Vipaasana

     Credits : Aishwarya      Examination is a test conducted to evaluate the expertise of a candidate concerned with a subject. The examination system was introduced by the 'King of Sui dynasty' of China to select "able" candidates for the post of government services. Is the practice of proving our "expertise" through examination relevant in today's world?       In ancient India, the learning process took place throughout one's life. Gurus were considered as gods and revered more than parents. Civilisations were built, the country prospered and ancient Indians excelled in administration, science, mathematics, astronomy, art, medicine etc. Few drawbacks of the ancient system of education as pointed out by the British were that: women were not included in the Gurukuls or Vidyapeet and Varna or Caste system was created which led to evil social discrimination.      The British introduced the system of examination in India to pick out the candidates who

       As we tread along a new path towards medical healthcare, there is a need to re-establish diplomatic ties towards the nations around the world which portrays our empathy and leadership qualities. One such step taken by the government is Vaccine diplomacy.      Two vaccines related to COVID have been approved in India after confirming their safety and efficacy. India has formulated a rational vaccine distribution programme targeting and prioritising the frontline workers, the older population, vulnerable population with lifestyle disease and then to the general population. However, it would have been much better to release the vaccine in phases so that people are absolutely sure about the efficacy of the vaccine. With vaccination kicking in, everything is expected to go back to pre-COVID levels including the economy. But the V shape economic recovery is theoretical and it is difficult to expect such a recovery in a practical scenario.      India has approved the supply of vaccine

       India being a strategically important nation in the Indo-Pacific region must balance its strategic ties in such a manner that it does not lose its strategic autonomy. Strategic autonomy is the heart of todays geopolitics.      India has been more inclined towards the US in the recent years. This has created tensions among its neighbours. India is now seen as a staunch ally of the US which has led to some degradation of ties with its neighbouring countries. Being seen as an ally of any one country is not in the best interest of any country.      The closeness of India with the US has pushed away Russia towards China. China views India with hostility and this is evident from the border skirmishes happening. Neighbours such as Nepal which were hitherto close to India have found some ground of friendship with China when it solved some internal dispute in Nepal. Countries such as Iran have blamed India of being pressurised by the US.      The policies of the US has been hostile towar