POLITICS

Identity Politics

Identity has been at the heart of Indian politics since its inception. This panel aims to discuss how identity politics is evolving in India and what this means for politics at large. 

There are two broad areas which need urgent attention. Firstly, understanding the changing rules of the game and whether caste politics is being replaced by Hindutva in the context to the decisive victory of BJP in 2019.  Has Hindutva made caste politics redundant or is it simply caste politics in a different mask? Also, if Hindutva has replaced caste politics, then the implications need to be addressed. Will looking at political decisions such as Kashmir and NRC through the lens of Hindutva make these complex issues easier to analyse? Has the Hindutva identity convoluted political decisions, making them impractical and unworkable?

These are some of the issues that this panel wishes to bring to the forefront!

Climate Leader?

India is undergoing rapid development and urbanisation but also faces the threats of climate change. The loss of forests and wetlands, pollution, unsustainable business practices threaten the homes and livelihoods of many. With COP26 just around the corner, wherein countries will review NDCs made in Paris and reduction in emissions, it is important to examine where India is heading in terms of climate leadership. This panel aims to analyse whether India can take on a leadership position in the international climate regime. Are national policies are sufficient to combat climate change and bring India to the forefront?  If it is to become a leader, what are the challenges that it will face-issues of legitimacy, power, economy? These issues are of pressing importance to India’s future and need to be discussed comprehensively!