Bharatvaarta

India’s tax system is once again at a crossroads with GST 2.0. What began as the biggest reform in independent India was riddled with compromises, complexities, and billion-rupee disputes — but what do the new changes really mean for ordinary citizens? Tax lawyer and founder of Tax Compaas, Ajay Rotti, joins us to break it all down. In this insightful conversation, Ajay explains why GST was born more political than economic, how disputes over popcorn, KitKat, and cosmetic creams exposed deep flaws in the system, and why rate rationalisation today is less a revolution than a course correction. We also dive into what GST 2.0 means for the real middle class — from grocery bills and dairy products to insurance and savings — and why simpler compliance could finally give relief to businesses and MSMEs. Ajay sheds light on how tax tribunals might speed up litigation, why expanding the tax base is essential, and how trust, not just revenue, is the true foundation of a fair tax system. Finally, we turn to the larger picture: how taxation shapes India’s growth story, the balance between states and the Centre, and why reforms must go beyond collections to building confidence in governance. Chapters 00:00 – Intro 01:00 – From Popcorn to Shampoo: Making GST Rates Simple 10:00 – Why GST Had So Many Slabs in the First Place 20:00 – Inside the GST Council: How India Decides Taxes 30:00 – One Nation, One Tax: Logistics & Compliance Gains 45:00 – Insurance, Housing & Middle Class Impact 55:00 – The Future of GST: Can We Get to One Simple Rate? ⸻ 👉 If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe to Bharatvaarta! We bring you deep, thoughtful discussions on politics, policy, and culture every week. 📢 Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Bharatvaarta 📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/Bharatvaarta 👤 Follow the Host – Roshan Cariappa 📢 Twitter/X: https://x.com/RoshanCariappa 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carygottheblues/

India’s foreign policy faces new challenges as the US shifts from calling us a “partner” to branding us “problematic.” What does this mean for India’s place in the world? Abhijit Chavda breaks it all down. In this explosive conversation, Abhijit Chavda breaks down how Washington’s view of India has shifted from “most important partner” to “problematic.” We examine Peter Navarro’s outburst, why tariffs are no longer trade tools but geopolitical weapons, and how the deep state often pulls strings behind elected governments. The discussion also covers Trump’s possible return and what it means for India, China’s long game of boxing us in, and the uncomfortable truth that superpowers have no friends—only interests. Abhijit explains how globalisation and the dollar are used as levers of control, why Europe is losing relevance in the emerging order, and how technology has become the new battlefield. Finally, we turn the focus back to India: why we lack long-term strategic will, why short-term politics keeps us on the defensive, and what it would take for India to start thinking in centuries, not election cycles. ⸻ Chapters 00:00 – Intro 07:48 – Why India Is Suddenly “Problematic” for the US 15:51 – From Partner to Pawn: Washington’s Mask Slips 24:02 – Tariffs as Geopolitical Weapons 32:09 – The Deep State and Its Global Games 40:08 – Trump’s Return: What It Means for India 48:06 – China’s Strategy: Boxing India In 56:06 – Superpowers Have No Friends, Only Interests 01:04:11 – Globalisation and the Dollar Trap 01:12:17 – Europe’s Decline in the New World Order 01:20:24 – Technology and India’s Crossroads 01:26:40 – Final Thoughts: Can India Think in Centuries? ⸻ 👉 If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe to Bharatvaarta! We bring you deep, thoughtful discussions on politics, policy, and culture every week. 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2slDFL5jAFh8k0XK3yR2sQ 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/bharatvaarta/id1510599852 📢 Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Bharatvaarta 📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/Bharatvaarta

In this hard-hitting follow-up, author Medha ji dismantles pop-culture myths around the Mughals and revisits why Ch. Shivaji Maharaj’s revolution mattered. She challenges romanticized screen portrayals (Salim the “hero,” Akbar the “liberal”) with court chronicles and references, then contrasts them with Ch. Shivaji’s governance—protecting civilians, punishing molestation, and easing agrarian burdens. We also examine the human cost of imperial monuments—extraction from farmers, enslavement, famine—and ecological shifts like poppy displacing native crops, alongside Jahangir’s own tally of mass hunts. Finally, we address textbook narratives that blur the Maratha handover to the British—and why remembering accurately matters now. Chapters- 00:00 – Intro 01:07 – Why History, Not Religion, Matters in This Discussion 03:12 – Bollywood Myths: Salim the Drunkard, Akbar’s Scouts & Harems 10:18 – Babur’s Atrocities & Guru Nanak’s Testimony 17:26 – The Massacre at Chittorgarh: 40,000 Killed 22:12 – Jahangir’s Hunts, Addictions & Obsessions 28:25 – Slavery, Eunuchs & Exploitation under the Mughals 34:47 – Ch. Shivaji Maharaj's Moral Code: Protecting Women & Civilians 35:14 – The Tax Burden: 50% vs 10% Under Shivaji 39:50 – What Did the Mughals Really Give India? 41:05 – Monuments, Temples & the Cost of Glory 43:15 – Distorted History: Who Really Ruled Before the British? 48:20 – Broken Temples, Opium Cultivation & Ecological Collapse 50:18 – Skull Mounds, Famines & Forgotten Horrors 52:30 – Final Message: Reclaiming India’s Story 👉 If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe to Bharatvaarta! We bring you deep, thoughtful discussions on politics, policy, and culture every week. 📢 Follow us on Twitter for updates: twitter.com/Bharatvaarta 📸 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/Bharatvaarta

In this honest and deeply inspiring episode, IPS officer and bestselling author Amit Lodha — the real-life hero behind Netflix’s Khakee: The Bihar Chapter — shares raw insights from his journey of justice, storytelling, and service. From chasing hardened criminals across Bihar to writing bestsellers in stolen moments of silence, Amit Lodha reflects on what it means to stay principled in a world that rarely rewards it. He talks about crime, leadership, failure, and finding purpose — not just in uniform, but in everyday life. A must-watch for anyone seeking courage, clarity, and conviction in their own journey. 👮‍♂️📚

In this stirring episode, author Medha Bhaskaran uncovers the brutal history of the Hindu holocaust, forgotten battles, and the rise of Shivaji — not just as a warrior, but as a revolutionary leader who transformed barren land and broken people into a thriving Swarajya. From centuries of invasion to the emotional rebirth of nationhood, she shares vivid, unflinching stories of enslavement, resistance, and the magical connection between Shivaji and his people. A must-watch for anyone interested in Indian history, forgotten narratives, and what it really took to build an empire from scratch. 🏹🔥

In this incredible conversation, Intel technologist and grassroots leader Ananthan Ayyasamy shares his astonishing rise—from farm labor and caste barriers in rural Tamil Nadu to becoming a top 1% realtor in the U.S. and writing patents at Intel. But the story doesn’t stop there. Ananthan gave it all up to return to India—fighting for clean politics, rural upliftment, and systemic change through his foundation and public service. This episode is a masterclass in perseverance, service, and impact. A must-watch for anyone who believes in the Indian dream—and wants to build it. 💪🇮🇳

In this bold and wide-ranging conversation, investor and author Saurabh Mukherjea explains how artificial intelligence is triggering the biggest shift in India’s white-collar workforce in decades. With powerful data, historical insight, and personal anecdotes, he unpacks how job roles, education models, and middle-class ambition itself must be reimagined. From creative destruction to entrepreneurial reinvention, from social conditioning to skill-based survival, this episode offers a roadmap for anyone navigating careers, identity, and opportunity in the AI era. A must-watch for professionals, students, parents, and policymakers who care about India’s future. 🎙️🚀

In this insightful conversation, economist Neelkanth Mishra (Chief Economist, Axis Bank) breaks down how India can unlock its true growth potential—and the invisible challenges holding us back. From workforce participation to capital cycles, from China’s competitive lessons to India’s fiscal discipline—this is a masterclass in decoding the Indian economy. Neelkanth also pulls back the curtain on India’s bureaucracy, governance bottlenecks, and the difficult balance between good economics and winning politics. A must-watch for anyone who cares about India’s future and wants to understand how we can rise faster, smarter, stronger. 🇮🇳📈 A must-watch for every founder, policymaker, student, or citizen with a stake in India’s economic journey. 🚀 ⸻ 00:00 – Intro 01:00 – India’s Potential Growth: Workforce, Capital & Productivity 07:07 – The Invisible Roadblocks to Reform 13:52 – How China Forced India’s Bureaucracy to Wake Up 20:35 – Good Economics vs. Bad Politics: Can Fiscal Prudence Win? 25:20 – How India Can Become Export Competitive 30:32 – City-Led vs Distributed Growth: What’s Better for India? 34:31 – Why Managing Urban Growth is Critical 34:42 – Rapid Fire: Past Economic Myths & Books That Changed His Thinking 35:50 – Closing: Markets vs Institutions & Final Thoughts

In this explosive conversation, public intellectual and Infinity Foundation founder Rajiv Malhotra reveals how India is sleepwalking into a new era of digital and ideological colonization. From the failure to build indigenous AI platforms to the dangers of caste-based politics and woke education, this episode is a wake-up call for anyone who cares about India’s sovereignty and civilizational identity. Rajiv ji also shares personal insights from decades of activism, his experience with US policymakers, and the need for a long-overdue Ministry of Civilization in India. A must-watch for students, policy thinkers, technologists, and cultural warriors. 00:00 - The Failure of Indian Elites in R&D and Technology 01:18 - Introduction to Rajiv Malhotra & His Work 02:00 - Why Tit-for-Tat on Terrorism Won’t Work 04:00 - Baluchistan as a Strategic Counter 06:00 - India’s Narrative War and Liberal Media Blackout 07:30 - The Cost of Speaking Out: Rajiv’s Personal Journey 09:00 - Caste Census & the Collapse of Meritocracy 12:00 - Quotas vs. Quality: How India Is Losing the Talent War 14:30 - Fixing Education: Start from Kindergarten, Not Quotas 16:00 - Inside the Trump Administration & US Policy Lessons 18:30 - India’s Strategic Blindspots in Diplomacy 20:00 - AI Colonization & India’s Tech Dependency 23:00 - Why No Indian LLMs Exist—and Why It Matters 26:00 - Breaking India 2.0: Targeting Kids & Cultural Roots 29:00 - Language, Identity & The Problem With English Education 31:00 - What a Real Bharatiya Education Policy Should Look Like 33:00 - Elites Selling Out & The Ivy League Obsession 35:00 - Hindu Phobia on US Campuses & Rajiv’s Fightback 37:00 - The Rise of Intellectual Sepoys 39:00 - How Should India Engage With the West and China? 41:00 - Why India Needs Its Own DARPA for Defense Innovation 42:00 - What Can Hindu Parents Do Today? 44:00 - Future Plans: Rajiv’s Books, School of Thought & Legacy 47:00 - Meditation in the Kurukshetra: A Daily Practice 49:00 - If Rajiv Met PM Modi Today—What He’d Urge 52:00 - The Need for a Ministry of Civilization 53:00 - Final Reflections & Misunderstood Figures

Join us for an unflinching conversation with Vikram Sood, former Chief of R&AW (India’s foreign intelligence agency), as he decodes the deeper layers behind the recent terror attacks in Kashmir and the shifting geopolitical chessboard. This episode explores the nature of modern asymmetric warfare, the role of local collaboration in cross-border terror, and the strategic motivations of Pakistan’s military establishment. Mr. Sood also analyzes why India’s response must be calibrated, cold-blooded, and economic—and not always kinetic. He explains how China’s shadow looms large in the region, why Russia’s silence is worrying, and how the average Kashmiri today sees more value in integration with India than ever before. A must-watch for anyone interested in intelligence, national security, and India’s foreign policy in a multipolar world. 00:00 - Introduction & Recap of the Recent Terror Attack 01:10 - Tactical Breach or Strategic Failure? 04:00 - Why Pulling Troops Now Would Be a Mistake 06:00 - Kashmir’s Economy Beyond Tourism 08:00 - Political Unity vs. Opportunism After Attacks 10:00 - How the State Asserts Control Post-Attack 13:00 - Strategic Incentives Behind Proxy War 16:00 - Cold-Blooded Attacks and the Logic of Escalation 20:00 - Pakistan Army's Deep Interest in Prolonged Conflict 23:00 - Post-Article 370 Progress in Kashmir 26:00 - Can Kashmiri Pandits Return? 29:00 - China's Role and Strategic Interests in Kashmir 32:00 - Russian Ambivalence and Global Alignments 36:00 - The Problem with Emotional Responses 40:00 - When Should India Opt for Kinetic Action? 44:00 - Lessons from Balakot & Sri Lanka’s LTTE Strategy 48:00 - Media Narratives vs. Reality on the Ground 52:00 - Pakistan’s Motivation: From Obsession to Provocation 55:00 - Psychological Warfare and Narrative Control 59:00 - Kashmir’s Future and the Need for Inclusive Development 01:03:00 - China's Influence on India's Strategic Calculus 01:06:00 - Final Reflections: IPL, Humor, and Hope 01:07:00 - Thank You & Closing

Join us for a compelling discussion with Sanjeev Sanyal, a distinguished Member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Economic Advisory Council. We delve deep into the intricacies of India's current economic policies and its ambitious growth aspirations. Explore the strategic initiatives driving India's development, the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and the anticipated growth trajectory in the global context. While the primary focus is on the Indian economic narrative, he also offers his expert analysis on the broader global economic environment, including the ripple effects of Trump's tariffs and the prevailing uncertainty in the global stock markets. This episode provides a nuanced understanding of India's economic future from a leading voice at the heart of the nation's economic policymaking. 00:00 - India’s Growth, Restraint & the Free Trade Dream 01:00 - How India Plans to Navigate Global Trade Uncertainty 05:07 - Minimum Government vs Maximum Governance: India’s Gradual Approach 07:54 - Reform Pushbacks & Lessons from the Farm Laws 10:20 - Why Controlled Growth is Better Than Maximalist Growth 12:30 - Creative Destruction & Why Planning the Future Rarely Works 16:01 - India Doesn’t Need Uniform Thinking—It Needs Flexibility 18:04 - Meeting Historical Icons Who Shaped Turning Points 20:17 - Envisioning Bharat @2047: A Civilizational Comeback 23:57 - India’s Lost Maritime Legacy & Why It Matters Today 27:12 - The Population Debate: Fertility, Fairness & Federalism 30:30 - What India Must Prioritize to Reach the Next Growth Orbit 36:18 - Why Indian Industry Needs More Risk & Less Inheritance 37:20 - Adapt to Chaos: India’s Real Superpower

In this episode of Bharatvaarta, host Sharan engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Professor Goutham Desiraju from the Indian Institute of Science. The discussion revolves around Professor Desiraju's follow-up book on the delimitation of states in India, a pressing and contentious topic in contemporary Indian politics. The conversation addresses the need for equal value of votes across different constituencies, the historical and political context of the delimitation freeze, and the implications of reconfiguring state boundaries. Professor Desiraju provides a comprehensive analysis of how delimitation, if done scientifically and fairly, can help India become a more balanced and prosperous democracy. The episode also touches on the broader themes of governance, the effects of linguistic states, and the importance of electoral reforms in achieving a true global leadership status for Bharat by 2047. Topics: 00:00 Introduction 01:37 Discussion on Delimitation 06:57 Historical Context and Current Issues 11:19 Challenges and Future Prospects 18:35 Demographic Concerns and Solutions 38:58 Linguistic Politics and British Influence 43:05 The British Strategy Against Orissa 43:48 Linguistic States and Social Silence 44:37 British Influence on Local Languages 46:35 Historical Repetition and Linguistic Demands 47:26 Gandhi and Linguistic States 50:17 The Role of Language in Identity 51:25 Jesuit Influence in Tamil Nadu 54:48 The Evolution of Language and Identity 01:06:19 Small States and Governance 01:13:09 Concluding Thoughts on Delimitation Buy the book Amazon: https://amzn.in/d/aetUjcS

Why are the markets falling? Is this just another cycle, or is something bigger at play? In this deep-dive conversation, top financial experts break down the Trump Trade, global economic shifts, and how retail investors should navigate uncertain markets. From the impact of foreign investors pulling out to India's long-term growth story, this episode uncovers critical insights on the financial landscape. Harsh Gupta Madhusudan, economist, investor, and author, shares his deep insights on macroeconomic trends, market cycles, and the forces shaping India’s financial future. Aashish Somaiyya, veteran asset manager and industry leader, brings his expertise on retail investing, market behavior, and how investors can position themselves for long-term success. They also discuss how to navigate the current investment climate, where to find value in sectors like financial services and consumer discretionary, and the significance of investment metrics. Their advice includes practical tips on portfolio management and the importance of aligning one's investments with long-term economic growth. The conversation is rich with insights about managing investments during volatile periods and the potential of sectors and asset classes beyond traditional equities. 📌 Timestamps 00:00 Introduction: Market Trends and Cycles 00:30 India's Market Performance and Key Guests 00:46 Discussion with Ash Gupta and Ashish Sumaya 01:41 Understanding Market Corrections and Investor Behavior 02:19 Impact of US Policies on Global Markets 04:30 The Role of US Treasury Yields 09:36 Market Cycles and Investor Psychology 17:05 The Future of Foreign Investments in India 28:19 Regulatory Framework and Financial Inclusion in India 37:14 Balancing Capitalism and Welfare 37:58 Fiscal Responsibility and Growth 39:02 Supporting Vulnerable Sections 40:33 Government Spending and CapEx Cycles 42:00 Private Sector and CapEx Growth 42:44 Interest Rates and RBI Policies 43:43 Demand Stimulation and Economic Asymmetry 48:12 Small Caps and Investment Strategies 55:24 Market Cycles and Portfolio Management 01:12:51 Herd Behavior and Market Corrections 01:15:14 Investment Strategies: Balancing Trading and Investing 01:16:49 Sector Analysis: Financial Services and Discretionary Consumption 01:17:36 Impact of Pay Commissions on Consumption 01:19:14 Financials and Capital Markets: Opportunities and Trends 01:22:30 Choosing the Right Stocks: Metrics and Strategies 01:43:30 The Role of Private Equity and Real Estate in Investment Portfolios 01:47:09 The Future of Crypto and Alternative Investments 01:48:35 Optimism for India's Economic Future 01:51:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Is Hinduism misunderstood in the West? Bestselling author & cultural icon Amish Tripathi reveals the truth about India’s past, exposing colonial lies and misconceptions about Hinduism. He discusses the resurgence of spirituality in India, its evolving identity, and how ancient wisdom is shaping the modern world. From his viral Oxford Union debate defending Hinduism against atheists to his insights on the role of Sadhus and leaders like Modi & Yogi, Amish offers a powerful perspective. Discover why India's economic rise fuels cultural confidence and how Hinduism adapts in the modern age. Learn about his journey from author to filmmaker and what the West can learn from Hinduism. Topics: 00:00 - Introduction 02:10 - Why Millions Are Turning to Spirituality 06:45 - West vs. India: The Binary vs. Nuanced Thinking 12:30 - Why India’s Economic Rise Fuels Cultural Confidence 18:15 - Oxford Union Debate: Defending Hinduism Against Atheists 23:40 - Colonial Lies & Misconceptions About Hinduism 30:10 - Who Really Wrote Indian History? The British Narrative Exposed 35:45 - The Role of Sadhus: Why They’re NOT Like Western Monks 41:20 - Why India Respects Selfless Leaders Like Modi & Yogi 47:05 - How Hinduism Adapts While Abrahamic Religions Struggle 52:30 - The Power of Rituals & Why They Matter Today 58:45 - From Author to Filmmaker: Amish’s Journey Into Documentaries 1:05:20 - Final Thoughts: What the West Can Learn from Hinduism

In this episode, we delve into the rapid geopolitical changes with new governments in Delhi and the US, and Donald Trump's ambitious agenda. We discuss the impact of these changes, including the Ukraine war and its implications on global power dynamics. The focus then shifts to India, its defense strategies, and its need for fifth-generation fighter planes. We also explore China's military maneuvers, climate change, and the concept of World War III. The discussion wraps up with India's potential in AI, innovations in the tech industry, and the critical need for data-driven decisions for India to emerge as a superpower. Tune in for an engaging and comprehensive conversation on these pressing global issues. 00:00 Sneak peak 01:02 Introduction 01:40 Current Geopolitical changes 02:57 India's Defense Strategy: F-35 vs. Sukhoi 57 07:54 Challenges in India's Defense and Space Sectors 12:34 The American Empire: Decline or Dominance? 18:47 China-India Relations: Border Tensions and Trade 27:05 AI and Innovation: India's Technological Future 33:12 India's Historical Greatness and Brain Drain 33:34 Illegal Immigration and Its Consequences 35:35 Missed Opportunities in Indian History 37:50 Climate Change: Human Impact and Natural Cycles 40:55 Potential World War III and Nuclear Deterrence 43:40 Ancient Civilizations and Misconceptions 51:42 Artificial Intelligence: The Future of Humanity 54:48 Strengthening India's Military and Maritime Power 58:41 Revamping India's Education System 01:02:09 India's Path to Becoming a Superpower 01:03:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Bharatvaarta podcast, host Roshan Cariappa is joined by panelists Ruchir Sharma, Surya Kanegaonkar, and Anang Mittal to discuss the potential impact of the Trump presidency on India and the broader world. The conversation covers a range of topics, including the potential for creative diplomacy, the state of India's indigenous military technology programs, and the effects of U.S. foreign policy on India's strategic autonomy. The panelists also discuss how India can take advantage of this period to reform its internal policies and redefine its role as a regional hegemon. With insights into defense, economic policies, and the evolving geopolitical landscape, this episode offers a comprehensive look at what India might expect and how it can best prepare for the future. Topics: 00:00 Sneak peak 01:21 Introduction 02:59 Trump's Policies and Global Reactions 08:15 India's Geopolitical Maneuvering 20:24 Modi's US Visit Highlights 27:40 Negotiating with Trump 37:09 Regional Powers and India's Role 45:13 Indian Talent Exodus and Innovation Challenges 01:00:29 Protectionism and Indian Industry 01:19:52 Multilateralism and Global Organizations 01:29:45 The Role of Non-State Actors in U.S. Influence 01:35:21 Opportunities for India Amid Global Shifts 01:38:30 The Need for Bureaucratic and Policy Reforms 01:41:19 Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook

In this engaging episode of the Bharatvaarta Podcast, host Sharan is joined by Dr. Vikram Sampath to discuss his latest book on the controversial history of Haider Ali and Tipu Sultan's contrasting reigns. The conversation covers various aspects including Tipu Sultan's controversial policies, the methodological challenges of historical writing, and the nuances of presenting an impartial account in a polarized field. Dr. Sampath also shares insights into the importance of documenting contemporary lives for future historians and discusses his initiatives to support upcoming historians through the FIHCR (Foundation for Indian Historical and Cultural Research). Topics: 00:00 Introduction 01:06 Meet Dr. Vikram Sampath 01:36 The Haider and Tipu Saga 03:47 Balancing Historical Perspectives 05:23 The Craft of a Historian 05:34 Tipu Sultan's Documentation 07:21 Contemporary and Oral Sources 18:05 Comparing Haider and Tipu 26:49 Tipu's Language Policies 30:55 Tipu's Dreams and Interpretations 34:34 Toxic Masculinity and Treatment of Women 37:24 Historical Movies and Controversies 39:29 Challenges in Indian Historical Cinema 42:21 Religious Policies and Temple Grants 51:07 Role of Brahmins and Administrators 55:21 Controversial Historical Figures 57:52 Future of Historical Research 01:04:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

On this episode of the Bharatvaarta podcast, we talk to Manish Sabharwal, former independent director at the Reserve Bank of India, explores India's economic and educational reforms over the last few decades. He discusses the impact of city-based growth on GDP, the comparison between India's and China's stock market performance, and the complexities of creating mass prosperity. The discussion covers India’s reform agenda, including the significance of NEP 2020, the role of regulatory cholesterol, and the challenges posed by modern state populism. Sabharwal emphasizes the need for continuous, incremental reforms, formalization, and the crucial role of urbanization, industrialization, financialization, and human capital in ensuring sustained economic growth. He also touches upon the importance of skill development, overcoming regulatory barriers, and leveraging India’s demographic advantages and overseas diaspora to fuel future growth. Topics: 00:00 Introduction 00:29 India's Economic Transformation: Past and Future 01:40 Challenges and Reforms in India's Economic Policies 02:21 Political Freedom vs. Economic Prosperity 03:01 Fiscal and Monetary Policy: Overrated Solutions? 04:48 Populism and Its Impact on Economic Growth 05:23 The Role of Government, Private Sector, and Non-Profits 08:40 Upcoming Budget and Economic Reforms 10:49 Ease of Doing Business: Regulatory Challenges 16:05 Education vs. Employability: The Skill Gap 21:34 The Importance of English in India's Job Market 28:38 Challenges of Local Governance in India 29:19 The Rise of Bangalore as a Tech Hub 30:35 Infrastructure and Job Creation 32:26 The Future of Kirana Stores and Self-Employment 34:07 Regulatory Challenges and Economic Reforms 34:26 Unpredictability of Job Creation 35:52 Formalization and Urbanization for Economic Growth 37:42 India's Economic Potential and Global Position 46:15 Structural Reforms and Future Challenges 50:19 Leveraging India's Diaspora and Entrepreneurship 52:43 Conclusion: Seizing the Opportunity

In this episode of the Bharatvaarta podcast, we sit down with Dr. Sriram Balasubramanian, a renowned economist and author, to discuss his latest book, 'Dharmanomics.' Dr. Balasubramanian delves into the historical role of temples as economic instruments and their impact on village ecosystems in India. He further explores ancient principles of Dharma and how they can guide modern economics towards sustainable growth. The conversation includes insights into the temple-based economies, the role of culture and norms in economic decision-making, and the influence of ancient economic models on contemporary policy. This discussion is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the intersection of India's rich cultural heritage and its economic framework. 00:00 Introduction 01:12 Exploring Dharmanomics 02:10 The Concept of Dharmic Capitalism 03:48 Historical Economic Frameworks 09:28 The Importance of Scholarly Research 13:57 Temple Economy in Bharat 17:38 Temple-Based Economic Models in Southeast Asia 19:27 The Role of Temples as Financial Institutions 20:07 Redistributive Functions of Temples 21:52 Liberating Temple Economies from State Control 24:26 Sustainability in a Dharmic Economy 25:05 Sustainability and Dharmic Economics 25:36 Prime Minister's Vision and Policies 26:51 Dharmic Responsibilities and Cleanliness 28:51 Historical Economic Interactions 30:14 Role of Corporate Guilds 31:56 Chola Dynasty's Geopolitical Influence 37:18 Policy and Dharmic Economic Model 46:17 Future Projects and Dharmic Nudges 50:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Buy his book "Dharmanomics" here: https://amzn.in/d/4CAZTEB

In this episode of Bharatvaarta, Roshan talks to Saurabh Mukherjea for an in-depth discussion on India's economic prospects, the transformative impacts of political and economic policies over the last two decades, and the rising number of new DMAT accounts. They explore the key themes from Saurabh's book 'Behold the Leviathan', touching on India's macroeconomy, market investing strategies, and the socio-economic shifts impacting the nation. The conversation delves into the consequences of educational and healthcare investments, the disparity between the North and South, and the evolving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Additionally, they discuss the impact of digital public infrastructure and direct benefit transfer schemes, and the future challenges and growth potential of India's middle class. Saurabh also provides valuable investing insights, shares personal anecdotes, and reflects on the importance of adaptability in the rapidly changing economic landscape. Topics: 00:00 Sneak Peak 00:51 Introduction 01:53 Capitalism vs. Socialism in 1947 03:01 The Impact of Education and Policy Choices 05:54 Digital Public Infrastructure and Political Vision 07:40 The Rise of Women and Non-Elite Entrepreneurs 11:14 Challenges and Opportunities in the Indian Economy 17:27 Direct Benefit Transfers and Welfarism 21:58 Formalization and Access to Credit 26:02 Economic Growth and Income Inequality 34:30 Challenges to India's growth 39:30 Lessons from China and the Role of AI 46:33 Policy Interventions and Future Growth 49:39 Employment Linked Incentives (ELI) 50:37 Role of Conglomerates in India's Economy 53:17 Rise of Challenger Companies 57:23 Investing in the Indian Market 01:09:10 Principles of investing 01:18:42 Personal Insights and Reflections