#indian jobs forum

[eyeofnewtblog]

Just had a really weird job interview that actually made me think about my childhood…(I said I was independent and resourceful and was asked to provide examples)

My dad bought me my first car, but as soon as I had my drivers license, he told me I was grounded until I knew how to change a tire and change my own oil. I was grounded for about a week. The only help he gave me was showing me where the owners manual was and a few forums about my specific model of car.

My dad, while I was getting my permit to drive, required that I drive him up to the local Indian reservation for casino night (he would keep $150 in his right pocket and as soon he was out he would leave, he kept the winnings in his left pocket and as soon as he was $300 up we would leave) also he tried to teach his most mathematicalally challenged child how to count cards at black jack? Not a successful enterprise. I barely passed high school chemistry.

When I was twelve there was a cross continent moving situation that required my dad and I to move ahead of my mom and middle sister (this is the time he lit the stove on fire from trying to fry bacon…) after the stove incident, he dug out the recipe cards his mother had made for my mom when they got married, shoved them at me, along with the cordless 1990’s phone and said “I’ve dialed your Aunt Rock, (his older sister) Daddy wants biscuits and gravy, make her walk you through it.”

That’s how I learned to cook; having my aunt on speed dial and I would tell her what was in the cabinets, she would make a list for me to give to dad, and then she would walk me through the recipe. As I cooked it.

As a teenager, my dad knew that I was capable of cooking exactly what he wanted (IE exactly what his mom and big sis cooked while he was growing up) and as an adult I’ve had to actually learn to enjoy cooking as an actual experience and process and not just “what I was told”

When I was 21 my dad spent about $700 on brand new parts for a car I owned that was falling apart…I spent my 21st birthday drinking beer on my dad’s driveway tearing apart my van to replace rotors and brakes, while my boyfriend at the time and dad sat back and did nothing while calling me a great little grease monkey.

Honestly, I’m still not sure if I’m proud or humiliated by that, but the grease monkey comment came from the bf and he didn’t last much longer…

I don’t know. Obviously I didn’t make myself quite this vulnerable when I was in the actual interview, but it feels good to be vulnerable after the fact?

I just feel like my dad gave me a lot of tools to figure shit out for myself, and being resourceful is actually a really great quality. Feeling? Idk.

Being resourceful gives you independence.

Because any problems that come up? There’s either a YouTube tutorial, a blog, or SOMETHING available as a resource. And if you’re out of internet service???? There’s literally a book in your glove compartment somewhere telling you what to do.

[sorcerous-caress]

Hell yeah I'm back, crushed my exams, now I have more time to think about everyone's favorite loser elf 💜💜

Your post a couple days back about posting homemade porn to the xhuman forum really got me thinking

What if one day you showed up at your loser elf's house in traditional elvish clothing?

You shrug and casually mention that you bought it at a market the other day because it reminded you of him, but he's only barely registering your words.

His eyes rake over your body from head to toe and then back up again, staring unashamed at how the light, airy fabric dances around your arms and legs. He can't stop staring at how perfectly the garment hugs your body, and since humans are more supple and rounded than elves, the fabric bunches up just so on your hips, accentuating your curves and making heat rise to his face, the tips of his ears going red as you notice the visible tent in his pants.

You smile devilishly at him as you lead him towards his bed, all the while he's thinking about how the organic fabrics you're wearing would be very delicate and so easy to tear through.

You're fully aware of what seeing you in his traditional clothing would do to him, so of course you prepared accordingly. He's in for a lucky surprise when he finally gets your overclothes off to find that you picked up some elvish-inspired lingerie at the market as well.

(somewhat inspired by my realization while dressing up to go to an Indian holiday party, when I noticed that a salwar kameez and dupatta kinda reminded me of what I'd imagine elvish clothing to look like)

Good job on finishing your exams, please make sure to rest.

I really like the idea of human reader trying to learn more about elf culture for their cute loser high elf

And yes, I imagine elvish clothes to be inspired by South Asian, Middle Eastern, and anciest Greek clothes.

Instead of reader buying it randomly, what if you've put research into it? Read about elf culture and found the perfect attire to wear.

Maybe it's something only newly wedded spouces wear for each other, or maybe it is a honeymoon phase kind of outfit. Elvish clothes are airy by nature, but this one you've found is more head-turning than the rest.

Almost like it was made out of large flower petals that hug your body just right with their vibrant colours. Wrapping your hips with two petals that conjoin in the middle, their pointy tips barely covering the insides of your thighs. Each petal trailing up your body and leaving small windows of bare flesh, the outfit is on the shorter side with no shoulders or neck, just going from your hips to your chest in a colourful chain of petals.

Or maybe a translucent outfit that shimmers and brims with life magic, a dark hue that matches the night sky. Various stars in shapes and sizes swimming on the print and gently swaying from place to place with every step you take. Your skin and curves are extremely visible underneath it. It's made out of one large and very long cloth that you have to wrap around yourself to from multiple layers and give it a shape. The material is so thin that the outfit never gets thicker than human clothes no matter how many you layer.

Or it's a long pure white silk with gold leaves trim, much like an outfit a greek god would wear. The silk is akin to a second skin as even the shape of your bare stomach is visible from underneath it. There's an almost invisible pattern wooven into the silk with the occasional glimmering sparks.

Whichever it was, one thing was clear when your outfit finally arrived. It's that this was never made for a human like body.

It's your size but longer than usual, it's too tight in certain places. You can't even wear anything underneath it because it wouldn't fit then. The shape of your chest is fully on display, the way the supposed airy outfit completely hugs your figure like a glove.

Your hips and thighs being squeezed so deliciously by the fabric. The material feeling almost strange on top of a human's soft skin, elves generally have tighter skin that's not as sensitive as the humans.

How each outfit is made out of various pieces and parts you have to put together to complete the picture. Unlike humanity's preference for compact clothes that are easy to wear or come as whole pieces, elves prefer complexity and a single shirt can have up to 13 steps to put on.

There aren't any buttons or seams or zippers. It's whole pieces that are held together by either magic or jewellery. Everything from the top of your head to your ankles has a specific piece that is important to complete the outfit.

It takes a lot of effort and after so many different youtube tutorials, mostly in elvish which you couldn't understand and had to relay on visuals only, you get the hand of it.

Since it was a surprise, you decline his offer to pick you up when you send him a message saying you're coming over. Walking through the street and getting curious and confused looks from other humans on your outfit.

You passed by a couple of elves that did a doube take when they saw you, blatantly staring at your short ears then your clothes. They looked like they wanted to say something to you, one of them even walked up to you and opened their mouth.

But nothing came out, they just turned around and went back to their friend. Completely red in the face as they kept stealing glances at you while whispering in elvish to each other.

After finally making it and opening the front door with the spare key he gave you, you step inside.

Expecting you, he calls out your name with clear excitement in his voice before clearing his throat and trying to attempting to mask his excitement as he makes his way to you.

The second his eyes register what you're wearing, his mind short circuits. His eyes have to blink a couple of times as if it's a trick of the light or an illusion, complete disbelief at the fact you're actually real and standing in his doorway in these clothes.

Just like the elves from before, his mouth opens but nothing comes out.

Then he's immediately picking you up and pinning you to the door. Lips hungrily kissing yours as desperate whimpers escape him.

It's his feelings are too much for his body to handle, his hands keep switching form place to place as he can't decide where to touch you first, where to feel and grope you.

His fingers are shaking, his eyes still looking at you with disbelief as his lips refuse to let up, as if he'll run out of air without the taste of your mouth.

You feel his hardness against you. He barely pays it any attention as he continues to admire your body. Marvelling at the way the clothes cling to your skin, at the various jewellery and elven designs, on you, a human.

If only a man can die from happiness, then he'll die happily knowing your current image was the last thing he has seen.

Do you even understand the effect of your outfit on him, little human? Do you even know what it represents? For all you know, you could've been walking outside with the equivalent of elven lingerie or a nightie.

He's calling you various endearing names in his original tongue, from endearing titles to ones exclusive to married souls. He seems in a haze as he urges you towards the bedroom, eyes pleading and knees weak as he struggles to switch betwern kissing you and pulling away to talk.

[balkanradfem]

(I just realised how long this is after typing it out. my bad, i have a habit of yapping too much 😭. Feel free to ignore this if you want. I love your posts btw i learn a lot thanks to you)

radfems seem to be more successful in korea compared to other regions. they are good at organising and have done public protests where they absolutely don’t hold back, Here’s some footage from a korean feminist protest: https://youtu.be/O4vWycy0sDI?si=2KmBUQ7Jpp9prt_q

The way they don’t care about what people think and just start all out screaming at men is refreshing. They have many radfem forums and groups and the discussions in these websites is so much more practical than what I’ve seen here.

They are very focused on self improvement and achieving economic, political and social success compared to radblr which is more communist and promotes living in a little wooden cabin in the woods with some other women to be more eco friendly. Nothing against communism i just think while we’re already living in a capitalist society promoting communism in female spaces will just lead to women becoming poorer and oppressed further by rich men. And nothing wrong with being eco friendly either but I don’t think women living in a hut will do anything when men still at large continue to destroy the world. 

the main website korean women use to organise is called womad. It’s so much better than any feminist forum I’ve ever seen. It’s anonymous and usernames are automatically generated and change every hour or so so that no one can be recognized anywhere. The police have been trying to crackdown on them because of extreme misandry for a long time but all attempts have failed. 

From reading their posts it seems almost all of them have a good understanding of politics and economics. Their discussions are productive and they don’t have any infighting like radblr and they don’t let any other social issue distract them from the real enemy which is men. What do you think could be the reason behind this? Are korean women just intellectually superior? I personally feel like korean women have the highest iq of all women. I look up to them a lot and womad has taught me a lot.

They even have a women’s party in korea and they won around 200,000 votes which isn’t a lot but it’s still a huge achievement. Check out womensparty.kr 

I wish indian women would catch up. I’m sick of indian moids taking up every inch of space in this country. Every street in india is filled with moids, it’s so dystopian there are no women in sight. One would think only men live here. This is also the reason there’s so much fucking trash in the streets. These overgrown manchildren who have their mommys clean up after them go out and throw trash wherever they see fit and do not bother cleaning because that’s a woman’s job. Women can’t go out to exercise because every public space is occupied by men. I’m so so sick of them. 

Power to the korean women! I'm glad you're finding guidance and inspiration in the feminism they lead and that they're so successful, I admire it as well!

I'm standing by indian women and hope they manage to gain freedom! And until they do, we need to prop them up and also be on their side. Only males are our enemies :)

[mariacallous]

Five years since Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its autonomous status, the central government’s iron-fisted approach to the region has left it more vulnerable to regional and geopolitical threats.

While Kashmir Valley, which has withstood the brunt of armed insurgency since 1989, continues to simmer with militancy-related violence, the theater of terrorism has now extended into the otherwise peaceful province of Jammu. Since 2019, at least 262 soldiers and 171 civilians have died in more than 690 incidents, including the February 2019 Pulwama terrorist attack. The unsustainable and disproportionate loss of lives underscores the risks to both regional stability and India’s national security.

In 2019, the Modi government revoked Article 370 of the Indian constitution, which granted the state of Jammu and Kashmir its special status, annihilating the contested region’s symbolic autonomy. Concurrently, the central government also imposed an indefinite curfew in the region and used internet shutdowns and arrests to control and suppress the local population. The result was a transformed landscape. Already scarred by militarization, Kashmir became enmeshed in barbed wire.

This undemocratic exercise, though later stamped and endorsed by India’s Supreme Court, has since spurred further legal changes. For example, the local population no longer has access to exclusive protections that previously allowed only permanent residents of Jammu and Kashmir to apply for government jobs and buy property in the state.

In March 2020, the government repealed 12 and amended 14 land-related laws, introducing a clause that paved the way for a development authority to confiscate land and another that allowed high-ranking army officials to declare a local area as strategically important.

Local residents are appalled at the ease with which government agencies can now seize both residential and agricultural lands in the name of development and security—enabling mass evictions and the bulldozing of houses that are disproportionately affecting Muslim communities and small landowners.

Meanwhile, the ecological fallout from introducing massive road and railway networks, coupled with the addition of mega hydroelectricity projects, is polluting riverbeds and causing villages to sink. Since 2019, there has been a lack of local representation which could act as a buffer against massive development projects, most of which now fall under New Delhi’s governance. Meanwhile, the region’s unemployment rate, as of 2023, remains high at above 18 percent, as compared to the national average of 8 percent.

Over the last few years, the Modi government has also squashed dissent in the region by redirecting the military to maintain surveillance and control of the civilian population. According to the Forum for Human Rights in Jammu and Kashmir, over 2,700 people were arrested in the region between 2020 and 2023 under India’s contentious Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Public Safety Act. Those arrested include journalists like Fahad Shah and Sajad Gul, human rights defenders like Khurram Pervez, and prominent lawyers like Mian Qayoom and Nazir Ronga.

Modi’s repressive policies have deepened the trust deficit between Kashmiris and the Indian government. The top-down administration has further sidelined local bureaucrats and police officers, further widening the gap between the central government and local ground realities.

All of this has not only pushed the local population into distress, but also jeopardized India’s already fragile relations with its two nuclear neighbors, Pakistan and China.

The Kashmir conflict, rooted in the 1947 partition of India, has led to three major wars and several military skirmishes between India, Pakistan, and China. And though the region has always been contentious—India controls more than half of the total land, while Pakistan controls 30 percent, and China holds the remaining 15 percent in the northeast region near Ladakh—Modi’s aggressive handling has further provoked its neighbors.

Following the revocation of Article 370, the region was split into two separate union territories—Jammu and Kashmir forming one and Ladakh forming another, with both falling under the central government’s control.

This redrawing of the region’s internal borders, which signaled New Delhi’s assertions of reclaiming the Chinese-occupied territory near Ladakh—as well as India’s increasing tilt towards the United States—resulted in a deadly clash between India and China in 2020 and another one in 2022. Despite diplomatic efforts to resolve tensions over the disputed Himalayan border, New Delhi has accused Beijing of carrying out “inch by inch” land grabs in Ladakh since 2020.

Meanwhile, Pakistan-administered Kashmir has been rocked by mass protests of its own this year, owing to the country’s political and economic crisis, exacerbated in part by the abrogation of Article 370. Those living in Pakistan-administered Kashmir fear that Pakistan may similarly try to dilute the autonomy of the region.

With refugees flooding in from Afghanistan on its west amidst Imran Khan’s standoff with the Pakistani Army, Islamabad has been on edge and looking for diversionary tactics. The deepening of Pakistani-Chinese relations, including military ties, has contributed to a volatile mix.

But Kashmir’s vulnerability has worsened partly because of India’s own tactical blunders, too. The last decade witnessed a spurt in home-grown militancy, but since 2019 the landscape has been dominated by well-trained militants from across the Pakistani border who have access to sophisticated weapons and technology.

Indian security forces, including paramilitaries and the local police, have turned a blind eye to these emerging threats, especially in the twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch along the border with Pakistan. It is in this area that the impact of terror attacks has been most felt.

The region is home to the nomadic Gujjar-Bakerwal communities and the ethnolinguistic Paharis. These groups are parts of divided families straddling the India-Pakistan border, and this shared cultural linkage between the Indian and Pakistani sides has been weaponized in the past by intelligence networks of both countries.

The Indian armed forces have historically relied on the Gujjar-Bakerwal communities for intelligence gathering in part because of their nomadic lives and deep knowledge of the region’s topography. However, since 2019, the evictions of nomads from forest lands, following the amendment of several land-related laws, as well as affirmative actions for Paharis, a rival ethnic group, have led to the disenchantment of the Gujjar-Bakerwals—and an eventual loss of traditional intelligence assets for India.

Another blunder has been the redeployment of troops from Jammu to the border with China in the northeast, following China’s incursions in Ladakh’s Galwan Valley in 2020. This has left Jammu dangerously exposed to militants who have been infiltrating the region from across the line of control on the western side and carrying out their operations with a fair degree of success.

In 2024 alone, Jammu has witnessed numerous attacks which have resulted in the deaths of 16 soldiers and 12 civilians. In June, for example, the region experienced one of its deadliest attacks when militants opened fire on a bus carrying Hindu pilgrims, killing nine and injuring over 30.

Kashmir’s internal politics has the potential to spill over and push the region into disaster. While India has made some significant strides in international diplomacy under Modi, it tends to neglect the neighborhood where the risks to India’s national security remain the highest. Its diplomatic engagement with China comes in fits and starts but diplomacy with Pakistan remains nonexistent, despite the resumption of a ceasefire in 2021. And while India considers the removal of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status an internal matter, Pakistan sees it as a provocation. All in all, there is a dangerous lack of engagement between the two nuclear rivals in South Asia.

In theory, the ongoing regional elections in Jammu and Kashmir provide a glimmer of opportunity for the people to choose their own local government for the first time in a decade. However, irrespective of who wins the elections, the local leaders will lack the power to enact meaningful change, given that the region remains under the control of New Delhi following its demotion from a state to two union territories.

For instance, Ladakh does not have a legislative assembly, and while Jammu and Kashmir have an elected assembly, the real powers are vested in the hands of a governor, who was appointed to lead the region by the Modi-led central government. As recently as July, the Indian government ruled to further expand the governor’s oversight powers, delivering a blow to local politicians and voters.

Much more needs to be done to change the status quo. Though it remains unlikely, New Delhi must consider meaningful solutions that could assuage some of the political wounds inflicted by the complete erosion of Jammu and Kashmir’s autonomy, including, for example, the restoration of statehood to the region. In order to win back the trust of Kashmiris, the Indian government must reinstate civil liberties and deliver on its promise to provide economic development and jobs.

To improve the region’s safety, Indian agencies must acknowledge their security lapses and repair their broken intelligence networks. And while the Indian security forces must not lower their guard against terrorist activities, terrorism should not be proffered as an excuse when it comes to the normalization of relations in the neighborhood.

Neither Pakistan, nor India can afford the war which is looming over their heads. Diplomatic negotiations, including over Kashmir, must begin with a sense of urgency.

[barstoolblues]

its insane actually how band fans refuse to give robbie credit for anything like. and also the racism! saw a post like “his early influence was spending time on an indian reservation” um so you mean.... learning oral histories from his family.... or another that claimed all his songwriting was inspired by levons family stories of the south like what are you stupid. or like somehow hes responsible for every members death according to some of these people like i deadass read someone say “he could’ve given danko a job but instead watched him work construction til he died” like WHAT 😭 and people are like why did he pretend to sing into the mic.... um because his mic was on and he was singing??? idk. of course middle aged men on rock forums are going to be the most annoying bitches on the planet but its a whole nother level. wait just read this

[beardedmrbean]

Police in the Indian capital, Delhi, have raided the homes of prominent journalists and authors in connection with an investigation into the funding of news website NewsClick.

NewsClick's founder Prabir Purkayastha and a colleague were arrested. Police also seized laptops and mobile phones.

Officials are reportedly investigating allegations that NewsClick got illegal funds from China - a charge it denies.

Critics say the move is an intentional attack on press freedom.

Started in 2009, NewsClick is an independent news and current affairs website known to be critical of the government. In 2021, it was raided by tax authorities on allegations of breaking India's foreign direct investment rules.

The co-ordinated raids at 30 locations on Tuesday are some of the largest and most extensive on India's media in recent years. Police later confirmed they had arrested Mr Purkayastha and Amit Chakravarty, the website's head of human resources.

"A total of 37 male suspects have been questioned at premises, nine female suspects have been questioned at their respective places of stay and digital devices, documents etc have been seized/collected for examination," a police statement said.

Opposition leaders accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government of a "fresh attack on the media". But Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur said investigative agencies were merely doing their job.

How did the raids happen?

Among those also questioned were journalists Abhisar Sharma, Paranjoy Guha Thakurta, Aunindyo Chakravarty, Urmilesh, Bhasha Singh, popular satirist Sanjay Rajoura and historian Sohail Hashmi. Some were taken to police stations.

Searches were also carried out at the website's office in Delhi, news agency ANI reported.

In Mumbai, activist Teesta Setalvad's house was also searched. Ms Setalvad has long fought for victims of the deadly 2002 riots in Gujarat state and has written articles critical of the government for NewsClick.

A source close to Mr Purkayastha told the BBC that more than 15 policemen arrived at the editor's home at 06:30 local time (01:00 GMT).

"They did not produce any warrants or paperwork, questioned him for several hours and took away all the electronic devices they found at home," they said. Later, news agencies showed him being taken away by the police in a vehicle.

Mr Rajoura's lawyer, Ilin Saraswat, said the comedian was raided at the same time and that police took away his laptop, his two phones, some DVDs of his old work and some documents.

"The police said that Mr Rajoura is not named in the current investigation, but since he has worked with the website, he will be interrogated. We have not been provided a copy of the police complaint," he added.

BBC India offices searched by income tax officials

Indian tax authorities raid critical media outlets

India top court frees Muslim comic on bail

According to reports, the raids are in connection with a case registered against NewsClick in August after a New York Times report alleged that the website had received funds from an American millionaire to spread "Chinese propaganda".

It claimed that Neville Roy Singham worked closely with the "Chinese government media machine" and used his network of non-profit groups and shell companies to "finance its propaganda worldwide".

A case was reportedly registered against the website under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, or UAPA, a draconian anti-terror law that makes it nearly impossible to get bail. NewsClick has rejected all the charges as false.

Who was raided?

All the people who were raided have been associated with NewsClick - some are employees, while others have worked on freelance projects.

Prabir Purkayastha, its founder and editor-in-chief, is the author of a number of books and a founding member of the Delhi Science Forum. During the 1975 Emergency - when civil liberties were suspended - he was jailed along with several opposition politicians.

Bhasha Singh is an activist and journalist who has reported extensively on manual scavenging and farmers' suicides. She has accused the government of being anti-women and on Monday appeared in a NewsClick video expressing concern over the increasing trend of members of the governing BJP praising the man who assassinated India's independence leader Mahatma Gandhi.

Abhisar Sharma is a prominent video journalist known for his critical views of the government. He worked for BBC Hindi before moving to work at the NDTV news channel. One of his last videos covered widespread protests by government employees against a new pension scheme.

Paranjoy Guha Thakurta, writer, journalist and filmmaker, is best known for his investigations into billionaire tycoon Gautam Adani and is facing several defamation suits filed by the industrialist. Earlier this year, he was mentioned in a report by Hindenburg Research which alleged that companies owned by Mr Adani had engaged in decades of "brazen" stock manipulation and accounting fraud - allegations denied by the industrialist who is perceived as being close to PM Modi.

[xtruss]

Kashmir, Five Years On

Fascist, Hindu Extremist, The Butcher of Gujrat And The World’s Most Wanted Criminal Modi’s Iron-Fisted Approach To The Disputed Region Has Left It More Vulnerable To Local And Geopolitical Threats.

— By Anuradha Bhasin | September 19, 2024

Indian security personnel patrol along a street in Srinagar, in Jammu and Kashmir, on August 15, 2024. Tauseef Mustafa/AFP Via Getty Images

Five years since The Fascist, Hindu Extremist, The Butcher of Gujrat and The World’s Most Wanted Criminal Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its autonomous status, the central government’s iron-fisted approach to the region has left it more vulnerable to regional and geopolitical threats.

While Kashmir Valley, which has withstood the brunt of armed insurgency since 1989, continues to simmer with militancy-related violence, the theater of terrorism has now extended into the otherwise peaceful province of Jammu. Since 2019, at least 262 soldiers and 171 civilians have died in more than 690 incidents, including the February 2019 Pulwama terrorist attack. The unsustainable and disproportionate loss of lives underscores the risks to both regional stability and India’s national security.

In 2019, the Modi government revoked Article 370 of the Indian constitution, which granted the state of Jammu and Kashmir its special status, annihilating the contested region’s symbolic autonomy. Concurrently, the central government also imposed an indefinite curfew in the region and used internet shutdowns and arrests to control and suppress the local population. The result was a transformed landscape. Already scarred by militarization, Kashmir became enmeshed in barbed wire.

This undemocratic exercise, though later stamped and endorsed by India’s Supreme Court, has since spurred further legal changes. For example, the local population no longer has access to exclusive protections that previously allowed only permanent residents of Jammu and Kashmir to apply for government jobs and buy property in the state.

In March 2020, the government repealed 12 and amended 14 land-related laws, introducing a clause that paved the way for a development authority to confiscate land and another that allowed high-ranking army officials to declare a local area as strategically important.

Local residents are appalled at the ease with which government agencies can now seize both residential and agricultural lands in the name of development and security—enabling mass evictions and the bulldozing of houses that are disproportionately affecting Muslim communities and small landowners.

Meanwhile, the ecological fallout from introducing massive road and railway networks, coupled with the addition of mega hydroelectricity projects, is polluting riverbeds and causing villages to sink. Since 2019, there has been a lack of local representation which could act as a buffer against massive development projects, most of which now fall under New Delhi’s governance. Meanwhile, the region’s unemployment rate, as of 2023, remains high at above 18 percent, as compared to the national average of 8 percent.

Over the last few years, the Modi government has also squashed dissent in the region by redirecting the military to maintain surveillance and control of the civilian population. According to the Forum for Human Rights in Jammu and Kashmir, over 2,700 people were arrested in the region between 2020 and 2023 under India’s contentious Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Public Safety Act. Those arrested include journalists like Fahad Shah and Sajad Gul, human rights defenders like Khurram Pervez, and prominent lawyers like Mian Qayoom and Nazir Ronga.

Modi’s repressive policies have deepened the trust deficit between Kashmiris and the Indian government. The top-down administration has further sidelined local bureaucrats and police officers, further widening the gap between the central government and local ground realities.

All of this has not only pushed the local population into distress, but also jeopardized India’s already fragile relations with its two nuclear neighbors, Pakistan and China.

The Kashmir Conflict, rooted in the 1947 partition of India, has led to three major wars and several military skirmishes between India, Pakistan, and China. And though the region has always been contentious—India controls more than half of the total land, while Pakistan controls 30 percent, and China holds the remaining 15 percent in the northeast region near Ladakh—Modi’s aggressive handling has further provoked its neighbors.

Following the revocation of Article 370, the region was split into two separate union territories—Jammu and Kashmir forming one and Ladakh forming another, with both falling under the central government’s control.

This redrawing of the region’s internal borders, which signaled New Delhi’s assertions of reclaiming the Chinese-occupied territory near Ladakh—as well as India’s increasing tilt towards the United States—resulted in a deadly clash between India and China in 2020 and another one in 2022. Despite diplomatic efforts to resolve tensions over the disputed Himalayan border, New Delhi has accused Beijing of carrying out “inch by inch” land grabs in Ladakh since 2020.

Meanwhile, Pakistan-administered Kashmir has been rocked by mass protests of its own this year, owing to the country’s political and economic crisis, exacerbated in part by the abrogation of Article 370. Those living in Pakistan-administered Kashmir fear that Pakistan may similarly try to dilute the autonomy of the region.

With refugees flooding in from Afghanistan on its west amidst Imran Khan’s standoff with the Pakistani Army, Islamabad has been on edge and looking for diversionary tactics. The deepening of Pakistani-Chinese relations, including military ties, has contributed to a volatile mix.

But Kashmir’s vulnerability has worsened partly because of India’s own tactical blunders, too. The last decade witnessed a spurt in home-grown militancy, but since 2019 the landscape has been dominated by well-trained militants from across the Pakistani border who have access to sophisticated weapons and technology.

Indian security forces, including paramilitaries and the local police, have turned a blind eye to these emerging threats, especially in the twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch along the border with Pakistan. It is in this area that the impact of terror attacks has been most felt.

The region is home to the nomadic Gujjar-Bakerwal communities and the ethnolinguistic Paharis. These groups are parts of divided families straddling the India-Pakistan border, and this shared cultural linkage between the Indian and Pakistani sides has been weaponized in the past by intelligence networks of both countries.

The Indian armed forces have historically relied on the Gujjar-Bakerwal communities for intelligence gathering in part because of their nomadic lives and deep knowledge of the region’s topography. However, since 2019, the evictions of nomads from forest lands, following the amendment of several land-related laws, as well as affirmative actions for Paharis, a rival ethnic group, have led to the disenchantment of the Gujjar-Bakerwals—and an eventual loss of traditional intelligence assets for India.

Another blunder has been the redeployment of troops from Jammu to the border with China in the northeast, following China’s incursions in Ladakh’s Galwan Valley in 2020. This has left Jammu dangerously exposed to militants who have been infiltrating the region from across the line of control on the western side and carrying out their operations with a fair degree of success.

In 2024 alone, Jammu has witnessed numerous attacks which have resulted in the deaths of 16 soldiers and 12 civilians. In June, for example, the region experienced one of its deadliest attacks when militants opened fire on a bus carrying Hindu pilgrims, killing nine and injuring over 30.

Kashmir’s internal politics has the potential to spill over and push the region into disaster. While India has made some significant strides in international diplomacy under Modi, it tends to neglect the neighborhood where the risks to India’s national security remain the highest. Its diplomatic engagement with China comes in fits and starts but diplomacy with Pakistan remains nonexistent, despite the resumption of a ceasefire in 2021. And while India considers the removal of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status an internal matter, Pakistan sees it as a provocation. All in all, there is a dangerous lack of engagement between the two nuclear rivals in South Asia.

In Theory, the ongoing regional elections in Jammu and Kashmir provide a glimmer of opportunity for the people to choose their own local government for the first time in a decade. However, irrespective of who wins the elections, the local leaders will lack the power to enact meaningful change, given that the region remains under the control of New Delhi following its demotion from a state to two union territories.

For instance, Ladakh does not have a legislative assembly, and while Jammu and Kashmir have an elected assembly, the real powers are vested in the hands of a governor, who was appointed to lead the region by the Modi-led central government. As recently as July, the Indian government ruled to further expand the governor’s oversight powers, delivering a blow to local politicians and voters.

Much more needs to be done to change the status quo. Though it remains unlikely, New Delhi must consider meaningful solutions that could assuage some of the political wounds inflicted by the complete erosion of Jammu and Kashmir’s autonomy, including, for example, the restoration of statehood to the region. In order to win back the trust of Kashmiris, the Indian government must reinstate civil liberties and deliver on its promise to provide economic development and jobs.

To improve the region’s safety, Indian agencies must acknowledge their security lapses and repair their broken intelligence networks. And while the Indian security forces must not lower their guard against terrorist activities, terrorism should not be proffered as an excuse when it comes to the normalization of relations in the neighborhood.

Neither Pakistan, nor India can afford the war which is looming over their heads. Diplomatic negotiations, including over Kashmir, must begin with a sense of urgency.

— Anuradha Bhasin, Managing Editor of Kashmir Times and Author of A Dismantled State: The Untold Story of Kashmir After 370. (Argument:

An Expert's Point of View on a Current Event.)

[online-vidyaa14]

Lovely Professional University Online | LPU Online – Online Vidya

In today’s fast-paced world, the demand for flexible and accessible education has surged, making online learning a crucial component of modern education. Lovely Professional University (LPU) has embraced this shift by offering comprehensive online programs designed to cater to the needs of students and working professionals alike. In this blog, presented by Online Vidya, we’ll explore the various aspects of LPU Online and why it stands out as a top choice for distance education.

About Lovely Professional University (LPU)

Lovely Professional University Online, located in Punjab, India, is one of the largest private universities in the country. Known for its diverse range of programs and state-of-the-art infrastructure, LPU has consistently ranked among the top universities in India. With a strong emphasis on innovation, global exposure, and academic excellence, LPU has become a preferred destination for students from all over the world.

Key Features of LPU Online

Flexible Learning: LPU Online provides students with the flexibility to learn at their own pace. The courses are designed to be self-paced, allowing students to balance their studies with work or other commitments.

Industry-Relevant Curriculum: The curriculum at LPU Online is regularly updated to meet industry standards. This ensures that students are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills required in their respective fields.

Interactive Learning Resources: LPU Online offers a range of interactive learning resources, including video lectures, e-books, quizzes, and discussion forums. These resources make learning engaging and help students grasp complex concepts with ease.

Global Exposure: LPU Online provides students with opportunities to interact with peers and faculty from around the world. This global exposure helps in broadening their perspectives and understanding of different cultures.

Supportive Learning Environment: LPU Online ensures that students have access to academic support through dedicated faculty, online mentors, and a responsive student support team.

Affordable Education: LPU Online offers high-quality education at an affordable cost. The university provides various financial aid options, including scholarships, to ensure that education is accessible to all.

Programs Offered by LPU Online

LPU Online offers a diverse range of programs that cater to the needs of different learners. Some of the popular programs include:

MBA (Master of Business Administration)

MCA (Master of Computer Applications)

BCA (Bachelor of Computer Applications)

BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration)

MA (Master of Arts)

M.Com (Master of Commerce)

B.Com (Bachelor of Commerce)

These programs are designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to excel in their careers.

Why Choose LPU Online?

Accreditation and Recognition: LPU is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and is a member of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU). This ensures that the degrees offered by LPU Online are recognized globally.

Career Support: LPU Online offers career support services, including resume building, interview preparation, and job placement assistance. This helps students to seamlessly transition from education to employment.

Networking Opportunities: LPU Online provides students with opportunities to network with alumni, industry experts, and peers. This networking can be invaluable in building a successful career.

Continuous Learning: LPU Online encourages continuous learning through its vast repository of online courses, webinars, and workshops. This helps students stay updated with the latest trends and developments in their fields.

Conclusion

LPU Online is a perfect blend of quality education, flexibility, and global exposure. It empowers students to pursue their academic goals without compromising on their personal and professional commitments. Whether you are a fresh graduate looking to enhance your skills or a working professional aiming for career advancement, LPU Online offers a range of programs that can help you achieve your objectives.

Visit here to learn more about our LPU Online: https://www.onlinevidyaa.com/university/lovely-professional-university-online

[globalnextgenpro]

Navigating the Doctor & Nurse Visa UK Process in Chandigarh: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re a healthcare professional in Chandigarh looking to broaden your horizons in the United Kingdom, the Doctor & Nurse Visa UK process can seem a bit daunting at first. However, with the right information and guidance, you can smoothly navigate the journey from application to relocation. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make the process as straightforward as possible.

Understanding the Doctor & Nurse Visa UK

The UK is renowned for its world-class healthcare system, and it’s no surprise that many international medical professionals aspire to work there. The UK government offers specific visa routes for doctors and nurses through the Health and Care Worker Visa. This visa is designed to attract skilled healthcare professionals from around the globe to fill crucial roles in the NHS and other healthcare sectors.

Key Requirements for the Health and Care Worker Visa

To qualify for the Health and Care Worker Visa, applicants must meet several key requirements:

Sponsorship: You must have a job offer from a UK employer who holds a valid sponsorship license. This employer will provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which is essential for your visa application.

Job Role and Salary: The position you’re applying for must be on the list of eligible occupations and meet the minimum salary requirements. For doctors and nurses, this typically means a salary that is at least £25,600 per year or the ‘going rate’ for the job, whichever is higher.

English Language Proficiency: You need to demonstrate a good command of English. This can be achieved by passing an approved English language test or by having a degree taught in English.

Financial Requirement: You must show that you have enough money to support yourself when you arrive in the UK. This is usually demonstrated through bank statements or evidence of savings.

Criminal Record Certificate: Depending on the role and the specific visa requirements, you might need to provide a criminal record certificate from any country you’ve lived in for 12 months or more in the past ten years.

The Application Process

Secure a Job Offer: The first step is to secure a job offer from a UK-based healthcare provider. This is crucial as your employer will need to sponsor your visa application.

Get Your Certificate of Sponsorship: Once you have a job offer, your employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship. This document contains a unique reference number that you’ll need for your visa application.

Prepare Your Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including your Certificate of Sponsorship, proof of English proficiency, and evidence of your financial means.

Submit Your Application: You can apply online through the UK government’s official visa website. Be sure to complete the application form accurately and submit all required documents.

Attend a Visa Appointment: You may need to attend a visa application center to provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and a photograph.

Wait for a Decision: The processing time for the Health and Care Worker Visa can vary, so be patient while your application is reviewed.

Prepare for Relocation: Once your visa is approved, you can start planning your move to the UK. This includes arranging accommodation, understanding the local healthcare system, and familiarizing yourself with the UK’s cultural nuances.

Tips for a Smooth Transition

Seek Professional Guidance: Consider consulting with a migration advisor or visa specialist who can offer personalized advice and ensure that your application is complete and accurate.

Understand the Local Healthcare System: Familiarize yourself with the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) and the specific protocols and practices that may differ from those in India.

Connect with Other Professionals: Join online forums or local communities of Indian healthcare professionals in the UK. This can provide valuable support and networking opportunities.

Cultural Preparation: Embrace the cultural differences you might encounter in the UK. Being open to new experiences and understanding cultural nuances will help you settle in more easily.

Conclusion

Securing a Doctor & Nurse Visa for the UK from Chandigarh is a significant step in advancing your medical career and experiencing life in a new country. By understanding the visa requirements, following the application process carefully, and preparing for the transition, you can enhance your chances of a successful relocation. With the right preparation and support, you’ll be well on your way to starting a rewarding new chapter in the UK’s healthcare system. Safe travels and best of luck with your exciting journey ahead!

[dikshajainsworld]

 How Biofuel Manufacturers in India Are Driving Sustainable Change

India is at the forefront of the global shift towards renewable energy, and biofuels are playing a crucial role in this transformation. As the demand for sustainable energy sources grows, biofuel manufacturers in India are stepping up to meet these needs. Among them, Gangour Group is leading the charge, contributing significantly to the country’s green energy landscape. This article explores how biofuel manufacturers in India are driving sustainable change and the impact of their efforts on the environment and economy.

 1. Promoting Renewable Energy

Biofuel manufacturer in India are central to the nation’s renewable energy initiatives. By converting organic materials such as agricultural waste, non-edible oils, and other biomass into biofuels, these manufacturers provide an eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels. Gangour Group is a prime example of this innovation, using advanced technologies to produce biofuels that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on conventional energy sources.

 2. Supporting Rural Economies

The biofuel industry in India has a significant impact on rural economies. By sourcing raw materials like agricultural residues and non-edible oilseeds from rural areas, biofuel manufacturers create jobs and provide additional income for farmers. Gangour Group is actively involved in these efforts, working closely with rural communities to ensure a steady supply of sustainable feedstocks while empowering local farmers and contributing to rural development.

 3. Reducing Environmental Impact

One of the most important contributions of biofuel manufacturers in India is the reduction of environmental pollution. Biofuels produce fewer carbon emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels, helping to combat climate change. Gangour Group is committed to sustainability, implementing processes that minimize waste and optimize the use of natural resources. Their biofuel production methods are designed to have a lower environmental impact, contributing to a cleaner and healthier planet.

 4. Innovating for Efficiency

Innovation is key to the success of biofuel manufacturing. Leading biofuel manufacturer in India, like Gangour Group, are continuously investing in research and development to improve the efficiency of biofuel production. This includes exploring new feedstocks, enhancing processing techniques, and developing second-generation biofuels that offer even greater environmental benefits. These innovations not only increase the viability of biofuels as a sustainable energy source but also position India as a leader in renewable energy technology.

 5. Contributing to Energy Security

India’s growing energy needs make energy security a national priority. Biofuels offer a sustainable solution to this challenge by diversifying the country’s energy portfolio. Gangour Group and other biofuel manufacturers in India play a crucial role in reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels, thereby enhancing the country’s energy independence. By providing a stable and renewable source of energy, biofuels contribute to long-term energy security and economic stability.

 6. Aligning with Government Initiatives

The Indian government has introduced several policies and initiatives to promote the use of biofuels, such as the National Policy on Biofuels. Biofuel manufacturers in India are essential partners in achieving the goals set by these initiatives. Gangour Group aligns its operations with these policies, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and contributing to the government’s vision of a sustainable energy future.

 7. Educating and Raising Awareness

Beyond production, biofuel manufacturers in India are also involved in educating the public and raising awareness about the benefits of biofuels. Gangour Group actively participates in industry forums, conferences, and community outreach programs to promote the adoption of biofuels. By educating consumers and stakeholders, they help build a more informed and supportive environment for the growth of the biofuel industry.

 Conclusion

Biofuel manufacturers in India are driving sustainable change by promoting renewable energy, supporting rural economies, reducing environmental impact, and contributing to energy security. Gangour Group stands out as a leader in this sector, showcasing how innovation, sustainability, and community engagement can work together to create a greener future. As the world moves towards cleaner energy solutions, the contributions of biofuel manufacturers in India will continue to play a vital role in shaping a sustainable energy landscape for the country and the world.

[vajiraoandreddyiasinstitute52]

How to Prepare for UPSC Exam While Working

The balance of a full-time job and UPSC Exam preparation is not easy yet, it's a challenge that many aspirants have succeeded in conquering. If you're preparing to take the UPSC Exam while working, the secret lies in time management, strategic studying strategies, and utilizing the appropriate tools.

1. Time Management: The Secret Weapon

The biggest difficulty to getting ready for UPSC Exam while working is making time for studying. Here's how you can improve your schedule for the day:

Create a daily Routine Plan a schedule that is based on your working hours. Mornings that are early or late at night are ideal for focused studying sessions.

Maximize Weekends: Weekends are crucial. Utilize them to study larger parts of the syllabus, such as reviewing and taking mock test.

Take advantage of the breaks in your day to have short review sessions. Even a few minutes can be a significant amount of time over the course of a day.

2. Leverage Smart Resources

The preparation for the UPSC Exam during your work wants that you are careful when it comes to the study materials. Instead of shifting on a variety of books, concentrate on a handful of reliable resources:

NCERTs: Begin by reading NCERT books for an superb foundation in all topics.

Basic Reference Books Use the standard reference books to get in-depth coverage.

Online Courses: You can enroll in online courses at the Vajirao & Reddy IAS Coaching in Delhi that provides a comprehensive overview with detailed lectures. This systematic approach will assist you in managing your preparation in the midst of a busy job.

3. Consistency is Key

Consistency is the foundation of successful preparation for the UPSC Exam while working. Even if you only take a couple of hours per day, it is important to maintain an ongoing progress.

Keep Motivated: It's very easy to become demotivated, especially when you're trying to manage work and studies. Always remind yourself of your goals as well as the larger overall picture.

Join a community: Connect with other students who are also studying for the UPSC Exam and working. Forums, study groups, online and mentorship programs are a great way to help and motivate you.

4. Prioritize the Syllabus

In a short amount of time available, it's crucial to prioritize your course and focus on those areas that can yield the greatest positive results:

General Studies: Start with static subjects like History, Polity, and Geography. They are fundamental and do not change, which makes them more easy to cover in a systematic manner.

Current Affairs: Stay current with the current news of the day by reading reputable newspapers such as The Hindu or Indian Express. Alternately, you can utilize monthly compilations to concentrate on the most current information.

Optional Subject: Select an option that matches with your interests, or has overlaps the subject of General Studies, as this could help you save time and energy.

5. Practice Answer Writing and Mock Tests

Answer written and mock tests are important in UPSC preparation, particularly for the Mains test.

Everyday Answer Write-up: Set aside at least 30 minutes a day to write your answer. It can be done during lunch breaks or even after work. Make sure to write simple, brief responses.

Weekly Mock Tests: Make use of weekends to practice for practice tests. These tests can help you determine your level of preparation and increase your ability to manage your time.

6. Prioritize Your Health

In the process of preparing for UPSC Exam while working, it is important to not neglect your health. A healthy food plan and daily workout and adequate rest are vital for maintaining physical and mental health. Breaks during studying can help you reenergize your mind.

Making preparations for the UPSC Exam when you are working can be a challenge but it's not impossible. If you manage your time efficiently by prioritizing your syllabus and using smart resources such as the Vajirao and Reddy IAS Institute General Studies courses will help you achieve your UPSC objectives without having to sacrifice your commitments to work. If you are determined, have a strategic plan and a constant effort the success you desire is within attainment.

A good online IAS coaching can provide many benefits which can significantly aid how you prepare for IAS exam. The accessibility and flexibility offered by online platform, paired with individualized learning experiences, skilled faculty, extensive study material as well as regular tests as well as a helpful study community makes these platforms a great source for those aspiring to take the exam. If you're thinking of going online, Vajirao and Reddy Institute are the best option. They blend the elements to assist students throughout your IAS journey.

[venkateshwara-group1998]

Shri Venkateshwara University held Deeksharam, an orientation program for new students.

Shri Venkateshwara University hosted Deeksharam 2024, an orientation program for the newly admitted students for the session 2024-25.

The College management welcomed the new joiners and pledged to prepare them according to the international demand & dedicate themselves to national service. 

On this occasion, the senior students presented an excellent cultural program that made the event memorable.

The Venkateshwara Group Founder President Dr Sudhir Giri wished them a bright future & exhorted them to give their 100 percent & dedicate themselves to national service.

The Venkateshwara Group Founder President Dr Sudhir Giri, Pro Chancellor Dr Rajeev Tyagi, & Chief Guest Actor Mr. Imran Zahid inaugurated the event by lighting a lamp to Goddess Saraswati.

The Chief Advisor Dr VPS Arora, Registrar Dr Piyush Pandey, CEO Mr. Ajay Shrivastava & the VC Dr Krishna Kant Dave joined them to unveil the Deeksharam 2024 ceremony.

The Venkateshwara Group Founder President Dr Sudhir Giri reiterated the NEP 2020 is excellent as it offers tremendous job opportunities for students in all streams.

The students should keep upgrading their skills for better placement. In the last 1 decade, the Venkateshwara Group has nurtured thousands of skilled professionals in various streams.

It’s a matter of pride that Venkateshwara professionals are working at top positions in India and abroad. As per NEP 2020, we should train our students as per the growing national/international demand so that they create a mark for themselves at various forums.

Mr Imran Zahid CG & Director Takeone Media School New Delhi said there is no dearth of talent in youth from rural & backwards areas. They just need the right trainer to nurture their talent.

Keynote speaker and Chief Editor of Sahara Samay, Mr. Bhupesh Kohli, emphasized the need for continual self-improvement in our journey to becoming successful citizens.

He stressed the importance of striving to progress every day and in every moment to achieve our highest potential.

The Pro Chancellor Dr Rajeev Tyagi asserted in the last one decade Indian professionals have done excellent work in their field and made the country proud.

We are committed to provide a stable & secure career to all the newly admitted students of Venkateshwara Group.

The Vice Chancellor, Dr. Krishna Kant Dave, expressed the view that in order to achieve success, one must fully dedicate themselves to whatever they pursue.

According to Registrar Dr. Piyush Pandey, maintaining confidence in challenging situations is the hallmark of a truly successful individual.

The CEO Mr. Ajay Shrivastava, VC Dr Krishna Kant Dave, & the Registrar Dr Piyush Pandey also addressed the Deeksharam 2024 event.

Those present included the Director Academics Dr Rajesh Singh, Dr Divya Girdhar, Dr Dinesh Gautam, Dr VN Jha Dr Anil Jaiswal, Dr Aashiya Wahid, Dr Neetu Panwar, Dr Pawanjeet Kaur, & Mr. Sunil Kumar Bhagwania.

The Meerut Campus Director, Dr Pratap Singh, was present along with the media Incharge Mr. Vishwas Rana, among others.

[warningsine]

Protests against sexual violence are taking place across India to demand more protection for women in the world’s most populous nation.

The demonstrations are helping to raise much-needed awareness about an epidemic of rape. But to tackle the pervasive culture of misogyny in a society that’s still fiercely patriarchal, reform needs to start with the top echelons of institutions, such as the courts and police force.

It won’t be easy to address norms that have been in place for centuries. While education and better policies can help, more women need to be elected and appointed to top jobs, both in politics and the corporate world (scores for women’s representation in ministerial positions (6.9%) and in parliament (17.2%) remain relatively low, according to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap report for 2024). Instituting change from within these largely male bastions of power will help to improve India’s reputation internationally, at a time when foreign investors are looking closely at the economic powerhouse.

The brutal act that prompted the marches was the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor on Aug. 9 at a government hospital in Kolkata. It was reminiscent of the 2012 gang rape and murder of a 23-year-old physiotherapy student on a New Delhi bus.

Back then, massive demonstrations occurred across the nation and a commission was set up to reconsider laws on sexual crimes. The government passed tougher laws on rape, including the death penalty for repeat offenders. The legislation also provided for jail terms for police officers who fail to record an initial complaint lodged by an assaulted woman.

The policy changes, though small steps, were an improvement and recognize that lawmakers have to act to deal with these vicious crimes.

But it didn’t stop violence against women. In fact, it’s getting worse.

A total of 445,256 cases of crime against women were registered during 2022. Among them, around 32,000 were rapes, up from approximately 28,000 in 2020. In 2011, a woman was raped every 20 minutes, according to government data. That rose to about every 16 minutes by 2021.

India is not the only country with a strong patriarchal culture that favors men. However, it is one where it seems that those in power have been turning a blind eye to violence against women for far too long. It has become so normalized that a report from the National Crime Records Bureau has categories including murder with rape/gang rape, dowry deaths, abetment to suicide of women, acid attack and cruelty by husband or his relatives.

Despite economic advances, the picture for women isn’t improving. India ranked 129 out of 146 countries on the Global Gender Gap Index 2024. Nine-in-10 Indians agree with the notion that a wife must always obey her husband, including nearly two-thirds who completely agree with this sentiment, according to a 2022 survey by the Pew Research Center on how men and women perceive gender roles.

It all starts at home, which is another issue. Families tend to place a higher value on sons rather than daughters, because of a perception that they can help to financially support parents in old age — although many working women do this too. Then there’s the matter of dowries for brides. Despite being outlawed since 1961, they are still prevalent, even among the educated middle class.

Passing new laws won’t address these issues, because of inherent flaws within the system. "Law enforcement personnel are misogynistic and overburdened — they neither have the will nor the capacity to help women,” Poulami Roychowdhury, associate professor of sociology at Brown University, told me. "Policymakers need to implement police reforms and add judges to the benches, and make public spaces like hospitals, schools and other institutions where women are at risk, safer.”

India’s judicial system is notoriously backlogged and cases can take years to go through the courts. For many women, this adds to the stigma of reporting a rape or sexual assault, because of the long delay they face to get any form of justice. The largely male police force also needs to change — women make up just under 11%, far behind the U.K., where female officers constitute a third of overall law enforcement. In 2022, the India Justice Report, which surveys the state of law enforcement, said it would take 24 years to reach the police’s target of 33% female representation.

Given a society that has long adhered to deeply ingrained views on the roles of men and women, it is not surprising that men are disproportionately represented in government and corporate positions of power. That makes it an uphill battle and a missed opportunity to acknowledge the value that women contribute to business. India could increase gross domestic product by $770 billion by 2025 if it gets more women to work and boost equality, McKinsey Global Institute estimated. The female contribution to GDP is 18%, one of the lowest in the world, reflecting the fact that women make up only 25% of the labor force.

People power has brought attention to the plight of women in India. But that is no longer enough. For meaningful change, policymakers need to reform the institutions that can directly improve the lives of half the population. Women in the world’s largest democracy deserve that.

[shakunthalaravikumar]

Unlocking Career Success: Networking Strategies for Indian Professionals

Introduction

In today’s competitive job market, networking has become an essential skill for career growth, particularly for Indian professionals. The ability to connect with the right people can open doors to numerous opportunities, from job prospects to mentorships. However, the cultural and societal dynamics in India present unique challenges that require a tailored approach. By blending traditional networking practices with modern strategies, Indian professionals can build strong, lasting professional relationships.

The Power of Networking in Career Growth

Networking is more than just exchanging business cards or making LinkedIn connections; it’s about building meaningful relationships that can propel your career forward. In India, personal connections often play a pivotal role in professional advancement, making networking an indispensable skill for career success. A strong network can lead to mentorship, collaborations, and even job offers, underscoring the importance of effective networking strategies.

Cultural Challenges in Networking

Indian professionals face unique challenges in networking, such as hierarchical corporate structures and deeply ingrained social norms. Overcoming these challenges requires a strategic approach that respects tradition while embracing professional assertiveness. Understanding and adapting to these cultural nuances is key to building a successful network in India.

Building a Strong Networking Foundation

Understanding Networking Basics

Effective networking starts with a clear understanding of its fundamentals. It’s about fostering genuine relationships rather than seeking immediate gains. This foundational approach ensures that interactions are meaningful and mutually beneficial. Successful networking strategies focus on creating value for both parties involved, laying the groundwork for long-term professional relationships.

Setting Clear Networking Objectives

Establishing clear objectives is crucial for effective networking. Whether you’re seeking mentorship, exploring job opportunities, or expanding your industry knowledge, having specific goals will guide your networking efforts. Measurable targets, such as the number of new connections made or follow-ups scheduled, help track progress and ensure that your networking activities are purposeful and directed.

Leveraging Digital Platforms for Networking

Maximizing LinkedIn for Career Growth

LinkedIn is a powerful platform for professional networking. A well-crafted profile, consistent engagement with industry-related content, and proactive connection-building can significantly enhance your visibility and open doors to new opportunities. Regularly posting updates, joining relevant groups, and participating in discussions are effective strategies for increasing your online presence on LinkedIn.

Engaging in Industry-Specific Online Communities

Beyond LinkedIn, participating in industry-specific forums and online communities offers additional avenues for networking. These platforms provide spaces to share insights, seek advice, and establish your presence in your field. Contributing valuable content and engaging with other professionals on these platforms can help broaden your network.

Conclusion

Networking is a vital skill for Indian professionals seeking career advancement. By implementing effective networking strategies, you can navigate the complexities of networking with confidence and build a robust professional network. The connections you make today will shape your career’s future, so start networking now.