Geopolitical Shifts: The Balance of Power Amidst the Global Tensions.

In our current times, the global geopolitical landscape is a dynamic arena where the balance of power is constantly evolving. In the past year alone, the Russia-Ukraine war and mounting tensions between China and the USA have led to a reconfiguration of power dynamics. Today, we will explore the current state of affairs between Western countries, Middle-Eastern countries, and Asia, with a focus on China and India, as these regions navigate the complexities of international relations.

The Russia-Ukraine Conflict:

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has had far-reaching implications on the balance of power. It has strained relations between Russia and the Western countries, leading to economic sanctions, diplomatic tensions, and heightened security concerns. The West, comprising primarily the United States and European Union, has supported Ukraine, imposing sanctions on Russia and providing military aid to the Ukrainian government. The conflict has shifted the balance of power in favor of the West, as it strengthens alliances and galvanizes support against Russia's expansionist ambitions. A year after Russia's invasion of Ukraine sparked the largest conflict in Europe since World War II, the repercussions continue to reverberate around the world. Not only has the war in Ukraine set off a geopolitical realignment, but it has caused economic hardship far from the epicenter of the fighting.

The Feb 2022, invasion has touched off a refugee crisis, as Ukrainians flee the conflict in their homeland and many Russian men seek to avoid conscription. More than eight million refugees have fled Ukraine in what the World Health Organization [WHO] describes as "the largest movement of people in the European Region since the Second World War." Many have been involuntarily relocated by Russia. Others have put a strain on resources, as well as schools and hospitals, in Poland and Germany. However, one of the positive effects has been that Ukrainian refugees are filling factory jobs left vacant by Europe's labor shortage. The political effect has been the faster process toward expanding NATO, with Finland and Sweden pursuing membership after decades of official neutrality.

A 21st century war in Europe, led by a nuclear power, is pushing the world toward realignment. It has rattled NATO, the European Union and the U.N., forcing countries to take sides in ways that have led to escalating tensions and diplomatic shifts. For example, Turkey, despite being a NATO member, has increased trade with Russia since the start of the war and has strenuously objected against Sweden and Finland joining the NATO alliance.

There is a push-back to the US efforts to widen this war into a global conflict. When NATO’s secretary-general called on South Korea to supply military assistance to Ukraine, stressing Kyiv’s “urgent need” for more ammunition, Seoul refused. Despite being a NATO member, Turkey has refused to join Western sanctions against Russia or to supply Ukraine with weapons, instead pushing the two to begin peace talks. South Africa went ahead with joint military exercises with both Russia and China despite Western criticism; and Iran has acknowledged that it is providing Russia with attack drones.

India has refused to take sides in what it views as essentially a power struggle between the East and West. India has instead opted to walk the middle path: preserving its time-tested relations with Russia, seeking to improve relations with China, and strengthening relations with USA and Japan. India’s middle-path approach has gained greater relevance and urgency with its leadership of the G-20 this year. Prime Minister Modi has reinforced India's long-standing policy of nonalignment, and creatively rephrased it as “multi-alignment”. Multi-alignment, according to India's Foreign Minister Dr. Jaishankar, is “more energetic and participative.” India currently balances its memberships in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, alongside Russia and China (the SCO), and the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (known as the Quad) with Australia, Japan, and the United States. India has placed a significant emphasis on debt relief for developing economies, and Prime Minister Modi recently expressed his concern for the unsustainable debt that threatens the “financial viability” of many countries. 

The Middle-East set-back to USA. 

The Middle-East, long characterized by geopolitical complexities, finds itself in a unforeseen position amidst the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Historically, the region has been influenced by both Western powers and Russia, primarily due to its strategic importance in terms of energy resources and geopolitical significance. The old US Middle-East policy strategies of the US which asked Arab partners for their undivided loyalty, and which assumed collective enmity toward Iran, does not work anymore. There was a time when USA was able to impose, or at least rudely communicate its preferences to its Arab partners. But that time is now gone. The USA does not have the leverage it once had in the region. It is also less trusted by its Arab partners, who have interpreted the US withdrawal from Afghanistan and tolerance of Iranian aggression in the region to mean that it is headed for the exit from the region.

There is no doubt that USA has stepped back from diplomatic leadership on the Middle-East peace process and conflict management across the region. Only on issues related to Iran, the USA has a sustained but not consistent, focus. Other actors have been inserting themselves into regional decision-making. As these two dynamics converge, a new geopolitical structure is evolving. It has seven primary countries; Saudi Arabia, Iran, Turkey, Israel, the United States, India and Russia. Others, like Egypt, maintain some of their past influence, although at significantly diminished levels. The Iran - Saudi Arabia peace pact, brokered by China has the potential of bringing about a higher level of peaceful co-existence, that the USA has not been able to achieve over decades.

US officials understand very well  that asking regional partners to downgrade their economic relations with China is a nonstarter (since, China is Saudi Arabia’s largest trading partner). They also recognize that encouraging these partners to limit their political relations with China is not an option either. These partners are likely to increase their cooperation under the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of states. The one major area where the USA still has enough influence to shape the policy agenda with its Arab partners, is defense and security. The big challenge for USA will be to offer substantial incentives to its Arab partners to refrain from military cooperation with China, while ensuring they (the USA) do not promise anything it cannot deliver, including, most notably, a formal defense pact or official security guarantees. Economic interests have compelled several regional powers to increase their trade and do more business with China, and Gulf Arab partners’ new diplomatic approach to security has sought to pacify and normalize ties with Iran.

In the Middle-East, India is not supporting another country’s empire but advancing its own interests. When the United States, India, Israel, and the United Arab Emirates set up a new joint working group to coordinate strategy earlier this month, the four-country combination inevitably drew comparisons with the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, the Indo-Pacific Quad that joins the United States and India with Australia and Japan. 

Two factors have played an important role in India’s relations with Middle Eastern countries: economics and India’s internal politics. The economic factor is centered on the oil trade and remittances from the sizable Indian diaspora in the Middle East. The second factor is India’s internal politics with regard to its own large Muslim population. Over a period of time, however, India has diversified its relations beyond these factors. Especially in the case of Saudi Arabia, where India has been developing an extended strategic partnership over the past few years, leading to an agreement to set up a Indo-Saudi Strategic Partnership Council, and to increase cooperation on counter-terrorism. 

China's Rising Influence:

China's rapid rise as a global power has been a defining feature of the 21st century. With a robust economy, expansive military capabilities, and an assertive foreign policy, China seeks to challenge the dominant global position of Western countries and reshape the geopolitical landscape in Asia and beyond. The ongoing trade tensions and ideological differences between China and the United States have strained relations and increased the likelihood of armed confrontation. As the world's two largest economies, any conflict between China and the United States would have profound consequences for global stability and the balance of power.  

On his recent visit to China, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva pledged to work with Beijing to “re-balance” global politics and expressed a desire to settle more trade in a currency other than the U.S. dollar, another interest that is shared by China. In addition to Lula, heads of state or government from the European Union, France, Malaysia, Singapore and Spain have visited China since late March 2023, and senior Chinese officials have met with their counterparts in multiple countries. French President Emmanuel Macron in particular raised eyebrows after voicing support for Chinese narratives and releasing a joint statement pledging cooperation in areas of nuclear energy and food security.  China is waging what could be termed a new “great game” for geopolitical dominance. While China frequently deploys military coercion tactics to back up its extensive territorial claims, it seeks to secure global dominance not by a risky campaign of military conquest, but by a more subtle and gradual approach of amassing political and economic influence.

The balance of power in the 21st century is characterized by a complex interplay between Western countries, Middle Eastern countries, India and China. The Russia-Ukraine conflict has led to the consolidation of Western alliances, bolstering their position vis-à-vis Russia. However, the rise of China, which is being countered by the rise of India, introduces a new dynamic, as it challenges the Western-led order and seeks to assert its influence regionally and globally. 2023 looks set to be a transition year for geopolitics. An end to the war in Ukraine does not appear in sight. Putin looks unlikely to win decisively and Ukraine will not give up. The West still lacks a common strategy on how to end the war. The war will continue to modify the post-Cold War world order but no clear alternative structure is emerging. While Western unity has been strengthened, particularly through NATO and the G7, the partnership between China and Russia remains strong. Amongst this fragmentation and uncertainty, one thing is clear: the China-US relationship will remain the single most important fault line in geopolitics. 

To counter China's 'Belt and Road Initiative', national security advisors from India, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the United States met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman in Riyadh to discuss an ambitious connectivity project to link the Middle East to India through roads, rails, and seaports. The connectivity project aims to leverage India’s capacity as an infrastructure provider. Its track record includes the construction of the world’s largest rail system in Asia and contributions to cross-border electricity-sharing arrangements. Through the new initiative Indian officials hope to develop a deeper infrastructure footprint in the Middle East to counter China’s BRI. This Middle East-India connectivity initiative is still purely aspirational, but its potential is vast, linking India with a region critical to its interests and in cooperation with some of its top partners. It is planned that India could eventually benefit from land and sea trade routes stretching from Israel and the UAE all the way to Greece’s Piraeus port and onward into Europe.

Despite remaining strong in 2022, Western unity will be tested. The EU and the US do not share the same approach towards China. The EU itself is divided, with Germany advocating for a more balanced approach. Tensions between the EU and the US are also growing on trade and subsidies following the US Inflation Reduction Act which provides massive subsidies for US green industries, threatening European industry at a time when it is already facing high energy prices. The EU has announced that it will develop its own subsidy package in response. 

Many countries in the ‘Global South’ will seek to insulate their interests from big power competition. This new form of non-alignment is motivated by practical concerns, including leveraging market access to and support from the West and China for investment, technology and debt. They may still align with either side on different issues on a case-by-case basis. Three major developing countries will chair the G20 in 2023, 2024 and 2025: India, Brazil and South Africa allowing them to influence the geopolitical agenda. 

The possibility of an armed confrontation between China and the United States poses significant risks. It could potentially destabilize the global economy, disrupt international trade, and escalate tensions in the Asia-Pacific region. The USA, recognizing China's growing influence, has adopted a more assertive stance, strengthening alliances in the region and engaging in economic and military partnerships with countries like Japan, South Korea, and Australia. These alliances serve as a counterweight to China's ambitions and contribute to maintaining a balance of power.

Against this backdrop, the global economic situation will remain uncertain and challenging throughout the year. Geopolitical instability will continue in 2023 and has become a key driver of policy developments. Geopolitical developments are directly leading to rapid policy changes in energy, digital, tech, trade, and defense areas as well as to investment screening rules. Corporate and investors need to anticipate and analyze these trends and understand how they will impact governments’ priorities. Businesses are facing governments that are becoming economically less rational. The political dimension is now taking a leading role in business policy decisions. Understanding the political context of these decisions is key to understanding and anticipating future policy changes and engaging with governments effectively. 

Today, Geopolitical instability remains prominent, 30 years after the Cold War and the alleged “end of history.” State-sponsored cyber risk, pandemics, adaptation to climate change, economic retrenchment, accelerating technological change, and demand internalization are all combining to create a risk environment that is unprecedented in terms of the challenges it poses. Financial disruptions, national and global security issues, supply chain vulnerabilities, existing and emerging cybersecurity threats, disruptions in food security, sudden and unexpected changes in the environment, and concerns about public health are interrelated like never before and therefore risk management must become an increasingly collaborative enterprise, and there is a clear and urgent need for uncommon collaborations in risk management. 

Essentially, there are many new policies and actions that are needed. Failures to accurately assess risk are, at their foundation; failures of imagination. Therefore, all stake-holders must embark on a focused “campaign of learning” to build a wider and stronger foundation of relationships and knowledge that allows them to see connections that they may not otherwise notice. 

We can win the race to reduce our vulnerability to risk and take advantage of the opportunities that arise. That is, if we acknowledge the extent to which things have changed, allow ourselves to be less comfortable in what we think we know, take ownership of the challenge, and act; early and often.

 

References & Citations:

https://en.majalla.com
https://www.npr.org
https://www.csis.org
https://www.discoursemagazine.com/
https://flint-global.com/
https://www.dw.com/en/
https://foreignpolicy.com/

Overcoming Stress and Anxiety: A Guide for All Ages

In today’s fast-moving life-style, stress and anxiety are universal experiences that affect people of all ages. Whether you're a teenager grappling with academic pressures, a young adult navigating career challenges, or an elderly person facing the complexities of aging, we all have to learn and understand how to manage stress and anxiety, which is crucial for our well-being. Based on my life experience, I am sharing some practical strategies that can help individuals of all ages navigate stress and anxiety.

1.   Recognize and Acknowledge: The first step in managing stress and anxiety is to recognize and acknowledge our emotions. Understand that stress and anxiety are natural responses to challenging situations, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed at times. Allow yourself to experience these emotions without judgment, as denying or suppressing them can intensify the issue.

2.   Practice Self-Care: Regardless of our age, self-care is vital for managing stress and anxiety. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. These can include exercise, spending time in nature, pursuing hobbies, reading, listening to music, or practicing mindfulness and meditation. Remember to prioritize self-care regularly and make it a non-negotiable part of our routine.

3.   Develop Coping Mechanisms: Coping mechanisms are healthy strategies that help us deal with stress and anxiety. While the specific techniques may vary based on individual preferences, some effective coping mechanisms include deep breathing exercises, writing journals (diary), talking to a trusted friend or family member, engaging in creative outlets, and practicing positive affirmations. Experiment with different techniques and identify what works best for you.

4.   Build a Support System: Connecting with others is crucial when it comes to managing stress and anxiety. Cultivate a strong support system comprising friends, family members, or support groups who can provide a listening ear and offer guidance. Sharing your concerns with others can alleviate the burden and provide a fresh perspective on your situation.

5.   Time Management and Prioritization: Often, stress and anxiety stem from feeling overwhelmed by numerous responsibilities and commitments. Developing effective time management skills and learning to prioritize tasks can help us regain a sense of control. Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps and tackle them one at a time. Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, and don't hesitate to delegate when possible.

6.   Seek Professional Help: If stress and anxiety become persistent and significantly interfere with our daily life, it's essential to seek professional help. Mental health professionals, such as psychologists or therapists, are trained to provide guidance and support tailored to our specific needs. They can help us develop personalized strategies to manage stress and anxiety effectively.

7.   Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle contributes to overall well-being and resilience against stress. Ensure that we get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, and engage in regular physical activity. Limiting our consumption of caffeine and alcohol helps, as these can increase anxiety symptoms. Taking care of our physical health positively impacts our mental health.

8.   Practice Gratitude and Positive Thinking: Focusing on the positives in our life can help shift our mindset and reduce stress and anxiety. Practice gratitude by acknowledging and appreciating the things we have and are grateful for each day. Focus on positive thinking by re-framing negative thoughts into more optimistic and realistic ones. Engaging in positive self-talk can also boost our resilience.

Stress and anxiety does impact people of all ages, but by implementing the above, individuals can effectively manage and alleviate their burden. Remember, everyone's journey is unique, and it may take time to find the right combination of techniques that work for you. By recognizing our emotions, practicing self-care, seeking support, and utilizing healthy coping mechanisms, we can cultivate resilience and navigate life's challenges with greater ease.

Be Safe, Be Happy and find Contentment in Life… 

 

 

400 MPs under 40: Why Young, Independent Candidates Deserve Your Vote(s)....

In a democratic society, the power to choose our representatives through voting is a fundamental right. As responsible citizens, we must exercise this right carefully and consider the long-term impact our choices will have on our nation's future. In recent times, it has become apparent that there is a significant age gap between the majority of voters and the elected politicians. Let us analyze the importance of supporting younger candidates, preferably independent ones, whose ages are closer to the voter demographic, and why doing so can bring fresh perspectives, innovation, and a stronger representation of our interests.

1.   Representing the Voice of the Majority:

The age group of 18 to 31 constitutes a significant portion of the population, and their concerns, aspirations, and priorities deserve strong representation in the political landscape. Younger candidates are more likely to understand and empathize with the challenges faced by their fellow youth, whether it be education, employment, or social issues. By electing candidates closer to the age of  the majority of voters, we can ensure our concerns are given due attention and that our voices are effectively represented.

2.   Embracing Change and Innovation:

The world is rapidly evolving, with technological advancements and social shifts occurring at an unprecedented pace. Younger candidates are more likely to be in tune with these changes, as they have grown up in an era of rapid technological progress. Their unique perspectives and innovative ideas can help resolve many of the challenges of the modern world, foster economic growth, and create opportunities for the younger generation. By supporting younger candidates, voters will invite the infusion of new ideas, creative problem-solving, and adaptability into our political systems.

3.   Independence from Party Influence:

Political parties often have their own agendas and established hierarchies, mostly made up of geriatric people, that can limit the autonomy of individual political thinking. Supporting independent candidates allows voters to break free from the constraints of partisan politics and focus on electing representatives who prioritize the interests of their constituents over party loyalty. Independent candidates can bring a broader range of perspectives, as they are not bound by party platforms and can work towards finding common ground across different ideologies. This non-partisan approach fosters a more inclusive and collaborative political environment.

4.   Bridge the Generation Gap:

By electing younger candidates, voters can bridge the generation gap that often exists between the elected representatives and the majority of voters. This can lead to improved communication, understanding, and cooperation between different age groups. By electing representatives who are closer in age to the majority of voters, we can promote inter-generational dialogue and ensure that the concerns of all age groups are taken into account when making important decisions that shape our society.

Let’s compare the advantages and disadvantages of voting for young political candidates:

Advantages:

1.   Fresh Perspectives: Young political candidates often bring fresh perspectives and new ideas to the table. They have grown up in a different era and can offer innovative solutions to address the challenges of today's world.

2.   Relevance to Voter Concerns: Younger candidates are more likely to understand and prioritize the concerns and aspirations of their fellow youth. They can advocate for issues such as education, employment opportunities, and social issues that directly impact younger generations.

3.   Technological Proficiency: Growing up in a technologically advanced era, young candidates are generally more adept at using and leveraging technology for governance and public participation. This can lead to more effective and efficient governance, and better engagement with constituents through digital platforms.

4.   Long-Term Vision: Young candidates have a longer potential tenure in public office, which enables them to focus on long-term policies and planning. They may be more invested in shaping the future, as they have a longer stake in the consequences of their decisions.

Disadvantages:

1.   Limited Experience: Young candidates may lack the experience and depth of knowledge that comes with years of political involvement. They may face a learning curve when it comes to navigating complex political systems and dealing with the intricacies of governance.

2.   Lack of Network and Support: Young candidates often have limited political networks and may struggle to garner support from established political structures and interest groups. Building alliances and coalitions can be challenging, which may hinder their ability to enact change.

3.   Perception of Inexperience: Some voters may perceive young candidates as lacking the necessary qualifications and readiness to hold public office. This perception can be a barrier to their electoral success, particularly if they are running against more seasoned and politically cunning opponents.

4.   Overemphasis on Youth Issues: While it is important to address the concerns of young voters, an exclusive focus on youth issues could potentially neglect the broader range of challenges faced by other age groups. Balancing the interests of different demographics is crucial for effective governance.

It is important to note that these advantages and disadvantages are not absolute, and individual candidates will vary in their qualities and capabilities. Evaluating candidates based on their specific merits, qualifications, and policy positions is essential when making an informed voting decision.

In the next general election, young voters must consider voting for candidates whose ages are closer to their own. By supporting younger, independent candidates, voters can empower themselves to shape the future that they desire. Young elected representatives will ensure that their concerns are heard, their ideas are accepted, and their aspirations are fulfilled. Together, the voters can bridge the age gap, foster innovation, and build a more inclusive democracy that works for everyone, regardless of their age. It is time to make our voices heard by supporting young and independent candidates in the upcoming election.

Remember: If we can vote 400 young candidates to the Parliament in the next general election, we will change everything in our nation, and for the better. 

400 over 40 should be the voters goal.

                                                                 Pic courtesy: EU forum

 

 

 

Unraveling the Phenomenon: Why Popular Political Parties Lose Re-elections

In the dynamic landscape of Indian politics, it is not uncommon to witness the rise and fall of popular political parties. Surprisingly, even after achieving consecutive electoral victories, parties often face rejection from the very voters who once supported them wholeheartedly, just like the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) has suffered yesterday in Karnataka. This intriguing phenomenon begs the question: why do popular political parties lose re-elections? This article hopes to explore the factors that contribute to this rejection and understand the complex dynamics between parties and voters.

1.     Complacency and Lack of Accountability: One significant factor leading to the downfall of popular political parties is the danger of complacency (a combination of vanity, ego and arrogance). After enjoying a successful tenure, parties usually become complacent, assuming that their previous victories guarantee future success. This breeds a lack of accountability, causing parties to overlook the needs and concerns of the voters. When voters perceive a lack of responsiveness, they usually opt for change, rejecting the incumbent party in favor of a new alternative.

2.     Failure to Deliver Promised Change: Political parties often come to power by promising transformative change and addressing critical issues. However, when these promises remain unfulfilled or their progress is slow, voters feel disillusioned. Disappointment and frustration with unmet expectations erode public trust, leading to a rejection of the party in subsequent elections. Voters may view the party as having failed to deliver on its promises, seeking alternatives that they believe will bring the desired change.

3.     Shifts in Societal Dynamics and Values: In any society, the dynamics and values are constantly evolving, and political parties must adapt to these changes to stay relevant. Parties that fail to recognize and respond to shifting social trends risk losing touch with the aspirations and concerns of the voters, especially the young ones. When a party's policies and ideologies no longer resonate with the evolving values of the population, voters may seek parties that align more closely with their evolving beliefs, resulting in electoral defeats for the incumbent party.

4.     Scandals and Corruption: Instances of corruption, scandals, or unethical behavior within a party can have severe repercussions on its electoral prospects. Such incidents erode public trust, tarnish the party's image, and breed disillusionment among voters. The electorate may associate the entire party with the wrongdoing of a few individuals, leading to a rejection of the party as a whole. Voters often demand transparency, integrity, and ethical conduct from political parties, and any perceived violation of these principles can cost a party dearly in re-elections. Not all corruption is financial. Much more harmful is the moral corruption that arises from partisan politics and appeasement of one section of society for votes, while ignoring the others who naturally feel alienated.

5.     Failure to Address New Challenges: Political landscapes are constantly shaped by emerging challenges and crises. Parties that fail to address these new issues effectively risk losing support from voters. Whether it's economic downturns, environmental concerns, or social justice movements, voters expect their chosen party to provide viable solutions and demonstrate the ability to adapt. If a party appears ill-equipped to address these challenges or is perceived as out of touch, voters may choose to support alternative parties that offer fresh perspectives and strategies.

Overall, the loss of re-election by popular political parties after consecutive victories can be attributed to a combination of factors. Complacency, unfulfilled promises, societal shifts, scandals, and failure to address emerging challenges all play a role in shaping voter sentiment. It is crucial for political parties to remain accountable, responsive, and adaptable to evolving circumstances to maintain the trust and support of the electorate. Parties must understand that the pursuit of genuine progress requires consistent efforts and a deep understanding of the ever-changing needs and aspirations of the people they serve. The most important factor in today’s political landscape is the median age of the voters when compared with the median age of those contesting the elections. In India, the median age of the voter is 29, while elected representatives are 56 years of age on average. This generation gap is also a factor to be considered by political parties.

The young generation voters must vote for young candidates, preferably independent candidates with no affiliation to any political party, and reject the political party supported candidates. Only then will there be a positive change in politics at every level, from local elections to national elections.  

 

 

 

Addressing the Fear: Why Politicians Worldwide Are Concerned about the Growth of Artificial Intelligenc

Introduction: 

Artificial intelligence (Ai) has rapidly emerged as a transformative force that holds tremendous potential for changes in various sectors, industrial and personal. However, this remarkable growth has also instilled a sense of fear and concern among politicians across the globe. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this fear and discuss the importance of educating citizens to help them better understand the life-changing effects of Ai.

1.   Job Displacement and Economic Impact: One of the primary concerns that politicians have regarding Ai is the potential for significant job displacement. As Ai technology advances, automation becomes more prevalent, leading to fears that many current job roles would become obsolete. Policymakers worry about the economic impact of widespread job losses, potential social unrest, and the need for re-training and up-skilling programs to ensure a smooth transition into the Ai driven economy.

2.   Ethical Considerations and Bias: Ai systems are only as good as the data they are trained on, and biases within the data would lead to biased outcomes. Politicians are apprehensive about the ethical implications of Ai, particularly in critical areas such as criminal justice, healthcare, and public services. They fear that without proper oversight and regulation, Ai systems may perpetuate existing biases or create new ones, leading to discrimination and unequal treatment, beyond those already created by various political decisions.

3.   Security and Privacy Concerns: The growth of Ai also raises concerns about security and privacy. Politicians worry about the potential misuse of Ai for surveillance, cyberattacks, or deep-fake technologies. There would be a need for robust legislation and safeguards to protect individuals' privacy rights and prevent Ai-related threats to national security.

4.   Lack of Understanding and Public Awareness: One significant challenge in addressing the fear of Ai lies in the lack of understanding and public awareness. The average person may perceive Ai as a mysterious and potentially threatening technology due to its portrayal in popular culture. Policymakers must recognize the importance of educating the public about Ai to dispel misconceptions, foster informed discussions, and encourage citizen engagement in shaping AI policies.

How to Educate Citizens about Ai:

a. Integrate Ai Education in Schools: Incorporating Ai-related concepts and ethics into the curriculum can help familiarize students with the technology from an early age. This approach cultivates digital literacy and encourages critical thinking about Ai's benefits and risks.

b. Public Awareness Campaigns: Governments, academia, and industry leaders can collaborate on public awareness campaigns to promote a better understanding of Ai. These campaigns should emphasize the positive impact of Ai, debunk myths, and address concerns, enabling the fostering of a more informed and receptive public.

c. Public-Private Partnerships: Governments can and should forge partnerships with Ai companies and research institutions to develop educational programs, workshops, and public forums. These initiatives can provide citizens with opportunities to engage with Ai experts, ask questions, and gain insights into Ai's potential.

d. Transparent Regulation and Policies: Policymakers should prioritize transparent and inclusive policy-making processes. Citizens should have the opportunity to voice their concerns, contribute to the development of Ai regulations, and ensure that policies align with societal values and aspirations.

The fear surrounding the growth of artificial intelligence is a complex issue that policymakers worldwide must address. 

By understanding the reasons behind politicians' concerns and implementing effective education initiatives, leaders in Ai technology can help politicians and citizens navigate the transformative impact of Ai. By fostering a knowledgeable and engaged citizenry, together we can shape Ai policies that prioritize ethical considerations, safeguard privacy, and ensure that the benefits of Ai are accessible to all.

 

 

 

USA creating a fuzzy narrative that borders on falsehood against India.

 Recently, I came across a video by one Jacob Templin, who supposedly is an adjunct professor at Columbia University and Head of Video at Thomson Reuters from New York. His video was titled, “We don’t know how many people live in India, and it’s a problem”.

 The question to ask is, why is a leftist liberal like Jacob Templin interested in social issues of a foreign country? He neither stays in India, nor pays taxes here; and any views or opinions that he might have in this context are immaterial and unwarranted. Yet, these leftists keep on harping on issues in foreign countries, since its their very nature to try and pull-down others to their gutter levels.

 The USA as a nation is not known for its social integration. It’s a nation that has a history of slavery of colored people by white people, and a bloodier history of acquiring land through the mass massacre of native Indian tribes, and through war with neighboring governments to annex their territory. From the north-east where the first English people landed, to the Western shores of USA, their primary strategy of land-grab was through violence, blood-shed and genocide. Make no mistake about it, USA has committed genocide across continents and over decades to assert their ‘superiority’ over others.

 But, coming to the specific video that is the center of this article, its rather comical that the “victim” that is portrayed in the video is overweight to the point of being obese and even her family members who are seen in the background are, to put it mildly, overweight. The two Indian lady narrators in the video are, as usual, representing the bleeding-hearts that you stumble across in various social gatherings in India, and who justify their existence in society by living off the scraps thrown at them by the illiterate liberals of the western world.

 Indians have food security. The ‘victim’ in the video complains that she is buying flour from the stores in India at the price of ₹ 35/- per kilo (approximately 0.43 US cents for 2.2 US Lbs). Compare this to the March 2023 wheat flour retail price in USA at 0.52 cents per pound, or approximately 20% more expensive in USA as compared to India.

 Templin also seems to be totally unconcerned and oblivious to the fact that 9 million children in USA face hunger daily and do not know where they will find their next meal. This is according to the NGO in USA called Feeding America. Templin should also take note of the fact that off the 1-in-8 kids that are at risk of hunger in his country; black and Latino kids are more likely to face hunger than white children due to the systematic racial injustice in his country, USA.

In comparison, during the Covid lock-down in India, the government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, distributed food at subsidized rates to over 80 million residents of India; without any discrimination, giving 35 kg of food grain every month to families at the cost of 1 Indian rupees ($0.0121) to 3 Indian rupees ($0.0362). This free food program was terminated after the Covid pandemic’s dangers receded. As of today (in 2023), the Food Corporation of India through foresight and planning of an efficient supply chain management, growth in food production, and customer affordability due to subsidized prices for consumers, price support for farmers and food availability through extra grain distribution; have substantially reduced the number of food–insecure people in India. Due to this forward planning by our Prime Minister Modi’s government, the number of food-insecure people in India is projected to decrease to 24.7 million or 1.7 percent, by the next decade.

In the video, there is talk about growing unemployment and inflation in my India. The blatant lies here are not only mischievous but dangerously anti-Indian.

According to the recent (March 2023) report by CMIE (Centro for Monitoring Indian Economy), India’s unemployment rate in India is around 7.45% at present. Compare this to the unemployment rate in USA which stands at an average of 4.7% nationally, which is on the higher side for a ‘developed industrial’ nation.

The current inflation rate in India is 6.16% on average, which is calculated based on CPI (Consumer Price Index) values for the last 12 months ending in January 2023 while that of USA is 6.04% on average (down from 9.06% in June 2022). [Reference Inflationdata (dot) com].

The one issue that Templin and his ilk will never have an opinion on is the gun-violence in USA. According to ABC (American Broadcasting Company) News, more than 9,800 people were killed by gun violence in USA in the first 90 days of this year. That is 108 people killed per day. So, Templin is worried about the people problems in India, but has no published opinion about the people problem in his own country? 

Essentially, a country of 1.3 billion people with a rising economy cannot be the problem of Americans in any manner. But the liberal leftists like Templin consider every democracy, including their own as a danger to society, and therein lies the root cause of all intellectual insurgency.

Let Jacob Templin and others like him know, that our India is on a path to success under the able leadership of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and leftist liberals like him are not going to stop our success.

 

 

 

The Rise and Rise of Ai ...

 Artificial intelligence (Ai) is already making a significant impact on our lives and professions, and its influence is only going to grow stronger in the coming times. While Ai has the potential to bring about numerous benefits, it also poses several challenges that we need to be aware of.

In this article, we will discuss some of the challenges that arise from Ai influencing our lifestyles and professions, with a focus on how job profiles will change and which jobs will be affected the most.

1.    Automation of jobs

This is one of the most significant challenges posed by Ai. As Ai becomes more advanced, it is increasingly able to perform tasks that were once the exclusive domain of humans. This includes everything from manual labor to complex decision-making processes. As a result, many jobs that were previously done by humans are now being automated, leading to job loss and displacement.

Jobs that are most at risk of Ai automation include those that involve repetitive tasks or those that require little creativity or problem-solving. This includes jobs in manufacturing, data entry, and customer service. Even jobs that involve higher-level thinking, such as accountancy and law, are not immune to automation. Already, some Ai systems are already being used to help lawyers and accountants perform their work more efficiently.

2.    New job requirements

While some jobs may be automated, others will require new skills and knowledge to keep up with the changing landscape of Ai. Data scientists and engineers will be needed to design and develop Ai systems, while others will be needed to train and manage these systems. Additionally, jobs that involve creativity and critical thinking, such as artists and writers, may become more important as Ai takes over more routine tasks. Workers will need to adapt to new job requirements, which may involve retraining and up-skilling. This presents a challenge for both workers and employers, as they will need to invest time and resources to stay ahead of the changes brought about by Ai.

3.    Bias and fairness

Ai systems are only as unbiased as the data they are trained on. If the data used to train an Ai system is biased, the system will also be biased. This can lead to unfair outcomes and perpetuate existing inequalities. For example, if an Ai system used to screen job applications is trained on data that is biased against certain groups, it may lead to discrimination against those groups.

To address this challenge, it is essential to ensure that Ai systems are trained on unbiased data and are regularly audited to ensure fairness. Since, there is a need for diversity and inclusion in the development of Ai systems, it is necessary to ensure that the perspectives of all groups are taken into account.

4.    Privacy and security issues

Ai systems rely on large amounts of data to function effectively. This data often includes sensitive personal information, such as health records and financial data, thereby posing a significant risk of privacy breaches and data theft.

To address this challenge, it is essential to implement robust privacy and security measures. This includes ensuring that data is stored securely and that only authorized personnel have access to it. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that Ai systems are designed with privacy and security in mind, to minimize the risk of data breaches.

5.    Ethical concerns

Ai systems raise a range of ethical concerns, including issues related to accountability, transparency, and control. Essentially, who is to be held responsible if an Ai system makes a mistake that leads to harm to individuals? How can it be ensured that Ai systems are transparent and explainable, so that we can understand how they make decisions? And how can we ensure that humans retain control over Ai systems, rather than the other way around?

To address these concerns, it is essential to develop ethical frameworks and guidelines for the development and deployment of Ai systems. This includes ensuring that Ai systems are transparent and explainable, so that their decision-making processes can be understood and audited. It also involves creating mechanisms for accountability, so that individuals and organizations can be held responsible for the outcomes of A systems.

6.    Social and cultural impacts

We have to consider that the widespread adoption of Ai is likely to have significant social and cultural impacts. It is expected that the use of Ai systems to automate jobs may lead to significant economic and social upheaval, particularly in developing countries where many people rely on low-skilled jobs. Additionally, the increasing reliance on Ai systems in decision-making may have unintended consequences, such as perpetuating existing biases and inequalities.

To address these concerns, it is essential to ensure that the benefits of Ai are shared equally across all sections of society. This includes ensuring that workers who are displaced by Ai are given the support they need to retrain and find new employment. It also involves taking into account the potential social and cultural impacts of Ai systems, and designing a strategy to mitigate any negative effects.

In terms of job profiles that will be most affected by Ai, it is likely that low-skilled jobs that involve repetitive tasks will be the most at risk of automation. This includes jobs such as manufacturing, data entry, and customer service. And, as Ai systems become more advanced, it will impact higher-level jobs, such as those in law and accounting, which will also be affected.

However, there are new job profiles emerging as a result of Ai being used in our daily lives. For example, data scientists, engineers, and analysts are in high demand to design and develop Ai systems. And, jobs that require creativity and problem-solving, such as artists and writers, will become even more important as Ai systems take over more routine and repetitive tasks (except brushing your own teeth).

Therefore, while the impact of Ai on our lifestyles and professions is still unfolding, it is clear that it poses both challenges and opportunities. As we move forward, it is essential to answer these challenges proactively and work towards a future where Ai is used to benefit society as a whole and the individual in particular. This involves developing ethical frameworks for the development and deployment of Ai systems, ensuring that the benefits of Ai are shared equitably across society, and investing in retraining and upskilling programs to help workers adapt to the changing job landscape.

Thus, it is important that we do not fear Ai, but work towards having control over its development, so that it can be used for our benefit.