Sonth EP10: Kashmiri Pandit Activism & Reconciliation ft. Sunil Raina, President Lava Mobiles

In this thought-provoking discussion, TNI Editor Aarti Tikoo and geopolitical analyst Gilles Boquerat delve deep into the evolving geostrategic landscape of India. They analyze the possibility of a two-front war with Pakistan and China, the shifting dynamics in India-China relations, and the role of major powers like the USA and France in the Indo-Pacific region. The conversation also touches upon the economic growth of India and its influence on foreign policy, the historical context of India's relations with China, and the significance of India's nuclear policy. They also discuss the Indo-Pacific security framework, the Indo-French strategic partnership, and the importance of the Indian diaspora in shaping global relations.

John Seaman specializes in the geopolitics and political economy of East Asia and on China’s relations with Europe and the United States. He also conducts research on China's industrial strategy and foreign policy, the geopolitics of the energy and digital transitions, and the political economy of critical raw materials. In this interview, TNI Editor Aarti Tikoo and John discuss the point of contention between US-Europe and China. He argues that China's 'distorting' economic policy especially in green energy sector has upset Europe. He further adds that Europe needs to think about its dependencies, and identify 'critical industries' to secure future.

Nominchimeg Odsuren serves as the legal policy advisor to the speaker of the Mongolian parliament. In this episode, EIC Aarti Tikoo engages in a conversation with Nominchimeg, exploring the unique aspects of a parliamentary form of government and the involvement of women in governmental affairs. #diplomacy #mongolia #narendramodi #india

A young Sunil Raina, fresh out of college, was divided between two choices in his life when the situation fell apart in the Kashmir valley. On one hand, he wished to pursue activism full-time as a member of the 'Panun Kashmir' organization, and on the other hand, burgeoning responsibilities asked of him to find a firm footing in his life, which was ruptured by the forced displacement perpetrated by Islamic extremists in the valley. Hailing from a remote village in Kashmir, Sunil Raina stepped into the precarious life that awaited him. He joined the corporate world after finishing his MBA from Aurangabad, Maharashtra. Today, he leads LAVA Mobiles as the President & Business Head, which is the only indigenous mobile manufacturing company in the country today. Their discussion touches upon the geo-political economy of the mobile phone industry, where Sunil theorizes the term - "Economic colonization," highlighting the importance of R&D and need for self-reliance in the Telecom industry to accelerate the Indian economy. This interview explores the journey of a Kashmiri Pandit, who started from scratch to build a successful life far away from his homeland. You’re listening to ‘Sonth,’ a Kashmiri-Hindustani bilingual podcast on hot-button historical, political, and socio-economic issues of Jammu and Kashmir, hosted by Editor-in-Chief Aarti Tikoo.

In this interview, Editor-in-Chief Aarti Tikoo and Melissa Levaillant, Foreign Policy Expert discuss the foreign policy of India, and examine contemporary issues from the standpoint of both Indian and European Union. Their discussion touches upon the perception of India in European nations, as well as China's expansionist tendencies in the Indo-Pacific Region and India's increasing importance and stature for major economic powers.

Gonchig Ganbold, a former diplomat and advisor to the Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia, joins Editor-in-chief Aarti Tikoo in an engaging discussion. Together, they delve into various topics, including the Mongolian polity, the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war, and the bilateral relations between India and Mongolia. Drawing upon his expertise and experience, Gonchig Ganbold provides valuable insights into the political landscape of Mongolia, shedding light on its unique dynamics and current challenges. Additionally, the conversation explores the implications and ramifications of the Ukraine-Russia war, emphasizing its global significance.

Vamsee Juluri, a professor of media studies at the University of San Francisco, provides a thought-provoking review of the significance and influence of the Indian diaspora in US politics. This analysis takes place against the backdrop of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's highly-anticipated visit to the USA from June 21-24, which garnered an immense response. Prof. Vamsee argues that while the Indian diaspora enjoys a substantial success, their political clout may not be as strong as perceived. He delves into the political campaign surrounding 'Hinduphobia' to shed light on the existing gaps in Hindu advocacy efforts. Engaging in a conversation with Editor-in-chief Aarti Tikoo, Prof. Vamsee explores the colonial mindset that perpetuates the confusion faced by Indians abroad in carrying their ancestral identity and cultural traits.

Dr. Sazawal and Editor-in-chief Aarti Tikoo delve into India-USA bilateral relations in the backdrop of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the United States from June 21-24. They explore the evolution of the India-USA relationship, particularly in the context of democratic and conservative governments in the United States. Dr. Sazawal argues that historically, India has often been subjected to "mango diplomacy" in its relationship with the United States, where the partnership was primarily limited due to nonproliferation issues governed by the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) which India wasn't a party to. He highlights that Democrats, in particular, did not display significant enthusiasm for developing a special relationship with India.Furthermore, Dr. Sazawal suggests that a "contradiction" exists within the Democratic Party, whereas conservative parties tend to have clearer demarcations when it comes to policy matters.

In this episode, Prof. Galsandorj Damba discusses the trade economy of Mongolia. Sandwiched between two nuclear powers, Russia and China, this Central Asian country possesses abundant mineral resources, which contribute to 20% of its GDP. Editor-in-chief Aarti Tikoo and Prof. Damba delve into the future trading prospects of Mongolia and the role India is playing in reducing its energy imports.

In an enlightening discussion, Professor Mishig-ish Baata (MAS, Mongolia) and Aarti Tikoo delve into the fascinating topic of the spread of Buddhism in Mongolia. They explore the historical interactions between ancient India and Mongolia, revealing the seeds of a relationship that can be traced back as far as 2000-10,000 years, as suggested by some experts.