
All Things Policy
Ever wondered how automation will change the world? Maybe you puzzle over what India could do to ease traffic congestion, or how China's aircraft carriers will transform Indian Ocean geopolitics? All Things Policy, a daily podcast brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, brings you all the answers. Every weekday, our researchers break down complex economic and geopolitical ideas through the lens of current events. For everyone from the busy executive to the curious student, All Things Policy is all you'll need to understand the world (and appreciate your breakfast) better.
Latest episodes

Jun 10, 2025 • 44min
Strengthening the Rule of Law: Role of the Finance Commission
In this episode of All Things Policy, Kripa Koshy (Programme Manager, Takshashila Institution) speaks to Surya Prakash (Programme Director and Fellow, DAKSH) and Rohith (Data Analyst, DAKSH) about the role of the Finance Commission in strengthening judicial reform. They discuss the budgeting process and the allocation of funds to the judiciary, and examine how fiscal decisions impact the functioning of India’s judicial system.'Introduction to Geospatial Science & Technology' - Join our 4-weekend expert capsule course starting June 14, designed to give you a solid foundation in geospatial science and technology— without disrupting your weekdays. Learn from top-notch experts covering critical topics and discover how geospatial tech can drive innovation across disciplines. Apply Now - school.takshashila.org.in/ecc-geospatialAll Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru.Find out more on our research and other work here: https://takshashila.org.in/...Check out our public policy courses here: https://school.takshashila.org.in

Jun 9, 2025 • 34min
For India's Tech Future: Scientific Investments We Can't Ignore
In an era prioritising rapid technological output, this episode explores a crucial counterbalance: the need for deep investment in fundamental science. There is a symbiotic relationship between science and technology, which brings with it societal values and thinking. Join Shambhavi Naik and Ashwin Prasad as they discuss why a robust scientific foundation is indispensable for India's aspirations. Further Reading: https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/opinion/technology-may-shine-but-it-is-science-that-will-fuel-india-s-rise-13053098.html 'Introduction to Geospatial Science & Technology' - Join our 4-weekend expert capsule course starting June 14, designed to give you a solid foundation in geospatial science and technology— without disrupting your weekdays. Learn from top-notch experts covering critical topics and discover how geospatial tech can drive innovation across disciplines. Apply by June 7 - school.takshashila.org.in/ecc-geospatialAll Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru.Find out more on our research and other work here: https://takshashila.org.in/...Check out our public policy courses here: https://school.takshashila.org.in

Jun 6, 2025 • 39min
Media Matters: You Are What You Consume
In this episode of All Things Policy, Manoj Kewalramani and Astha Rastogi unpack the shifting dynamics of media consumption — from the rise of emotional content and algorithmic curation to the erosion of trust in traditional news. Together, they explore what it means to engage meaningfully with media in an age of noise, distraction, and disinformation. 'Introduction to Geospatial Science & Technology' - Join our 4-weekend expert capsule course starting June 14, designed to give you a solid foundation in geospatial science and technology— without disrupting your weekdays. Learn from top-notch experts covering critical topics and discover how geospatial tech can drive innovation across disciplines. Apply by June 7 - school.takshashila.org.in/ecc-geospatialAll Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru.Find out more on our research and other work here: https://takshashila.org.in/...Check out our public policy courses here: https://school.takshashila.org.in

Jun 5, 2025 • 45min
Rethinking India's Nuclear Liability Regime
After a lull of many years, there’s so much happening in India’s nuclear energy sector this year. On 1 Feb 2025, when Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the first full budget of Modi 3.0, she made a major policy announcement related to nuclear energy: the intention to amend the liability law, also referred to as CLNDA in short. But what is this law about, why is it being amended? Would this amendment serve as a silver bullet for the Indian nuclear industry that has been stagnating for a long time now? In this episode of All Things Policy, Lokendra Sharma, a research analyst with Takshashila, discusses the various facets of nuclear liability with Parthasarathy and Siddharth, who just finished Takshashila’s Graduate Certificate in Public Policy. As part of this course, they examined nuclear liability in detail and made some recommendations on how to revise it. 'Introduction to Geospatial Science & Technology' - Join our 4-weekend expert capsule course starting June 14, designed to give you a solid foundation in geospatial science and technology— without disrupting your weekdays. Learn from top-notch experts covering critical topics and discover how geospatial tech can drive innovation across disciplines. Apply by June 7 - school.takshashila.org.in/ecc-geospatialAll Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru.Find out more on our research and other work here: https://takshashila.org.in/...Check out our public policy courses here: https://school.takshashila.org.in

Jun 4, 2025 • 36min
A Geospatial Lens on Bengaluru's Floods
In this discussion, Y. Nithiyanandam, head of the Geospatial Program at the Takshashila Institution, shares his expertise on urban flooding in Bengaluru. He highlights the critical role of geospatial technologies like maps, sensors, and AI in effective flood management. The conversation delves into the challenges posed by rapid urbanization and poor drainage systems. Innovative solutions such as amphibious vehicles and advanced monitoring tools are discussed, emphasizing community engagement and sustainable practices to build a flood-resilient city.

Jun 3, 2025 • 40min
How can India Engineer the Next-Gen Fighter?
Avinash Shet, an expert in high-tech geopolitics, discusses India's ambitions in aerospace, focusing on its fighter jet and engine programs. He highlights the need for a refined strategy to advance next-gen jet engines amid competitive global dynamics. The conversation covers the challenges facing the indigenous Kaveri program and the importance of forming strategic partnerships, particularly with countries like the US and Japan. Avinash emphasizes the crucial role of India's private sector in innovating and strengthening the nation's defense capabilities.

Jun 2, 2025 • 45min
What the Repeal of the AI Diffusion Framework Means for India and the World
The recent repeal of the AI diffusion framework raises important questions about international AI governance and the U.S.'s future role. The discussion dives into the clash between national security and economic interests as it relates to AI chip regulation. Tensions with competitors like China highlight the need for countries to bolster their independent tech capabilities. Moreover, the potential for increased cyber attacks and chip smuggling could reshape the industry, pushing for open-source chip designs to adapt to stricter export controls.

May 30, 2025 • 32min
China's Vision for National Security, Codified
In this episode of All Things Policy, Manoj Kewalramani and Anushka Saxena discuss the codification of China's security view and policy in its latest White Paper on National Security in the New Era. They analyse the key takeaways of the paper, including China's red lines, approach to the Asian regional order, and tensions with the West.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get a well-rounded learning experience. The curriculum is delivered online, punctuated with in-person workshops across India.https://school.takshashila.org.in/pgpAll Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru.Find out more on our research and other work here: https://takshashila.org.in/...Check out our public policy courses here: https://school.takshashila.org.in

May 29, 2025 • 48min
Beyond the Gated Walls: Bengaluru’s Samaj, Sarkar & Bazar
Every painted wall, pothole & traffic in Bengaluru has a story to tell. In this episode of All Things Policy, Pravar Choudhary of Bengawalks and I, Sowmya Prabhakar, COO of Takshashila Institution, take a stroll exploring the dynamics of the markets, society & government. From gated communities to badly designed footpaths, from heritage buildings to street art, we explore Bengaluru's soul.The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get a well-rounded learning experience. The curriculum is delivered online, punctuated with in-person workshops across India.https://school.takshashila.org.in/pgpAll Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru.Find out more on our research and other work here: https://takshashila.org.in/...Check out our public policy courses here: https://school.takshashila.org.in

May 28, 2025 • 34min
Forging the Future of India’s Airpower
We have much to be heartened about India’s air power capabilities in the recent India-Pak military escalations. However, this is not a time for complacency, and many challenges lie ahead. In this episode of All Things Policy, Shobhankita Reddy sits down with Aditya Ramanathan, Research Fellow with the Takshashila Institution, to unpack and understand the critical steps needed for future preparedness. Link to Aditya’s recent article - https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/blogs/toi-edit-page/two-analyses-on-weapons-systems-strategic-affairs-after-the-pause-in-conflict/The PGP is a comprehensive 48-week hybrid programme tailored for those aiming to delve deep into the theoretical and practical aspects of public policy. This multidisciplinary course offers a broad and in-depth range of modules, ensuring students get a well-rounded learning experience. The curriculum is delivered online, punctuated with in-person workshops across India.https://school.takshashila.org.in/pgpAll Things Policy is a daily podcast on public policy brought to you by the Takshashila Institution, Bengaluru.Find out more on our research and other work here: https://takshashila.org.in/...Check out our public policy courses here: https://school.takshashila.org.in