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Panduranga Hegde, environmentalist and pioneer of the Appiko movement, speaks with TOI about the changing face of activism, political apathy, and why hope lies in the quiet strength of grassroots movements. He is the recipient of the inaugural MP Veerendra Kumar Memorial National Thought Leadership Award Gone are the days when environmental activism unfolded through…
If the same analytical “tool”, when placed in the hands of different people, tells us two radically different things, such as that lockdowns are good and that they are bad, it means we are not dealing with science but with quackery. As I have shown earlier, ethics and epidemiological models fall in that category. In…
As India’s Test cricket team navigates a transitional phase, the question of who should succeed Rohit Sharma as captain has sparked intense debate among fans, analysts, and former players. With Rohit having retired from Test cricket, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) must identify a leader capable of steering the team through…
India stands at a pivotal crossroads in its climate journey. On one hand, the country has made remarkable progress: the rapid expansion of renewable energy capacity, the mainstreaming of electric vehicles, and its leadership at forums such as COP28 have all signaled a firm commitment to decarbonization. On the other hand, the grassroots narrative—how rural…
Every year on May 17, health organizations and communities worldwide observe World Hypertension Day—an essential initiative aimed at raising awareness about high blood pressure, often referred to as the “silent killer.” This year’s theme, “Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer,” is a stark reminder that prevention, early detection, and effective management of…
A new museum aims to preserve the cultural and historical legacy of Kochi’s Paradesi Jewish community Though only one Paradesi Jew remains in Kochi today, the community’s profound legacy lives on. From introducing electricity and ferry transport to enriching the city’s culture, their contributions have left an indelible mark. Now, a museum is being established…
History’s heavy hand How hundreds of families became trapped in a legal battle over a label they never chose One of my uncles had gone to Pakistan for work and returned in 1958. Our ancestral property was divided about 20 years ago,” explains Abdu Khader of Nannambra in Malappuram. “Yet, I received a Central govt…
Comms wars are shaping our reality, but we can fight back We are in the midst of a communication war. From what we consume on TV and internet to our visits to shopping malls and our news consumption patterns, there is a constant battle for our attention. Surprisingly, the same mechanisms that influence our choices…
The UK-India Free Trade Agreement, signed on May 6, 2025, represents more than just an economic transaction—it’s a geopolitical masterstroke unlocking £25.5 billion in bilateral trade by 2040. For Labour, this deal serves as a strategic move, anchoring Britain to India’s £4.19 trillion democratic powerhouse amid multiple global challenges. Post-Brexit Britain, having suffered a 15%…
What if I told you that everything you achieve in life, your happiness, relationships, and success is a direct reflection of your thoughts? How would you react? It’s true—your thoughts are the architects of your reality. The quality of your life hinges not just on what you think, but also on what you choose to…
