All Things Policy

Anushka Saxena, a researcher at the Indo-Pacific Studies program at the Takshashila Institution, explores the complex dynamics surrounding the succession of the 14th Dalai Lama. She discusses the geopolitical implications of the Dalai Lama's comments about his potential successor being born outside of China. The conversation also highlights the divergent views of India and China's governments regarding the next Dalai Lama, and the potential legitimacy struggles that arise from this. Saxena provides insights on how this succession could impact regional Buddhism and diplomatic relations.

Anisree Suresh, a Research Associate with the GeoEconomics Program, sheds light on India's agricultural trade policies. She discusses the untapped export potential and the importance of calibrated liberalization and tariff easing. Anisree critiques the minimum support price system and explores how cultural influences affect agricultural regulations. They also delve into opportunities in the food processing industry, particularly with spices and shrimp, advocating for thoughtful trade agreements that benefit both exports and local farmers.

Vipul Anand, a consultant at the Bureau of Indian Standards and former ISRO scientist, discusses India's escalating flash flood challenges. He highlights the alarming rise of flash floods in northern regions like Uttarakhand, detailing their distinct characteristics compared to regular floods. The conversation emphasizes the critical role of the Indian Meteorological Department in enhancing predictive accuracy and early warning systems. With insights into urban flooding linked to glacial lakes, Anand advocates for tailored strategies and improved community engagement in disaster management.

In a captivating discussion, Kabir Taneja, Deputy Director at ORF, explores al-Qaeda's evolution since 9/11. He reveals how the group has shifted to a decentralized network with regional affiliates. Taneja delves into al-Qaeda's presence in the Indian subcontinent, particularly its struggles in Kashmir. The complexities of al-Qaeda's relationship with the Taliban post-2021 are also dissected, showcasing both the ideological ties and operational limitations. The conversation provides valuable insights into the ongoing relevance of al-Qaeda in a changing global landscape.

Anwesha Sen, a tech policy program manager and AI governance researcher, dives into India's sweeping ban on online real money gaming. The conversation highlights the ban's impact on the multi-billion dollar industry, discussing potential job losses and market regulation issues. They explore the rise of unregulated offshore platforms and the risk of a burgeoning black market. Sen emphasizes the importance of informed regulation over outright prohibition, questioning the motivations behind the ban and advocating for a balanced approach to policy.

Manoj Kewalramani, Chairperson at the Indo-Pacific Studies program of the Takshashila Institution and a China relations expert, dives into the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit. He discusses the summit's impact on a new global order, emphasizing the burgeoning Russia-India-China trilateral. Kewalramani analyzes India's strategic role, critiques media narratives, and explores emerging financial dynamics, including de-dollarization and local currency trade. The complexities of geopolitical tensions and regional security challenges are also critically examined.

Amanda Brock, CEO of OpenUK, brings 30 years of legal expertise to the table, advocating for open AI ecosystems. She discusses the pressing issue of AI sovereignty and the need for diverse representation in policy-making, especially from the Global South. The conversation delves into the challenges of centralized AI control and underscores the importance of open-source communities in promoting innovation. Brock highlights India's journey toward indigenous AI models, balancing digital sovereignty and collaboration against major tech firms.

Shobhankita Reddy, a research analyst at the Takshashila Institution, dives deep into China’s ascent as a tech superpower. The discussion reveals the tension between rapid growth and strict government control over private sectors like Alibaba. Reddy highlights the paradox of China’s tech innovation amidst geopolitical tensions, particularly with the U.S. She also addresses how Xi Jinping's leadership has shifted the balance towards a more centralized, techno-nationalistic state, replete with vulnerabilities that could impact its future.

In this engaging discussion, Arindam Goswami from the Takshashila Institution explores how geopolitics influences technology decisions. He highlights a U.S. company that halted services to an Indian oil refiner due to EU sanctions. The conversation dives into historical lessons of tech denial, emphasizing tech sovereignty in critical sectors. Goswami argues for a balance between collaboration in areas like climate tech and self-reliance in military technology. The costs of compliance and trust issues in evolving global standards also take center stage.

April Herlevi, an expert on Chinese security and foreign policy, dives deep into the geopolitical chess game between the U.S. and China. She discusses how China’s pan-securitization impacts global tech and economic exchanges. The conversation highlights tensions from the Trump era and the need for robust dialogue, especially regarding Taiwan and the South China Sea. Herlevi also sheds light on the internal purges in the Chinese military and the evolving landscape of U.S. national security strategies amid these challenges.