Are we a soft state ?

We are the carriers of Ashoka's legacy of good governance, peace and justice. Rich history of violence of historic India is deterrent enough for us to show restraint to drive us into any potential war. However our wisdom and peace seeking nature is sometimes viewed as an attribute of a weak state.

India is a vibrant democracy, huge economy and a nuclear power. Our strengths had already been tested in wars fought before and on any analyse we are a strong nation democratically, economically and militarily. Calculated responses are often underestimated as inability by laymen, however it is duty of the wise to not escalate petty issue for chest thumping and arrogance.

This attitude of our country has made quite a reputation of a responsible nuclear state. Our views are rational which is respected and heard. Strength to restrain is a quality of the wise. We have to strike when we have to. But war mongering never generates any solid results.

Diplomatically this had made us stronger and our views valued. Recent surgical strikes along line of control is a clear message that our patience is running out and we are not shy to act when it is required.

Are our traditional handicrafts doomed to slow death ?

During our struggle for independence Gandhiji had effectively curtailed the invasion of the Industrialized textile Industry of British Empire by raising a call for "swadeshi" and igniting nationalist feeling in masses.

That breath given by father of our nation to 'dying' industry had saved millions who depended handicrafts for their bread. A similar intrusion is introduced at the advent of globalization and opening of the domestic market. A consumerist culture is slowly nurtured for boosting the economy and the government must be dutiful in ensuring the livelihood of the stakeholders in such a situation.

Such a culture is visible in our small towns and urban villages alike. As we are expecting urbanization in near future, a strategy for the utilization of the skills involved in handicrafts must be considered. Linking handicrafts talent pool to the fashion industry or creating a portal for direct marketing such as designed by Khadi board must be strengthened.

We are a developing nation, and our wings are strong to carry our traditional industries if we can adapt to changing scenario. Such an initiative will have multiple benefits economically and socially. Better market ensures higher earnings and it triggers better health and tax remittance for society.

Thus our dilemma is reduced to "half full/empty" pessimist optimist debate and we must not miss this opportunity

the most important day is the one he failed to deliver something that everyone expects him to be delivered. for this day he learns his lesson of commitment