President Donald Trump’s surprise military strike on Iranian nuclear sites has sent ripples far beyond the Middle East, impacting strategic calculations in the Asia-Pacific region. The June 22 U.S. attack—using B-2 bombers and submarine-launched Tomahawk missiles—helped end the 12-day Iran-Israel war, but also signaled a shift in Trump’s foreign policy doctrine.

I believe true success isn’t just about wealth — it’s about inner strength and a smile that lasts through challenges

In the corporate world, we have traditionally defined success by the size of our paycheck, our position in the hierarchy, the number of people in our network, or the profits on our balance sheet. But that is a very limited way of perceiving success.

In businesses today, we need to have a strategy, a creative edge, right decision making (intuition), sharpness, and speed. While this requires the right skillsets, vision and resources, it also needs something deeper-the strength, clarity and life force energy that comes from within. Just as we do not forgo our hygiene in the pursuit of our business goals, one can no longer ignore one’s mental hygiene either, no matter what our profession is. To take good care of our minds, spiritual practices like meditation, reflection, and contemplation on timeless wisdom can be of great help. Unless we take care of our minds, any success we achieve is going to be short-lived and elusive.

We can’t play the role of a CEO or a manager all day. Who are we when we are sleeping? Are we an entrepreneur or a manager or a team lead? Just like sleep offers rest from all these labels, a few minutes of meditation or spending time in silence offers rest to the mind. And that brief pause gives you enormous energy to accomplish your goals with a smile on your face each day. Spirituality is not a detour from success; in fact, it is what gives it depth and sustainability.

Intuition, Not Just Information

Many business leaders will tell you: that one big idea, that one breakthrough, just flashed in their mind. Innovation and a clear vision of a future are products of an intuitive mind. And when our mind calms down, intuition is right there. A few minutes of meditation every day can bring you more awareness, clarity, and the right nudge.

Success without intuition is like walking blindfolded through a forest. You may have all the data, but data alone doesn’t give us insight. That insight is born in silence, when the stress and worry settle, and the intuitive intelligence begins to rise.

Competition Without Comparison

Competition becomes stressful when it turns into comparison. On the race track, we do not win by looking around to see who’s catching up; we win by singularly focusing on our own game. Pulling others down does not make one rise. We may be the market leader, but we need to see if we have outdone ourselves in any measure. Success comes when we improve our own past performance. All we need to do is, aim for growth over ego.

To win big, we do not have to isolate ourselves and live in perpetual insecurity. We must acknowledge others and the good work they do. A good relationship is never a deterrent to competitive spirit or ambition. When perceived in the right sense, it can, in fact make us better people and overall add value to our enterprises. We don’t have to be cunning or rude to be competitive and ambitious. We can be competitive, successful, and friendly at the same time. In one meal, we can have raita, and we can also have payasam. Nothing prevents us from having both.

Leadership Beyond the Ego

A good leader is not a dictator. Leadership is about listening, collaborating, and communicating, calmly, and confidently. Most of business is communication. Even the greatest ideas can fail if not communicated properly. Most of the disasters in businesses happen due to impulsiveness. One makes an impulsive decision that is followed by endless regret. For communication to be effective, it should be devoid of impulsiveness. Great communication, with a sense of confidence, is the outcome of a meditative mind. Communication with a calm, clear mind and a holistic vision, which involves the interest of all, helps us grow in business and personal life. At the root of highly effective communication is meditation, because that kind of clarity can come from silence alone. This forms the basis for happiness and abundance, which is what everyone wants at the end of the day.

Spirituality brings immense happiness in our lives, which is the goal of creating wealth. Suppose we have all the wealth of the world, but we are miserable. What good is that wealth? Wealth should bring us physical comfort and happiness in life. If it doesn’t achieve this goal, it remains unfulfilling.

With meditation, we can culture our mind to respond instead of react, and see the bigger picture. Just because an idea failed in the short term does not mean it will never work. It may just be a factor of time. When one has a bigger vision, the mind will not get stuck in trivial challenges or be discouraged by them. To take big decisions on what will work in the long run and what won't, one needs to be able to see the big picture, an ability that comes effortlessly with meditation.

And when communication happens from such an intuitive space, it builds teams, inspires trust, and makes businesses thrive, and not just survive.

Team spirit is built on celebrating diversity- diversity of personalities, their flaws and qualities. Everyone in your team doesn't need to be like you, and they shouldn’t be. Focus not on personalities, but on the goal. If the goal remains the priority, you’ll find ways to take everyone along.

This will help build a deeper and more meaningful bond among the teams. They will go back with renewed energy, calm, creativity, and a sense of enthusiasm to do more. There are two types of joy. One is the infant joy of receiving something and another is the more mature joy that comes from giving, which is long-lasting. I would urge everyone to experience the latter by contributing to society.

We don’t have to do what we cannot do for society. We will never be expected to give what we cannot give. But what we can do for others, within our means and by stretching ourselves a little outside of our comfort zone, we must do. It is not just in the millions we make, but in the quality of our giving and how we uplift others. One must consider one’s work sacred; earn for ourselves, and also share. Business, at its best, can become a tree that gives shade to many.

Maintaining a work-life balance is necessary today. When life outside work is rich and meaningful, your work too becomes more focused and productive. Meditation and spiritual wisdom allow you more time to build this beautiful balance skillfully. To attain peace, you do not have to run away to the Himalayas. You can be right where you are, and dive deep within to the cave of your heart, to find stillness and comfort.

Success is not just about what you get but who you become in the process. Do you smile more? Or does it disappear at the first sight of a challenge or a failure? See for yourself how strong your smile is; that is the real measure of your success.

African Unity Nite 2025 in Oman: A Bridge of Heritage, Solidarity, and Sustainable Development

Under the patronage of the African Committee in Oman, the African Unity Nite 2025 held at the Sheraton Hotel, Ruwi, was a splendid celebration of African culture, tourism, and international cooperation. The theme, “Visit Africa: Familiarizing the World with Africa’s Tourism Potential”, highlighted the richness and diversity of African heritage while underlining the significance of sustainable tourism and economic growth.

Oman, under the wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, has shown a steadfast commitment to fostering peace and supporting humanitarian efforts across Africa, particularly in Sudan. In collaboration with the United Nations Alliance for Sustainable Development Goals (UNASDG), the Sultanate has played a pivotal role in launching initiatives that align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on poverty alleviation, healthcare improvement, and economic development.

A special acknowledgment goes to Sheykh Abdullah bin Mubarak Al Hamdani, Ambassador of Oman to the UNASDG, whose unwavering support and dedication have significantly strengthened the bridge of cooperation between Oman and Sudan. His leadership, along with that of His Excellency Dr. El Nazeir Ibrahim Mohamed Abu Sail, International Legal Advisor and Strategic Advisor, and fellow Ambassador of UNASDG, has been instrumental in advancing strategic partnerships and fostering sustainable 

When former presidents speak out, it's not politics, it's prophecy.

In the better days of American democracy—if such days can still be spoken of without irony—former presidents understood their silence as service. They returned, after their tenure, to the quiet dignity of private life. To stay silent was not apathy; it was trust. Trust that the system would hold, that the Constitution could weather the next storm, that democracy, however flawed, would self-correct.

That era is over.

In recent weeks, an extraordinary thing has happened. Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and President Joe Biden have all returned to the stage—not to endorse candidates or reflect on legacy, but to issue a warning. A constitutional warning. A democratic cry. They did not name names. They didn’t have to.

Their collective intervention breaks a long-standing tradition not out of vanity, but necessity. What we are witnessing is not camaraderie—it is survival. These are men who once campaigned against each other, governed in ideological opposition, and wrestled for legacy. Today, they stand on the same ground, not because they agree on policies, but because they fear there may soon be no ground left to stand on.

This is not politics as usual. This is guardianship. And it is miserable.

George W. Bush, who has stayed largely silent since leaving office, speaks volumes in his absence. His few words, when offered, cut through the noise, quiet, deliberate rebukes that suggest deep unease. Even his reticence has become a kind of dissent.

What binds these presidents now is not partisanship, but a shared dread that the guardrails of American democracy—electoral legitimacy, judicial independence, the peaceful transfer of power—are buckling. They are watching, in real time, the erosion of the very structures they once swore to uphold.

Yes, America has survived deep fissures before: the Civil War, Watergate, even the traumas of 9/11. But the current crisis is different. It is not just institutional; it is moral. It is not merely about policy—it is about whether truth can hold against conspiracy, whether law can outlast loyalty, whether leadership can exist without fear.

Former presidents do not raise their voices easily. When they do, it means the alarm has already been ringing too long. What we are hearing now is not the usual noise of an election cycle. It is a last-ditch call from those who know the system from the inside. Who understands how close we may be to tipping from dysfunction into collapse.

There is no joy in this chorus. Only dread.

And perhaps that is the lesson of this moment. That even the most powerful among us are powerless when democratic norms give way. That misery, not ambition, is what calls them to speak. And that, when history looks back, it may judge them not by the offices they held—but by the alarm they sounded, too late or just in time.

Author Bio: Prof. Sasmita Palo teaches at the School of Management and Labour Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai. With over 25 years of experience in teaching and research, her work focuses on organizational behaviour and leadership.

On May 14, 2025, the world witnessed a dramatic turn in South Asia’s political landscape. In a historic declaration led by Mir Yar Baloch and other exiled leaders, the Republic of Balochistan was proclaimed independent from Pakistan. The proclamation has reignited questions of regional justice and stability—and placed India at a moral and strategic crossroads.

India, as the world’s largest democracy and a civilizational voice for dignity and pluralism, has a rare opportunity to shape the narrative. Its foundational principles of justice, freedom, and self-determination demand a thoughtful engagement with Balochistan’s plea. Just as it stood with the Bengali people in 1971, India today must decide whether it will remain a bystander or rise as a principled actor in South Asia.

Balochistan’s struggle is not new. In 1947, the Khan of Kalat declared independence, invoking treaties with the British that recognized Kalat’s sovereignty. But in March 1948, the Pakistani military annexed the region. The accession, signed under pressure, was never accepted by the Baloch people. The decades since have witnessed five armed uprisings, each met with brutal crackdowns. Human rights groups have documented disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and mass graves—an unrelenting pattern of repression.

Rich in resources, yet impoverished—Balochistan remains Pakistan’s neglected paradox. Despite contributing significantly to Pakistan’s natural gas output and mineral wealth, the region suffers from chronic underdevelopment. Cities like Dera Bugti and Turbat still lack basic infrastructure, while gas from Balochistan fuels homes in Lahore and Karachi. Development projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) have only deepened the sense of exploitation, as locals are displaced while benefits accrue to elites elsewhere.

The reality is clear: Balochistan is governed not as a province, but as an occupied frontier. The Pakistani establishment, dominated by military and Punjabi elites, continues to operate through coercion rather than consensus. The militarization of Gwadar and surrounding districts has intensified feelings of disenfranchisement. State repression is not incidental—it is systemic.

To be fair, Pakistan often justifies its heavy-handedness in Balochistan by citing national security concerns, fears of external interference, and aspirations to preserve territorial integrity. These concerns, while not entirely baseless, cannot excuse decades of sustained human rights violations and political exclusion.

India’s approach to Balochistan has traditionally been one of restraint. But Pakistan’s repeated internationalization of Kashmir, combined with its internal failures in Balochistan, has altered the regional calculus. For India, Balochistan is not just a counter-lever—it is a test of ethical statecraft.

If realized, Balochistan’s independence could dramatically reshape the subcontinent’s strategic landscape. Pakistan’s access to the Arabian Sea would be curtailed. CPEC—a flagship of China’s Belt and Road Initiative—would face serious logistical and security hurdles. China’s $60 billion investment would be exposed to new risks, recalibrating Beijing’s ambitions in the region. At the same time, Pakistan’s internal balance—already fragile due to rising dissent in Sindh, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa—would be further destabilized.

Yet this is not the time for hasty moves. India must proceed with strategic patience and diplomatic subtlety. Formal recognition of Balochistan is premature. Instead, India should begin by quietly amplifying the Baloch voice on international platforms. This includes engaging with the Baloch diaspora, supporting documentation of abuses, and fostering informal ties with the Baloch government-in-exile.

New Delhi can also offer non-military assistance—training civil society actors, funding research on regional autonomy, and enabling humanitarian support for Baloch refugees. A discreet yet sustained engagement would signal India’s principled alignment without inviting direct confrontation.

It is equally important to humanize the Baloch cause. Figures like Dr. Allah Nazar Baloch, a physician-turned-guerrilla leader, and Karima Baloch, a slain human rights activist in exile, embody the struggle's tragic complexity. Their stories must be told—not to romanticize insurgency, but to illuminate the desperation that fuels it. The world needs to understand that Balochistan is not merely a cartographic unit; it is a land of silenced voices and stolen futures.

As a regional power with global aspirations, India cannot afford to ignore the moral dimensions of its neighbourhood. Justice in Balochistan is not about partitioning Pakistan—it is about holding accountable a state that has repeatedly failed to protect the rights of its own citizens. It is about making space for dignity, democracy, and voice in a region starved of all three.

Pakistan, meanwhile, stands at a reckoning. A country that invokes religious solidarity abroad while oppressing ethnic minorities at home cannot sustain legitimacy. The same structural fault lines that tore East Pakistan apart are now widening in its west. A state that survives on coercion is always one crisis away from collapse.

Balochistan’s declaration may not yet change borders—but it has already changed the discourse. The world is watching how regional powers respond. For India, this is a defining moment to show that its global rise is anchored not just in power, but in principle.

History may not repeat itself exactly—but it rhymes. And in the cries from Gwadar and Quetta, one can hear the faint echo of 1971. Will we listen this time?

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.

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

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.