April 2025 – Page 2 – Air Marshal's Perspective

April 21, 2025April 21, 2025

655: ROLE OF GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION AND PEACE-BUILDING

Presented my paper at the seminar at Dayananda Sagar University, Bangalore on 21 Apr 25.

In an increasingly interconnected world, conflicts are no longer confined to national borders. The impact of wars, social unrest, and political disputes extends beyond individual nations, affecting global security, economic stability, and human rights. In this context, global citizenship emerges as a tool and an empowering force for conflict resolution and peacebuilding. Regardless of nationality, global citizens recognise their shared responsibility in fostering dialogue, promoting human rights, and encouraging sustainable peace. This article explores global citizenship’s critical and empowering role in resolving conflicts and building a more harmonious world.

Understanding Global Citizenship. Global citizenship refers to an awareness of the interconnectedness of people across national, cultural, and economic divides. It involves recognising shared responsibilities for global issues, advocating for human rights, and engaging in social activism to create a more just and peaceful world. Unlike traditional citizenship, which is tied to nationality, global citizenship transcends borders and emphasises collective action for global challenges, including conflict resolution and peacebuilding.

Causes of Conflict in the Modern World

To understand the role of global citizenship in conflict resolution, it is essential to analyse the root causes of conflicts. Common factors include:-

Ethnic, Religious, and Cultural Divisions. Deep-seated historical grievances and prejudices often create tensions, leading to violent clashes: nationalist ideologies, sectarianism, and identity-based discrimination further fuel societal divisions and unrest.

Economic Disparities. Widespread poverty, unemployment, and unequal distribution of resources generate frustration and social unrest. Marginalised communities may resort to protests or violence when they lack access to economic opportunities.

Political Instability. Corrupt governance, authoritarian regimes, and weak democratic institutions undermine trust in leadership. This instability can lead to civil wars, insurgencies, or military coups, disrupting peace and security.

Human Rights Violations. Systemic discrimination, oppression, and inequality provoke resistance movements and uprisings. Repressive regimes that curtail freedoms often face mass protests, which can escalate into violent conflicts.

Climate Change and Resource Scarcity. Environmental degradation leads to competition for essential resources like water and arable land. Disputes over shrinking resources often escalate into violent territorial or inter-communal conflicts.

Geopolitical Power Struggles. Superpower rivalries and proxy wars intensify global instability. Nations engage in conflicts to assert dominance, often using smaller states as battlegrounds for ideological and strategic competition.

The Role of Global Citizenship in Conflict Resolution

By addressing Conflict through Global Citizenship, promoting education, advocacy, and cross-cultural dialogue, global citizens can help bridge divides. Supporting diplomacy and sustainable policies fosters long-term peace and conflict resolution.

Promoting Cross-Cultural Understanding and Tolerance. One fundamental way global citizenship aids conflict resolution is by promoting tolerance and intercultural dialogue. Many conflicts arise from misunderstandings, stereotypes, and historical grievances. Through global education initiatives, international exchange programs, and cultural diplomacy, global citizens help bridge divides and encourage mutual respect.

Advocating for Human Rights and Social Justice. Global citizens are crucial in advocating for human rights and challenging injustices contributing to conflict. Organisations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch raise awareness of human rights abuses and pressure governments and institutions to uphold international norms. By amplifying the voices of marginalised communities, global citizens not only help address the grievances that often lead to conflict but also foster a sense of empathy and compassion in the global community.

Strengthening International Institutions and Multilateral Cooperation. Global governance institutions, such as the United Nations (UN), the International Criminal Court (ICC), and regional organisations like the African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU), play a critical role in conflict resolution. Global citizens support these institutions by advocating for international treaties, peacekeeping missions, and diplomatic initiatives. Civil society groups, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and grassroots activists engage with these institutions to ensure their effectiveness in maintaining global peace.

Engaging in Grassroots Peace Initiatives. While governments and international bodies play a significant role in conflict resolution, local peacebuilding efforts are equally important. Community-based reconciliation programs, interfaith dialogues, and nonviolent resistance movements help prevent and mitigate conflicts at the local level. Global citizens contribute to these efforts by participating in peace education programs, volunteering in conflict-affected regions, and supporting initiatives that empower local peacebuilders. This emphasis on grassroots initiatives is designed to make the audience feel engaged and involved in the peacebuilding process.

Economic Justice and Sustainable Development. Economic inequalities and resource scarcity are major drivers of conflict. Global citizens support fair trade policies, ethical business practices, and sustainable development initiatives that reduce economic disparities. Programs such as microfinance, impact investing, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects create economic opportunities and reduce tensions in conflict-prone areas.

Diplomacy and Conflict Mediation. Diplomatic efforts and mediation are crucial in resolving disputes before they escalate into violence. International organisations, such as the UN and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), often mediate conflicts between nations and communities. Global citizens can engage in diplomatic efforts by supporting negotiation processes, promoting dialogue-based solutions, and advocating peaceful conflict resolution strategies.

Harnessing Technology for Peacebuilding. Technology and social media have become powerful tools for conflict resolution and peace advocacy. Online platforms enable global citizens to mobilise support for peace initiatives, share real-time information about conflicts, and counter misinformation. Initiatives like digital storytelling, peace-focused online campaigns, and artificial intelligence (AI) for conflict prediction have revolutionised peacebuilding efforts worldwide.

Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Reconciliation. After conflicts subside, rebuilding societies and fostering reconciliation is essential for lasting peace. Global citizens support post-conflict reconstruction efforts by participating in humanitarian aid projects, advocating for truth and reconciliation commissions, and ensuring war-torn regions receive the necessary resources for rebuilding. Programs that reintegrate former combatants into society promote mental health support for war victims and establish memorials to acknowledge past atrocities to help prevent the recurrence of conflicts.

Case Studies: Global Citizenship in Action

The Role of Global Citizens in the South African Reconciliation Process. After decades of apartheid, South Africa’s transition to democracy was facilitated by global advocacy, grassroots activism, and international diplomatic pressure. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) played a significant role in addressing past injustices. Global citizens contributed to this process by supporting anti-apartheid movements, engaging in international sanctions against the regime, and promoting reconciliation initiatives.

The Syrian Refugee Crisis and Global Solidarity. The Syrian civil war displaced millions of people, creating one of the largest refugee crises in modern history. Global citizens responded by advocating for humanitarian assistance, volunteering in refugee camps, and pressuring governments to provide asylum and support. Organisations like the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and grassroots initiatives helped resettle displaced communities and provide essential services.

The Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland. The Good Friday Agreement, which ended decades of conflict in Northern Ireland, was facilitated by diplomatic negotiations, public engagement, and peacebuilding efforts. International mediators, civil society organisations, and global advocacy groups were crucial in fostering dialogue between conflicting parties. The success of this agreement demonstrates the power of global citizenship in supporting diplomatic and nonviolent conflict resolution.

Challenges to Global Citizenship in Conflict Resolution

While global citizenship plays a crucial role in peacebuilding, it faces several challenges:

Political Resistance. Many governments view global governance mechanisms as threats to national sovereignty and resist international cooperation. Nationalist policies often prioritise domestic interests over global peace efforts, making it difficult to establish common frameworks for conflict resolution. This resistance weakens institutions like the United Nations, limiting their effectiveness in peacebuilding.

Misinformation and Propaganda. The rapid spread of fake news and biased narratives distorts public perception of conflicts, fueling divisions. Governments and interest groups manipulate information to justify aggressive policies, making it harder to foster mutual understanding. Misinformation can erode trust in diplomatic efforts and escalate tensions rather than promote peaceful solutions.

Economic and Political Interests. Nations frequently prioritise economic and strategic interests over peace initiatives, leading to prolonged conflicts. Arms trade, control over resources, and geopolitical rivalries often overshadow humanitarian concerns. Countries may exploit conflicts for economic gain or to expand their influence, undermining global citizenship’s role in promoting stability.

Limited Resources for Peacebuilding. Many peace initiatives suffer from inadequate funding and institutional backing, limiting their impact. Due to financial constraints, international organisations and grassroots movements struggle to sustain long-term peace efforts. Mediation, humanitarian aid, and educational programs cannot effectively address the root causes of conflicts without sufficient support.

Despite these challenges, global citizenship remains vital in fostering peace through advocacy, dialogue, and education. By promoting cross-cultural understanding and supporting grassroots initiatives, individuals and organisations can counter misinformation, pressure governments for ethical policies, and contribute to building a more just and peaceful world.

Conclusion

In an era of globalisation, conflict resolution and peacebuilding require collective action beyond national boundaries. Through education, activism, diplomacy, and economic justice, global citizens play an essential role in addressing the root causes of conflict and fostering lasting peace. By promoting cross-cultural understanding, supporting international institutions, engaging in grassroots initiatives, and leveraging technology for peace, individuals and communities worldwide can contribute to a more just, peaceful, and interconnected world. The future of global conflict resolution depends on global citizens’ commitment to upholding principles of justice, human rights, and sustainable development.

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Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

References:-

Benhabib, Seyla. “The End of Sovereignty? Global Citizenship and Democratic Attachments.” Public Culture, vol. 19, no. 3, 2007, pp. 27-39.

Keck, Margaret E., and Sikkink, Kathryn. “Transnational Advocacy Networks in International Politics.” International Organization, vol. 48, no. 4, 1998, pp. 99-120.

Richmond, Oliver P. “The Dilemmas of Peacebuilding: The Liberal Peace and Beyond.” International Peacekeeping, vol. 16, no. 5, 2009, pp. 74-97.

Tarrow, Sidney. “The New Transnational Activism.” Cambridge University Press, 2005, pp. 45-72.

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Human Development Report 2020: The Next Frontier – Human Development and the Anthropocene. New York: UNDP, 2020.

UNESCO. Global Citizenship Education: Preparing Learners for the Challenges of the 21st Century. Paris: UNESCO, 2015.

World Economic Forum. The Future of Global Governance: Strengthening Multilateralism for Sustainable Peace. Geneva: WEF, 2019.

Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Global Order 2025: The Future of International Cooperation. Washington, D.C.: Carnegie Endowment, 2018.

Amnesty International. Annual Report on Human Rights and Global Justice 2022. London: Amnesty International, 2022.

United Nations Peacekeeping. “The Role of UN Peacekeepers in Conflict Resolution.”

Oxfam International. The Role of Civil Society in Peacebuilding. Oxfam, 2021.

The Elders. “A Call for Ethical Leadership in Global Governance.” The Elders, 2022.

Appiah, Kwame Anthony. Cosmopolitanism: Ethics in a World of Strangers. New York: W.W. Norton & Company, 2006.

Falk, Richard. On Humane Governance: Toward a New Global Politics. Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania State University Press, 1995.

Kaldor, Mary. New and Old Wars: Organized Violence in a Global Era. Cambridge: Polity Press, 2012.
Sen, Amartya. Identity and Violence: The Illusion of Destiny. New York: W.W. Norton & Company, 2006.

April 20, 2025April 20, 2025

654: A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS.

INDIA RISING – % WISE

NET VALUE – STILL MILES TO GO

AREA MATTERS

EARTH SURROUNDED OR SHROUDED

AMOUNT OF METAL IN SPACE

STILL HOLDING THE DUBIOUS RECORD

HOPE IT CHANGES SOON

RANKING BOOSTS EGO

BUT RATING PAINTS A DIFFERENT PICTURE

QUANTITY VIS-A-VIS QUALITY

KEEPS GETTING REVIEWED AND PUSHED BACK

YEAR AFTER YEAR

CHALLENGING DOLLAR

HOW EASY OR DIFFICULT?

AGEING DRAGON

INDIA ON WHEELS

In Lighter Vein

MESSAGE TO ZELENSKY

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April 19, 2025

653:INDIAN SPACE PROGRAM’S HISTORIC LEAP: GROUP CAPTAIN SHUBHANSHU SHUKLA SET TO EMBARK ON A LANDMARK JOURNEY TO THE SPACE STATION

My Article published on The EuraisianTimes website on 19 Apr 25.

Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will become the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS) as part of Axiom Space’s Ax-4 mission, launching no earlier than May 29, 2025, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft. Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair is his backup. Shukla, a test pilot and Gaganyaan mission astronaut-designate, will serve as the mission pilot for the 14–21-day mission, commanded by former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, with mission specialists Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski (Poland) and Tibor Kapu (Hungary).

Shukla will conduct seven scientific experiments, including studies on muscle loss, microgravity screen time effects, and bio-farming, supporting ISRO’s Gaganyaan research. He will also promote Indian culture by carrying artefacts and practising yoga on the ISS. The Ax-4 mission, a collaboration between NASA, Axiom Space, and ISRO, includes 60 experiments from 31 countries. This historic mission, India’s first astronaut trip to the ISS and the second Indian in space since Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 Soyuz mission, highlights India’s rising prominence in global space exploration.

Established in 1969, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has transformed India into a global space powerhouse. From humble beginnings with sounding rockets to executing complex interplanetary missions, ISRO’s journey reflects a blend of scientific excellence, frugal engineering, and ambitious vision.

The Indian Space Program: A Journey of Innovation and Ambition

Origins and Early Development. India’s space program began under the visionary leadership of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, who recognised space technology’s potential to address national challenges like communication, education, and resource management. The Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR), formed in 1962, laid the groundwork for ISRO. The first significant milestone was the launch of the Nike-Apache sounding rocket from Thumba in 1963, marking India’s entry into space research. ISRO’s early focus was on developing indigenous satellite and launch vehicle technologies. The launch of Aryabhata, India’s first satellite, in 1975 aboard a Soviet rocket, was a pivotal moment. By 1980, ISRO achieved a breakthrough with successfully launching the Rohini satellite using the Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-3), making India the sixth nation capable of independently launching satellites.

Building Capabilities. In the 1980s, ISRO developed the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), a versatile rocket that became the backbone of India’s space program. The PSLV’s first successful launch in 1994 enabled India to place satellites in polar and geosynchronous orbits, supporting applications like remote sensing and communication. The INSAT series, starting with INSAT-1A in 1982, revolutionised telecommunications, television broadcasting, and weather forecasting, bridging India’s rural-urban divide. In the 1990s, ISRO expanded its Earth observation capabilities with the Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) satellite series. These satellites provided critical agriculture, disaster management, and urban planning data. The program’s emphasis on self-reliance led to developing the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), designed to carry heavier payloads into geostationary orbits. Despite initial setbacks, the GSLV’s success in the 2000s bolstered India’s space ambitions.

Breakthroughs in the 21st Century. The 21st century marked a turning point for ISRO, with missions that showcased its technological prowess and global competitiveness. The Chandrayaan-1 mission, launched in 2008, was India’s first lunar probe. It made headlines with the discovery of water molecules on the Moon’s surface, a finding confirmed by its Moon Impact Probe. This mission, costing just $80 million, exemplified ISRO’s cost-effective approach, earning global acclaim. In 2013, ISRO achieved another milestone with the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan), making India the first Asian nation to reach Martian orbit and the first globally to succeed on its maiden attempt. Mangalyaan, developed at a modest $74 million, demonstrated ISRO’s ability to deliver high-impact science on a lean budget. The mission’s longevity, with the orbiter still operational in 2025, underscores ISRO’s engineering excellence. ISRO’s Chandrayaan-2 mission 2019 aimed to soft-land a rover on the Moon’s South Pole. Although the Vikram lander crashed, the orbiter continues to provide valuable lunar data. The mission showcased India’s growing ambition to tackle complex challenges. In 2023, Chandrayaan-3 achieved a historic soft landing near the lunar South Pole, making India the fourth nation to land on the Moon and the first to explore this region. The Pragyan rover’s findings on lunar soil composition have added to global lunar science.

Societal Impact and Applications

ISRO’s space program extends beyond scientific exploration, delivering tangible benefits to Indian society. The INSAT and GSAT series have enabled tele-education and telemedicine, reaching remote areas with limited infrastructure. The Navic navigation system, operational since 2018, provides precise positioning services, enhancing transportation, agriculture, and defence sectors.

ISRO’s remote sensing satellites support disaster management by monitoring cyclones, floods, and droughts. The Cartosat and Resourcesat series aid in urban planning, water resource management, and crop forecasting, contributing to food security. ISRO’s data-sharing initiatives with global agencies also strengthen international cooperation in climate monitoring and disaster response.

The space program has spurred economic growth by fostering a domestic space industry. Companies like Antrix Corporation, ISRO’s commercial arm, and private startups like Skyroot Aerospace and Agnikul Cosmos are expanding India’s space ecosystem. ISRO’s technology transfers have enabled healthcare and renewable energy innovations, amplifying its socioeconomic impact.

Challenges

Despite its Successes, ISRO faces challenges. Limited funding, with a 2024-25 budget of approximately $1.6 billion, constrains its ability to scale ambitious projects compared to NASA ($25 billion) or China’s space program. Human spaceflight, a key frontier, has progressed slowly. The Gaganyaan mission, aiming to send Indian astronauts to low Earth orbit, faced delays due to technical complexities and the COVID-19 pandemic but is now targeted for 2026.

ISRO’s reliance on government funding limits its agility in a rapidly commercialising global space sector. While private sector participation grows, regulatory hurdles and bureaucratic processes hinder faster integration. Critics also point to occasional mission failures, like the GSLV’s early setbacks or Chandrayaan-2’s partial success, as areas needing improvement. However, ISRO’s ability to learn from failures and deliver subsequent successes reflects its resilience.

Future Prospects

ISRO’s roadmap is ambitious, with plans to solidify India’s position in global space exploration. The Gaganyaan mission will mark India’s entry into human spaceflight, with four astronauts training in collaboration with international partners. The Aditya-L1 solar observatory, launched in 2023, is studying the Sun’s corona, contributing to space weather forecasting. Chandrayaan-4, planned for 2028, aims to retrieve lunar samples, while a Venus orbiter mission is under development.

ISRO is also advancing its launch capabilities. The Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) targets the growing demand for small satellite launches, while the Next-Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV) will support heavier payloads, including space station modules. ISRO’s proposed Bharatiya Antariksh Station (Indian Space Station) by 2035 aligns with global trends in space infrastructure.

International collaboration is a priority, with ISRO partnering with NASA, ESA, and JAXA on missions like NISAR, a joint Earth-observation satellite. ISRO’s cost-effective model positions it as a preferred partner for emerging space nations and commercial entities. To stay competitive, the organisation also explores reusable launch vehicles and space robotics.

Conclusion

The Indian space program, driven by ISRO’s ingenuity and vision, has evolved from a nascent initiative to a global partner in space exploration. Its achievements, from lunar landings to interplanetary missions, reflect a commitment to scientific discovery and societal progress. While challenges like funding and commercialisation persist, ISRO’s track record of overcoming obstacles bodes well for its future.

As India aims for human spaceflight, a space station, and deeper planetary exploration, ISRO’s frugal yet impactful approach will continue to inspire. The program advances India’s technological capabilities and positions it as a key player in shaping the future of global space exploration, proving that ambition and innovation can transcend resource constraints.

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From Nike-Apache To Space Station – Indian Astronaut’s Landmark ISS Visit In May-End Another Big Feat For ISRO

References and credits

To all the online sites and channels.

Pics Courtesy: Internet

Disclaimer:

References:-

Times Now. (2025, April 18). Who Is Shubhanshu Shukla? Indian Astronaut-designate Group Captain to Fly to International Space Station In May.

ET Now. (2025, April 18). This is a major step for India’s space journey! Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will travel to space next month, the Modi government confirmed.

NDTV. (2025, April 18). Indian Astronaut-Designate Shubhanshu Shukla To Fly To Space Station in May.

The Times of India. (2025, April 18). An international space mission carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is set to fly in May.

India Today. (2025, April 11). India’s Shubhanshu Shukla will study how screen time affects the human brain in space.

Republic World. (2025, April 2). IAF’s Shubhanshu Shukla to Become First Indian Astronaut Aboard SpaceX Dragon.

Chandrayaan Mission Pages: Detailed mission objectives, payloads, and outcomes for Chandrayaan-1, -2, and -3. Accessible via ISRO’s mission-specific portals: Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3.

Mishra, S. K. (2020): Indian Space Program: Evolution, Achievements, and Challenges. Journal of Space Exploration, 9(2), 45-56. A peer-reviewed article analysing ISRO’s growth and cost-effective strategies.

Narayanan, N. (2017): The Making of ISRO: Vikram Sarabhai’s Vision. HarperCollins India. A comprehensive book on the origins of ISRO and Sarabhai’s contributions.

The Hindu (August 24, 2023): “India Becomes First Nation to Land Near Lunar South Pole with Chandrayaan-3.” News article covering the historic Chandrayaan-3 landing.

Lele, A. (2014): Mission Mars: India’s Quest for the Red Planet. Springer. A detailed account of the Mars Orbiter Mission’s development and significance.

SpaceNews (March 15, 2025): “India Approves Chandrayaan-5 and LUPEX Mission with JAXA.” Reports on recent mission approvals and international collaborations.

ISRO Annual Report 2024-25: Outlines budget, ongoing projects, and commercial activities of Antrix Corporation. Available at: ISRO Annual Reports.

Bagla, P., & Menon, V. (2019): Reach for the Stars: The Evolution of India’s Space Programme. Bloomsbury India. A book detailing ISRO’s societal impacts and technological milestones.

NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) Mission: Information on ISRO’s collaboration with NASA. Available at: nisar.jpl.nasa.gov.