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Category: India

  • Centre Defends Revised SO₂ Emission Norms for Coal Plants as Cost‑Effective and Climate‑Coherent

    Centre Defends Revised SO₂ Emission Norms for Coal Plants as Cost‑Effective and Climate‑Coherent

    India, already one of the world’s top sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emitters, has now moved to exempt nearly 80% of its coal-fired power plants from installing key pollution control systems – sparking widespread concern among environmentalists and public health experts. On 17 July 2025, India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has staunchly defended its decision to relax sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emission norms on installing flue gas desulfurisation (FDG) systems for coal and lignite-based thermal power plants, describing the move as ‘cost-effective’ and ‘scientifically justified’. The new revised framework has now exempted approximately 78% of thermal plants from installing FGD systems, with exceptions.

    Background & Challenges Faced 

    In 2015, the MoEFCC introduced new emission norms for coal- and lignite-based thermal power plants to curb air pollution. A key requirement was the installation of FGD units, which are a pollution control technology that removes sulphur dioxide from gases of the power plant, leading to a reduction in harmful emissions into the atmosphere. This move was part of India’s broader effort to reduce ambient air pollution and align with global environmental standards.

    However, for the communities living near the thermal plants, these policies were essential for their survival. Residents near Chhattisgarh’s Korba region, home to one of India’s densest coal power belts, who are already battling chronic coughs, fear that this rollback would choke them further.

    All thermal plants were given two years to install these; however, by 2024, only 8% of 180 thermal power plants had installed FGDs. Multiple extensions were granted due to technical, financial, and logistical hurdles, including high costs, limited vendors, and supply chain issues.

    While studies show sulphur dioxide contributes only 1–5% to overall PM₂.₅ levels, studies caution that even at the lower end of this range, the impact on human health is significant. India sees around 19.5% of daily deaths and 1.67 million annual deaths – a figure that makes the health implications of rolling back SO₂ norms impossible to ignore.

    What has changed?

    Under the new framework, thermal power plants are now classified into three categories based on how close they are to populated places and their pollution load. Category A plants are those situated within 10 km of cities in the National Capital Region or in areas with severe pollution. They are still required to install FGD systems by December 2027. The second category, Category B, located between 10 and 25 km from populated areas, will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Meanwhile, Category C plants—located more than 25 km from major habitations—have been exempted altogether from the FGD mandate. This includes the 78% of thermal plants mentioned before.

    Government’s Justification

    The MoEFCC said that they have noted no visible difference between the SO₂ emissions between those plants that have the FGD system and those that don’t. According to the ministry, studies show that SO₂ contributes only 1% to 5% to ambient PM2.5 levels, implying that nationwide installation may not be the most effective strategy to reduce air pollution.

    The Ministry also stated that the expenses to install these systems would not match their benefits, which are marginal. The installation could also lead to an increase in electricity tariffs by 50 to 70 paise per unit. The current cut of the systems could, in fact, reduce electricity costs by 25 to 30 paise per unit.

    Criticism and Public Health Concerns

    SO₂ is a colourless, extremely toxic gas and a leading cause of several respiratory illnesses and acid rain. As mentioned, India is one of the largest emitters of SO₂ and diluting regulations puts vulnerable communities at risk. Some research suggests that fully implementing FGD could save thousands of lives each year.

    Critics argue that rolling back these measures not only endangers public health but also undermines India’s global environmental standing. This policy shift, they warn, could complicate India’s long-term climate strategy—particularly its ambition to reach net-zero emissions by 2070. With coal still dominating the energy mix, continued reliance on outdated emission controls may slow the transition toward cleaner alternatives and jeopardise commitments under the Paris Climate Agreement.

    What Lies Ahead

    While the government claims that the revision is both climate-friendly and cost-effective, this debate highlights a significant challenge: finding the right balance between developmental needs and environmental responsibility. With coal still being a major player in India’s energy landscape, we’re left wondering what the long-term effects of this decision will be on public health and our climate goals.

  • Investing in Indulgence: All About ChysCapital’s Theobroma Stake Buy Out

    Investing in Indulgence: All About ChysCapital’s Theobroma Stake Buy Out

    Theobroma, a high-end bakery brand renowned for its signature brownies, pastries, and quickly expanding nationwide presence, has drawn a significant investment from ChrysCapital, which has purchased a 90% stake in the business. The deal is estimated at a valuation of ₹2,410 crore, as reported by the Economic Times. It marks a significant milestone in Theobroma’s evolution from a family-run enterprise to a professionally scaled food services business.

    The deal involves acquiring shares from both the company’s promoters and current investor ICICI Venture, which owns around 42% of the stake in the company. It is reported that the proprietors will retain 10% of the stake in the company.

    From Colaba Café to a 1000-Crore Brand 

    Theobroma was founded in 2004 by two sisters, Kainaz Messman Harchandrai and Tina Messman Wykes. It grew from a small kitchen café to a 225-store pan-India chain, serving pastries, puffs, cakes, croissants and sandwiches.

    In her 2020 memoir, “The Theobroma Story: Baking a Dream,” Kainaz Messman described how she had to reconsider her career after suffering a back injury while working as a pastry chef at the Oberoi Hotels. Inspired by their mother’s home-based baking business, she teamed up with her sister Tina and received training at Le Cordon Bleu.

    During Dussehra in 2004, the two opened their first café on Colaba Causeway with their father’s seed money of Rs 1.5 crore. At first, it was thought to be a minor improvement over their kitchen at home, but it would quickly grow into something much larger.

    A friend of theirs proposed the name “Theobroma,” which means “food of the gods,” and it immediately came to be known as the decadent treats at an affordable price and an elevated dessert experience.

    Theobroma’s delicious tarts, rich cakes, and gooey brownies were an overnight hit in India’s growing café and bakery scene in the early days. With its European-style pastries at affordable prices, the brand won the heart of a young aspirational consumer segment. Its emphasis on quality and consistency helped create a loyal and growing customer base, reports say.

    More About the Stake Buy-out 

    According to the ET (Economic Times) report in March, ChrysCapital initiated discussions to acquire Theobroma at a rate lower than the initial Rs 3,000 crore valuation the founding family and the shareholders held out for. The talks that were put on hold for some six weeks following poor financial performance were recently restarted. No takeover announcement has been issued yet.

    Other prospective buyers like Bain Capital, Carlyle, and Switz Group of the Khorakiwala family that runs the Monginis bakery chain also expressed initial interest in Theobroma. ChrysCapital’s investment in Theobroma is a part of the company’s plan to build a solid quick-service restaurant (QSR) portfolio. The fund is also committed to buying high-growth food chains such as The Belgian Waffle Co., and the recent deal reflects growing investor interest in scalable, consumer-facing companies in India.

    Theobroma is expected to post Rs 525-550 crore revenue and Rs 80-100 crore EBITDA in FY25. It had posted Rs 400 crore revenue and Rs 60 crore EBITDA in FY24.

    The company had earlier considered going public, but unstable market conditions stalled its plans for an IPO.

    What’s Next for Theobroma?

    With the support of ChrysCapital, Theobroma will consolidate its position in Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities and explore opportunities such as e-commerce, licensing of products, and packaged foods. With the increasing demand for premium yet affordable food brands in India, Theobroma is poised to dominate the space.

    The most amazing part of this story isn’t the moneymaking transaction – it’s sister’s love, business built on chocolate, hard work, and determination. It is now a case study on how Indian food startups can grow without losing their soul.

    The investment gives Theobroma the strategic capital and expertise it needs to propel its growth, expand new markets, and potentially strengthen its supply chain and backend operations. ChrysCapital, as an experienced investor in consumer-facing businesses, offers Theobroma Capital as well as operating experience, which is vital since Theobroma transitioned from a family business to a professionally scaled business.

    The Messman family is reportedly still engaged in key roles to keep the values and identity of the brand.

    Image Source: Theobroma Official Website

  • After Nearly a Century, HUL Gets Its First Female Chief

    After Nearly a Century, HUL Gets Its First Female Chief

    For the first time in its 92-year history, Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) will be led by a woman. Priya Nair has been appointed as the new CEO and Managing Director of HUL, and will be taking over from Rohit Jawa on August 1st, 2025.

    Priya Nair isn’t new to HUL. She has worked for the company for almost 30 years, starting in sales and marketing and steadily climbing the ladder, proving herself every step of the way. She is currently the President of the beauty and wellbeing sector at Unilever, where she led iconic campaigns for brands like Dove, Rin and Comfort. She is also known for creating stories that connect with people, especially women and families, and her in-depth understanding of the Indian market made her one of the most respected marketers in the industry.

    But this move is more than just a change in the job title. It highlights the slow pace of change in the Indian boardrooms. HUL, a household name with products in nearly every Indian home, had never had a female CEO for almost a century, and Nair’s appointment is a clear sign that leadership is finally becoming more inclusive.

    She brings to the table not just experience, but also empathy. Her leadership style is expected to focus on people, sustainability, and innovation. As consumer habits change, especially post-pandemic, HUL will need fresh ideas to stay relevant. Her track record shows she understands this shift. She led campaigns that didn’t just sell soap or shampoo; they told stories that made people feel seen and heard.

    Her promotion also sends a message to young women across the country – the top seat is within reach. Even in industries where men have always held power, things are changing. It’s a reminder that talent, vision, and consistency can break barriers,  even those built over nine decades.

    HUL is India’s biggest fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) company. It sells everything from tea and detergent to skincare and health products. With over 50 brands in its portfolio and a presence in every part of the country, leading HUL is no small task. But Nair is seen as someone ready for the challenge.

  • HYBE CEO Steps Down Amid BTS Comeback and India Expansion

    HYBE CEO Steps Down Amid BTS Comeback and India Expansion

    Scooter Braun Steps Down: HYBE’s Bold New Era Begins

    In a surprising move, Scooter Braun has stepped down as CEO of HYBE America. Braun, known for managing global stars like Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande, had joined HYBE in 2021 when the South Korean entertainment giant acquired his company Ithaca Holdings for around $1 billion. For years, he played a key role in helping HYBE expand into the American market, leading big-name signings and industry takeovers, including the $300 million acquisition of Quality Control Music. However, as of 1 July 2025, his leadership era has officially ended.

    The timing feels far from random. HYBE insists this transition was planned since the 2021 deal. Braun isn’t completely stepping down though; he will continue as a board member and strategic advisor to HYBE founder Bang Si-hyuk. Isaac Lee, previously heading HYBE’s Latin American operations, has stepped in as the new CEO of HYBE America.

    Braun’s exit has been met with mixed reactions. While his industry connections helped HYBE grow globally, he’s also been a controversial figure, especially after his public feud with Taylor Swift over the ownership of her early music. Many BTS fans, who had long been uneasy about Braun’s influence on HYBE, saw his exit as a “cleansing moment.” In fact, Braun stepping down just hours after BTS reunited online has sparked speculation that this was a calculated reset.

    BTS Is Back: The Comeback Fans Were Dying For

    On the same day, Braun stepped aside, and BTS came together for a surprise livestream on Weverse. All seven members appeared together on screen for the first time in nearly two years, sending ARMYs worldwide into meltdown. The band is officially back from their military service, and they’re already planning their comeback album and tour.

    During the livestream, BTS confirmed that they’ll start working on new music in July 2025 and aim to release a full album by spring 2026. This would be their first full-length group album since “Proof” in 2022. Even more exciting is a world tour planned for the same year. With their military duties now complete, all seven members- Jin, RM, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook- are finally coming back together.

    This comeback means more than just new songs- it marks the return of the most powerful K-pop band of all time. And BTS isn’t just a band; they’re a cultural force. They’ve spoken at the United Nations, topped global charts, and built an army of fans stretching across continents. Their return instantly shifts the entire music industry. It also gives HYBE a significant advantage as it prepares for its next phase of global expansion.

    HYBE Heads to India: A New Chapter Begins 

    HYBE is officially entering India. With its massive population, youthful demographic, and growing love for Korean entertainment, India is a dream market for any entertainment company. HYBE recognised this potential and announced plans to open a full-fledged Indian subsidiary in the second half of 2025.

    The new office is expected to launch around September or October and will likely be based in Mumbai. Preparations have already begun, with research teams surveying the local music market. The company sees India as a core market for developing new artists and bringing K-pop closer to South Asian fans.

    Instead of pushing Korean acts globally, they want to build locally relevant entertainment hubs in major regions like the U.S., Japan, Latin America, and India. It’s not just about bringing BTS and SEVENTEEN to new countries, but about creating Indian stars through the same system that made K-pop what it is today.

    What This Means for Fans 

    For Indian fans, this is a huge deal. HYB’s presence in India allows concerts, exclusive events, official auditions, and local artist development. There’s already a buzz around HYBE’s ‘Cine-Fest’, which will screen BTS and other K-pop concert films in Indian theatres from 10 July to 13 July 2025. This could be regarded as the company testing the waters before launching larger fan engagement events.

    And, of course, all eyes are on whether BTS will finally have concerts in India in 2026. The idea doesn’t seem far-fetched anymore. During his solo promotions, j-hope hinted that India might be added to future tour maps, especially once HYBE formally sets up its office in the country. For millions of Indian ARMYs, that’s a dream come true.

  • The Indian Imprint: Craft, Culture, and Controversy on the Runway

    The Indian Imprint: Craft, Culture, and Controversy on the Runway

    In the dazzling world of global luxury fashion, titans such as Louis Vuitton and Prada have turned to Indian culture for inspiration. India, with its unique and rich heritage and craftsmanship, has effortlessly made its mark on the fashion industry. Beyond mere commerce, India’s exquisite textiles, handcrafted jewellery, and intricate embroideries have long attracted designers, leading the country’s diverse fashion to reach international heights, often reimagined through a contemporary lens.

    For example, the recent rave on TikTok about the Indian ‘Jhola’ bags being sold at a whopping budget of Rs. 4100, an item commonly acquired at less than Rs. 100 in India has left minds boggled. The item features Hindi texts and is designated as a ‘chic’ item for enthusiasts of Indian culture. It seems almost unbelievable!

    Furthermore, the Prada-Milan Fashion Week, a global platform for couture novelty, found itself in a controversy between worldwide fashion and cultural heritage and appropriation. Although the conflict started as harmless, the uproar of the Prada shoes, from the indictments of design theft to the vehement demands for cultural attribution, completely caught the fashion house off guard. These handcrafted leather slippers, commonly called Kolhapuris, boast a 900-year history rooted in the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka (India), and were upgraded using high-class leather and metallic bases, proving how simple, authentic Indian crafts can be elevated to a global trend level. Although Prada stated, “We acknowledge the sandals are inspired by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear, with a centuries-old heritage,” the situation ignited a wave of widespread controversy.

    As photos from the runway started to circulate online, outrage in India escalated. Criticising Prada for describing the footwear blandly as “leather flat sandals “ without giving any proper recognition of its origins, and accusing Prada of cultural appropriation. Business tycoon Harsh Goenka reflected the public outcry by stating, “ Indian artisans lose, while global brands cash in on our culture .” With prices reaching $800 abroad, while in India they are sold for as little as Rs. 1000, making the global markup all the more jarring. In response to the growing backlash and controversy, Prada’s head of Corporate Social Responsibility, Lorenzo Bertelli, responded by acknowledging the sandals’ Indian inspiration and expressed willingness to open a dialogue with local artisans for a more meaningful and respectful exchange.

    Interestingly, some believe that this controversy can have an unexpected upside. It has also transpired that the same could yield magnificent results. It is an undeniable element that the sale of sandals in India has shown an immense hike lately. By the perception of the regional designers, such exposure could increase interest in the everlasting styles, particularly among younger clientele.

    “Until now, it hadn’t been considered part of the ‘cool’ or aspirational footwear space in India’s luxury market… I truly believe in the ripple effect of what Prada has done,” expressed Shirin Mann, the founder of Needle Dust, popularly known for its coeval view on classical Indian embroidery slip-ons. Supporting her claim, Google Trends has also shown a noticeable spike in searches for Kolhapuri sandals since the show, while local retailers have reported increased curiosity, especially among younger shoppers.

    Alternatively, Louis Vuitton’s menswear collection, under the direction of Pharrell Williams, offered an enthralling example of such a controversy. Williams’ spring-summer 2026 collection vibrantly showcased India’s uplevelling artistry. The collection features a collaboration with studio Mumbai, altering the fashion runway into a life-sized ‘Snakes & Ladders’. The show included signature Indian colours, accompanied by Bhangra songs. It also showcased an Autorickshaw handbag, a common mode of transport that is a pivotal element of India’s vibrant street life. Adding to the authenticity, the show featured one of the most iconic Indian composers, A.R. Rahman, who co-composed the Punjabi track “Yaara Punjabi.” The track’s cultural depth elevated the entire experience, turning the runway immersive and rooted in Indian identity.

    India’s influence on Western fashion is in no way a new trend. It has influenced the Western world for centuries. From Yves Saint Laurent’s iconic perfume “Opium” subtly echoing Mughal Motifs and rich silks to Dior’s theatrical collections highly resembling Indian grandeur, the list never ends. As the lines between humble Indian handicrafts and contemporary designs continue to blur, one fact becomes significantly clear: India’s eclectic and deeply rooted culture continues to cast an undeniable influence on the outside world, powerfully shaping the very trajectory of upcoming fashion trends.

  • Would Sitaare Zameen Par Shine on OTT? Reimagining a Theatrical Star in the Age of Streaming

    Would Sitaare Zameen Par Shine on OTT? Reimagining a Theatrical Star in the Age of Streaming

    We can all agree that the initial announcement of the Aamir Khan-led sequel to Taare Zameen Par- Sitaare Zameen Par- was met with a divided stance. While it still had the power to spark nostalgia, a doubt lingered: “What if it is not what it once had been?” Upon release, it was established that Sitaare Zameen Par still evoked the raw sense of reality, paralleling its prequel, which redefined how Indian audiences viewed childhood, learning disabilities, and empathy. Sitaare Zameen Par is not just a successor of its prequel, Taare Zameen Par, because it has reimagined the landscape of disabilities again from a whole new perspective altogether. This movie can be lightly described as a “feel-good, sports-centric” story about children with special needs, but it does promise a humorous tone while still carrying the emotional weight Khan’s brand of storytelling is known for.

    The arrival of Sitaare Zameen Par occurs in a new narrative space, a more nuanced media landscape where the lines between the TV in our living rooms and the big screen have been blurred. Digital spaces have competed with the cinematic universes to create a new level. And in such a present, we ask, Would Sitaare Zameen Par thrive as an OTT release- or does it demand the pause, the magnificence of storytelling, and the spectacle of a big screen?

    The Legacy Effect: Can Emotion Scale Digitally?

    Despite not being a direct sequel, Sitaare Zameen Par still packs the same kick. Expectations reach new heights as sensitivity and transformation, and a protagonist who moves the audience, rise as the real heroes of this cinematic journey.

    Although this emotional legacy is powerful, it could be a double-edged sword in the OTT space.

    An OTT platform is no better than these fast fashion trends that have us in a chokehold every week. Buzzing engagement derived from algorithmic strategies is the powers that push content that is simply summarized in thumbnails, keywords and 30-seconds of someone on a reel saying: “This movie in the theatres-” Here is where we know at the back of our minds that a film like Sitaare Zameen Par, which is likely to build slowly, focusing on character arcs and emotional payoffs, may not fit easily into the scroll-happy ecosystem.

    In the theatres, emotional storytelling still holds space. Families show up. Word-of-mouth builds over weekends. Conversations linger. If well-executed, a film like Sitaare Zameen Par can become an event in theatres. On OTT, however, it risks becoming one among hundreds of feel-good titles competing for the same attention span.

    Aamir Khan’s Star Power: Still Box Office Gold?

    Amir Khan’s magnanimous comeback to the big screen after his project Laal Singh Chaddha’s commercial failure is enough to draw audiences into theatres. This movie only gives in to the anticipation more. Khan’s track record includes era-defining blockbusters like PK, Dangal, and 3 Idiots– all films that blended social relevance with entertainment.

    But can Aamir’s brand of cinema still command the box office in a post-pandemic world?

    Streaming has changed consumption habits. Viewers now wait for digital releases instead of heading to theatres for anything outside the action or franchise space. Even major stars have opted for OTT debuts or simultaneous releases.

    However, Aamir’s storytelling has always relied on shared emotion, and that translates best in theatres. Sitaare Zameen Par delivers a mix of inspiration and sentiment, and a theatrical release is enough to restore the lost glamour of family cinema.

    Was Khan’s reluctance to release Sitare Zameen Par on OTT the driving force of its success?

    That said, the advantages of an OTT release aren’t negligible, especially for a niche topic.

    Amir Khan’s consistent decision to delay the OTT release of Sitare Zameen Par cannot be just regarded as a choice of distribution; it was a calculated risk that flourished into success. Digital premieres hold immense power when it comes to catching the attention of an algorithmic audience, and that is 90% of the movie fanatics. Khan insisted over and over again that a theatrical release would be appropriate for this movie, and in the process made us realise that we have not completely become a victim of the labyrinth that is the internet. This created scarcity, causing an uproar of amplified anticipation, drawing audiences back to theatres for the collective experience they had long missed. But it wasn’t that Sitare Zameen Par’s absence was the only driving force behind its box office success; this movie was an overloaded pack of heartfelt storytelling and strong performances, once again making us believe in Khan’s creative vision. His strategic stand against immediate digital access underscored the film’s emotional gravity, positioning it not just as entertainment, but as an event—something to be felt, not just streamed.

    A Theatrical Gamble Worth Taking?

    Finally, Sitaare Zameen Par is a movie that deserves the space it has created after its theatrical drop. It deserves the attention and cult following of its prequel. Centred around children who often don’t have a voice, told by an actor-director who consistently chooses meaningful storytelling over formulaic payoff, is a revolution mobilising with every new film.

    That’s something OTT still struggles to replicate: the multi-generational viewing experience that feels both communal and transformative.

    Sitaare Zameen Par is a reminder that soft cinema still matters in a market obsessed with spectacle. Standing much apart from the emotional rollercoaster of Taare Zameen Par, this sequel is a cheerful digression. A movie that carries a message as strong as this duology undoubtedly has the potential to become more of a force to be reckoned with on big screens than on smaller tablet ones.

    The theatres may be fewer. Audience tastes may be shifting. But some stories still deserve to be watched with your phone off, your heart open, and your seat grounded in a room full of strangers, feeling the same thing simultaneously.

    And if anyone can make that work in 2025, it’s Aamir Khan.

  • Adani and Ambani join hands to “Redefine Auto-Fuel experience”

    Adani and Ambani join hands to “Redefine Auto-Fuel experience”

    In a surprise move, business rivals Gautam Adani and Mukesh Ambani have strategically tied up to collaborate in the energy sector. Mukesh Ambani-owned Reliance Industries venture Jio-bp and Adani Total Gas Ltd announced a mutual agreement on 25th June 2025.

    This deal is important as major private players like Torrent Power earlier and now Adani and Ambani are paving the way to enter and reshape India’s government-dominated fuel market. Jio-bp, the fuel venture of Reliance Industries, is already in partnership with the UK’s bp. ATGL, Adani Total Gas Ltd, is a joint gas venture between the Adani Group and Total Energies of France.

    In this agreement, select Jio-bp-owned fuel stations will install Adani Total Gas’ CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) stations in their outlets; similarly, select Adani Total Gas stations will install Jio-bp’s petrol and diesel dispensers in their outlets. According to a joint statement reported by PTI, the partnership will span both existing and upcoming outlets of both companies, and it aims to “redefine the auto-fuel retail experience for Indian customers”. There are a total of 1,972 petrol pumps operated by Jio-bp in India, whereas Adani Total Gas Limited has 650 CNG outlets in India. This agreement is also said to cover collaboration on compressed biogas, electric vehicle charging points and other low-carbon fuel solutions, the companies said.

    Last year in March, the two business conglomerates had signed a pact for their first-ever collaborative power project in Madhya Pradesh. Reliance Industries had bought a 26% stake in Adani’s power project in Madhya Pradesh.

    Suresh P. Manglani, Executive Director and CEO of Adani Total Gas Ltd, said in an official statement, “It is our shared vision to provide a complete range of high-quality fuels at our outlets. This partnership will enable us to leverage each other’s infrastructure, thus enhancing customer experience and offerings.” Chairman of Jio-bp, Sarthak Behuria, said, “We are united by a shared vision to offer our customers a superior selection of high-quality fuels. Jio-bp has always been committed to delivering an exceptional customer experience, and this partnership allows us to leverage each other’s strengths to further enhance the value we provide to India.”

    Gautam Adani and Mukesh Ambani, both hailing from the state of Gujarat, have always been viewed as rivals, ranging from being competitors for Asia’s richest person to competing in the expansion of business in different sectors. Observers have seen this move as strategic. It will be interesting to see how this deal works out in the future.

  • Ceasefire in Kashmir: An Operation in Suspension

    Ceasefire in Kashmir: An Operation in Suspension

    On May 20, 2025, India and Pakistan announced a renewed commitment to the 2021 ceasefire agreement along the Line of Control — their second such declaration in four years. Framed as a diplomatic gesture aimed at “stabilising the region,” the move arrived in the shadow of bloodshed. On the morning of 22 April 2025, a convoy of buses winding through the hills of Pahalgam was ambushed by armed militants. The vehicles were carrying Hindu pilgrims, many travelling from Gujarat and Maharashtra, toward the sacred Amarnath site. The attackers opened fire with military precision. By the time it ended, 27 people were dead, dozens wounded, and Kashmir’s already uneasy calm had cracked again.

    Among the survivors was nine-year-old Naksh from Surat, found clutching his brother’s bloodied shirt. Witnesses said the attackers separated passengers by religion before shooting. The brutality of the assault — its timing, its political undertones — raises deeper questions about the promises of peace in Kashmir and the realities on the ground, especially under the framework of what both India and Pakistan still describe as an active ceasefire.

    But what, exactly, is being held at bay?

    A History of Ceasefire, Interrupted

    Kashmir, a region claimed by both India and Pakistan since the Partition in 1947, has endured multiple wars, two full-scale insurgencies, and decades of militarisation. In 1949, the United Nations facilitated the first formal ceasefire between the two countries, freezing control along what came to be known as the Line of Control (LoC). That agreement was never meant to be permanent, and it wasn’t.

    After the 1999 Kargil War, ceasefire violations peaked in 2002, with over 5,000 reported incidents. In 2003, a renewed agreement between New Delhi and Islamabad was announced, and for a few years, it seemed to hold. The number of violations plummeted to fewer than 100 by 2005. Cross-border travel was reintroduced. Civil society groups began cautious dialogues. Kashmiris, many for the first time in years, began to believe in a kind of fragile normalcy.

    That changed over the next decade. Tensions escalated again following the 2016 killing of militant commander Burhan Wani and even more sharply after the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status under Article 370 in August 2019. The region saw lockdowns, communication blackouts, and mass detentions. Between 2019 and 2020 alone, India reported over 5,000 ceasefire violations along the LoC.

    Yet in February 2021, the two countries surprised many by issuing a joint statement: they would “observe all agreements on ceasefire along the LoC and all other sectors.” Diplomats hailed the announcement as a significant thaw. It was informal, not part of any treaty, but carried the weight of official intent. It was widely referred to in Indian media as “Operation Ceasefire.”

    Operation Ceasefire: A Pause Without a Framework

    Despite the name, Operation Ceasefire was not an operation in the military sense — it was a diplomatic reaffirmation. There were no new protocols, third-party monitors, or cross-border verification mechanisms. What existed instead was mutual fatigue and perhaps mutual interest: both countries faced economic pressures and, in Pakistan’s case, growing internal instability.

    For a time, violations along the LoC sharply declined. According to official data, ceasefire violations dropped by over 90 per cent in 2021 and 2022. For the border towns of Uri, Poonch, and Tangdhar, the lull meant children returned to school, weddings were held in daylight, and life resembled something closer to ordinary.

    But for many in Kashmir, especially those far from Delhi’s policy circles or Islamabad’s diplomatic corridors, the word “ceasefire” never meant protection. It meant pause – silence is not guaranteed but expected to break.

    After the Pahalgam attack, that silence shattered. Eighteen days following the assault, 83 new violations were recorded along the LoC. Shelling resumed. Drone activity spiked. Inhabitants of border villages began sleeping in basements again.

    “We never stopped packing our emergency bags,” said Rina Begum, a mother of three in Uri. “You can’t afford to believe in peace here. You just live in between the bombs.”

    The Civilian Cost of Fragile Promises

    In the highlands of north Kashmir, the idea of peace is rarely tied to ceasefires. The lines on the map may freeze and unfreeze with official declarations, but the lived reality is one of constant vigilance. Homes have backup escape plans. Schools run modified curriculums for when children cannot attend. Shops stay stocked with dry rations in case roads are sealed without warning.

    Nazakat Ahmad Ali Shah, a trekking guide who helped rescue several survivors during the April attack, described it plainly:

    “It’s not a ceasefire if we’re still burying people. It’s a ceasefire if we feel safe. And we don’t.”

    The international community often treats these surges of violence as isolated ruptures — regrettable but exceptional. But for Kashmiris, especially those along the LoC, these moments are neither new nor surprising. They are cyclical. A massacre, a speech, a reaffirmation. Then, another pause and another promise that cannot shield them from the next round.

    And in the middle of it all is Naksh — a boy who speaks less now, eats less, and flinches at thunder. When asked what peace means to him, he said:

    “Just quiet. But not the scary kind. The kind where no one is hiding.”

    A Ceasefire or a Countdown?

    Ceasefires, as currently structured, are not rooted in reconciliation or accountability. There is no truth-telling, no demilitarisation, no reparative justice. What exists instead is an agreement to hold fire temporarily — sometimes upheld, often broken — without addressing the deeper political fractures underneath.

    In Kashmir, the difference between silence and gunfire is rarely peace. It’s only space.

    And as long as ceasefires remain tactical rather than transformative, Kashmir will continue to experience what it knows too well: the noise of violence, followed by the quieter but no less terrifying wait for it to return.

    If this is what we call a ceasefire, what would actual peace look like?

  • Justice B.R. Gavai Appointed as the 52nd Chief Justice of India

    Justice B.R. Gavai Appointed as the 52nd Chief Justice of India

    Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai was sworn in as the 52nd Chief Justice of India (CJI) on 14 May 2025, succeeding Justice Sanjiv Khanna. President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath of office at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Justice Gavai will serve as CJI until his retirement on 23 November 2025, with a tenure of a little over six months.

    His appointment was confirmed by the Ministry of Law and Justice on 29 April 2025, following a recommendation by Justice Sanjiv Khanna on 16 April. Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and other Union ministers were present at his oath-taking ceremony.

    Legal Career and Judicial Tenure

    Born on 24 November 1960 in Amravati, Maharashtra, Justice Gavai is the first Buddhist to be appointed as CJI and only the second judge from the Scheduled Caste community to hold the position, after former CJI K.G. Balakrishnan.

    Following in his father’s footsteps, the late R.S. Gavai, a well-known Ambedkarite leader and former Governor of Bihar, Sikkim, and Kerala, Justice Gavai enrolled as an advocate in 1985 and began his legal career under Barrister Raja S. Bhonsale, a former Advocate General and High Court judge.

    Justice Gavai practised independently at the Bombay High Court from 1987 to 1990. He specialised primarily in constitutional and administrative law and served as Standing Counsel for various municipal bodies and public institutions. He was later appointed Government Pleader and Public Prosecutor in 2000.

    Justice Gavai was elevated to the post of an Additional Judge of the Bombay High Court on 14 November 2003 and became a Permanent Judge on 12 November 2005. He served at the Mumbai, Nagpur, Aurangabad and Panaji Benches for over 16 years before being appointed to the Supreme Court on 24 May 2019.

    His elevation to the apex court was recommended by the Collegium led by then Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, which cited due representation, along with seniority and merit as the key reasons.

    Key Judgments and Contributions

    As a Supreme Court judge, Justice Gavai has been part of several key Constitution Benches and landmark judgements.

    He authored the majority opinion in the 2023 verdict that upheld the 2016 demonetisation scheme and was on the Bench that upheld the abrogation of Article 370. He also struck down the electoral bonds scheme and supported sub-classification within Scheduled Castes in both majority and concurring opinions.

    Justice Gavai has been part of several high-profile bail rulings as well, including granting bail to former Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia and activist Teesta Setalvad. He also led the Bench that ordered the release of A.G. Perarivalan in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case.

    In 2024, Justice Gavai wrote a concurring opinion in State of Punjab v Davinder Singh, advocating for the exclusion of the ‘creamy layer’ within Scheduled Castes. In another important 2024 ruling, he held that demolitions without due process violated the constitutional right to shelter, laying down procedural safeguards against arbitrary bulldozer actions. He was also on the Bench that convicted Advocate Prashant Bhushan for contempt and later stayed Rahul Gandhi’s criminal defamation conviction.

    Challenges Ahead for CJI Gavai

    Despite his short six-month tenure as Chief Justice, Justice Gavai is set to face several important challenges, with a backlog of over 82,000 cases pending before the Supreme Court as of January 2025, according to the Supreme Court Observer.

    More immediately, two High Court judges, Allahabad HC’s Justice Shekhar Yadav and former Delhi HC judge Yashwant Verma, are facing impeachment proceedings. At the same time, three apex court judges, Justices B.V. Nagarathna, Abhay Oka, and Sanjay Karol, are set to retire in the coming months. With two existing vacancies already, Justice Gavai’s Collegium will need to recommend at least five new appointments to maintain the court’s strength.

    He will also have to decide on several important issues, including pending cases related to the Places of Worship Act, the criminalisation of marital rape, and the validity of certain Waqf Act provisions. As master of the roster, how he allocates these matters and whether he ensures timely hearings will be closely watched.

    Justice Gavai, however, seems to be hitting the ground running. Shortly after taking charge, he addressed media personnel and shared a brief outline of his priorities for the months ahead.

  • Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s Tenure: The Voice That Spoke for Many Citizens of This Country

    Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s Tenure: The Voice That Spoke for Many Citizens of This Country

    After a career dedicated to serving justice and upholding the Constitution, Justice Khanna now transitions to a well-deserved retirement. He retires on 13 May, marking the end of a six-month tenure defined by clarity and conviction.

    Justice Sanjiv Khanna, the 51st Chief Justice of India, is a well-established and renowned judge of the Honourable Supreme Court, marking his presence and opinions in a number of notable judgments on different aspects, such as VVPAT verification, Electronic Bond Scheme, and even upholding the abrogation of Article 370.

    Justice Sanjiv Khanna had earlier served as the Honourable Supreme Court Judge for the period commencing from 11 November 2024 to 13 May 2025, preceded by Justice D.Y. Chandrachud. He graduated from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi and thereafter pursued his Bachelor of Laws from the Faculty of Law, Delhi University. Following this, he was enrolled as an Advocate in the Bar Council of Delhi in 1983, serving as a Standing Counsel (Civil) for the National Capital Territory of Delhi and the Income Tax Department.

    The legacy of the Khanna family can be seen in the career of Justice Sanjiv Khanna, whose father, Dev Raj Khanna, served as a Justice at the Delhi High Court, and his uncle, Justice Hans Raj Khanna, was a Supreme Court Judge renowned for his landmark judgment in the ADM Jabalpur v. Shivkant Shukla case on right to life and personal liberty.

    During the term of six months serving as the Chief Justice of India, he made a notable presence in various landmark judgements, which not only brought a change in the country but at the same time kept the basic structure of the constitution intact, keeping the sentiments of the citizens of the country intact.

    One of the key rulings, which was widely discussed during the last phase of Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s tenure, was the petitions filed against the Waqf Amendment Act, 2025, which was led by a special three-judge bench where he played an important role in the Waqf Amendment Act controversy. During the proceedings, the Centre assured the court that no existing Waqf properties will be denotified, and no new and fresh appointments will be made to the Waqf Board or Central Waqf Council until further hearings. The case is still pending on substantive issues, which are to be dealt with by his successor, Justice B.R. Gavai.

    As a Supreme Court Judge and serving as Chief Justice of India, Justice Sanjiv Khanna was an integral part of the landmark judgements in the history of India in the case of challenging the constitutionality of Electoral Bond Scheme as well as the abrogation of Article 370 – which revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and reorganised it into Union Territory of India. He also marked his influential presence by dismissing the petition filed with regard to the 1976 Amendment in the Preamble of the Constitution of India, where the terms’ secular’ and ‘socialist’ republic were added to describe India.

    Justice Sanjiv Khanna, from the date of holding a strong position at his office and for the country as well, has made some smart administrative moves in keeping the hearings at the Supreme Court more effective. His smart moves included procedural equality by ending oral mentions of early listing of cases at the Supreme Court, and focused on well-drafted petitions

    To sum up, Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s tenure as the 51st Chief Justice of India in a period of six months had his involvement in numerous cases, which not only included short cases but sensitive religious matters, including secularism and transparency in the judicial and quasi-judicial system.