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Check FAQAbout Rakesh
Rakesh Kalshian is an independent journalist based in New Delhi, India, with over two decades of experience in the field. His work critically examines the complex interplay between science, politics, nature, culture, and religion. Kalshian has covered a wide range of topics, including the socio-economic challenges facing India's youth, the ethical concerns surrounding Big Data and digital privacy, and the triumphs and tribulations of athletes like Santhi Soundarajan. His investigative pieces have shed light on the shady politics of climate change, the plight of workers at the world's largest ship-breaking yard in Gujarat, and the repression of indigenous people in India's extractive industries. Kalshian's journalism also critiques the neoliberal economic model, highlighting its impact on society and the environment. He has delved into the nexus between nation-states, corporations, and global institutions, including media, academia, and NGOs, particularly in the context of environmental geopolitics. His reviews of literary works, such as 'Alternative futures: India Unshackled', reflect his interest in urban development, environmental activism, and socio-economic reforms, as well as his engagement with utopian ideals and the potential of anthologies to inspire societal change. A recipient of prestigious fellowships, Kalshian was a British Chevening fellow at Westminster University in 1998 and a Nieman fellow at Harvard University in 1999-2000. He has been a member of the Washington DC-based International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) since 2001. Kalshian has also edited books on the seamy side of India's mining industry and the politics of energy in South Asia, further establishing his reputation as a journalist committed to uncovering the intricate and often obscured realities of the modern world.
Portfolio
The Precarious Generation
The article discusses the plight of the youth in India and around the world, facing high unemployment rates and an uncertain future. It cites the OECD's statistic that over 30% of India's youth are neither employed nor in education or training. The article critiques the Indian government's failure to create enough jobs and the poor state of higher education. It also touches on the global phenomenon of the 'youth bulge' and the potential risks it poses, such as social unrest and susceptibility to extremist ideologies. The author suggests that the neoliberal economic model is failing the youth and calls for a radical rethinking of economic and social policies to address the issues of precarity and disenfranchisement among the young population.
A new anthology touches upon most facets of Indian society
The article reviews the anthology 'Alternative futures: India Unshackled', edited by Ashish Kothari and K J Joy, which compiles various visions for India's future from different activists and thinkers. The book covers a wide range of topics, including urban development, environmental activism, and socio-economic issues, with a focus on justice and ecological integrity. The review discusses the protests against tree cutting in New Delhi, the symposium on the 'Political Economy of Redevelopment', and the ideas of Italian architect Paolo Soleri. It also highlights the diverse dreams for India's future, such as conservation efforts that integrate human and wildlife habitats, Adivasi rights, legal system reforms, and sustainable village communities. The review points out the absence of climate change and science in the book's discourse, and it reflects on the role of utopias in society, suggesting that while they may not offer a single solution, they can inspire change and action.
Santhi Soundarajan and the Flawed Science of Sex
The article recounts the performance of Santhi Soundarajan, an Indian middle-distance runner, at the 2006 Asiad in Doha. It describes her anticipation for the 800m race, her strategy during the race, and her final sprint to the finish line, which earned her a silver medal. The article vividly portrays her physical exhaustion after the race and the subsequent joy of winning a medal. It also mentions the celebration that followed, including media attention, a cash prize from the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, and job offers from public sector organisations.
Good or bad? When it comes to food, it’s not that simple
For decades, fat and cholesterol were considered harmful to health, leading to dietary guidelines that discouraged their consumption. However, recent research by US scientists has found no significant relationship between dietary cholesterol and blood cholesterol. This shift in understanding highlights the limitations of epidemiology, which can only show correlations, not causations. The new guidelines, based on randomized controlled trials, suggest that replacing fat with carbohydrates does not necessarily prevent heart disease. Despite these findings, the article advises a balanced approach to diet, emphasizing moderation.
All alien invasive species are guilty until proven innocent
The article discusses the controversial nature of invasive alien species, focusing on the vilayati kikar (Prosopis juliflora) in Delhi. Initially introduced by the British for its resilience, the plant has since been both praised for its utility and criticized for its ecological impact. The text explores the broader debate on whether alien species should be eradicated to restore native ecosystems or if they can play a beneficial role in the Anthropocene epoch. It highlights the shifting perspectives on ecological balance and the role of human intervention in shaping natural landscapes.
What India should look like in 2100
The article discusses the vision for India's future, focusing on urban development, environmental conservation, and social justice. It highlights the controversy over tree cutting in New Delhi for redevelopment, sparking debates on class, power, and sustainability. The article references the book 'Alternative futures: India Unshackled,' which imagines various utopian futures for India, emphasizing justice and ecological integrity. It explores different perspectives on ideal cities, conservation, Adivasi rights, legal systems, and social structures, advocating for a comprehensive transformation to achieve greater justice, equality, and sustainability.
Is brain science romanticised?
The article critiques the romanticized view of brain science, often referred to as the 'cerebral mystique,' which deifies the brain as the sole repository of intelligence and creativity. Alan Jasanoff's book 'The Biological Mind' challenges this notion, arguing that the brain is deeply interconnected with the body and environment. The article discusses the historical and cultural roots of this mystique and its implications for fields like criminal justice and mental health. Despite significant funding, projects like the European Union's Human Brain Project have failed to deliver on their ambitious promises, highlighting the pitfalls of this overly simplistic view of the brain.
Is it realistic to teach science in vernacular languages?
The article explores the debate on teaching science in vernacular languages in India, highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's advocacy for it and the challenges posed by the dominance of English. It discusses the historical context of English as the medium of instruction and the potential benefits and drawbacks of vernacular education. The article also examines global examples, such as Nigeria and South Africa, and suggests a bilingual approach as a possible solution, while questioning the political will to implement such changes.
A wake-up call to reclaim the forgotten darkness in our lives
The article discusses the growing issue of light pollution and its impact on the natural environment and human health. It highlights how artificial lighting, particularly in urban areas, is diminishing the visibility of the night sky and disrupting natural rhythms of life. The text references studies showing the adverse effects of light pollution on various species and human health, including potential links to insomnia and other health issues. It calls for a reconsideration of lighting practices, advocating for softer lighting solutions and reduced use of electronic devices before sleep to mitigate these effects.
Binary blunders
India's transgender community is protesting against the Union government's rejection of amendments to the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2016, which critics argue restricts the right to self-identify. The bill's definition of 'transgender' and the authority given to a District Screening Committee are points of contention. The article explores the complex interplay between sex and gender, highlighting scientific research that challenges traditional binaries and advocating for the abolition of gender as a concept. It also discusses the cultural and historical perspectives on gender and sex, emphasizing the need for societal acceptance and legal recognition of diverse gender identities.
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