• NUS ISAS
    • Print

    A weekly podcast on key developments in South Asia.

    Title: Episode 175: An Overview of COP27
    Guest Speaker/s: Ms Anumita Roychowdhury
    Designation: Executive Director, Research and Advocacy
    Centre for Science and Environment
    Abstract: Climate change is developing into a terrifying truth that the world needs to address immediately. The COP27, a global summit on the climate change held by the parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is the biggest and most important climate-related conference in the world. Recently held in Egypt, this year’s vision focused on 4 goals: mitigation of climate change, adaptation to face the challenges of a changing climate, financing efforts to address climate change and collaboration between member nations to achieve results in a balanced way. Ms Harpreet Kaur, Editor at ISAS, speaks to Ms Anumita Roychowdhury, Executive Director, Research and Advocacy at the Centre for Science and Environment, (CSE), in New Delhi, on the key outcomes of the summit.
    Audio:
    Date: 29 December 2022
    Title: Episode 174: A Tough End to 2022 for Bangladesh
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Masudur Rahman
    Designation: Visiting Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: It has been a tough year for South Asia. From changes in governments and terrorist traumas to climatic vicissitudes and pandemic challenges, the region is likely to continue facing several severe challenges, moving forward. In recent times, Bangladesh has been one of the more positive stories coming out of South Asia, in terms of political stability and economic growth. However, it too seems to have fallen prey to this South Asian ‘curse’. Ms Harpreet Kaur, Editor at ISAS, speaks with Dr Masudur Rahman, Visiting Research Fellow at ISAS, as he assesses the volatile situation in Bangladesh and its repercussions.
    Audio:
    Date: 20 December 2022
    Title: Episode 173: State Elections in Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh
    Guest Speaker/s: Professor Sanjay Kumar
    Designation: Director
    Centre for the Study of Developing Societies, India
    Abstract: In the recently held Indian state elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party returned to power in Gujarat for the seventh consecutive time, seeing a jump in its vote share to 52.5 per cent. On its part, the Aam Aadmi Party’s entry into Gujarat dramatically changed political equations in the state. In Himachal Pradesh, the Congress returned to power, continuing the state's tradition of anti-incumbency. In this episode, Dr Ronojoy Sen, Senior Research Fellow and Research Lead (Politics, Society and Governance), spoke to Professor Sanjay Kumar, Professor and Co-Director of Lokniti, a Research Programme at the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies, India. They discussed the recent election results, the performance of the various parties, and its implications in the coming days.
    Audio:
    Date: 14 December 2022
    Title: Episode 172: India-Russia Relations
    Guest Speaker/s: Mr Nandan Unnikrishnan
    Designation: Distinguished Fellow
    Observer Research Foundation
    Abstract: Russia is one of India's strongest strategic partners and its principal defence supplier. However, Russia's war in Ukraine has catapulted this relationship to public scrutiny like never before. Despite harsh criticism from the Western countries, New Delhi has defended its public position which remains averse to openly criticising Russia. India has also used the current situation to fulfil its national interests, particularly through the import of national resources from a heavily sanctioned Russian economy. In this episode, Dr Yogesh Joshi, Research Fellow, ISAS, discusses the contemporary developments and its implications with Mr Nandan Unnikrishnan, Distinguished Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, New Delhi, India.
    Audio:
    Date: 06 December 2022
    Title: Episode 171: The Quad and Ransomware
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Karthik Nachiappan
    Designation: Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: The Quad members – Australia, India, Japan and the United States – recently announced their joint efforts to combat cyber-attacks with an added focus on ransomware. Their aim is to create a safer and concrete cyber-world, primarily in the Indo-Pacific. The Quad members are very focussed on their vision and amongst their six verticals, cyber-security appears to take precedence. Ms Harpreet Kaur, Editor, at ISAS, speaks to Dr Karthik Nachiappan, Research Fellow, ISAS, to understand the motivation behind the Quad’s focus on ransomware and how this cooperation will benefit the Quad alliance.
    Audio:
    Date: 29 November 2022
    Title: Episode 170: G20 in Bali – Analysis
    Guest Speaker/s: Ms Sharon Koshy
    Designation: Research Associate
    Centre for Public Policy Research, India
    Abstract: In November 2022, the G20 leaders met for a two-day summit in Bali, Indonesia. Under the theme of this year, 'Recover Together, Recover Stronger’, the leaders, in a joint common declaration, raised important issues such as food and energy security, climate and biodiversity, health and digital transformation. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, speaks to Ms Sharon Koshy, Research Associate, Centre for Public Policy Research in Kochi, India. They discuss the G20 summit and related developments.
    Audio:
    Date: 22 November 2022
    Title: Episode 169: The 1962 War – Reflection of Sino-Indian Relations
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Jabin Jacob
    Designation: Associate Professor
    Shiv Nadar University, India
    Abstract: In October 1962, India and China fought their only war. Sixty years later, the border dispute remains unresolved with Delhi and Beijing confronting multiple crises over the past decade. The rivalry is not only underlined by the United States-China contestation but also by an increasing competition between India and China. In this episode, Dr Yogesh Joshi, Research Fellow, ISAS, speaks to Dr Jabin Jacob, Associate Professor, Department of International Relations and Governance Studies, Shiv Nadar University, India, and Adjunct Research Fellow, National Maritime Foundation, India. They discuss the implications of the 1962 India-China war and its shadow on the developments in contemporary bilateral relations.
    Audio:
    Date: 15 November 2022
    Title: Episode 168: The Crises in Pakistan
    Guest Speaker/s: Associate Professor Iqbal Singh Sevea
    Designation: Director, ISAS
    Abstract: Pakistan currently faces gargantuan political, economic, and social challenges. The ouster of former prime minister Imran Khan in April 2022 continues to produce ongoing political turmoil, uncertainties, and violence across the country. A fragile economy, recent devastating floods and mounting cost of living have compounded social distress and unrest. In this episode, Dr Imran Ahmed, Visiting Research Fellow, ISAS, discusses recent developments in Pakistan with Associate Professor Iqbal Singh Sevea, Director, ISAS, and unpacks the causes and consequences of Pakistan’s current political and economic crises.
    Audio:
    Date: 09 November 2022
    Title: Episode 167: G20 Bali Summit – What to Expect
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Amitendu Palit
    Designation: Senior Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: The G20 summit will take place in Bali, Indonesia on 15 and 16 November 2022. The G20, an intergovernmental forum to maintain economic stability and foster economic growth, represents more than 80 per cent of the global Gross Domestic Product, 75 per cent of international trade and 60 per cent of the world population. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS speaks to Dr Amitendu Palit, Senior Research Fellow and Research Lead (Trade and Economics), ISAS. They discuss potential issues that are likely to be raised at the summit, prospects of economic recovery post-COVID, challenges posed by the Russia-Ukraine war and the role of developing market economies, including India.
    Audio:
    Date: 01 November 2022
    Title: Episode 166: Renewable Energy in India
    Guest Speaker/s: Ms Disha Agarwal
    Designation: Senior Programme Lead
    CEEW, India
    Abstract: A report released by the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis noted record levels of investment in India’s renewable energy sector, with a total of US$14.5 billion (S$20.6 billion) invested in FY2021-2022. These figures reflect a 125 per cent growth compared to FY2020-2021 and are 72 per cent higher than the pre-pandemic levels of FY2019-2020. In this episode, Ms Disha Agarwal, Senior Programme Lead, Council on Energy, Environment and Water, India, speaks on the growth of the renewable energy sector in India, and the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. She is in conversation with Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS.
    Audio:
    Date: 18 October 2022
    Title: Episode 165: Food Security in India and South Asia
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Bornali Bhandari
    Designation: Senior Fellow, NCAER
    Abstract: Global food prices have risen sharply after the COVID19 pandemic and Ukraine conflict. Food shortages have also exacerbated due to crop failures arising from extreme weather events. More shortages have arisen due to restrictions on cross-country movements of food. In this podcast, we discuss the food security challenges for India and South Asia. The discussion analyzes policies for tackling food inflation, the challenges arising for affordable food distribution through public distribution systems, consequences of extreme weather events on food supplies and the role of technological solutions in addressing the food supply issues.
    Audio:
    Date: 11 October 2022
    Title: Episode 164: Bangladesh’s Economy and Growing Chinese Investments
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Mohammad Masudur Rahman
    Designation: Visiting Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: Bangladesh’s economy, like many countries around the world, is challenged by multiple macro-economic issues induced due to the aftermath of the pandemic and the continuing geo-political conflicts. While the country tries to deal with the economic issues by actively forging economic partnerships in and around the region, it is noticeable that the Chinese investments in the country has steadily risen. In this episode we talk to Dr Mohammad Masudur Rahman to understand this growing nexus between Bangladesh’s economy and the rising Chinese investments.
    Audio:
    Date: 04 October 2022
    Title: Episode 163: India’s Strategic Choices
    Guest Speaker/s: Professor C Raja Mohan
    Designation: Visiting Research Professor, ISAS
    Abstract: The year 2022 marks 75 years of Indian independence and foreign policy making where much has changed and remained unchanged both domestically and internationally. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, discusses India’s strategic choices in a seemingly shifting world order with Professor C Raja Mohan, Senior Fellow, Asia Society Policy Institute, New Delhi and Visiting Research Professor, ISAS. They cover issues pertaining to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, the growing interest in Central Asia, India's relations with Russia, the United States and its South Asian neighbours, and the country's minilateral endeavours.
    Audio:
    Date: 27 September 2022
    Title: Episode 162: Beyond Floods Pakistan’s Climate Crisis
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Ayesha Siddiqi
    Designation: Assistant Professor
    University of Cambridge
    Abstract: Pakistan is experiencing devastating floods. The catastrophic losses Pakistan has incurred due to the floods are evident. However, there is still much to enquire on the topic surrounding disaster management and humanitarian aid in Pakistan, and potentially, in South Asia. In this episode, Dr Ayesha Siddiqi, Assistant Professor, University of Cambridge, analyses the cause and impact of the floods, and what this means for Pakistan’s climate crisis management. She is in conversation with Ms Kunthavi Kalachelvam, Research Analyst, ISAS.
    Audio:
    Date: 20 September 2022
    Title: Episode 161: Tough Times for the Congress
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Rahul Verma
    Designation: Fellow, Centre of Policy Research
    Abstract: The Indian National Congress has been on a freefall since the 2014 general elections when the Bharatiya Janata Party stormed to power. So far, no meaningful efforts have been made for the revival of the grand old party. Since 2014, several leaders at all levels have exited the party and questions have been raised on Rahul Gandhi's leadership. In this episode, Dr Ronojoy Sen, Senior Research Fellow and Research Lead (Politics, Society and Governance), ISAS discusses the future of the Congress Party with Dr Rahul Verma, Fellow, Centre of Policy Research and Visiting Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Ashoka University.
    Audio:
    Date: 13 September 2022
    Title: Episode 160: India Commissions INS Vikrant
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Yogesh Joshi
    Designation: Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: On 2 September, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned the country’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant. The 45,000 tonne warship is the largest one to be built by India and has now successfully completed one year of sea trials. With the US$3 billion (S$4.2 billion) worth Vikrant, India has now joined an elite league of the world’s naval powers. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, spoke to Dr Yogesh Joshi, Research Fellow, ISAS about INS Vikrant, and India’s defence capabilities and naval strategy.
    Audio:
    Date: 06 September 2022
    Title: Episode 159: Recent Developments in Afghanistan
    Guest Speaker/s: Associate Professor Avinash Paliwal
    Designation: Deputy Director, SOAS South Asia Institute
    Abstract: The 15th of August marks a year since the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul. In this episode of South Asia Chat, Associate Professor Avinash Paliwal speaks to Dr Imran Ahmed, Visiting Research Fellow at ISAS, about recent developments in Afghanistan, taking stock of a year of turmoil, surprises and conflict in the country and its implications for neighbouring states and the international community. Afghanistan’s complex and evolving politics continues to beset significant challenges for regional and global powers alike.
    Audio:
    Date: 30 August 2022
    Title: Episode 158: India’s Foreign Trade Policy
    Guest Speaker/s: Ms R.V. Anuradha
    Designation: Partner, Clarus Law Associates
    Abstract: India is expected to launch a new medium term foreign trade policy(FTP) that will succeed the earlier FTP (2015-2020). The FTP comes after the COVID-19 pandemic and India’s recent robust engagement in FTAs. In this episode, we join Dr Amitendu Palit, Senior Research Fellow and Research Lead (Trade & Economics) at ISAS-NUS and Ms R.V. Anuradha, Partner, Clarus Law Associates, as they discuss the thematic emphasis of the upcoming FTP, it’s prospects and alignment with new generation trade issues.
    Audio:
    Date: 23 August 2022
    Title: Episode 157: The Sri Lankan Crisis – Latest Developments
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Chulanee Attanayake and Dr Rajni Gamage
    Abstract: Sri Lanka is currently facing its worst economic crisis in 70 years. The economic meltdown has also sparked a political crisis. Sri Lankans, who see no end to their financial burdens, have taken to the streets. The protests have pressured the Rajapaksas to leave not only high politics but also the country. This political vacuum formed by the Rajapaksas saw the former Prime Minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe, take office as President, with Dinesh Gunawardena serving as Prime Minister. Amidst these developments, Sri Lanka is seeking its seventeenth International Monetary Fund bailout loan. In this episode, Ms Shavinyaa Vijaykumarr, Research Analyst, ISAS, spoke to Dr Chulanee Attanayake, Research Fellow, ISAS, and Dr Rajni Gamage, Post-doctoral Fellow, ISAS. They discussed economic restructuring policies, diplomacy and foreign policy considerations, and Sri Lanka's domestic political outlook.
    Audio:
    Date: 16 August 2022
    Title: Episode 156: Indian Presidential Elections
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Narayan Lakshman
    Designation: Non-Resident Senior Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: On 25 July 2022, Droupadi Murmu took oath as the 15th President of India. A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led National Democratic Alliance candidate, President Murmu is a former governor of Jharkhand and a two-time legislator from Odisha. She is also the first person from a tribal background and the second woman to occupy the office. In this episode, Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, spoke to Dr Narayan Lakshman, Associate Editor, The Hindu, and Non-Resident Senior Fellow, ISAS. They discussed the role and powers of the president, the BJP's potential political gains, the state of opposition unity, and what we can expect over the next five years.
    Audio:
    Date: 11 August 2022
    Title: Episode 155: The Rise of Chinese Private Security Companies
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Alessandro Arduino
    Designation: Principal Research Fellow
    Middle East Institute, NUS
    Abstract: With the launch of the Belt and Road Initiative, Chinese private security companies (PSCs) have expanded their footprint worldwide to protect Chinese nationals and projects, making private security a lucrative emerging industry. Many observers and analysts have attempted to examine the emergence of such private security companies with Chinese characteristics. In this episode, Ms Claudia Chia, Research Analyst, ISAS, discusses the presence of Chinese PSCs in Pakistan and Afghanistan, as well as related issues surrounding the global expansion of Chinese PSCs, with Dr Alessandro Arduino, Principal Research Fellow, Middle East Institute, National University of Singapore.
    Audio:
    Date: 02 August 2022
    Title: Episode 154: ‘The New BJP’ – A Book Discussion
    Guest Speaker/s: Professor Nalin Mehta
    Designation: ISAS Non-Resident Senior Fellow
    Abstract: In this episode of South Asia Chat, we look at the new Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) through the prism of Hindu Nationalism, or Hindutva. Critics see the BJP’s back-to-back general election victories, the start of the construction of a Ram temple in the north Indian town of Ayodhya and the rise of ‘Hindu majoritarianism’ as a danger to India's liberally secular foundations. Proponents of Hindu nationalism, to compare, argue that it offers a “vital cultural corrective to the cultural foundation of the nation”, which is already grounded in a respect for diverse communities. Given the chasm in this debate, this episode dives into how the BJP is recasting modernity in the 21st century. John Vater, an Independent Writer and Ex-Research Associate at ISAS, speaks to Professor Nalin Mehta, ISAS Non-Resident Senior Fellow and author of the book, ‘The New BJP’.
    Audio:
    Date: 26 July 2022
    Title: Episode 153: Revisiting India-Japan Ties
    Guest Speaker/s: Emeritus Professor Purnendra Jain
    Designation: School of Social Sciences
    The University of Adelaide
    Abstract: India and Japan share a rich bilateral relationship today. Though historically, this hasn’t been the case, their ties have evolved significantly against the background of China’s Rise, shifting South Asian dynamics, and increased regional cooperation. In current times, both countries are involved in various common projects and initiatives such as the recently launched Indo-Pacific Economic Framework(IPEC) and Quad. This discussion further analyses the future trajectory of this bilateral relationship taking into consideration historical factors and contemporary restraints. In this episode, Ms Kunthavi Kalachelvam, Research Analyst, ISAS, discusses the overview of India-Japan ties and what’s to come, with Emeritus Professor Purnendra Jain, School of Social Sciences, The University of Adelaide.
    Audio:
    Date: 19 July 2022
    Title: Episode 152: Socio-Economic Developments in Balochistan
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Hafeez Jamali
    Designation: Social Anthropologist
    Abstract: Balochistan is the largest province in Pakistan with several mega projects taking place there. The province is strategically located near a coastal belt and is home to the Gwadar port. Though the province might seem to be economically thriving, there are current concerns related to the future of socio-economic development in Balochistan and how sustainable this growth can be. It is vital to understand how these factors affect both local perspectives and state-level policy-making. In this episode, Ms Kunthavi Kalachelvam, Research Analyst, ISAS, discusses the intricate socio-economic dynamics in Balochistan with Dr Hafeez Jamali, Social Anthropologist and a civil servant.
    Audio:
    Date: 12 July 2022
    Title: Episode 151: Environmental Security in South Asia
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Sufia Khanom
    Designation: Senior Research Fellow
    Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies
    Abstract: In 2022, the World Bank declared South Asia to be one of the most vulnerable regions to climate shocks. With intensifying heat waves, cyclones, droughts and floods across the subcontinent, governments, businesses, and citizens are having to adapt to their 'new climate normal'. South Asia is home to more than 600 million poor people, where climate resilient solutions have become the need of the hour. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, discusses South Asia's environmental security and related issues with Dr Sufia Khanom, Senior Research Fellow, Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies.
    Audio:
    Date: 06 July 2022
    Title: Episode 150: India’s Agnipath Scheme
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Yogesh Joshi
    Designation: Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: In June 2022, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced the Agnipath scheme for short-term recruitment in the armed forces. While there has been resounding opposition on the streets, top defence personnel have clarified that there will be no rollback of the scheme. In this episode, Dr Yogesh Joshi, Research Fellow, ISAS, analyses the motivations behind the Agnipath scheme, and the opportunities and challenges it presents. He is in conversation with Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS.
    Audio:
    Date: 28 June 2022
    Title: Episode 149: Bangladesh’s Economic Outlook
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Mohammad Masudur Rahman
    Designation: Visiting Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: Bangladesh’s economy is in the midst of tackling a host of macro-economic issues including rising prices, exchange rate volatility and subsequent widening of its current account balance. The pandemic is far from over and geo-political conflicts have fueled inflationary pressures and commodity shortages worldwide. Additionally, Bangladesh’s economy is due to undergo a change owing to its impending graduation from the United Nation's List of Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and the upcoming general elections in 2023. In this episode, Ms Divya Murali, Research Analyst, ISAS, spoke to Dr Mohammad Masudur Rahman, Visiting Research Fellow, ISAS, to understand how internal and external factors facing Bangladesh affect its economic outlook in the next few years.
    Audio:
    Date: 21 June 2022
    Title: Episode 148: India’s New VPN Rules
    Guest Speaker/s: Mr Gurshabad Grover
    Designation: Information Controls Fellow
    Open Observatory of Network Interference
    Abstract: The Indian government's recent announcement will force Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to retain user data for five years. This move is set to have important ramifications for data protection and user privacy in India. In this episode of South Asia Chat, Dr Karthik Nachiappan, Research Fellow, ISAS, spoke to Mr Gurshabad Grover, Information Controls Fellow, Open Observatory of Network Interference. They discussed India's new VPN rules as well as broader issues related to internet governance in the country.
    Audio:
    Date: 14 June 2022
    Title: Episode 147: Pakistan’s Foreign Policy
    Guest Speaker/s: Professor Touqir Hussain
    Designation: Visiting Senior Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: Pakistan has seen various tumultuous events take place within a short period of time over this past year. With an economic crisis on the horizon and a change in political leadership, both its foreign and domestic policies trajectory has been subjected to multiple changes. In this episode, Professor Touqir Hussain, Former Pakistan Diplomat and Visiting Senior Research Fellow, ISAS, discusses the nuances in Pakistan’s geopolitical strategies and analyses its various foreign policy considerations. He is in conversation with Ms Kunthavi Kalachelvam, Research Analyst, ISAS.
    Audio:
    Date: 07 June 2022
    Title: Episode 146: The IPEF – What, Why and How
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Amitendu Palit
    Designation: Senior Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: On 23 May 2022, US President Joe Biden announced the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF). Albeit an unconventional trade framework, with the membership of ASEAN countries, India, and advanced OECD countries, the IPEF is promising. In this episode, Dr Amitendu Palit, Senior Research Fellow and Research Lead (Trade and Economics), ISAS, discusses the potential economic development from the IPEF, India’s engagement in the framework and the IPEF’s implications for the region. He is in conversation with Ms Namrata Yadav, Research Analyst, ISAS.
    Audio:
    Date: 31 May 2022
    Title: Episode 145: India-South Korea Ties
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Lakhvinder Singh
    Designation: Director of Peace and Security Studies
    Asia Institute, South Korea
    Abstract: On 10 May 2022, Yoon Suk Yeol was sworn in as South Korea's new president, and the leader of the nation's first conservative government in five years. His leadership is expected to revise many aspects of South Korean foreign policy orientations and goals. In this episode, Ms Claudia Chia, Research Analyst, ISAS, spoke to Dr Lakhvinder Singh, Director of Peace and Security Studies at the Asia Institute in Seoul, South Korea, on the new foreign policy goals of the Yoon administration and how it would impact the relations between India and South Korea.
    Audio:
    Date: 24 May 2022
    Title: Episode 144: China’s Engagements in South Asia
    Guest Speaker/s: Ambassador Shivshankar Menon
    Designation: Distinguished Visiting Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: Over the last few years, China has dramatically increased its economic, security and people-to-people engagements across South Asia. In this vein, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visits to six out of eight South Asian countries in early 2022 is reflective of Beijing's efforts in the subcontinent. In this episode, Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, discusses China’s growing role in South Asia and its geopolitical implications, with Ambassador Shivshankar Menon, Distinguished Visiting Research Fellow, ISAS. Ambassador Menon has been a career diplomat, who has served as National Security Adviser to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. He also served as the Foreign Secretary and Indian ambassador to China, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Israel.
    Audio:
    Date: 17 May 2022
    Title: Episode 143: Australia and the Indian Ocean – Priorities, Responses and Challenges
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Bec Strating
    Designation: Director, La Trobe Asia
    Abstract: The Indian Ocean is crucial for Australia’s national security and economic prosperity. Among others, Canberra’s involvement in the Quad and AUKUS is geared towards enhancing its presence and forging security ties with the region. The countries of the Indian Ocean are not just Australia's neighbours, several of them are also the country’s key economic and security partners. In addition to highlighting the importance of the Indian Ocean to Australia’s national interest, this episode will shed light on Canberra’s initiatives and challenges in deepening ties with India and the other South Asian states. ISAS Research Fellow Dr Chulanee Attanayake, discusses the key issues with Dr Bec Strating, Director of La Trobe Asia, and an Associate Professor in Politics and International Relations in the Department of Politics, Media and Philosophy, in La Trobe University, Australia.
    Audio:
    Date: 11 May 2022
    Title: Episode 142: India’s Space Sector Boom
    Guest Speaker/s: Mr Aditya Ramanathan
    Designation: Associate Fellow, The Takshashila Institution
    Abstract: In recent times, India has been rapidly expanding its space programme, undertaking a series of steps to increase its capability and presence. This includes a decision to liberalise the space sector as well as commitments of collaboration and partnership at the bilateral and regional levels. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS discusses India's space policy landscape and strategy, and the broader regional implications with Mr Aditya Ramanathan, Associate Fellow, The Takshashila Institution.
    Audio:
    Date: 04 May 2022
    Title: Episode 141: The Sri Lankan Economic Crisis
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Ganeshan Wignaraja
    Designation: Non-Resident Senior Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: Sri Lanka is currently facing an unprecedented economic meltdown and political crisis. With soaring inflation and a shortage in essentials, citizens have taken to the streets in protest. Amid Sri Lanka seeking its seventeenth IMF bailout loan, there are calls for major re-orientations in the country's economic policies. In this episode, Dr Chulanee Attanayake, Research Fellow, ISAS, spoke to Dr Ganeshan Wignaraja, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, ISAS. They covered topics including trends in Sri Lanka's debt and economic crisis, the IMF bailout, potential economic policy revisions and broader lessons for South Asia.
    Audio:
    Date: 27 April 2022
    Title: Episode 140: India-Aus FTA – Boost to Bilateral Ties
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Amitendu Palit
    Designation: Senior Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: On 2 April 202, India and Australia signed an Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement. The long-awaited India-Australia FTA is expected to almost double bilateral annual trade in the next five years and is hence seen as a major milestone in deepening bilateral cooperation. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS spoke to Dr Amitendu Palit, Senior Research Fellow and Research Lead (Trade and Economics) at ISAS on the recently signed agreement and its implications on India-Australia bilateral trade and strategic cooperation.
    Audio:
    Date: 20 April 2022
    Title: Episode 139: Political Upheaval in Pakistan
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Iqbal Singh Sevea
    Designation: Director, ISAS
    Abstract: In the past week, Pakistan has witnessed intense political drama. After several twists and turns, the events culminated in the passing of a vote of no confidence in the parliament that brought an end to Imran Khan's tenure as Prime Minister. In this episode, Dr Iqbal Singh Sevea, Director, ISAS delves into the commotion, upheaval and change in Pakistan's politics. He is in conversation with Dr Imran Ahmed, Visiting Research Fellow, ISAS.
    Audio:
    Date: 12 April 2022
    Title: Episode 138: Ratification of the MCC Nepal Compact
    Guest Speaker/s: Mr Lekhanath Pandey
    Designation: Assistant Professor
    Tribhuvan University, Nepal
    Abstract: In February 2022, the Nepal government ratified the controversial Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Nepal Compact, which had been on hold for five years. In this episode, Mr Lekhanath Pandey, Assistant Professor of Journalism at Tribhuvan University, Nepal, discusses the implications of this move on Nepal’s domestic politics as well as its foreign policy. He is in conversation with Ms Wini Fred Gurung, Research Analyst, ISAS.
    Audio:
    Date: 05 April 2022
    Title: Episode 137: India’s Digital Currencies
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Amitendu Palit
    Designation: Senior Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: In India’s Union Budget this year, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the country’s plans to introduce a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) as well as a tax on earnings from digital assets. These announcements reflect India's efforts to embrace digital currencies as the next step in the evolution of digital financial transformation in India. In this episode, Dr Amitendu Palit, Senior Research Fellow and Research Lead (Trade and Economics), ISAS discusses the latest developments regarding India's digital currencies. He is in conversation with Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS.
    Audio:
    Date: 29 March 2022
    Title: Episode 136: Indian State Elections – Punjab
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Ashutosh Kumar
    Designation: Professor and Chairperson
    Department of Political Science, Panjab University
    Abstract: In the recently held Punjab state assembly elections, the people voted overwhelmingly in favour of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The election result has displaced the stronghold of the traditional parties in the state, Indian National Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal, and has given AAP the chance at governance outside Delhi. In the second and final part of the Indian state assembly election series, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS spoke to Dr Ashutosh Kumar, Professor and Chairperson, Department of Political Science, Panjab University. In this episode, he decoded the Punjab election verdict and what it means for state and national politics in the coming days.
    Audio:
    Date: 22 March 2022
    Title: Episode 135: Indian State Elections – Uttar Pradesh
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Neelanjan Sircar
    Designation: Senior Visiting Fellow
    Centre for Policy Research
    New Delhi
    Abstract: On 10 March, the results of the elections held across five Indian states were announced. Much of the attention was focused on Uttar Pradesh (UP), the largest and most populous state in the country, where the Bharatiya Janata Party made a resounding victory. In the first episode of the two-part series on the Indian elections, Dr Ronojoy Sen, Senior Research Fellow and Research Lead (Politics, Society and Governance), ISAS discussed the UP assembly election results with Dr Neelanjan Sircar, Senior Visiting Fellow, Centre for Policy Research, New Delhi and Non-Resident Fellow, Center for the Advanced Study of India, University of Pennsylvania. They covered themes including electoral behaviour, the question of caste politics, religious polarisation, the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the implications of the results for the upcoming general elections in 2024.
    Audio:
    Date: 15 March 2022
    Title: Episode 134: Russian Invasion of Ukraine – The South Asian Dilemma
    Guest Speaker/s: Mr Michael Kugelman
    Designation: Director of the Asia Program, Wilson Center, USA
    Abstract: On 24 February 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a ‘special military operation’ in Ukraine. This breach of Ukraine's national sovereignty has resulted in the largest conventional military attack in Europe since World War II. The invasion has sparked a catastrophic humanitarian and security crisis on European soil, and an economic and political crisis, globally. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, spoke to Mr Michael Kugelman, Deputy Director of the Asia Program and Senior Associate for South Asia at the Wilson Center, United States, about the Russian invasion of Ukraine and its implications for the South Asian subcontinent. Mr Kugelman shared on Russia's motivations behind the invasion, impact of economic sanctions for South Asia, reasons for divided responses of South Asian countries, and the growing Sino-Russian axis and its implications for the regional and global balance of power.
    Audio:
    Date: 08 March 2022
    Title: Episode 133: Data Protection in India
    Guest Speaker/s: Mr Anirudh Burman
    Designation: Fellow and Associate Research Director
    Carnegie India
    Abstract: In December 2021, India's Joint Parliamentary Committee on data protection tabled its report on the Personal Data Protection (PDP) Bill in Parliament. The PDP Bill, once enacted, will regulate the collection, storage, use and transfer of data in the country. In this episode, Dr Karthik Nachiappan, Research Fellow spoke to Mr Anirudh Burman, Fellow and Associate Research Director, Carnegie India on recent developments in India's data protection framework and its implications on digital trade and New Delhi's relationship with Singapore. They also discussed issues concerning personal and non-personal data, and data localisation and state power, among others.
    Audio:
    Date: 01 March 2022
    Title: Episode 132: India’s Quest for Drones
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Yogesh Joshi
    Designation: Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: In 2021, India struck a deal to procure 30 armed drones from the United States for a cost of nearly US$3 billion (S$4 billion). While this is just the latest development in the Indian military’s use of drones over the past two decades, it is in line with a broader trend of drones' expanding use on the battlefield as well as in civilian spheres across the globe. In this vein, Nishant Rajeev, Research Analyst, ISAS, spoke to Dr Yogesh Joshi, Research Fellow, ISAS, to understand India’s quest to acquire, adopt, and deploy drones and its efforts to build a larger drone ecosystem.
    Audio:
    Date: 22 February 2022
    Title: Episode 131: Pakistan’s National Security Policy
    Guest Speaker/s: Associate Professor Iqbal Singh Sevea
    Designation: Director, ISAS
    Abstract: The National Security Policy of Pakistan was formally launched in early January this year. The document elaborates the state’s five-year national security vision and lays down some guidelines and steps to achieve important goals focused on the safety, security, and prosperity of its citizens. Dr Imran Ahmed, Visiting Research Fellow, ISAS, spoke to Associate Professor Iqbal Singh Sevea, Director, ISAS, on some of the themes, ideas and policies presented in the document. The discussion raised important questions concerning the internal and external threats to national security facing Pakistan today and the challenges that lie ahead for the country as it navigates a changing world order, mounting economic pressures and conflicts pulling at social cohesion and unity.
    Audio:
    Date: 15 February 2022
    Title: Episode 130: South Asia Outlook 2022 – Maldives
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Rasheeda Mohamed Didi
    Designation: Member
    Maldives Higher Education Council
    Abstract: The Maldives' strategic location in the Indian Ocean region grants this island state significant importance. Over the last two years, the Maldives has buoyantly weathered the storm of the pandemic, though the country continues to face domestic and international challenges. To discuss the Maldives' internal politics, geopolitical dilemma, COVID-19, environmental concerns, Islamic radicalisation and more, Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, spoke to Dr Rasheeda Mohamed Didi, an independent lecturer and researcher. Dr Didi is also a member of the Maldives Higher Education Council.
    Audio:
    Date: 11 February 2022
    Title: Episode 129: South Asia Outlook 2022 – Bhutan
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Dil Rahut
    Designation: Senior Research Fellow/Economist
    Asian Development Bank Institute
    Abstract: Bhutan, a Himalayan kingdom of nearly 800,000 people, has proved its resiliency amidst COVID-19’s ravages. Along with doubling its trade output with India over the last half decade, Bhutan oversaw what UNICEF hailed as 'arguably the fastest vaccination campaign to be executed during the pandemic'. At the same time, it has increased connectivity with India and boosted its levels of hydropower production. In this episode, John Vater spoke to Dil Rahut, Senior Research Fellow/Economist at the Asian Development Bank Institute, about the pandemic and climate change's effects on Bhutan’s most critical economic sectors. They discussed, among other things, Bhutan’s prospects for regional cross-border power cooperation, the push for sustainability as well as the evolving social profile of its globalising youth.
    Audio:
    Date: 08 February 2022
    Title: Episode 128: South Asia Outlook 2022 – The Union Budget of India
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Amitendu Palit
    Designation: Senior Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget in parliament on 1 February 2022. This year's budget is critical for India as the country emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic well-poised for a strong recovery and future growth. Alongside shoring up India's resiliency against future shocks, the budget lays a blueprint for the economy's enhanced, even supercharged, expansion as India becomes one of the world's fastest growing economies. In this episode, John Vater spoke to Amitendu Palit, Senior Research Fellow and Research Lead (Trade and Economics), ISAS, about the budget's aspirations.
    Audio:
    Date: 04 February 2022
    Title: Episode 127: South Asia Outlook 2022 – Afghanistan
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Srinjoy Bose
    Designation: Senior Lecturer
    University of New South Wales
    Abstract: The takeover of the Taliban last year has had undeniable consequences for Afghanistan. At the start of 2022, Kabul is faced with political tensions within the Taliban government, an economic and humanitarian crisis, and strained relations with other countries in the region. To discuss more about challenges and prospects for Afghanistan, Ramita Iyer spoke to Dr Srinjoy Bose, Senior Lecturer in International Relations and Politics, University of New South Wales. His work focuses on critical peace studies including political order and violence, and state formation and democratisation in fragile states and societies.
    Audio:
    Date: 28 January 2022
    Title: Episode 126: South Asia Outlook 2022 – India (Political)
    Guest Speaker/s: Mr Vinod Rai
    Designation: Distinguished Visiting Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: The year 2022 is an important one for India. On the domestic front, five states are going to the polls while on the international front, the continuing India-China rivalry, India's participation in the Quad and growing regional power of smaller countries are set to have significant implications for New Delhi. In this episode of the South Asia Outlook 2022 series, Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS discusses India's politics, foreign policy and issues of regionalism with Mr Vinod Rai, Distinguished Visiting Research Fellow, ISAS and former Comptroller and Auditor General of India.
    Audio:
    Date: 25 January 2022
    Title: Episode 125: South Asia Outlook 2022 – Bangladesh
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Masudur Rahman
    Designation: Visiting Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: Bangladesh's growth story has been quite remarkable, and its regional presence has been steadily growing in recent years. However, the country faces some challenges in ensuring economic growth as well as foreign policy tensions due to major power competition in the subcontinent. In this episode, Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS speaks to Dr Masudur Rahman, Visiting Research Fellow, ISAS on political and economic developments and challenges for Bangladesh in 2022.
    Audio:
    Date: 21 January 2022
    Title: Episode 124: South Asia Outlook 2022 – Nepal
    Guest Speaker/s: Amish Raj Mulmi
    Designation: Nepal Analyst
    Abstract: Over the past few years, Nepal has seen major convulsions in its domestic politics as well as an intensification of tensions with its neighbours, especially India. However, the country is in a very unique position in South Asia's emerging geostrategic theatre, especially due to the attention it has been receiving from major powers in the region and beyond. To discuss what the year 2022 potentially entails for the Himalayan nation's politics and geopolitics, John Vater, Research Associate, ISAS spoke to Amish Raj Mulmi, a Nepal analyst and the author of the book, All Roads Lead North: Nepal's Turn to China.
    Audio:
    Date: 18 January 2022
    Title: Episode 123: China’s Indian Ocean Ambition
    Guest Speaker/s: Professor C Raja Mohan and Dr Chulanee Attanayake
    Abstract: In the first week of January, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited to Sri Lanka and the Maldives - two Indian Ocean countries where it is looking to strengthen its influence. This visit is important for these island states not only in the current geopolitical and economic context but also historically as they both celebrate landmark years in their bilateral ties with China. Professor C Raja Mohan, Visiting Research Professor at ISAS and Dr Chulanee Attanayake, Research Fellow at the same institute, share many insights into the current state of relationship between these countries and how India could navigate the China challenge.
    Audio:
    Date: 14 January 2022
    Title: Episode 122: South Asia Outlook 2022 – Pakistan
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Danish Khan
    Designation: Assistant Professor
    Franklin & Marshall College, USA
    Abstract: After performing well in the early part of 2021, Pakistan's economy has now taken a sharp turn with high inflation, wide trade deficit and larget debt. It's cabinet has also approved a supplementary budget seeking to withdraw tax exemptions and introducing other revenue generating measures in order to access the US$6 billion (S$8.12 billion) loan from the International Monetary Fund. It has also collaborated with China on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, a project that is aimed at boosting the country's economy. To get greater insights into these developments, Ms Nithya Subramanian, Editor at ISAS, spoke to Dr Danish Khan is Assistant Professor of Economics and co-Director of the ‘Inequality, Poverty, Power & Social Justice’ Initiative at Franklin & Marshall College, USA.
    Audio:
    Date: 11 January 2022
    Title: Episode 121: South Asia Outlook 2022 – Sri Lanka
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Chulanee Attanayake
    Designation: Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: In 2021, Sri Lanka faced several challenges like high inflation, slow GDP growth rate, high foreign debt and tensions in its foreign policy relations, which was further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. To discuss where Sri Lanka stands at the beginning of 2022 and the various challenges it faces, Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS spoke to Dr Chulanee Attanayake, Research Fellow, ISAS.
    Audio:
    Date: 07 January 2022
    Title: Episode 120: Spotlight On South Asia
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Iqbal Singh Sevea
    Designation: Director, ISAS
    Abstract: The South Asian subcontinent is poised to witness many changes and challenges in 2022, which includes various political developments and key elections, security challenges, growing focus on technology, climate change and sustainable development, amongst others. This January, Dr Iqbal Singh Sevea took over as the new Director of ISAS, bringing with him expertise in contemporary and modern South Asia, with focus on politics, social and political thought, and governance. He spoke to Nithya Subramanian, Editor, on his association with ISAS, as well as his vision and plans for the institute.
    Audio:
    Date: 04 January 2022
    Load more

    South Asia is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Podbean.
    For any podcast-related queries, please contact us at hkaur@nus.edu.sg