The Reading Room
Seven Decades of Independent India: Ideas and Reflections
Vinod Rai
Published: 2022, Penguin Books India
Another General Election for the 1.3 billion people of India is about to conclude and at the time of writing, a third term for Modi and his BJP party is a racing certainty. Consequently for our Book Review this month I thought it would be a good time to reflect on India’s politics and its time since independence.
“Seven Decades of Independent India: Ideas and Reflections” is a compilation of essays edited by Vinod Rai and Amitendu Palit. These essays cover various subjects related to India’s achievements and challenges post-Independence and consists of 25 standalone chapters, each focusing on a specific topic. These topics range from “Security Challenges” and “India in a Globalised World” to “Skill Development.” Unfortunately, the chapters are not integrated or grouped together in a meaningful way but are more like reflections rather than a comprehensive assessment of India’s past record. Nonetheless they are interesting and worthy read.
The introductory chapter emphasises good governance and the need for an efficient civil administration. This is at the heart of Modi’s successful time in office and is the backbone to his mandate as India’s Prime Minister. While there are observations on issues like “waste management” and “pollution control,” the focus on bank management outweighs attention to other vital institutions like the judiciary or legislature. The book praises the Goods and Services Tax (GST) but lacks a critical evaluation of India’s overall achievements and failures.
Three essays discuss external affairs: One emphasises India’s engagement with neighbours in southern and Southeast Asia, advocating for a new approach to managing big power relations. Another focuses on India’s relations with the Association of Southeast Asia Nations (ASEAN), highlighting the need to translate policies into concrete actions and investments.
The chapter on “Sustainable, Productive Agriculture” by Ashok Gulati and Gayatri Mohan stands out. It offers original conclusions based on serious research. The authors argue that Punjab is not the most suitable state for rice cultivation, and Maharashtra is not ideal for sugarcane. Water availability and flows do not guarantee long-term sustainability. Crop diversification is necessary but challenging to implement.
The book provides diverse perspectives, but it lacks a cohesive narrative. It’s a worthwhile read for those curious about India’s multifaceted viewpoints, but it doesn’t offer a critical assessment. In summary, “Seven Decades of Independent India: Ideas and Reflections” offers insights into India’s journey post-Independence, but readers should approach it as a collection of reflections rather than a comprehensive analysis. If you’re interested in exploring different viewpoints on India’s progress, this book might be worth your time!
Robin Sellers
May 2024
The information contained above and in other entries in the Ocean Dial Book Review Series is intended for general information and entertainment purposes only, and should not be relied upon in making, or refraining from making, any investment decisions. No information provided herein should or can be taken to constitute any form of advice or recommendation as to the merits of any investment decision. You should take independent advice from a suitably qualified investment adviser before making any investment decisions.
Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of NIKE
Published: 2016, Simon & Schuster
Knight, the man behind the swoosh, tells his story. Candid, humble, wry and gutsy, he begins with his crossroads moment when at 24 he decided to start his own business. He details the many risks and daunting setbacks along with his early triumphs. Together with his partners and employees, they built a brand that changed everything.
Value Investing and Behavioral Finance: Insights into stock market realities
Published: 2017, McGraw Hill Education
Value Investing and Behavioural Finance comes as an antidote to investor anxiety and a guide to sane and safe investment decisions. Using investing trends in Indian capital markets over the last three decades, it shows how collective behavioural biases affect investment decisions, returns and market vagaries.
Amazon Unbound : Jeff Bezos and the Invention of a Global Empire
Published: 2022, Simon & Schuster UK Ltd
Brad Stone’s book “Amazon Unbound” is a well-researched exploration of Amazon and its founder, Jeff Bezos, from 2013 onward. Stone had access to current and former company insiders, allowing him to show how Amazon’s changes led to both innovations and ethical missteps.