The alarming dropout of 25,000 SC, ST and OBC students from IITs and central universities shows Indian institutions are still not inclusive. Accessibility isn’t just about how many disadvantaged students are admitted, but how many stay, graduate and flourish. This should be tackled with the same gusto as school dropouts.
Muharram procession’s passage shows secessionist grip on streets is broken. Ease other controls now
After 34 years, marred by clashes and curfews, one of four Shia Muharram processions has peacefully passed along its traditional route through Srinagar. Together with recent gatherings at the Jama Masjid, this shows the secessionist grip on the streets has broken. Remaining restrictions on congregational worship must now be eased.
Niti poverty index shows India must look beyond social metrics—Gujarat, Bengal different
Niti Aayog’s multidimensional poverty index showing West Bengal and Gujarat with same poverty levels highlights the policy challenges India’s economic diversity poses. Gujarat’s high per capita income only goes so far when poverty is measured multidimensionally. West Bengal shows focussing solely on social metrics doesn’t work for poverty alleviation either.