by Vineet Mittal | 5 October, 2023
Navigating through the journey of life, where every step is an amalgamation of challenges and opportunities, there emerges a potent blend of courage and perseverance, defining every tale of triumph. Imagine standing at the crossroads of doubt, with your goals seemingly shrouded by the challenges ahead. What if the only barrier between you and your aspirations is a single step, hidden amidst the shadows of fear? Will you choose to retreat, or will you muster the courage to leap into the unknown?
- The Symbiosis of Courage and Perseverance
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- Courage and perseverance, while distinct, weave a seamless narrative through every challenge and victory. Courage propels us into the uncharted, while perseverance ensures we continue to tread, even when the path is daunting and steep.
- Leading with the Heart
- Deriving from the Latin root “cor,” courage is synonymous with leading with the heart. It signifies a willingness to embrace vulnerability, to step into the unknown, and to truly live, even when the path is strewn with challenges. The heart is the true gambler, taking risks and truly embracing life.
- Struggle: A Metaphor for Emerging Strength
- Struggles are not mere obstacles; they are the moulds that shape our strength and resolve. While surrendering amidst adversity is easy, it is through these very challenges that our true potential and capabilities are unveiled.
- Courage: The Foundation of Virtues
- Courage is not merely a virtue but the foundation upon which all other virtues stand. Without courage, virtues like truth, love, and trust cannot find a place to root. It is courage that enables us to be truthful, to love without conditions, and to trust even amidst uncertainty.
- Nurturing the Heart: Fostering Courageous Leaders
- Education should transcend the boundaries of mere knowledge dissemination and step into the realm of character development. If we can instil courage in every student, we are not merely educating minds but nurturing future leaders who will navigate through challenges with their hearts leading the way.
- Perseverance: The Quiet Whisper of Courage
- When confronted with the choice to advance or withdraw, perseverance whispers the echoes of our initial courage, reminding us of the heart that launched us into the unknown. It prompts us, “Have you given it your all?” and in that moment of introspection, we discover the strength to persist.
- Learning Through Courage
- Mistakes and failures are not setbacks but stepping stones, guiding us closer to the truth through the lens of courage. It’s an individual exploration, a journey where we must have the courage to stumble, learn, and rise again.
In the harmonious journey of life, courage and perseverance craft the melodies that sing of victory. The heart, with its infinite courage, launches us into the unknown, while perseverance, with its steadfast resolve, ensures we continue to march forward, even when the path is unclear. So, as you stand at the junction of decision, peering into the unknown, ask yourself: “Will I give up too soon, or will I embrace the heartbeat of perseverance and step into the unknown?” The choice is yours, and in that choice, your story unfolds, either as a narrative of withdrawal or as an epic of courage and perseverance.
by Vineet Mittal | 2 October, 2023
Introduction
Mahatma, a term connoting a ‘Great Soul’ (Mahan Aatma), is not just a title but a testament to the timeless wisdom and moral leadership exemplified by Gandhiji. His life and philosophies embody the ideals of selfless service, ethical conduct, and a deep, unwavering commitment to social justice and equality.
In the sacred text of Gita, Lord Krishna expounds, यद्यदाचरति श्रेष्ठस्तत्तदेवेतरो जनः। स यत्प्रमाणं कुरुते लोकस्तदनुवर्तते
“Whatever action a great man performs, common men follow. And whatever standards he sets by exemplary acts, all the world pursues” . This shloka beautifully encapsulates how the thoughts, actions, and philosophies of influential figures, such as Gandhiji, transmute into a guiding light, inspiring society and leaders across generations.
- Spirituality Enkindling Leadership: Walking Gandhiji’s Path
The threads of spirituality weaved through Gandhiji’s leadership reveal how actions, when rooted in moral and spiritual fortitude, resonate with authenticity and create profound impacts. For today’s leaders, embedding spirituality into their actions and decisions becomes a beacon that ensures ethical, sincere, and impactful leadership.
- Governance with Benevolence: Encapsulating Compassion and Authority
In Gandhiji’s view, governance was not merely about authority but intrinsically linked with benevolence and compassion towards the populace. The embodiment of compassionate governance ensures that policies and strategies are formulated with a genuine concern for the well-being and upliftment of every citizen.
- Social Justice: Forging Enterprises that Serve
Infusing Gandhiji’s staunch adherence to social justice into modern enterprises means sculpting businesses that are profitable yet deeply intertwined with the principles of societal welfare and equity. The leaders can thereby ensure that their enterprises are not just financially successful but also serve as pillars supporting societal upliftment and equality.
- Reverence for Nature: Steering Economies towards Sustainability
Gandhiji’s intrinsic respect for nature and the principle of non-exploitation guides leaders to helm economies that are symbiotic with the environment. An environmental stewardship approach, one that respects and nurtures nature, ensures sustainable, and ethically responsible economic development.
- Self-sufficiency: Enabling Robust Local Ecosystems
Gandhiji’s emphasis on self-sufficiency and utilizing local resources and capabilities presents a path for leaders to empower and fortify local communities. This approach ensures that economic development is inclusive, rooted in local capabilities, and benefits permeate to every strata of society.
- Equality and Inclusivity: Bridging Divides, Crafting Unity
In the spirit of Gandhiji’s teachings, leaders can forge societies and systems where opportunities and resources are equitably accessible to all, dismantling hierarchies and fostering an environment where every individual is an equal participant in collective progress.
- Ahimsa in Resolution: Peaceful Dialogues and Harmonious Solutions
Embedding Gandhiji’s principle of Ahimsa (non-violence) into leadership and governance means fostering environments where conflicts are addressed through peaceful dialogues and negotiations, ensuring the creation of solutions that are harmonious and constructive.
- Ethical Foundations: Moral Upheld in Progress
Underpinning actions, strategies, and policies with a strong ethical foundation, as exemplified by Gandhiji, ensures that the journey towards progress and development doesn’t waiver from moral and ethical pathways.
The ethos exemplified by Gandhiji – of moral integrity, compassionate leadership, social justice, environmental stewardship, and ethical conduct – presents a rich tapestry from which leaders, be it in businesses, governance, or social sectors, can draw. In adhering to these principles, leaders not only forge paths that are financially and materially prosperous but also ensure that such prosperity is deeply entwined with ethical, social, and environmental well-being.
In the reflections of Gandhiji’s principles, the leaders of today find not merely strategies for development but a compassionate, equitable, and sustainable path towards a future that honours every individual, community, and the environment as stakeholders in collective prosperity and welfare.
by Vineet Mittal | 1 October, 2023
The entire world is now facing environmental threats from global warming and climate change, rapid population growth, pollution, and forest degradation. To mitigate and address these problems, Environmental Education has become increasingly important amidst the current environmental crises.
Empowering children and youth with access to essential skills and knowledge enhances their resilience in the face of climate-related challenges. They grow, they learn, and they evolve to become the ultimate change makers. This odyssey spans across generations, carrying the profound aspirations and collective dreams of our world.
Significance of Environment Education in Ancient India
International dialogues, like the Earth Summit in 1992, which led to Agenda 21, and the International Conference on Environment and Society culminating in the Thessaloniki Declaration in 1997, have underscored the critical importance of environmental education. To secure a sustainable future, it is imperative that research efforts align with environmental education research, both at the local and global levels.
Numerous international organizations and initiatives, including UNESCO, UNEP, the Japan-U.S. Common Agenda, and the Environmental Congress for Asia and the Pacific (ECO ASIA), have proactively supported environmental education. However, several outstanding issues still demand our attention and action.
In India, the Supreme Court has mandated the University Grants Commission to introduce environmental courses in universities and establish two centers of excellence for environmental education and awareness. In Indonesia, the Ministry of Population and Environment, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Culture, has established Environmental Study Centers (ESC) in state universities to fulfill the Tridharma missions of education and training, research, and community service related to the living environment. Meanwhile, in Malaysia, the Department of Wildlife and National Parks offers camping and nature education courses for schoolchildren on weekends and holidays, facilitated by the Ministry of Education, which provides schools, instructors, and facilities for the program.
International discussions, such as the Earth Summit that resulted in Agenda 21 in 1992 and the International Conference on Environment and Society leading to the Thessaloniki Declaration in 1997, have emphasized the crucial role of environmental education. To move forward sustainably, we must integrate research for a sustainable future with research on environmental education. This includes identifying challenges and the current state of environmental education in various regions, devising effective curricula and professional development strategies, creating suitable media and technologies for environmental education, and establishing and supporting networks. Thus, our primary objective is to enhance awareness and concern for environmental quality through a program focused on capacity building in environmental education, action research, and community development to improve the quality of life and environments in the Asia-Pacific region.
In India, All India Radio (AIR) plays a significant role in mass communication. It broadcasts at least one program on an environmental theme each day at all of its broadcasting stations. Additionally, several NGOs collaborate with AIR to facilitate broadcasting on environmental topics.
Nevertheless, there is still much work to be done. While environmental science has been of great importance throughout history, significant concern was not raised until observable signs of deterioration resulting from human activities emerged.
Latin America and the Caribbean face substantial challenges due to climate change and external meteorological phenomena, causing severe damage to health, life, food, water, energy, and socioeconomic development. Millions of children in the region are exposed to water scarcity, cyclones, heat waves, and air pollution.
The Road Ahead:
Harnessing the potential of children and youth as catalysts for change is paramount, and it starts with education at the core of their empowerment. This education equips them to engage in and lead initiatives that address the critical challenges of our time, particularly climate change, ecosystem restoration, sustainable production and consumption, and the adoption of eco-friendly lifestyles.
Universities, too, can play a pivotal role in reducing their environmental impact. By championing online or hybrid learning models, they can significantly curtail the need for physical travel, thereby diminishing carbon emissions and cost burdens.
Online education alone, as highlighted in a study published in the journal Applied Energy by Elsevier, has contributed to substantial reductions in carbon emissions equivalent to 1.296 hours in China, 2.688 hours in the US, 5.544 hours in India, 12 hours in Japan, and 3.864 hours in OECD European countries within just six months.
To make this vision a reality, we must prioritise teacher training and professional development. Offering specialised training and growth opportunities for educators ensures that they are well-prepared to impart environmental knowledge effectively. Moreover, encouraging teachers to weave real-world environmental issues into their lessons fosters a deeper understanding and connection to these critical topics.
The path ahead may be challenging, but with the right knowledge and unwavering determination, children can drive the change our planet desperately needs.
So let us rally behind our children and youth, providing them with the tools, education, and inspiration they need to shape a sustainable future. Together, we can turn their innocence into a force for transformative change and leave a legacy of environmental stewardship that will endure for generations to come.
by Vineet Mittal | 28 September, 2023
As we step into a new era, the Indian power sector stands at the threshold of remarkable growth and transformation. The recent surge in power demand, the significant strides in renewable energy, and strategic policy actions have set the stage for a promising decade ahead. Let us delve into the factors that suggest the power sector in India is expected to continue thriving in the coming years.
- Surging Power Demand:
In August 2023, India witnessed a substantial spike in power demand, with energy consumption ranging between 4,500-5,130MU and peak demand soaring to an average of 221GW, marking an impressive increase from the 199GW recorded in July 2023. The monthly peak demand reported a staggering 21% year-on-year (YoY) growth, while energy demand grew by 15% YoY. However, this growing demand has also exposed a shortage in power supply, which surged by 65% YoY to 766MU in August 2023, marking the highest deficit since June 2022.
- Remarkable Power Generation Growth:
Total power generation showed significant improvement, soaring by 14% YoY to reach 160BU in August 2023. What’s even more promising is the increasing contribution of renewable energy (RE), which accounted for 13.9% of total generation in August 2023, showcasing the nation’s commitment to sustainable energy sources.
- Renewables on the Rise:
India’s renewable energy sector is poised for growth due to various policy actions, declining input costs, and increasing tariffs. The pace of solar project execution is expected to accelerate in the coming months, promising cleaner and more sustainable energy sources for the nation. Wind capacity installations in India surged by an impressive 144% YoY to reach 1,307MW during the year-to-date FY24.
- Tariff Evolution:
The average tariff in the day-ahead spot power market witnessed a significant upswing, jumping to INR 6.9/kWh in August 2023, from INR 4.5/kWh in July 2023. This upward trend in tariffs is a positive sign for the sector, providing more revenue to support infrastructure development and maintenance.
- Expanding Generation Capacity:
Between April and July 2023, India added 4,365MW of solar, 1,307MW of wind, 874MW of thermal, and 700MW of nuclear capacities. As of July 2023, the country boasts an installed capacity of 423GW, with non-fossil and renewable energy sources contributing significantly, accounting for 185GW and 131GW, respectively.
- Growing Domestic Manufacturing:
India’s reliance on solar module imports from China witnessed a staggering decline of 76%, equivalent to a colossal 7.5 gigawatts (GW) year-on-year. This dramatic reduction slashed the import total from 9.8 GW in the first half of 2022 to a mere 2.3 GW during the corresponding period in 2023.
- Solar Input Material Cost Trends:
The cost of solar components, including polysilicon, wafers, and cells, has declined due to global capacity expansions and systemic oversupply. While there are recent signs of a gradual price increase, these cost reductions have made solar energy more affordable and accessible for consumers and businesses alike.
In conclusion, the Indian power sector is at an exciting crossroads, poised for continued growth and development. The surging power demand, expanding generation capacity, increasing reliance on renewables, and the resilience of the coal sector all contribute to the sector’s positive outlook. With strategic policy initiatives and a commitment to sustainability, India is well-positioned to meet its energy needs and drive economic growth in the coming decade. The future of India’s power sector is bright, promising a more electrified and sustainable nation for all its citizens.
by Vineet Mittal | 26 September, 2023
In a world grappling with the daunting reality of the climate crisis, the urgency of robust climate financing has never been more palpable. As the entire world prepares for the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP), it’s time for us to take a bold stand, championing adaptation, equity, and financial aid in our fight against climate change.
The Paris Agreement, which set its sights on curbing global temperature increases to within 1.5°C of pre-industrial levels, has been our guiding beacon for eight years. Since COP21 in 2015, the COP meetings have centered around the Paris Agreement’s threefold mission: to limit the global average temperature rise to ‘well below’ 2°C while striving for 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, to adapt to climate change and foster resilience, and to channel financial flows towards a pathway of low greenhouse gas emissions and climate-resilient development.’
As COP28 approaches, it’s time for a comprehensive “global stocktake” to gauge our progress in emissions reduction and our efforts to combat climate change. It’s apparent that we are falling short of meeting the agreement’s goals, but there is still a hope to expedite the transition.
Funding: At the heart of our strategy lies the imperative to fund climate compensation. The road ahead is fraught with significant financial hurdles. Confronting the climate crisis necessitates massive investments. Estimates indicate that transitioning to a low-carbon global economy requires an annual influx of $4-6 trillion until 2050. Realizing the ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2030 mandates an annual investment of no less than $4 trillion in the renewable energy sector alone.
Additionally, developing nations require roughly $6 trillion between 2022 and 2030 to effectively implement their climate action plans. To meet these towering challenges, it is necessary to allocate at least 5% of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to climate action annually.
While the promise of developed nations to provide $100 billion annually by 2020 for supporting climate endeavors in developing nations is commendable, it falls significantly short of the actual climate financing requirements. Reports underscore the necessity for an astounding $1 trillion per year in external climate finance by 2030—a figure that dwarfs the current annual mobilized amount of $50-80 billion. Moreover, in 2020, a mere $83.3 billion flowed into the coffers of developing and emerging economies, often in the form of loans.
Green Technology Financing: The transition to green technology necessitates substantial investment, with expenditures projected to reach approximately $4 trillion by 2030. COP28 will delve into the critical discussion of financing green technology. Encouraging progress includes initiatives such as the US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the European Union’s REPowerEU plan. The IRA, with its provision of $370 billion in incentives for low-carbon technologies, coupled with investment mechanisms like ITC and PTC, aggregates to a monumental $1.2 trillion. Government incentives play a pivotal role in green technology investments, delivering certainty and stability to the private sector. We must also contemplate ways in which the IRA can be harnessed in export markets to further invigorate the green technology sector.
Cooperative Approaches under Article 6.2: The time has come to underscore the pivotal role of cooperative approaches stipulated in Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement. We must accentuate the significance of country participation in these cooperative endeavors, facilitating green trade between the global south and north. This opens doors for cost-effective funding in the global south and provides preferential market access to the global north for products such as solar panels, green ammonia, and green methanol.
As we stand on the cusp of COP28, let us remember that our actions today will shape the world of tomorrow. The challenges are immense, but so is our collective resolve. Therefore, a strong outcome at COP28 is crucial to achieve the desired goals.
Let us embrace this opportunity with unwavering commitment and unwavering hope. Let us be the change-makers, the innovators, and the leaders who rise to the occasion. Together, we can rewrite the narrative of our planet’s future, ensuring a sustainable, equitable, and thriving world for generations to come.
The road may be tough, but the destination is worth every effort. Let us march into COP28 with our heads held high, our hearts aflame with purpose, and our actions echoing the sentiment that we are the guardians of this planet.
