• NUS ISAS
    • Print

    A weekly podcast on key developments in South Asia.

    Title: Episode 224: Food Security – Opportunities, Challenges and Way Ahead for South Asia and Beyond
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Puspa Sharma
    Designation: Visiting Senior Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: Food insecurity has remained amongst the gravest concerns in the world wherein post-pandemic the global food insecurity rose to 11.9%, with instances of undernutrition, malnutrition remaining higher in certain parts of the world like Africa, South Asia etc. Although 2023 has witnessed certain incremental improvement and steps taken by the United Nations creating a roadmap for countries to ensure food security. However, recent COP 28 negotiations depict that there is a long way to go. In this episode of South Asia Chat, Ms. Devyani Chaturvedi, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Dr Puspa Sharma, Visiting Senior Research Fellow, ISAS, to discuss the state of food security in South Asia and the challenges and opportunities emerging from policy-actions around it.
    Audio:
    Date: 20 December 2023
    Title: Episode 223: Snapshot of Sri Lanka’s Foreign Relations in December 2023
    Guest Speaker/s: Mr A. L. A. Azeez
    Designation: Former Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations in Geneva and Vienna
    Abstract: Sri Lanka’s foreign relations are influenced significantly by attempts to recover from the national economic crisis in 2022. Its economic situation remains precarious, with a foreign reserve of US$3.6 billion reported in August this year and with foreign debt restructuring still in progress. In this episode of South Asia Chat, Mr A. L. A. Azeez, former Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations in Geneva and Vienna speaks to Dr Rajni Gamage, Postdoctoral Fellow, ISAS, on Sri Lanka's geopolitical engagement with regional and global powers, and in multilateral institutions and fora.
    Audio:
    Date: 12 December 2023
    Title: Episode 222: Road to 2024 General Elections
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Neelanjan Sircar
    Designation: Senior Research Fellow
    Centre for Policy Research, New Delhi
    Abstract: The Assembly election results in five Indian states, which were announced on 3 December 2023, had a few surprises. The set of elections was also the last before the 2024 general elections. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stormed back to power in Madhya Pradesh, where the election was expected to be close. In Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, the BJP defeated the incumbent Congress. In Rajasthan, where ruling parties are usually shown the door every election, the result was somewhat expected. However, in Chhattisgarh, where many had predicted that the Congress would retain power, the BJP won comfortably. The southern state of Telangana was the only bright spot for the Congress where it dislodged the Bharat Rashtra Samithi, which had been in power in the state for two successive terms. In this episode, Dr Ronojoy Sen, Senior Research Fellow, ISAS, discusses the individual state election results and their impact on the 2024 general elections with Dr Neelanjan Sircar, Senior Research Fellow, Centre for Policy Research, New Delhi.
    Audio:
    Date: 07 December 2023
    Title: Episode 221: Bangladesh’s Electoral Challenges
    Guest Speaker/s: Professor Sreeradha Datta
    Designation: Non-Resident Senior Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: In this episode of South Asia Chat, Professor Sreeradha Datta, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, ISAS, speaks to Dr Imran Ahmed, Research Fellow, ISAS, on the intricate terrain of Bangladesh’s political scene. They examine historical milestones, electoral intricacies, and the geopolitical dynamics influencing Bangladesh’s future. Join us as they unravel the complexities that define the political landscape of this vibrant South Asian nation.
    Audio:
    Date: 05 December 2023
    Title: Episode 220: Analysing the Expectations for COP28
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Aisha Al-Sarihi
    Designation: Research Fellow
    Middle East Institute, NUS
    Abstract: The 2023 COP28 in the UAE, Dubai, from 30 November to 12 December 2023 comes at a critical time to assess the progress that has been made towards building a more sustainable future. Delegates from nearly 200 countries will engage in critical conversations on funding and financing for climate action, the global stocktake exercise, energy transitions and making climate policies inclusive. To discuss the COP28 and the expected negotiations, Mr Saeeduddin Faridi, Research Analyst, ISAS is in conversation with Dr Aisha Al-Sarihi, Research Fellow, Middle East Institute, National University of Singapore.
    Audio:
    Date: 28 November 2023
    Title: Episode 219: US Investment in Adani Port Project in Sri Lanka
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Subhomoy Bhattacharjee
    Designation: Coordinator for Centre for Maritime Economy and Connectivity
    Abstract: Recently, the United States (US) International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) announced its investment of US$553 million in the Adani Port Project (Sri Lanka). This comes as a surprise to many, given that it is a rarity for a US government agency to be making such investments. In this episode of South Asia Chat, Ms Devyani Chaturvedi, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Dr Subhomoy Bhattacharjee, Coordinator for Centre for Maritime Economy and Connectivity, Policy Advisory Arm for Ministry of Shipping, Government of India, to discuss the rapidly growing US interests in South Asia and the Indian Ocean mean for India and South Asia.
    Audio:
    Date: 20 November 2023
    Title: Episode 218: India’s Climate Diplomacy
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Karthik Nachiappan and Dr Constantino Xavier
    Abstract: Climate action is inextricably linked with international cooperation and India has been an active player in this domain. However, navigating this landscape is increasingly complex with rising geopolitical tensions, the proliferation of international forums and the Global North - Global South divide. This episode of South Asia Chat looks at India’s climate diplomacy, maps its journey in this domain and reflects on the strategic debates on furthering climate action. To discuss this, Mr Saeeduddin Faridi, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Dr Karthik Nachiappan, Research Fellow, Institute of South Asian Studies, National University of Singapore and Dr Constantino Xavier, Fellow, Foreign Policy and Security Studies, Centre for Social and Economic Progress. Dr Nachiappan and Dr Xavier are also co-editors of a recently published report titled Tracks to Transition: India’s Global Climate Strategy.
    Audio:
    Date: 08 November 2023
    Title: Episode 217: India’s Approach to the Israel-Palestine Conflict
    Guest Speaker/s: Professor C Raja Mohan
    Designation: Visiting Research Professor, ISAS
    Abstract: Despite traditional fault lines between Israel and the Arab nations, India has obtained a fine balance in the Middle East. However, the recent Israel-Palestine crisis challenges India's partnerships in the Middle East. In this episode of South Asia Chat, Ms Devyani Chaturvedi, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Professor C Raja Mohan, Visiting Research Professor at ISAS, to discuss the challenges India's ties face in the Middle East, the possibility of peace in the Middle East and India's future role in the region.
    Audio:
    Date: 01 November 2023
    Title: Episode 216: Sri Lanka’s State of Democracy and Governance Challenges in 2023
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Nishan De Mel
    Designation: Executive Director, Verite Research
    Abstract: In this episode of South Asia Chat, Dr Rajni Gamage, ISAS, chats with Dr Nishan De Mel, Executive Director, Verite Research, on the key dynamics of Sri Lanka’s ‘crisis recovery’ since the 2022 national economic crisis. This includes identifying key governance-related challenges faced by the Sri Lankan government in carrying out political and economic reforms, the state of the government's political legitimacy and its impact on the country's democracy, and what measures the government is pursuing to cushion the impact of the crisis on the affected communities in Sri Lanka.
    Audio:
    Date: 26 October 2023
    Title: Episode 215: Maldives Presidential Election Results
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Rasheeda Didi
    Designation: Member
    Maldives Higher Education Council
    Abstract: Maldives’ incumbent leader Mohamed Solih has conceded defeat, paving way for Mohamed Muizzu to take over the presidency in the island nation. Mohamed Muizzu won 54 percent of the votes in an election campaign that ran on issues like corruption, sovereignty and the India-China balance. In this episode, Mr Saeeduddin Faridi, Research Analyst, ISAS discusses the election and its consequences with Dr Rasheeda Didi, Senior Research Fellow for South Asia Focus Network, Maldives and Member of the Higher Education Council of Maldives.
    Audio:
    Date: 19 October 2023
    Title: Episode 214: Women’s Reservation in India
    Guest Speaker/s: Professor Krishna Menon
    Designation: Professor of Gender Studies
    Dr B R Ambedkar University Delhi
    Abstract: The Indian Parliament, during a special session from 18 to 22 September 2023, passed the 128th Constitutional Amendment Bill 2023 to mandate one-third reservation for women in India’s lower house of parliament as well as state assemblies. The bill, which was cleared with near unanimity, also extends the quota to the seats reserved for the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Professor Krishna Menon, Professor of Gender Studies in the School of Human Studies at Dr B R Ambedkar University Delhi. They discuss the content, journey of the bill and broader implications of women's reservation in India.
    Audio:
    Date: 11 October 2023
    Title: Episode 213: Future of Green Hydrogen in India
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Guncha Munjal and Mr Anuraag Nallapaneni
    Abstract: Green hydrogen is likely to play an important role in the global efforts against climate change. It is also an important element in India’s ambitious plans such as the goal to be energy independent by 2047 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2070. For that, India has launched several projects and policy measures to push the production of green hydrogen in the country as it aims to become a global hub of green hydrogen production. In this episode, Mr Saeeduddin Faridi, Research Analyst, ISAS is in conversation with Dr Guncha Munjal, Program Manager – Hydrogen, WRI India and Mr Anuraag Nallapaneni, Senior Program Associate – Hydrogen, WRI India. They discuss the current and future trajectory of green hydrogen in India.
    Audio:
    Date: 03 October 2023
    Title: Episode 212: Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Amitendu Palit
    Designation: Senior Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism or CBAM has emerged as the latest development within the intersection of environmental sustainability and trade. Its phased implementation will begin on 1st October 2023. CBAM is geared at preventing carbon leakage and encouraging decarbonisation in sectors including electricity, cement, iron and steel, fertiliser, aluminium, and hydrogen. This policy will have important implications for India and other developing countries. In this episode Mr Saeeduddin Faridi, Research Analyst, ISAS is in conversation with Dr Amitendu Palit, Senior Fellow and Research Lead (Trade and Economics), ISAS to delve into this policy and its implications for India and global trade.
    Audio:
    Date: 26 September 2023
    Title: Episode 211: India’s G20 – Outcomes and Way Forward
    Guest Speaker/s: Assoc Prof Iqbal Singh Sevea, Mr Vinod Rai and Dr Amitendu Palit
    Abstract: India's G20 Summit brought to the forefront a new global governance agenda. In this episode, Ms Devyani Chaturvedi, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Associate Professor Iqbal Singh Sevea, Director, ISAS, Mr Vinod Rai, Distinguished Visiting Research Fellow, ISAS, and Dr Amitendu Palit, Senior Research Fellow and Research Lead (Trade and Economics), ISAS, to discuss significant outcomes of the G20 summit and the future of its agenda.
    Audio:
    Date: 22 September 2023
    Title: Episode 210: India Post G20 Summit – Strategic Opportunities and Challenges
    Guest Speaker/s: Professor C Raja Mohan
    Designation: Visiting Research Professor, ISAS
    Abstract: The G20 summit held under India's presidency in New Delhi, on 9 and 10 September 2023, brought with it significant geopolitical changes and new opportunities for Indian foreign policy. In this episode, Ms Devyani Chaturvedi, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Professor C Raja Mohan, Visiting Research Professor, ISAS. They discuss what the G20 summit has meant for India's relations with the world, especially Europe, Middle-East and the United States, and Delhi's influence in the Global South. They also reflect on India's historical journey and the evolution of its position in the world order.
    Audio:
    Date: 13 September 2023
    Title: Episode 209: BRICS Summit 2023
    Guest Speaker/s: Professor C Raja Mohan
    Designation: Visiting Research Professor, ISAS
    Abstract: The 15th BRICS Summit was held in Johannesburg, South Africa from 22-24 August 2023 where a major announcement was made regarding an expansion in the grouping’s membership. The current BRICS members include Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa while the new entrants who will become full members from 1 January 2024 are Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, discusses the economic and strategic potential of the BRICS with Professor C Raja Mohan, Visiting Research Professor, ISAS.
    Audio:
    Date: 05 September 2023
    Title: Episode 208: Maldives Presidential Elections 2023
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Rasheeda Didi
    Designation: Member
    Maldives Higher Education Council
    Abstract: The Maldives is preparing for its upcoming Presidential elections on 9 September 2023, a significant event that will shape the country's leadership going forward. This election stands out due to the unusually large number of candidates participating, the highest since the 2008 Maldivian Presidential Election. In this episode of South Asia Chat, Dr Rasheeda Didi discusses potential election results, the challenges the current President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih faces, and the implications for the Maldives' relations with other countries. She is in conversation with Ms Wini Fred Gurung, Research Analyst, ISAS.
    Audio:
    Date: 29 August 2023
    Title: Episode 207: Two Years of Taliban Rule in Afghanistan
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Haroun Rahimi
    Designation: Assistant Professor of Law
    American University of Afghanistan
    Abstract: It has now been two years since Taliban took over control in Afghanistan, following the US withdrawal and the fall of the Afghan government. Afghanistan has since seen significant changes in most aspects of social, political and economic life. In this episode, Dr Imran Ahmed, Research Fellow, ISAS is in conversation with Dr Haroun Rahimi, Assistant Professor of Law, American University of Afghanistan. They discuss how Taliban came to power, how Afghanistan has evolved in the last two years, and how Afghanistan features in the global security landscape.
    Audio:
    Date: 22 August 2023
    Title: Episode 206: Climate Resilience in Indian Cities
    Guest Speaker/s: Ms Anumita Rouchowdhury
    Designation: Executive Director of Research and Advocacy
    Centre for Science and Environment
    Abstract: Globally, cities contribute to over 70 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, cities are also very prone to the effects of climate change and the extreme weather events emanating from it. This makes climate resilience and environmental sustainability a foremost issue in urban policy. In this role, cities emerge as spaces of innovation, and across the world we are witnessing newer ideas, policies, technologies and systems being deployed. To discuss these themes in the Indian context, Mr Saeeduddin Faridi, Research Analyst, ISAS is in conversation with Ms Anumita Rouchowdhury, Executive Director of Research and Advocacy, Centre for Science and Environment.
    Audio:
    Date: 15 August 2023
    Title: Episode 205: Sri Lanka in 2023 – Economic, Political, and Foreign Policy Developments
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Tilak Abeysinghe
    Designation: Adjunct Senior Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: Sri Lanka faced an unprecedented economic crisis in 2022, which culminated in the country declaring bankruptcy and long power cuts and fuel shortages. These led to mass street protests and the incumbent president, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, being ousted from power. To discuss the 2023 economic and political situation in Sri Lanka, Dr Rajni Gamage, Postdoctoral Fellow, ISAS, is in conversation with Dr Tilak Abeysinghe, Adjunct Senior Research Fellow, ISAS. The podcast also discusses visits by the Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe to India, Singapore, and Japan, and what future trends can be expected with elections scheduled for 2024.
    Audio:
    Date: 08 August 2023
    Title: Episode 204: Data Protection in India – Cybersecurity Implications
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Anuradha Rao
    Designation: Non-Resident Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: Nearly six years after the Indian Supreme Court declared that privacy was a constitutional right for all citizens, the government is now close to passing the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill (2022). The bill was cleared by the Indian Cabinet on 5 July 2023 and will be tabled in the parliament during the ongoing monsoon session. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, discusses data issues and cybersecurity in India with Dr Anuradha Rao, Founder, CyberCognizanz, Singapore. Dr Rao is also Non-Resident Fellow, ISAS and Associate Faculty, Singapore University of Social Sciences.
    Audio:
    Date: 01 August 2023
    Title: Episode 203: Feminist and Colonial Discourses in India
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Suruchi Thapar-Bjorkert
    Designation: Associate Professor
    University of Uppsala
    Abstract: Feminist and Colonial discourses are key in understanding India’s socio-political landscape. Studying the contemporary operationalisation of these discourses draws from historical contexts, personal experiences and comparative analysis. To discuss these factors on this episode, Mr Saeeduddin Faridi, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Dr Suruchi Thapar-Bjorkert, Associate Professor, Department of Government, University of Uppsala. They discuss feminism and colonial thought and how they operate in politics and policy in India.
    Audio:
    Date: 26 July 2023
    Title: Episode 202: Modi’s Visit to France – 25 Years of Strategic Partnership
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Jean-Loup Samaan
    Designation: Senior Fellow
    Middle East Institute, NUS
    Abstract: Prime Minister Modi’s visit to France celebrated 25 years of strategic partnership between India and France. This occasion was marked by the release of a roadmap – Horizon Communique 2047- which emphasised on the key areas of cooperation between the two states. Partnership in Security for Sovereignty, Protection of Planet and People-to-People Connect were critical themes under discussion during the bilateral talks. In this episode of South Asia Chat, Ms Devyani Chaturvedi, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Dr Jean-Loup Samaan, Senior Fellow at Middle East Institute, National University of Singapore to discuss India and France’s multidimensional partnership, and what the recent bilateral talks and roadmap of future relations mean for the two countries and geopolitics in Europe and Indo-Pacific.
    Audio:
    Date: 18 July 2023
    Title: Episode 201: SCO Summit 2023
    Guest Speaker/s: Mr Nandan Unnikrishnan
    Designation: Distinguished Fellow
    Observer Research Foundation
    Abstract: In July 2023, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted the summit meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), for which India holds the rotating presidency this year. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Mr Nandan Unnikrishnan, Distinguished Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, New Delhi, India. They discuss issues pertaining to the SCO and the Quad, the composition of the SCO, Russia-China relations and India's strategic identity.
    Audio:
    Date: 12 July 2023
    Title: Episode 200: Modi’s Visit to the US
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Yogesh Joshi
    Designation: Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: In June 2023, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an official state visit to Washington, marking the third official to be hosted by United States (US) President Joe Biden during his term. The visit has been hailed as a demonstration by both sides to take their bilateral cooperation to the next level. While there have been significant developments over the past years, a number of challenges remain. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, discusses Modi's recent visit and its implications on India-US ties with Dr Yogesh Joshi, Research Fellow at ISAS.
    Audio:
    Date: 05 July 2023
    Title: Episode 199: IPEF: Turning a New Corner – Thai and Regional Perspective
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Kaewkamol Pitakdumrongkit and Ms Priyanka Kishore
    Abstract: The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), a group of 14 countries led by the United States, was launched in May last year. As a non-traditional economic arrangement that does not offer market access concessions and tariff liberalisation to its members, the IPEF presents a blueprint for a new but untested kind of economic engagement in the region. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Dr Kaewkamol "Karen" Pitakdumrongkit, Assistant Professor and Head of the Centre for Multilateralism Studies, S Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, and Ms Priyanka Kishore, Economic and Forum Director, IMA Asia, Singapore. They discuss the decisions delivered by the IPEF till now and examine the prospects of its further progress.
    Audio:
    Date: 27 June 2023
    Title: Episode 198: IPEF: Turning a New Corner – an Indian Perspective
    Guest Speaker/s: R V Anuradha
    Designation: Partner, Clarus Law Associates
    Abstract: The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), a group of 14 countries led by the United States, was launched in May last year. As a non-traditional economic arrangement that does not offer market access concessions and tariff liberalisation to members, the IPEF presents a blueprint for a new but untested kind of economic engagement in the region. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Ms R V Anuradha, Partner, Clarus Law Associates. They discuss the decisions delivered by the IPEF till now and examine the prospects of its further progress.
    Audio:
    Date: 20 June 2023
    Title: Episode 197: IPEF: Turning a New Corner – an Australian Perspective
    Guest Speaker/s: Professor Peter Draper
    Designation: Professor and Executive Director
    University of Adelaide
    Abstract: The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), a group of 14 countries led by the United States, was launched in May last year. As a non-traditional economic arrangement that does not offer market access concessions and tariff liberalisation to members, the IPEF presents a blueprint for a new but untested kind of economic engagement in the region. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Professor Peter Draper, Professor and Executive Director, Institute for International Trade, School of Economics and Public Policy, University of Adelaide, Australia. They discuss the decisions delivered by the IPEF till now and examine the prospects of its further progress.
    Audio:
    Date: 14 June 2023
    Title: Episode 196: India-Nepal Bilateral Relationship
    Guest Speaker/s: Mr Amish Mulmi
    Designation: Author, All Roads Lead North
    Abstract: Nepal’s Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal’s visit to India between 31 May and 3 June 2023 marked his first foreign visit since he took office in December last year. During the visit, India and Nepal announced several projects on trade and energy. The Prime Ministers expressed their desire to take the partnership between the two countries to “Himalayan heights”. The unique relationship shared by India and Nepal has seen its share of highs and lows and this visit is being hailed as a success for the bilateral relationship. In this episode, Mr Saeeduddin Faridi, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Mr Amish Mulmi, Author, All Roads Lead North. They discuss the outcomes of the visit in the context of broader India-Nepal relations.
    Audio:
    Date: 06 June 2023
    Title: Episode 195: ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Rajeshwari Pillai Rajagopalan
    Designation: Director of the Centre for Security, Strategy and Technology, ORF
    Abstract: The inaugural ASEAN-India maritime exercise (AIME) took place at Changi naval base in Singapore from 2 to 8 May 2023. This exercise holds immense importance for the region and signifies a turning point in the relationship between India and ASEAN. While India has previously engaged in bilateral exercises with individual ASEAN member states and even conducted a trilateral exercise with Singapore and Thailand, this is the first joint exercise between India and ASEAN as a collective entity. In this episode, Shavinyaa Vijaykumarr, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Dr Rajeshwari Pillai Rajagopalan, Director of the Centre for Security, Strategy and Technology, ORF, to discuss the implications of the ASEAN-India maritime exercise and delve into the evolving landscape of this vital regional partnership.
    Audio:
    Date: 01 June 2023
    Title: Episode 194: India-EU FTA – Issues and Implications
    Guest Speaker/s: Ms Pallavi Bajaj
    Designation: International Trade Policy Advisor and Partner, TCube Consulting
    Abstract: The European Union (EU) and India are currently negotiating a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to strengthen their economic and strategic partnership. After the failure of talks in 2013, both sides resumed negotiations in 2022 for an agreement on trade, investment protection and Geographical Indication (GI). In the run-up to the fifth round of negotiations between the two sides, this episode looks at the background, issues and implications of the India-EU FTA. Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Ms Pallavi Bajaj, International Trade Policy Advisor and Partner at TCube Consulting, India.
    Audio:
    Date: 23 May 2023
    Title: Episode 193: Decoding the Karnataka Verdict
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Chandan Gowda
    Designation: Professor, Institute for Social and Economic Change
    Abstract: On 13 May 2023, the results of the Karnataka state elections were announced. The Congress party won a comfortable majority with 135 seats while the incumbent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won only 66 seats and the Janata Dal (Secular) party was reduced to 19 seats. The Congress party not only won a clear mandate but also increased its vote share to 43 per cent. In this episode, Dr Ronojoy Sen, Senior Research Fellow and Research Lead (Politics and Governance), ISAS discusses the election results and the implications with Dr Chandan Gowda, Ramakrishna Hegde Chair Professor of Decentralization and Development, Institute for Social and Economic Change, Bengaluru.
    Audio:
    Date: 17 May 2023
    Title: Episode 192: India’s SCO Presidency
    Guest Speaker/s: Ambassador Nirupama Rao
    Designation: Former Foreign Secretary of India
    Abstract: The recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) foreign minister’s meeting in May 2023 seems to have complicated the aims of the SCO and interests of the individual countries that are part of it. While it has shed light on new areas of cooperation among its members – ranging from defence cooperation to economic and cultural cooperation, it has also shown the deeply fragmented relations amongst its member countries. In this episode of South Asia Chat, Ms. Devyani Chaturvedi, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Ambassador Nirupama Rao, former Foreign Secretary of India, to discuss what the SCO’s presidency holds for India, its bilateral relations with the region and most importantly, the future of the intergovernmental forum itself.
    Audio:
    Date: 09 May 2023
    Title: Episode 191: Indian Foreign Policy amidst India’s G20 and SCO Presidency
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Happymon Jacob
    Designation: Visiting Senior Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: 2023 will go-down as one of the most action-packed years for India, as it assumes the presidency of not one but two inter-governmental forum, the G20 or group of 20 economies and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. Both the presidencies would require India to do heavy-lifting on significant geo-political issues such as the Ukraine-Russia Conflict, US-China competition, post-conflict stabilisation in Afghanistan, and severe energy and food security crisis; however, the true challenge for India would be to bring all stakeholders on one table. In this episode of South Asia Chat, Ms. Devyani Chaturvedi, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Dr Happymon Jacob, Visiting Senior Research Fellow at ISAS to discuss what the Indian presidency means for the international order, the Global South and most importantly, India’s foreign policy.
    Audio:
    Date: 02 May 2023
    Title: Episode 190: South Asia Geoeconomics
    Guest Speaker/s: Professor C Raja Mohan
    Designation: Visiting Research Professor, ISAS
    Abstract: The recent Indo-Japanese initiatives in South Asia, including the initiative to promote sub-regional connectivity with Bangladesh and the joint effort by Delhi and Tokyo to support Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring, marks a major structural change unfolding in the subcontinent. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS is in conversation with Professor C Raja Mohan, Visiting Research Professor, ISAS. They discuss India's recalibration in its regional policies, China's role in South Asia, the implications of the Russia-Ukraine war on the subcontinent, the increasing importance of the Indo-Pacific Region, and the benefits of rising regional competition for small countries.
    Audio:
    Date: 28 April 2023
    Title: Episode 189: Indian Foreign Trade Policy 2023
    Guest Speaker/s: Ms R V Anuradha
    Designation: Partner
    Clarus Law Associates, New Delhi
    Abstract: On 31 March 2023, Indian Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal announced the country’s latest Foreign Trade Policy (FTP 2023). This policy replaces the previous FTP (2015-2020), which was extended several times due to the pandemic and geopolitical developments. In the episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, discusses the new policy and its implications with Ms R V Anuradha, Partner, Clarus Law Associates, New Delhi. They cover the key features of the FTP, its new aspects as well as the implications on India's overall economic outlook.
    Audio:
    Date: 18 April 2023
    Title: Episode 188: Examining a Decade of the BRI and CPEC
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Ammar Malik
    Designation: Senior Research Scientist, AidData
    Abstract: Since President Xi launched the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in September 2013, the global infrastructure development strategy has been a focus of many contemporary studies on China. Many academics and professionals have investigated several issues surrounding the sources of funding, project viability, accusations of tricking countries into ‘debt traps’ and implications of elite capture under the BRI. Despite the occasional criticisms, the BRI remains attractive to many countries in need of infrastructure development and investment. As of January 2023, 151 countries have signed up. In this podcast episode, Claudia Chia, Research Analyst, ISAS, discusses with Dr Ammar Malik, Senior Research Scientist, AidData, the evolution of BRI over the last 10 years and the challenges it faces in Pakistan.
    Audio:
    Date: 11 April 2023
    Title: Episode 187: Political and Economic Crisis in Pakistan
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Imran Ahmed
    Designation: Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: Pakistan is in the midst of major instability and polarisation in the political and economic spheres. Former Prime minister, Imran Khan, is leading a popular opposition movement across Pakistan. This contention and conflict continues in courts and on the streets. Simultaneously, the economic situation in the country has been on the brink of default. Foreign reserves dropped to dangerously low levels, an energy crisis ensued, and Pakistan was back in conversation with foreign lenders for bailouts. In this episode, Mr Saeeduddin Faridi, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Dr Imran Ahmed, Research Fellow, ISAS. They discuss the structural aspects of the Pakistan polity that have led to the emergence of today’s situation.
    Audio:
    Date: 04 April 2023
    Title: Episode 186: The IPEF Negotiations
    Guest Speaker/s: Mr Bipul Chattopadhyay
    Designation: Executive Director
    Consumer Unity and Trust Society
    Abstract: The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) is an economic initiative launched by United States President Joe Biden in May 2022. Comprising 14 member countries, the framework is considered to have formidable potential to further regional economic integration. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Mr Bipul Chattopadhyay, Executive Director, Consumer Unity and Trust Society (CUTS International). They discuss the four pillars of the IPEF, India's negotiating objectives, the response of the business communities and the likely next steps in the negotiation rounds.
    Audio:
    Date: 28 March 2023
    Title: Episode 185: Connectivity and Cooperation in the Bay of Bengal Region
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Constantino Xavier and Dr Amitendu Palit
    Abstract: The Bay of Bengal region is marked by abysmal levels of connectivity, missed economic opportunities, and rising security risks. In February 2023, the Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP), New Delhi, released a report titled, ‘Connectivity and Cooperation in the Bay of Bengal Region’, which addresses nine areas of growing interdependence and proposes solutions to reduce the connectivity-cooperation gap. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with the editors of the report - Dr Constantino Xavier, Fellow, Foreign Policy and Security Studies, CSEP, and Non-resident Fellow, Brookings Institution; and Dr Amitendu Palit, Senior Research Fellow and Research Lead (Trade and Economics), ISAS.
    Audio:
    Date: 21 March 2023
    Title: Episode 184: State Elections 2023 – BJP and Northeast India
    Guest Speaker/s: Professor Kham Khan Suan Hausing
    Designation: Head of the Department of Political Science
    University of Hyderabad
    Abstract: Three Northeast states of India –Nagaland, Tripura and Meghalaya – went to polls in February 2023. In Tripura, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its regional ally, the Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura, won 33 seats. In Nagaland, the BJP and its ally, the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party, secured 37 seats. In Meghalaya, the BJP has formed a coalition government with the ruling National People's Party. In this episode of South Asia Chat, Ms Wini Fred Gurung, Research Analyst at ISAS, interviews Professor Kham Khan Suan Hausing, Professor and Head of the Department of Political Science at the University of Hyderabad, India. They discuss the electoral success of the BJP and the position of opposition parties in these states.
    Audio:
    Date: 14 March 2023
    Title: Episode 183: Critical Minerals in India
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Rajesh Chadha
    Designation: Senior Fellow
    Centre for Social and Economic Progress
    Abstract: With the world’s energy system transitioning from a fuel-intensive to a mineral-intensive one, countries across the world are racing to access critical minerals like cobalt, lithium and rare earths. As a result, exploration for these minerals has grown in manifolds. Their use in manufacturing green technologies, in semiconductors and in defence and telecommunication equipment explain their appeal. India’s recent findings of inferred lithium reserves in Jammu and Kashmir, India, raise India’s potential in critical minerals. In this episode of South Asia Chat, Ms Devyani Chaturvedi, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Dr Rajesh Chadha, Senior Fellow at the Centre for Social and Economic Progress (CSEP), India. They discuss India’s critical mineral supply chain and its vulnerabilities and opportunities.
    Audio:
    Date: 07 March 2023
    Title: Episode 182: Air Pollution in North India
    Guest Speaker/s: Mr Siddharth Singh
    Designation: Author, The Great Smog of India
    Abstract: It is now widely known that parts of Northern India are amongst the most polluted in the world. As the winter months approach, the region extending from Punjab up till West Bengal experiences a rapid decline in air quality. This exposes people living in this densely populated region to deadly illnesses. In this episode, Mr Saeeduddin Faridi, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Mr Siddharth Singh, Author of the book 'The Great Smog of India'. They discuss the recurring issue of air pollution, its effects on large parts of Northern India and approaches to address it.
    Audio:
    Date: 28 February 2023
    Title: Episode 181: Sustainability Issues in the Himalayas
    Guest Speaker/s: Professor Mahendra P Lama
    Designation: Senior Professor
    Jawaharlal Nehru University
    Abstract: In recent years, the discussion on the political, economic, and environmental crisis in the Himalayan region has gained significant prominence. These crises have implications not only on the ecosystem of the region but also spillover effects on aspects like border and human security, among others. In this episode, Ms Wini Fred Gurung, Research Analyst, ISAS, interviews Professor Mahendra P Lama, Senior Professor in the School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi and Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of Sikkim. They discuss the challenges and opportunities of sustainability in the Himalayan region.
    Audio:
    Date: 21 February 2023
    Title: Episode 180: Green Hydrogen in India
    Guest Speaker/s: Mr Hemant Mallya
    Designation: Fellow, Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW)
    Abstract: There is optimism around green hydrogen globally given its potential in aiding the drive towards decarbonisation and at the same time helping developing countries like India become energy independent countries. In January 2023, the Indian government launched the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which outlines an action plan to create a green hydrogen ecosystem in the country. In this episode, Mr Saeeduddin Faridi, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Mr Hemant Mallya, Fellow, Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), New Delhi. They discuss the opportunities and challenges green hydrogen presents for India.
    Audio:
    Date: 14 February 2023
    Title: Episode 179: The Indian Budget 2023
    Guest Speaker/s: Mr Vinod Rai and Dr Amitendu Palit
    Abstract: On 1 February 2023, the Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Budget for Fiscal Year 2023-24. Presented as the first Amrit Kaal budget, it gains importance as it comes at a time when the world faces a gloomy economic prospect. It is also the last full budget of the current Modi administration before India heads to polls in 2024. To unpack the budget in detail, in this edition of South Asia Chat, Ms Divya Murali, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with two experts – Mr Vinod Rai, Distinguished Visiting Research Fellow, ISAS and Former Comptroller and Auditor General of India, and Dr Amitendu Palit, Senior Research Fellow and Research Lead (Trade and Economics), ISAS. They discuss announcements pertaining to direct taxes, indirect taxes, growth, and the political implications of the budget.
    Audio:
    Date: 08 February 2023
    Title: Episode 178: South Asia Geopolitical Outlook 2023
    Guest Speaker/s: Professor C Raja Mohan
    Designation: Visiting Research Professor, ISAS
    Abstract: The year 2023 presents several geopolitical opportunities and challenges for the South Asian subcontinent. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS interviews Professor C Raja Mohan, Visiting Research Professor, ISAS. They cover important foreign policy issues and considerations for South Asia, including the geopolitical impact of the Russia-Ukraine war, India-Pakistan relations, Sino-Indian ties, the role of the smaller South Asian nations, India's G20 presidency, and the growing interest of Western countries in the Indo-Pacific region.
    Audio:
    Date: 31 January 2023
    Title: Episode 177: South Asia Economic Outlook 2023
    Guest Speaker/s: Dr Amitendu Palit
    Designation: Senior Research Fellow, ISAS
    Abstract: In 2022, South Asia was impacted severely on account of global developments, such as the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions due to the Russia-Ukraine war, and an impending global recession. South Asian states also faced issues due to their internal economic and political crises. In this episode, Ms Ramita Iyer, Research Analyst, ISAS, is in conversation with Dr Amitendu Palit, Senior Research Fellow and Research Lead (Trade and Economics). They discuss the economic prospects and challenges for the subcontinent in 2023.
    Audio:
    Date: 25 January 2023
    Title: Episode 176: South Asia Outlook 2023
    Guest Speaker/s: Associate Professor Iqbal Singh Sevea
    Designation: Director, ISAS
    Abstract: In this episode, Associate Professor Iqbal Singh Sevea talks to Dr Imran Ahmed on the year that has passed and the enduring sources and causes of political and geopolitical tension and contestation in the region. Professor Sevea touches on the political economy driving social upheaval within South Asian states, major power competition between India and China and its impact on the region, upcoming elections as well as significant turning points and future challenges for the region including inflation and food and energy security.
    Audio:
    Date: 17 January 2023
    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