The book provided a novel understanding of the role of uncertainty about intentions for a rising power to avoid attention to its advancement. The book has brought to the forefront the significance of temporal interaction in international politics.
By Middat Khan
Overview:
This article provides a discussion on the topic characteristic at the Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9) that deals with the industrial innovation and infrastructure development for its advancement, resilience and inclusiveness. It describes how all these three constituent parts are relevant in supporting global balance and economic progress as well as in the fight for most important matters affecting the world today such as poverty, injustice and ecological ill-health. The emphasis of the article is placed on the India’s accomplishment and difficulties in relation to SDG 9 with regard to the mentioned programmes, namely Bharat-mala Pari-yojana, Make in India and Digital India. It also reviews India’s increasing standing in the industrial growth, the importance of more secure structures for economic and societal cooperation, and the requirements for environmental enhancement in industry and construction. Moreover, the article discusses the place and function of MSMEs, private stakeholders, perspectives for the further development of India as well as green industrialization and digitalization.
~By Abhishek Kumar Introduction The linear “take-make-dispose” model of production and consumption has significantly contributed to resource depletion, environmental degradation, and increasing waste generation (Sharma et al., 2020; Kumar & Mehta, 2021). The Circular Economy (CE) model, by contrast, seeks to close the loop by promoting the recycling, reuse, and recovery of materials, aiming to keep resources in use for as long as possible (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2020; Singh et al., 2019). This transition can result in reducing environmental footprints while creating new economic opportunities (Bocken et al., 2016). According to the European Commission (2020), the Circular Economy Action Plan is a vital step toward achieving sustainability goals by minimizing waste and encouraging more sustainable production methods. The role of effective waste management in the CE model is critical, enabling the transformation of waste into valuable resources ( Geissdoerfer et al., 2017). Globally, these practices can generate significant economic benefits, including job creation, economic growth, and enhanced resilience (Kirchherr et al., 2018; Stahel, 2016). As countries adopt CE frameworks, understanding the synergies between waste management and CE is essential for scaling up circular practices. This paper examines the strategies and innovations that align waste management with the goals of a circular economy, with a focus on emerging technologies and global case studies (Lieder & Rashid, 2016; Van Buren et al., 2016). Circular Economy Concept 1. Circular Economy and Its Role in Waste Management: Circular economy (CE) principles are grounded in minimizing waste, maximizing the lifecycle value of products, and reducing resource consumption ( Geissdoerfer et al., 2017; Bocken et al., 2016). Waste management plays a vital role in Circular Economy, where the goal is to divert waste from landfills and transform it into reusable resources (Sharma et al., 2020). In industries such as electronics, automotive, and packaging, the design of products for longevity, repair ability, and recyclability is key to supporting CE objectives (Kumar & Mehta, 2021; Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2020). One of the most effective strategies is the implementation of closed-loop recycling systems, where products are designed with their end-of-life in mind, reducing the need for new raw materials (Van Buren et al., 2016). This approach can reduce both environmental impacts and operational costs, leading to a more sustainable economy (Singh et al., 2019; Sharma et al., 2020). 2. Technological Innovations: Advancement in technologies have been pivotal in improving waste management systems and facilitating the circular economy. Innovations such as Waste-to-Energy (WTE) technologies, including anaerobic digestion and gasification, are helping convert organic waste into bioenergy, reducing landfill dependency (Zhao et al., 2018; Kumar & Mehta, 2021). These technologies not only recover valuable resources but also generate renewable energy, contributing to the energy transition (Bocken et al., 2016). Other than this, Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) equipped with AI and automation technologies improve waste sorting processes, enhancing recycling efficiency and reducing contamination rates (Lieder & Rashid, 2016; Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2020). Smart waste management systems utilizing IoT sensors and data analytics help optimize collection routes and monitor waste streams, thus increasing operational efficiency (Sharma et al., 2020). 3. Global Case Studies: Global examples demonstrate the practical applications of CE principles in waste management. Japan’s Eco-Towns are notable for their industrial symbiosis model, which encourages industries to share by-products and reduce waste through mutual exchanges (Kirchherr et al., 2018). Similarly, Sweden has adopted a highly efficient waste management system, where over 99% of household waste is recycled or converted into energy, significantly reducing reliance on landfills (Stahel, 2016). In India, the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policy framework for plastic waste management has made strides toward reducing plastic waste through accountability measures placed on manufacturers to manage the disposal of their products (Singh et al., 2019; Sharma et al., 2020). 4. Recent Trends in Sustainable Waste Management: Recent trends indicate growing interest in urban mining, where valuable materials are recovered from e-waste and old infrastructure, reducing the need for virgin materials and promoting sustainable production (Zhao et al., 2018). Circular bioeconomy practices, particularly in the agricultural sector, are gaining momentum as agricultural and food waste are being repurposed into bio-based materials, chemicals, and fertilizers (Lieder & Rashid, 2016; Kumar & Mehta, 2021). Furthermore, Zero-Waste movements are being increasingly adopted by cities like San Francisco and Kamikatsu, Japan, which aim for near-total diversion of waste from landfills through extensive recycling and composting efforts ( Geissdoerfer et al., 2017; Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2020). 5. Policy Interventions: Policy frameworks are critical in scaling up the circular economy. The European Union’s Circular Economy Action Plan outlines measures to reduce waste, boost recycling rates, and promote sustainable consumption patterns (European Commission, 2020). The National Sword Policy in China, which bans the import of contaminated recyclable materials, has forced other countries to enhance their domestic recycling capabilities (Kirchherr et al., 2018). Policies such as these are integral to fostering a global transition toward circular systems. Conclusion: The integration of waste management practices into the circular economy offers a promising pathway to reduce environmental degradation, improve resource efficiency, and foster economic growth. By leveraging technological innovations, scaling up best practices, and promoting robust policy frameworks, the circular economy can significantly mitigate the adverse effects of waste while creating new opportunities for industries and communities. However, to realize this potential, continued efforts in collaboration, technology, and policy implementation are essential. References: Bocken, N. M. P., Short, S. W., Rana, P., & Evans, S. (2016). A literature and practice review to develop sustainable business model archetypes. Journal of Cleaner Production, 65, 42-56. Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (2020). The Circular Economy Advantage. Retrieved from https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org European Commission. (2020). Circular Economy Action Plan. Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/environment/circular-economy Geissdoerfer , M., Savaget, P., Bocken, N. M. P., & Hultink, E. J. (2017). The circular economy – A new sustainability paradigm? Journal of Cleaner Production, 143, 757-768. Kirchherr, J., Reike, D., & Hekkert, M. (2018). Conceptualizing the circular economy: An analysis of 114 definitions. Resources, Conservation and Recycling, 127, 221-232. Kumar, R., & Mehta, P. (2021). Sustainable waste management practices in India: Current trends and challenges. Waste
This powerful image highlights the growing challenge of urban waste accumulation, illustrating the pressing need for sustainable solutions. Inspired by Alappuzha’s successful decentralized waste management model, it shows how communities can take charge by implementing local composting, recycling, and waste segregation systems. Through community-driven initiatives, such as biogas plants and composting units, cities can transform waste into a valuable resource, reduce landfill dependency, and foster a cleaner, greener environment for all. Alappuzha’s model offers a blueprint for cities worldwide to tackle waste effectively and sustainably
Imagine a striking visual of an ecology city: sleek skyscrapers adorned with vertical gardens, their green facades blending seamlessly with the azure sky. Streets are alive with cyclists and solar-powered buses, while vibrant parks burst with flora and fauna. A gleaming river snakes through, mirroring the city’s balance of technology and nature—a living symbol of harmony and sustainability.
by Sanjna Senthil Kumar Introduction Trauma affects millions worldwide, with significant mental health consequences such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. Approximately 10 % of people exposed to a traumatic event develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Daskalakis et al., 2018). Conventional therapies such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) are widely used but can be insufficient for some individuals, particularly for whom verbal processing of trauma is challenging (van der Kolk, 2015). This necessitates the need to discover, and practise alternative treatments methods. In addition, it has been demonstrated that people with PTSD have memory deteriorations, specifically relating to verbal memory. (Samuelson, 2011) . In cases like these, Creative arts therapy (CAT) has emerged as an innovative and effective therapeutic approach for addressing trauma. (De Witte et al., 2021). Creative Arts Therapy for Trauma Treatment Trauma, often characterised by overwhelming emotional responses to distressing events, disrupts the brain’s capacity for memory processing and emotional regulation (van der Kolk, 2015). Traditional talk therapies, while effective for many, may not sufficiently address the needs of individuals who struggle to articulate their experiences due to trauma-induced linguistic impairments, often referred to as “speechless terror”. Western treatment protocols for psychological trauma often include recitation of narratives, despite evidence that the human brain’s storage of traumatic memories undermines verbalisation. Creative arts therapists overcome this paradox in trauma recovery through nonlinguistic communication methods (Harris, 2009). CAT offers an alternative, non-verbal pathway to healing, providing survivors with opportunities to express, process, and transform their experiences creatively. Recent advancements in neuroscience and trauma therapy have highlighted the value of CAT, particularly in its ability to activate brain regions associated with sensory processing, emotional regulation, and memory reorganisation (Malchiodi, 2020). In culturally diverse settings, including India, CAT has proven to be adaptable, integrating indigenous art forms to create meaningful and relevant interventions. Trauma: A Global and Indian Perspective Trauma exerts profound effects on the mind and body, impairing emotional stability, cognitive functioning, and social relationships. An estimated 3.9% of the world population has had post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at some stage in their lives. Up to 40% of people with PTSD recover within one year. Whilst there are many effective treatments for PTSD, only 1 in 4 people with PTSD in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) report seeking any form of treatment. Barriers to care include lack of awareness that PTSD can be treated, lack of availability of mental health services, social stigma and lack of trained mental health care providers (World Health Organization: WHO, 2024). Moreover, conventional therapies such as cognitive-behavioural therapy focus on verbal articulation of trauma. Yet this approach can be challenging for individuals whose traumatic experiences have disrupted the brain’s linguistic and cognitive processing abilities (van der Kolk, 2015). In India, trauma emerges from unique sociocultural and systemic factors. High rates of domestic violence, communal violence, and displacement due to natural disasters or conflicts disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including women, children, and marginalised communities (Jhaveri, 2020). Stigma surrounding mental health exacerbates the challenge, limiting access to traditional mental health care. Against this backdrop, CAT provides a culturally sensitive and accessible alternative by integrating local art forms such as rangoli, folk music, and traditional dance into therapeutic practices, fostering greater engagement and healing (Banerjee, 2024). Mechanisms of Creative Arts Therapy in Trauma Recovery Creative Arts Therapy engages non-verbal modes of expression, enabling trauma survivors to process their experiences without reliance on language alone. By tapping into the brain’s right hemisphere associated with creativity and sensory processing, CAT facilitates emotional expression and memory reorganisation. Neuroscience research has demonstrated that CAT activates neural pathways involved in trauma resolution, supporting emotional regulation and resilience (Hass-Cohen et al., 2018). Art Therapy Art therapy is one of the most widely recognized modalities of CAT, utilising visual expression to externalise trauma and emotions. Creating symbolic representations of distress allows individuals to gain distance from their experiences, fostering a sense of control and safety (Hass-Cohen et al., 2018). A study by Stuckey and Nobel (2010) found that trauma survivors engaging in art therapy experienced significant reductions in anxiety and depressive symptoms. Similarly, Chapman et al. (2001) observed that survivors of interpersonal trauma reported heightened resilience after participating in structured art therapy. Art therapy allows for the creation of symbolic representations of trauma, which research suggests can foster emotional regulation and provide distance from distressing experiences (Hass-Cohen & Carr, 2008; Schouten et al., 2014). In Sri Lanka art therapy workshops for tsunami survivors revealed significant reductions in PTSD symptoms among children, who used drawing to express grief and fear (Chilcote, 2007). A 4-week art therapy intervention was implemented at a local school for 113 children ages 5 to 13. Art therapy was found to be an effective cross cultural intervention for these young tsunami survivors. Music Therapy Music therapy employs rhythm, melody, and harmony to regulate emotions, reduce stress, and foster connection. Research indicates that music therapy aids in emotional regulation and stress reduction, which are essential for trauma recovery (Bensimon et al., 2008 ; Carr et al., 2011). Music therapy also fosters relaxation and lowers cortisol levels, helping patients manage symptoms of hypervigilance and anxiety (Silverman, 2003). Traditional Indian instruments like the sitar and tabla have been successfully integrated into therapeutic sessions, providing survivors with culturally resonant ways to engage in healing (Sundar, 2007). Dance/Movement Therapy Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT) emphasises bodily expression to process trauma held somatically. Trauma often manifests in physical symptoms, such as muscle tension and chronic pain, which DMT addresses by reconnecting individuals with their bodies and fostering a sense of agency (Tomaszewski et al., 2023). Dance/movement therapy, which emphasises physical expression, helps individuals process trauma held in the body, a phenomenon often referred to as “somatic memory” (Bujorbarua, 2020). Individuals therefore experience increased bodily awareness and reduced somatic symptoms related to trauma (Steinberg-Oren et al., 2016). In India, Bharatanatyam-based dance therapy programs for survivors of abuse have been effective in reducing dissociation and improving self-esteem, as movement encourages survivors to reclaim their physical presence and autonomy. Bharatanatyam can
Empowering rural communities with digital learning unlocks the potential and provide a better opportunity for holistic development. In this research article, we tried to emphasize the significance of digital learning, various government initiatives, major challenges, and the key prospect of digital literacy in rural India. With the vision of the Digital India mission, we also shed light upon productive solutions that may lead to a greater change with regard to digitalization in rural India.
~By Abhishek Kumar Introduction Carbon Trading represents a market-oriented mechanism for mitigating climate change, facilitating the exchange of carbon credits to control greenhouse gas emissions. Initially introduced under the Kyoto Protocol, it has become a central instrument in international climate policy, enabling countries and organizations to achieve emission reduction targets with greater efficiency (Tietenberg, 2006). It’s key models include cap-and-trade and carbon offset programs, which incentivize emission reductions through market mechanisms (Ellerman et al., 2014). With the Paris Agreement, carbon markets have expanded, supporting global decarbonization efforts and promoting cost-effective pathways to a low-carbon economy (UNFCCC, 2015; Sterner, 2003; World Bank, 2020). Carbon Trading Concept Carbon Trading, also known as emissions trading, is a market-based approach to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. It allows countries or organizations with high emissions to buy “carbon credits” from those with low emissions, aiming to limit overall emissions in line with climate goals. This system was popularized under the Kyoto Protocol and is now also integral to the Paris Agreement’s framework. Mechanics of Carbon Trading: The fundamental concept of carbon trading lies in creating a cap-and-trade system. Regulators set a cap on total emissions, and entities are given or can purchase allowances representing the right to emit a specific amount of CO₂. Those who reduce their emissions below their allowance can sell excess credits, incentivizing low-emission practices. Over time, the cap is lowered, which is designed to gradually reduce emissions across the board (World Bank, 2021). Carbon Markets are generally divided into two main types: 1. Compliance Markets: Market Created through regulatory policies like the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), these markets require participation from industries with high emissions, such as energy and manufacturing sectors. 2. Voluntary Markets: These markets are driven by companies or individuals seeking to lower their carbon footprint beyond legal requirements. Voluntary markets have been expanding as organizations commit to climate goals to showcase their dedication to environmental sustainability. Benefits and Criticisms: Carbon trading incentivizes emission reductions, enables cost-effective achievement of climate goals, and fosters investment in cleaner technologies. However, it faces criticism for potentially allowing wealthy companies or nations to avoid genuine reductions by purchasing offsets, sometimes resulting in insufficient action toward lowering actual emissions (UNFCCC, 2022). Overview of Kyoto Protocol: The Kyoto Protocol, adopted in 1997 and entered into force in 2005, was the first significant international treaty aiming to combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. It established legally binding targets for industrialized nations (also known as Annex I countries) to reduce their emissions by an average of 5% below 1990 levels over the commitment period from 2008 to 2012 (UNFCCC, 1998). Mechanisms of the Kyoto Protocol: The Kyoto Protocol introduced several innovative mechanisms to assist countries in meeting their emission reduction targets: 1. Emission Trading: Allowed countries with surplus emission allowances to sell these to countries that exceeded their targets, forming the foundation for the carbon trading market. 2. Clean Development Mechanism (CDM): Enabled developed countries to invest in emission reduction projects in developing nations, earning certified emission reductions (CERs) that counted toward their targets. 3. Joint Implementation (JI): Allowed industrialized countries to earn emission reduction units (ERUs) by investing in projects that reduced emissions in other industrialized countries. These mechanisms provided flexibility and cost-effective solutions, encouraging international cooperation on climate action (World Bank, 2021). Second Commitment Period and Limitations: In 2012, the Doha Amendment established a second commitment period (2013–2020) with revised targets, although this amendment faced ratification challenges, limiting its global influence. Moreover, critics noted that the protocol lacked enforcement mechanisms and exempted developing nations, resulting in some major emitters not being bound by reductions (Grubb et al., 2020). Transition to the Paris Agreement: The Kyoto Protocol paved the way for the Paris Agreement in 2015, which expanded the scope to include commitments from all countries, not just industrialized nations. The Paris Agreement’s flexible structure addressed some limitations of the Kyoto Protocol, making it more inclusive and globally focused on long-term climate targets. Technologies Used in Carbon Trading Market 1. Blockchain Technology is increasingly being adopted in carbon trading to enhance transparency, efficiency, and security. By providing a decentralized ledger system, blockchain enables verifiable and tamper-proof tracking of carbon credits, reducing the risks of fraud and double-counting and allowing a seamless transfer of credits between buyers and sellers ( Treiblmaier & Beck, 2019). Key Benefits of Blockchain in Carbon Trading: • Transparency and Traceability: Blockchain creates an immutable record of transactions, ensuring each carbon credit’s origin, ownership, and transfer history are transparent. This addresses common issues in carbon markets, such as double-counting credits, by ensuring that each credit is unique and only transferred once (Broek et al., 2019). • Efficiency and Cost Reduction: Traditional carbon credit verification and trading processes can be time-consuming and costly. Blockchain streamlines this by enabling peer-to-peer transactions without intermediaries, reducing both administrative costs and transaction times. • Enhanced Trust and Credibility: With blockchain’s decentralized nature, each participant in the network has access to the same information, which builds trust among stakeholders, including companies, governments, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Blockchain also makes it easier to integrate carbon markets with corporate sustainability goals, improving the reliability of claims about carbon neutrality or reduction efforts (Radhakrishnan et al., 2020). • Smart Contracts for Automation: Blockchain supports the use of smart contracts, self-executing contracts with terms directly written into code. In carbon trading, smart contracts can automatically validate, settle, and enforce carbon credit trades when pre-defined conditions are met, simplifying processes like compliance verification (Loh et al., 2021). Emerging Use Cases and Platforms: Several blockchain-based carbon trading platforms have emerged, including IBM’s Carbon Credit Management System and initiatives like Veridium and Climate trade. These platforms aim to create more accessible, transparent, and reliable carbon markets, potentially reaching broader participation by both large corporations and individual investors. Challenges and Future Prospects: Despite its benefits, blockchain in carbon trading faces challenges such as scalability, regulatory uncertainty, and energy consumption in blockchain networks. However, ongoing research and technological advancements may address
International Organisations can work only if member states are willing to devote themselves for the greater cause. But as Realists suggest, states are driven by their national interest. Still, International Organizations have worked vigorously for conflict resolution with their limited resources.
India’s renewable energy transformation is reshaping daily life through accessible and impactful innovations. With rooftop solar panels supported by initiatives like the National Solar Mission, households can generate clean energy, cut electricity costs, and reduce emissions. Electric vehicles, now more affordable thanks to the FAME scheme, are changing urban transport dynamics. In rural areas, community microgrids provide reliable power in regions prone to outages. Government policies and incentives have spurred nationwide adoption, positioning India as a global leader in renewables. As new technologies emerge, renewable energy will increasingly integrate into Indian life, driving a cleaner, sustainable future.