwater is under stress due to over-extraction, rising demand, and declining recharge. With 75% of irrigation and 85% of rural drinking water dependent on it, sustainable management is vital. Assessments show increasing semi-critical and critical zones. Diverse geology complicates planning. Future strategies must balance supply augmentation with demand regulation, supported by accurate data and improved policy frameworks.
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June 30, 2022
Bihar faces acute environmental and socio-economic challenges—76% of North Bihar is flood-prone, yet many districts suffer water scarcity. Forest cover is low, and land is under pressure. Social vulnerability is high, with 73% rural households deemed deprived. Educational and health outcomes lag, while per capita income and industrial growth remain low despite positive GSDP trends and investment efforts.
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June 9, 2022
This is a special issue in which we carry one article on each theme. On the first theme, we carry a report on the recently concluded Rashtriya Sadbhavana Yatra, Uttarakhand, which covered nearly the whole state in a 45-day period. The objective of the Yatra was to spread Sadbhavana (mutuality, sincere fellow-feeling) as it is the […]
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May 29, 2022
This issue of Policy Watch presents a digest of articles examining India’s evolving foreign relations within the multilateral context of G-20, BRICS, and the QUAD, especially amid current global tensions like the Ukraine war and the India-China border conflict. Curated by RGICS Senior Visiting Fellow Prof. Somnath Ghosh, the collection opens with an article by […]
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April 30, 2022
The village of Payvihir in Maharashtra transformed from a struggling tribal settlement facing water scarcity and migration into a self-sustaining eco-village. Through community mobilization, Forest Rights Act (2006), and convergence of schemes like MGNREGA and JFM, villagers regenerated degraded forests, revived agriculture, ensured water access, and built sustainable livelihoods, becoming a model for decentralized, participatory forest and village development.
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April 30, 2022
Maska village in coastal Gujarat faced severe groundwater depletion and salinity. Through a participatory groundwater management project by ACT, interventions like recharge structures and check dam restoration improved water levels and halved salinity within a year. This low-cost, community-driven initiative successfully blended traditional knowledge with science, ensuring year-round drinking water security and a sustainable groundwater future.
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April 30, 2022
The Indian Sundarbans, home to 4.5 million people and diverse wildlife, face acute freshwater scarcity due to overexploitation of groundwater, salinity intrusion, and erratic monsoons. Agriculture and drinking needs rely heavily on deep tube-wells, depleting aquifers. Participatory groundwater management and Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) models offer potential for sustainable water use through rainwater recharge and community-led solutions.
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April 23, 2022
This issue of Policy Watch is on the theme Environment, Natural Resources and Sustainability. Under this, we have been studying Jal, Jangal and Jameen (water, forests, and land) as the basis of livelihoods of rural and tribal people. This issue of Policy Watch brings three different locally appropriate solutions for groundwater management from the Indian […]
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March 30, 2022
The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, launched in 2020, aims to boost domestic manufacturing, attract investment, reduce imports, and enhance exports. Offering 4–6% incentives on incremental sales, it covers sectors like electronics, pharmaceuticals, and telecom. With projected investments over ₹1 lakh crore, the scheme targets creating 84 lakh jobs and transforming India into a global manufacturing hub.
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March 30, 2022
India's sports goods industry, centered in Jalandhar and Meerut, is over a century old, labour-intensive, and export-driven. Despite global competition, especially from China, it remains a key exporter of items like inflatable balls and cricket gear. The Jalandhar cluster, mainly comprising small enterprises, faces challenges like lack of branding, poor collaboration, and limited institutional support.
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March 30, 2022
India faces the urgent challenge of creating 12 crore “decent” jobs by 2030 amid slow employment growth and environmental degradation. Key strategies include regenerating natural resources, promoting diversified agriculture, expanding small enterprises, boosting rural and small-town employment, and prioritizing jobs for youth, women, and semi-skilled workers. This requires significant public-private investment and inclusive, sustainable policy reforms.
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March 9, 2022
This issue of Policy Watch cuts across several of the above themes and deals with the theme Growth with Employment. The first article is by Vijay Mahajan, Director, Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Contemporary Studies titled, A Strategy for Job Creation in the 2021-30 Decade. He states that the challenge of this decade is to not […]
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February 27, 2022
The 73rd Constitutional Amendment established Panchayati Raj, fostering grassroots democracy with over 260,000 local bodies and 3.1 million representatives, including 1.4 million women. Despite progress in representation, challenges persist: limited devolution of powers, financial dependence, bureaucratic dominance, and weak institutional capacity. Strengthening fiscal autonomy, devolving functions, and empowering Panchayats are essential for effective local governance and inclusive development.
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February 14, 2022
The first article is a Review of the Status of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment on Panchayati Raj in 1922 by RGICS Senior Research Associate, Arnab Bose. It has been 30 years since a major step was taken by the Parliament to establish and strengthen the third tier of elected government at the local level. As […]
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January 9, 2022
In this issue we publish five articles, one each on the state of Justice, Liberty and Equality and two on Fraternity in India. All the articles are taken from authoritative reports/articles by various organisations/writers and they are gratefully acknowledged. The first article is based on the India Justice Report, 2020, which was published by a […]
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December 29, 2021
This special issue presents a collection of articles across five key themes, offering insights into governance, development, and sustainability in India. Under Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions, an article by Dr. Shashidharan highlights the importance of decentralized governance, drawing from an RGICS study on high-performing Gram Panchayats. The piece features a case study of Kukma Gram Panchayat […]
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November 30, 2021
Uttar Pradesh (UP) is grappling with deep-rooted socio-economic challenges. Poverty is rising, income inequality is growing, and the gap between different regions is widening. More people are moving back to agriculture, but not out of choice—it’s due to a lack of better opportunities. Educated unemployment has surged since 2017-18, and many jobs that exist are […]
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November 15, 2021
This issue of Policy Watch focuses on the theme of Environment, Natural Resources, and Sustainability. It features six articles addressing diverse environmental challenges and responses. The first article, by Ridhi Shah of EdelGive Foundation, originally published on IDR Online, covers the COP26 summit held in Glasgow (Oct 31–Nov 12, 2021), emphasizing the importance of this […]
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October 26, 2021
To make a desired difference, implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016 must improve. This means speeding up administrative processes, ensuring better access to benefits, and investing in awareness campaigns. Most importantly, PWDs must be actively involved in shaping policies that affect them. The law is a solid foundation, but real […]
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October 26, 2021
This issue of Policy Watch cuts across several of the above themes and deals with the theme Governance and Development. The RGICS has been conducting study of award winning Panchayats all over the country to understand what distinguishes their leadership and institutional processes from the others. While the study is ongoing, we also looked at […]
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September 20, 2021
This issue of Policy Watch cuts across several of the above themes and deals with the theme Growth with Employment. The first article gives an overview of the employment situation in India in 2021. In it, Prof. Santosh Mehrotra, Visiting Faculty at the University of Bath, UK, highlights the fact that in 2017-18 the NSO […]
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August 29, 2021
The RGICS study examines ten key rights-based laws enacted between 2004 and 2016—including the RTI Act, MGNREGA, RTE Act, and Food Security Act—which collectively form a transformative “Bill of Rights” for India’s marginalized citizens. These laws codified previously implied constitutional rights (like livelihoods under Article 19(c) and life under Article 21) into justiciable entitlements, advancing […]
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July 31, 2021
India’s relations with neighbours rest on trade, security and infrastructure but are shaped by politics, nationalism and China’s influence. Ties with Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Maldives, Mauritius and Myanmar reveal progress in connectivity, defence, and development, yet disputes over borders, water, migrants and domestic politics persist. Managing perceptions and soft power remains India’s biggest diplomatic challenge.
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July 31, 2021
Afghanistan’s evolving crisis after U.S. withdrawal and Taliban’s rise deeply impacts India’s strategic choices. Historically invested through aid, infrastructure, and soft power, India now faces Pakistan’s proxy influence and China’s growing presence. Security threats, especially spillover into Kashmir, complicate matters. To safeguard interests, India must adapt—balancing non-engagement with pragmatic outreach to the Taliban while sustaining development partnerships.
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July 30, 2021
India’s healthcare sector is growing rapidly, but its reliance on imported medical equipment remains a major challenge. Over 80% of medical devices- ranging from basic thermometers to high-end MRI machines-are brought in from other countries, mainly China and the U.S. This dependence not only increases costs but also slows down access to critical healthcare solutions. […]
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July 24, 2021
This issue of Policy Watch begins with an overview article on India’s relations with its neighborhood countries—SAARC and SAARC+, including Myanmar and Mauritius—providing context to examine recent developments. Notably, despite the “Neighbourhood First” policy being a declared priority of the government, these relationships have seen deterioration. The second article delves into India’s relationship with Afghanistan, particularly in […]
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June 30, 2021
India’s labour laws on migrant, construction, and unorganised workers, though enacted decades ago, remain poorly implemented, leaving millions vulnerable. The 2020 labour codes subsume these laws but risk diluting protections like welfare funds and registration. Weak enforcement, diversion of funds, and bureaucratic inefficiency deepen hardships, as seen during COVID-19, exposing migrant workers’ precarity and the urgent need for effective safeguards.
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June 30, 2021
India’s labour laws, marked by complexity and weak enforcement, hinder both worker protection and firm growth. With over 140 central and state laws, inconsistent definitions, and rigid rules, businesses remain small while workers face insecurity, low wages, and poor welfare. Recent reforms aim to consolidate laws into four codes, seeking simplification, transparency, and balance between rights and economic growth.
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June 30, 2021
India’s workforce is largely unorganized, with most workers lacking job security, fair wages, and social protection. The informal sector dominates employment but suffers from poor conditions, low productivity, and wage inequality. COVID-19 highlighted these vulnerabilities, making labour reforms urgent. Ensuring inclusivity, safeguarding worker rights, and bridging rural–urban and gender disparities are central challenges for India’s evolving labour landscape.
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June 30, 2021
The 2020 Labour Codes consolidated several laws into four codes on wages, industrial relations, social security, and occupational safety. While aiming at simplification, they exclude most informal and migrant workers, weaken collective bargaining, and leave crucial issues to government rule-making. Critics argue these codes reduce protections, risk exploitation, and lack credible mechanisms for ensuring workers’ rights and security.
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June 30, 2021
India’s four Labour Codes consolidate 29 laws into reforms on wages, industrial relations, social security, and occupational safety. They simplify compliance, ease hiring and retrenchment, and extend coverage to gig and platform workers. However, exclusions of informal workers, low minimum wages, over-delegation of powers, and weakened collective bargaining raise concerns over labour rights and protection.
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June 23, 2021
उत्तराखंड की वन पंचायत प्रणाली लंबे समय से स्थानीय समुदायों द्वारा जंगलों के संरक्षण और प्रबंधन का एक सफल मॉडल रही है। लेकिन वन अधिकार अधिनियम (FRA), 2006 लागू होने के बावजूद, सामुदायिक वन अधिकार (CFR) और व्यक्तिगत वन अधिकार (IFR) पूरी तरह से मान्यता प्राप्त नहीं कर सके हैं। वन विभाग का बढ़ता नियंत्रण […]
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June 10, 2021
This issue of Policy Watch cuts across several of the above themes and deals with the issue of Labour Rights and affirmative action in terms of protecting them against exploitation as well as ensuring fair wages, decent benefits and safe working conditions. The enactment of the Four Labour Codes in 2020, by combining as many […]
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May 30, 2021
India’s mining sector, rich in minerals, drives economic growth but causes severe environmental damage, health risks, and livelihood disruptions in affected regions. The District Mineral Foundation (DMF), created under the 2015 Act, seeks to channel mining revenues for welfare and ecological restoration. However, uneven performance, bureaucratic control, and limited community participation hinder its effectiveness, demanding decentralized, people-focused governance.
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May 30, 2021
The Bodoland Territorial Region in Assam, home to diverse communities, sustains itself largely on agriculture and common property resources like forests, water, and land. Traditional institutions such as Village Committees and Dong Committees manage ponds, paddy fields, and irrigation canals. Despite their potential, inefficient management and shrinking commons are forcing distress migration, highlighting the urgent need for regeneration and sustainable practices.
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May 30, 2021
The Forest Rights Act (FRA), extended to Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, faces challenges in implementation. In Tarzoo, Baramulla, four panchayats invoked FRA provisions to stop unscientific municipal waste dumping near Wular Lake, a Ramsar site. Despite resolutions, authorities continue dumping, violating biodiversity, wetland, and waste management laws, threatening ecology, wildlife, and community rights.
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May 30, 2021
The Chamoli glacier disaster of 2021 highlighted the dangers of unchecked hydropower expansion in Uttarakhand. Despite assurances of energy, revenue, and jobs, projects have worsened floods, landslides, and ecological loss. Studies show biodiversity destruction and fragile geology under strain. The vision of “Urja Pradesh” has largely failed, leaving communities vulnerable and the Himalayan environment deeply threatened.
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May 29, 2021
Public services in India have long been plagued by delays, inefficiency, and red tape. The Right to Public Services (RTPS) Acts, passed by various states, aim to change that by ensuring timely and accountable service delivery. These laws set deadlines for issuing documents like birth certificates, ration cards, and driving licenses while imposing penalties on […]
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May 25, 2021
Suguna Foods has completely changed the game for poultry farmers in India. By introducing contract farming, the company has helped thousands of farmers earn a stable income without worrying about market ups and downs. What started as a small family-run farm in Tamil Nadu has now grown into a ₹9,000 crore business, working with 40,000 […]
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May 25, 2021
The Kesla Poultry story is a powerful example of how small efforts can create big changes. What started as a simple idea—helping tribal women earn a stable income -has turned into one of India’s largest poultry cooperatives. These women, once daily wage laborers, now run a multi-million-rupee business, proving that financial independence can change lives. […]
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May 10, 2021
This issue is on the theme, Environment, Natural Resources and Sustainability. This Policy Watch carries four articles on different issues pertaining to environment and natural resources in India. The first article by Mr. Jeet Singh, Fellow, RGICS, critically analyzes the development slogan of Himalayan state Uttarakhand—the ‘Urja Pradesh’. The article attempts to assess gains envisaged […]
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May 1, 2021
This document compares two poultry models—Kesla and Suguna—focusing on how they help farmers earn a living and improve their financial stability. The Kesla model operates as a cooperative, designed to support small and marginal farmers, particularly women, by providing them with access to shared resources and financial assistance. On the other hand, Suguna follows a […]
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April 2, 2021
The Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006 was meant to give tribal and forest-dwelling communities legal ownership over the land and resources they have used for generations. However, in Western Odisha, the process has been slow and uneven. While Odisha has made progress in granting Individual Forest Rights (IFR), the recognition of Community Forest Rights (CFR) […]
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April 2, 2021
The District Mineral Foundations (DMFs), established under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Act of 2015, were intended to transform mining’s harmful impacts into positive development for local communities. Despite accumulating large funds, the initiative faces serious challenges due to weak governance, bureaucratic delays, and a lack of meaningful community involvement, particularly in […]
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March 15, 2021
This issue of Policy Watch carries the overview chapter of the State of India’s Livelihoods (SOIL) Report, 2020, which was edited by Vijay Mahajan, Director, RGICS. The SOIL Report is released every year at the Livelihoods India Summit organised annually by Access Development Services, New Delhi. This year the Summit was virtual and was held […]
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February 27, 2021
Social security in India is vital to protect vulnerable workers from poverty, illness, and unemployment. The Unorganised Workers’ Social Security Act, 2008 sought to extend welfare to informal labour, but structural gaps, weak implementation, and low funding limit its reach. With over 90% of workers in the unorganised sector, stronger policies, accountability, and resources are urgently needed
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February 27, 2021
The Forest Rights Act (2006) sought to restore traditional rights of forest dwellers over land, resources, and community forests, addressing centuries of marginalization. However, poor implementation, frequent claim rejections, bureaucratic hurdles, and attempts to dilute its provisions have limited its impact. Strengthening MoTA, empowering gram sabhas, and ensuring transparent processes remain crucial for realizing its goals
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February 27, 2021
The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, born from grassroots movements like MKSS, empowered citizens to fight corruption and demand transparency. Despite millions of applications annually, challenges persist—government-controlled appointments, delays, weak enforcement, lack of diversity, rural-urban divide, and violence against activists. Amendments and poor implementation threaten autonomy, making reforms essential to strengthen accountability and protect whistleblowers.
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February 27, 2021
MGNREGA, launched in 2006, is India’s landmark rights-based employment scheme, guaranteeing rural households 100 days of work. It increased incomes, women’s participation, and asset creation, but faces challenges like low wages, delayed payments, inadequate funding, and centralisation. During the COVID-19 crisis, it became a vital lifeline for migrants and rural workers, demanding stronger support and reforms.
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February 27, 2021
The Right to Education (RTE) Act, enacted in 2009, marked a milestone in making education a fundamental right for children aged 6–14. While enrolments have increased, challenges persist—low participation of marginalized groups, gender disparities, poor learning outcomes, teacher shortages, weak infrastructure, and inadequate funding. COVID-19 further deepened inequalities, highlighting urgent need for reforms, accountability, and inclusive implementation
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February 19, 2021
The RGICS study examines ten landmark rights-based laws enacted between 2004 and 2016—including the RTI Act, MGNREGA, Forest Rights Act, and Right to Education Act—which collectively form a transformative “Bill of Rights” for India’s marginalized citizens. These laws codified constitutional principles (like livelihoods under Article 19(c) and life under Article 21) into enforceable entitlements, advancing […]
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February 1, 2021
Uttarakhand, with its rich forests and biodiversity, has faced an ongoing battle between development and conservation. While compensatory afforestation under CAMPA (Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority) was meant to offset deforestation caused by infrastructure projects, challenges like mismanagement of funds, lack of land for afforestation, and slow implementation have limited its impact. Major […]
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January 31, 2021
Manual scavenging, rooted in caste-based discrimination, continues in India despite bans under the 1993 and 2013 Acts. Loopholes, poor enforcement, faulty data, and inadequate rehabilitation hinder eradication. Unsafe conditions cause frequent sewer deaths, while administrative neglect and societal apathy perpetuate this inhuman practice, denying dignity, safety, and livelihood security to marginalized communities.
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January 30, 2021
ADATS, a grassroots NGO in Karnataka, has supported over 55,000 peasant families for 44 years through education, health, agriculture, and climate initiatives. During the COVID-19 crisis, it tackled fear, poverty, crop loss, and halted schooling while reinforcing unity through the Coolie Sangha. Its work showcases community-driven resilience and sustainable rural development amid unprecedented challenges.
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January 30, 2021
We bring out the monthly Policy Watch on each of these themes sequentially and every sixth issue is a Special Issue, where we carry articles from each theme. This issue is on the theme, Governance and Development. The first article by Arun Maira, former Member of the Planning Commission, talks about “the listening deficit.” He […]
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December 30, 2020
Healthcare in Uttar Pradesh (UP) is in crisis. Hospitals and health centers are understaffed, underfunded, and overwhelmed. The state has some of the highest infant and maternal mortality rates in India, and diseases like Japanese Encephalitis continue to claim lives. Many hospitals lack doctors, specialists, and even basic medical equipment, forcing people to travel long […]
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December 10, 2020
This special issue of Policy Watch features one article under each key theme. Under Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions, Prof. Somnath Ghosh explores the rise of Cultural Populism, a continuation of his earlier work on global populism. He extends the discourse by adding cultural populism to the three existing political ideologies: nationalism, authoritarianism, and majoritarianism. The […]
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November 30, 2020
Despite legal protections, street vendors still face major challenges. Many remain invisible in official records, as government estimates fail to reflect their true numbers. Town Vending Committees, meant to support them, are often dysfunctional or exclude vendors from decision-making. Evictions and extortion persist, forcing vendors to pay bribes or lose their livelihoods. The COVID-19 pandemic […]
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November 10, 2020
This issue of Policy Watch, themed India’s Place in the World, examines India’s evolving foreign relations in the context of rising tensions with China and its positioning between global powers like the U.S. and Russia. The issue opens with Gen. H.S. Brar’s article “The New Great Game,” which advocates for a bold settlement of border […]
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October 11, 2020
The document explores how Chhattisgarh can become a high-tech power electronics manufacturing hub, focusing on Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology as a game-changer for India’s electronics and semiconductor industry. Currently, India relies heavily on imports for key semiconductor components, especially from China. With rising demand for electric vehicles (EVs), solar energy, and data centers, building a […]
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October 10, 2020
This issue of Policy Watch is on the theme Environment, Natural Resources and Sustainability (ENR&S) and it focuses on issues pertaining to the degradation of natural resources and their social, economic, cultural and ecological consequences. Continuing with our research work on COVID-19, the first article by Jeet Singh, Fellow, RGICS, and Gautam Bandopadhyay, Environmental Activist, […]
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September 11, 2020
Despite various shortcomings of Bhudan and Gramdan, the core idea of these movements—shared land, shared responsibility—remains powerful. In today’s world, where land inequality is still a pressing issue, modern cooperatives, community farming, and sustainable land policies could revive this spirit. The movements may not have fully succeeded, but their message of kindness, fairness, and shared […]
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September 10, 2020
The first article is a transcript of a speech titled Why the Constitution Matters? by Shri Dushyant Dave, Senior Advocate and President, Supreme Court Bar Association, which was streamed live on 22nd July 2020. It draws attention to the contemporary crisis of confidence in all the important institutions of democratic governance in our country, as […]
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August 10, 2020
Two entwined challenges that continue to prevail during the COVID pandemic are related to governance and economy. Therefore, addressing the need of the time, this issue is the second of the two-part COVID special issues from the themes, Governance and Development, and Growth with Employment. This issue opens with a report by Mr. Vijay Nadkarni, Program Coordinator, RGICS, et al., […]
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August 8, 2020
The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 has been a game-changer for transparency and accountability in India. It has empowered citizens to access government records, demand answers, and expose corruption. However, its effectiveness is now under threat. Long delays in responses, increasing case backlogs, weakening of Information Commissions, and the 2019 amendments that reduced their […]
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July 31, 2020
The Right to Education (RTE) Act, implemented in 2010, was a landmark step towards ensuring free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14 years. Over the past decade, it has increased student enrollment, improved infrastructure, and raised awareness about the importance of education. However, significant challenges remain—high dropout rates, poor learning outcomes, lack […]
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July 10, 2020
Two entwined challenges that continue to prevail during the COVID pandemic are related to governance and the economy. Normally, the Policy Watch theme for this month is Governance and Development, and for the next month would be Growth with Employment. However, we decided that both the July and August issues will cover both themes. This issue begins with a vision piece […]
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June 28, 2020
For millions of rural families across India, MGNREGA isn’t just a policy—it’s survival. Since its launch in 2005, it has provided 100 days of guaranteed work to those in need, reducing poverty, migration, and financial insecurity. It has especially helped women, small farmers, and landless laborers find a reliable source of income. But while the […]
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June 22, 2020
The RGICS Summer School on “Water Crisis and Sustainable Solutions” made it clear: India’s water crisis is urgent, complex, and needs immediate attention. The program’s key takeaway was that tackling water scarcity, pollution, and inefficient management requires practical solutions like rainwater harvesting, water-efficient farming, and community-driven initiatives. It also emphasized that real change can only […]
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June 10, 2020
We bring out the monthly Policy Watch on each of these themes sequentially and every sixth issue is a Special Issue, where we carry articles from each theme. Not surprisingly the overarching topic for this Special Issue is Impact of Covid and Revival Strategies. Under the theme, Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions, the first article […]
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June 1, 2020
India’s trade relationship with China is heavily imbalanced, with India importing far more than it exports. The trade deficit is a major concern, particularly in electronics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial components, where India relies heavily on Chinese imports. While China is India’s second-largest trading partner, its direct investments in India remain relatively low compared to other […]
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May 31, 2020
The report makes one thing clear: the destruction of nature is fueling the rise of dangerous diseases. Around 60% of human infectious diseases originate in animals, and 75% of newly emerging ones—like COVID-19, Ebola, and SARS—jumped from wildlife to humans. Deforestation, urban sprawl, habitat destruction, and the wildlife trade are opening the door for more […]
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May 29, 2020
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 proposes allowing top-ranked foreign universities to set up campuses in India. The goal is to improve education quality, reduce the outflow of students studying abroad, and make India a global education hub. While this move has potential benefits—such as boosting research and teaching standards—it also raises concerns. Questions about […]
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May 10, 2020
This issue of Policy Watch is on the theme India’s Place in the World and it focuses on the first sub-theme – India’s Neighbours – China, SAARC and ASEAN – Trade, Investment and Cultural Relations, with three articles on China, one on SAARC and two on Bangladesh. The first article on China is an interview with Dr. Santosh Mehrotra, Professor of Economics at […]
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May 10, 2020
The COVID-19 lockdown turned thousands of migrant workers into refugees overnight. Stranded in cities with no work, money, or transportation, many had no choice but to begin the long, painful walk back home—some covering thousands of kilometers on foot. Along the way, they faced hunger, exhaustion, and police harassment. Yet, in this darkness, there were […]
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May 5, 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic hit MSMEs hard, with 71% of businesses reporting a 90% drop in revenue. Many struggled with financial stress, low demand, and supply chain disruptions. Despite these setbacks, 80% of business owners believed they could recover within a year, showing remarkable resilience and optimism. While 56% planned to retain their workers, about 25% […]
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May 2, 2020
This study makes it clear that India is facing a serious challenge with land degradation—nearly 30% of its total area is degraded or turning into desert. Despite numerous policies and initiatives aimed at reversing this trend, things are only getting worse. This is bad news not just for the environment and biodiversity but also for […]
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April 26, 2020
Communalism may have deep roots, but with sustained effort, communities can rise above it and build a more harmonious future. Despite, the complexities of the conflict, solutions exist. Local communities have come together through peace committees, interfaith dialogues, and grassroots organizations to prevent violence. These efforts work best when backed by strong civic engagement and […]
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April 19, 2020
The story of Dhulagori Adarsha Vidyalaya (DAV) is one of perseverance, leadership, and the power of education to change lives. When Debasish Mandal took charge as headmaster in 2014, he walked into a school in disrepair—both physically and academically. The classrooms were empty, teachers were often absent, and corruption ran deep, especially in the mid-day […]
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April 12, 2020
The Save a Mother (SAM) Foundation is revolutionizing healthcare in rural India—not by building more hospitals, but by empowering communities with knowledge. Through its Effective Social Persuasion Platform and Program (ESP3), SAM trains local volunteers to educate their communities on maternal health, infant care, reproductive health, and disease prevention. Since 2008, SAM has reached over […]
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April 10, 2020
Our last Policy Watch issue in March 2020 observed the contemporary issue of impact on growth and employment due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The first article was triggered by a discussion between Dr. Chris Beyrer, Professor of Epidemiology at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore, Maryland (USA), and Mr. Vijay Mahajan, Director, RGICS. Later, Ms. Sahibpreet Kaur, Research […]
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April 4, 2020
China has pulled way ahead of India when it comes to developing and promoting medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) globally. Its Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is thriving thanks to strong government support, clear policies, and strategic international marketing. Meanwhile, India’s efforts under the Ministry of AYUSH and the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) are lagging […]
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March 30, 2020
Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) are proving to be a game-changer for small and marginal farmers in India, helping them get better prices for their produce, reduce dependence on middlemen, and improve their market access. However, many FPCs are struggling to scale up due to financial constraints, weak governance, and lack of coordination. The report highlights […]
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March 29, 2020
When India announced a nationwide lockdown with just four hours’ notice, thousands of migrant workers in Tamil Nadu were left stranded. With no income, no food, and no way to return home, many set out on foot, walking hundreds of kilometers in desperation. Government aid was slow, and police often blocked their movement. In this […]
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March 18, 2020
The Jallikattu movement in Tamil Nadu was more than just a protest—it was a powerful expression of cultural pride, people’s politics, and grassroots activism. What started as a fight to save a traditional bull-taming sport quickly became a movement about identity, rural livelihoods, and resistance against external influence. It showed how ordinary people—farmers, students, professionals, […]
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March 10, 2020
This issue of Policy Watch observes the contemporary issue of the impact on growth and employment of the Covid-19 pandemic. We begin by reproducing a brief article from The Guardian, summarising the impact of Covid-19 on the global economy. Moody’s has already indicated the likely implications on the global economy: a degrowth of 0.5%. It […]
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March 3, 2020
Gram Gaurav Sansthan (GGS) has been making impressive strides in helping villages across Rajasthan’s Dang region deal with water scarcity. By building small, community-based water harvesting structures like Pokhars, Taals, and Pagaras, GGS has improved water availability, increased crop yields, and raised groundwater levels in 75 villages. But there’s a long way to go—over 2,000 […]
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March 3, 2020
The Ur River Rejuvenation project in Tikamgarh, Madhya Pradesh, is showing promising progress in reviving the Ur River through a collaborative approach involving government bodies, civil society, and local communities. The project focuses on improving groundwater levels, enhancing agricultural productivity, and promoting sustainable water management practices, with the support of MGNREGA funding. Initial efforts covering […]
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March 2, 2020
Gram Gaurav Sansthan (GGS) has made impressive progress in bringing community-based water harvesting (CBWH) to 75 villages in the Dang region of Rajasthan, transforming the lives of many residents. However, over 2,000 villages are still waiting for help. The main obstacle? Limited resources and poor collaboration with the Dang Development Board (DDB), a government agency […]
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March 2, 2020
This guide highlights how the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) can be better implemented to truly benefit rural communities. Despite its potential, the scheme faces issues like poor community awareness, lack of coordination among stakeholders, and delays in approving and executing plans. These problems prevent the scheme from fully achieving its goal […]
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February 25, 2020
The COVID-19 lockdown revealed major flaws in India’s food security system. While the National Food Security Act (NFSA) was designed to provide affordable food to millions, many people—especially migrant workers—were left struggling to access rations. Outdated data, lack of ration card portability, and supply chain disruptions meant that even government relief efforts failed to reach […]
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February 10, 2020
This issue of Policy Watch observes the contemporary issue of Citizenship. This issue is conceptually important as being a citizen is essential before one can have any constitutional rights or participate in any democratic institutions through elections. And of course, it is of contemporary importance because of the agitations around the country against the CAA. […]
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January 21, 2020
This report highlights the crucial role of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) in Uttar Pradesh, particularly in supporting small and marginal farmers who face persistent challenges such as low incomes, poor market access, and financial difficulties. FPOs offer a collective approach, allowing farmers to negotiate better prices, access credit, and procure inputs at lower costs. Despite […]
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January 12, 2020
India and China are both rich in traditional medicinal knowledge, but China is way ahead when it comes to turning that knowledge into a global business. While India has its Traditional Indian System of Medicine (TISM) under the Ministry of AYUSH, China’s Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has grown into a massive industry, thanks to strong […]
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January 10, 2020
With this January Issue on Governance and Development theme, Policy Watch enters its ninth volume. Health system in India is characterised by shifting disease burden and a low public spending, limited institutional capability, inadequate manpower, geographical disparities and rural urban dichotomy. The first article is “A Critical Overview of the Health System in India” by Yuvraj […]
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December 25, 2019
India has all the ingredients to be a global soft power—rich culture, democracy, a vast diaspora, and the global appeal of Bollywood and yoga—but it hasn’t fully capitalized on these strengths. Compared to countries like the U.S. and China, India struggles with diplomatic outreach and people-to-people connections, which limits its influence. Internal issues like religious […]
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December 21, 2019
India has a massive trade deficit with China—$63.04 billion—because we import far more than we export. The study explores how we can manufacture some of these imported Chinese goods in India, not just to balance trade but also to create jobs. Key sectors like machinery, electronics, textiles, plastics, and rubber have been identified as areas […]
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December 19, 2019
This is our second special issue covering an article each from all themes. The first article from the Governance and Development theme, on “Vision 2020: Are we getting there or have we lost our way?” studies the progress of the nation vis-à-vis the goals and ambitions set for 2020 at the beginning of the millennium. It […]
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November 10, 2019
This edition of Policy Watch is on the RGICS theme of Environment, Natural Resources and Sustainability. The issue brings to you varied discussion on policy history of land regeneration in India, problems and prospect for addressing rural water crisis at district level and climate change led disasters. The first article on India’s commitments and efforts […]
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October 14, 2019
The case study of Kambur Panchayat in Tamil Nadu highlights the power of grassroots mobilisation in strengthening local governance. Youth-led initiatives have significantly increased participation in Gram Sabha meetings, making them a platform for real change. Using tools like the Right to Information (RTI) Act and PRIASoft, these young leaders exposed financial irregularities and demanded […]
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October 10, 2019
This issue is focusing on the theme, Growth with Employment. We are publishing three articles in this issue. The first article gives an overview of the economy—the slowdown in growth and the rise in unemployment—and then argues in favour of investment in human capital, in the form of education, as an urgent solution to the impasse. […]
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September 20, 2019
This edition of Policy Watch is on the RGICS theme of Constitutional Values and Democratic Institutions. The issue brings to you a varied discussion on the psychology of fascism, two contending ideas of nationalism, and human trafficking. The first article is on Ideology – particularly Fascism, whose contemporary variants are resurgent all over the world. […]
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August 30, 2019
The ‘Governance and Development’ theme of the Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Contemporary Studies (RGICS) brings to you this edition of Policy Watch. The issue has three articles from this theme. The first article on Sustainable Development Goals argues that these goals not only represent a new strand in thinking about development, they also require a […]
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August 27, 2019
यह रिपोर्ट बताती है कि मध्य प्रदेश में जल, जंगल और भूमि की स्थिति लगातार खराब हो रही है, और यह स्थानीय समुदायों के जीवन और पर्यावरण दोनों के लिए एक बड़ी चिंता का विषय है। प्राकृतिक संसाधनों का बेहिसाब दोहन, अव्यवस्थित प्रबंधन, और नीतिगत खामियों के कारण वन क्षेत्र घट रहा है, जल स्रोत […]
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August 21, 2019
The workshop on “Regenerating Natural Capital” revealed an urgent need to tackle the degradation of land, water, and forest resources in Madhya Pradesh. Experts agreed that the situation is critical, with soil erosion, water scarcity, and shrinking forests threatening livelihoods and biodiversity. The proposed solution? A collaborative approach called Panchmukhi Samvaay, which brings together government, […]
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July 30, 2019
This issue is a special issue, covering an article each from all themes. The first article from Theme 1, titled, “Increasing Evidence of Attack and Erosion” highlights how there has been an increase in cases of intolerance leading to violence, how state and institutional machinery are under a threat and how the constitutional values of […]
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July 6, 2019
India is growing economically, but jobs aren’t keeping up. Despite strong GDP growth, unemployment is rising, and fewer people—especially women—are part of the workforce. The worker population ratio (WPR) is shrinking, and informal, unstable jobs are becoming more common. At the same time, India has a huge youth population ready to work, but without enough […]
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June 13, 2019
This report emphasizes that water harvesting is crucial to tackle India’s escalating water crisis. Despite having policies aimed at promoting water harvesting, implementation remains poor. A consultation organized by RGICS and Vikas Anvesh Foundation discussed various water harvesting methods, including Farm Ponds in Jharkhand, the Doha Model in Maharashtra, and traditional systems in Rajasthan’s Dang […]
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June 10, 2019
We are happy to bring this edition of Policy Watch focusing on India’s Place in the World, which has the following three sub-themes: i. India’s Neighbours – China, SAARC, BIMSTEC and ASEAN – Trade, Investment and Cultural Relations ii. The Global Rise of Right Wing Populism – Its Impact on India iii. Can Soft Power […]
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May 31, 2019
India’s development is uneven, with some districts thriving while others struggle with poverty, poor infrastructure, and weak governance. The Samarth Zilla Framework argues that the key to solving these issues lies at the district level. Instead of relying on top-down policies that often fail to address local challenges, the framework proposes a more localized, people-centered […]
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May 31, 2019
India’s trade relationship with China is highly skewed, with imports significantly outpacing exports. In 2017-18, India’s exports to China stood at $13.33 billion, while imports reached $76.38 billion, creating a $63.04 billion trade deficit—accounting for 39% of India’s total trade deficit. The report underscores the urgent need for expanding domestic manufacturing, increasing export competitiveness, and […]
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May 30, 2019
The ‘Environment, Natural Resources and Sustainability’ theme of the Rajiv Gandhi Institute for Contemporary Studies (RGICS) brings to you this edition of Policy Watch. The Policy Watch issue has three articles from this theme and one infographic sourced from the Indian Express. The infographic is based on work done by the Intergovernmental Science Policy Platform […]
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May 8, 2019
Rajasthan’s economy is growing, but jobs aren’t keeping up. Over the next five years, 21 lakh new jobs are needed, but under the current trajectory, only 14 lakh will be created, leaving 7 lakh people unemployed. Agriculture still employs 41% of the workforce, but its contribution to the economy is shrinking, meaning many farmers are […]
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April 20, 2019
One of the themes on which we at RGICS work is “Growth with Employment”, and this edition of Policy Watch has four articles from this theme. We start off with an infographic showing a very interesting phenomenon: when we look at economies across the world, we notice that female labour force participation is very high […]
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April 4, 2019
India’s water crisis is escalating fast, and it’s everyone’s problem. With a booming population and reckless groundwater extraction, the country is heading toward a disastrous demand-supply gap—expected to widen by 78% by 2050. Over half of India’s groundwater wells are drying up, and the biggest culprit is agriculture, which consumes a staggering 84% of the […]
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April 2, 2019
The study reveals that the Forest Rights Act (FRA) of 2006, meant to correct historical injustices against tribal communities and traditional forest dwellers, is not being effectively implemented in Chhattisgarh, particularly in the villages of Rawas and Banspattar in Kanker district. Despite filing claims over a decade ago, most families are still waiting for their […]
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April 1, 2019
Chhattisgarh’s economy is growing, but jobs aren’t keeping up. The state needs 15 lakh new jobs over the next five years, but current growth patterns won’t create more than 5 lakh- leaving a massive employment gap. Agriculture still employs most people (74.5%) but contributes just 17% to the economy, meaning many workers are stuck in […]
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November 5, 2018
India has seen impressive economic growth over the past decade, but this hasn’t translated into enough jobs. Between 2019 and 2024, the country needs to create 7 crore new jobs to keep up with a growing workforce and reduce unemployment. Achieving this requires high growth that actually generates employment, ensuring people don’t just have jobs […]
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July 17, 2018
The document highlights three of India’s biggest environmental challenges: plastic pollution, deforestation, and the water crisis. Plastic pollution is a growing disaster. India produces around 5.6 million tonnes of plastic waste every year, with nearly 70% of it turning into trash due to weak waste management systems and poor enforcement of regulations. Urban Local Bodies […]
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April 13, 2018
The Supreme Court’s 2018 ruling on the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 (PoA Act) has sparked widespread concern. By introducing mandatory preliminary inquiries before arrest and allowing anticipatory bail, the decision weakens key protections for SC and ST communities. The ruling, based on concerns over alleged misuse of the law, […]
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March 15, 2018
The Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018 was introduced to prevent financial criminals from escaping justice by fleeing the country. It allows the government to seize assets of offenders if they refuse to return for trial. While the bill strengthens legal action, it does little to simplify extradition, places an unfair burden on third parties, and […]
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March 11, 2018
The Chit Funds (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was introduced to improve regulations in the chit fund industry, which remains high-risk and vulnerable to fraud. While chit funds provide an essential financial alternative, particularly for those with limited access to banks, they have also been the source of several large-scale scams. The Bill aims to introduce greater […]
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March 5, 2018
India’s cities are expanding rapidly, home to nearly 30% of the population and generating over 50% of the country’s economy. However, they are struggling to keep up with this growth. Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) remain underfunded and lack the authority to make independent decisions, leaving essential services like housing, sanitation, and public transport underdeveloped. Citizens […]
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February 13, 2018
The Consumer Protection Bill, 2018 introduces new legal protections for consumers, including class action lawsuits, product liability regulations, and penalties for misleading advertisements. It also establishes the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) to oversee consumer rights violations and unfair trade practices. While these are welcome changes, the Bill has several shortcomings—it fails to clearly define […]
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January 5, 2018
The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Third Amendment) Bill, 2017 aims to give the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) constitutional status, putting it on par with the commissions for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. While the goal is to strengthen the Commission’s ability to address issues faced by socially and educationally backward classes (SEBCs), critics […]
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January 1, 2018
The Unorganised Workers’ Social Security Act, 2008 was meant to be a game-changer for India’s vast informal workforce, which makes up about 94% of the country’s total workers. However, in reality, the Act has largely failed to deliver on its promises. The government has not expanded social security schemes under the Act in the last […]
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December 10, 2017
The Code on Wages Bill, 2017 aims to simplify India’s complex web of wage-related labor laws by merging four outdated acts into one. While the idea is to ensure a national minimum wage and improve compliance, the Bill has sparked criticism for prioritizing business interests over worker rights. It weakens collective bargaining, restricts legal remedies, […]
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December 8, 2017
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017 is a bold attempt to prevent wilful defaulters and shady promoters from gaming the insolvency process by buying back their assets at throwaway prices. But there’s a problem: the ordinance’s overly strict criteria lump everyone together, from outright fraudsters to genuine businesspeople caught in bad economic cycles. […]
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November 11, 2017
India’s current electoral system, First-Past-The-Post (FPTP), is under scrutiny for being overly simplistic and stable yet unfair in terms of representation. It often leaves smaller parties, women, and minorities underrepresented. Proportional Representation (PR) is seen as a fairer alternative, but it lacks stability and weakens the connection between voters and their representatives. To address these […]
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September 21, 2017
Domestic workers in India are among the most exploited and underprotected groups of laborers. Despite their crucial role in households across the country, they lack legal recognition, social security, and basic labor rights. Abuse, exploitation, and poor working conditions are common, especially for women trafficked from rural areas by unregulated placement agencies. Repeated recommendations for […]
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September 15, 2017
The document highlights key issues facing the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). A major finding is that payment delays are widespread, with the government often not calculating compensation for the time between the generation of the Fund Transfer Order (FTO) and the actual crediting of wages to workers’ accounts. An estimated 57% […]
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August 3, 2017
The Central Road Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2017, aims to divert 2.5% of the cess collected on petrol and diesel to fund the development and maintenance of National Waterways. While the government hopes this will boost affordable, eco-friendly transport and create jobs, critics are raising red flags about environmental damage, poor consultation with local communities, and […]
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June 11, 2017
The idea of holding simultaneous elections for national and state legislatures is being pushed as a way to cut costs, reduce election-related disruptions, and make governance more efficient. But there’s a catch: It could end up weakening India’s federal structure, drowning out regional parties, and making the Rajya Sabha almost irrelevant if the same party […]
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June 5, 2017
The Indian government proposes allowing Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) to vote via proxy, a provision previously available only to military personnel. While this could increase NRI participation, it raises concerns about fairness, as millions of internal migrants within India, who also face voting difficulties, are not given the same right. The process lacks clarity on proxy […]
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June 5, 2017
The National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013, was introduced to provide affordable food to two-thirds of India’s population. However, its implementation has been slow and inefficient. Many states have failed to establish grievance redress systems and state food commissions, leaving beneficiaries with no way to claim their entitlements. The government’s push to replace subsidized food […]
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April 20, 2017
The document highlights the devastating impact of the 2017 crackdown on illegal and mechanized slaughterhouses in Uttar Pradesh, a decision made by the Yogi Adityanath government as part of their election promises. While the intent was to regulate illegal operations, the move overlooked the broader economic and social consequences. Uttar Pradesh is India’s largest meat […]
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August 10, 2016
India’s push to welcome foreign universities is shifting higher education from a public good to a market commodity. Allowing profit-making universities could worsen inequality, making quality education even more inaccessible for socially and economically disadvantaged groups. With over 63% of higher education students already in private institutions, rising costs will leave many behind and create […]
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November 9, 2007
Despite its ambitious goals, the implementation of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) of 1996 in Orissa has been largely disappointing. While the Act was designed to empower tribal communities with real control over their resources and cultural rights, weak enforcement, bureaucratic hurdles, and contradictory state laws have crippled its effectiveness. PESA was […]
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June 30, 2005
India and Sri Lanka’s severance pay policies are meant to protect workers, but in reality, they often make it harder for businesses to hire and restructure. Since neither country has an unemployment insurance system, severance pay acts as a crucial safety net for workers who lose their jobs. However, complicated labour laws, high costs, and […]
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May 31, 2005
India has increasingly turned to Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) and Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs) to expand its economic reach, moving away from its earlier reliance on WTO-led multilateral trade liberalization. These agreements help reduce tariffs, open new markets, and boost regional cooperation, but they also bring challenges like complex regulations, trade imbalances, and difficulties for […]
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January 31, 2004
India’s journey with the TRIPS Agreement under the WTO has had a huge impact on its patent system, especially in the pharmaceutical sector. The Doha Declaration (2001) reaffirmed that countries should have the flexibility to protect public health by ensuring access to essential medicines. India has taken advantage of these provisions, using compulsory licensing and […]
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June 1, 2001
The document explores India’s stance at the Fourth WTO Ministerial Meeting in Doha (2001), focusing on the key trade battles between developed and developing nations. It highlights how major economies like the EU and the US pushed to introduce new trade negotiations on investment, competition policy, and environmental and labor standards. However, India and several […]
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June 1, 1998
India’s Foreign Economic Policy (FEP) is evolving rapidly, moving from a self-reliant approach to a more open, market-driven strategy. The document highlights India’s efforts to boost trade, attract foreign investment, and strengthen global economic ties. It also acknowledges key challenges, including stiff competition from China and Southeast Asia, declining foreign aid, and the need for […]
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November 6, 1997
China has surged ahead of India and Pakistan in economic growth, thanks to strong leadership, foreign investment, and strategic trade policies. While all three countries started on a similar footing in the 1950s, China’s pro-market reforms under Deng Xiaoping, along with massive investments from Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia, gave it a significant advantage. […]
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September 1, 1997
For decades, Japan and India maintained a distant relationship due to Cold War alliances, economic isolation, and differing foreign policy approaches. However, in the past few decades, both countries have come to recognize each other’s strategic and economic significance, leading to increased trade, investment, and diplomatic cooperation. While they still have differences, the gap in […]
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November 11, 1995
China and India have taken distinct paths in their economic development, each with its own strengths and challenges. Over the past few decades, China’s rapid industrialization, foreign direct investment (FDI), and export-driven economy have made it a global economic giant. In contrast, India has followed a slower but steady approach, relying on its domestic market, […]
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March 9, 1995
The 1990s were a pivotal decade for India, shaped by economic reforms, shifting global alliances, and security challenges. The collapse of the Soviet Union, India’s key defense and trade partner, forced the country to rethink its foreign policy and build stronger ties with the United States and China. Meanwhile, at home, economic liberalization opened India […]
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RGICS is the division of the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation engaged in the study of contemporary issues. The views represented in the various papers/articles/videos on the RGICS website are those of the respective authors /speakers and do not represent the views of the Trustees of the Rajiv Gandhi Foundation.
