Explore the history of the nuclear arms race and the breakdown of arms control. Discover the challenges of students returning to in-person classes due to COVID-19. Uncover the impact of the pandemic on chronic absenteeism in US schools. Learn about the Namayatri app revolutionizing Rickshaw hailing in Bangalore. Engage in a discussion on an app for small businesses and government involvement.
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Quick takeaways
The uncertain future of nuclear arms control requires major powers to engage in dialogue, resume arms control talks, and reach agreements on limiting nuclear weapons.
Chronic absenteeism among American students, especially among low-income students, requires addressing root causes such as financial and logistical challenges and providing support through social services, childcare, and other resources to encourage attendance and engagement in education.
Deep dives
The Future of Nuclear Arms Control
The future of nuclear arms control is uncertain as international treaties are expiring and major powers like the United States, Russia, and China are engaged in a complex and potentially destabilizing arms race. Factors such as the war in Ukraine, the rise of China's nuclear stockpile, the breakdown of arms control agreements, and advancements in missile technology and artificial intelligence contribute to the increasing unpredictability and danger. To prevent a further escalation, it is crucial for the major powers to engage in dialogue, resume arms control talks, and reach agreements on limiting nuclear weapons.
Persistent Absenteeism in American Schools
Despite the reopening of schools, chronic absenteeism among American students has become a significant problem. A Stanford University study found that 28% of school children in the 2021-2022 academic year missed at least three weeks of school, nearly doubling pre-pandemic rates. This absenteeism disproportionately affects low-income students. The trend continues, with enrollment declines and a rise in homeschooling. To address this issue, it is crucial to understand the root causes, such as financial and logistical challenges, and provide support through social services, childcare, and other resources to encourage attendance and engagement in education.
Namayatri: The App Improving Rickshaw Services in Bangalore
In Bangalore, the traffic congestion problem is compounded by the difficulty of hailing rickshaws and tuk-tuks. However, the launch of the Namayatri app by the local Rickshaw drivers union has improved the experience for both riders and drivers. Unlike ride-hailing apps like Ola and Uber, Namayatri charges no commission, allowing for direct transactions between drivers and riders. Since its launch in November, the app has gained popularity, averaging 70,000 trips per day with over 80,000 drivers and 1.5 million customers. The success of this app demonstrates how leveraging technology and direct connections can enhance transportation services and benefit both drivers and passengers.
The calculus of the cold war is back, but there are new variables in the equation—namely China’s growing arsenal. We look at how three-way deterrence could work. Two years after America’s schools reopened their doors, a terrifying proportion of students are still skipping class (10:13). And what a slew of rickshaw apps says about India’s technological backbone (15:38).
For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, try a free 30-day digital subscription by going to www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer
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