Shows
All Things PolicyBengaluru's Yellow Metro Line Through Geopolitical TracksOn 10 August 2025, after a long delay, the yellow metro line was finally inaugurated by PM Modi in Bengaluru. But just a month after the inauguration, long wait times, overcrowding and underutilisation of potential continue to plague the nearly 19 km line that connects RV Road with Bommasandra. The reason? Geopolitics, because of the involvement of a Chinese supplier of rolling stock.In this episode of All Things Policy, Lokendra sits down with Tannmay Kumarr Baid, a junior adjunct scholar with Takshashila, who has examined the geopolitical angle of the yellow metro line in a recently published discussion document co-authored...
2025-09-2344 min
All Things PolicyIndia Navigates The 'Impossible Trinity' of DiplomacyAs negotiations with Beijing continue, relations with Moscow strengthen, and contentions with Washington become evident, New Delhi finds itself navigating the 'impossible trinity' of its diplomacy. I.e., it cannot maximise one relationship in this superpower triad without creating concerns in at least one of the other two ties. Hence, delicately balancing relations with China, the US, and Russia arguably presents the most important foreign policy question for India in contemporary geopolitics. Amit Kumar argues this, in conversation with Anushka Saxena, in this latest video episode of Takshashila's daily public policy podcast, 'All Things Policy'. If you...
2025-09-0136 min
All Things PolicyTackling Oil Spills in India's Coastal WatersOn May 25, Liberia-flagged MSC Elsa 3 sank around 15 nautical miles off the coast of Kerala. Only a few days later, a Singapore-flagged MV Wan Hai 503 caught fire off the coast of Kerala. Two such incidents around India's coastal waters are not a rare phenomenon. There have been multiple such incidents in the seas and oceans surrounding India’s long coastline, posing various risks to marine life as well as to coastal communities. Notwithstanding the multiple agencies, such as the Indian Coast Guard and the Indian Navy, that spring into action following such incidents, is India doing enough to tackle oil sp...
2025-08-2636 min
All Things PolicyTibet Autonomous Region: China’s Solar StrongholdIn this episode of All Things Policy, Dr. Y. Nithyanandam and Swati Kalyani from the Geospatial Research Team at the Takshashila Institution delve into the rapid expansion of solar energy infrastructure in the Tibet Autonomous Region. They discuss how the solar projects serve both civilian and strategic purposes, help China move towards its 2060 carbon neutrality goal, and support the country’s renewable energy plans. The conversation also touches upon the possible implications for India, given Tibet’s unique geographic and strategic position.Tune in to understand the energy–strategy nexus at play in the Himalayas. For more detail...
2025-07-1523 min
All Things PolicyWhy Did IMF Bail Out Pakistan?In this episode of All Things Policy, Anwesha Sen and Anisree Suresh examine Pakistan's economic history with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and deconstruct why it never sparked a reform moment. They also unpack Pakistan’s political economy - its policies, weaknesses and potential. They also unpack Pakistan's political economy, exploring the interplay between its policies, inherent weaknesses, and potential. 'Introduction to Geospatial Science & Technology' - Join our 4-weekend expert capsule course starting June 14, designed to give you a solid foundation in geospatial science and technology— without disrupting your weekdays. Learn from top-notch experts cove...
2025-06-1326 min
All Things PolicyIndia's Cyber Defences and Operation SindoorIn today’s episode of All Things Policy, Adya Madhavan speaks with Karthik Bappanad and Lokendra Sharma about India’s cyber defence capabilities. Karthik and Lokendra situate Operation Sindoor within the wider landscape of cyber defences. They look at successful models such as RBI’s ReBIT, and areas that require further capacity building. Lokendra and Karthik also shed light on some of the challenges India faces and the different kinds of cyber attacks that can cause harm to critical infrastructure.'Introduction to Geospatial Science & Technology' - Join our 4-weekend expert capsule course starting June 14, design...
2025-06-1234 min
All Things PolicyIndia and the Age of Autonomous WarIn this episode of All Things Policy, Shobhankita Reddy is in conversation with Adya Madhavan on her paper, "Revisiting Arms Control Paradigms in the Age of LAWS."They tackle the global debate over 'killer robots,' exploring the ethical and accountability dilemmas that arise when machines make lethal decisions. Adya breaks down why countries are so divided on governance; many advocate for a legally binding treaty, while major AI powers like the US and China resist strict limitations, all while pursuing the technology. The discussion focuses on India's strategic considerations, especially with China’s advancements in military AI...
2025-06-1127 min
All Things PolicyStrengthening the Rule of Law: Role of the Finance CommissionIn this episode of All Things Policy, Kripa Koshy (Programme Manager, Takshashila Institution) speaks to Surya Prakash (Programme Director and Fellow, DAKSH) and Rohith (Data Analyst, DAKSH) about the role of the Finance Commission in strengthening judicial reform. They discuss the budgeting process and the allocation of funds to the judiciary, and examine how fiscal decisions impact the functioning of India’s judicial system.'Introduction to Geospatial Science & Technology' - Join our 4-weekend expert capsule course starting June 14, designed to give you a solid foundation in geospatial science and technology— without disrupting your weekdays. Lear...
2025-06-1043 min
All Things PolicyFor India's Tech Future: Scientific Investments We Can't IgnoreIn an era prioritising rapid technological output, this episode explores a crucial counterbalance: the need for deep investment in fundamental science. There is a symbiotic relationship between science and technology, which brings with it societal values and thinking. Join Shambhavi Naik and Ashwin Prasad as they discuss why a robust scientific foundation is indispensable for India's aspirations. Further Reading: https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/opinion/technology-may-shine-but-it-is-science-that-will-fuel-india-s-rise-13053098.html 'Introduction to Geospatial Science & Technology' - Join our 4-weekend expert capsule course starting June 14, designed to give you a solid foundation in geospatial science and...
2025-06-0933 min
All Things PolicyMedia Matters: You Are What You ConsumeIn this episode of All Things Policy, Manoj Kewalramani and Astha Rastogi unpack the shifting dynamics of media consumption — from the rise of emotional content and algorithmic curation to the erosion of trust in traditional news. Together, they explore what it means to engage meaningfully with media in an age of noise, distraction, and disinformation. 'Introduction to Geospatial Science & Technology' - Join our 4-weekend expert capsule course starting June 14, designed to give you a solid foundation in geospatial science and technology— without disrupting your weekdays. Learn from top-notch experts covering critical topics and discover how...
2025-06-0638 min
All Things PolicyRethinking India's Nuclear Liability RegimeAfter a lull of many years, there’s so much happening in India’s nuclear energy sector this year. On 1 Feb 2025, when Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the first full budget of Modi 3.0, she made a major policy announcement related to nuclear energy: the intention to amend the liability law, also referred to as CLNDA in short. But what is this law about, why is it being amended? Would this amendment serve as a silver bullet for the Indian nuclear industry that has been stagnating for a long time now? In this episode of All Things Policy, Lokendra Sharma, a re...
2025-06-0544 min
All Things PolicyA Geospatial Lens on Bengaluru's FloodsUrban floods in cities like Bangalore are becoming more frequent and disruptive. In this episode of All Things Policy, Avinash Shet and Dr Y. Nithiyanandam, a professor and the head of the Geospatial Program at the Takshashila Institution, explore how geospatial technologies—maps, sensors, and AI—can aid in planning, mitigation, and sustainable flood management.'Introduction to Geospatial Science & Technology' - Join our 4-weekend expert capsule course starting June 14, designed to give you a solid foundation in geospatial science and technology— without disrupting your weekdays. Learn from top-notch experts covering critical topics and discover how ge...
2025-06-0436 min
All Things PolicyHow can India Engineer the Next-Gen Fighter?India's defence ecosystem needs a refined approach to fighting the next generation of battle, and that needs a vision for developing next-gen jet engines. In this episode of All Things Policy, Avinash Shet and Anushka Saxena discuss India's fighter jet engine ecosystem and the challenges facing the LCA Tejas and Kaveri engine programmes. Avinash also sheds light on how to approach co-production partners in the US, South Korea, and Japan, and why the government needs a holistic strategy to leverage the Indian private sector's jet engine innovation and component production capabilities.'Introduction to Geospatial...
2025-06-0339 min
All Things PolicyWhat the Repeal of the AI Diffusion Framework Means for India and the WorldThe AI diffusion framework was repealed by the Trump administration shortly before it was to come into force on 15 May 2025. In this episode of All Things Policy Rijesh Panicker, Ashwin Prasad and Bharath Reddy unpack what this means for India and the world.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get a well-rounded learning experience. The curriculum is delivered online, punctuated with in-person workshops...
2025-06-0244 min
All Things PolicyChina's Vision for National Security, CodifiedIn this episode of All Things Policy, Manoj Kewalramani and Anushka Saxena discuss the codification of China's security view and policy in its latest White Paper on National Security in the New Era. They analyse the key takeaways of the paper, including China's red lines, approach to the Asian regional order, and tensions with the West.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get...
2025-05-3032 min
All Things PolicyBeyond the Gated Walls: Bengaluru’s Samaj, Sarkar & BazarEvery painted wall, pothole & traffic in Bengaluru has a story to tell. In this episode of All Things Policy, Pravar Choudhary of Bengawalks and I, Sowmya Prabhakar, COO of Takshashila Institution, take a stroll exploring the dynamics of the markets, society & government. From gated communities to badly designed footpaths, from heritage buildings to street art, we explore Bengaluru's soul.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules...
2025-05-2948 min
All Things PolicyForging the Future of India’s AirpowerWe have much to be heartened about India’s air power capabilities in the recent India-Pak military escalations. However, this is not a time for complacency, and many challenges lie ahead. In this episode of All Things Policy, Shobhankita Reddy sits down with Aditya Ramanathan, Research Fellow with the Takshashila Institution, to unpack and understand the critical steps needed for future preparedness. Link to Aditya’s recent article - https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/blogs/toi-edit-page/two-analyses-on-weapons-systems-strategic-affairs-after-the-pause-in-conflict/The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the...
2025-05-2834 min
All Things PolicyPost-Sindoor: India’s Path to Defence InnovationIn this episode of All Things Policy, Prof. Y. Nithiyanandam speaks with Cmde (Dr) Arun Pratap Golaya about the significance of Operation Sindoor and what it reveals about India’s indigenous defence ecosystem. They reflect on the opportunities it presents, the structural challenges startups face, and the need to bridge the gap between research, innovation, and operational deployment. From navigating policy bottlenecks to balancing indigenisation with strategic international collaboration, this conversation explores what it takes to build a resilient and future-ready defence innovation landscape in India. Tune in as they examine the lessons from Sindooor and ask: What could a truly s...
2025-05-2740 min
All Things PolicyAssessing the Chinese perspective on the recent India-Pakistan escalationsHow have Chinese analysts and citizen commentators responded to the April 22 terror attack on civilians in Pahalgam, Kashmir, and the subsequent military escalations between India and Pakistan? Given that China is an interested party, a regional power, Pakistan's ally and a threat actor for India, understanding Chinese discourse on these events is crucial. In this episode of All Things Policy, Shobhankita Reddy sits down with Anushka Saxena, Staff Research Analyst at the Takshashila Institution’s China Desk, to discuss Anushka’s latest issue brief examining Chinese rhetoric and perspectives on the recent crisis.Link to the full docu...
2025-05-2646 min
All Things PolicyDecoding Operation SindoorIn this episode of All Things Policy, Aishwaria Sonavane and Shobhankita Reddy unpack Operation Sindoor and examine how India’s response to cross-border terrorism by Pakistan-based outfits has shifted from restraint to assertive retaliation, marked by deep strikes, drone warfare, and public red lines. They discuss the strategic risks of this new posture, evolving military doctrines, and how both countries are rethinking procurement and operational planning. The podcast also explores the diplomatic freeze, the weaponisation of water and trade ties, and why third-party mediation remains a flashpoint in India-Pakistan relations.Read more: https://pakistanpaigham.substack.com/...
2025-05-2325 min
All Things PolicyIndia-EU: Building the Next ChapterIn this episode of All Things Policy, Vanshika Saraf is joined by Dr. Garima Mohan, Senior Fellow at the German Marshall Fund’s Indo-Pacific Program, to unravel the dynamics of India–EU ties at a time of deep geopolitical churn. They explore the state of the long-delayed India–EU FTA, Europe’s recalibration amid the Ukraine war and shifting transatlantic equations. From Germany’s leadership transition to Jaishankar’s “partners, not preachers” remark, this conversation dives into how trust, trade, and technology are shaping the future of this partnership. Tune in to hear what’s driving convergence and where the gaps remain.
2025-05-2231 min
All Things PolicyThe Significance of India's Coastline DelineationIndia recently reported a major increase in its coastline. From 7516 Km in 1970, the length now stands at 11098 Km. The accurate measurement is essential for various aspects, including maritime security and credibility in maritime disputes. In this episode of All Things Policy, Swathi Kalyani, Research Analyst with the Geospatial Programme at the Takshashila Institution, sits with Vice Admiral S K Jha (Retd.), former Chief Hydrographer of India, to discuss the objective of re-evaluation of coastline, its advantages and how this affects the establishment of maritime jurisdictions. The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored...
2025-05-2128 min
All Things PolicyUnderstanding the India-UK FTAIndia and the UK concluded an FTA after close to 3.5 years of negotiations. In this episode of All Things Policy, Suman Joshi talks to Shikha Tomar and Anisree Suresh to understand what it means for both countries. The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get a well-rounded learning experience. The curriculum is delivered online, punctuated with in-person workshops across India.https://school.takshashila.org.in/pgpAll Things Policy is a d...
2025-05-2029 min
All Things PolicySky Sentinels: New Frontiers of Drone WarfareJoin Colonel Vikrant Shinde and Arindam Goswami in this episode of All Things Policy, where we dive into one of the most transformative developments in modern warfare and aviation: the rise of unmanned aerial systems. Vikrant, a Research Fellow at Takshashila, is working on a research paper on this very subject, which will be out very soon.From their military origins to today's complex commercial ecosystem, drones have revolutionised our airspace - particularly what experts call the "Air Littoral," that critical zone below 10,000 feet where traditional aircrafts now share space with everything from delivery drones to weaponised...
2025-05-1954 min
All Things PolicyWhen AI Gets Too Smart: Pull the Plug (Or Sabotage First)?In this episode of All Things Policy, Rijesh Panicker, Bharath Reddy, and Ashwin Prasad discuss the strategic future of humanity with AI, based on the Superintelligence strategy paper. What will the future with AI look like? When might AI achieve critically dangerous capabilities? If one country's AI project threatens global stability, should rivals consider sabotage as a deterrent? How to preserve ultimate human oversight and security? The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers...
2025-05-1647 min
All Things PolicyIndia's Overcrowded and Overburdened Prison SystemThis episode will take a closer look at India’s mechanism to release prisoners, particularly in light of the reality of prison overcrowding and the significant number of people in jail awaiting completion of their trials. According to a Supreme Court estimate, India has over 5.7 lakh prisoners confined in various jails across the country, of which 76% were reported as undertrial prisoners (as of December 2022). In this context, Kripa Koshy (Programme Manager, Takshashila) is joined by Shreehari Paliath (Senior Policy Analyst and Researcher, IndiaSpend) and Leah Verghese (Research Manager, Daksh) as they unpack the challenges around Undertrial Review Co...
2025-05-1542 min
All Things PolicyPretty Art, Ugly Footprint: Building Sustainable AIIn today's episode of "All Things Policy," Adya Madhavan and Anwesha Sen delve into the escalating energy demands of Artificial Intelligence. They discuss how the rapid growth of AI, exemplified by tools like ChatGPT, comes with a significant and often overlooked environmental cost due to the immense electricity consumption of data centers. The conversation highlights concerns about the sustainability of this trend, with projections suggesting data centers could use 10% of the world's electricity by 2030. While India currently has sufficient capacity for its AI needs, proactive planning for future energy demands is crucial. The episode explores potential sustainable solutions, specifically...
2025-05-1425 min
All Things PolicyPublishing in IndiaWhy is it a task to get research and books funded and published? From acquiring agents, preparing manuscripts, approaching publishers and finally marketing the written word. In this episode of All Things Policy, Leah Govias and Kavitha Rao, the writer and journalist and the author of 'Spies, Lies and Allies: The Extraordinary Lives of Chatto and Roy, discuss the process of funding and publishing books and research. The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course...
2025-05-1331 min
All Things PolicyIndia–US Trade in the Trump 2.0 EraDonald Trump's second term as the United States president started on January 20, 2025. India-US trade relations have been in a phase of heightened negotiations and readjustments ever since. In this episode of All Things Policy, Anupam Manur and Sarthak Pradhan talk about various trade-related developments that have dominated the news cycle and discuss the potential contours of a future India-US trade agreement.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range...
2025-05-1250 min
All Things PolicyOperation Sindoor: Rethinking India’s Military Doctrine Against PakistanIn this episode of All Things Policy, Aishwaria Sonavane speaks with Dr. Happymon Jacob about Operation Sindoor and its implications for India’s evolving military doctrine against Pakistan. They unpack how the Pahalgam attack has catalysed a strategic shift in India’s response to terrorism, the blurring of conventional and subconventional warfare, and what this means for deterrence, diplomacy, and the future of India-Pakistan relations.Check out this X thread for more: https://t.co/F3zPTQrH6IThe PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aimi...
2025-05-0931 min
All Things PolicyEvolution of Mediation in IndiaIn this episode of All Things Policy, Astha Rastogi, Programme Manager for Defence and Foreign Affairs, in conversation with Yamini J Kumar, who is the Assistant Programme Manager for Law Enforcement & Policing Fellowship, talks about the evolution of mediation, its challenges in India and suggested policies that could be implemented. From a court-referred mechanism to a recognised alternative dispute resolution tool, they explore how mediation is still a strange concept to people and how there is less accessibility because of the stigma around it.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to...
2025-05-0822 min
All Things PolicyWho Tells Your Phone the Time?Your phone needs the right time, but so do robotic vacuum cleaners, drones, and countless other autonomous machines. So, who tells them all? Listen as Avinash Shet and Ashwin Prasad discuss the fascinating technology of timing satellites and their crucial, often invisible, role in synchronising our modern world.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get a well-rounded learning experience. The curriculum is delivered online, punctuated with...
2025-05-0735 min
All Things PolicyFiscally Federal or Flailing? The Case of China's Local Government FinancesWith the ensuing trade and tariff war between China and the US, external economic hostility is mounting onto Beijing's ongoing economic woes. The major stakeholders responsible for powering China through this tumultuous economic period are China's local governments. In this episode of 'All Things Policy', Amit Kumar discusses with Anushka Saxena how China's local government financing model works, what its challenges are, and what policy measures are being experimented with to deal with the double whammy of falling revenues and expanding expenditure mandates. Amit also sheds light on how local governments have leveraged LGFVs and special purpose bonds over...
2025-05-0639 min
All Things PolicyIndia’s Science & Tech Journey: Past Lessons, Future DirectionsIn this episode of All Things Policy, Avinash Shet is joined by Aakash Kumar to trace the evolution of India’s science and technology ecosystem. The episode explores how India’s scientific foundations were laid post-independence under Nehru’s vision of state-led development, discusses the enduring legacy of colonialism, and assesses today’s challenges, including low R&D spending and the deep tech gap with countries like China. With historical context and policy insights, the episode urges a rethink of India’s S&T priorities to remain globally competitive.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybr...
2025-05-0547 min
All Things PolicyMaritime Power in China's Grand StrategyIn this episode, Dr Y. Nithiyanandam, Professor at the Takshashila Institution, engages in an insightful discussion with Vice Admiral Anil Kumar Chawla (Retd) on the themes explored in his recent book, "Maritime Power and China’s Grand Strategy". Together, they examine China’s growing maritime ambitions—from its naval expansion and the “String of Pearls” to grey zone tactics and the Belt and Road Initiative. Drawing on Admiral Chawla’s distinguished naval experience, the conversation delves into why maritime power is central to China’s ascent and the implications for India’s strategic outlook. An essential listen for students, professionals, a...
2025-05-0246 min
All Things PolicyTrump's Tariff Pause and Implications for IndiaTrump's tariffs have been the talk of the geoeconomics town for the past few weeks. Most recently, he announced a 90 day pause on his own tariffs. What does this pause mean for the world and India? Are there any opportunities that India can catch onto amidst all the confusion that surrounds this tariff regime? Tannmay Kumarr Baid sits down with Anupam Manur and Anisree Suresh to discuss Trump's tariffs, the pause, and its implications for India and the rest of the world. The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to...
2025-04-3031 min
All Things PolicyAryabhata at 50: The Satellite That Launched a Space NationFifty years ago, a modest satellite named Aryabhata marked India's bold entry into space. In this episode of All Things Policy, ShreeKeerthi, Research Analyst and Prof. Dr. Y Nithiyanadam of the Geospatial Programme at Takshashila Institution, trace Aryabhata's journey from its creation in Bangalore to its launch from the Soviet Union during the geopolitics of the 1970s. They examine the scientific hopes it inspired and the lasting legacy it created for subsequent missions like INSAT, IRS, Chandrayaan, and Mangalyaan.On the 50th Anniversary of Aryabhata's launch, they talk about the fascinating stories behind its name, explore the...
2025-04-2930 min
All Things PolicyInternet in the Space AgeIn this episode of All Things Policy, Ashwin Prasad and Aishwaria Sonavane discuss satellite internet. We live in a hyper-connected world, and satellite internet mega constellations are the next leap. Thousands of Low-Earth Orbit satellites are working together to beam internet globally, representing a massive infrastructure and space tech innovation. This technology holds immense potential for military strategy and economic growth, but its dual-use nature also presents security and regulatory challenges that demand our attention.To understand the power and implications of satellite internet – whether for use, investment, or governance – it's crucial to grasp its fundamentals. My latest paper, the...
2025-04-2837 min
All Things PolicyMaps: The New Mirrors to Our SocietyMaps don't just guide us; they help in decision-making. From our food apps to how well we are prepared for disaster management, location is our new currency. In this episode, Y. Nithiyanandam & Sowmya Nandan from Takshashila talk about how geospatial work impacts our markets, governance and our everyday lives. Location isn’t just a pin—it’s power.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get a well-r...
2025-04-2540 min
All Things PolicyRethinking Migration: Myths, Policies, and Global RealitiesIn this episode of All Things Policy, Aishwaria Sonavane sits down with Danish Zahoor to disentangle some of the myths surrounding global migration. The conversation explores the growing backlash against migration in developed countries, tracing its roots to globalisation and examining the potential consequences for global economic integration. It also delves into the so-called "dark side" of migration, including exploitation, inequality, and brain drain, offering thoughtful insights on how these challenges can be addressed without reinforcing xenophobic narratives.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into...
2025-04-2423 min
All Things PolicyDecoding India's Labour CodesIn 2019-2020, Parliament passed four labour codes which merged twenty-nine existing labour laws into four broad categories intended to ensure, inter alia, universalisation of wages and social security, ensuring a safe and healthy workplace and formalisation of employment. With the Union government announcing its intention for the implementation of these codes to begin across states by April 1, 2025, what are some of the hurdles that informal workers may face with these new codes? Join Kripa Koshy (Programme Manager, Takshashila) and Pankil Goswami (PhD candidate, McGill University, School of Social Work) as they unpack the implementation struggles, the case for welfare b...
2025-04-2336 min
All Things PolicyRipple and Rules: Rethinking the Indus Water TreatyThe Indus Treaty has been called as one of the world's most enduring water sharing agreements, but is that so? In this episode of All Things Policy, Swathi Kalyani, Research Analyst with the Geospatial Programme at the Takshashila Institution and Arpan A Chakravarty, Research Fellow at the India Foundation, explore the origins of IWT in the aftermath of partition, the role played by World Bank, how it has shaped regional water diplomacy and finally reflect on whether the treaty still serves India's interests today, along with what potential reforms could take place in this evolving subcontinental landscape.
2025-04-2226 min
All Things PolicySocial Cost of AI-Generated ArtOpenAI released GPT-4o, which included art generation, particularly Studio Ghibli-style anime recreation of users’ pictures. This update took the internet by storm, and social media platforms were flooded with people recreating their images in Studio Ghibli-style. Parallely, conversations around the integrity of art/artwork, copyright, intellectual property rights, and protecting the livelihood of artists were highlighted. In this episode of All Things Policy, Astha Rastogi and Anwesha Sen attempt to dissect this. The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of...
2025-04-2126 min
All Things PolicyThe Science and Ethics of De-ExtinctionRecently, a Dallas-based biotech company, Colossal Biosciences, announced that it has been able to resurrect a species of wolf that went extinct around 12,500 years ago. It claims these dire wolves are the “world’s first successfully de-extincted animals.” What does this mean for science, ecosystems, and society? In this conversation with Sarthak Pradhan, Shambhavi Naik shares her insights on the methods used by Colossal, the potential consequences of this breakthrough, the ethical concerns it raises and its implications for policymakers around the world.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming...
2025-04-1735 min
All Things PolicyThe Black Sea Deal: A Quick Fix or a Stable Solution?The recent talks between Russia and the US discussed reviving a maritime security arrangement in the Black Sea. This has been widely touted as a step in the right direction towards ceasing hostilities between Russian and Ukraine. In this episode of All Things Policy, Adya Madhavan and Anushka Saxena explore whether this is really the case, and discuss the promises and shortcomings of the potential agreement and explore what it could mean for the broader conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve...
2025-04-1631 min
All Things PolicySignals from the Signal Chat LeakOn 24 March 2024, The Atlantic's editor published a story that broke the internet. He revealed being accidentally added to a Signal chat group called 'Houthi PC small group' in which the who's who of senior US national security leadership discussed striking the Houthis in Yemen. After the White House tried to downplay the issue, The Atlantic published another story, this time revealing more details about the bombing timeline.In this episode of All Things Policy, Lokendra Sharma sits down with Manoj Kewalramani and Tannmay Kumarr Baid from the Takshashila Institution to unpack the issue, discuss the highlights from the...
2025-04-1545 min
All Things PolicyInside the Lok Sabha: Who Really Cares About Foreign Policy?Dr. Walter C. Ladwig III, senior lecturer at King’s College London, sits down with Vanshika Saraf and Tanmay Kumarr Baid to unpack the surprising findings of his latest research on India’s legislative behavior in the realm of foreign security. Drawing on a unique dataset of over 10,000 parliamentary questions from 2004 to 2019, Dr. Ladwig challenges the notion that Indian MPs are disengaged from defense and external affairs.Why do some members of Parliament prioritise foreign policy despite its perceived low electoral salience? What can written questions tell us about democratic oversight in the world's largest democracy? And what...
2025-04-1436 min
All Things PolicyHow Should India Navigate Tech Geopolitics?The last few years have been defined by an increased contestation between the US and China that increasingly spills into technological domains such as AI, semiconductors or even space. In addition to this tech warfare, developing countries are concerned about the security of their supply chains — especially in the chips and telecom sectors. Given both supply chain warfare and security concerns, how should India navigate tech geopolitics?Lokendra sits down with Avinash and Tannmay to discuss the findings from the ‘Technopolitik: A Technology Geopolitics Survey’, a public survey conducted by the researchers of the High-Tech Geopolitics Progra...
2025-04-1148 min
All Things PolicyImpact of Technology in Law Enforcement and PolicingIn this episode of All Things Policy, Yamini J Kumar, in conversation with Mr. Javeed Ahmad, talks about how technology is reshaping law enforcement and policing in India. From AI-based surveillance to cybercrime laws, we discuss both the opportunities and the challenges that come with tech-driven policing. Our guest, Mr. Javeed Ahmed, a seasoned IPS officer, shares insights on tools being used, privacy concerns, ethical questions, and the future of policing. Whether you're curious about facial recognition, cybercrime, or data protection laws, this episode breaks it all down in an engaging conversation.The PGP...
2025-04-1042 min
All Things PolicyGovernment Powered Podium DreamsIn this episode of All Things Policy, Malathi Renati chats with Cmdr Rajesh Rajagopalan, the first CEO of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), as he shares insightful experiences from his pioneering role. From heartwarming stories of government-led efforts to support and uplift athletes to reflections on public-private partnerships (PPP) and his current work as CEO of the Dani Sports Foundation—this conversation dwells on the intersection of policy, passion, and podium dreams.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of...
2025-04-0939 min
All Things PolicyThe Satellite Internet RevolutionSatellite internet is rewriting the rules of connectivity. In this episode of All Things Policy, Ashwin Prasad and Sowmya Prabhakar, COO at the Takshashila Institution, unpack the rise of Cloud Nomads and how beaming broadband from space will shift digital behaviours, challenge governance frameworks, and spark geopolitical issues.Monopolies in the sky? Check.Satellite insurance (yes, it’s a thing)? Check.Privacy when your data is literally out of this world? Double-check.Tune in as we orbit around the universe of implications that satellite internet could have on society, markets, and government....
2025-04-0842 min
All Things PolicySubversive Media: How Protest Movements Harness Alternative CommunicationWhen mainstream media turns a blind eye—or worse, reinforces exploitative power structures—protest movements turn to alternative channels to make their voices heard. From underground pamphlets and newsletters in colonial India to encrypted WhatsApp groups and digital zines in contemporary resistance movements, subversive media has long played a critical role in mobilising dissent. In this episode of All Things Policy, Maya Patra and Leah Govias discuss the past, present and future of alternative media during the time of protest.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep...
2025-04-0737 min
All Things PolicyWhat Makes The Chinese S&T Ecosystem Tick?China's tech innovation has excelled despite a heavy-handed state crackdown on the private sector. Disruptors like Deepseek have emerged, and policy signals from the recent private tech entrepreneurs' symposium and the National People's Congress seem to finally ease on businesses, promising only to "guide them on national priorities."In this video episode of 'All Things Policy', Anushka Saxena quizzes Shobhankita Reddy on the latest developments in China's Science and Tech policy and innovation ecosystems, and where the tech economy is headed. Shobhankita also focuses on the factors that have led to China's growth as a tech superpower...
2025-04-0440 min
All Things PolicyChina's Exports of Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs)China has emerged as one of the world's leading developers of Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs). This is reflected in China's exports of UCAVs, especially across West Asia and Central Africa. In this episode of All Things Policy, Shobhankita Reddy sits down with Adya Madhavan, researcher with the Takshashila Institution, to discuss Adya's latest research work examining the factors that have enabled China to build such a robust export market, the politics of UCAV exports, and the implications for other countries, including India. The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those...
2025-04-0330 min
All Things PolicyEconomic Boycotts: Bane or Boon?From France to Canada, headlines across the world are reporting consumer boycotts as a way for citizens to express their dissatisfaction with global economic policies. In France, for example, a widely cited poll in mainstream French media reported that 6 out of 10 French consumers supported a movement to reject American brands and products made in the US in response to the US' trade tariffs and growing anti-European sentiment. But what are economic boycotts exactly? And how effective are they? What could such boycotts say of a country's law-making institutions? In this episode of All Things Policy, Kripa Koshy (Programme Manager...
2025-04-0236 min
All Things PolicyTracking Wildfires: Mapping Impacts and RisksWildfires are increasing in intensity and frequency—but do we know their extent? In this episode of All Things Policy, Swathi Kalyani and Keerthishree dissect India's wildfire hotspots, the shifting patterns of wildfires, and the challenges that come with them. We also look at California's catastrophic January 2025 wildfire to discuss what makes California so susceptible and if India is at risk of such incidents. From geospatial technology to policy solutions, we examine strategies for the prevention of wildfires, disaster management, and safeguarding of local communities. Listen in for insights on addressing this growing threat. In the latest ed...
2025-04-0123 min
All Things PolicyThe Times They Are A-Changin': The Descent of DissentIn this episode, Shobhankita (Research Analyst, Takshashila), Kripa and Suman (Programme Managers, Takshashila) discuss the dwindling number of movies with themes around dissent. They examine a timeline of Hindi films from the 50s onwards to analyse the reasons for this change and its implications for society. The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get a well-rounded learning experience. The curriculum is delivered online, punctuated with in-person workshops...
2025-03-2830 min
All Things PolicyState of AI GovernanceIn this episode of All Things Policy, Bharath Reddy and Rijesh Panicker discuss their upcoming report on AI governance. Stay tuned till the end for their predictions on the future of AI governance!The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get a well-rounded learning experience. The curriculum is delivered online, punctuated with in-person workshops across India.https://school.takshashila.org.in/pgpAll Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengalu...
2025-03-2737 min
All Things PolicyMauritius, India and China: The Tug of War in the Indian OceanIn this episode of All Things Policy, Maya Patra and Swathi Kalyani discuss Prime Minister Modi’s recent visit to Mauritius, analysing India’s strategic engagement in the Indian Ocean. The conversation contrasts India’s developmental approach—rooted in historical ties and security cooperation—with China’s large-scale infrastructure investments and economic influence. They explore how Mauritius serves as a microcosm of India-China competition in Africa and examine whether these partnerships foster genuine development or economic dependency.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical...
2025-03-2635 min
All Things PolicyA Deep-Dive Into India's Venture Capital EcosystemStartups are integral to the Indian growth story. From grocery delivery app Zepto to HR software Darwinbox, we frequently come across news of Indian startups raising millions of dollars from venture capital (VC) funds. But why are startups, including deep tech ones, funded by a specific class of investors called 'VC'? Why are the stock market and the traditional banks not playing this role? How does a typical VC fund operate in India? What challenges do they face?In this episode of All Things Policy, Lokendra Sharma sits down with Shobhankita Reddy, a research...
2025-03-2548 min
All Things PolicyIndia-US Trade: India's Strategic OptionsIn this episode of All Things Policy, Anupam Manur, Shikha Tomar, and Anisree Suresh delve into the intricacies of India-US trade relations amidst reciprocal tariff threats from the US. They explore India's strategic options and propose that a bilateral treaty, coupled with the opening up of key sectors, would be a mutually beneficial arrangement for both India and the US.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of...
2025-03-2431 min
All Things PolicyTrump's World: What are India's Options? Is Donald Trump truly remaking American foreign policy? How might his actions impact great power politics? In this episode of All Things Policy, Manoj Kewalramani and Aditya Ramanathan take a hard look at India's choices in an uncertain world.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get a well-rounded learning experience. The curriculum is delivered online, punctuated with in-person workshops across India.https://school.takshashila.org.in/pgp...
2025-03-2133 min
All Things PolicyIdentity and Protest: The Pakistan-Administered Kashmir StoryIn this episode of All Things Policy, Adya Madhavan is in conversation with Malik Moin Abbas about identity in Pakistan Administered Kashmir. Moin delves into the historical narratives that were perpetuated and the many factors that led to a change. The 2024 protests in the region in particular, were a pivotal movement and saw many groups coming together and reclaiming a sense of collective identity. The conversation also touches upon how the state and governance have shaped identity.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the...
2025-03-2027 min
All Things PolicyPeople’s Networks: How Community Media is Transforming Local Governance in IndiaCommunity networks that function as media platforms—such as community radio, grassroots journalism, and digital collectives—are empowering people to take control of the narratives that shape their lives. From Sangam Radio in Telangana to Khabar Lahariya’s fearless rural journalism, these community-driven platforms are redefining civic engagement and governance at the grassroots level**.In this episode, Kripa Koshy and Shreya Ramakrishnan explore India’s grassroots media and community networks—how they empower local governance, amplify citizen voices, and bridge the gap between policy and everyday life.🔗 Check out the community networks featured in this episode:
2025-03-1927 min
All Things PolicyWomen Leadership in SportsIn this episode of All Things Policy, Vaidehi Vaidya (Founder and MD - Women In Sports India) shares with Malathi Renati the toolkit her organization is developing to gather data-driven insights aimed at identifying and addressing barriers to women's leadership in sports. They also discuss the economic aspects and the role of society in effecting meaningful change. The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students g...
2025-03-1838 min
All Things PolicyCuriosity in the Age of AIIn this episode of All Things Policy, Wini Fred Gurung and Sourav Mannaraprayil explore a critical question: Is AI quietly killing our curiosity and critical thinking or simply making us more efficient? As AI tools like ChatGPT become ubiquitous in education, work, and creative fields, the duo examines how this growing reliance on instant answers and automation might weaken our cognitive abilities. Read our opinion piece, “Curiosity in the Age of AI’ in the link below - www.deccanherald.com/opinion/curiosity-in-the-age-of-ai-3426884The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve...
2025-03-1716 min
All Things PolicyRising Mercury: India's Heat ChallengeThe Indian Meteorological Department recently issued heatwave alerts for districts in Karnataka and Kerala. In this episode, Swathi Kalyani and Dr. Y. Nithiyanandam, part of the Geospatial Programme at the Takshashila Institution, explore the definition of heatwaves, its impact across sectors and communities, how cities are adapting to rising heat and what more needs to be done. The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students...
2025-03-1329 min
All Things PolicyRedefining Gender Policies in the Indian SubcontinentWhile global gender frameworks set crucial benchmarks, they often fail to capture the localised realities of the Indian subcontinent, where identity, mobility, and political structures shape women’s experiences in ways Western models overlook. In this episode of All Things Policy, AIshwaria Sonavane and Amna Nasir break down why one-size-fits-all policies fall short and explore what a more localized, intersectional approach could look like.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad an...
2025-03-1233 min
All Things PolicyIs a Rose by Any Other Name Still a Rose? How Do You Know?In India, many plants serve both as food and medicine. Shambhavi Naik discusses with Megha (@meghaphd), Varun from TDU, and Bob Allkin from the Royal Botanic Gardens about the use and regulation of medicinal plants.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get a well-rounded learning experience. The curriculum is delivered online, punctuated with in-person workshops across India.https://school.takshashila.org.in/pgp
2025-03-1139 min
All Things PolicyAustralia-India Ties in the Trump EraDonald Trump’s second term in the White House has resulted in allies and partners, like Australia and India, adjusting to new geopolitical realities. In this episode, Manoj Kewalramani speaks to Lisa Singh, the CEO of the Australia India Institute at the University of Melbourne, about how Australia is adapting to these changes and the future of India-Australia ties.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, en...
2025-03-1040 min
All Things PolicyWalking the Talk on WalkabilityHow walkable are India’s cities? Are our footpaths safe and accessible? In this episode, Kripa Koshy, Suman Joshi, and Sarthak Pradhan discuss the state of pedestrian infrastructure in Indian cities. They explore the key obstacles to walkability and reflect on potential solutions to make our cities more pedestrian-friendly.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get a well-rounded learning experience. The curriculum is delivered online, pu...
2025-03-0742 min
All Things PolicyMegaphone vs Muffled Diplomacy: Does shouting across borders work?In this episode, Vanshika Saraf sits down with Rushali Saha to unpack the shifting dynamics between Delhi and Dhaka. More than six months after Sheikh Hasina’s exit and a new interim leadership in Bangladesh, bilateral relations are at a crossroads. Can India recalibrate its strategy and move beyond megaphone diplomacy? How will Bangladesh’s warming ties with Pakistan and China reshape the neighbourhood? And is there a way to restore balance in this historically cyclical relationship? Join them as they dive into the politics, power plays, and backchannel diplomacy shaping the future of India-Bangladesh relations.The...
2025-03-0630 min
All Things PolicyDo Populists Make Populist Foreign Policy?In this episode of All Things Policy, Wini Fred Gurung and Rishabh Yadav discuss Rishabh’s paper “Do populists make populist foreign policy: Pakistan's foreign policy under Imran khan,” which looks at the linkages between Populism and foreign policy where civilian supremacy is lacking.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get a well-rounded learning experience. The curriculum is delivered online, punctuated with in-person worksh...
2025-03-0518 min
All Things PolicyThe Most Dangerous Place on EarthCross-Strait relations between China and Taiwan have seldom been without tensions. Developments from the past few days, however, have ignited military and political skirmishes between the two sides once again. In this episode of 'All Things Policy', Amit Kumar and Anushka Saxena discuss the takeaways from China's recently concluded Taiwan Affairs Work Conference, and the latest confrontation between Taiwanese and Chinese naval vessels in Strait waters. Anushka also opines on what Trump means for Taiwan, and how the US is shaping cross-Strait relations.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those...
2025-03-0330 min
All Things PolicyBengaluru’s Metro Fare Hike: Necessary Move or Commuter Nightmare?Bengaluru Metro’s recent fare hike has sparked plenty of frustration—while BMRCL insists it’s necessary to stay afloat, commuters are feeling the pinch. With rising transport costs, is public transport losing its edge as an affordable alternative?In this episode of All Things Policy, host Sourav Mannaraprayil sits down with Anisree Suresh to unpack the metro fare hike, its impact on daily commuters, and why affordability is key to a thriving public transport system. They also explore smarter ways to generate revenue, from real estate and advertising to congestion charges—without making passengers foot the entire b...
2025-02-2821 min
All Things PolicyOut With The Old, In With The New - India's Industrial PoliciesOne of the key objectives of any economy’s industrial policy is to boost domestic manufacturing. India’s manufacturing sector, however, has remained stagnant. In addition, India's industrial policies have sometimes violated WTO norms and resulted in a number of trade disputes. Is India creating norms of it’s own when it comes to such policies or is it just following the crowd? In this episode of All Things Policy, Kripa Koshy is joined by Sarthak Pradhan (Assistant Professor, Takshashila), where Sarthak argues that India isn’t creating any new norms with regard to its industrial policies. Further, India should r...
2025-02-2728 min
All Things PolicyTakeaways from the Paris AI Action SummitIn this episode of All Things Policy, Rohan Pai and Shobhankita Reddy discuss the recently concluded Paris AI Action Summit that was co-chaired by France and India. What are the outcomes of the summit and why did the US and the UK decline to sign the summit's final statement? What are the implications of this for the global AI landscape?Tune in to read the tea leaves on the changing political winds in AI.Shobhankita's recent opinion piece on the summit here - [https://www.firstpost.com/opinion/how-paris-ai-summit-was-a-quiet-success-13864037.html]...
2025-02-2625 min
All Things PolicyGOA(T): The Greatest of Agri Tourism?In this episode of All Things Policy, Aparna Rajesh and Maya Patra discuss the Goa State Amrit Kaal Agriculture Policy 2025 and its emphasis on agri-tourism. The policy aims to integrate agriculture with tourism, providing farmers with additional income streams through farm stays, experiential visits, and rural tourism activities. They examine successful Agri-tourism models from Maharashtra and Thailand, analysing their economic impact and sustainability. The discussion also covers challenges in Goa, including infrastructure gaps, marketing constraints, and the need for policy support. With the state’s strong tourism sector, can agri-tourism be a viable strategy for rural development? ...
2025-02-2518 min
All Things PolicyHowdy Modi 2.0? India's PM Narendra Modi became one of the first state leaders to pay a visit to the US as Trump 2.0 completes a month in office. Join Anushka Saxena and Amit Kumar in this episode of ATP where they discuss whether Modi's visit succeeded in assuaging the anxieties surrounding the Indo-US ties.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get a well-rounded learning experience. The curriculum is delivered...
2025-02-2424 min
All Things PolicyMetropolis Matters: India’s Urban Challenges & FixesHave you found yourself frustrated with some of the issues you face every day in your city? Be it real estate prices or public transport systems? In this episode of All Things Policy, Miheer Karandikar unpacks some of the problems that plague India's cities today and outlines some measures that can be taken to mitigate them. The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get...
2025-02-2131 min
All Things Policy'Loiter'-ally Speaking: Gender Responsive Urban Design in IndiaHow can cities be designed to be more inclusive and accessible for women? In this episode of All Things Policy, Maya and Aparna explore gender-responsive urban design in India—examining how public transport, street lighting, and city planning impact women's mobility and safety. They discuss global best practices, community-driven initiatives, and policy solutions India can adopt to transform urban spaces. From innovative planning strategies to grassroots efforts, they unpack ways to help women reclaim their right to roam.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into th...
2025-02-2031 min
All Things PolicyLandmarks and Legends: How Maps Led the WayThroughout history, Humans have crossed forests and the sea using their navigation skills. Europeans leveraged maps for conquering foreign lands and improving their administration. As we rely so much on technology for our movements in the present, how did people of the past navigate unfamiliar lands? What kind of maps did they create? What relevance do maps hold today? Join Sowmya and Swathi Kalyani of the Takshashila Institution as they sit down with Anirudh Kanisetti, historian and author of Lords of Earth and Sea, to answer these questions.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week...
2025-02-1925 min
All Things PolicyDecoding R&D in the Union Budget 2025-26A budget reflects the government's priorities. The union finance minister presented the budget a few days back. Given the role of research and development (R&D) in fostering innovation and driving economic growth, it is worth exploring the union budget provisions to facilitate R&D in India - What does the government's R&D spending look like? What about prominent policies like the Anusandhan National Research Foundation or One Nation, One Subscription? How will the Finance Minister's announcement of a ₹20,000 crore loan to private sector research play out? Sarthak Pradhan and Shambhavi Naik dive into these questions in this ep...
2025-02-1842 min
All Things PolicyInnovation Policy, AI and Economic GrowthJoin Abhishek Nagaraj and Arindam Goswami in this episode of All Things Policy, where we discuss innovation policy, private sector R&D and AI. In today's world of techno-nationalism, where technological supremacy is considered to be an indicator of a country's prowess, and in the ever-evolving landscape of technological advancement, innovation and private sector research and development have become the backbone of economic growth. And recent developments in AI have dramatically accelerated this innovation cycle. Join us as we discuss all this and much more in this fascinating podcast episode.Abhishek Nagaraj is an...
2025-02-171h 01
All Things PolicyMaking Sense of the DeepSeek News StoryThe big news story in artificial intelligence is the R1 model from DeepSeek, a chinese AI lab. Shobhankita and Rijesh from the Takshashila Institution's High-Tech Geopolitics programme explore why this is newsworthy and what this means for the AI community in India as well as globally.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get a well-rounded learning experience. The curriculum is delivered online, punctuated...
2025-02-1038 min
All Things PolicyA New Approach to the De-Risking DebateIn the latest episode of 'All Things Policy', Anushka Saxena quizzes Amit Kumar on his approach and framework to determine sectors of vulnerability in the burgeoning and asymmetric India-China Trade Relationship. Amit also sheds light on why electronic and electrical components, machinery and machine tools, and organic chemicals should emerge as priority sectors in India's de-risking strategy, and how such a strategy can be pursued.
Strategic and Critical Vulnerability Framework: https://takshashila.org.in/research/takshashila-discussion-document-defining-dependence-induced-vulnerabilities-in-asymmetrical-trade-interdependence-a-conceptual-framework
De-risking India's Trade With China: https://takshashila.org.in/research/de-risking-indias-trade-with-china-identifying-strategic-and-critical-vulnerabilities
Watching China is...
2025-01-2432 min
All Things PolicyIndia's strategic dilemma in Myanmar's Civil warSince the military coup in 2021, things have dramatically changed in Myanmar and the nation has succumbed to a civil war. Shobhankita and Vanshika, research analysts at The Takshashila Institution, discuss the complex situation in Myanmar, its geopolitical implications and way forward for India-Myanmar relations.
Link to Vanshika's working paper here-
https://takshashila.org.in/research/overcoming-a-strategic-blindspot-indias-turn-towards-myanmar
Watching China is a 5-week weekend course starting February 1st, designed to help you decode the structures, ideology, and strategies of one of the world’s most influential nations. Perfect for professionals, students, or anyone curious ab...
2025-01-2036 min
All Things PolicyThe Accessibility PuzzleIn this episode, Sowmya Prabhakar, COO of Takshashila Institution, is in conversation with Bhumika Modh from The Association of People with Disability (APD, India). They talk about the recent developments in the accessibility space. Using the framework of society, markets & government - they dwell on what it takes to make accessibility a reality for PwDs in India.
All Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru.
The Takshashila Institution has designed the 'Technopolitik: A Technology Geopolitics Survey' to understand and assess what people think about how India should na...
2025-01-0243 min
All Things PolicyOne Nation One Subscription: Yet another stratagem?It is a season for one nation, one ‘fill in the blank’. The Government of India, on 25 November 2024, approved One Nation One Subscription — or ONOS for short — as a Central Sector Scheme. Lokendra sits down with Shambhavi — head of research at Takshashila, to unpack the ONOS and discuss its upsides and downsides.
All Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru.
The Takshashila Institution has designed the 'Technopolitik: A Technology Geopolitics Survey' to understand and assess what people think about how India should navigate high-tech geopolitics.
Please take this 5-min...
2024-12-3147 min
All Things PolicyEngaging with Sino-India DisengagementIndia's Minister of External Affairs, S Jaishankar, recently briefed the Parliament on the disengagement deal between India and China in Depsang and Demchok. While he touched upon several aspects of the deal, many questions remain unanswered. In this episode of ATP, Amit Kumar and Anushka Saxena of Takshashila's Indo-Pacific Studies Programme break down Jaishankar's statement and get into the specifics that went unaddressed.
All Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru.
The Takshashila Institution has designed the 'Technopolitik: A Technology Geopolitics Survey' to understand and assess what...
2024-12-1729 min
All Things PolicyLLMs in Indian languages: An insurmountable challenge?Large language models (LLMs) generally do not work that well with non-English languages. But why is that the case? What does this mean for India, which has 22 languages recognised by the constitution and, according to different estimates, has total languages running into hundreds? How do we build and deploy LLMs for Indian languages? Should we even do so? Lokendra sits with Adya and Anwesha from the Takshashila Institution to discuss these pertinent issues.
All Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru.
The Takshashila Institution has designed...
2024-12-1637 min
All Things PolicyIndia's state capacity challengesIn this episode of All Things Policy, Miheer and Anisree delve into India's state capacity challenges. They examine the Takshashila Institution's research on the topic and propose solutions to address these challenges in key domains.
All Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru.
The Takshashila Institution has designed the 'Technopolitik: A Technology Geopolitics Survey' to understand and assess what people think about how India should navigate high-tech geopolitics. Please take this 5-minute survey at the following link: https://bit.ly/technopolitik_survey
Find out more on...
2024-12-1026 min
All Things PolicyIndian Women's Participation in LeisureAt a time when the labor force participation of women in India continues to lag significantly behind that of men, is a woman’s participation in leisure a challenge? Leisure enthusiasts, Kripa Koshy, Rijesh Paniker, and Shreya Ramakrishnan discuss. What do the women in your life do for leisure? Do you think leisure is necessary? Write to us at contact@takshashila.org.in. Books mentioned in this episode include ‘Why Loiter’ and ‘The Many Lives of Syeda X : The Story of an Unknown Indian’.
All Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Tak...
2024-11-2944 min
All Things PolicyHow Chinese Analysts View India's Climate DiplomacyIn this episode of the All Things Policy podcast, Rakshith Shetty and Amit Kumar talk about Rakshith's latest issue brief on the opinions of Chinese analysts on India's climate change diplomacy. One of the seven recurrent themes in the Chinese narrative that is highlighted in the discussion is the dual-track diplomacy narrative. In case you haven't read Rakshith's piece yet, this podcast provides a succinct and captivating substitute. Here is the link to the paper, though, so please read it. - https://takshashila.org.in/research/drones-in-modern-warfare-takshashila-working-paper-kh2a4
All Things Policy is a daily podcast on public...
2024-10-3037 min
All Things PolicyDeliberating a New Modus Vivendi with ChinaIndia-China relations are dynamic, featuring periods of marked conflict, competition, and some cooperation. Structurally, however, the relations face significant challenges today, in domains ranging from the boundary dispute and trade imbalance, to broader tensions surrounding leadership of the 'Global South', burgeoning US-China contestation, and competing visions for a regional order. And even though the structural faultlines cannot be wished away, they require a crisp and innovative means to think about achieving equilibrium and some stability.
In this episode of 'All Things Policy', Manoj Kewalramani speaks to Anushka Saxena about a pathway towards achieving a new modus vivendi...
2024-10-2338 min
All Things PolicyGrowing PLA's High-Altitude Helicopter Infrastructure in TibetIn this episode of All Things Policy, Ashwin Prasad quizzes Dr. Y. Nithiyanandam on the strategic significance of PLA heliports and helipads in Tibet, as featured in the Takshashila Geospatial Bulletin. Explore how these infrastructures are reshaping military dynamics and their implications for India. This conversation offers key insights into the region's high-altitude military strategy and geospatial developments.
Read the bulletin here: https://geospatialbulletin.takshashila.org.in/p/10-high-altitude-hubs-the-strategic
All Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru.
Find out more on our research...
2024-09-0626 min
All Things PolicyThe Bangladesh Crisis and IndiaThere is no doubt that the fall of Shaikh Hasina’s democratically elected government in Bangladesh poses both a strategic as well as a diplomatic challenge to India. This crisis underscores the delicate interplay of regional politics, international interests, and the implications for India’s own strategic interests. Prime Minister Hasina was in charge of Bangladesh for 15 years, and what began as a student-led agitation, soon turned out to be a regime-change situation in a matter of weeks. In this episode of All Things Policy, Takshashila Senior Fellow Sachin Kalbag and Takshashila Scholar Yusuf Unjhawala discuss the contours of the...
2024-08-2131 min
All Things PolicyIndia's Whey Protein Market: Demand and Supply ConundrumIn this episode of All Things Policy, Anisree Suresh and Rohan Pai delve into the imbalances between demand and supply in India's whey protein market. This discussion examines the competitive advantage of India's dairy sector, the role of private players, and the factors that hinder whey protein production in India, as well as strategies for enhancing India's competitiveness in this market. To know more, check out Takshashila's discussion doc: https://takshashila.org.in/research/indiaswheyproteinmarketdemandandsupplyconundrum
All Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru. Find out more on...
2024-08-0728 min
All Things PolicyApple Intelligence: Cloudy with a Chance of PrivacyApple has announced that they are deeply integrating AI into the operating systems for their devices. Rijesh Panicker and Bharath Reddy discuss how Apple's approach is different and explore some of the policy implications behind the growing trend of integrating AI into phones. This applies some of the analysis from Takshashila's work on AI governance which can be accessed here - https://takshashila.org.in/research/a-pathway-to-ai-governance
All Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru. Find out more on our research and other work here: https://taksh...
2024-06-2523 min
All Things PolicyJourney Through Tibet: Unlocking the Secrets of Transport InfrastructureJoin us for an insightful episode of " Journey Through Tibet: Unlocking the Secrets of Transport Infrastructure," where Shreya Ramakrishnan, Programme Manager of the Graduate Certificate in Public Policy (Advanced Public Policy) program at Takshashila Institution, interacts with Dr. Y. Nithiyanandam, Professor and Head of Geospatial Research at Takshashila Institution. They delve into Dr. Nithiyanandam’s latest article, "#9 Unlocking Tibet: In-Depth Mapping of Transport Infrastructure Through Geo-Spatial Analysis," published in the Takshashila Geospatial Bulletin. Discover the transformative impact of transport infrastructure in Tibet, explore the economic and strategic implications, and uncover the challenges and opportunities ahead. Don't miss this engaging di...
2024-06-1421 min