"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

#Policy

Good News

India Takes Center Stage : Elected to UN ECOSOC for 2026-28

India's recent election to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for a three-year term from 2026 to 2028 marks a significant milestone in the country's diplomatic journey. This election shows India's commitment as a key player in shaping global development policies.Understanding ECOSOC: History and FunctionsEstablished in 1945 under the UN Charter, ECOSOC is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations. Its primary work is to coordinate the UN's economic, social, humanitarian, and cultural work. ECOSOC serves as a central platform for global policy dialogue, review, and development recommendations. The council consists of 54 member states elected by the UN General Assembly for overlapping three-year terms. ECOSOC's functions are multifaceted. It oversees 15 specialized agencies, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO), and coordinates the work of various UN entities. The council also plays a crucial role in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and fostering international cooperation across economic, social, and environmental spheres.India's Election to the UN ECOSOCIndia was elected to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for a three-year term from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2028. The election took place on June 4, 2025, at the UN Headquarters in New York City. India received 181 out of 187 valid votes, showcasing strong global backing for its candidacy.This marks India's 18th term on ECOSOC, having previously served from 2008 to 2020. India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Parvathaneni Harish, will play a pivotal role in representing India's interests within the council. With this election, India aims to champion development issues, promote sustainable development practices, and strengthen its commitment to multilateralism.India's Role in ECOSOCIndia's election to ECOSOC is proof of its growing influence in global affairs. With its seat on the council, India can shape the international agenda on critical policy issues like poverty, climate change, education, and health. Moreover, India can use this platform to represent the voice of the unheard, advocating for fairer economic structures, technology transfer, and climate finance.India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, has expressed India's commitment to championing development issues and strengthening the working of ECOSOC. This election also provides India with an opportunity to promote global sustainable development practices from its own experiences in reducing hunger and poverty and increasing levels of education and clean energy adoption.Challenges and OpportunitiesECOSOC's term for India may witness potential issues such as managing geopolitical rivalries and gathering consensus amongst diverse members. However, this also presents an opportunity for India to demonstrate its diplomatic power and commitment to bilateral relations. India can use its trust and credibility to raise the issue of structural reforms in the United Nations Security Council.ECOSOC Membership and Election ProcessECOSOC membership is allocated based on equitable geographical representation across five regional groups: African States, Asia-Pacific States, Eastern European States, Latin American and Caribbean States, and Western European and other States. The UN General Assembly elects ECOSOC members annually by secret ballot, with a two-thirds majority of valid votes cast required for election. India's election to ECOSOC marks a significant step toward global development leadership. With its commitment to promoting sustainable development practices, India is well-positioned to shape the international agenda. As ECOSOC continues to play a central role in advancing the international development agenda, India's participation will undoubtedly contribute to fostering global cooperation and achieving the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) by 2030.

10 Jun 2025
Good News

How Surat Became the World’s First City to Trade Particulate Pollution — and Win!

The city of Surat in Gujarat, India, has been a hub of industrial activity for decades, but with it came a significant increase in air pollution. To combat this issue, the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) launched the Surat Emission Trading Scheme (ETS) in 2019, a pioneering market-based approach to reduce particulate matter emissions. The scheme allows industries to buy and sell permits for emissions, providing a financial incentive for them to reduce their pollution levels.How the Scheme WorksThe Surat ETS is a cap-and-trade system, where industries are allocated a certain number of permits based on their emissions potential. Those that stay within their limits can sell their unused permits to others that exceed their limits. This approach has been used in Europe for greenhouse gases and in China for carbon emissions, but the Surat ETS is the world's first-ever market for trading in particulate matter emissions. A recent study published in The Quarterly Journal of Economics found that the plants participating in the ETS reduced particulate matter emissions by 20-30% while lowering pollution control costs by 11%. The study, conducted by researchers from the University of Chicago, Yale University, and the University of Warwick, used a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the effectiveness of the scheme. The results showed that plants in the ETS had permits to cover their emissions 99% of the time, compared to plants outside the market, which failed to meet pollution norms for nearly a third of the study period.The BenefitsAccording to Michael Greenstone, study co-author and Milton Friedman Distinguished Service Professor in Economics at the University of Chicago, “The market delivered a rare win-win-win by reducing pollution, decreasing abatement costs, and raising the government's success at enforcing the law.” The success of the Surat ETS has far-reaching implications for environmental policy in India and beyond. The scheme has already been expanded to include plants originally left out of the pilot experiment, and a second market has been launched in Ahmedabad, Gujarat's largest city and a major industrial hub. The research team is working with other Indian states to develop statewide markets for sulfur dioxide emissions and providing strategic advice to several other Indian state governments.Rohini Pande, study co-author and Professor of Economics at Yale University, notes, “The exciting part of the emissions trading scheme that we did for particulate matter is that it provides a proof of concept that even in a setting with lower state capacity, a compliance market can work, and often will outperform the command-and-control approach.”Key Takeaways- The Surat Emission Trading Scheme (ETS) has reduced particulate matter emissions by 20-30% among participating industries.- The scheme has lowered pollution control costs by 11% for participating industries.- The ETS has improved compliance, with plants holding enough permits to cover their emissions 99% of the time.- The success of the Surat ETS has implications for environmental policy in India and beyond.The Surat ETS is a groundbreaking initiative that has shown that market-based approaches can be effective in reducing pollution while promoting economic growth. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, innovative solutions like the Surat ETS can provide valuable lessons for policymakers and industries alike.

17 Apr 2025
Good News

India Opens Space Sector to 100% Foreign Investment with New FDI Policy

India has recently announced a significant development in its space sector with the opening up of 100% foreign investment through a new Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) policy. This move is expected to have far-reaching implications for the country's space industry and its ambition to become self-reliant in the sector. Liberalized FDI Policy to Boost Space Sector Under the amended FDI policy, the Indian government has allowed 100% FDI in the space sector, marking a significant departure from the previous restrictions that required government approval for foreign investments. This liberalization is aimed at attracting potential investors to contribute to the growth of the Indian space industry. Expansion of FDI Opportunities The new policy provides specific FDI thresholds for different sub-sectors and activities within the space sector. Satellite manufacturing and operation, satellite data products, and ground segment and user segment can receive FDI up to 74% under the automatic route, beyond which the government route will be applicable. Furthermore, activities related to launch vehicles and associated systems, sub-systems, and the creation of spaceports can receive FDI up to 49% under the automatic route. Enhancing Ease of Doing Business The Indian government's decision to liberalize the FDI policy in the space sector is expected to enhance the ease of doing business in the country. This move is likely to attract more foreign direct investment inflows, leading to substantial growth in investment, income, and employment opportunities. Supporting Atmanirbhar Bharat Initiative The new FDI policy aligns with the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) as laid down by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. By encouraging foreign investments in the space sector, the government aims to integrate Indian companies into global value chains, promote the 'Make in India' initiative, and stimulate the growth of an independent and self-sustaining space industry. Unlocking India's Potential in Space The Indian Space Policy 2023 serves as a comprehensive framework to implement the vision for unlocking India's potential in the space sector and fostering enhanced private participation. The policy aims to augment space capabilities, develop a thriving commercial presence in space, promote technology development, and derive benefits in allied areas. It also emphasizes the importance of international collaborations and creating a conducive ecosystem for effective implementation of space applications. Benefits of Increased Private Sector Participation With increased FDI in the space sector, private companies are expected to play a more significant role in satellite manufacturing, launch vehicles, and associated systems. This increased participation is likely to generate employment opportunities, facilitate technology absorption, and make the sector self-reliant. Indian companies will have the opportunity to establish their manufacturing facilities within the country, aligning with the government's 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives. Consultation with Stakeholders The Department of Space consulted with internal stakeholders such as IN-SPACe, ISRO, NSIL, and various industrial stakeholders to formulate the liberalized FDI policy. The involvement of experts and industrial players ensures that the policy reforms align with the needs and capabilities of the Indian space industry. By liberalizing the FDI regulations, India aims to attract foreign investors, boost economic growth, and establish a self-reliant space industry. This move is expected to create employment opportunities, promote technology absorption, and position India as a key player in the global space economy.  

27 Feb 2024
Good News

Iran Implements 15-Day Visa-Free Policy to Attract Indian Tourists

In a bid to boost tourism, Iran has recently announced a 15-day visa-free policy for Indian tourists. This new development comes as several countries, including Vietnam, Thailand, and Sri Lanka, have also relaxed their visa rules for Indian travelers. This article explores the details of Iran's visa-free policy and its potential impact on Indian tourists. Iran's Visa-Free Policy for Indian Tourists The Iran Embassy in New Delhi revealed that, as of Tuesday, February 6, 2024, Indian tourists will be allowed to enter the country without a visa for a maximum stay of 15 days. This policy applies to those traveling on ordinary passports and can be availed once every six months. However, the stay cannot be extended beyond the designated 15-day period. Tourism Purposes Only It is important to note that this visa-free policy is solely applicable for tourists visiting Iran. Travelers interested in staying for a longer duration or making multiple entries within a six-month period will need to obtain the necessary visas through the Iranian representations in India. A Growing Trend Iran joins a growing list of countries that have implemented visa-free policies for Indian tourists. Vietnam, Thailand, and Sri Lanka have already eased their visa rules, aiming to attract more Indian visitors. Last year, Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced a 30-day visa-free entry for visitors from India and China. Thailand also introduced visa-free entry for Indian tourists for a period of six months. Boosting Tourism and Strengthening Ties Iran's decision to implement a visa-free policy for Indian tourists is expected to have a positive impact on tourism in the country. The move aims to attract a larger number of Indian travelers who are keen to explore Iran's rich culture, historical sites, and natural beauty. Additionally, this policy is likely to strengthen the bilateral ties between India and Iran, fostering greater people-to-people interactions and cultural exchanges. Iran's introduction of a 15-day visa-free policy for Indian tourists is a significant step towards promoting tourism and strengthening ties between the two nations. As both countries continue to foster their relationship, this visa-free policy is expected to contribute to the growth of tourism and facilitate greater cultural understanding between India and Iran.

11 Feb 2024
Good News

India's First Cool Roof Policy: A Game-Changer in the Fight Against Heat Stress

Telangana is set to become the first state in India to introduce a Cool Roof Policy, aimed at mitigating the impact of urban heat islands and heat stress. The policy, which will be launched by the Municipal Administration and Urban Development Minister KT Rama Rao, will promote the use of cool roofs that reflect more sunlight than traditional roofs, absorbing less solar energy and reducing the temperature of buildings. The Telangana Cool Roof Policy 2023-28 aims to make the state more thermally comfortable and heat-resilient. It seeks to promote the adoption of cool roofs, create a supportive ecosystem of suppliers, trained manpower, and testing materials, and ensure that cool surfaces are accessible to everyone. The policy will also establish a system for monitoring and evaluating cool roof installations. By reducing CO2 emissions, the policy is expected to offset 30 million tCO2, and by keeping indoor temperatures 2.13 to 4.3 degrees Celsius lower than traditional roofs, it will result in cooler homes. Additionally, cool roofs require minimal maintenance and can save up to 20% in energy costs. The Telangana Cool Roof Policy is a step forward in addressing the challenges of urban heat islands and heat stress. It sets a precedent for other states in India to follow and highlights the importance of sustainable and energy-efficient building practices. By promoting cool roofs, Telangana is taking a significant step towards creating a more sustainable and comfortable environment for its residents.

3 Apr 2023
Good News

Extensive Sports Policy To Improve India’s Sports Culture

Union Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Rathore on Tuesday announced an extensive sports policy under Kehlo India programme, to bring about positive changes in India’s sports culture. He was speaking at an awards function in Bhopal where he discussed sweeping changes in the country’s sports policy including the National Games to be held in February that will provide a platform for raw young sporting talents. The minister informed that top 1,000 athletes will be chosen from the event each year and a scholarship of Rs 5 lakh will be given for eight years.National talent hunt camps will also be held for kids in the age group of 8-14 years. Coaches of national athletes who win laurels for the country will be given incentives. He also talked about an app that will keep the database of all the coaches in the country which also would ensue remunerations according to their potential. He proposed another app that will be of interest to parents as it informs about the nearest playground so that parents won’t have trouble seeking sports facilities for their kids. He further elaborated upon the 'Khelo India' programme and said that the budget for sports infrastructure would be invested in sporting talents.  The sports minister said, “In accordance with the intentions of PM Narendra Modi of empowering youths, this 'Khelo India' programme has been chalked out and I have no doubts why a country of 125 crore people can’t produce 100 Usain Bolts."  

7 Dec 2017
Good News

Positive Reads

International Education Day: Why Education Matters More Than Ever!

On January 24, we celebrate International Education Day, a global reminder that education isn’t just a privilege—it’s a right! Declared by the United Nations, this day celebrates how education fuels peace, progress, and sustainable development. And as the world faces climate change, conflicts, and rising inequality, education has never been more urgent.Education = Power: The Path to Global ProgressLet’s face it: Education changes everything. From breaking the chains of poverty to empowering women, education is a powerhouse that drives sustainable development. That’s why the UN’s SDG 4 is all about ensuring quality education for all—because learning is the key to tackling the world’s biggest challenges, like gender equality, climate action, and health.Sadly, not everyone has access to the education they deserve. Over 244 million kids are out of school, and millions more can’t even read or do basic math. In some parts of the world, girls face the toughest hurdles—less than 40% of them finish secondary school in sub-Saharan Africa. This isn’t just a statistic—it’s a global emergency. Education is a right, and we need to fight for it.UNESCO’s Big Push: Turning Challenges into OpportunitiesIn 2024, UNESCO ramped up its efforts to ensure education stays at the top of the global agenda. It is pushing for data-driven policies that provide equitable education for everyone. And with teacher training and digital transformation at the forefront, the world is gearing up to educate for a better, brighter future. However, substantial funding and urgent action are needed to make a real impact!"Tech Meets Education: AI’s Role in the ClassroomLooking ahead to 2025, International Education Day will dive deep into the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI is already changing the game in education, from personalized learning experiences to helping teachers assess students' work. But here’s the catch: many schools still don’t have clear guidelines on using AI responsibly.That’s where UNESCO comes in! By bringing global attention to AI in education, UNESCO wants to make sure this tech serves the students and teachers—not the other way around. Think better tools, safer classrooms, and smarter learning. Training both students and teachers to use AI responsibly is crucial for fully enhancing the learning experience.International Education Day isn’t just a celebration; it’s a rallying cry! We all have a role to play in making sure every child gets a chance to learn. Education is the tool we need to tackle poverty, inequality, and climate change. Whether it’s through better policies, more funding, or embracing new technologies like AI, we all have the power to make a difference.Together, we can reshape the future with a generation of informed, empowered, and forward-thinking global citizens.

24 Jan 2025
Positive Reads

The Non-Alignment Movement: India's Stance on Global Affairs During Cold War

India, a significant player on the global stage, has long been associated with the Non-Alignment Movement. But what exactly was the Non-Alignment Movement, and what prompted India to adopt this unique stance during the tumultuous era of the Cold War? The Non-Alignment Movement emerged in the mid-20th century as a response to the escalating tensions between the two superpowers, the United States and the Soviet Union. It was a gathering of nations that aimed to maintain their independence and sovereignty while refraining from aligning with either of the Cold War blocs. Led by prominent figures such as India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Yugoslavia's President, Josip Broz Tito, the movement sought to create a third path for countries navigating the bipolar world order. For India, the decision to embrace non-alignment was rooted in its historical experiences and principles. As a nation that had endured centuries of colonial rule, India was committed to preserving its sovereignty and promoting the principles of self-determination and non-interference in the affairs of other nations. Nehru, a key architect of India's foreign policy, envisioned a world where countries could pursue their own paths without succumbing to the pressures of the Cold War rivalry. India's non-alignment policy provided the country with several advantages. By staying neutral, India could maintain friendly relations with both the East and the West, facilitating economic and diplomatic cooperation with nations from different ideological backgrounds. This approach helped India secure aid and technical assistance from both sides, supporting its developmental goals and nation-building efforts. Furthermore, non-alignment allowed India to play a significant role in global affairs. It provided a platform for India to advocate for decolonization, disarmament, and the rights of developing nations. India's leadership in the Non-Alignment Movement gave it a voice on the international stage and helped shape the discourse on issues such as nuclear disarmament, apartheid, and human rights. The Non-Alignment Movement also aligned with India's domestic priorities. Nehru's vision of a socialist, secular, and democratic India resonated with the principles of non-alignment. India's commitment to social justice, economic equality, and inclusive development found synergy with the movement's emphasis on ending colonialism, promoting self-reliance, and addressing global inequalities. Over the years, India's engagement with the Non-Alignment Movement evolved. As the Cold War dynamics shifted and new global challenges emerged, India adjusted its foreign policy approach while maintaining its commitment to the principles of non-alignment. It actively participated in global forums such as the United Nations, the Non-Aligned Movement Summits, and various regional organizations, advocating for multilateralism, peace, and cooperation. In the post-Cold War era, India's non-alignment policy has evolved into a more nuanced and strategic approach. While continuing to prioritize its independence and sovereignty, India has forged partnerships and alliances based on shared interests and values. It has developed strong ties with countries across the globe, engaging in economic collaborations, defense cooperation, and mutual diplomacy. As the world continues to navigate complex geopolitical challenges, India's non-alignment legacy remains an important aspect of its foreign policy. It reflects the country's commitment to maintaining its strategic autonomy, promoting peace and stability, and advancing the interests of the developing world. The Non-Alignment Movement continues to influence India's role in global affairs. It has shaped India's approach to international relations, emphasizing diplomacy, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence. India's commitment to non-alignment highlights its aspiration to be a bridge-builder, a responsible global actor, and a proponent of a multipolar world order.

26 Oct 2023
Positive Reads

Global News

Smoke-Free Revolution: How Quit Like Sweden Movement is Changing the Global Game

In the global battle against smoking, Sweden stands poised to achieve a historic milestone as the first nation to reach the World Health Organization's "smoke-free" threshold. With nearly half of its male population once regular smokers, Sweden's remarkable transformation is now inspiring a worldwide movement through initiatives like Quit Like Sweden (QLS).  Through the use of conventional preventative and cessation techniques along with the provision of easily accessible, socially acceptable, and reasonably priced alternatives to smoking, Quit Like Sweden seeks to inspire other nations to emulate the Swedish Experience. The Current Headline ~ I Quit Like Sweden (QLS), which was introduced at a conference in Brasilia with politicians, medical experts, and policymakers, aims to inspire and assist nations across the world to follow Sweden's lead. Sweden is expected to become the first country in the world to achieve official "smoke-free" status later this year." Sweden has achieved this remarkable feat by ensuring that safer alternatives to smoking are accessible, acceptable, and affordable," said Suely Castro, creator of QLS and a harm reduction campaigner originally from Brazil. By enabling its smokers to convert to goods that provide only a fraction of the hazards, such as snus [traditional smokeless tobacco] and other smoke-free options like vapes and nicotine pouches, a nation where 49% of males used to smoke regularly has nearly eradicated this scourge. Compared to their European counterparts, Swedes have far lower rates of cancer incidence and mortality, therefore they are benefiting from improved health. Now Quit Like Sweden will spread this word around the world, utilizing knowledge and encouraging cooperation amongst interested parties to assist nations in duplicating the Swedish Experience. Methodology: Combination of Tobacco Control With Harm Minimization ~ A Very Powerful Initiative Towards Tobacco-Free Surrounding ~  (Source: Google Images)  The Swedish model combines recommendations in the WHO Framework Convention for Tobacco Control (FCTC), including reducing the supply and demand of tobacco and banning smoking in certain places, but it adds an important element: accepting that smoke-free products – such as vapes and oral pouches – are less harmful alternatives to traditional cigarettes. “For adult smokers, switching to non-combustible alternatives is highly recommended,” said AHRA president Dr. Kgosi Letlape. “Where governments have allowed these alternatives into their environment, the use of combustibles has come down and health benefits have been derived. “What should not be allowed is for people to continue lying that non-combustibles have no health benefits for adult smokers.” Certain Statistics Signifies Public Health Benefits for Individuals and Society ~ “Some people do need the kick that nicotine gives. Harm reduction products are giving that without the danger to their health.” The benefits of Sweden’s strategy are remarkable. The country’s smoking rates just 15 years ago were more than 150% higher than they are today. It now has the lowest percentage of tobacco-related diseases in the EU and a 41% lower incidence of cancer than other European countries.  A Few of the Statistical Report’s Findings and Recommendations for Use in Additional Nations ~ Acknowledge that using smoke-free goods is far less dangerous than smoking. Urge smokers to replace their smokes with less dangerous options. Give information based on facts. Tobacco goods don't come without any risks. For instance, e-cigarettes are 95% less dangerous than traditional cigarettes. A smoker should convert from traditional cigarettes to electronic cigarettes, notwithstanding the risks involved. Create regulations that will facilitate the availability of smokeless substitutes for cigarettes. For instance, differentiating tariffs incentivize smokers to convert from cigarettes to less dangerous options. Conclusion Regarding India's Future Prospects ~ Approximately one-third of the 267 million tobacco consumers in India are smokers. The other two-thirds use products made of smokeless tobacco, which is significantly more harmful than snus. The WHO has been recommending new, significantly less harmful tobacco and nicotine alternatives that don't burn tobacco in the same way that they did for snus twenty years ago. The WHO recommends that governments prohibit, regulate, and tax all tobacco products equally, based on the same health hazards, in the materials prepared for the 10th Conference of the Parties (COP10) to the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). This is true even though scientists agree that burning tobacco causes most of the negative effects of smoking—not the tobacco or nicotine itself. In essence, they're telling smokers who refuse to give up that it would be better for them to keep smoking. Thanks to smokers having an alternative to cigarettes, smoking rates have dropped outside Sweden, setting new records in this regard. Unprecedented drops in smoking rates have been observed in Norway, the UK, New Zealand, and Japan as safer substitutes for dangerous cigarettes have replaced them. The WHO only has to follow research when it comes to smoking; there's no need to reinvent the wheel. Users of tobacco products have a right to enhance their health by having access to nicotine-supplying choices with far lower health risks.     

22 Apr 2024
Global News

Archives