Politics and society are interconnected fields that shape the way people live, govern, and interact with one another. Politics refers to the activities, actions, and policies used to gain and hold power in a government or to influence the government. Society, on the other hand, encompasses the collective group of individuals living together in a community, sharing common customs, values, and institutions.
A modest clay tablet preserves a snapshot of life in the Ur III dynasty. It records messengers’ rations—soup, fish, and mutton—alongside their missions. From carrying royal offerings to capturing fugitive workers, these couriers kept the empire connected. Four millennia later, the tablet speaks across time, showing the ingenuity, discipline, and human heartbeat behind one of history’s earliest bureaucracies.
We no longer live in the Information Age—we live in the Narrative Age, where stories, not statistics, define truth. From post-truth politics to Zohnerism’s sly manipulations, today’s reality is served like a dish—seasoned with emotion, simmered in belief, and shared across the grand kitchen of social media. The question isn’t just what’s true, but who’s cooking the story—and why?
Cholera is a deadly disease often overlooked in global health agendas, overshadowed by issues like HIV/AIDS and malaria. Indian scientists Dr. Shambhunath De and Dr. Dilip Mahalanabis made crucial contributions to cholera treatment, yet remain largely unrecognized. Dr. De identified the cholera toxin's role in causing death, while Dr. Mahalanabis demonstrated the effectiveness of oral rehydration therapy during a crisis. Their legacies deserve acknowledgment and commemoration in India, highlighting their profound impact on global health.
The concept of the "dictatorship of the proletariat," rooted in Marxist theory, envisions a temporary political ascendancy of the working class to dismantle capitalist structures. However, historical attempts in the 20th century led to authoritarian regimes, betraying its liberatory intent. Today, the idea could be reimagined through decentralized democratic practices and technology, addressing past failures while empowering workers in an increasingly unequal world.
The response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people, spurred Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, with Indian forces striking nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and PoK. This operation symbolized pride and justice while addressing ongoing threats. Despite initial relief, heightened tensions followed, prompting fears of escalation and a longing for lasting safety measures, as citizens yearn for a secure future free from terrorism.
Migration has been a crucial part of human history, shaping civilizations while often facing hostility. Despite their significant contributions to economies, migrants are frequently scapegoated for societal issues. The complexities of migration include illegal practices driven by desperation, requiring balanced approaches that respect human rights. Ultimately, fostering cultural exchange and addressing root causes will create a world where migration is embraced rather than resisted, benefiting all communities involved.
In 2009, a work trip from Baghdad to Beirut unexpectedly became a 20-hour journey involving a stop in Damascus. The rich history of Damascus contrasts with the current turmoil in Syria, highlighting the erosion of cultural identity amid conflict. On Human Rights Day, the need for peace and dignity for all is emphasized.
Faith provides comfort and purpose but can become a destructive force when distorted by hatred, as seen in the tragic killings of Hindus in Bangladesh. Such violence threatens communal harmony and humanity. Governments and the international community must act decisively to protect minorities, promote inclusivity, and foster a culture of peace.
Nude protests have historically served as a powerful means for women to reclaim autonomy and challenge oppression. A recent protest in Iran highlighted this, with a student defying mandatory hijab laws, igniting global discourse on women's rights. Various global instances demonstrate the impact of these acts, compelling society to confront issues of control and freedom.
In 1887, Susanna Salter became the first female mayor in the United States after a men's prank intended to mock women’s political involvement backfired. Her unexpected victory in Argonia symbolized a significant breakthrough for women in politics, inspiring future generations and marking a pivotal moment in the women's suffrage movement.
