Frontline on Air

Shubhangi Derhgawen and Deepanshu Mohan delve into the escalating conflict over Chhattisgarh’s Hasdeo Arand forest, a crucial ecological zone threatened by coal mining projects linked to corporate interests, including Adani Enterprises Ltd. The audio story explores how the local tribal communities resist deforestation and displacement, framing their struggle within broader concerns of environmental degradation and corporate-government nexus. The Hasdeo movement stands as a critical battleground for indigenous rights, conservation, and policy accountability in India’s resource politics.

M.G. Radhakrishnan examines the evolving debate over dress codes in Kerala’s temples, exploring their intersections with tradition, politics, and social reform. The audio story unpacks how the Sangh Parivar and proponents of Sanatana Dharma frame the issue, while the Left Democratic Front and progressive voices challenge conservative mandates. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s cultural rhetoric influencing discourse, the controversy highlights broader tensions between religious customs and Kerala’s long-standing secular and reformist ethos.

Amey Tirodkar delves into the Goa cash-for-jobs scam, exposing allegations of corruption in government recruitment under the BJP-led administration. The audio story unpacks the controversy surrounding whistleblower Farell Furtado, the political fallout, and the responses from opposition parties like the AAP. With unemployment concerns running high in the state, the scandal has intensified scrutiny on Chief Minister Pramod Sawant’s government and its hiring practices.

T.K. Rajalakshmi explores the implications of the UGC’s new regulations on the appointment of vice-chancellors in central universities, highlighting concerns over academic autonomy and political influence. The audio story examines how these changes align with the BJP government’s broader educational policies under the National Education Policy (NEP) and their impact on institutional governance. It also sheds light on the growing apprehensions within the academic community regarding centralization and the erosion of independent decision-making in higher education.

Ashutosh Sharma examines the shifting political landscape of Punjab, focusing on the Shiromani Akali Dal’s challenges and the rise of radical elements like Waris Punjab De. The audio story delves into the legacy of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, the resurgence of Khalistani rhetoric, and the role of figures such as Amritpal Singh in shaping contemporary Sikh politics. It also explores how these developments influence Punjab’s socio-political fabric and the responses from the state and central governments.

Pritam Singh reflects on the economic philosophy of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, tracing his evolution from a Fabian socialist to the architect of India’s market liberalization. The audio story examines Singh’s balancing act between welfarism and market-driven reforms, highlighting his role in shaping India's economic trajectory while maintaining a commitment to social justice. Through a nuanced analysis, it explores his heterodox approach to policymaking and the lasting impact of his leadership on India's economic landscape.

Ashutosh Sharma delves into the ongoing Naxal conflict in Chhattisgarh, examining the intersection of security operations, tribal rights, and resource extraction. The piece explores how the government's counterinsurgency measures, spearheaded by Home Minister Amit Shah, intersect with corporate interests, particularly in coal mining. Sharma highlights the perspectives of tribal communities caught between Maoist insurgents and state forces, questioning the long-term impact of militarization in the region.

Radhika Desai examines America's shifting role in the global economy, focusing on the challenges posed by de-dollarization efforts, the rise of BRICS countries, and the U.S. response, including tariff threats. She discusses how figures like Elon Musk represent a changing economic landscape and the implications of these shifts for global trade and finance. With her expertise as a professor at the University of Manitoba and a visiting professor at the London School of Economics, Desai provides a critical perspective on the economic power struggles shaping the world today.

Jayant Prasad analyzes the impact of Donald Trump's presidency on U.S.-India relations, examining policies on trade, H-1B visas, and geopolitical dynamics involving China. He explores how Trump's approach differed from previous administrations, particularly in contrast to Barack Obama's engagement with India. The discussion also touches on the broader implications for diplomacy, defense cooperation, and India's strategic positioning in a shifting global order. Prasad, a retired diplomat and former Director General of the Institute of Defence Studies and Analyses, brings deep expertise in international relations to this analysis.

Indira Jaising reflects on the 75-year journey of the Indian Constitution, examining its role in securing fundamental rights and addressing the challenges faced in upholding these rights. She highlights key developments, the evolving interpretation of the Constitution, and the obstacles that continue to hinder its full realization, especially in the context of social justice and equality. Jaising, a senior advocate of the Supreme Court of India, brings a legal perspective to the discourse on constitutional law and its impact on contemporary Indian society.

Shuddhabrata Sengupta examines the interplay between state control and grassroots efforts in shaping Indian art and culture. The narrative delves into the tension between institutional frameworks and independent cultural expressions, highlighting how grassroots movements are reclaiming artistic spaces to foster creativity and inclusivity. Sengupta, an artist and curator with the Raqs Media Collective, brings a critical perspective to this evolving dynamic, emphasizing the resilience of cultural communities in the face of systemic challenges.

Lawrence Liang explores the remarkable transformation of Indian cinema over four decades, from 1984 to 2024, as shaped by technological advances and cultural shifts. The narrative highlights how digital innovations, streaming platforms, and globalization have redefined storytelling, production, and audience engagement in Indian films. Liang, a Delhi-based professor working at the intersection of law, culture, and technology, provides a nuanced analysis of cinema's evolution, linking it to broader societal and technological trends.

This audio story by Pankaj Sekhsaria draws a poignant connection between the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy and India's ongoing environmental challenges, such as the threats to Great Nicobar and the endangered Indian Bustard. It reflects on how ecological degradation has become emblematic of broader systemic failures in governance and accountability. Pankaj Sekhsaria, editor and curator of The Great Nicobar Betrayal published by Frontline in 2024, delves into these critical issues, urging collective action to prioritize environmental conservation.

This audio story by Kalpana Sharma critically examines the state of press freedom in India, focusing on the challenges faced by independent media in an era of government influence and corporate control. It highlights the complicity of major media outlets, the suppression of dissent, and the targeting of journalists, including the implications of high-profile cases like the Adani controversy. Kalpana Sharma, an independent journalist and author, sheds light on the pressing need to safeguard journalistic independence and integrity in the face of mounting pressures.

This audio story, written by Vandana Prasad, highlights the crisis in India's healthcare system, with a focus on how increasing privatization threatens universal access to essential health services. The narrative delves into the systemic neglect of public health infrastructure, rising out-of-pocket expenditures, and the growing disparities in access to care. Vandana Prasad, a public health professional with over three decades of experience in community and policy-level interventions, emphasizes the urgent need for equitable, accessible, and government-supported healthcare to address the nation's public health challenges effectively.

This audio story, authored by Krishna Kumar, critically examines the trajectory of higher education in India, reflecting on the policy shifts from the Rajiv Gandhi era to the current BJP-led NDA regime. It explores the impact of demonetization, the rise of market-driven educational reforms, and the challenges faced by liberal arts education in a rapidly changing socio-political landscape. Krishna Kumar, a former Director of NCERT and author of Thank You, Gandhi, brings a seasoned perspective to the discussion, urging a reevaluation of educational priorities to ensure inclusivity and intellectual growth.

This audio story, authored by Sudha Bharadwaj, delves into the steady deterioration of labor rights in India under the influence of neoliberal economic policies. It examines how the New Economic Policy has exacerbated workers' hardships, undermined trade unions, and deepened economic inequalities. Bharadwaj, a noted trade unionist and human rights activist, offers a compelling critique of the systemic challenges faced by India’s labor force, highlighting the urgent need for policies centered on social justice and workers' welfare.

This audio story, authored by renowned journalist and author P. Sainath, explores the three-decade-long crisis in Indian agriculture from 1984 to 2024. It examines the systemic decline fueled by neoliberal policies, growing farmer distress, and the widening rural-urban divide. Sainath, a champion of rural reporting and a recipient of numerous accolades for his work on agrarian issues, provides a deeply researched and compassionate analysis of the challenges facing India’s farmers and the broader implications for the nation’s socio-economic fabric.

This audio story, authored by Mukul Kesavan, critically examines the trajectory of Indian democracy under the leadership of the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It delves into the interplay of secularism, majoritarianism, and the RSS’s ideological influence, tracing the socio-political shifts from the era of Indira Gandhi to the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and beyond. Kesavan, a historian and writer known for his incisive commentary, offers a nuanced analysis of the challenges facing democracy in South Asia today.

This audio story explores Tulsi Gabbard's intriguing journey in American politics, from being a Democratic Congresswoman from Hawaii to her recent alignment with Republican values. It examines her political evolution, ideological shifts, and the broader implications for bipartisan dynamics in the United States. Gabbard's rise and influence offer a lens into the changing landscape of American political discourse.

This audio story delves into Assam's contentious land issues, highlighting the struggles of Adivasis and tribal communities against historical zamindari practices and recent displacement threats. It examines the Assam government's policies, alleged links to corporate interests like the Adani Group, and the broader implications for land rights under Narendra Modi's administration. The narrative underscores the enduring tensions between development and social justice.

This audio story examines the recent indictment of the Adani Group in the U.S., focusing on allegations of bribery and corruption linked to green energy projects. It highlights SEBI’s ongoing investigation, the group’s political connections with Prime Minister Modi, and the international implications, including ties to former U.S. President Trump. The story explores the broader concerns of corporate accountability and regulatory oversight in India.

This audio story delves into the Maharashtra Assembly Election 2024, analyzing the BJP-led Mahayuti's historic victory. It explores the coalition's campaign strategies, voter dynamics, and the political landscape that contributed to this decisive win. The story provides a comprehensive examination of the factors driving this electoral success and its implications for Maharashtra's future governance.

This audio story examines the evolving role of Indian women voters in elections, challenging the myth of a cohesive "gender vote bank." It analyzes voting patterns, the impact of welfare schemes targeted at women, and how political narratives address—or fail to address—gender issues. The story offers a nuanced perspective on the intersection of gender, politics, and policy in shaping electoral outcomes.

This audio story delves into the cultural practices surrounding books and reading, exploring the fine line between collecting and hoarding. It discusses how Japanese culture values physical libraries and book ownership, contrasting it with the rise of digital reading on platforms like Kindle. The story highlights the shift in how people interact with literature, from the tactile joy of flipping through pages to the convenience of e-books, reflecting broader changes in reading habits and cultural values.

This audio story examines the works of Irish author Sally Rooney, focusing on her novels Normal People and Conversations with Friends, which have resonated deeply with Gen Z and millennial readers. It explores her unique approach to storytelling, tackling themes like relationships, social media, and capitalism. The piece highlights how Rooney's characters grapple with modern issues of identity, love, and social expectation, positioning her as a key voice in contemporary literature.

This audio story delves into the ongoing debate over private sector job reservations in India, exploring the political, economic, and social implications of such a move in 2024. It looks at the government's stance, the pressure from various communities, and the broader impact on employment and growth. The discussion includes perspectives from different political parties and economists, unpacking the complexities of this sensitive issue in India’s job market.

This audio story offers a detailed account of the ongoing violence in Manipur under Chief Minister Biren Singh's administration, highlighting the ethnic tensions involving the Kuki-Zo community. It examines the role of central forces like the Assam Rifles and CRPF, along with political responses from the BJP, Congress, and the central government led by Amit Shah and Narendra Modi. Greeshma Kuthar brings a nuanced perspective to the crisis, connecting local dynamics with national political strategies.

This audio story delves into the cultural and legal history of cannabis in India, examining its journey from traditional use to modern prohibition. It explores how cannabis has influenced Indian pop culture, including cinema and music, while analyzing the socio-political impact of its criminalization. Through this narrative, the story sheds light on the complex interplay between law, culture, and societal attitudes toward cannabis.

This audio story explores China's growing influence in Africa through trade, investment, and military presence, as framed by the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). It highlights the strategic implications of this deepening partnership for global geopolitics, including India's evolving response and competition in the region. The analysis underscores how Africa's role in global diplomacy is being reshaped by these powerful engagements.

This audio story revisits the legacy of the Naxal movement in Bihar's Ekwari village, focusing on its role in shaping Bhojpur's struggle for Dalit rights and social justice. It examines the evolution of caste-based conflicts into broader political movements, particularly the CPI(ML) Liberation's efforts to address inequality and oppression. The narrative sheds light on how historical struggles continue to influence contemporary socio-political dynamics in the region.

The audio story critiques India's development model, highlighting how economic liberalization has deepened inequality and concentrated wealth among elites. It explores the corporate-state nexus that prioritizes private profit over public goods, exacerbating social disparities and neglecting the needs of marginalized populations. The narrative emphasizes the urgent need for policy reforms to address these systemic failures.

The audio story explores Tamil actor Vijay’s emergence as a political force in Tamil Nadu through his TVK party, examining his potential to reshape Dravidian politics and nationalism in the state. Vijay’s foray, rooted in his stardom, could challenge established alliances, including the DMK-led coalition. The narrative dives into the intricate ties between cinema and politics in Tamil Nadu, contextualizing Vijay’s rise.

This article delves into the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, analyzing its implications, controversies, and contradictions with the BJP's "one nation, one law" principle. It explores the bill's potential impact on minority rights and property governance while questioning its alignment with constitutional values and social justice. Faizan Mustafa, a noted legal scholar and expert on constitutional law, provides a critical perspective on the bill, framing it within India's broader political and legal context.

This article examines the environmental and health crisis caused by the Bandhwari landfill in Gurugram, a massive site of toxic waste impacting nearby communities and ecosystems. It discusses the challenges of managing urban waste in India, the inefficiencies in implementation under initiatives like Swachh Bharat, and the urgent need for sustainable waste management policies. By addressing pollution and its human cost, the piece underscores the critical balance required between urbanization and environmental responsibility.

The article delves into the environmental controversy surrounding Vedanta’s oil exploration project in Assam’s Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary. It highlights the potential ecological damage to the habitat of the endangered hoolock gibbon and critiques the clearance process, which has sparked concerns among conservationists and locals. The narrative explores the tension between industrial development and wildlife conservation, emphasizing the need for sustainable environmental policies.

This article examines the Musi Riverfront beautification project in Hyderabad, which has led to the demolition of homes and the displacement of over 160 families. It critiques the Telangana government’s approach, comparing it to international urban renewal projects like those on the Thames, and questions the socio-economic and human cost of such evictions. The narrative sheds light on the affected communities' plight and the broader implications for urban development in India.

This article highlights the challenges faced by India's rural poor due to bank account freezes caused by stringent Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations. It explores the human rights implications of denying financial access and dignity to marginalized communities, emphasizing the disproportionate impact on those already struggling with systemic inequities. The analysis underscores the need for a more compassionate and inclusive approach to banking policies.

The article examines the complex dynamics of a potential war involving Israel, Iran, and their respective allies in West Asia, including Lebanon, Hamas, and Hezbollah. It delves into the key players—Netanyahu, Sinwar, Haniyeh, and Nasrallah—highlighting their strategies and the geopolitical stakes.

Uma Mahadevan-Dasgupta reviews the biography of Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, an influential Indian feminist and freedom fighter, written by Nico Slate. The article explores Kamaladevi’s pivotal role in India's independence movement and her profound contributions to the fields of arts, crafts, and women’s rights. It highlights her commitment to social justice and her efforts to preserve Indian handicrafts, making her an iconic figure in India's cultural and political landscape. Mahadevan-Dasgupta underscores the book's portrayal of Kamaladevi as a visionary who challenged social norms and fought for the upliftment of marginalized communities.

Tabish Khair critically analyzes the ongoing violence in Gaza and the broader implications of Israel’s actions in Palestine, raising concerns about genocide, Zionism, and the global response. He explores the intersection of Jewish identity, anti-Semitism, and the culpability of Western regimes in perpetuating the conflict. Khair delves into how international media often fails to offer a balanced perspective on the situation, framing the violence in ways that obscure the larger dynamics at play. He also reflects on the role of Western political and cultural influence in shaping narratives around the Israel-Palestine conflict.

R.K. Radhakrishnan examines the rise of Udhayanidhi Stalin, the Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, and his growing influence within the DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam) and Tamil Nadu politics. The article explores his political journey, challenges, and the legacy of his father, M.K. Stalin, the Chief Minister. Radhakrishnan provides a nuanced perspective on Udhayanidhi's leadership, his vision for the state, and the broader implications of his political ascent, while considering the ongoing dynamics within the DMK and its impact on Tamil Nadu's future.

Ashish Ranjan delves into the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir following the 2024 assembly election results, highlighting the National Conference (NC) alliance's success in securing a majority. The article sheds light on the persistent regional divide, with the BJP maintaining significant support in Jammu, while the NC-led alliance dominated in Kashmir. Ranjan analyzes the implications of these results for regional politics, governance, and the Union Territory’s path forward, providing insights into the evolving political dynamics that continue to shape Jammu and Kashmir.

In this article, Peter Ronald deSouza examines the shifting landscape of employment opportunities and challenges facing India's youth, particularly in the context of the country's vast demographic dividend. He explores the impact of the digital era, the rise of the gig economy, and the role of social media influencers on traditional employment models, while also considering the implications of internal migration and skill development needs. The article addresses the broader economic and social changes shaping youth employment and critiques policy responses, drawing attention to the urgency of sustainable job creation to harness India's demographic advantage.

This article explores the challenges Dalit writers face in gaining visibility within India’s English-language publishing industry, highlighting both the systemic barriers and social biases that contribute to the underrepresentation of Dalit literature. Through the experiences of authors like Sujatha Gidla, Yashica Dutt, and Suraj Yengde, the piece sheds light on how caste discrimination impacts not only content creation but also the reach and accessibility of works that voice Dalit experiences and perspectives. It underscores the importance of breaking these barriers to amplify Dalit voices in mainstream discourse and literature.

Priyamvada Mangal examines the environmental and urban pressures faced by Mumbai’s Koli fishing community, which has sustained the city’s coastal culture and economy for generations. As Mumbai’s rapid urban development encroaches on traditional fishing areas, the Koli fisherfolk are confronting significant environmental challenges while striving to preserve their livelihoods. This piece, produced with support from the Thomson Reuters Foundation, offers an in-depth look at how one of Mumbai’s oldest communities is adapting to a changing urban landscape. Priyamvada Mangal is an independent photographer and journalist.

In an article by historian K.A. Manikumar, the 75th anniversary of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) is examined as a milestone in Tamil Nadu’s political and social history, deeply intertwined with the legacy of M. Karunanidhi. Manikumar highlights how the DMK, under the influence of leaders like Karunanidhi, has championed social justice and Tamil identity, profoundly shaping the state’s policies and culture. As Tamil Nadu celebrates Karunanidhi’s centenary, the article reflects on DMK's journey, its achievements, and its continued impact on contemporary social justice movements and political discourse.

Under growing strain, the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) between India and Pakistan is facing new challenges, particularly as India seeks modifications to address disputes over project rights on the western rivers allocated to Pakistan. This development has sparked diplomatic tensions and raised questions about the treaty’s future viability. While the IWT has endured decades of conflict and political strain, the current situation underscores the need for a balanced approach and cooperative dialogue to maintain water-sharing stability in the region.

Vivek Katju examines the recent tensions surrounding the Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan, assessing the implications of potential modifications for regional stability. He sheds light on the strategic considerations both nations face amid fluctuating diplomatic relations and increasing pressure on water resources.

Amey Tirodkar explores the controversial land grabs in Mumbai, focusing on how redevelopment initiatives led by the Adani Group and the Maharashtra government are displacing slum dwellers. The article highlights the tension between urban development and the rights of vulnerable communities.