Time to Upgrade Our Independence
This blog is coinciding with the occasion of India’s 74th Independence Day observed under the shadow of the coronavirus pandemic. On high notes, the construction of the Ram Mandir finally began with a billion people watching the Bhoomi Poojan ceremony live; the New Education Policy 2020, with long-pending major reforms in education, has finally rolled out, and five freshly purchased Rafael fighter jets flew into the Indian skies escorted by two Sukhoi-30 jets that reminded me of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.
I was with him at HAL when on 4th January 2001, Wg. Cdr. Rajiv Kothiyal flew in the very first LCA, named KH 2001 to honour its designer Dr Kota Harinaryana. On June 8, 2006, I was at Lohegaon Air Force Station in Pune when President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam flew in a Sukhoi-30 fighter plane. He was donning anti-gravity suit. It was a majestic site to see a line of Sukhoi-planes on that occasion. Later on March 7, 2007, I attended Fleet Review by President Kalam coinciding with the Platinum Jubilee of the Indian Air Force and watched the awe-inspiring fly past by IAF aircraft when 17 Jaguars fighter planes flew in a formation of number 75 over our heads with a deafening sound. Of course, we took mortal body of Dr Kalam to Madurai in the gigantic The Lockheed four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft C-130 aircraft on July 29, 2015.
My latest book “India Wakes” found initial acceptance and appreciation. It was called “the most democratic book published in years.” It received praise with the words, “the book’s value lies in its timeliness and straight talk.” The book audaciously proclaimed, “India is increasingly well positioned to replace China as part of the global supply chain, and India is now and likely will continue to be a rapidly growing market.”
We called the first chapter of the book, “Botched Up Independence,” quoting an eye-witness, Mr. Narendra Luther, “It was independence for those who were not disturbed from their homes and hearths. It was partition for an estimated twenty million people who were uprooted from their moorings and became penniless refugees.” The book put before the modern generation the three burdens that India has carried since independence — a hostile and always scheming, troubled neighborhood, many decades of economic stagnation, and the delay in the weaponization of our military forces, as we were spreading the message of peace that no one was really taking.
Even today, our rich and powerful live in their own bubbles, as though not needing anyone in the world, or rather, living in the knowing that the world needs them to keep moving. Fed up with this hypocrisy, a large number of brilliant Indians went abroad, and it is not by chance that people of Indian origin are at the helms of giant companies like Microsoft, Google and IBM, whereas not even one Indian company can be called a global one. There are no buyers for many of our “Ratnas” as we call our public sector companies.
It is therefore important to understand the right meaning of the word “independence.” What Lokmanya Balgangadhar Tilak called “Swaraj” as a “birthright” in 1916, turned out to be “Swarthraj” by those in power. What Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru called India’s “Tryst with Destiny” was indeed murder and mayhem as Saadat Hasan Manto observing those times wrote, “Human beings had instituted rules against murder and mayhem in order to distinguish themselves from beasts of prey. None was observed in the murderous orgy that shook India to the core at the dawn of independence.”
According to the Principle of Dependent Arising, a key doctrine of Buddhist philosophy, any phenomenon arises in dependence upon other phenomena: “If this exists, that exists; if this ceases to exist, that also ceases to exist.” Later, Stephen Covey wrote in his famous book “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”, “You cannot continuously improve until you progressively perfect interdependent relationships.” The fact that stares upon us is that while independence without interdependence leaves us isolated, interdependence without independence leaves us vulnerable.
My generation has seen the breaking up of joint families into “independent” nuclear families of their children. Our children are living through the stress of raising their “independent- spirited” children, expressing their adoration only on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. The “independent opinions” floating on the Internet are as toxic and hazardous as plastic bags in a city drainage system – choking it and stinking. The profanity and crassness seen on social media are precariously detrimental to civil society.
The most urgent need of the hour is to regain the spirit of interdependence for that is the basic truth of our lives. My friend, Dr. Mpoki Ulisubisya, the High Commissioner of the United Republic of Tanzania to Canada, calls it “Ubuntu,” an African term that means, “I am, because we are.” No human being can flourish without the support of the family. It is like “a circle within a circle” situation. Families flourish within close-knit communities. Communities depend on harmonious societies and countries become prosperous doing business as trading blocs.
We have seen many “what if’s” in our history to the great lament and regret of the future generations. What if the British had never come to India, or say, by 1810 or so, a loose confederacy of Sikh, Maratha and Deccan rulers had managed to kick out the British, the French and the Portuguese? Or, had Mir Jafar, the commander-in-chief of Siraj-ud-Daulah’s army, bribed by Robert Clive, not betrayed his nawab? Or what if Cyril John Radcliffe had applied mind and method over a period of time and not partitioned India in five weeks’ time? Or, what if Prime Minister Nehru had not turned upside down the “village republic” ideal of his mentor, Gandhiji, in favour of the centralized economy of Soviet Russia?
Another “what if” is staring at us today. The world has a predatory superpower on the prowl, and failure to act against the threat it poses will be a historic blunder. I read a story “Nanhi Laal Chunni” (Little Red Riding Hood) in my school. Re-enacting this fairy tale with China is too risky and scary. For the dream of a 5-trillion-dollar economy to turn true, we ought to bridge the 50-billion-dollar trade deficit with China. What if we do not? What if 20 million affordable houses are not built, and farmers’ incomes are not doubled by 2022? The independence of the country needs an upgrade by unwavering action to improve the living conditions of our people.
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Arun ji, very well written. Congratulations for the new book “India Wakes”. Very well brought out the importance of regaining sprit of independence by asking the meaning of independence. The emphasis on independence combined with interdependence is very relevant for the next generation. I agree no one can flourish with out the support of family.
Marvelously articulated the different facets of Independence in your blog coinciding with the occasion of India’s 74th Independence day, Prof Tiwariji !
Your clarion call for unwavering action to improve the living conditions of our people is very apt for the occasion.
Hi Arun, Congratulations on your new book. I wish you and your book all the success.
Great reminder of views of many eminent people. in your blog. One really has to pause and think at this juncture. We as people are going through a tremendous transition. Nations take decades and centuries to build.
I am of the opinion that with so much of talent guided by our very rich thought process, wisdom and philosophy we will become what we are truly destined to be. With high hopes and tremendous faith in our people, My very best!
The picture is so delightful!
Yes, we need to upgrade our independence, there can’t be any other priority then this. You have very rightly identified two ‘Sankalp’ of our PM: proving housing and doubling farmer’s income by the time we complete 75 years of our independence in 2022. Now, freedom from Chinese supply chain gets added to this. Every Indian has to rise to achieve this.
For some strange reasons we remained a big nation without a strong economy, a properly armed military and apologetic about our civilizational heritage. This has led to best of our people going out as and when they could. They proved their mettle there as we can see them heading all great global corporation. While every single company in India is standing on the shoulders of other global companies.
I consider Jio without Samsung, a good sign and want to see many more such acts of independence. It is time for our public sector companies to reinvent themselves or bow out of the scene. Nation can’t feed their inefficient existence forever. And why? Like the LCA has revived HAL, who is going to revive ITE? The list is very long… and there are companies not even worth mentioning their names. What kind of Atmanirbhar India we can be with these dead weights on our economy?
Well brought out points indeed.
Agreed that inspite of ‘independence’ and more than 70 years of it, people are still struggling
as the basic facilities are not available or deprived of it. Somehow over the years, educating the masses has not yielded the results. It is only through education that the shortcomings cam be overcome.
The cause needs to be identified and it is heartening to note that now we are breaking the shackles of the British system of 11+1 or 10+2 (modified in years but not in terms of access or the content or the purpose). Criticism follows every good action. Notwithstanding that, let us move forward to a new India. Jai Hind!
Great writeup, at an apt time, I read it 15th morning then there was no comment , Now i m putting my comment after many great comment by our fellow beings.
Dear sir one more great benefit of reading of your blog – It gives good opportunity to read great views of many wise people without any noise & disturbance.
The line I like most among many great in this blog is “It is therefore important to understand the right meaning of the word “independence.”
This blog also teaches us how to realize, Independence while being interdependent and How to pursue interdependence while being independent – Like the great spirit of cooperation with competition.
Dear sir you exuberantly explained “Whats if” from past to present and cautioned for future in last para. We can’t restropectatively change past mistake but we can learn to rectify present mistake and achieve great goal.
One author whom I and You both admire (Yuval Noah Harari), wrote first sentence of his third book (21 Lessons for the 21st Century): “In a world deluged by irrelevant information clarity is power.” Your all blog and post on your FB timeline gives deep clarity.
Sir I wish great success for your book.
It is always inspiring to read the words written by Tiwari Sir.
Also, the comments and conversations in response to his articles from so many important people from across the world. His writings always stir emotions and passions of so many.
After reading this article and beautiful comments these lines come to my mind from India Awakes. “We may not find a true solution either in the thesis or in the anti-thesis but by evaluating both. Buddha called it a Golden Mean – a middle path between self-indulgence and self-renunciation.” – Chapter – Competing in the Digital Age (Page 415)
Dear Arun sir, thank you once again for making us think on yet another very important subject.
Without your blogs, we generally do not take a pause to think on some subjects exclusively! Thanks for inspiring as always..
After reading the blog, I feel that I have many thoughts to share however, in a nutshell, all that comes to my mind is APJ Abdul Kalam sir’s life – the way he lived and demonstrated is the answer!
How truly he blossomed above all under the same difficult circumstance we all live in!
From Rameshwaram to Rastrapati Bhavan! From rejection (Air force interview) to Roar in Sukhoi-30! From seeings the birds fly (on the shore of Rameshwaram with his dad) to making see the missiles and Tejas fly! From knowing the escape velocity to transcendental spiritual wisdom! (True Independence!)
Kalam Sir’s life is a hope – way forward – way to be truly independent – and a way to contribute our bit for this huge nation and mankind! Happy to see the reflection of his wisdom and life in Arun’s sir’s life, blogs and books..Keep inspiring!
All the best for the book. Looking forward to read it.. Thanks.
Congratulations on ur book will add it to my collection soon. Now talking about independence and the life of the 21st century, as mentioned that the families are breaking into nuclear families to live an independent life. yes , it is too much stress as we are staying approx 1600 km away at Hyderabad staying far away from our parents and relatives and we really don’t have anyone here. However, all that’s due to the job of our choice we get here and we have no other option to stay near to our dear ones.
I totally agree that “No human being can flourish without the support of the family. It is like “a circle within a circle” situation. Families flourish within close-knit communities. Communities depend on harmonious societies and countries become prosperous doing business as trading blocs. ” But that’s the irony of the modern world, we can’t have everything, these are the sacrifices which we and our parents make to see us successful.
Belated Happy Independence Day Sir! It was very interesting to go through and understand your thought process on the situation that we as a country are facing today. I think in this context PM Modi’s call for an Atmanirbhar Bharat makes perfect sense. This is the only way by which we can decrease our dependency on not just China but other countries as well. We are capable enough to achieve all tht we’ve planned. All it will take is confidence, hardwork and persistence.
Having said that, there’s one more point that I think we as Indians should go back to…which is to the traditional Indian family system. Unfortunately, we have lost our way and have bevome self centered with the primary focus always being… I, ME, MYSELF!! This kimd of westernized system does not suit us n where we come from!! Hence, its high time we realise that and go back to embracing our culture n inculcating those values in our lives. If we succeed in doing that, then I sincerely believe that there’s no stopping us.
Namaste Sir, It is so wonderful to read your inspiring and apt thoughts. It is true, we need to grow in interdependence and thus truly upgrade our independence. Thanks for sharing the precious memories of Dr Kalam, a great soul. May we always follow the selfless path shown by him. May our Country always grow and prosper. China has always been a double-faced and cunning nation that cannot be trusted. May this time India and world teach them a lesson that they deserve. भारतमाता की जय !!! वन्दे मातरम् !!!
An essential and timely self-introspection !! The world is changing fast and we all need to keep pace with it. We as Indians lack the National spirit unlike some countries like Japan where people take collective pride in being to their own Country and therefore the countries progress.
We individually are all too self-centered !! We, unfortunately, will throw the garbage in neighbor’s plot to keep our own clean !! The concept of interdependence has to click in our minds for a nation to progress as nation is after all of us collectively
We leave our country for our own well being (including myself) and contribute to develop other countries. This may be fine but some of us needs to also contribute to our own countries well-being. It is ironic that there are no Indian companies that has the stature of Google, Alibaba etc. Tatas and Infosys etc. have come a long way but needs to push a bit more.
A collective mindset change is required which is a big challenge and I personally do not know what could bring it about. There are a lot of dangers lurking on our nation. And it is high time that we collectively take responsibility.
Looking forward to get your boon and read it.
Dear Tiwariji, All the best for your new book and I am not surprised that it is getting great reviews 🙂
Brilliant article again, I could imagine all those proud moments you had spent with APJ sir. The reference to the UBUNTU concept was so appropriate. Indeed we cannot get better if we do not perfect our interdependent relationships! Good food for thought really 🙂
Arun ji, very well written. Congratulations for the new book “India Wakes”. Very well brought out the importance of regaining sprit of independence by asking the meaning of independence. The emphasis on independence combined with interdependence is very relevant for the next generation. I agree no one can flourish with out the support of family.
Indeed “ubuntu”
“When I is Replaced by We, Illness Becomes Wellness!”
This quote by Malcolm X represents literally what we all must emulate in our lives. Also this philosophy will wipe out the word super-power as everyone believes in “ubuntu” rather than becoming a sucking super power “I”.
Thanks Arunji, for sharing your clarion call to attention & action! There must be what if moments in history that were signaled in time for suitable action to stop them becoming one to be possible and I hope this turns out to be another such aborted what if!
India’s newly assertive, but still short of aggressive (and rightly so), stance is a welcome harbinger of our long overdue ‘independence upgrade’. We have been a ‘defensive democracy’ for three score & thirteen years now and it’s time we shed our reserve & some of the historic burdens you mention. And a ray of hope glimmers too wrt the ‘swarthraj’ birthright presumed by generations of ‘independent India’ politicians before we could arrive at this inflection point.
Interdependence is indeed the key doctrine and ‘ubuntu’ which encompasses so much more & all that makes us human (I just looked it up & it says “ubuntu is said to include the following values: communality, respect, dignity, value, acceptance, sharing, co-responsibility, humaneness, social justice, fairness, personhood, morality, group solidarity, compassion, joy, love, fulfilment, conciliation, etc”) is indeed the mot juste and the ideal to be pursued.
The predatory superpower you mention needs to be shaken out of it’s hubris and well meaning and like thinking folk need to come together to take this tide at the flood to ensure well being & fortune for generations to come at large. Not all our piety and wit will lure back the moving finger once it’s writ and moved on!
“Swaraj” as a “birthright” in 1916, turned out to be “Swarthraj” that sums it all up. India needs to invest in compassionate technology. We need a broader version of nationalism, for excellence in education and technology. Our model of national pride needs reawakening, we indeed need a series of new independences.
Come August 15th and that little patriot in us swells within and prides itself every year around this time. If we believe the sacrifices, battles, the partition, the martyrs and the price we paid was worth it then, what we do with freedom is worth everything. Aren’t we all seeing elected leaders dramatically narrowing their concerns to a blinkered interpretation of the national interest.
No freedom guarantees leaders to break down institutional safeguards and disregard the rights of critics and minorities. Distancing itself from the country’s founding commitment to pluralism and individual rights, our government stages a jarring attack on our country’s character.
The 57th Independence Day will be remembered especially for the President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam’s address to the nation, a call to shun religious, political, language, caste and creed affiliations that always result in dissipation of energy and resources on the non-productive issues. Dr. Kalam said this: ”We will not be remembered for how many churches, mosques or temples our generation added, but only if we give our younger generation a prosperous and safe India resulting out of economic prosperity coupled with our civilizational heritage”.
His words are prescient now, given the times we are living through. It’s true; the country is in a crisis. Of course, we can do better. Is anything better than being a united and corruption-free optimistic nation?
Prof Tiwari, Thank you so much for your timely article on independence upgrade, on the surface it sounds like there is no other time to look into what a Nation is and has than now, academically, economically and defence wise, to usher in a National capacity that can and will service the needs of the people in the Country and surplus mitigate challenges further a field. Of a truth the Sub Continent has come of age, the potential is immense, what she needs is relevant taping without much shouting for the result to prove any critic in leveraging her place on the world stage.
While its true that ‘a large number of brilliant Indians went abroad, and it is not by chance that people of Indian origin are at the helms of giant companies like Microsoft, Google and IBM’ it is a question of time before we start seeing a change of fortunes and roles reversed, all that is required is resilience, for which I am certain the Indian people have more even to spare, the might in the software development skills is a talent to reckon, for which the current global demand is growing so fast that meeting it is a vision to be realized, with artificial intelligence fueling the pace, there is no better time.
So is human life, before any society and or nation by implication, can register significant growth in any sphere, an inward search is a prerequisite, who am I, why am I here, where do I have to be, how to! Negative responses to the questions will create a desire for a solution, homegrown solution that is. The Chinese are where they are today because they proactively decided to fill in their gaps, with knowledge that accompanying technology bring along, studied the market and its forces, their might in numbers and centralized leadership, the rest is history. That “India is increasingly well positioned to replace China as part of the global supply chain, and India is now and likely will continue to be a rapidly growing market.” is accurate, given the freedom and open mindedness that a society has unlike her northern neighbor, this ventilation is a catalyst for sustainable development and change, this only needs to be lived and practiced, we are waiting to see this materialized.
We would not have written enough on the life and deeds of our friend the late President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, he lived long enough to realize, teach and practice by example that none is as important as all of us, and knowledge unshared grows stale, may his lessons live on in all of us who basked in his immense love, wisdom and genuine concern for the underprivileged among us. Yes, we still need each other, and its the only way to move forward, by holding each other’s hand! ubuntu- indeed, “I am, because we are”!
Thank you Sir for sharing this article.Congratulations on the success of your book “India Wakes”. Will surely give it a read.
As you correctly mentioned, it is time to upgrade our Independence.The progress of the country is measured in two terms- Health and Security.Our Govt is making sure that health services are accessible to all irrespective of the social status.Technology is reaching new heights and is capable of making any country self sufficient.
The Govt has started Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, which serves the under poverty line providing free medical services to over 40% of the population.Recently, Modiji also declared that every Indian will have a health ID which will work as that individual’s health account, keeping track of all his medical records and prescriptions. This step will ensure that the COVID-19 vaccine when released will reach even the most remote populations.
This huge step makes me believe that we are reaching new heights of Independence and decreasing the state of dependence on other countries with 3 huge vaccine trials in phase 2 and 3 being conducted in Pune and in the Serum Institute of India.
The concept of “Ubuntu” is very true. We can only be prosperous as an individual if we take our country forward and be independent in the truest sense.
The 74th Independence Day of India was an opportunity for self-introspection and new resolves for our national life. The next ten years are crucial for the world community as a whole and India in particular. Should India strive to be a ‘New China’? Or should it try to imitate western democracies like the USA? In my view, India should take a different developmental journey which is inspired by the Soul of India. There should be a greater emphasis on decentralised and local development.
The Prime Minister’s slogan of being ‘Vocal for Local’ is very appropriate for contemporary India. ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ is also good but it should not be overdone. India has gained a lot from the processes of globalization in the past. I think globalization has the potential to help India in the future as well. It may sound paradoxical, but we Indians should develop capacity to embrace localization as well as globalization simultaneously. Thank you Tiwari Ji for your blog.
Sir, your usage of the word “Upgrade” is thought-provoking. I actually looked up an online dictionary which defined it as — “To change something so that it is of a higher standard.”
Forever, we have celebrated Independence Day mechanically, and also taken our independence for granted. The rich and the powerful have lived in bubbles; the poor have struggled to make two ends meet. Even the social sector has often seemed to be pursuing selfish interests or worse, have an agenda. Very rarely one meets people who think about the country’s progress or about society.
Things are changing, though, as you say right in the beginning of this write-up, as well as in your book. The next steps will be important.
What you have highlighted — interdependence — is indeed crucial to save society. Thank you for pointing it out!
Without realising it, by turning away from families and traditions, we are allowing younger generations to turn unsocial — and worse, anti social, if the widely prevalent toxic influences are also factored in. Instead of being an asset, they will turn out to be a liability, not just to the family but the nation. Society needs intervention urgently, and interestingly, the “upgrade” here will come from reviving some of our old traditions!
At the level of the nation, an Upgrade needs active and informed citizenry. Only then can progressive policies yield results in a sustained manner. Until people are informed, they will continue to fall prey to designs of unsavory and anti-national influences, and oppose change, or be indifferent to it.
We have the wonderful example of P.N. Panicker, who managed to create educated, aware and involved citizens in Kerala through his Library Movement, decades ago. He did it through setting up hundreds of libraries in rural areas, where additionally, discussions on issues were carried out.
Perhaps, we need more people like him to take the initiative in other states, and carry it forward with determination.
A perfect article especially in the context on “Independence Day”. Its really a high time to upgrade our thinking/skills especially the Indian society as every idea has to be delivered “from the society by the society to the society”. Whatever policy Government makes it gets delivered by the society. The new education policy offers lots of potential but the main point is same is our society mature enough to implement this? And I feel that this is the best chance to replicate our ideas into innovations and our innovations into product and ultimately our product for the betterment of society.
We have examples like “ELON MUSK” who has changed the way people should think. Our society must motivates us “to take chances”, “ready for the failure” as I feel that government is doing a lot this time with the policies and now its the time for people who have to work for the implementation of the policies. We belongs to “Young India” and we can make a lot things with our innovations, with our spirit and lastly with our ACTION. So, I hope that when next time our Prime minister give his speech from “RED FORT” on the occasion of independence day the glimpse of “MODERN INDIA-SUPER POWER INDIA” comes from his speech .
Dear Uncle, On this Independence Day, I am sharing ten areas where we need to work further to make India of our dreams –
1. Uniform Civil Code (in a form which is acceptable). Fair, equal and quick justice system for all.
2. Organic and natural farming revolution.
3. Complete transition to renewable sources of energy.
4. Quality and affordable healthcare for all.
5. Ensuring women’s safety.
6. Measures to control population and to keep India’s current religious demographics more or less same.
7. Focus on Made in India, startups, SMEs and new job and business creation for all. Alleviating everyone out of poverty.
8. Quality and affordable education for all. Focus on science, philosophy, spirituality, real life skills, innovation, research and entrepreneurship, Vedas and Upanishads, health, fitness and yoga at education level.
9. Peace, love, harmony and brotherhood among all Indians.
10. Conservation of natural resources.
Sir, Congratulations! “India wakes” is a must-read. A glimpse to it in this blog and elsewhere on the net makes it irresistible. It is worthwhile to wait for a day or two and read it on paper.
The recent past has been troublesome for countries’ economy. Social media poisoning and COVID are adding fuel to the fire. An open letter to Supreme Court by the most erudite historian of our times reflects the state of our present institutions. Hope ” India Wakes” would give us clues to get out of this muck to reason and meaningful prosperity.
Our generation has gone through and overcame hunger and famines through technological innovations and restored twisted institutions during emergency through elections. The present predicament is graver as all this is happening in the backdrop of climate change, a wicked problem.
As a student of sustainability, one fails to understand as to how nations with nuclear warheads can win any war? Furthermore, why should India suffer a cold war between the two countries that have gained wealth & power by polluting the world through their mutual indulgence?
Should not all join and make uncle sam and their vulgar consumerism pay for technological and institutional development of the developing world? We have already shown our grit during the Paris Agreement. How and why should we allow a polluting world power to disown their “climate change” responsibilities? How can politicians be allowed to divert conversations, spread hate and forget about sustainability?
Honourable Prof Tiwari Jee, Marching towards 75 years of independence, it is high time that we relook independence, what we have achieved and what more we need to do. You have discussed several issues and a movement from swarthraj to swaraj. It is true that scientific and technological solutions for indigenous problems are the must and this can be offered by Indian institutions only; we can not wait for outsiders to develop solutions for us. May the steps be small, but should be taken to move forward; this doctrine of Rashtrapita Mahatma Gandhi jee is worth emulating who not only propagated it but practiced as well. It is high time that we look to Rural India and empower it.
Yes Uncle, the Independence of our country needs an upgrade for improving the living conditions of our citizens. As a nation we have scarcity of everything, be it land, water, mountain, forest or anything. The only thing we have in abundance is ‘ people’. If we leave this population unskilled or uneducated, there’s nothing but disaster ahead. However, if we transform this population into a focused , skilled, inspired and capable population we’ll witness miracle ahead. India definitely has the capability to upgrade herself through the power of knowledge to guide the world towards wellbeing.
Having said this, the knowledge shouldn’t merely be constrained to bookish knowledge, it goes beyond that – by becoming wise . By leaving back all the illogical orthodox notions and rules that have been enforced on this generation by the older ones and rather moving ahead with time. The best example been set by our PM when he spoke about sanitary napkins – a taboo from the ramparts of Red Fort.
Let’s progress. Let’s upgrade.
Dear Sir, Wishing you a very happy 74th Independence Day. A very apt subject -Time to upgrade our Independence.” These are pandemic times, hopefully when we have some light at the end of Tunnel in near future, we will have better picture of things to come and happen.
As always you are concerned about India and its people. You have analysised so many issues the country is facing today. You are also suggesting solutions by giving a road map which India could follow to come out of recession and make the Year 2021, of India, as PM also said in his Independence speech. PM also gave a road map on all major issues of stronger country by outlining many policy changes like new definition of a neighbor. It is bound to make our immediate neighbors very uncomfortable. I saw PM for the first time thumping the table and saying, We have to becoming Self Reliant. I could sense the same intensity in PM’s words, very similar to what Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilk said in 1916- ” SWARAJ HAMARA JANM SIDDH ADHIKAR HAI” as quoted by you.
You have rightly brought out that this year Independence was celebrated under the shadow of Pandemic. Coronavirus. You have brought out what are the good things happening around this time. Laying of Foundation Stone of “RAM MANDIR in AYODHYA” on 05 Aug 2020 by PM is a historic moment and will remain etched in our memory for rest of our lives. Maryada Purushotam Ram lives in the soul of every Indian and therefore will always remain an ultimate idol and India’s MARG DARSHAK. Every Indian will always strive hard to achieve the ideals of LORD SHRI RAM.
You rightly consider the new education policy with reforms as the new pathway for our young minds to take India to the new heights and put country at its rightful place it deserves, at the world forum.
When you talk of Rafale flying into Indian space, Induction of LCA and SU in IAF, C 130 carrying the mortal remains of true patriot Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, I felt, I am re-living my Air Force days. I have in some way or other been, associated with induction of all these new state of art Aerospace weapon platforms.
You have very modestly spoken about your latest book, India Wakes. It’s a great work by you and your co Author Mr BART STEVEN FISHER from WASHINGTON. The book has rightly been called the democratic book. The ist Chapter of the book, “Botched up Independence” has out lined three points. 1. Hostile neighborhood, 2. Economic stagnation and 3. delay in weaponisation of Indian Military. I must say that this Govt is working on all three points with an urgency. For first point, PM says that neighbors are those with whom our hearts meet. For second point, the Govt has drawn strategic plans how to make India “ATAM NIRBHAR” and working on these earnestly. For the third point, the PM believes in the teachings of LORD RAMA – ” BHAY BINU HOT N PREET” and therefore, to maintain peace in the reason, Indian Armed Forces have to be made strong by supporting them with acquisition of latest weapon Systems.
Another very important aspect you have brought out is that of Brain Drain from India for over 70 years. I personally feel that the idea of starting IITs, IIMs and other scientific institutions and laboratories like CSIR was very noble. The Science and Technology initiatives in Atomic energy and space research were also excellent and these were handled by two capable people in Dr Homi Jahangir Bhabha and Dr SaraBhai. The continuous brain drain from our IITs and IIMs over the decades led to poor comprehension of contemporary technology by these institutions. This basically resulted in absorption of average brains in science and technology arenas. That is the reason DRDO and DPSUs including OFBs failed to innovate and research new technologies. At best these organisations have remained in understanding the design, development and copy pasting the manufacturing processes. Another Area of IT industry is being motivated by the Govt to come forward and develop new cyber security and data analytics policy.
According to principle of dependent arising, a key doctrine of Buddhist philosophy – if this exists, that exists, if this ceases to exist, that also ceases to exist is very apt and timely under these circumstances. Stephen Covey wrote in his famous book “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”, “You cannot continuously improve until you progressively perfect interdependent relationships.” The fact that stares upon us is that while independence without interdependence leaves us isolated, interdependence without independence leaves us vulnerable. These are marvelous quotes given by you to emphasize the value of living with interdependence.
You have finally summarized the blog by emphasizing the above points by advocating the value of family system which seems to be eroding day by day in India. Finally you talk of UBANTU effect – I am because we are ! The spirit of interdependence is most important and can not be emphasized more.
Happy Independence Day Sir. Its a thought provoking post.“India Wakes” is really one of the best book I have ever come across. There is no doubt that it is “the most democratic book published in years.”
This write-up comprehensively and beautifully sums up the past and the present as far as India is concerned. The past is past and nothing can be done about it except learning lessons from it. This is one area which we have been ignoring so far.
With various dangers lurking around our boarders, socio-religious issues propping up time and again, majority community feeling marginalised, economic scenario wavering back and forth etc. etc. does require a revisit to critically evaluate our nationhood and set a well thought out road map for the future so our country could play its rightful role among the world community.
Today’s Independence Day speech by Prime Minister Modi was very reassuring, at least to me.
This American wishes India a very happy Independence Day. This is India’s moment.
China, since its accession to the WTO in 2001, was the play for the short-term. India, due to its democracy, rule of law, and fantastic brainpower, is the play for the long term. U.S. companies will increasingly relocate supply chains from China to other locations, including Mexico, Vietnam, and Taiwan. Why not India? And if not now, when?
I agree with the co-author of our book “India Wakes,” that this is the moment for India to replace China in the supply chains of the major U.S. multinational enterprises, a trend that is already under way. India is the new China.
Dear Sir, Very timely and apt blog on the Independence Day. Though it is waste of time to talk about what could have been done in those 65-70 years but it is worth looking back and reflecting back on those lost years. While accepting that there were many important problems to attend to but at the same time drinking water and sanitation cannot be relegated to such low level that after 7 decades some body has to talk about Har ghar jal and Swatch Bharat mission from Red Fort.
As you rightly brought out we definitely relook at our independence and see what is ahead of us.
If we could achieve atmanirbhar status in Space and Nuclear technology we could have definitely got self sufficiency in Defense and other chosen fields. It required the will of the Government. Successive Governments never put curb on Defense and other imports. They played into hands of the people who created non existent urgency and allowed them to import. Very methodically and purposefully made PSUs defunct. If BARC and ISRO scientists can do it and I am sure Defense Scientists and PSUs also can do it. Needless to say that they are also Indians like space and Nuclear scientists. Better late than never, this word Atmanirbhar got rejuvenated. We can do it sir. Let there be clear cut direction, carrot and stick. It will work definitely.
India today counted the important words which PM used during his address to the nation. PM used Atmanirbhar word 32 times and Defense more than 15 times. This shows the mood of the GOVT and intent of PM.
It is the adversity which brings out best in the people. Case in point is the ventilator made by BEL and PPE kit and masks made by textiles ministry . They are best and cheapest . Have faith in people , give them the support, authority and responsibility. They will deliver. Make it compulsory for the people of India to use. Especially Defense forces.
If you analyse Indian Navy has the content of indigenously developed systems with them. Because they believe strongly in indigenisation. Not that they are at lesser threat. They strongly believe that we can achieve self sufficiency with this kind of sustained effort. Your blog is very timely and constant encouragement for every effort made towards atmanirbhar Bharat has to be appreciated and we can do it.
Happy Independence Day Sri Arunji..
Truly the time for upgrade is now. The nation is set for good big leap. We have already started seeing glimpses of it through India standing strong against China, Atmanirbhar Bharat taking center stage, Make in India transforming to Make for the World, Vocal for Local, Ram Janmabhoomi construction, CAA & Removal of Article 370 seeing light of the day, New Education Policy rollout and more..
These are great positive signs.
But, eventually all needs to translate into good healthy and happy life for the bottom line for true sustenance of all forms of growth. When the majority of the population irrespective of what strata, caste, class, language, region they belong to; get connected with the nationalistic ideals and toil hard for both self sustenance & nation’s growth, Samarth & Saksham Bharat can soon be reality.
Today the Prime minister said in his speech “Neighbours are not those with whom we share boundaries, they are the one with whom we share hearts”, he was obviously telling China about the emerging U.S.- India partnership.
Dear sir, Its great that we have really a good PM at present who is working towards the vision of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, but at the same time it’s true that many people are against him and they don’t behave like a citizen of India, they don’t believe in what you have quoted on your Facebook post today, as mentioned below,
मित्राणि धन धान्यानि प्रजानां सम्मतानिव ।
जननी जन्म भूमिश्च स्वर्गादपि गरीयसी ॥
“मित्र, धन्य, धान्य आदि का संसार में बहुत अधिक सम्मान है। (किन्तु) माता और मातृभूमि का स्थान स्वर्ग से भी ऊपर है।”
Happy Independence Day!
भारत माता की जय!
They have problems in saying each and every word quoted by you. It’s a big challenge for the nation and need to be handled with care and new strategy. Hope everything will be fine, Regards
A Though provoking writeup. Last few months of the epidemic has definitely been tough on the economy and the governement. On one hand we have China border issues on the other hand we need to be self reliant which the government is so rightly pushing for (Atmanirbhar Bharat). We have a long way to go in building Billion dollar global firms, but i believe we are on the right track.
New reforms are coming in for businesses to build locally, new agricultural reforms ro support our farmers, but most importantly i look forward to the New Education Policy. It has the full potential to refoem our next gen by making them focus on How to solve – more problem thinking. It will help if we as parents also lend their support to an more open thinking towards our children’s learnings rather than focussong on making them engineers and doctors in a rate race.
Still a long way to go since our kkds in rural India need the right education support. Online learning is fantastic in Tier1/2/3 cities, but needs more government support for lesser priviliged kids. I look forward to be a part of this path for new India.
On an ending Note, we need more Business Leaders like Ambanis, Tatas and Mahindras and they will come from the current and next gen with mentorrhip support from wise men like yourself. Fantastic article as always. Om Namo Namaha.
Sir, Prime Minister Narendra Modiji indeed called for the upgrade by making “Atmanirbhar Bharat” the new “mantra” for everyone today from the Red Fort. He rightly pushed for raising India’s share in the global economy. For how long will India keep exporting raw materials and import finished products? The PM wondered.
I personally liked the PM’s decision that every Indian will have a health ID. This will revolutionise the Indian health sector as the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) will ensure seamless healthcare services through the health card. The coronavirus has exposed the hypocrisy of private hospitals who have emerged as basically money-making machines that also provide healthcare as five star hotels serve lunch and dinners.