The name Operation Sindoor evokes profound symbolism. Traditionally, sindoor represents a sacred emblem in Indian culture—applied by married women as a sign of devotion and a prayer for their husband's long life. For many, it is also an expression of grace and beauty. However, the significance of this operation goes far beyond its cultural roots.

Launched in response to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Operation Sindoor marks a focused, measured, and non-escalatory action undertaken by the Indian government. Its primary objective is to target terrorist infrastructures located in specific regions of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Pakistan.

Why Is It Significant? India, known globally as a land of peace and diplomacy, is equally capable of exercising rational force when necessary. Despite numerous diplomatic efforts and peace-building initiatives with Pakistan, the results have often been unproductive. Operation Sindoor aligns with a series of prior strategic actions, reinforcing India’s commitment to peace, but also its readiness to act decisively when provoked.

This measured response echoes the legacy of Kautilya, the ancient Indian strategist and the father of diplomacy, who advocated for a balanced approach—where peace is pursued, but force is employed when Dharma and national interest are threatened.

Drawing upon Barry Buzan’s work on security, it's important to recognize how non-traditional threats continue to reshape global and regional dynamics. While terrorism remains a conventional threat in terms of tactics and targets, its driving forces today often emerge from unconventional sources—non-state actors, ideologically motivated groups, and proxy organizations. In this context, Operation Sindoor represents a response to a hybrid threat: militarized non-state actors operating across porous borders, supported—directly or indirectly—by a state that many experts describe as “failing” in its fundamental responsibilities.

The name Sindoor offers a unique lens into the nature and objective of this operation. Despite its normative and cultural associations, the operation is grounded in a pragmatic vision. As developments unfold, India anticipates a concrete and positive outcome, reaffirming its doctrine of responsible power—one that honors peace, yet upholds justice through strategic action.

Raminder Singh Ranger, Baron Ranger, is a distinguished British-Indian businessman and Conservative politician. Founder of the multinational consumer goods company Sun Mark, Lord Ranger has been a member of the House of Lords since 2019.

Born in Gujranwala just before the partition of India, Lord Ranger faced profound early hardships. His father, an outspoken opponent of partition, was assassinated before his birth. His family relocated to Patiala, where his widowed mother raised him along with seven siblings. After completing his BA from Chandigarh, Lord Ranger moved to the UK in 1971 to study law but had to abandon his studies due to financial challenges. From humble beginnings — working at KFC and Currys — he built a remarkable business empire, founding Sea, Air and Land Forwarding in 1987 and Sun Mark in 1995. His companies have earned multiple Queen’s Awards for export excellence. A major Conservative Party donor, Lord Ranger has contributed over £1.5 million and served as co-chairman of Conservative Friends of India.

During his recent visit to India to honour his father Shaheed Nanak Singh, Lord Ranger spoke with Prashant Tewari. The ceremony was chaired by Union Cabinet Minister Mr Hardeep Singh Puri. An Exclusive Conversation with Lord Ranger

Prashant Tewari: Lord Ranger, it’s an honour to have you with us. To begin, how do you view the evolving role of the NRI community in India’s nation-building journey?

Lord Ranger: Thank you, Prashant. It’s a pleasure. The NRI community has always been vital to India’s progress, but today, our role is more strategic. Beyond remittances and real estate, we build global bridges and shape perceptions of India abroad. As India’s stature grows, our responsibility as unofficial ambassadors has increased significantly.

Prashant Tewari: You’ve often championed NRI engagement. What makes this diaspora so influential?

Lord Ranger: It’s a combination of education, enterprise, and emotion. NRIs are among the most educated, industrious communities globally. We carry values of hard work, respect for knowledge, and a deep-rooted connection to Bharat. Across fields like technology, healthcare, and business, we are actively contributing to India’s innovation and growth story.

Prashant Tewari: India’s global ascent is evident. How do you perceive Bharat’s position today?

Lord Ranger: India has become a beacon of resilience and leadership. Whether supplying vaccines to over 100 countries during the pandemic or taking bold stands at global summits, India today speaks with unmatched confidence. The G20 presidency was a landmark moment, showcasing Bharat’s blend of ancient wisdom and modern innovation.

Prashant Tewari: What steps can further strengthen NRI engagement in India's growth?

Lord Ranger: The government’s initiatives like Pravasi Bharatiya Divas are commendable. However, more can be done — establishing NRI think tanks, involving diaspora leaders in policymaking, and simplifying investment procedures. NRIs are eager to contribute; the framework must make it easier and more effective.

Prashant Tewari: Finally, what message would you like to give young Indians around the world?

Lord Ranger: Believe in Bharat. We are at the threshold of extraordinary achievements. With our youthful population, digital edge, and rich cultural heritage, India is poised to lead the world. Whether you are in Mumbai or Melbourne, contribute your skills and values. Nation-building is a shared duty — embrace it wholeheartedly.

Prashant Tewari: Thank you, Lord Ranger, for your inspiring insights.

Spirituality in public service is the quiet alchemy that transforms noble intent, ethics and morality into enduring action. It is the breath behind the robust body of governance, it is the subtle essence that animates the machinery with a purpose beyond mere policy and motion beyond mere mandate. It is the soul of statecraft itself. It silently steadies the hand that signs the decree and guides the eye that envisions the just. The very notion of "service" evokes a commitment that transcends the idea of self-interest. It is an occupation that endeavours to reach out to the many, and especially those who desperately need the support of the state. At the summit of human aspiration lies the service of the masses, which demands not just energy, intellect, and a strong resolve, but a vision. A vision that is shaped by one's character and virtues.

The sheer weight of knowledge too often crowns leadership in public service. Yet knowledge, for all its magnitude, is but a monolith which is shaped by the chisels of experience, compassion and inner values. It is not knowledge alone, but the wisdom born from deeper reflection, that can breathe vision into action and illuminate the path to lasting transformations. The fountain from which such vision flows is not merely intellectual; it is unmistakably spiritual. It is one’s spiritual intelligence that refines perception, steadies purpose, and anchors one in the midst of shifting tides. Without this inner compass, even the most brilliant minds may drift. For them, choices may become burdens, directions may seem to be lost and the once-righteous path may appear cloaked in doubt. Those who serve without this rootedness are often swept away by the very currents they sought to navigate. Their lives echo with contradictions, disillusionment shadows their service and burnout creeps in like dusk on an untended flame. But for those who serve with their soul, who let their spirit guide the hand and conscience shape the will, public service becomes not merely a profession, but a pilgrimage.

Here, I speak of public service in its broadest sense. It is a noble calling that transcends roles and organisation. It includes the civil servant poring over policies with quiet diligence, the politician shaping destinies through decisions, the volunteer extending a hand where hope falters, the social worker standing steadfast where society strains, the diplomat bridging worlds with grace and those in international corridors who labor, often obscurely, for the good of many. Public service is not confined to an office or oath; it is defined by the impact and the echo of one’s actions across the fabric of the community and in the lives of the vulnerable.

In today’s modern world, mere titles and positions no longer define the essence of leadership. It is not the pedestal upon which one stands, but the purpose with which one stands upon it that reveals the true mettle of a leader. Leadership, in its true form, is not bestowed; rather, it is embodied. It is not declared by designation, but discovered in the depth of character, tempered by the fire of conviction and nourished by the quiet strength of spiritual rigour.

Wisdom over knowledge, Spiritual quotient over Intelligence quotient

While the mastery of skills of the profession is essential, it is the architecture of one’s inner world, their beliefs, values and convictions, that truly illuminates the path ahead. It is in the sanctum of the spirit that we find different types of leaders, those who merely command and those who inspire, between tyrants and torchbearers. When skills and knowledge are supplemented by spiritual intelligence, leadership takes on a luminous quality. Such leaders do not simply govern, rather, they stir dormant hopes, they breathe life into collective dreams for a more just and brighter tomorrow. They begin to lead not by domination but by the strength of their vision and the resonance of their integrity.

Such leaders do not rise from ambition, but from alignment of their purpose with the pulse of humanity. They pierce through the encrusted weight of centuries, dissolve the thickened cynicism of unkind eras, and sweep aside the weary fog that numbs the soul of progress. They unshackle tradition not with defiance, but with discernment, gently parting the veils that obscure truth. Their leadership is not confined by creed or caste, geography or generation. Their deeds are not dictated by doctrine, but guided by the quiet compass of conscience. True leaders, when cast into turbulent waters, do not flail. They paddle steadily through murky waters, oars dipped not just in knowledge but in wisdom. They are anchored in principle and the fury of the storm, they become the steady mast to which others cling. Their ethics are not performances scripted for applause, they are reflexes of an inner truth. The source of their strength lies in a deep spiritual intelligence that sees the world not as fragments in conflict, but as extensions of a single sacred tree.

The word ‘spiritus’, from which "spiritual" is born, means "that which gives life." Spirituality is the breath that animates existence with meaning. It is not mere semantics, but a whisper from antiquity reminding us that spirituality is the breath behind being, the unseen wind that stirs the soul into awareness. It is the subtle force that infuses existence with significance, that turns living into life. Spiritual intelligence is not the accumulation of facts nor the refinement of emotion. It is the quiet brilliance that dares to ask life’s ultimate questions and to realise the interconnectedness of all things. I believe we are now going through a spiritual revolution, a renaissance in a way. More and more, people are now seeking not just answers but meaning. That comes by pondering over the purpose of existence and choosing a conscious life. This movement is not propelled by IQ or even EQ, but by the Spiritual Quotient. Humanity is innately spiritual; it only needs the right soil for its truth to flower.

Spirituality of Leaders percolates into their organisation

When a leader is well rooted, his organization or community too begins to blossom spiritually. This gives rise to what I would like to call spiritual capital. Spiritual capital is the guiding light of a group’s purpose, its higher aspirations and its enduring ethos. In public service, such spiritual capital is transformative. It compels us to reimagine leadership not as management, but as moral stewardship. Leaders with spiritual intelligence empower others by connecting them to their deepest values and truths. And when the exhausting flood of stimuli and competing interests threatens to wash away clarity, such leaders hold fast to wisdom and not merely information or knowledge. It is for this reason that I say that a technocrat may improve outcomes, but the wise leader reshapes destiny.

Through such visionaries, the world becomes a more just and inclusive place where dignity is not a privilege, but a right. These leaders endeavour to understand others better. Their compassion is not selective, rather, they embrace difference with reverence. In their presence, public life becomes ordered, measured, accountable and meaningful. Without spiritual intelligence, leadership easily becomes brittle, cold, mechanistic and often deaf to the truths that define the realities of the ground. In a title-oriented leadership model top-down edifice may rise, but it remains detached and the finest intentions within it are rendered inert. We soon begin to observe the symptoms of such crumbling leadership, the fatigue of even the noblest and the burnout of the best. Without a spiritual foundation, systems begin to falter.

Thus, it is the spiritual quotient of a leader that breathes life into the very soul of the institutions, nurturing its spiritual intelligence like roots feeding a sacred tree. From this wellspring of inner clarity and moral compass arises the essence of governance. Governance, perhaps, is a living expression of dharma. It is in this backdrop of dharma that the dream of Ram Rajya once unfurled. Ram Rajya is where leadership is not measured by dominion, but by righteousness in actions, where every act of governance is a sacred gesture, devoted to the people one serves. It is a realm where the arc of action bends unwaveringly towards goodness, where light dispels shadow, justice silences cruelty and the triumph of the noble becomes the essence of the state. In such a state, governance becomes grace in action. It is a realisation of a world where values are lived and not just professed, where power is held in humility and where the masses are uplifted not by decree, but by example. It brings us to a pertinent question. Why is it that some nations and institutions continue to breathe the scent of nobility long after their luminous leaders have gone? The answer lies not merely in memory but in the quiet transference that happens when the spiritual fire kindled by a visionary leader is not extinguished with their absence; rather, it has seeped into the soil of the collective spirit of that nation or institution. Like individuals, civilizations too possess a character that is the moral and spiritual timbre that echoes across generations.

And when this character is nurtured by custodians of higher consciousness, when the waters of wisdom and righteousness nourish it, it transcends the ephemeral. It becomes a legacy. Thus, when a nation’s stewards are held strong in their spiritual intelligence the larger vision endures, and not as a relic, but as a thriving spirit. Such spirit can be deciphered in the legal framework and seen in the actions of its institutions. Public servants with such values and deep-rooted convictions do not merely fulfill duties. They embody the purpose, the vision and the collective desire. Their allegiance is not just to the governing dispensation but to righteousness. They view work not as an obligation but as a sacred contribution to the eternal pursuit of human betterment. Their moral compass is true and their actions are transformative.

Indian wisdom on governance

Such ideas and those rare souls who embody them are not the fading mirage of some distant utopia, nor are they the relics of a bygone age. They are still seen walking among us as luminous reminders that ideals, when lived with integrity, become perceivable truths. Indian traditions of public service are not born from the cold arithmetic of utility or expedience. They emerge from the deep and vibrant springs of Vedantic wisdom, where duty is not divorced from divinity and governance is inseparable from one’s practice of nishkam karma. From these sacred wells emerges Chanakya’s concept of Yogakshema, an idea where the well-being of the people is not confined to material security alone, but enfolds spiritual flourishing as its equal companion. It is not a welfare state as the modern world might imagine it, but a sanctified channeling of human potential, much anchored in dharma. In Chanakya’s Rajrishi, we find the embodiment of a timeless archetype of the philosopher-king. In whom the contemplative stillness of the sage merges with the resolute actions of the sovereign. Rajrishi is a leader who is not driven by power, but guided by purpose and one whose rule is not over subjects, but is in service to the people he owes his existence to. The ancient Indians captured this truth in the phrase Yatha raja, tatha praja (As is the king, so are the people). In its leadership, the nation holds its own reflection; and where the crown is harnessed with the strips of wisdom, such a land blossoms with justice, compassion and fertility.

From the sacred teachings of Yajurveda to the timeless lessons of Mahabharata, our heritage brims with luminous counsel on governance. Yet, over centuries of colonial dominion, this radiant tradition was gradually eclipsed. The flame of insight gave way to the coldness of inert administrative order. Systems once rooted in inner awakening were slowly replaced by machinery that valued efficiency above empathy and obedience over inquiry. The soul of governance, which was once attuned to cosmic rhythm, was tethered to the pulse of colonial utility.

Transforming our education systems

Our education, which was once a sacred rite of passage into wisdom, was hollowed out and reconfigured to produce clerks rather than seekers, accountants rather than accountables, bookkeepers rather than custodians. The grand river of indigenous knowledge was meticulously diluted. Sadly, even today, the echoes of that colonial order still linger in our classrooms, where the syllabus and the methodology remain shackled to the frameworks of those who once sought to subdue us. The spiritual majesty of our intellectual heritage, which was rooted in contemplation, cosmic wisdom and ethical action, is yet to fully return to its rightful place at the heart of our learning.

Nevertheless, the embers remain and in them lies the promise of rekindling a renaissance, not just of thought but of spirit and action. Today India’s spirit stirs yet again, soft as a whisper, ancient and pious as the wind across the Ganga. Like the immortal phoenix, India stands at the cusp of a luminous rebirth of not merely in the realm of power, GDPs and progress, but in the quiet radiance of national spirit. A view in the mirror of the past tells us that our civilisation was one where wisdom once walked as a companion to governance and where the loftiest truths were not whispered in cloisters but sung under open skies.

The way ahead

Today, as scholars across distant shores turn reverently to the Vedas and Vedanta, drawn by their ageless wisdom, we are reminded of what the modern world seeks. It looks towards India for truth, purpose and a place within the cosmos. These are some ideas that our sages pondered long before. The Nasadiya Sukta of the Rig Veda, a hymn dedicated to the mystery of existence, is not a text; rather, it is a trembling of the spirit that aches to know the origin and purpose of it all. It dwelled into the mysteries of existence long before modern science began ruminating upon these ideas. As children of such revered heritage, we have an onus to revive those pious ideas and put them back into the actions of daily governance. The path forward reveals itself not in the noise of technology and quick gains, but in stillness. To ennoble public service once more, we must return to our sacred wellspring. Let India rise not as a colossus of ambition alone, but as a beacon of wisdom, where compassion and eternal light shall illuminate the darkest times of human existence.

The declaration of the Civil Services Examination result is an opportune moment for reflection and contemplation for all. The newly chosen and those who have long toiled treading the hallowed path of service to the nation in the unseen hours, those who have given their youth and their comforts. It is a call of remembrance and renewal for all those for whom the journey has grown weary; for whom the flame flickers and the path appears blurs. Now is the time to pause, not in resignation but in quiet resolve to dust away the sands of time and rediscover the bright guiding light. Let service once again become an offering at the altar of dharma—not celebrated for its grandeur, but revered for its grace, its sincerity and its magnanimous intent. Let every act of governance become an oblation, an inward surrender of the self to the cause of the greater good. Let each decision carry the humility of a prayer and the strength of a vow. Not all fires roar; some burn steadily in silence, and it is this sacred, steadfast fire we must tend. In service, may we find sanctity. In action, may we find awakening and in duty, may we rediscover divinity.

The writer is an officer in the Central Government and presently serving in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India  

“Navaratri is a festival of spiritual renewal celebrated in the spring and fall across India and worldwide when we honor Mother Divine.” Over these nine days, we celebrate the victory of Goddess Durga in all her forms, who vanquishes Mahishasura, representing the demons within us all. Mother dispels the darkness of illusion so that our light shines. During Navaratri, we go inside to discover dimensions of ourselves that we do not normally examine or express. From my perspective, these aspects are extremely critical not just for our transformation but for the planet's evolution.

Before I moved into the path of Brahmacharya, I focused completely on outside goals: getting the best grades in school up until I received my doctorate; billing and selling the most as a consulting psychologist; and earning the most money. When I met my guru over 30 years ago, Her Holiness Jagadguru Sathya Sai Maa Lakshmi Devi, my focus turned completely inward as I started to examine the habits and patterns that covered the truth of who I am, who we all are, in our divinity, in our multidimensionality.

Through Mataji’s teachings, practices, and energetic work, I embraced traits, values, frequencies, and powers that were veiled and hidden up to that point. Prominent among those were aspects of the Divine Feminine, enabling me to achieve greater inner balance and harmony of the masculine and feminine. As I mentioned in another article I wrote during last spring’s  Navaratri, some of these traits include: compassion, tenderness, caring, generosity, devotion, grace, beauty, abundance, authenticity, empathy, and inclusion.

Navaratri serves us now as we move from an old era or cycle based in fear (Kali Yuga) to a new era of truth, of being who we are in our essence as love (Sathya Yuga). As our planet raises in its frequency, and new cosmic energies arrive on the planet, we are required to access those inner love-based, higher frequency qualities of Mother. Finding these hidden treasures is an important reason to celebrate Navaratri for all of us, so we find inner balance and harmony, and spread this in society and on the planet. During this festival, we have the opportunity to focus on those Divine Feminine attributes so our actions are based upon spiritual values, so we serve the greater good of society, and we spread the power of Sanatana Dharma across the planet.

I share here words of Jagadguru Sai Maa about Navaratri:

“I invite you to welcome and to celebrate your inner divine feminine. Celebrating the divine feminine is celebrating life. Bringing balance into life. The blossoming of your potentiality. Yes, Navaratri is dedicated to the feminine divine nature. Nothing exists without the Mother, this feminine aspect. These nine days are dedicated to the balance of the feminine. And then the masculine will take over, the yin yang. It is important to love Mother-Father-Creator within, the parents of the universe. The love out of the limitless, boundless love merges and becomes beloved, and beloved becomes love. Both parents are made, created from the same Shakti. They are to be one, as two is duality.”

During these tumultuous and fast-changing times, we need to harness all our internal power to be flexible, creative and resilient. We are breaking apart the old way of being, what we can call the old paradigm, and we are creating of ourselves and our world a new way of being, a new paradigm. When we take time now during Navaratri to discover and activate our Divine Feminine qualities, we are maximizing our capacity to not just address what we are facing in life, but to create a new world.

Through spiritual practice (sadhana) and sacred ceremonies, Navaratri offers us the opportunity to unlock our inner power and unite us collectively for greater awareness and social transformation. For example, at our Sathya Sai Maa Shaktidhaam Ashram in Kashi, combined with the Shakti and profound energetic work of Jagadguru Sathya Sai Maa, Mataji has arranged for highly reputed pundits to preside over very powerful yagyas or fire ceremonies that are activating energies never experienced before on this planet. We are benefiting from the immense power of Bagalamukhi over nine days, who shatters our obstacles and patterns so we realize the clarity of our truth; and Maha Lakshmi over 2 days, who fills us and our world with abundance and prosperity on all levels.

If you celebrate Navaratri, take time now to reflect on the festival’s impact on your life, and what you are experiencing during this celebration. What is your intent for what you want to transform in yourself and your life through the power and attributes of Durga, Kali, Lakshmi, Saraswati, and other forms of Mother? If you have never celebrated Navaratri, would you like to learn more, perhaps add some Divine Mother practice to your sadhana (a mantra for example)?

On the spiritual path, through dedicated sadhana and the grace of a guru—if we are blessed with one—we awaken to the depths of our true being. We unveil our hidden aspects, embrace our multidimensional nature, and step into our inner power. We maximize our capacity for self-awareness, self-healing, and transformation.

Navaratri offers us an important opportunity to ignite our inner journey. The festival calls upon us to awaken and embody the Divine Feminine energies that reside in us all. It empowers us to harmonize the Divine Masculine and Divine Feminine within, to deepen our sadhana, to come together in unity, and to radiate our collective higher frequency. In this way, we become catalysts for a greater shift. Together, we uplift society and accelerate the emergence of a new era—one rooted in love and illuminated by the boundless grace of the Divine Mother.

Writer Swami Parameshwar Das Maharaj Mahamandaleshwar Mahant 108 is a renowned practitioner of Sanatan Dharma

Sai Maa is a distinguished spiritual luminary, healer, and humanitarian renowned for her unique integration of Eastern spiritual traditions and Western therapeutic methodologies. Born on August 2, 1953, into a Hindu family on the island of Mauritius, Sai Maa exhibited profound spiritual inclinations from an early age. At 21, she relocated to France, where she married a research scientist and became a mother of two. During her time in France, Sai Maa pursued certifications in naturopathy, homeopathy, and osteopathy, establishing a private practice that combined alternative healing modalities with Western therapeutic training. Her commitment to societal well-being extended into politics, serving on the Bordeaux City Council and contributing to healthcare reforms within the European Union. 

A pivotal moment in Sai Maa's spiritual journey occurred in her late twenties when she met Sathya Sai Baba, a revered spiritual leader, and became his devoted disciple. This relationship deepened her spiritual practices and commitment to humanitarian service. In the early 1990s, Sai Maa began offering events and seminars across the United States, leading to the establishment of Humanity in Unity, a non-profit organization based in Boulder, Colorado, in 2000. This organization facilitated educational programs and humanitarian services worldwide for over a decade. She also founded the Temple of Consciousness Ashram in Crestone, Colorado, serving as a global retreat center and the home of her monastic order for seven years. In 2010, Sai Maa directed her monastic community to establish global centers in France, India, Japan, Israel, and South America to disseminate her teachings. 

A synthesis of Eastern spirituality, Western therapeutic knowledge, and energy mastery characterizes Sai Maa's teachings. She emphasizes personal transformation, self-mastery, and the alleviation of human suffering. Her global outreach includes large public events, seminars, and online courses, attracting thousands of students worldwide. She has authored "Petals of Grace: Essential Teachings for Self-Mastery" and contributed to "Grandmothers Counsel the World," reflecting her commitment to global unity and compassion. 

In recognition of her spiritual mastery and humanitarian efforts, Sai Maa was honored with the title of Jagadguru in 2007, becoming the first woman in 2,700 years to receive this distinction in the Vishnuswami lineage. This title, meaning "Guru of the world," acknowledges her role in promoting global enlightenment and the rise of the Divine Feminine. 

Beyond her spiritual teachings, Sai Maa established the Sai Maa Vishnu Shakti Trust in 2007, a registered Indian charity dedicated to various humanitarian projects. These initiatives include a center for women's empowerment, distribution of food, clothing, and medical services to those in need, and disaster relief efforts. In 2009, the Trust acquired property at the Harishchandra Ghat in Varanasi, serving as its national headquarters and housing the Sathya Sai Maa Shaktidhaam Ashram, which opened in 2019. 

Sai Maa's influence extends to global forums, having participated in events with the Dalai Lama and Thich Nhat Hanh, and contributing to international dialogues on religion and modern civilization. Her teachings continue to inspire individuals worldwide, guiding them toward a path of love, compassion, and self-realization.

"She is strength wrapped in grace, resilience in every stride. A dreamer, a doer, a nurturer, a guide. She builds, she heals, she leads with light—A force of courage, love, and might."

Antara Sarkar is the founder of two impactful initiatives—Sunday Class and The Pink Engine. Both projects reflect her deep passion for education, innovation, and social change. Antara is a TEDx Speaker and was honored with the iVolunteer Hero Award in 2022. Here is an extensive interaction with Opinion Express columnist Shakila M. 

Interviewer: Hi Antara, thank you for joining us. Could you introduce yourself to our readers?

Antara Sarkar: Absolutely! I am the founder of two impactful initiatives—Sunday Class and The Pink Engine. Both projects reflect my deep passion for education, innovation, and social change. I’m also a TEDx Speaker and was honored with the iVolunteer Hero Award in 2022.

Interviewer: Let’s start with Sunday Class. What is it, and what inspired you to create it?

Antara Sarkar: Sunday Class is a non-profit initiative that provides STEM education to underprivileged children. Unlike traditional programs, it doesn’t focus solely on academics but serves as a safe space where children can explore robotics, electronics, fashion design, and discuss essential topics like menstruation, LGBTQ+ rights, and child safety.

The idea for Sunday Class came from witnessing the challenges children in low-income communities face. Many were dropping out of school due to financial constraints or household responsibilities. I knew that education was the only way to break this cycle, so I personally worked with families to ensure these kids got back into school. My husband and I have supported them in securing placements in reputable institutions, and our home remains open to them for learning and guidance. We’ve run Sunday Class for nearly a decade without taking a single salary—this is our Seva Bhav.

Interviewer: That’s incredible! How has Sunday Class impacted these children’s lives?

Antara Sarkar: The impact has been transformative. Many of these children were forced into labor at a young age, working as domestic help or in factories. When we started, our biggest challenge was convincing families to prioritize education. I personally visited their homes, sometimes calling parents multiple times a day for months. Eventually, I was able to enroll every dropout child in our community back into school.

Even today, we continue to support their education, providing mentorship, guidance, and a safe learning space. Seeing them succeed is the biggest reward.

Interviewer: Moving on to The Pink Engine—your second initiative. How did that come to life?

Antara Sarkar: The Pink Engine was born from my childhood love for trains. One day, I was looking for scaled models of Indian trains but found that no one was making them. That’s when we decided to create them ourselves.

We started with just a concept, but today, The Pink Engine is the only company in the world manufacturing miniature Indian train models scaled to 1/100th of their original size. Our models have found homes in universities, museums, and exhibitions across Japan, the US, the UK, and Hong Kong. What began as a personal fascination has grown into a globally recognized brand, and that fills me with immense pride.

Interviewer: That’s an amazing achievement. Given that this year’s International Women’s Day theme is “Accelerate Action,” how do you embody this in your work?

Antara Sarkar: To me, accelerating action means taking decisive steps toward meaningful change. At Sunday Class, I didn’t wait for someone else to help—I personally fought to bring dropouts back into school. At The Pink Engine, I saw a male-dominated field and made it a point to hire young women to break barriers.

Interviewer: Can you tell us more about your efforts to include women in your ventures?

Antara Sarkar: Yes! When The Pink Engine started growing, I needed a workforce. Instead of following the industry norm, I consciously hired young women. The world of train modeling and manufacturing is almost entirely male-dominated, and I wanted to change that. By hiring women, we not only scaled our production but also created opportunities for female representation in a field where they were nearly absent.

Interviewer: That’s a strong commitment to women’s empowerment. Do you think we are moving towards real gender equality?

Antara Sarkar: We are progressing, but too slowly. According to the World Economic Forum, at our current pace, gender equality won’t be achieved until 2158—five generations from now. That’s why immediate action is necessary. Women should not just be participants but decision-makers in every industry.

Interviewer: Has this mindset shaped your journey?

Antara Sarkar: Absolutely. Whether through Sunday Class or The Pink Engine, I’ve learned that change happens when we act, not just discuss. Every step forward matters.

Interviewer: When do you think is the right time to accelerate in life?

Antara Sarkar: Timing is crucial. Before accelerating, you must understand the landscape. At Sunday Class, I didn’t immediately start making changes—I spent time understanding each child’s struggles. At The Pink Engine, I researched the market before launching our models. My advice:

1. Start working on your idea.

2. Crawl, walk, jog—before you run.

3. Learn, adapt, then scale.

This ensures sustainable and meaningful acceleration.

Interviewer: Who are the women who have inspired you?

Antara Sarkar: My mother has been my biggest support. My journey is unconventional—I’m child-free by choice yet dedicate my life to other children’s education. I left a corporate job at JP Morgan to build my ventures. Through all of this, my mother has defended my choices.

I have also been fortunate to have incredible female friends. Women like Shikha, Priyanka, and Gauri have supported me in ways that aren’t documented but are invaluable. Strong friendships make all the difference.

Interviewer: You’ve been a mentor for many. Would you continue mentoring women pro bono?

Antara Sarkar: I already do and have for over a decade. Whether it’s academic guidance, personal struggles, or professional advice, I am always there for my students and employees. This is who I am, 24/7.

Interviewer: What is your success mantra?

Antara Sarkar: I believe there is no failure—only life experiences. People might say, "She helped a girl, but she dropped out again" or "She made a model, but it didn’t sell." I don’t see these as failures but as learning experiences. Every setback has made me wiser.

I recently spoke at TEDx and won a national award for my social work. Ten years ago, I couldn’t have imagined this. The struggles led me to unexpected places, and for that, I’m grateful.

Interviewer: One action statement that can create a big impact for women?

Antara Sarkar: I’ll quote a song by Sona Mohapatra—“Paaon pe chhaale hai, saansein buland. Ladne chali hoon aazaadi ki jung.”

Yes, resistance exists. Yes, the journey is hard. But if you truly want independence, you must fight for it. No one will hand you freedom—you have to claim it.

Interviewer: Any final advice for personal and professional growth?

Antara Sarkar: Surround yourself with the right people. If you choose a life partner, ensure they support your dreams rather than hinder them. Success comes from an environment that nurtures growth.

Interviewer: Thank you for sharing your inspiring story, Antara.

Antara Sarkar: Thank you! It’s an honor to contribute to change in any way I can.

The relationship between the executive and the judiciary in India has always been complex, often marred by conflicts that test the country’s democratic framework. While the Constitution outlines a clear separation of powers, disputes over jurisdiction, authority, and policy decisions frequently create tensions between these two crucial pillars of governance. The current scenario, marked by an increasing lack of trust and communication between the judiciary and the executive, calls for reflection on the leadership of figures like Hansraj Bharadwaj. As India’s longest-serving Law Minister, Bharadwaj was instrumental in fostering dialogue, respect, and institutional cooperation between the executive and the judiciary, ensuring that both functioned harmoniously within the democratic system.

India’s Constitution is built on the principle of separation of powers, ensuring that the executive, legislature, and judiciary operate independently while maintaining necessary checks and balances. The executive, led by the Prime Minister and the President, is responsible for governance and policy-making, while the judiciary, headed by the Supreme Court, interprets laws and ensures that government actions comply with constitutional provisions.

However, despite this well-defined framework, friction between the judiciary and the executive has been a recurring theme in India’s history. Judicial appointments, interpretation of constitutional provisions, and legal challenges to executive policies have often been sources of contention.

One of the most persistent issues is the appointment of judges. Under the collegium system, the judiciary holds the final authority in recommending and appointing judges to higher courts. However, the executive also plays a role in the process, leading to disagreements and delays that sometimes hinder judicial efficiency. The executive has frequently expressed concerns over the lack of transparency in the collegium system, while the judiciary has resisted executive interference, citing the need to uphold judicial independence.

Another major area of conflict arises when courts strike down executive actions or laws, citing constitutional violations. While the judiciary is tasked with protecting fundamental rights and ensuring legal compliance, the executive sometimes views such rulings as judicial overreach that limits its ability to govern effectively. These tensions, if not addressed through constructive dialogue, can erode trust between the two institutions and impact governance.

Hansraj Bharadwaj, a seasoned lawyer and politician, recognized the importance of maintaining a collaborative relationship between the executive and the judiciary. As Law Minister, he played a crucial role in bridging the gap between these institutions, ensuring that conflicts were managed with diplomacy and mutual respect. Bharadwaj believed in open communication and consultation. Unlike many of his successors, who allowed tensions to escalate into full-blown conflicts, he actively engaged with judges, legal experts, and executive officials to address concerns and find common ground. His approach was rooted in the belief that disagreements should be resolved through discussion rather than confrontation.

During his tenure, Bharadwaj spearheaded several legal reforms aimed at enhancing judicial efficiency and transparency. Recognizing the need for a robust judiciary to uphold democracy, he advocated for streamlined judicial appointment processes, fair selection criteria for judges, and measures to reduce bureaucratic delays. His efforts ensured that judicial appointments were based on merit rather than political influence.

Beyond the appointment process, Bharadwaj also championed judicial accountability while preserving judicial independence. He firmly believed that judges should be empowered to make impartial decisions but should also be held accountable for their rulings. His balanced approach helped foster a legal environment where both the executive and the judiciary could function with mutual respect and cooperation.

One of Bharadwaj’s most remarkable qualities was his ability to handle conflicts with diplomacy. Unlike the present-day confrontational approach, he tackled executive-judicial disputes with patience and strategic negotiation. His tenure saw several instances where tensions were diffused through well-calibrated discussions rather than public confrontations.

A key aspect of his leadership was his firm stance against politically motivated attacks on the judiciary. Today, judicial independence faces significant threats from vested interest groups that attempt to influence rulings through public pressure and media narratives. Bharadwaj’s tenure serves as a lesson in how such challenges can be addressed without compromising the dignity of institutions. The legal fraternity must take inspiration from his leadership in upholding the integrity of the judicial system.

Despite Bharadwaj’s contributions, conflicts between the executive and judiciary have only intensified in recent years. Judicial appointments continue to be a contentious issue, with growing concerns over transparency and accountability. The judiciary’s increasing intervention in policy matters has led to accusations of judicial activism, while the executive’s attempts to influence judicial decisions have sparked fears of judicial erosion.

The growing politicization of legal institutions poses a significant threat to India’s democratic framework. Bharadwaj’s tenure reminds us that democracy thrives not in conflict but in consensus. His leadership exemplifies how disputes can be managed without undermining institutional integrity or creating a constitutional crisis. Today, as we commemorate his birth anniversary, it is evident that his legacy has not been upheld by subsequent governments, whether under the UPA or the NDA. The spirit of cooperation that he nurtured has been replaced by deep-seated distrust and power struggles between the judiciary and the executive.

India needs leaders like HR Bharadwaj now more than ever—leaders who understand that a functioning democracy depends on collaboration between its institutions. The executive and the judiciary must work as partners in governance rather than as adversaries locked in constant battle. The lessons from Bharadwaj’s tenure are clear, namely Dialogue Over Confrontation, Judicial Independence with Accountability, Legal Reforms for Transparency, Depoliticization of Institutions..

"Samar shesh hai, nahi paap ka bhagi keval vyadh, jo tatasth hai, samay likhega unka bhi apradh."

These words of Ramdhari Singh Dinkar remind us that indifference is as dangerous as injustice. Bihar has always been a land of revolutions—be it in freedom struggles, social movements, or agricultural reforms. Yet, despite its rich history and fertile lands, the farmers of Bihar remain unheard, unseen, and undervalued. It is time for a bold and decisive step, one that recognizes that Bihar’s true strength lies in its farmers and its people.

When Samrat Choudhary, Bihar’s Finance Minister, presented the ?3.17 trillion Budget for 2025-26, it was more than just numbers and policies—it was a battle cry for Bihar’s resurgence, a promise that Bihar will not just survive but thrive, not just dream but achieve. The budget lays a strong foundation for infrastructure development, skill enhancement, and agricultural transformation. However, if Bihar is to truly rise, it must put its farmers at the center of its economic roadmap.

For decades, Bihar’s agriculture has been trapped in a cycle of low productivity, lack of market access, and vulnerability to floods and droughts. The Kosi River, known as the “Sorrow of Bihar,” has devastated countless villages, forcing migration and economic distress. But what if, instead of being a force of destruction, Bihar’s rivers became a source of power, prosperity, and security? A Hoover Dam-like structure on the Kosi and other major rivers could prevent floods, store water for irrigation, generate electricity, and create thousands of jobs. A Bihar where farmers don’t have to pray for good monsoons, where crops don’t wither in dry spells, where clean energy fuels industries—this is not just a dream, it is a possibility within our reach.

Yet, water security alone is not enough. A Farmer-Centric Agriculture Value Chain Commission, backed by a High-Powered Committee, is essential to address systemic agricultural challenges. Bihar’s future cannot be built on fragmented policies, temporary relief measures, and middlemen-driven markets. The agriculture sector needs structural transformation, one that is farmer-led, technology-driven, and market-oriented. A commission of agri-experts, cooperative leaders, policymakers, industry stakeholders, and farmer representatives can ensure a time-bound, effective, and result-driven approach to fair pricing, irrigation, sustainable farming, food processing, and global market access.

For years, Bihar’s farmers have suffered at the hands of seasonal floods, erratic weather, inadequate infrastructure, and exploitative market chains. Why should the land that feeds millions remain in distress? Why should a Bihari farmer struggle to make ends meet while middlemen reap profits? It is time for a new economic model—one that integrates Bihar’s agriculture into a national and global supply chain. A cooperative economic framework can break caste-based politics and economic inequalities, ensuring that wealth creation benefits every farmer, not just a privileged few.

Beyond agriculture, Bihar needs to prepare its youth for a modern and competitive world. For decades, Bihari youth have left their homes in search of work. But why should a state with so much talent, potential, and determination have to send its best and brightest elsewhere? The ?60,964 crore investment in education and skill development will change this forever. Bihar is poised to become a hub for green infrastructure, solar energy, and sustainable industries. With renewable energy projects, modern transport networks, and eco-friendly urban planning, Bihar can attract massive investments from industries looking for a skilled workforce and a sustainable future. The establishment of the National Institute of Food Technology will not just create jobs but will transform Bihar into India’s food processing hub. When industries see a state investing in its people and its environment, they invest in that state. And when investments come, jobs follow, migration slows, and prosperity rises.

Bihar is not just a state—it is a legacy. It is the land of Chanakya, the greatest strategist, who built empires on wisdom and vision. It is the land of Buddha, who taught the world that transformation begins from within. It is the land of Swami Sahajanand Saraswati, who fought for farmers’ rights, and Jai Prakash Narayan, who led the people’s revolution. This budget must not be just another policy document—it must be Bihar’s war cry for progress.

"Sinhasan khali karo ki janta aati hai!" The people of Bihar are ready. They don’t want promises; they want action. A High-Powered Agriculture Commission and a Farmer-Centric Economic Model will not just transform Bihar’s economy—it will restore its lost glory. This is not just about elections or policies; this is about dignity, justice, and the future of every Bihari child. The time for waiting is over—the time for action is now.

By Binod Anand, Member Prime Minister High power Committee on MSP AND Agriculture reforms,Govt of India

In the grand tapestry of India's cultural and spiritual legacy, the Kumbh Mela stands as a timeless confluence of faith, tradition, and human endeavor. But amid the sea of millions gathered for religious sanctity, a silent yet powerful revolution in public health is taking shape—Netra Kumbh 2025. This unparalleled humanitarian initiative has emerged as the world's largest temporary eye healthcare camp, earning recognition from both the India Book of Records and the Asia Book of Records. Beyond its medical impact, Netra Kumbh aligns with 12 out of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reinforcing its role in human development and global health equity.

A Legacy of Sight: Transforming Lives Since 2019

The journey of Netra Kumbh is not new. It has been a defining force in addressing preventable blindness in India. During Kumbh 2019, over 200,000 pilgrims benefitted, with 155,000 glasses distributed and 23,000 surgeries conducted. Even in the challenging times of Ardh Kumbh 2021, amidst the pandemic, 48,000 pilgrims received care, and 38,000 spectacles were distributed. With each edition, this initiative has expanded in scale, efficiency, and outreach.

In 2025, Netra Kumbh reached new heights of impact. A record-breaking 2,37,169 individuals underwent comprehensive eye screenings, ensuring early detection and timely intervention for various vision impairments. The initiative facilitated the distribution of 1,62,925 spectacles, providing instant vision correction and enhancing the daily lives of thousands. Additionally, 17,038 patients were identified for further treatment and surgeries, emphasizing the long-term commitment of Netra Kumbh to eradicating preventable blindness. The magnitude of these achievements underscores the initiative’s evolution into a robust, large-scale healthcare intervention, effectively transforming the landscape of eye care in India.

A Holistic Public Health Mission: More Than Just Eye Care

Netra Kumbh 2025 is not just a medical camp; it is an integrated public health movement that brings together healthcare, service, and community participation. The camp has been meticulously structured to ensure world-class medical services for both pilgrims and volunteers, with designated halls serving various functions. Screening halls like Rajju Bhaiya OPD 1 and Bhaurao Ji Devras OPD 2 ensure streamlined eye check-ups, while the Shri Radchhordas Ji Bapu Hospital Hall manages the distribution of spectacles. Pilgrims and volunteers have access to well-furnished dormitories such as Ahilyabai Holkar Niwas specifically for female volunteers (commemorating her 300th anniversary), while Ganga Niwas, Yamuna Niwas, and Saraswati Niwas provide accommodation for other volunteers and staff. For healthcare professionals, Bhagwan Dhanvantari Niwas offers dedicated lodging. Additionally, Chandra Shekhar Hall is designated for welcoming guests, while Sants Soordas Sabhagar serves as a seminar hall hosting discussions on knowledge, spirituality, and service. Annapoorna Prasadam Hall ensures that thousands receive three wholesome meals daily, managed by ISKCON under the guidance of Guru Gaurang Das, reinforcing the spirit of sewa (selfless service) deeply embedded in Bharatiya civilizational values. This state-of-the-art facility is a testament to how faith-driven community efforts can create sophisticated, large-scale healthcare interventions, making Netra Kumbh a one-of-its-kind global model for temporary yet highly efficient medical outreach programs.

Aligning with Global Health Goals: Covering 12 out of 17 SDGs

Netra Kumbh 2025 exemplifies the power of healthcare initiatives in driving global progress by addressing vision impairment and its socio-economic implications. It aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in multiple ways. SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) is at the core of this initiative, ensuring access to free eye checkups, corrective measures, and awareness programs to prevent blindness. By improving vision, Netra Kumbh also contributes to SDG 4 (Quality Education), as children with corrected vision are more likely to succeed academically, breaking cycles of poverty and dependence. Moreover, by restoring sight, individuals can return to work, contributing to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), improving productivity, and reducing financial dependence on families and social support systems. SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) is also realized through the initiative’s commitment to providing quality eye care services to marginalized communities, bridging the vast gap in healthcare accessibility. Furthermore, the success of Netra Kumbh is driven by extensive collaborations between government agencies, NGOs, medical institutions, and corporate partners, aligning perfectly with SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). This collective effort showcases how large-scale healthcare initiatives, when aligned with developmental goals, can foster inclusive growth and holistic well-being.

Socio-Economic Impact: Restoring Vision, Restoring Livelihoods

While the scale of Netra Kumbh is reflected in its numbers, the true measure of its impact is in the lives it transforms. India has over 35 million people with visual impairments, with 1.25 crore classified as visually disabled. Many of these cases stem from preventable conditions such as cataracts and refractive errors, which significantly limit an individual’s ability to earn a livelihood, pursue education, or engage in everyday activities. Through timely interventions, Netra Kumbh is enabling a shift in this narrative. Restoring sight allows daily wage workers to regain their capacity to earn, ensuring financial stability and reducing dependency. It also enhances educational opportunities for children, helping them perform better academically and unlocking brighter futures. Beyond direct medical care, Netra Kumbh fosters a culture of preventive healthcare, emphasizing the importance of regular checkups and encouraging corneal donations to support long-term solutions for visual impairments.

A Global Footprint: Beneficiaries from Across Continents

Netra Kumbh 2025 has not only catered to pilgrims from all Indian states and Union Territories but has also extended its humanitarian reach beyond borders. Over 1,500 beneficiaries from countries across the Indian subcontinent, Europe, and the Americas have availed themselves of its services. This international participation underscores the global relevance of accessible and quality eye healthcare. Unlike any other temporary healthcare initiative worldwide, Netra Kumbh combines efficiency, large-scale reach, and world-class medical infrastructure in a short period, making it a replicable model for future public health interventions. The seamless execution of this initiative reflects India's capability to lead in humanitarian healthcare, setting a benchmark for countries looking to integrate medical services within cultural and religious congregations.

A Feat Acknowledged Worldwide

The monumental success of Netra Kumbh 2025 has earned it a place in history. Both the India Book of Records and the Asia Book of Records have recognized it as the world’s largest temporary eye healthcare camp. This recognition not only validates the scale and impact of the initiative but also highlights India’s capacity to lead the world in innovative and compassionate healthcare solutions.

A Model for Future Public Health Interventions

Netra Kumbh 2025 is not just an event; it is a scalable and replicable model for integrating healthcare services into cultural and religious congregations. With its seamless medical infrastructure, committed volunteer network, and deep-rooted philosophy of service, it has set a new benchmark in public health interventions. As we move forward, the legacy of Netra Kumbh 2025 will continue to inspire similar initiatives, ensuring that vision impairment never becomes a barrier to human potential. By aligning faith with service and healthcare with community welfare, Netra Kumbh has illuminated the path towards a healthier, more equitable world.

The article has been authored by Ms. Hemangi Sinha, Project Head at the World Intellectual Foundation, and Pravin Kumar Singh, Senior Project Associate at the World Intellectual Foundation.

René Descartes’ Cogito Ergo Sum—"I think, therefore I am"—redefined philosophy but left a deeper question unanswered: Who am I? With AI now thinking faster and more efficiently than us, the nature of our identity becomes crucial. Are we just biological supercomputers, or is there something beyond mere computation? Despite scientific progress, we still lack a fundamental grasp of consciousness. Without understanding our awareness, any claim about AI sentience is premature. AI may mimic intelligence, but that does not imply true consciousness. Until we solve this mystery, the essence of human existence remains an open question.

Who am I?

The fundamental flaw in Descartes’s reasoning is that he presupposes the existence of an ‘I’. Instead of proving it, he assumes the conclusion within the statement itself. For centuries, philosophers have pondered upon whether an ‘I’ truly exists and if so, what it is? .

Buddhists and the Advaita school of Hindu thought contend that the concept of a fixed, concrete ‘I’ is an illusion. Rooted in the concept of anatta (no-self), Buddhism argues that human identity is a transient product of various causes and consequences, both physical and mental (skandhas).  Advaita Vedanta, on the other hand, posits that the perception of the individual self is due to ignorance (advidy?), asserting that there is only one ultimate reality (Brahman) that binds us all. In contrast, the Dvaita school of Hinduism argues that every one of us possesses a unique singular consciousness. The materialists, on the other hand, view consciousness and identity as emergent products of one’s body and brain, ceasing with death.

Despite their differences, all theories share a common thread: the unexplained phenomenon of consciousness. Therefore, any exploration of the self must begin by understanding what it truly means to be conscious.

The Hard Problem of Consciousness

The hard problem of consciousness is the challenge of explaining why humans and other organisms have subjective experiences—how matter gives rise to a mind.

The sensations of experience are known as ‘qualia’. Love, for instance, stems from oxytocin firing in the brain, yet science cannot explain how this chemical activity creates the ‘feeling’ of love, or the qualia of love. When listening to your favourite song, neurochemical reactions in the brain process sound. However, despite all we know about sound, we are yet to understand how it transforms into the experience of music.

Artificial intelligence is quite similar to the brain in that both function as computers, processing information and generating outputs based on inputs. While the brain consists of neurons operating through electrochemical means, AI relies on artificial neural networks. However, as far as we know, AI does not generate qualia, or conscious experience. To determine whether this might be possible in the future, we must first understand the nature of qualia in our brains. Unfortunately, meaningful answers remain elusive.

Neuroscientists have developed detailed accounts of what occurs in our brains during various activities, but they remain merely descriptions. What humanity lacks is an explanation. How does electricity transform into experience? How does meat create reality? After all, we are stardust; the matter that constitutes us is scattered throughout the universe. Yet, something about the way it is assembled gives rise to the phenomenon of consciousness. Uncannily, we are conscious beings aware of our own consciousness; minds that know they are minds.

The Hard Problem of Consciousness earns its name because science lacks even the foundation of a coherent answer to it. Philosophers vehemently disagree with each other, while scientists remain largely perplexed.

Embracing the Uncertain

Discussions about AI consciousness are premature because humanity currently lacks the tools to address them. While it would be misguided to rule out the possibility, any discourse on the subject is futile without a prior understanding of the phenomenon of consciousness and the nature of the self. Research and scholarly debates must prioritize solving the hard problem of consciousness and deciphering the genesis of the ‘I’. By integrating both philosophical and scientific approaches we can achieve a deeper understanding of the reality we experience. This endeavour could pave the way for more informed discussions about artificial intelligence and its potential for consciousness.

In the large cityscapes of the 21st century, amidst our fast-paced lives, humanity seems to rush toward closure. As Socrates famously pointed out, true wisdom lies in knowing that one knows nothing. Yet, philosophers who followed him, including Plato and Aristotle, often contradicted his spirit of inquiry, hastily offering answers instead of embracing uncertainty. Perhaps, as Socrates urged, it is time to make peace with the fact that we know nothing – for in that acceptance lies the beginning of true seeking.

Bihar, once the land of Mauryas and Guptas, the cradle of learning with Nalanda and Vikramshila, and the birthplace of great thinkers like Chanakya—has always been at the heart of India's historical and cultural evolution. But look around today, and what do we see? Fields filled with potential, yet farmers struggling to make ends meet. Families are torn apart as young men leave home in search of work elsewhere. The cities swell with migrants while villages fade into oblivion.

It doesn't have to be this way. Bihar has everything it needs to flourish—fertile land, abundant water, skilled artisans, and a heritage of self-reliance. What it lacks is a roadmap, a determined push, and structural reforms that can channel its strengths into a future where Bihar doesn’t just survive but thrives.

Let’s face it—agriculture is the backbone of Bihar. More than 70% of the people depend on farming, yet the system remains outdated. Small landholdings, poor irrigation, and limited market access have kept farmers trapped in a cycle of low productivity and high dependency. But imagine a Bihar where farmers don’t have to leave home to earn a living. Where they can cultivate, process, and sell their produce without being at the mercy of middlemen. Where their children see a future in farming, instead of fleeing to cities in desperation.

The solution? Modernized infrastructure, advanced irrigation techniques, and digital tools like AI-driven soil testing to help farmers increase yield. The West Kosi Project, if properly implemented, can transform water management, ensuring that Bihar’s fields are green year-round instead of being at the mercy of monsoons.

Did you know Bihar produces over 85% of the world’s Makhana (fox nuts)? It’s a superfood, sought after for its nutritional benefits. But despite this dominance, farmers don’t get their fair share. Why? Because the sector is scattered, unorganized, and under-commercialized.

The recently established Makhana Board is a game-changer. Think of it like the Amul model—where farmers collectively own and benefit from the industry. With proper quality certification, branding, export facilitation, and farmer training, Bihar can turn Makhana into a billion-dollar industry. Imagine ‘Bihar Makhana’ labeled on supermarket shelves across the world—bringing prosperity back home, right where it belongs.

Bihar is not just about farming; it’s also about craftsmanship. Bhagalpur Silk is renowned worldwide, but what has been done to elevate the weavers? The answer lies in cooperative economic frameworks, where artisans aren’t just laborers but stakeholders in the industry. By setting up textile hubs, investing in technology, and providing direct market access, Bhagalpur can once again become the ‘Silk City of the World,’ not just of India.

Jute, another forgotten gem, can see a revival too. With the global push for eco-friendly products, Bihar’s jute industry can thrive—if we modernize processing units and link them to domestic and international markets. And most importantly, if we make sure the profits go back to the hands that spin the magic.

With its diverse agricultural produce, Bihar can be more than just a supplier of raw materials—it can be a global food processing and export hub. Creating dedicated Food Export Zones will ensure that farmers don’t just grow food but also gain from its value addition.

Government initiatives and the latest provisions in Budget 2025 signal a shift towards agro-industrialization. But policies mean nothing without execution. This is where close monitoring from the PMO and state administration becomes crucial—to ensure Bihar gets the investments, infrastructure, and institutional support it needs to transform into an agribusiness powerhouse.

Bihar’s rivers have always been its lifelines, yet they remain vastly underutilized. What if we told you that Bihar’s water bodies could create millions of jobs? With strategic investments in fisheries, aquaculture, and inland water transport, the state can boost its ‘Blue Economy.’ Sustainable fishing and modern fish farming techniques can generate wealth while preserving the ecosystem. The Ganga and its tributaries can also serve as efficient waterways—cutting transport costs, boosting trade, and reducing environmental impact. A strong Blue Economy means more jobs at home, fewer migrant laborers, and a stronger Bihar.

The flood-prone regions of Bihar, including the Tal, Chaur, and Maan areas, are often viewed as liabilities, but they hold immense untapped potential. These waterlogged lowlands can be transformed into hubs of sustainable aquaculture and integrated farming. Instead of battling floods, Bihar can learn to harness them—developing a water-based economy that turns seasonal adversity into an advantage. With the right planning, these regions can become highly productive zones for fish farming, lotus cultivation, and integrated paddy-fish culture. This would not only boost rural incomes but also establish Bihar as a leader in India's National Blue Economy. If managed effectively, the floodwaters can be used to recharge groundwater levels, support biodiversity, and create a resilient agricultural model that turns Bihar’s biggest challenge into its greatest strength.

This transformative development is not just economic but also deeply political. With the 2025 Vidhan Sabha elections on the horizon, a shift towards an agriculture-anchored economy can redefine Bihar’s political narrative. Instead of electioneering around caste equations and short-term welfare schemes, Bihar can initiate a development-driven debate, one that shifts the focus to economic empowerment, job creation, and self-sufficiency. This will not only energize the electorate but also strengthen the vision of making Bihar the epicenter of a thriving, cooperative-led economy. Furthermore, such economic revival will directly impact the Home Minister’s ambitious target of eliminating Naxalism by ensuring that discontented youth find stable employment within their own state, reducing the lure of extremism.

Bihar has always been the land of visionaries—whether it was Bhikari Thakur, whose folk theatre echoed the struggles of migration, or Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, whose poetic calls for revolution still inspire the masses. Their voices still resonate with Bihar’s need for transformation. Dinkar’s words, “Samar shesh hai, nahi paap ka bhagi keval vyadh” (The battle is yet to be fought, and the burden of injustice is not for one alone to bear), remind us that Bihar's struggle is far from over—it must fight for its rightful place in India's growth story. Chanakya, the greatest political reformer, laid the foundation of governance rooted in economic stability and strategic foresight, a philosophy that Bihar needs to embrace once again to chart its resurgence.

When we talk about making India a developed country by 2047, it’s impossible to achieve that dream without Bihar rising to its full potential. A weak Bihar keeps India from becoming truly strong. But a Bihar that harnesses its agricultural wealth, its textile heritage, its food industry, and its river economy—that Bihar can be unstoppable.

Bihar doesn’t need sympathy; it needs strategy. It doesn’t need promises; it needs action. And most importantly, it doesn’t need to send its sons and daughters away in search of livelihoods—it needs to build an economy that keeps them rooted, employed, and thriving right at home.

A Viksit Bharat is only possible with a Viksit Bihar. The time to act is now.

Writer Binod Anand, Secretary General, CNRI and Member PM MSP COMMITTEE and Agriculture reforms