The People's Republic of China (PRC) has emerged as a dominant force in global technology development and acquisition, utilizing a variety of methods, both legal and illegal, to bolster its technological prowess and military strength. The PRC's aggressive pursuit of advanced technologies through international collaborations and investments raises concerns about the dual-use nature of these technologies and their impact on diplomatic relations.

To counter unauthorized technology transfer, nations have implemented regulatory frameworks like the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). However, the PRC's sophisticated evasion tactics, such as establishing front companies and exploiting regulatory ambiguities, undermine these controls. The LinkOcean Technologies case exemplifies how such tactics are used to circumvent export controls, highlighting vulnerabilities in regulatory frameworks.

The PRC's talent acquisition strategies, like the Thousand Talents Plan (TTP), attract overseas scholars to bolster domestic science and technology capabilities. However, controversies arise, particularly concerning military advancements and sensitive technologies. Talent recruitment intersects with emerging technology fields like artificial intelligence, posing legal risks and ethical questions.

Strengthening oversight and transparency in international research collaborations, along with enforcing export controls and disclosure requirements, is crucial. The international academic and research community must be vigilant in fostering innovation while preventing exploitation.

Intellectual Property (IP) Theft poses a significant threat to economic stability and innovation. Despite efforts to enforce IP laws, China's inadequate protection measures contribute to substantial economic losses globally. Addressing IP theft requires international cooperation to safeguard creative and innovative outputs essential for economic advancement.

In the realm of digital espionage, the PRC's cyber activities pose a direct threat to national security and international norms. Despite the economic toll estimated at billions of dollars annually, the full extent of military technology theft remains elusive. Future research must focus on the granular categorization of IP theft to tailor countermeasures and safeguard national security.

The rise in illicit technology acquisition by the PRC undermines international collaboration, economic stability, and security. Collaboration among countries like the US and India is crucial to combatting this threat and maintaining the integrity of the digital system.

Improving cyber defense techniques, promoting openness and cooperation in technical development, and investing in research and development are essential counter-strategies. Establishing global legal standards and enforcement systems, improving information sharing, and fostering innovation through international consortia can mitigate susceptibility to technology theft.

India's engagement with global powers to combat PRC's technology acquisition plans signifies a commitment to safeguarding the authenticity of the worldwide innovation environment. This joint effort protects economic interests and national security while fostering understanding and collaboration in a digital era characterized by equality and mutual respect.

Dr. Vishal Singh Bhadauriya and Dr. Kunwar Alkendra Pratap Singh are from the Plasma Astrophysics Research Laboratory, Department of Physics, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 

'Education is the cornerstone of progress and prosperity, the teachers deserve to be accorded the respect and remuneration commensurate with their important role'.

In the contemporary world education is the most important tool that can be used for achieving the full human potential and progress of a nation. The era of globalization has come up with new issues and challenges, especially for the developing nations. To educate the people for harmonious development, the private sector seems to be gaining more ground in the modern welfare state. To cope with the modern educational challenges and to address the growing demand for quality education, the state and governments in different parts of the world have accorded a lot of scope to the privatization of the education sector. In our scenario at the national or UT level, private education has seen a lot of growth during the last three decades.

With growing unemployment thousands of educated young boys and girls have become part of this private educational setup in the capacity of teachers and various non-teaching assignments. Ideally, it looks good with a growing literacy rate and people getting absorbed in the private sector but the reality is far from the perception.

Over the years with no policy in place, private school teachers face a dire plight as they struggle to make ends meet on meager wages due to the prevailing unemployment crisis. The confluence of unemployment and violations of their rights, including the flouting of minimum wage laws, has left these educators in a vulnerable position. They are forced to accept lower wages due to a lack of alternative employment options. This exploitation perpetuates a cycle of financial insecurity for these educators, impeding their ability to provide for themselves and their families adequately.

Furthermore, On many occasions private school owners in the region are in violation of the Minimum Wages Act, exacerbating the challenges faced by teachers. The failure to adhere to mandated minimum wage standards represents a fundamental breach of the rights of these educators. This flagrant disregard for labor laws has created an environment where the contributions of private school teachers are undervalued and their basic economic rights are systematically undermined.

The government of Jammu and Kashmir must address this pressing issue and take concrete steps to rectify the situation. A comprehensive policy framework specifically designed to protect the rights of private school teachers is urgently needed. This policy should encompass provisions to ensure that these educators receive fair and just compensation in line with the Minimum Wages Act. Additionally, measures should be put in place to hold private school owners accountable for adhering to these standards, with appropriate penalties for non-compliance.

In formulating this policy, the government must also consider the holistic well-being of private school teachers, acknowledging the profound impact of financial stability on their overall quality of life. Access to healthcare, housing, and other essential amenities should be included in the policy framework to ensure that these educators are not only compensated fairly but also supported in leading dignified and secure lives. Efforts should be made to create avenues for professional development and career advancement for private school teachers. By investing in their continued education and training, the government can empower these educators and provide them with opportunities for growth within the education sector. This not only benefits the teachers themselves but also enhances the quality of education imparted to students in private schools.

In addition to these proactive measures, the government should also establish channels for private school teachers to voice their grievances and seek recourse for any violations of their rights. This could take the form of an independent body or ombudsman tasked with addressing labor-related issues and ensuring that the concerns of private school teachers are heard and acted upon.

The government must engage in dialogue with private school owners to foster a mutual understanding of the challenges faced by teachers and the necessity of upholding their rights. Collaboration and cooperation between all stakeholders are vital to bring about meaningful and lasting change in the treatment of private school teachers in Jammu and Kashmir.

Beyond the immediate policy considerations, the broader societal attitude towards the value of education and the role of teachers must be transformed. Recognizing the indispensable contribution of educators to the fabric of society is essential in effecting long-term change. Education is the cornerstone of progress and prosperity, and the teachers who dedicate themselves to this noble cause deserve to be accorded the respect and remuneration commensurate with their important role.

The plight of private school teachers in Jammu and Kashmir demands urgent attention and the government has a responsibility to enact policies that safeguard their rights and well-being. By addressing the issue of unemployment, ensuring adherence to the Minimum Wages Act, and implementing a comprehensive policy framework, the government can signal its commitment to upholding the dignity and rights of private school teachers. It is imperative to recognize the invaluable contribution of these educators and take decisive action to improve their working conditions and quality of life. The time is ripe for the government of Jammu and Kashmir to stand in solidarity with private school teachers and demonstrate its unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the empowerment of all its citizens. Only through proactive and deliberate measures can we ensure a brighter and more equitable future for private school teachers in the region.

(The author is a writer, columnist, and Academician, and can be reached at Rayeesrocks20@gmail.com)

Analysis of household consumption surveys is integral for discerning the underpinnings of an economy—its trajectory, its resilience, and its demand potential. As consumption drives a substantial part of economic growth, these surveys unravel the narrative of an economy's strength and the well-being of its citizens. The latest household consumption survey 2022-23 by MOSPI, NSSO presents a striking development: a near doubling of consumption expenditure from 2011-12. This leap underscores inflationary trends and possibly reflects improved living standards and consumption capabilities of Indian households. Such consumption growth is a testament to an economy’s expanding potency, often heralding sustained developmental progress.

However, the widening rural-urban gap in consumption reveals underlying structural disparities. Rural India, with more frugal means, contrasts sharply with urban folks with louder consumption habits. This split is a salient reminder of the differing priorities and access to resources, which policy must aim to bridge. Inequalities in consumption weave through the societal fabric, with survey data illustrating disparities amongst social groups and regions. Steeper ascendancy in consumption in more affluent states stands juxtaposed to modest increments in lesser-developed regions, painting a tableau of uneven economic vibrancy across India's diverse landscape.   Medical expenses (hospitalization) have swelled, arguably accelerated by the pandemic, increased pollution, and a general rise in healthcare awareness. Further, it is alarming to observe that the share of medical expenses in rural household consumption has surpassed urban expenditure on the same over the previous decade. This trend signifies that healthcare needs, which are essential for the well-being and productivity of a population, are becoming increasingly burdensome. In rural areas, where incomes are typically lower and access to healthcare is more challenging, higher health expenses can lead to financial distress and divert resources from other critical areas such as education and nutrition. Further, this pattern of rising medical expenditures suggests systemic issues in the healthcare system, potentially including inadequate public health infrastructure, limited preventive care, and escalating costs of medical treatment. Such disparities necessitate a multi-faceted policy approach that addresses affordability, access, and quality of healthcare services.

Conversely, education expenditure has contracted. This intriguing trend may be argued from a range of possibilities: perhaps a disconnect between education and employment outcomes, the deteriorating perception of education quality, or the digital revolution's successful incursion in making learning more affordable.

Despite these creases, the survey brings to light India's formidable achievement in poverty reduction. A burgeoning middle class is expanding the bottom of the consumption pyramid, unveiling a market with enormous demand potential. The undercurrents suggest a resilient consumption base capable of fuelling India's growth engine, poised to provide a robust push to the nation's economic aspirations. Such promising horizons reaffirm a collective optimism in India's enduring ascent on the global stage.

Source: Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (2022-23), NSSO Survey, MOSPI, GOI

By: Dr. Sandhya Dubey Ph.D, National Institute of Educational Planning and Administration, New Delhi

On January 22, 2024, in the ancient city of Ayodhya, an unforgettable confluence of unity, reverence, devotion, and harmony was witnessed. People from every corner of the country, from diverse backgrounds and beliefs, gathered together to witness the Pran Pratishtha of Shri Ram Lalla in the grand Ram temple. The arrival of Shri Ram Lalla not only stirred a wave of enthusiasm throughout India but also spread a wave of renewed enthusiasm across the world.

This magnificent event, probably unprecedented in the history of India, showcased a unique blend of meticulous planning at the micro-level and grand inclusion at the macro-level. In Ayodhya, the echo of every Indian and ancient civilization, every sentiment, and every tradition found its reflection under the shelter of Lord Shri Ram. From the secluded islands of Lakshadweep and Andaman to the distant mountains of Ladakh, from the lush forests of Mizoram and Nagaland to the sands of the Rajasthan's deserts, all 28 states and 8 union territories of India witnessed this grand event, with all languages of India echoing the sentiment that 'Ram Sabke Hain.’

The process of inviting guests began in September 2023, starting from compiling the list of invitees to personally inviting them, and even reaching out to remote areas of the nation. Ultimately, each invitee was assigned a unique code. The program was entirely structured around religious, spiritual, and social themes. As a result, only the heads of national and state political parties and the CM of the host state were invited to the ceremony, Invitations were not extended to any central ministers or chief ministers. This was also a widely discussed topic among the invited distinguished guests on that day.

Representatives from various donor categories, ranging from those donating as little as 10 rupees to millions, were present at the event. A total of 131 prominent and 36 tribal representatives, representing different origins of the Indian ancient religious traditions, were present. This included representatives from all major traditions such as Akhadas, Kabir Panthi, Raidasi, Nirankari, Namdhari, Nihangs, Arya Samaj, Sindhi, Nimbark, Buddhists, Lingayats, Ramakrishna Mission, Satradhikar, Jains, Banjara community, Maitei, Chakma, Gorkha, Khasi, Ramnamis and others. Representatives from scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and nomadic tribes were also present. Different religions like Islam, Christianity, Zoroastrianism were also represented. Families of District Judge Sri Nayyar, who decided in favor of Ramlalla in 1949, and former Duty Constable Abdul Barkat, who testified, were also invited. The family who was fighting the case against Ramlalla was also invited along with families of former officials of Ayodhya. Families of leaders of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and lawyers who participated in the judicial process of Ram Janmabhoomi, including advocates, were also present at the event. Along with the Current President and Vice President of India, former Presidents and former Prime Ministers were also invited. The event also saw the participation of retired chiefs of all three armed forces who were vigilant in ensuring India's security, as well as recipients of the Param Vir Chakra. Scientists from ISRO who led India to the moon and scientists who developed the Indian COVID-19 vaccine were also present. Several former Chief Justices of the Supreme Court, retired judges, retired administrative and police officers along with Indian diplomats who worked in various countries were present, as were eminent lawyers, doctors, CAs, and directors/editors of newspapers and TV channels, as well as renowned social media influencers. Industrial families from large corporations were also present at the event, along with members of prominent Royal Families. Players who represented India in various sports, Artists from various fields such as painting, sculpture, music, literature, instrumental music, dance, etc., including those from Hindi, Kannada, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, Odia, Assamese, Bhojpuri, Punjabi, and Haryanvi film industries were also present. Representatives from 53 countries were also present at the event. There were 15 Yajmans in the main puja, representing all castes and classes (Sikhs, Jains, Neo-Buddhists, Nishad society, Valmiki society, tribal society, nomadic tribes, etc.) and individuals from all directions of India (North, South, East, West, Northeast) were represented. The event also saw the presence of farmers and laborers, as well as representatives of cooperative and consumer organizations, who contribute to the nourishment and development of the country. Officials, engineers, and workers from L&T and Tata Group were also present. Several workers from the RSS and Vishwa Hindu Parishad, including revered Sarsanghchalak of the RSS Hon'ble Sh. Mohan Bhagwat and Hon'ble Prime Ministers of India Sh. Narendra Modi, also graced the occasion. If Shri Ram Lalla was being Pratishthit, then surely all the gods and goddesses must have been present to bless the occasion.

At the behest of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, hundreds of Vishva Hindu Parishad workers were tirelessly engaged day and night, several workers from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and other local self-help organizations were also involved in the organization of this event. Their experience in management was subtly reflected in the arrangement of the event, which was being experienced by every devotee present there. Whether it was welcoming, arranging battery-operated vehicles, providing wheelchair facilities, or organizing entry processes, every aspect was meticulously planned. The leaders of the self-help organizations themselves were seen removing everyone's shoes and keeping them aside, even as they continued to serve during their return. Outside the makeshift toilets, arrangements for slippers were also made. Everything was prepared with careful consideration. The citizens and administration of Ayodhya, in coordination with the Trust, set out to beautify Ayodhya. It was a matter of curiosity for the common people of Ayodhya to see how the city transformed suddenly within four months. Cooperation between the Uttar Pradesh and Ayodhya police was commendable, and everyone was impressed with their cooperative behavior. As a result, such a grand event was completed with ease and success. Everyone felt blessed by Lord Shri Ram's presence.

In three days, without any political or corporate event, 71 private aircraft landed in Ayodhya. Arrangements for welcoming and transportation with Saffron Patkas were made at the airports of Lucknow and Ayodhya, as well as at railway stations in Lucknow, Ayodhya, Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Gonda, Sultanpur, Prayagraj, and others. Keeping in mind the needs of various attendees, accommodation arrangements were meticulously prepared for everyone. Tent cities, hotels, ashrams, dharamshalas, as well as arrangements for staying with 200 local families were made. The sound of the 'Ram Aayenge' song echoed throughout Ayodhya. Everyone enjoyed the cultural programs in Ayodhya's street till late night.

History bears witness that this was the only event where people of such stature sat on ordinary chairs for 4-5 hours. Former Prime Minister of India, Shri HD Devegowda, sat in a wheelchair for four hours. There were no assistants or security personnel with anyone. Prasad was distributed and served to everyone while they remained seated. In Ayodhya, Regardless of caste, class, or region, everyone was equal - everyone was in unity. Everyone rose above their commitments and socioeconomic status to accept Ayodhya's humble and heartfelt hospitality.

Every city and village in India was eager to welcome Lord Shri Ram. Every village, every neighborhood, and every temple had become Ayodhya. Those who couldn't make it to Ayodhya worshiped in local temples and celebrated by lighting lamps at night. Everyone's hearts and souls were in Ayodhya that day. The entire Ayodhya city and temple complex were decorated with tonnes of flowers to welcome Shri Ramlalla. More than 30 traditional musical instruments from all Indian states, played by various artists, made the atmosphere melodious with Ram bhajans. Thousands of brass bells resonated across the temple complex during the aarti. Along with Lord Ram's arrival, the helicopter showered flowers over the temple complex, making it feel as though the entire divine realm was showering flowers with joy. This event transcended mere celebration; it became a divine experience, a spiritual journey. People were emotional, some were dancing in trance, some experienced heaven, and some the Treta Yuga. Everyone was returning to Ayodhya with Lord Shri Ram. From 3 am the next day, devotees began lining up for the darshan of Shri Ramlalla. Nearly 5,00,000 people visited Shri Ramlalla with enthusiasm and discipline on January 23rd.

This divine event in Ayodhya surpassed the boundaries of cast, status, language, state-hood, or religious beliefs; embracing traditions while advancing progress, and awakening the collective consciousness of a nation. A testament to the eternal legacy of Lord Shri Ram, inspiring millions and uniting them; this event, as the 'Ramotsav' of unity, integrity, harmony, and devotion, will remain alive for ages to come. Remembering Lord Shri Ram, it is now time for all of us to be determined to establish India as a prosperous, affluent, healthy, capable, and respected nation, to establish India as the 'Vishwa Guru.'

Jai Shri Ram!

Ramlal: Sah-Sampark Pramukh, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh