Sunday, November 17, 2024

Sounds of Manipur in Supreme Court

Manipur State - India

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

News in the mainstream media on Manipur is as ambiguous as the Chinese intrusions during April-May 2020 in eastern Ladakh and the recent India-China deal to resume patrolling in the region. News about Manipur is what Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh administration wants. Clampdown on reporting ground truth persists, and spin-doctoring includes a disinformation barrage, for example, accusing tribals using drones to drop bombs/grenades (including such a post on X by Biren Singh) until the Army Chief publicly nailed the lie.

The Centre’s subterfuge came into focus on November 10, 2024, when 10 Kuki MLAs from Manipur (including of BJP) called a “blatant lie” Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta’s submission in Supreme Court on November 8 that Biren Singh is meeting all Kuki MLAs and trying to restore peace. Mehta perhaps said this to avoid SC examining audio recordings (termed ‘Manipur Tapes’) indicting Biren Singh’s role in ethnic cleansing in Manipur since May 2023.

All Kuki MLAs denied having met Biren Singh since May 3 last year. Their joint statement, referring to the recent killing of Zosangkim Hmar in Jiribam district despite heavy security presence in the area, said, “We strongly condemn the barbaric killing of a defenceless woman by the Meitei militias”. The MLAs also said they wouldn’t meet Biren Singh in future also since “he is the mastermind behind the violence and ethnic cleansing of our people from the Imphal valley”. The post mortem report of Zosangkim Hmar (mother of three) indicates rape, torture and burning to death. Last year, three Kuki women were raped by a mob of Meitei radicals and paraded naked.

The killing of Zosangkim Hmar was followed by news reports of at least 10 suspected Kuki insurgents shot dead in an encounter with CRPF and one CRPF person injured. The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) said the 10 shot dead were village defence volunteers, who have been on the ground since the violence began. The Hmar Students’ Association condemned the incident in a statement as “premeditated massacre of Hmar Village Volunteers.” The Kuki-Zo Council called for a total shutdown in the hilly areas of the state to express collective grief and solidarity; demanding an immediate thorough investigation bringing the perpetrators to justice. The incident crated unrest in Assam and Mizoram, with the Mizo National Front terming it “extra judicial killings”.

It is no secret that Biren Singh has been using Arambai Tenggol, UNLF and other Meitei radical organization to attack the Kuki-Zo, although not acknowledging Arambai Tenggol even exists and has used Manipur police commandos for ethnic cleansing

But Biren Singh is blue-eyed boy of the Centre who consider the Kuki-Zo “infiltrators” though they have been living in Manipur for decades, as pointed out by a former DG Assam Rifles.

Gunfights, arson and shutdowns have been rocking Manipur ever since. 20 more companies of central forces have been rushed to Manipur indicating utter failure of the state administration. But tribals fear this additional force may be used to accelerate ethnic cleansing. Posts on social media show Arambai Tenggol ordering the CRPF.

The Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) has been reimposed only in “parts” of Imphal Valley. But central forces and Manipur police are deployed in most places where Biren Singh’s writ runs.

Biren Singh also wants to flush out or kill tribals from 6,000 hectares of land for palm plantation by a corporation, having taken advance money already. Then there is also the Rs 50,000 crore annual trade in narcotics according to a report by the Editor’s Guild of India, of which a part goes up the pipeline to the Centre. The tribals are Christians and the NSCN (IM) had earlier s issued a warning to Arambai Tengoll not to target Christians (https://www.ifp.co.in/manipur/nscn-i-m-cautions-arambai-tenggol). Now the NSCN (IM) general secretary has threatened to resume armed resistance against India if the Centre rejects his demand for third party intervention in the Naga peace talks.

Recall the prime minister-led grand ceremony at New Delhi in 2015 signing the Framework of the Naga Peace Accord with the NDCN (IM). What did the Centre promise the NSCN? Was heralding it a monumental achievement a charade with no follow up considered necessary? Now the propaganda that NSCN is being supported by Bangladesh and Pakistani Islamists is utterly stupid – radical Islamists supporting Christians instead of killing them?

Biren Singh represents the true face of our politicians. It is on record that Manipur MLA Thaounaojam Shyamkumar Singh, heading a mob of 1200-1500 women, forced an Indian Army Infantry column to release 12 armed KYKL terrorists in Itham Village on June 24, 2023, which included the mastermind of an ambush, killing 18 Army soldiers on June 4, 2015. The MLA obviously had the backing of Biren Singh and also the Centre.

The same terrorist organization ambushed and killed Colonel Viplav Tripathi, CO 46 Assam Rifles, his wife and young son in 2021.

Why has this terrorist MLA not been prosecuted and where are these terrorists? The question doing the rounds is do our ministers having photo-ops of putting sweets in the mouth of soldiers on Diwali feel any shame? It is said that shame is not in the lexicon of politicians but then we have a defence minister who not only lied about the Chinese ingress in Ladakh but blatantly lies in Parliament about other issues as well.

The Manipur Tapes proving Biren Singh’s complicity in the ethnic cleansing came at a time when the Centre had set up a Commission of Inquiry to look into the Manipur violence. The 48-mnute audio tape, released on social media, has been provided to the Commission of Inquiry. The SC is to examine these tapes but the SG will probably say these are AI-generated fakes.

Anything and everything that happens in India is linked to vote-bank politics, with ideology added to polarize societies for electoral benefit. But it is ironic that while on one hand we are eulogizing tribals, latest example being Birsa Munda, simultaneously we are ethnically cleansing tribals in Manipur? Also, the government would be looking for support by the new American government to stop the killing of minorities in Bangladesh. In fact, Tulsi Gabbard, now appointed Director National Intelligence by Donald Trump, has been talking of Hindu killings in Bangladesh. But how would the Trump administration react to the torture, rapes and killings of Christians in Manipur?

The author is an Indian Army veteran. Views expressed are personal.

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Sunday, November 10, 2024

Aircraft Leasing: How Indian Co’s Benefit from International Financial Services Centre (IFSC)

Unmarked aircraft for leasing

India’s aviation sector is in the booming phase. As the third-largest domestic aviation market globally, and projected to become the third-largest worldwide by 2026, India presents a significant opportunity for aircraft leasing companies. The International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) in GIFT City, Gujarat, offers a unique and attractive platform for Indian companies to capitalize on this growth. This article will explore how Indian businesses leverage the IFSC’s unique regulatory environment and tax incentives to benefit substantially from the burgeoning aircraft leasing market.

The Booming Indian Aviation Market: A Landscape of Opportunity

India’s aviation sector’s rapid expansion is driven by a combination of factors: a growing middle class, increasing disposable incomes, improving infrastructure, and government initiatives promoting air connectivity across the country. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts substantial growth in passenger and cargo traffic in the coming years. This robust growth translates into a significant increase in demand for aircraft, making aircraft leasing a highly attractive investment opportunity.

Indian Aviation Industry Highlights

Aircraft
  • India is the 3rd largest domestic aviation market in the world
  • India is amongst the fastest growing aviation markets and is expected to cater to 520 million passengers by 2037
  • Estimated Growth in Fleet Size (YoY): 8 9%
  • India’s commercial fleet is forecasted to expand to 1100 by 2027

The IFSC Advantage: A Tailored Regulatory Environment

The IFSC in GIFT City was established to provide a globally competitive financial ecosystem, catering to both domestic and international players. For aircraft leasing, the IFSC offers a distinct advantage with its carefully designed regulatory framework, administered by the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA). This framework is characterized by:

  • Light-Touch Regulation:
  • The IFSCA adopts a light-touch regulatory approach, aiming for efficiency and ease of doing business while maintaining robust oversight. This contrasts with the often more stringent regulations in other jurisdictions, making the IFSC an attractive destination for aircraft lessors.
  • Comprehensive and Consistent Framework: The regulatory environment is designed to provide clarity and consistency, reducing uncertainties for businesses and promoting investor confidence.
  • Global Best Practices: The IFSC’s regulatory framework aligns with global best practices, making it easier for international aircraft leasing companies to operate in India.

Tax Benefits: A Key Incentive for Aircraft Leasing in the IFSC

The IFSC offers an extremely attractive tax regime designed to stimulate investment and growth in the aircraft leasing sector. This includes:

  • 100% Corporate Tax Exemption: Aircraft leasing companies can benefit from a 100% corporate tax exemption for up to 10 out of 15 consecutive years. This provides a substantial financial incentive, making the IFSC a highly competitive location compared to other jurisdictions.
  • Zero Capital Gains Tax and Stamp Duty: The absence of capital gains tax on the disposal of aircraft and the waiver of stamp duty on acquisition represent significant cost savings for leasing companies.
  • No Withholding Tax on Lease Payments and Interest: This provision further reduces the tax burden and simplifies the financial management of aircraft leasing operations.
  • Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT): While a MAT provision exists, concessional rates apply, and with the new tax regime introduced in April 2020, the MAT is effectively inapplicable for many.

These tax incentives, when combined, significantly improve the profitability and attractiveness of aircraft leasing within the IFSC and could encourage Indian Companies to dive into the Aircraft Leasing, that they been shying away all this while.

Aircraft Leasing – Why Indian Companies Shy Away From Being The ‘Lessors’?

Benefits Beyond Tax: Access to a Vibrant Ecosystem

The IFSC offers more than just favorable tax policies. It provides access to a thriving financial ecosystem, including:

  • Global Banks and Financial Institutions: The presence of numerous global banks and other major financial players within the IFSC simplifies transactions and facilitates access to capital.
  • Professional Service Providers: A comprehensive range of professional services, including legal, accounting, and auditing firms, supports businesses efficiently.
  • Global Talent Pool: The IFSC attracts a diverse and skilled workforce, ensuring access to the talent needed to manage complex aircraft leasing operations.
  • Extensive Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs): India’s extensive network of DTAAs provides further tax efficiency for international transactions.

Setting Up an Aircraft Leasing Entity in the IFSC: A Straightforward Process

Setting up an aircraft leasing entity in the IFSC is a relatively straightforward process. It involves submitting an application to the IFSCA for registration and, in most cases, approval for entry into the Special Economic Zone (SEZ). Upon approval, the entity can begin operations. The entire procedure is designed to be efficient and transparent, making it easier for businesses to establish a presence in the IFSC quickly.

Salient features for Aircraft Leasing Framework

Eligibility:

To become a Lessor for undertaking permissible activities in IFSCs, the applicant must meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the Finance Company Regulations. This includes setting up operations in IFSC in the form of a Company, LLP, Trust, or any other form specified by the IFSCA.

Permissible Activity:

Operating/Finance lease for an aircraft or an aircraft ground support equipment including the sale and lease back, purchase, novation, transfer, assignment and any such other similar transactions in relation to aircraft lease; Asset management support services for assets owned or leased out by the Lessor or by its wholly owned subsidiary in IFSC and any other related activity with the prior approval of IFSCA.

Capital Requirement:

Aircraft lessors in IFSC are required to maintain minimum own funds at all times. The minimum owned fund requirement for entities undertaking operating lease and for those undertaking financial lease or hybrid of operating and financial lease are USD 0.2 million and USD 3 million respectively.

Prudential regulations:

FCs intending to undertake finance lease in IFSCs must comply with prudential norms such as capital ratio, exposure ceiling, and liquidity coverage ratio. However, entities intending to undertake operating lease are exempt from these norms, provided they have a Board approved prudential policy and meet the fit and proper requirement set out by the Authority. All entities, regardless of the type of lease, must comply with KYC, AML, and corporate governance requirements as set out in the FC Regulations.

Setting Up At A Glance

Registrations Status – Leasing Entities with IFSCA

The first Aircraft leasing entity was registered with IFSCA on May 06, 2021, and the first aircraft was leased by an IFSC entity to a lessee in India on August 19, 2021, marking the beginning of onshoring the offshore aircraft leasing services through GIFT IFSC.

As on March 31, 2023, there are 15 lessors registered with the Authority. Further, four lessors have been granted in‐principle approval and one application is under process. As on March 31, 2023, the lessors based at GIFT IFSC have leased 26 aviation assets including aircraft, engines, etc.

The last Annual Report 2022-23 was released in Aug 2023. Going by the trend, the Annual Report 2023-24 is expected anytime from IFSCA.

Challenges and Considerations

While the IFSC offers immense opportunities, businesses should be aware of potential challenges. These may include navigating the regulatory landscape and ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, managing foreign currency transactions effectively, and carefully understanding all aspects of the tax regime before committing. Thorough due diligence and expert advice are essential for mitigating potential risks.

Conclusion:

To conclude we can say that the IFSC in GIFT City presents a compelling opportunity for Indian companies seeking to benefit from the rapid growth of the aviation sector through aircraft leasing. The combination of a favorable regulatory environment, significant tax incentives, and access to a vibrant financial ecosystem makes the IFSC an attractive destination for establishing and expanding aircraft leasing businesses. By understanding the opportunities and mitigating the potential challenges, Indian companies can leverage this platform to unlock significant growth and contribute to the further development of India’s aviation industry. Prospective investors and businesses are strongly advised to seek professional advice before making any decisions regarding investment in this domain.

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Monday, November 4, 2024

The US, BRICS And India-China

India-China and BRICS

Referring to the India-China agreement to end the standoff in eastern Ladakh US ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti has said the US has always supported India’s efforts to safeguard its strategic interests and respect of its borders. Garcetti is the blue-eyed boy of the US Administration for whom the post of ambassador was kept vacant for two years.

Declassified US documents of 1962 reveal that when Jawaharlal Nehru sought American military assistance in the wake of China’s invasion, the US administration said; give them some weapons but make sure India and China never join hands. In 1972, using Pakistan as intermediary, Nixon, and Kissinger visited China; creating the Chinese Frankenstein, which it may end up fighting.

Garcetti is shrewd enough to understand that the India-China agreement is primarily to resume patrolling, China reverting to the pre-April 2020 posture is out of the question, and PLA dismantling permanent structures is unlikely notwithstanding the hype of disengagement in the media. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who announced “disengagement is completed on October 21, changed tack on October 26 by terming the” breakthrough agreement on patrolling” as disengagement – can it get more absurd? Long-winded narratives claim India has restored the sanctity of the LAC, which is contrary to the prime minister saying no one entered our territory.

China anyway has never adhered to agreements it has signed and the same goes for global norms, which it does not respect. Recall that within a month of the India-China pullback at Doklam, PLA was back in developing defences, occupying North Doklam and establishing dual-use villages. Akso, Tapir Gao, BJP MO from Arunachal had told Parliament that the PLA has occupied territory more than 60 km deep inside Arunachal Pradesh and that the next Doklam, if it happens, will be in Arunachal Pradesh – yet there is no word on it either from the government or the media.

Indian production capabilities are hinged on critical raw material, technology, spares and technical support – for which it cannot decouple from China. Where India is welcoming Chinese investments, India is also investing in China; for example ,the Shanghai-based Adani Energy Resources Company (AERCL) incorporated on September 2, 2024. Also, despite booming Indian economy and $689.5 billion FOREX reserves in the limelight, India ranks 105 in Global Hunger Index (GHI); facing severe food insecurity and malnutrition, while 83 million Indians (of the 1.45 billion) live below the poverty line, subsisting daily on ess than $2.15,

The West has been trumpeting that Russia’s economy in the dumps for the past few years, which the IMF now calls 4th largest economy in the world. Similar is the Western hype over China’s economy, as if it will disintegrate like the Soviet Union. But yes, the Chinese economy is not in good health, which is why China wants to regain its hold on Indian markets and increase contacts at all levels to further its national interests. Besides, China is already benefiting $100 billion annually through trade with India, the accumulated total of which since 2000 exceeds $1.4 trillion.

In the 16th BRICS Summit held Russia during October 2024, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced the BRICS new payment system, saying, “There is an urgent need to reform the international financial architecture, and BRICS must play a leading role in promoting a new system that better reflects the profound changes in the international economic balance of power.” Russia’s President Vladimir Putin introduced the creation of a BRICS investment platform to facilitate mutual investment between BRICS countries. The blockchain-based BRICS pay system, like the SWIFT payment platform, would facilitate nations within the group to promote the use of their currencies for trade.

The above summit was held in the shadow of: the US-led West arbitrarily seizing funds in the Central banks of Afghanistan and Russia and weaponizing the SWIFT system. The US-led G7 has now sanctioned an allotment of $50 billion to Ukraine out of Russian frozen finds – a case of extreme highhandedness amounting to economic terrorism. The latest is that 159 out of the 193 countries are said to have signed up to use the new BRICS settlement system bypassing the SWIFT system.

The Western media largely ignored the BRICS Summit; while some have voiced that western financial hegemony will remain significantly unaffected. Jim O’Neill, former Goldman Sachs chief economist, told Reuters: Western attempts to isolate Russia over the Ukraine war have failed and that Russia is building ties with the rising powers of Asia. BRICS now accounts for 45% of the world’s population and 35% of its economy in terms of purchasing power parity (PP), though China accounts for more than half of its economic might; China and India are actually really trying to agree on things, rather than effectively trying to confront each other all the time.

Jim O’Neil doesn’t see a challenge to the dollar but he did not comment on latest news that 159 out of the 193 countries have signed up to use the new BRICS settlement system. More important is what if the India-China economic engagement continues to increase, keeping the border issue aside – which China has been stressing for many years? Would this not be the most serious concern of the US, even though the BRICS is still dabbling in creating an exclusive currency for the bloc that will hasten de-dollarization?

To say that the US is happy with the economic rise of India would be the height of foolishness; one has to just examine the political shenanigans of Eric Garcetti and his posse before India’s general elections earlier this year to understand the implications. Jeffery D Sachs explains how America changed regimes in Pakistan and Bangladesh, which it is doing globally pretty frequently; using CIA and the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) – a CIA-funded NGO established in 1983 (headed by CIA Director William Casey) in the garb of strengthening democratic institutions through its worldwide grants program.

British investigative journalist Kit Klarenberg has described how the CIA and NED operate to down governments (less the failed $1 billion effort to overthrow the government in Syria) and how the regime change was effected in Kiev in 2014 to install Volodymyr Zelensky as the President of Ukraine.

Interestingly, while giving credible explanation of the US involvement in downing the Imran Khan government in Pakistan, Jeffery D Sachs sats the US did not like Imran playing the game with the US, Russia and China simultaneously. The Indian media terms the India-China patrolling agreement a geopolitical signal by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the US – not to take India for granted. But wouldn’t the US view Modi playing the same game as Imran Khan?

We may call this Modi’s acumen of tightrope walking but the CIA-NED would be working overtime under Donald Lu, Assistant Secretary of State for South Asia and Central Asia in the US State Department; Donald Lu being the carbon copy, if not worse, of Victoria Nuland who orchestrated the regime change in Ukraine. Garcetti may be bamboozled for not doing enough. This would be the priority of the US notwithstanding how tight Modi hugs the POTUS – present or the next one.

The author is an Indian Army veteran. Views expressed are personal.

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Saturday, September 28, 2024

The Murky Manipur Conundrum

Manipur

Manipur’s State Security Advisor Kuldip Singh said in a press conference on September 20 that government’s intelligence inputs indicate entry of “900 Kuki militants” from Myanmar. These inputs were shared by Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s office with DG Police and the Security Advisor in the previous week.

The 398-km Manipur-Myanmar border is guarded by the Assam Rifles (AR), which is under the operational control of the Indian Army. The Army has asked the Security Advisor for details of this infiltration, to which he is yet to respond. Army’s Spear Corps posted on X:”These inputs have very serious security implications and the office of the Security Adviser has been requested to share the details so that appropriate necessary action can be taken at the earliest.”

Speculation is that the said inputs may have been “imagined: by Biren Singh since Union Home Minister Amit Shah has been saying that the violence in Manipur is only because of infiltrating Kuki militants who are not Manipuris, which certainly is not the case. The move to accord scheduled tribe to the entire majority Meitei community triggered the violence in May 2023.  It is only in February 2024 that the Manipur High Court has ordered deletion of a paragraph from the March 2023 order that urged the state to consider including the Meitei community in the Scheduled tribe, saying the paragraph was in conflict with the Supreme Court’s constitutional bench stance.  

Reasons why Manipur is heading towards civil war can be read here. Violence is continuing, while protests and disinformation have reached a new high.  Defying curfew, student protesters clashed with the police. Many students were reported injured in an attempt to storm Raj Bhavan. The protestors demanded removal of “Centre-appointed” State Security Advisor Kuldip Singh and DG Police Rajiv Singh. The agitation intensified after a rocket bomb attack in Bishenpur and the gunfight in Jiribam in which six people were killed; including the lynching-killing of former Indian Army soldier Limkholoi Mate (Kuki-Zo) by Meitei militants.  

There is little doubt that the student protests (all Meitei) were engineered by Biren Singh’s administration. Their demand seeking the resignation of 50 MLA’s from the Imphal Valley (not the 10 Kuki MLAs) is evidence enough. Seeking the removal of the State’s Security Advisor  and the DGP is to give Manipur police and the Meitei militant groups (Arambai Tenggol included) free-hand in continuing the ethnic cleansing. 

To add credence to the theory of Kuki/foreign hand behind the student protests, a huge poster of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the heart of Imphal was allowed to be torn down – first time incident across India since Modi came to power in May 2014.

All out efforts are on to downplay the ethnic cleansing by Biren Singh – posing that the violence is not a Hindu-Christian problem. However, this is true perhaps only on following two counts: deal signed with a Centre-favoured corporate (advance money taken) for palm plantation on 6,000 hectares of land in Manipur, from where Kuki-Zio were shooed away; taking full control of the narcotics trade, annual turnover of which is assumed to be Rs 50,000 crore.

Ethnic cleansing remains Biren Singh’s main agenda. He denies the existence of Arambai Tenggol but his photographs with them in media proves he is hand-in-glove with the organization. Ironically, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not visited Manipur (perhaps on the advice of Amit Shah), nor has the NSA Ajit Doval, who claims to have stayed in Myanmar under cover with Mizo rebels for a few months in his youth.  

In a media interview, Lt. Gen. PC Nair, former DG Assam Rifles (till July 31, 2024) has said that the news about drones dropping bomb was fabricated, in that, no bombs were dropped by drones.

Gen Nair has also reportedly spoken to the Chief of Army Staff on the issue, according to a post on X:

Being in uniform, the Army and Assam Rifles deployed in Manipur cannot speak on the issue. But multiple ground sources confirm no bombs/grenades were dropped by drones in Manipur. Manipur’s Police IG (Ops) LK Muivah has countered what Gen Nair has said. But Muivah is part of the Biren Singh administration and has no option but to abide by the official narrative; under fear of being sacked or done away with. 

The disinformation campaign includes that the Assam Rifles is giving an absolutely free hand to the Kuki-Zo, 3000-6000 veteran Assam Rifles (Kuki-Zo) are joining the Kuki-Zo militant factions, the US is supporting the Kuki-Zo, China is supplying them arms. It is also being said that Kuki-Zo attempted to loot a police armoury, whereas, over 4,000 weapons and some 50,000 rounds of ammunition purportedly looted from police/IRB armories in May 2023 were “distributed” to Meitei militants as per ground sources.

The Manipur Police have been recently equipped with MMGs, which the  Indian Army is not even allowed to carry when called out for restoring law and order in internal security situations; owing to the principle of using ‘minimum force”. But Biren Singh probably believes in employing “maximum force” for effective ethnic cleansing.

The Army is rendered ineffective in Imphal Valley in absence of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, which is by design. Biren Singh wants to abrogate the SoO agreement with all the 25 Kuki-Zo-Hmar groups and himself chair the Unified Command of all security forces in Manipur; to get the Army/AR to abide by his sinister designs?

The former Governor of Manipur had reportedly informed the Centre that the ground situation in Manipur is worse than what is being reported in the media. The present situation in Manipur is so bad that AFSPA needs to be immediately re-imposed in all Manipur, including in the Imphal Valley.

General VP Malik, former Chief of Army Staff has suggested that President’s rule should be imposed in Manipur. Earlier, he had also posted on X: Dividing India on the basis of language, religions, castes, flags and so on as vote banks. We forget India’s historical lesson of ‘fighting within’ and which enabled foreigners to rule us for centuries. India’s national security and collective development at stake

But the Centre appears intent on compounding the mess made by Biren Singh since May 2023. Manipur doesn’t even have a full-time governor; Governor of Assam holds the additional charge of Governor Manipur. The Centre appears to believe that the wounds of Manipur will heal by themselves. It is the same Ostrich Policy that was followed when the Chinese invaded Eastern Ladakh during April-May 2020. 

The author is an Indian Army veteran. Views expressed are personal.

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Coldplay: Music Of The Spheres Or Market Of Madness

Coldplay Music Band

Coldplay’s much-anticipated “Music of the Spheres” world tour has been making waves globally, and its arrival in India has sparked an unparalleled fan frenzy. Known for their stadium-filling anthems, emotional ballads, and spectacular live performances, the British rock band is one of the world’s biggest musical acts. Their decision to make tour tickets accessible to fans across all economic spectrums earned them immense praise. However, in a country like India, where Coldplay’s fan base is vast and passionate, ticketing for their concerts has turned into an intense battleground. In an unfortunate turn of events, scalpers have taken over, buying out tickets in bulk and reselling them at exorbitant prices, making it increasingly difficult for genuine fans to access the shows. 

Coldplay formed in 1996 and consists of Chris Martin, Jonny Buckland, Guy Berryman , and Will Champion. The band achieved worldwide fame with their single “Yellow” in 2000, and their debut album “Parachutes” made them global superstars. Over the years, Coldplay has continued to redefine their sound, exploring various genres from alternative rock to pop and electronic music. Their albums, including “A Rush of Blood to the Head”, “Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends”, and “Everyday Life”, have been critically acclaimed and have solidified their place as one of the best-selling bands of all time.

Their concerts are known for their grandeur, featuring dazzling light shows, pyrotechnics, and interactive experiences for fans. Coldplay has always taken great pride in creating immersive live experiences, and their “Music of the Spheres” tour is no different. However, what sets this tour apart is Coldplay’s commitment to making tickets affordable, ensuring that fans from various socioeconomic backgrounds can partake in the magic of their performances.

When Coldplay announced the India leg of their “Music of the Spheres” tour, the excitement was palpable. Fans eagerly awaited the opportunity to see the band perform live in cities like Mumbai. As expected, tickets sold out in record time. The initial announcement saw tickets disappearing within minutes on the official platform, BookMyShow, which handled the sales. With overwhelming demand, Coldplay added a second show in Mumbai to accommodate more fans, and these tickets were set to go on sale on January 21st. However, even with the additional show, the situation remained chaotic.

Fans were left frustrated when tickets for the second show sold out within 30 minutes of going live. Many reported issues accessing the BookMyShow website due to high traffic. Others who managed to secure tickets found them disappearing from their carts before they could complete the purchase. It was clear that the overwhelming demand for tickets had resulted in a near-impossible situation for many fans.

Amidst the chaos of tickets selling out in record time, another issue quickly came to light: scalpers had swooped in to exploit the situation. Tickets, which Coldplay had purposefully priced affordably, were now being resold at astronomical rates. The resale market witnessed markups as high as 2000% of the original price. Scalpers were making profits of 30 times the face value of tickets, essentially holding fans hostage. The resale market became a playground for those looking to make a quick buck, with some scalpers buying tickets in bulk and reselling them at exorbitant rates.

For example, tickets originally priced at ₹5,000 were being resold for upwards of ₹1,50,000 on unauthorized platforms. While Coldplay had made efforts to keep their tickets reasonably priced, these scalpers disrupted the accessibility that the band had aimed for. Fans found themselves facing an impossible choice: either purchase from unauthorized sellers at highly inflated rates or miss out on the concert entirely.

The issue with ticket scalping isn’t new, but in India, it has taken on a life of its own due to the lack of stringent regulations. Although official sources, such as BookMyShow, issued warnings against purchasing tickets from unauthorized sellers, fans were left with little to no choice. BookMyShow and similar platforms have no control over the resale market, which operates in the shadows on websites, social media, and messaging platforms.

The government and local authorities have not introduced concrete policies to prevent ticket scalping or regulate the resale market. While other countries have begun cracking down on this practice, India remains largely unregulated in this regard. This allows scalpers to buy tickets in bulk without fear of consequences, thereby driving up prices in the resale market.

For true Coldplay fans, the situation is heartbreaking. Many have been waiting for years to see the band live, and the affordability of tickets gave them hope. However, the skyrocketing prices in the resale market have priced out fans who had initially been thrilled about the prospect of attending a concert.

Fans took to social media to express their frustration, anger, and disappointment. Many shared stories of how they had saved up for months to buy tickets, only to find themselves unable to afford the resale prices. The community of Coldplay fans is known for its loyalty and love for the band, but this ticketing fiasco has left many feeling alienated and hopeless. While Coldplay had good intentions with their pricing, the loopholes in the system have made it nearly impossible for genuine fans to secure tickets at a fair price.

This situation demands an investigation into how so many tickets ended up in the hands of scalpers and resellers. Fans deserve transparency from ticket-selling platforms like BookMyShow, which should provide a clear explanation of how tickets were allocated and sold. Were tickets being hoarded by bots and scalpers, leaving genuine fans out in the cold? Are there any preventive measures in place to ensure that tickets reach the right hands?

Moreover, there is a need for greater regulation of the resale market. Authorities must step in to introduce measures that limit bulk buying by scalpers and ensure fair access to tickets. The resale market should be regulated to prevent excessive markups, with limits on the prices at which tickets can be resold. Other countries have successfully implemented laws to curb scalping, and India should follow suit. Platforms like BookMyShow must collaborate with law enforcement agencies to monitor and crack down on illegal resales.

Coldplay’s commitment to fair pricing is not unique to India. Around the world, the band has made efforts to ensure that their tickets are accessible to all. While many global artists inflate ticket prices based on demand, Coldplay has remained steadfast in their belief that music should be for everyone, regardless of their financial situation. They could have easily priced their tickets at 10 or 20 times the current rates and still sold out arenas worldwide, but they chose not to.

This decision reflects Coldplay’s ethos of inclusivity and kindness, principles that are often reflected in their music and interactions with fans. However, the good intentions behind their affordable pricing have been overshadowed by the exploitation of resellers, leaving fans in India wondering what went wrong and where the system failed them.

The excitement surrounding Coldplay’s “Music of the Spheres” tour in India has been dampened by the unfair practices of ticket scalping and resale markets. While the band’s decision to keep tickets affordable was admirable, the lack of regulation and enforcement in the Indian ticketing system allowed scalpers to profit at the expense of genuine fans.

It is time for ticket-selling platforms, government authorities, and law enforcement agencies to come together to introduce policies that protect fans and prevent scalpers from monopolizing the market. Fans deserve better, and Coldplay’s message of inclusivity and fairness should extend to the process of accessing tickets. With greater transparency, regulation, and accountability, the experience of attending a live concert can once again be about the music, rather than the struggle to secure tickets.

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Friday, September 20, 2024

Ready Player India | Russia-Ukraine War

Russian Army

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Poland and Ukraine, simultaneous with Ukraine’s Kursk offensive into Russia has been making headline news; Modi’s main emphasis was for a  ceasefire in Ukraine. India attended the Summit for Peace in Ukraine, hosted by Switzerland, in June this year, where Russia was not even invited.

The NATO Multinational Corps Northeast is located at Szczecin (Poland) and Poland is the conduit for US-NATO-EU weapons and equipment for Ukraine especially when inducted by rail-road. Poland was occupied and brutalized by Germany during World War II but the US-led Nazification in the aftermath of World War II took a 360 degree turn

Voodoo of Zelensky’s cursed handshake caused whoever shook hands with him had to resign – Boris Johnson, Mario Draghi, Rishi Sunak, Sana Marin, Fumio Kishida and Joe Biden quitting the presidential race. But Modi sucked Zelensky’s voodoo with his characteristic hug; raising queries whose voodoo is stronger.

Interestingly, Modi told Zelensky, “India was never neutral, we have always been on the side of peace, and India was ready to play an active role in the path to peace and progress.”

After the Modi-Zelensky discussion in Kyiv, Foreign Minister Jaishankar said in a press briefing that Modi and Zelenskyy focused significantly on peace. A Joint Communiqué on a Peace Framework provides a basis for advancing dialogue and diplomacy. The Ukrainian side welcomed India’s participation and underscored the need for continued high-level engagement in future peace initiatives.

Zelensky proposed India among the Global South for hosting the second Ukraine Peace Summit.  But in an hour-long interaction with Indian media, Zelensky described his meeting with Modi “very good” and “historic”. He said the top issue during his talks was India’s oil purchases from Russia. Describing India a “big country” with “big influence” on Russian economy, Zelensky said if India and Indians “change their attitude” towards Russia, the war will end because Russian President Vladimir Putin will end it.

On August 27, the POTUS Joe Biden telephoned Modi to inquire about his visit to Ukraine. Modi reiterated India’s position in favour of dialogue and diplomacy, expressing support for early return of peace and stability. Both leaders affirmed their continued support for a peaceful resolution of the conflict in accordance with international law, and commitment to further strengthen cooperation in multilateral forums, including the Quad.

Next day Modi spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Modi shared insights from his visit to Ukraine and underlined the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to achieve an abiding and peaceful resolution of the conflict. Both leaders reviewed progress on bilateral issues and discussed measures to strengthen bilateral India-Russia relations.

The Ukraine war has hit the global economy hard and disrupted supply chains but the Russian economy has emerged stronger despite US sanctions. Some Indians opine that Russia also wants peace because no side is winning and war casualties are mounting; although Ukrainian casualties are many times more and multiple sources confirm NATO troops in Ukrainian uniforms are part of the Kursk offensive. Zelensky is also inching towards hitting the Russian nuclear plant (s) awaiting Biden’s signal.

It is obvious that the moment Modi departed from Ukraine, a report on his visit would have been on Biden’s table; Zelensky may have even spoken to Biden personally. The pattern is very clear why Zelensky proposed the second Ukraine Peace Summit in India and why the call from Biden; playing on Modi’s penchant for limelight, global gatherings, photo ops and the like.  .

But the ‘followers’ are busy flogging the dead horse of Aman Ki Asha; preparing the ground for the summit, also arguing that despite Zelensky’s maximalist position, he wants a ceasefire. The announcement may be before Modi’s visit to the US in September 2024 or after his return. Modi would be in global focus  chairing the summit, with probably bigger attendance than the first Ukraine Peace Summit. Biden and Zelensky would love to attend in person, Putin may attend virtually and the media will headline India Talks and World Listens.

Are we so naïve to miss the charade Biden and Zelensky are playing by posing they want a ceasefire in Ukraine, and Modi can bring peace in Ukraine?  Consider the following:

  • Deputed by America, Boris Johnson sabotaged the Ukraine-Russia ceasefire deal within 3-months of hostilities breaking out in February 2022.
  • Peace plan proposals by China and the African Union have been rejected by the West.
  • The US can direct Zelensky to speak to Putin directly or Biden can himself speak to Putin, as he is desperate to speak to Chinese President Xi Jinping having sent Jake Sullivan to set it up.
  • The undeniable fact is that peace anywhere (not Ukraine alone) is anathema to the US – the biggest threat. Peace implies death of America’s deep state and end of the Rogue-Based World Order.
  • America is the biggest hatchery of terrorism, including in South Asia, as can be read here.  
  • The sweet pill of projecting Modi as the “peace dove” is to divert from the US hand in the Bangladesh coup, American actions in Myanmar, and ongoing political shenanigans of Eric Garcetti and Jennifer Larson to destabilize India.      

The US is posing to save India from Chinese aggression – a la’ Ukraine. Not just getting hold of India markets but exploiting all avenues and every opportunity to benefit American interests, with India acting the Ready Player. Why does the recently signed Security of Supplies Arrangement (SOSA) have a clause to say India will have an official industry code, under which Indian companies would voluntarily pledge to use all reasonable means to assist US military interests “first”?.

Unlike America, China needs no effort to get the services of Ready Player India. Our foreign ministry continues the charade of talks with China, having lost control of over 4000 sq km territory in Ladakh in 2020.But an inter-ministerial panel has cleared five-six investment proposals in the electronics manufacturing sector, which includes Chinese firms. The panel meets every six-seven weeks to grant approvals, which implies more Chinese investments are likely.  The reason given is that investment and technology are critical to develop local manufacturing supply chains in areas like high-tech components. India has already relaxed visa-rules for Chinese technicians.

It is being said no Chinese nationals can occupy key executive roles in any joint venture or foreign company in India and the Chinese company can only hold a minority stake in partnership. Jaishankar said it is common sense to scrutinize Chinese investments. Do we understand how China operates? Arnab Goswami talks about Meta and big-tech US companies working for the CIA, but China is already inside the Indian media ().

There is much discussion about the 100 ‘smart’ cities – names, ranking and which states these are located in. Did ‘smart’ include drainage, sanitation, and pollution at all? Why are so many Indian cities with high pollution, increasing pollution in the national capital with every passing year, and 50% rise in Delhi’s critical water-logging spots? Are we proud of having Asia’s tallest stinking 100-feet high Ghazipur garbage-mountain in the national capital, in addition to two more man-made garbage mountains?     

Maximum economic offenders fleeing India are Gujaratis but the Gujarati also know how to exploit every opportunity into economic gain – modern version of ‘Dhanna Seth’ of the Akbar era. Witness the glee on foreign faces enjoying the ‘Bulldozer Tourism’ in Vadodara. This would certainly give a novel twist to foreign tourism, aside from site visits where roads made with space technology have gobbled up cars, scooters, and even humans.     

After 100 smart cities, establishing 12 industrial cities has been announced, which are expected to create 10 lakh jobs. Successful manufacturing in these 12 new industrial cities require a vast labour force with requisite skills. Presently, 85% of India’s workforce is employed in agriculture or enterprises with fewer than 10 workers, where value-added per worker remains low. Hopefully, we are not planning to raise the requisite skilled force in a time-span like the eight-hour Gaza ceasefire for giving polio drops to 6,40,000 children. Will this lead to more Chinese technicians and investments?

Finally, hosting the second Ukraine Peace Summit may be good for the prime minister’s ego but no peace in Ukraine is possible unless the US wants it. Also, amid the noise of shunning all things colonial, we have gone all out to patronize the colonial game of cricket – which everyone loves. But being Ready Player to all and sundry implies getting kicked around like a football.

The author is an Indian Army veteran. Views expressed are personal.

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Wednesday, September 4, 2024

Importance Of Styling and Sprucing Up Your Sentences?

Rise of Virtual Meetings

Once I was stricken in a situation where I needed to know the name of a girl who was going to the same tutor center with me for about 10 days and I was so annoyed of the fact of waiting 5 min extra for her that I never thought of knowing her name. Once there occurred a situation where I realized this and obviously it would have been rude to ask directly so the next day I came up with an idea to bring up a conversation with her where it was quite destined to bring her name. It went like, “you have a little sister, quite right maybe?” yes I do. “What’s her name? “Her name is Maria. “Really?!I thought that’s your name”. No, my name is Sana.

Not a sign of what was actually a reason to bring her sister all of a sudden. That’s a clean move.

The fact that you have to think about what comes out of your mouth is a very hard job, and those who learn to do it beautifully are themselves an artist of language and communication.

Have you ever tried learning a second language?

But have you considered perfecting your first before?

Relevance Of English As A Global Language

I had communicative English as a minor in my first semester in college, they taught everything  about saying the right words. When I attended its first class, I was not happy with it, I felt like I chose a wrong subject but later I realized it’s a very important that they teach you to express yourself and engage with the world out there in a clearer way. The elaborative ,effective and basic knowledge are what a lot of us are missing these days. Its not only just few sentences but a very important part of our life as it shapes us and it polishes our personality and add wisdom. Communicative English, despite my initial reservations, turned out to be a transformative subject. At first, I perceived it as merely an academic formality, a class focused on linguistic precision. However, as the course progressed, I began to understand its profound impact on both personal and professional dimensions of life. The skills learned extend far beyond the basic ability to speak or write correctly; they are foundational for effective interaction and meaningful communication.

Through Communicative English, I learned how to convey my thoughts with clarity and confidence, essential skills in today’s interconnected world. The course emphasized not only grammar and vocabulary but also the nuances of tone, context, and audience engagement. These elements are crucial for successful dialogue and persuasion, whether in academic presentations, professional meetings, or everyday conversations.

Moreover, this subject has enhanced my self-expression and critical thinking abilities. By understanding and applying the principles of effective communication utilizing appropriate sentences, I’ve been able to present my ideas more compellingly and listen more attentively. This, in turn, has enriched my relationships and broadened my perspectives. Ultimately, Communicative English is not just about mastering language; it’s about personal growth, professional advancement, and becoming more adept at navigating the complexities of modern life.

Time has a way of revealing deeper truths, and one day it might also unravel the full essence of language and its complexities. Language is more than a mere system of symbols and sounds; it is an intricate dance of expression and interpretation, where every nuance plays a critical role in conveying our true intentions. The subtleties of communication extend beyond the words we choose; they encompass our tone, posture, and emotional undertones, which collectively shape how our messages are received and understood.

Imagine an appreciation delivered with a flat, monotone voice—despite the positive intent behind the words, it can easily be perceived as insincere or even mocking. Conversely, a genuine comment wrapped in an enthusiastic and upbeat tone can be uplifting and affirming. This dynamic underscores the importance of aligning our verbal and non-verbal cues to ensure that our communication is clear and authentic.

Our tone, body language, and the way we deliver our words can completely alter the meaning of a sentence. For instance, a simple phrase like “Nice job” can be interpreted in various ways depending on how it is spoken. If said with a warm, encouraging tone, it can boost confidence and morale. However, if uttered with a dismissive or sarcastic inflection, it might convey the opposite message. This highlights the critical role that practice and self-awareness play in effective communication.

Furthermore, our practice in conversation—how often we engage in dialogue and how thoughtfully we do so—affects our communicative proficiency. Active listening and thoughtful response through appropriates sentences contribute to more meaningful and constructive exchanges. Through continuous practice and mindfulness, we refine our ability to convey genuine sentiments and understand others better.

Ultimately, mastering the art of communication involves more than just learning the rules of language. It requires an appreciation of the delicate balance between words and the myriad ways they can be perceived. By paying attention to these subtleties, we can enhance our interactions and foster deeper, more authentic connections with those around us.

For time unravels all the secrets and let’s hope one day it will unravel the secret of language. Your posture includes the way you speak for what you speak and how positive it may sound.

Suppose there would be an appreciation said in a dull manner would sound like a jeer, but sometimes a comment portrayed in a happy Shriek could be thought of a compliment.

Your tone implies your actual meaning of sentence.

So does your practice of conversation.

Just some deep observations.

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Sounds of Manipur in Supreme Court

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes News in the mainstream media on Manipur is as ambiguous as the Chinese intrusions during April-May 2...