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Begin New Search Content Type Special Report Publishing Institution Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations

1. G20 Energy Transitions and Climate Finance Task Force Report

Author:
Gateway House
Publication Date:
02-2023
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
The past decade has recorded significant progress in the adoption of green energy around the world. This has been made possible by a combination of technological advances, easier availability of capital and regulatory measures. However, further progress is likely to slow due to the economic shocks caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine crisis. Energy shortages arising from these two shocks are leading to increased usage of fossil fuels, at least in the short term. Higher energy prices have pushed poorer consumers out of energy markets – and thus into energy poverty and deprivation. Slower global growth and higher inflation also will reduce financial resources available for green investments, especially in lower-income countries. The global challenge is to continue the green transition while ensuring that lower-income countries have access to affordable energy. Another important issue is taxonomy – a common definition for green, renewable and sustainable projects will facilitate financial flows towards these sectors. As a group that represents the world’s largest economies, the G20 is well placed to act on these issues. India’s G20 Presidency provides the opportunity to highlight the concerns of the developing world, the challenges of functioning democracies, and potential solutions. This Task Force offers recommendations for the G20.
Topic:
Climate Change, G20, Finance, Green Transition, and Energy Transition
Political Geography:
India and Global Focus

2. Regulating Big Tech: A Balancing Act

Author:
Ambika Khanna, Blaise Fernandes, Manjeet Kripalani, and Kartik Ashta
Publication Date:
07-2021
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
Big Tech is powerful and its profits are growing - by 105% over the last year. It dominates economies. This raises concerns about data protection and privacy, anti-trust, fintech and the specific role of intermediaries. India is leading the way on fintech, but is behind several countries and institutions on digital rules. It is important to establish laws and rules to govern technology – whether domestic or through multilateral bodies – with the aim to strike the right balance between innovation and regulation.
Topic:
Science and Technology, Regulation, Finance, Economy, Innovation, Industry, and Digital Revolution
Political Geography:
South Asia and India

3. Quad Economy and Technology Task Force Report

Author:
Gateway House
Publication Date:
08-2021
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
Conceived in 2020, the task force studied promising areas for cooperation between the Quad countries beyond their pre-existing maritime security partnership. The report highlights the need to increase economic and technological interdependence among the Quad countries and to establish common and updated rules and standards for emerging technologies in five study areas. The unique mix of the group – three developed and one developing nation, three Pacific and one Indian Ocean nation, three producer-trading nations with one massive emerging market – lends itself to innovation, experimentation and cooperation that can be a template for a new, post-pandemic geopolitical era.
Topic:
Climate Change, International Cooperation, Science and Technology, Economy, Vaccine, and COVID-19
Political Geography:
Japan, India, Australia, and United States of America

4. Unfinished Connectivity in the Bay of Bengal

Author:
Amit Bhandari, Sagnik Chakraborty, Naren Punjabi, and Gitanjoli Dasgupta
Publication Date:
10-2021
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
The Bay of Bengal is a bridge between the Indo-Pacific and the Indian Ocean, and with a population of 1.4 billion, an increasingly important economic zone in its own right. India has been slow to build regional connectivity. The space has been filled by China's Belt and Road Initiative projects, which have not always been beneficial for host countries. The region may be better off pursuing digital connectivity by enabling tech startups – areas of India’s strength. This research uses maps to explore the potential for energy, transport, and financial connectivity across the Bay of Bengal.
Topic:
Energy Policy, Science and Technology, Infrastructure, Regional Integration, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and Transportation
Political Geography:
China, South Asia, India, Indian Ocean, Indo-Pacific, and Bay of Bengal

5. Chinese investments in India

Author:
Amit Bhandari, Aashna Agarwal, and Blaise Fernandes
Publication Date:
03-2020
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
Over the last five years, China has quietly created a significant place for itself in India – in the technology domain. While India has refused to sign on to China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), this map shows India's positioning in the virtual BRI to be strategically invaluable for China. Nearly $4 billion in venture investments in start-ups, the online ecosystem and apps have been made by Chinese entities. This is just the beginning; there is much more to come.
Topic:
Science and Technology, Business, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and Investment
Political Geography:
China, South Asia, India, and Asia

6. Mainstreaming Natural Capital Valuation

Author:
Purvaja Modak
Publication Date:
04-2019
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
In a policy brief for Japan's G20 Presidency in 2019, Purvaja Modak, Akshay Mathur and K.N. Vaidyanathan discuss the need to encourage the development and adoption of processes and methods that can quantify the costs of using natural resources
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
India

7. Preparing for Climate Intervention Decision Making in the Global South: A Role for Canada and India

Author:
Timiebi Aganaba-Jeanty
Publication Date:
03-2019
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
The use of climate intervention technologies has not taken into sufficient account the social dimensions of climate intervention research, which includes citizen participation and pooling of knowledge resources. To fill this lacuna, Canada and India can examine what participation in climate intervention research means in the context of an African country to be able to evolve a more international view; urge both countries to conduct national policy discussions on climate intervention research; and increase public awareness of climate intervention technologies
Topic:
Climate Change and International Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

8. Making Terrestrial Geoengineering Technologies Viable: An Opportunity for India-Canada Climate Leadership

Author:
Chaitanya Giri
Publication Date:
02-2019
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
The UN’s Paris Agreement is best known as the commitment by nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to slow the rise in global temperatures. But less-heralded provisions of the pact go further than that. In an acknowledgment that emissions-reduction alone will not resolve the unfolding climate crisis, a call has been made for the development of carbon sinks to remove gases already in the atmosphere. These less-heralded greenhouse gas removal technologies are essential to achieving the pact’s goal of keeping the global average surface temperature from rising more than the 1.5 degrees Celsius. These steps are also a key to ensuring that India and Canada meet their ambitious climate-action goals without suffering severe socio-economic and climatic harm.
Topic:
Climate Change and International Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

9. Partnering for Prosperity: India-Canada Collaboration to Curb Digital Black Markets

Author:
Sameer Patil
Publication Date:
02-2019
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
India and Canada face multiple common cyber security challenges. Not the least of these are digital black markets, where contraband and illegal services are bought and sold. These markets have abetted drug smuggling, facilitated cyber crimes and contributed to terrorist activities. Despite frequent security crackdowns, these marketplaces have proved to be resilient. This paper reviews the measures both India and Canada have taken to disrupt digital black markets and examines opportunities to expand current security cooperation strategies.
Topic:
International Affairs and Digital Economy
Political Geography:
Global Focus

10. Opportunities for Cooperative Cyber Security

Author:
Aaron Shull
Publication Date:
01-2019
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
While India and Canada are each individually taking steps to enhance their cyber security capacity, increased collaboration between the two countries in the realm of cyber security would increase systemic trust while creating opportunities to promote the nations’ strategic and economic interests. There are several similarities in the cyber security threats that both countries face, including being the subjects of attacks with suspected Chinese origins, and mutual concerns over terrorism and election manipulation
Topic:
International Security and International Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

11. U.S. sanctions on Russia and its impact on India

Author:
Rajika Bhandari
Publication Date:
07-2018
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
President Vladimir Putin is in India on a two-day state visit to India, his third trip to India during Prime Minister Modi’s term. A key agreement that has just been signed is the $5 billion deal for the S-400 air defence system. However, U.S. sanctions on Russia’s top defence manufacturers will be a hurdle in closing this agreement, making payments to Russia difficult and scaring away potential Indian partners, especially those with investments in the West. Gateway House looks at India’s options for successfully concluding this agreement without falling foul of American sanctions
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

12. The United States and India: Forging an Indispensable Democratic Partnership

Author:
Center for American Progress Task Force on U.S.-India Relations
Publication Date:
05-2018
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
The United States and India must forge an indispensable democratic partnership that can serve as a pillar of peace, prosperity, and democracy around the world
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

13. Mumbai-Shanghai Sister Cities Agreement: Challenges and Opportunities

Author:
Sifra Lentin
Publication Date:
05-2018
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
In light of our government's new understanding of the role that the sister cities relationship can play in envisioning urban projects in India, Gateway House's Mumbai History Fellow, Sifra Lentin, has readied a special report on the role and understanding of sister cities.
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

14. U.S. sanctions on Russia and its impact on India

Author:
Amit Bhandari and Chaitanya Giri
Publication Date:
01-2018
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
President Vladimir Putin is in India on a two-day state visit to India, his third trip to India during Prime Minister Modi’s term. A key agreement that has just been signed is the $5 billion deal for the S-400 air defence system. However, U.S. sanctions on Russia’s top defence manufacturers will be a hurdle in closing this agreement, making payments to Russia difficult and scaring away potential Indian partners, especially those with investments in the West. Gateway House looks at India’s options for successfully concluding this agreement without falling foul of American sanctions
Topic:
International Relations and Sanctions
Political Geography:
Russia and India

15. A global framework for tracing Beneficial Ownership

Author:
K N Vaidyanathan and Akshay Mathur
Publication Date:
01-2018
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
The cross-border flow of payments, remittances, aid and investments is integral for globalisation. Ensuring transparency in such cross-border financial transactions is critical for the stability of the global financial system. A key goal for policy-makers has been the necessity to identify beneficial ownership in multi-country financial transactions to protect against money laundering, terrorist financing and tax evasion, which have besieged developed and developing countries alike. Existing global efforts on tracing Beneficial Ownership are insufficient since verification is limited to self-disclosures and by national regulations. What is needed is a global framework to enable data exchange, cross-referencing, tracing and analysis of data on crossborder financial transactions.
Topic:
International Relations and International Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

16. Blue Economy Vision 2025: Harnessing Business Potential for India Inc and International Partners

Author:
FICCI Task Force
Publication Date:
05-2017
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
Blue Economy Vision 2025: Harnessing Business Potential for India Inc and International Partners is a pioneering effort by FICCI to sensitise India Inc about the growing global and regional emphasis on sustainability of harnessing the ocean resources. It makes a convincing argument that the oceans, with a current estimated asset value of US$ 24 trillion and an annual value addition of US$ 2.5 trillion, would continue to offer significant economic benefits both in the traditional areas of fisheries, transport, tourism and hydrocarbons as well as in the new fields of deep-sea mining, renewable energy, ocean biotechnology and many more, only if we integrate sustainable practices with our business models.
Topic:
International Political Economy
Political Geography:
Global Focus

17. Russia-India Energy Cooperation: Trade, Joint Projects, and New Areas

Author:
Amit Bhandari and Vasily Shikin
Publication Date:
10-2017
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
In 2017, Russia and India celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Over the years the two states have implemented a wide range of long-term and large-scale joint projects in energy sector, first and foremost in the nuclear area, making it one of the foundations of their special and privileged strategic partnership. However, in order to boost comprehensive ties and bring them to a new level corresponding to the changing global economic environment Russia and India are in need of innovative approaches in energy sector. The present paper is a result of Russian and Indian experts’ joint efforts to evaluate the potential of new collaboration formats and develop specific recommendations for enhancing cooperation.
Topic:
International Organization and International Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

18. A decentralized, consumer-driven model for the solar eco-system

Author:
Amit Bhandari
Publication Date:
01-2017
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
The transition to renewable energy is hampered by the lack of suitable, affordable products and specialised financing for its infrastructure. This infographic, as part of a policy brief put forth by Gateway House, set to be tabled at the 2017 Hamburg G20 conference, outlines an ecosystem to overcome these hurdles
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

19. Measuring cross-border trade in services by trading partner country and company

Author:
Akshay Mathur
Publication Date:
01-2017
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
Cross-border trade in services is increasingly the pre-eminent driver of growth for developed and developing countries alike. Service-related commitments are included in most of the new trade agreements. Effective policy-design however, is dependent on collection and presentation of accurate data. Inter-agency task forces of multilateral organizations such as UN, WTO, IMF and OECD have designed a framework to capture cross-border trade in services but data classification by partner trading company, partner trading country and by modes-of-supply, remains a challenge. The G20 can plug this gap through comprehensive information-collection and sharing
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

20. Beguiling Americans: a guide for Indian diplomats

Author:
Christine Fair
Publication Date:
05-2015
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
Pakistan continues to receive succour from its long-time ally, the U.S., despite blundering about in its neighbourhood unabashedly- be it through righteous indignation or through generous courtesies. The external affairs ministry needs to improve its approach towards U.S. officials who are visiting India in order to better its relation with the country.
Topic:
International Affairs
Political Geography:
Global Focus

21. Defence and India’s private sector

Author:
Sameer Patil
Publication Date:
05-2015
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
The government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pro-actively pursued India’s agenda of modernising and indigenising its defence sector by clearing several long-pending demands of the Indian military for equipment. India’s rapidly-obsolescing military hardware has made this push imperative—the ageing of the hardware has been prominently highlighted by a string of naval accidents in the last two years and the rapidly depleting strength of the air force squadron, with the de-induction of old aircraft and delays in inducting replacements. Externally, raging border disputes with China and Pakistan, and the growing presence of the Chinese Navy in the Indian Ocean region, continue to be threats that call for an updating of the Indian defence sector.
Topic:
Security, Defense Policy, Private Sector, and Modernization
Political Geography:
Pakistan, China, South Asia, and India

22. State-to-state diplomacy

Author:
S. Akbar Zaidi and Manjeet Kripalani
Publication Date:
10-2014
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
After a brief a spell of bonhomie marked by Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif attending Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony, the hostilities between the two countries have resumed. Amidst the backdrop of increased tensions on the LoC, Gateway House recommends some small, realistic steps forward through state-to-state diplomacy, to mend the bilateral
Topic:
Diplomacy
Political Geography:
Pakistan and India

23. Doordarshan Diplomacy

Author:
Gateway House
Publication Date:
10-2014
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
This report examines the current state of Doordarshan and formulates an agenda for transforming the channel into an effective foreign policy tool for India
Topic:
Diplomacy
Political Geography:
India

24. Policy Perspective: India’s curious stand at WTO

Author:
Rajrishi Singhal
Publication Date:
10-2014
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
India’s decision to block the Trade Facilitation Agreement at the World Trade Organisation in July was perplexing; the confusion was compounded because India was almost alone in its position. This policy perspective explains the reasons for India’s curious stand
Topic:
International Political Economy and International Trade and Finance
Political Geography:
India and Global Focus

25. India-Myanmar: A New Impetus

Author:
Gateway House
Publication Date:
02-2014
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
This report of Gateway House's Policy Trip to Myanmar recommends how India can participate in Myanmar’s emerging market and enhance India’s trade and strategic interests in Asia
Topic:
Foreign Policy
Political Geography:
India and Myanmar

26. India’s Liberal Agenda

Author:
Gateway House
Publication Date:
08-2013
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
This report examines whether traditional liberalism stands a chance in today’s India, where the individual’s role has been nearly subsumed by a dominant state seeking to be benefactor.
Topic:
International Relations and International Affairs
Political Geography:
India

27. India-Japan: Technological Roadblocks

Author:
Karan Pradhan
Publication Date:
06-2013
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
Policy Perspectives from Gateway House give an overview of a global issue that has implications for India’s policy-making and business community. This edition examines the gaps in India’s high technology trade with Japan and outlines ways to begin a more profitable relationship with the country
Topic:
Foreign Policy, Science and Technology, Bilateral Relations, and Business
Political Geography:
Japan, South Asia, and India

28. Shale gas: Negotiating new energy, export finance and environmental equations

Author:
Karan Pradhan
Publication Date:
07-2013
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
ndia is the second largest (after Mexico) client of the Export-Import Bank of the United States, with an $8.5 billion line of credit. The energy and petrochemicals sectors are the major beneficiaries. The discovery of shale gas and the development of related technology in the U.S., however, are likely to change the nature of the exports of energy products and technology to India. The financing to procure them will also be different, because the U.S is willing to compete with China on financial terms. Moreover, the shift from oil and compressed natural gas to shale can have a cascading negative impact on India’s environment, if opportunities in tapping alternative energy sources are neglected. Indian policy must balance the benefits of securing new technology and better financing for shale gas exploration within the country and from imports, with a firm commitment to renewable energy initiatives within the country.
Topic:
Environment, Gas, Finance, Exports, and Energy
Political Geography:
China, South Asia, India, and United States of America

29. The domestic dimensions of India’s international economic crisis

Author:
Karan Pradhan
Publication Date:
09-2013
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
As recently as three years ago, India was being hailed by the international community as an upcoming economic superpower along with China. Now, however, the country finds itself wading through a severe economic slowdown and at the precipice of a potential balance of payment crisis. The rupee plummeted to historic levels before a recent rally provided momentary relief. The declining foreign exchange reserves have led some experts to compare the situation with India’s 1991 crisis; a few even suggested that the country needs to consider seeking International Monetary Fund (IMF) loans. The Indian government’s economic mismanagement is largely to blame and there is no substitute for good governance. However, India’s business community has abdicated its role of providing the government with an independent opinion and pushing for critical reforms. Corporate India can play a leading role in pulling the country out of this mire by altering its own approach towards government inaction. This would include reforming Indian chambers of commerce and advocating for key measures such as stimulating domestic investment, better coordination between centre and state, and rethinking India’s energy policy. These largely domestic measures will have a wide-ranging impact on India’s international economic policy and financial standing.
Topic:
Reform, Finance, Economy, Business, and Economic Crisis
Political Geography:
South Asia and India

30. The India-Australia security engagement: Opportunities and challenges

Author:
David Brewster
Publication Date:
10-2013
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
India wants to take a leading strategic role throughout the Indian Ocean region and expand its strategic reach further into the Pacific. As Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has commented, India now sees itself as a “net security provider” to the region. But what will this mean in terms of India’s regional relationships? Over the last decade or more, India has spent a lot of money on modernising its defence forces. This includes buying aircraft carriers, submarines, and aircraft that will give India the ability to project power at longer distances. But India has given relatively less attention to developing closer security partnerships in the region, particularly with the middle states of the Indian Ocean. In many ways, the recognition of India as a regional leader will depend on the quality of these relationships. One of these relationships – between India and Australia – will become increasingly important to both countries. Indeed, there is an opportunity for them to develop a strategic partnership that effectively spans the Indo-Pacific. The two countries are the leading maritime powers among Indian Ocean states, they share many values and traditions, and their strategic interests are becoming increasingly aligned. Although the two countries have for long operated in largely separate strategic spheres, these are now converging. India has strategic interests throughout the Indo-Pacific and Australia is taking a much greater interest in the Indian Ocean region and in India, in particular. The shared strategic concerns include maritime security, the stability of the region, and the role of China. But while there are many opportunities to develop a close strategic partnership, there will also be challenges for both sides.
Topic:
Security, Foreign Policy, Bilateral Relations, Partnerships, Engagement, and Regional Politics
Political Geography:
South Asia, India, Australia, and Indo-Pacific

31. India’s Strategic Imperative in the South Pacific

Author:
Tevita Motulalo
Publication Date:
10-2013
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
As the global centre of gravity shifts to the Indo-Pacific, triggered in part by Chinese expansion and the U.S.’s Pacific “rebalancing,” an expanding Indian engagement with the South Pacific becomes a geoeconomic and geostrategic imperative. The South Pacific sits at the “pivot” of the Pacific rebalancing. It is a largely stable region with a relatively small population; it has abundant resources (the Exclusive Economic Zone of the country of Kiribati alone is 3.5 million square kilometres, greater than the total land and maritime EEZ area of India); it is at the crossroads of vibrant and growing maritime trade routes; and it is increasingly strategically located. Under the “one country, one vote” rule of most international fora, the 14 Pacific Island Countries (PICs) play a significant role in deciding international institutional legitimacy, which is increasingly important for India as it seeks a greater role in global affairs. There is enormous scope for closer economic, political, and strategic ties between India and the South Pacific. Ties between the two are already friendly and age-old, with myriad cultural compatibilities. But if India continues to neglect the region, it will become increasingly difficult for India to maintain, or to regain, a toehold, while other powers like China manoeuvre for, and establish, entrenched positions. Just one example of India’s low-key engagement in the region: it has only two High Commissions in the 14 PICs. One is in Fiji, because of its sizable Indian diaspora, the other is in Papua New Guinea, because of trade and minerals. India routinely goes unrepresented at regional meetings held in the other 12 PICs. In contrast, China has a major diplomatic mission in almost every PIC. India and the PICs are natural partners which only need to 6 build the right bridges to come together to make the South Pacific and thereby the greater Indo-Pacific more economically, politically, and strategically secure. Others have already realised the region’s potential and are moving fast. The question is: Will India catch the South Pacific wave, or be washed over by it?
Topic:
Foreign Policy, Economy, Regional Integration, and Strategic Engagement
Political Geography:
South Asia, India, and South Pacific

32. Intellectual Property Rights: Innovation, Accessibility and Public Interest

Author:
Trupti Sarode and Malik Hirani
Publication Date:
06-2013
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
The Supreme Court of India’s judgment in the Novartis case has intensified concerns and dilemmas surrounding the prevailing global intellectual property rights (IPR) regime. In reality, the Supreme Court has only upheld an Indian law which conforms to the WTO framework. This case has done more than just highlight concerns about the affordability and accessibility of life-saving drugs. It has prompted an assessment of the global IPR framework in areas of entertainment, and communication and agricultural technologies among others. The verdict has underscored the need for new business models that can cater to humanitarian compulsions of accessibility and also nurture the knowledge commons in ways that boost greater innovation and invention.
Topic:
Intellectual Property/Copyright, Business, Innovation, and Public Health
Political Geography:
South Asia and India

33. BRICS: The new Syndicate

Author:
Gateway House
Publication Date:
09-2012
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
This bi-annual report includes features written exclusively (unless mentioned otherwise) for Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations by various contributors, and Gateway House staff, from January-July 2012.
Topic:
Global Political Economy
Political Geography:
Russia, China, India, and Brazil

34. India and the BRICS

Author:
Gateway House
Publication Date:
03-2012
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
Over the last decade, countries known under the emerging markets acronym of BRICS, have begun to seriously define their common interests and values. Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa have held three summits so far – in Russia, Brazil and China. On March 29, they will meet again, this time in New Delhi, with the goal of addressing the global economic condition, reforming financial and regulatory institutions and improving cooperation with each other on a host of international issues from starting a BRICS development bank to interchanging high tech skills. While these issues directly impact them, they also affect much of the developing world. Though different in size and resources, the BRICS nations as a group are massive: they account for 45% of the world population, 25% of global GDP and 50% of recent global growth. Together, they have the potential to create a future model for others. As an independent market-focused Indian think tank, Gateway House has been deeply invested in the future of India and its BRICS counterparts. What is the best way to develop affordable housing for large population nations? What is the best way to secure long term, manageable energy supplies? Can healthcare be delivered more efficiently, en masse, and to remote regions? How much sustained growth is required to making one of these large nations succeed? How can the inflation-growth trade-off be managed? Is there a better way to produce and deliver food than with only large scale enterprise? Can the BRICS be lenders of best resort for each other? How to best take advantage of the globalization of technology? The summaries of research papers in this booklet begin to offer some answers. In “India-Brazil: Pioneers of a new development agenda,” researcher Estefanía Marchán examines the possibilities for India to bring affordable housing technology to Brazil, while Brazil offers its experience with programmes to develop profitable small farms and deliver cash payments with modern networks to the poor. Marchan then looks at how the lessons from India-Brazil cooperation might be passed on with good results to Africa. In “India-Russia: Taking each other seriously,” Russia Studies research fellow Katherine Foshko looks at why a once-healthy India-Russia relationship has gone into quietude and suggests that a tech revival should be advanced. “Information technology in particular is an area where India should capitalize on the plethora of educated and talented Russian professionals and Russia can benefit from the size as well as the expertise of the Indian labor pool,” she writes. Similarly, K. N. Vaidyanathan, the former executive director of India’s Securities and Exchange Board and senior Geo-economics Fellow, makes a case that India’s careful, deliberate approach to permitting financial derivatives on its exchanges protected it from the ravages of the 2008 global crash. It has created a model for BRICS and other developing countries, which are seeking to grow while insulating their financial markets from global shocks. Renu Modi, an professor at the University of Mumbai who directed its African Studies Center, points out that while South Africa might have been inducted into the BRIC’s club as a “gift”, its greater as a gateway to the 1-billion-person African continent. There are also cautionary notes. The two largest nations, Indian and China, are both experiencing slower growth, but their outcomes couldn’t be more different, write Gateway House executive director Manjeet Kripalani and adviser Bob Dowling. China is engineering a slowdown to encourage a consumer economy but India is heading for a dangerous stall that must be reversed. Meanwhile, researcher Samir N. Kapadia explains that while China is a friendly banker to BRICS, its lending comes with strings attached.
Topic:
Development, GDP, Economy, and BRICS
Political Geography:
Russia, China, South Asia, India, South Africa, and Brazil

35. 9/11: Ten Years Later

Author:
Gateway House
Publication Date:
09-2011
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
On September 12, 2001, a day after 9/11, the Times of India published a story titled, ―India hopes U.S. will now pressurise Pak.‖ At the time, this relayed a common national sentiment – India may finally get the United States to become a close ally against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, and help India in eradicating terrorism. Ten years hence, neither has the U.S. taken a position against Pakistan, nor has India prepared itself better to fight terrorism and insurgency on its home ground. A massive explosion at the Delhi High Court this week left at least 14 dead and some 60 injured. It served as a horrific reminder that India continues to be at the receiving end of terrorism. This is the third major terrorist attack in Delhi since 9/11, following the one on Parliament on December 2001 and another at the Sarojini Nagar Market in October 2005. Mumbai has seen similar attacks with the serial blasts in March 1993, train bombings in July 2006, the 26/11 attacks of November 2008 and coordinate attacks of July 2011. Many more such incidents have taken place across the country in smaller cities like Jaipur and Pune. Yet, rather than designing and executing ways to secure our borders, we remain enamored with the effects of 9/11 and anniversaries of attacks in London, Madrid, and elsewhere. The government‘s response is the same – they had some intelligence, law enforcement was in a state of alert, but there was no actionable intelligence, and of course, somewhere along the chain of command between the Home Minister and the constable on the street, our counter-terrorism strategy was never converted into skills or systems that would prove useful. The usually communicative, media-friendly politicians have no comment to give, reflecting only their incapability or worse, indifference. The media gives it due importance for 24 hours, then in the absence of any new information from the government or the public, moves on to other news-worthy items.
Topic:
Security, Foreign Policy, Terrorism, Borders, and 9/11
Political Geography:
Pakistan, South Asia, India, and United States of America

36. India-Brazil: Combating the double disease burden

Author:
Mohit Nair and Abhijeet Deshmukh
Publication Date:
11-2011
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
When the term BRIC was first coined in 2001, Brazil and India were reputed as two leading emerging markets with tremendous growth potential. While both nations have sustained high growth rates for almost a decade, both are increasingly facing the onerous double disease burden that could prove to be economically and socially crippling if left unchecked. The double disease burden refers to the rise of communicable and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Inefficient healthcare delivery systems and high rates of urbanization have contributed to periodic rises in communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria and HIV. At the same time, as life expectancy increases in both nations, there has been a concomitant hike in the prevalence of NCDs such as cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This double disease burden is a common characteristic of developing nations and the increasing morbidity and loss of economic activity has the risk of hampering economic growth. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the estimated loss in income from heart disease, stroke and diabetes alone was $8.7 billion in India and $2.7 billion in Brazil in 2005. This is expected to increase to $54 billion in India and $9.3 billion in Brazil by 2015. By implementing proper policy measures, both Brazil and India can avoid a health care catastrophe and serve as a model for developing nations. There is no doubt that Brazil has outperformed India in terms of controlling the spread of communicable diseases. Yet, challenges remain. While rates of HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis are comparatively lower in Brazil than in India, rates of dengue fever in Brazil are six times higher than they were in the 1990s, with 3.5 million cases in the last decade and no available vaccine (Barreto et. al, 2011). Control of neglected tropical diseases such as visceral leishmaniasis is also currently very poor. India has an even more unsettling disease profile with major diseases like tuberculosis responsible for more than 300,000 deaths per year. In addition, while the government boasts a reduction in prevalence rates of HIV/AIDS, it is still home to over 2.4 million HIV/AIDS patients. Equally worrying is the monumental rise in rates of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. According to the WHO, non-communicable diseases currently cause 35 million deaths per year and 80 percent of these occur in low- or middle-income countries (World Diabetes Foundation 2010). India will incur an accumulated loss of over $200 billion due to non-communicable diseases by 2015, and Brazil will see an estimated loss of $49.2 billion due to diabetes and cardiovascular disease alone (World Diabetes Foundation 2010). It is clear that Brazil and India will not be able to achieve the Millennium Development Goals by 2015 unless the double disease burden and associated challenges of alleviating the rising economic and human costs are addressed. Overall, Brazil’s efforts and programs have been more effective than India’s. Brazil’s acceptance of health care as a constitutional right for all citizens in 1988, regardless of their ability to pay, has led to groundbreaking health care reforms by the Brazilian government. Its HIV/AIDS program has served as an exemplar of government intervention. In the 1990s, the World Bank had estimated that 1.2 million people would be living with AIDS in Brazil by 2000, but in reality, the actual figure was less than 600,000 due to effective government intervention (Avert n.d.). India however, still struggles with a lack of effective communication between federal, state and municipal governments and woeful implementation of health coverage across sectors. Since India has a disproportionate share (21 percent) of the global disease burden, it is essential that it learn from Brazil a country that has achieved several significant milestones in addressing the health care needs of its citizens who are below the poverty line. India could adopt similar health care strategies to promote collaboration between the two nations to combat the double disease burden.
Topic:
Development, International Cooperation, Infectious Diseases, Health Care Policy, and Public Health
Political Geography:
South Asia, India, Brazil, and South America

37. Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India Pipeline Possibility or Pipe Dream?

Author:
Madhura Joshi
Publication Date:
11-2011
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
Oil was the fuel of the 20th century. But depleting sources, volatility of prices and environmental concerns have made it imperative to look for alternate fuels. Natural gas provides one such solution for these concerns. Natural gas has a lower environmental impact than oil, emitting 30% less carbon dioxide, is generally priced at a fraction of the price of crude, and given its suitability as a substitute for oil in industries, makes it an attractive alternative to oil. Natural gas emits 45% less carbon dioxide than coal, making it an equally attractive substitute to iti. With the rapid depletion of most fuel sources, the need to tap into existing and unexplored natural gas reserves has become central to the energy debate. In order to secure a constant source of supply of natural gas to India, the Government of India is looking into the ambitious Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) pipeline. This will be an addition to the existing domestic production and LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) imports. This project has been in the pipeline for the last 15 years though India signed on to it in early 2008. Since this pipeline passes through Afghanistan and Pakistan, both restive regions, security concerns have triggered wide debate on its viability. This paper briefly looks at the position of natural gas in the world vis-à-vis other fuels. The paper also elaborates on the economics and politics of the TAPI pipeline to conclude that this will remain a very tempting but unfortunately, a ‘Forever Project’ where discussions can go on for years without any concrete results. The paper advocates caution given the tumultuous times prevalent in Afghanistan and Pakistan and lists alternate options and possible courses of action for India.
Topic:
Security, Energy Policy, Gas, and Pipeline
Political Geography:
Pakistan, Afghanistan, South Asia, Central Asia, India, and Turkmenistan

38. Good Regulation is Good Governance 101

Author:
K N Vaidyanathan
Publication Date:
12-2011
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
In 1925, at the time that Britain reverted to the gold standard, Winston Churchill, then Chancellor, said that he would like to see ‘finance less proud and industry more secure.’ The move was criticized by economists for overvaluation of the British Pound; but the quote was prescient and is especially relevant today, when the hubris of the financial markets has fractured the global economy so excessively. Course correction so far has relied on bailouts. Instead what is immediately needed is the observance of good governance in regulation and in the long term, a restructuring of the regulatory architecture. Key to this is the recovery of ground lost by the regulator in ensuring market integrity, reinforcement of the currency of financial markets viz., trust, and deliverance of market stability which will help the underlying economy and the society at large. In sum: ensuring good regulation through good governance. This is the challenge before regulators today. The impact and import of the global financial crisis can be judged by two simple numbers: global market capitalization and GDP growth. (Source – the World Federation of Exchanges www.world-exchanges.org data.worldbank.org), They grew from $17.1 trillion and $27.5 trillion in 1990 to $ 64.5 trillion and $ 63.2 trillion, in 2007 respectively. A year later, market capitalization had almost halved to $ 33.5 trillion while GDP growth fell from over 5% to 3% in 2008 and -0.5% in 2009. The crisis that surfaced in 2007 has already peaked twice, in 2008 and 2011, and is far from over. In every analysis, financial market regulators have been accused of sleeping at their desks, held captive by the industry, remaining benign as the party went on and even abetting the excesses both wittingly and unwittingly.
Topic:
Markets, Governance, Regulation, Economy, and Global Financial Crisis
Political Geography:
Global Focus

39. 9/11: Ten Years Later

Author:
Gateway House
Publication Date:
09-2011
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
On September 12, 2001, a day after 9/11, the Times of India published a story titled, ―India hopes U.S. will now pressurise Pak.‖ At the time, this relayed a common national sentiment – India may finally get the United States to become a close ally against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, and help India in eradicating terrorism. Ten years hence, neither has the U.S. taken a position against Pakistan, nor has India prepared itself better to fight terrorism and insurgency on its home ground. A massive explosion at the Delhi High Court this week left at least 14 dead and some 60 injured. It served as a horrific reminder that India continues to be at the receiving end of terrorism. This is the third major terrorist attack in Delhi since 9/11, following the one on Parliament on December 2001 and another at the Sarojini Nagar Market in October 2005. Mumbai has seen similar attacks with the serial blasts in March 1993, train bombings in July 2006, the 26/11 attacks of November 2008 and coordinate attacks of July 2011. Many more such incidents have taken place across the country in smaller cities like Jaipur and Pune. Yet, rather than designing and executing ways to secure our borders, we remain enamored with the effects of 9/11 and anniversaries of attacks in London, Madrid, and elsewhere. The government‘s response is the same – they had some intelligence, law enforcement was in a state of alert, but there was no actionable intelligence, and of course, somewhere along the chain of command between the Home Minister and the constable on the street, our counter-terrorism strategy was never converted into skills or systems that would prove useful. The usually communicative, media-friendly politicians have no comment to give, reflecting only their incapability or worse, indifference. The media gives it due importance for 24 hours, then in the absence of any new information from the government or the public, moves on to other news-worthy items.
Topic:
Security, Terrorism, Counter-terrorism, and 9/11
Political Geography:
Pakistan, South Asia, India, and United States of America

40. India-Brazil: Combating the double disease burden

Author:
Mohit Nair and Abhijeet Deshmukh
Publication Date:
11-2011
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
Today, both India and Brazil face the risk of an increase in communicable and non-communicable diseases, given the inefficient healthcare delivery systems. How can these nations help each other implement policy changes – to weed out hiccups to healthcare systems – and serve as a model for developing nations? When the term BRIC was first coined in 2001, Brazil and India were reputed as two leading emerging markets with tremendous growth potential. While both nations have sustained high growth rates for almost a decade, both are increasingly facing the onerous double disease burden that could prove to be economically and socially crippling if left unchecked. The double disease burden refers to the rise of communicable and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Inefficient healthcare delivery systems and high rates of urbanization have contributed to periodic rises in communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria and HIV. At the same time, as life expectancy increases in both nations, there has been a concomitant hike in the prevalence of NCDs such as cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This double disease burden is a common characteristic of developing nations and the increasing morbidity and loss of economic activity has the risk of hampering economic growth. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the estimated loss in income from heart disease, stroke and diabetes alone was $8.7 billion in India and $2.7 billion in Brazil in 2005. This is expected to increase to $54 billion in India and $9.3 billion in Brazil by 2015. By implementing proper policy measures, both Brazil and India can avoid a health care catastrophe and serve as a model for developing nations.
Topic:
Development, Health, World Health Organization, Infectious Diseases, and Public Policy
Political Geography:
South Asia, India, Brazil, and South America

41. Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India Pipeline Possibility or Pipe Dream?

Author:
Gateway House
Publication Date:
11-2011
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
Oil was the fuel of the 20th century. But depleting sources, volatility of prices and environmental concerns have made it imperative to look for alternate fuels. Natural gas provides one such solution for these concerns. Natural gas has a lower environmental impact than oil, emitting 30% less carbon dioxide, is generally priced at a fraction of the price of crude, and given its suitability as a substitute for oil in industries, makes it an attractive alternative to oil. Natural gas emits 45% less carbon dioxide than coal, making it an equally attractive substitute to iti. With the rapid depletion of most fuel sources, the need to tap into existing and unexplored natural gas reserves has become central to the energy debate. In order to secure a constant source of supply of natural gas to India, the Government of India is looking into the ambitious Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) pipeline. This will be an addition to the existing domestic production and LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) imports. This project has been in the pipeline for the last 15 years though India signed on to it in early 2008. Since this pipeline passes through Afghanistan and Pakistan, both restive regions, security concerns have triggered wide debate on its viability. This paper briefly looks at the position of natural gas in the world vis-à-vis other fuels. The paper also elaborates on the economics and politics of the TAPI pipeline to conclude that this will remain a very tempting but unfortunately, a ‘Forever Project’ where discussions can go on for years without any concrete results. The paper advocates caution given the tumultuous times prevalent in Afghanistan and Pakistan and lists alternate options and possible courses of action for India.
Topic:
Security, Energy Policy, Oil, Gas, Volatility, and Energy Crisis
Political Geography:
Pakistan, Afghanistan, South Asia, India, and Turkmenistan

42. 26/11 Reflections

Author:
Gateway House
Publication Date:
11-2011
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
In this compendium of essays, Gateway House examines the terrorist attack carried out on Mumbai on 26 November 2008, and its aftermath. It has been three years since 26th November, when terrorists attacked Mumbai’s monuments and its self-esteem. Life has resumed for the Mumbaikar, as always. But many questions remain, unanswered. Gateway House has attempted to analyse the event and its aftermath. We asked experts and ordinary individuals from around the world to bring in their unique perspectives. In a series of 13 essays, we examine the following: How did the ordinary Pakistani feel as she/he watched the towers of the Taj burn? Why didn’t the United Nations respond to 26/11 the way it did after 9/11? Should New York heed the warning of 26/11? What does Washington’s double-standards in South Asia mean for us? Should we change our strategy on Pakistan – or is it now the right time for Pakistan to change its strategy towards us? Are we better equipped in terms of defence equipment and maritime security? What can our security structures learn from our corporations? Are we entitled to the Right to Security, the way we are to education and food? What are the human rights of terrorism’s victims? Have we really cared for those who suffered on account of terrorism? Why is justice so delayed in India and what does it mean for terrorism?
Topic:
Security, Terrorism, Counter-terrorism, and Borders
Political Geography:
Pakistan, South Asia, India, and Mumbai

43. Good Regulation is Good Governance 101

Author:
K N Vaidyanathan
Publication Date:
12-2011
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
There is an immediate need for observance of good governance in regulation and a restructuring of the regulatory architecture. Key to this is the recovery of ground lost by the regulator in ensuring market integrity. In 1925, at the time that Britain reverted to the gold standard, Winston Churchill, then Chancellor, said that he would like to see ‘finance less proud and industry more secure.’ The move was criticized by economists for overvaluation of the British Pound; but the quote was prescient and is especially relevant today, when the hubris of the financial markets has fractured the global economy so excessively. Course correction so far has relied on bailouts. Instead what is immediately needed is the observance of good governance in regulation and in the long term, a restructuring of the regulatory architecture. Key to this is the recovery of ground lost by the regulator in ensuring market integrity, reinforcement of the currency of financial markets viz., trust, and deliverance of market stability which will help the underlying economy and the society at large. In sum: ensuring good regulation through good governance. This is the challenge before regulators today. The impact and import of the global financial crisis can be judged by two simple numbers: global market capitalization and GDP growth. (Source – the World Federation of Exchanges www.world-exchanges.org data.worldbank.org), They grew from $17.1 trillion and $27.5 trillion in 1990 to $ 64.5 trillion and $ 63.2 trillion, in 2007 respectively. A year later, market capitalization had almost halved to $ 33.5 trillion while GDP growth fell from over 5% to 3% in 2008 and -0.5% in 2009. The crisis that surfaced in 2007 has already peaked twice, in 2008 and 2011, and is far from over. In every analysis, financial market regulators have been accused of sleeping at their desks, held captive by the industry, remaining benign as the party went on and even abetting the excesses both wittingly and unwittingly.
Topic:
Economics, Financial Crisis, Governance, Regulation, Central Bank, and Caste
Political Geography:
South Asia and India

44. A winning strategy for the North East

Author:
Akshay Mathur
Publication Date:
07-2011
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
This paper examines the political & economic landscape of North East India and explains how diplomacy, policing and development brought peace to Assam and the North-East. For most Indians, the North East (NE) has remained largely on the fringes of our sense of India as well as on the periphery of its geography. This is partly because India has ignored the region politically and economically for a long time, and partly because the complex social and cultural dynamics have made it difficult to integrate the region with the rest of the country. Now, however, India ignores it at its own peril. India can never achieve sustained high economic growth or become a powerful integrated nation if it continues to think of developing NE as a rural infrastructure project. It is a region of seven states – Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura that has four international borders—China, Myanmar, Bangladesh and Bhutan— and accounts for a major source of hydrocarbons (oil and gas), coal, limestone, tea, bamboo and other resources. The successful triumvirate of diplomacy, policing and development in Assam has brought the ULFA to the point of peace negotiations. This has renewed hope for sustained peace and a fresh economic opportunity in Assam. It is now time to cement peace and define a new vision for the region. A big, bold, tangible, all-encompassing strategy is suggested to kick-start an economic revolution in the NE using domestic businesses and partnerships neighbouring South East Asian countries. The paper uses the model of the Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC), a Rs. 400,995 Crores ($90 billion) effort funded jointly by Government of India and Government of Japan to make western India in to an economic powerhouse. Part 1 of this paper examines the political and economic landscape of the region and explains how diplomacy, policing and development brought peace to Assam and to NE at large. Part 2 proposes a bold economic plan for the future with Thailand as partner.
Topic:
Development, Diplomacy, Economics, Infrastructure, Peace, and Police
Political Geography:
South Asia, India, and Myanmar

45. Environmental diplomacy: Saving the Sundarbans and restoring the India-Bangladesh relationship

Author:
Shloka Nath
Publication Date:
08-2011
Content Type:
Special Report
Institution:
Gateway House: Indian Council on Global Relations
Abstract:
Gateway House’s Shloka Nath examines the causes of disagreements between India and Bangladesh, and makes recommendations to resolve them – which can lead to an intelligent management and protection of the Sunderbans. In January 2010, Jairam Ramesh, then India’s energetic Environment Minister, while on a visit to Kolkata, displayed once again his penchant for the big idea. Together with his counterpart from Bangladesh, he announced both countries were joining hands to protect the Sundarbans from environmental degradation and stated that the proposed Indo-Bangladesh Sundarbans Eco-System Forum, which is currently in the planning stages, will be made functional by the second half of 2011. In October 2010, a draft protocol to be signed by both nations was approved by the Bangladesh cabinet at a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Using bilateral environmental concerns to foster broader regional cooperation is an innovative idea and the first of its kind for India and Bangladesh. For both countries, this is a unique foreign policy opportunity. In an exclusive interview with Gateway House in September 2010, Ramesh said, “Environmental diplomacy and environmental cooperation can often be triggers for enhancing broader regional cooperation. It helps to build trust, gets your people working with each other, learning from each other, and breaking down barriers. I hope to see more of this going forward.” The timing of the statement could not have been better; if the aspiration of Jairam Ramesh can be realised, not only will the fractious Indo-Bangla relationship be repaired, but the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest spanning a vast territory of over 10,000 sq. km. can also be saved. Sitting on the sensitive border between India and Bangladesh, the Sundarbans is one of the most endangered eco-systems in the world. Approximately 60 percent lies in Bangladesh and 40 percent in India. The problems that surround it have the potential to advance the relationship between these two important South Asian neighbours; given the magnitude of the difficulties, the converse is equally true.
Topic:
Climate Change, Diplomacy, Environment, Regional Cooperation, Territorial Disputes, Water, Refugees, and Maritime
Political Geography:
Bangladesh, South Asia, and India