Electoral debates: where are the alternative visions?

Surprisingly, the debate on the key developmental issues is quite muted this time. There was a fresh thought recently articulated by the finance minister that whether GST council framework will work for fostering inter-state consensus at the federal level on agriculture, health, and rural development. This is an interesting argument because it means state subject … Continue reading →

Scaling up the spirit underlying grassroots innovation

An onion farmer from Maharashtra recognised three unique features in an odd onion plant selected from a traditional variety, Fursungi: a single whorl of leaves, more layers of skin, and no splitting of the outer layer (split skin will not be mixed with the rest for storage) led to a longer shelf life, disease-resistance, and … Continue reading →

Let the festival of democracy unleash positive energy for larger social good

Now that elections are announced, there will be a shower of promises, some will be fulfilled, many will not be and not always because of bad faith. After all, if only we promise less and deliver more, the politics of performance will take over. We will not have to raise any issue that may cause … Continue reading →

Redesigning policies for rural innovative start-ups: A saga of neglect

I don’t think anybody disagrees, that start-up movement has bypassed the rural regions. Not that entrepreneurial urge is low in rural areas, but the current start-up ecosystem is incapable of reaching the creative rural communities. Why would central and state policymakers be so diffident in reaching the rural, scattered, innovative entrepreneurs? There are several reasons … Continue reading →