Defence expert Praveen Sawhney raised concerns about India’s growing reliance on the United States, urging for a more balanced foreign policy approach. He emphasized the need to consider India’s crucial ties with China, especially within its roles in BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
This year’s Manthan Samvaad, held in Hyderabad on October 2nd to coincide with Gandhi Jayanti, served as a vital forum for public discourse on a range of pressing topics.
Sawhney, also the editor of Force magazine, articulated a compelling vision of the shifting global landscape, highlighting the increasing stability of the Global South amidst rising uncertainty in many developed countries.
Professor Rathin Roy, an economist and faculty member at the Kautilya School of Public Policy, pointed out the nationwide prevalence of social backwardness and caste-based discrimination. He noted these issues persist even in Southern Indian states with higher GDPs, underscoring the necessity of targeted policy interventions to bridge these gaps.
Ashoka University Chancellor and renowned historian, Professor Rudrangshu Mukherjee, offered insights into the complex yet deeply respectful relationship between Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore, emphasizing their shared dedication to combating British colonialism.
Arfa Khanum Sherwani, a senior editor at The Wire, addressed the critical issue of press freedom, detailing the mounting pressures and limitations journalists encounter in selecting and presenting their stories.
Dr. Sashidhara, a molecular biologist and Director of NCBS, Bengaluru, passionately advocated for fostering a strong scientific temper within society. He attributed the foundation of India’s leading scientific and educational institutions to Jawaharlal Nehru’s visionary leadership.
Senior advocate Colin Gonsalves voiced serious concerns regarding state overreach and the troubling situation of activists held without fair trial. He passionately called upon citizens to remain vigilant and actively challenge injustices and any attempts to undermine civil liberties.
The Samvaad concluded with an insightful and candid discussion between acclaimed stand-up comedian Vir Das and Soumithri, where they explored pertinent themes of freedom of expression, censorship, and the inherent responsibilities of artistic creation.
Vikram Mamidipudi, co-founder of Manthan, closed the event by honoring his late co-founder Ajay Gandhi and reflecting on the organization’s impactful journey since its inception in 2005.