The document summarizes the decline of the kingdom of Paradasia into Purgatoria due to a policy of strict inbreeding over several generations instituted by a ruler. This led to a condition called inbreeding depression, which reduced genetic variation and fitness of the population. The people of Purgatoria (Purgs) underwent an extensive indoctrination process from a young age to conform to their subservient roles and always obey their superiors and systems of control. Over time, the isolated and inbred population of Purgatoria declined due to the effects of inbreeding depression until they ceased to exist.
An Irreverent Analysis of India's Purgocracy in 2025 ADShantanu Basu
1. The document describes the decline of the kingdom of Paradasia into the realm of Purgatoria over centuries, as rulers increasingly mandated inbreeding to preserve racial purity. This led to issues of inbreeding depression among the Purgs people.
2. It details how the Purgs people were broken in and domesticated through a process of unlearning and relearning, controlled by figures like Vetus Fogey and technological programs. Their jobs and lives became narrowly focused.
3. The Purgs developed rigid social hierarchies and norms, focusing inward on gossip and metrics like BMI. Super Purgs enjoyed privileges while enforcing strict control over others through public shaming and perpetual punishment for any transgressions.
The document summarizes the campaign strategies of major political parties in India's 2014 general election. It states that the BJP ran a highly organized, technologically advanced campaign led by Narendra Modi that emphasized development, in stark contrast to the disorganized and negative campaign of the Congress party that focused on attacking Modi rather than promoting their own achievements. The BJP's campaign was able to map constituencies, set up thousands of local offices, and use tools like 3D broadcasts of Modi's speeches to reach large audiences, while the Congress relied on inexperienced spokespeople and personal attacks against Modi.
The document discusses reforms that the Seventh Central Pay Commission should recommend. It argues that the SCPC should open senior government posts to public applications on contract basis rather than relying on the civil service system. It also recommends introducing performance-based assessments, increasing accountability of senior officials, standardizing recruitment and promotion rules, and merging several financial services into a new Indian Financial Service to improve efficiency. The key aim of the proposed reforms is to reduce political patronage and rent-seeking in government and increase accountability and performance.
How India could benefit from producing overseas in a global recessionShantanu Basu
This article proposes to deploy Indian physical and financial assets overseas to explore/exploit natural resources overseas and partly process and export them to India for re-export as finished goods. The overseas operation called Make for India by the author would be the twin to Make in India.
Financial Mismanagement and Lack of Development in AssamShantanu Basu
The document provides background information on the office of the Principal Accountant General (A&E) of Assam and summarizes the key responsibilities and history of the office. It traces the office back to 1912 when it was established as the Comptroller of Assam and notes that it has had 75 leaders over the past century. The office was previously known as the Accountant General of Assam and was granted its current title in 2010. The document also briefly discusses the ancient Indian treatise of Arthashastra and its influence on modern financial administration in India.
The Distressing Pillar of Governance: Downsizing India’s Ministry of FinanceShantanu Basu
The document criticizes India's Ministry of Finance for being too large, centralized, and directionless. It argues the Ministry has become a tool for political subversion and stands in the way of development. The author calls for significantly downsizing the Ministry by separating budgeting and expenditure functions. Spending ministries would be given more autonomy over their budgets. This would promote greater fiscal responsibility and enable development progress led by states. Overall, the Ministry is seen as India's weak link and in need of drastic reform to refocus on its core functions rather than acting as the supreme authority over governance.
Suggestions for improving national governance in IndiaShantanu Basu
The document provides suggestions to improve national governance in India through various economic and administrative reforms. Some key points include merging public sector banks and insurance companies to reduce costs and optimize resources, corporatizing public sector undertakings to increase private participation, and creating unified funds for infrastructure development, research and development, and strategic reserves to promote growth on a larger scale.
Law of Contracts in India research paperShantanu Basu
A contract is an agreement between two or more parties that intends to create legal obligations. Breach of contract occurs when a party fails to perform their obligations under the agreement. There are two types of breach - actual and anticipatory. In the case of anticipatory breach, one party indicates before the performance date that they will not fulfill their promise. The aggrieved party then has the right to immediately sue for damages or wait until the actual performance date. Remedies for breach include damages compensation, specific performance of the contract, injunctions, rescission of the contract, or quantum meruit.
An Irreverent Analysis of India's Purgocracy in 2025 ADShantanu Basu
1. The document describes the decline of the kingdom of Paradasia into the realm of Purgatoria over centuries, as rulers increasingly mandated inbreeding to preserve racial purity. This led to issues of inbreeding depression among the Purgs people.
2. It details how the Purgs people were broken in and domesticated through a process of unlearning and relearning, controlled by figures like Vetus Fogey and technological programs. Their jobs and lives became narrowly focused.
3. The Purgs developed rigid social hierarchies and norms, focusing inward on gossip and metrics like BMI. Super Purgs enjoyed privileges while enforcing strict control over others through public shaming and perpetual punishment for any transgressions.
The document summarizes the campaign strategies of major political parties in India's 2014 general election. It states that the BJP ran a highly organized, technologically advanced campaign led by Narendra Modi that emphasized development, in stark contrast to the disorganized and negative campaign of the Congress party that focused on attacking Modi rather than promoting their own achievements. The BJP's campaign was able to map constituencies, set up thousands of local offices, and use tools like 3D broadcasts of Modi's speeches to reach large audiences, while the Congress relied on inexperienced spokespeople and personal attacks against Modi.
The document discusses reforms that the Seventh Central Pay Commission should recommend. It argues that the SCPC should open senior government posts to public applications on contract basis rather than relying on the civil service system. It also recommends introducing performance-based assessments, increasing accountability of senior officials, standardizing recruitment and promotion rules, and merging several financial services into a new Indian Financial Service to improve efficiency. The key aim of the proposed reforms is to reduce political patronage and rent-seeking in government and increase accountability and performance.
How India could benefit from producing overseas in a global recessionShantanu Basu
This article proposes to deploy Indian physical and financial assets overseas to explore/exploit natural resources overseas and partly process and export them to India for re-export as finished goods. The overseas operation called Make for India by the author would be the twin to Make in India.
Financial Mismanagement and Lack of Development in AssamShantanu Basu
The document provides background information on the office of the Principal Accountant General (A&E) of Assam and summarizes the key responsibilities and history of the office. It traces the office back to 1912 when it was established as the Comptroller of Assam and notes that it has had 75 leaders over the past century. The office was previously known as the Accountant General of Assam and was granted its current title in 2010. The document also briefly discusses the ancient Indian treatise of Arthashastra and its influence on modern financial administration in India.
The Distressing Pillar of Governance: Downsizing India’s Ministry of FinanceShantanu Basu
The document criticizes India's Ministry of Finance for being too large, centralized, and directionless. It argues the Ministry has become a tool for political subversion and stands in the way of development. The author calls for significantly downsizing the Ministry by separating budgeting and expenditure functions. Spending ministries would be given more autonomy over their budgets. This would promote greater fiscal responsibility and enable development progress led by states. Overall, the Ministry is seen as India's weak link and in need of drastic reform to refocus on its core functions rather than acting as the supreme authority over governance.
Suggestions for improving national governance in IndiaShantanu Basu
The document provides suggestions to improve national governance in India through various economic and administrative reforms. Some key points include merging public sector banks and insurance companies to reduce costs and optimize resources, corporatizing public sector undertakings to increase private participation, and creating unified funds for infrastructure development, research and development, and strategic reserves to promote growth on a larger scale.
Law of Contracts in India research paperShantanu Basu
A contract is an agreement between two or more parties that intends to create legal obligations. Breach of contract occurs when a party fails to perform their obligations under the agreement. There are two types of breach - actual and anticipatory. In the case of anticipatory breach, one party indicates before the performance date that they will not fulfill their promise. The aggrieved party then has the right to immediately sue for damages or wait until the actual performance date. Remedies for breach include damages compensation, specific performance of the contract, injunctions, rescission of the contract, or quantum meruit.
1. The document discusses humanity's relationship with nature, debating whether humans need nature to solve problems or if we have transcended nature through technology and can solve problems independently.
2. It notes that while modern society still depends on nature for resources like food and medicine, biotechnology may allow greater independence from nature through options like cultivated foods and synthetic materials.
3. However, the document argues that for long term sustainability we need an "internal nature" like compassion and respect for the environment, and that through cooperation on a global scale we can balance progress with environmental stewardship.
The document discusses Australopithecus, an extinct genus of hominins. It compares Australopithecus to Paranthropus in terms of their time periods, locations, and physical features. Key differences noted are that Australopithecines lived from 4.2-2.3 million years ago in various African countries, had apelike facial features and smaller brains, and likely adapted to both tree and ground living. Paranthropus lived more recently from 2.8-1 million years ago in similar locations, and had more robust features adapted to a harder diet.
This document is about Project Uter, which created a graphic narrative to address the issue of abortion in a way that could facilitate communication and dialogue. It collected people's stories about abortion experiences and translated them into metaphorical images. The project aims to share these images and the stories behind them to encourage consideration of this important but still taboo topic. It acknowledges those who contributed to the project and thanks organizations that have supported disseminating it.
The document summarizes key aspects of Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection, including his observations that led to his conclusions. It discusses how Darwin proposed that individuals with variations better suited to their environment were more likely to survive and pass on their traits, leading to evolution over generations. The document also reviews early human fossils and ancestors, including Australopithecus afarensis, and how the discovery of fossils like the Laetoli footprints provided evidence that early humans were bipedal.
The document analyzes three specimens of Paranthropus robustus fossils from the Pleistocene period in South Africa that had not been previously examined. It compares the enamel characteristics that have evolved over time in southern Africa during the early Pleistocene. The study uses dental micro wear texture analysis to examine how the enamel of Paranthropus robustus had evolved by looking at extant primate taxa. The main purpose was to understand how and why the enamel, molars, and premolars have changed over time.
The Worst Mistake In The History Of The Human Raceby Jared.docxchristalgrieg
"The Worst Mistake In The History Of The Human Race"
by Jared Diamond, Prof. UCLA School of Medicine
Discover-May 1987, pp. 64-66
To science we owe dramatic changes in our smug self-image. Astronomy taught
us that our Earth isn't the center of the universe but merely one of billions of heavenly
bodies. From biology we learned that we weren't specially created by God but evolved
along with millions of other species. Now archaeology is demolishing another sacred
belief: that human history over the past million years has been a long tale of progress. In
particular, recent discoveries suggest that the adoption of agriculture, supposedly our
most decisive step toward a better life, was in many ways a catastrophe from which we
have never recovered. With agriculture came the gross social and sexual inequality, the
disease and despotism,that curse our existence.
At first, the evidence against this revisionist interpretation will strike twentieth
century Americans as irrefutable. We're better off in almost every respect than people of
the Middle Ages who in turn had it easier than cavemen, who in turn were better off than
apes. Just count our advantages. We enjoy the most abundant and varied foods, the best
tools and material goods, some of the longest and healthiest lives, in history. Most of us
are safe from starvation and predators. We get our energy from oil and machines, not
from our sweat. What neo-Luddite among us would trade his life for that of a medieval
peasant, a caveman, or an ape?
For most of our history we supported ourselves by hunting and gathering: we
hunted wild animals and foraged for wild plants. It's a life that philosophers have
traditionally regarded as nasty, brutish, and short. Since no food is grown and little is
stored, there is (in this view) no respite from the struggle that starts anew each day to find
wild foods and avoid starving. Our escape from this misery was facilitated only 10,000
years ago, when in different parts of the world people began to domesticate plants and
animals. The agricultural revolution gradually spread until today it's nearly universal and
few tribes of hunter-gatherers survive.
From the progressivist perspective on which I was brought
up to ask "Why did almost all our hunter-gatherer ancestors adopt
agriculture?" is silly. Of course they adopted it because agriculture
is an efficient way to get more food for less work. Planted crops
yield far more tons per acre than roots and berries. Just imagine a
band of savages, exhausted from searching for nuts or chasing wild
animals, suddenly gazing for the first time at a fruit-laden orchard
or a pasture full of sheep. How many milliseconds do you think it
would take them to appreciate the advantages of agriculture?
The progressivist party line sometimes even goes so far as to
credit agriculture with the remarkable flowering of art that has taken
place over the past few thousand years. Since crops can be stored,
and since it takes less time to pick ...
The document discusses Kapampangan culture and cuisine. It begins by defining culture and explaining some key theories of cultural determinism. It then explores various manifestations of culture, including symbols, heroes, rituals and values. The document also examines layers of culture and strategies for reconciling cultural differences. Specific details about Kapampangan culture follow, such as customs, traditions, beliefs and the Kapampangan language.
Transformation of farmers agitation 2021 in IndiaShantanu Basu
This movement began as a protest against controversial farm acts by farmers, but has expanded into a broader challenge and alliance against the government by 90% of India's population. It represents common people challenging the privileged elite and seeking to replace the existing political system that perpetuates inequalities. The movement signals dissatisfaction with a system skewed in favor of upper castes and brings together various disadvantaged groups including farmers, laborers, and the unemployed from across different states. It seeks equitable policies for both buyers and sellers in the agricultural sector and other reforms benefiting farmers and rural communities.
- War clouds are gathering as Russia threatens to invade Ukraine and China flexes its muscles on the Indian border. Both countries have rebuilt their economies and militaries while Western powers have aging equipment.
- China and Russia want to show strength domestically and see Western treaties as having truncated their nations. They have penetrated infrastructure overseas and tested new weapons.
- The global power balance has shifted eastward as Western nations ceded manufacturing and technology to Asia. A future world war would likely be in Asia between East and West. India would struggle to fight on multiple fronts against China and Pakistan.
Red challenges to Biden's blue presidencyShantanu Basu
Biden faces formidable challenges as President from Republican opposition in the Senate and from Trump supporters across America. His agenda will likely be stalled as the Senate is evenly split, requiring Vice President Kamala Harris's vote. The US economy also presents challenges as it relies on high debt and deficits. Biden will face stiff opposition to providing further COVID relief, returning to Obama-era policies, and replacing Trump administration officials. Relations with China may continue as both countries rely on trade, but Biden will face pressure over issues like India from Republicans portraying him as soft. As the first Democratic president in decades, Biden will have to navigate tensions over race, business interests, and personal freedoms to achieve his reform agenda.
- War clouds are gathering as Russia threatens to invade Ukraine and China flexes its muscles on the India-China border. Both countries have rebuilt their economies and militaries while Western powers have aging equipment.
- China and Russia want to show strength domestically and see Western treaties as having truncated their nations. They have penetrated Western systems through cyber and economic means.
- The global power balance has shifted eastward as Western nations ceded manufacturing and technology to Asia. A future world war would likely be in Asia between East and West. India would struggle to fight on multiple fronts against China and Pakistan.
Red challenges to biden's blue presidencyShantanu Basu
Biden faces significant challenges as President from Republican opposition in the Senate and from conservative Americans who supported Trump. His agenda faces obstacles to passing legislation due to the even Senate split, and he may be forced to compromise on issues like abortion, immigration, and healthcare to appease conservatives. Biden also inherits an economy weakened by the pandemic and trade wars, high debt levels, and social divisions exacerbated by Trump. His ability to enact his agenda and make progress on issues like racial justice and climate change will depend on his ability to navigate these political and economic challenges from his opponents on the right.
The document summarizes India's fiscal deficit and gross liabilities for the years 2019-20 and 2020-21. It states that India's GDP in 2019-20 was approximately Rs. 250 lakh crore, with a fiscal deficit of Rs. 8.75 lakh crore or 3.5% of GDP. However, additional liabilities not provided for in the budget estimate totaled Rs. 38.75 lakh crore, bringing the real fiscal deficit to 15.5% of GDP. For 2020-21, GDP declined by 23.9% to approximately Rs. 190 lakh crore, while additional liabilities above the budget estimate of Rs. 35 lakh crore total Rs. 70 lakh
1. The document discusses the political and economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, originating from China. It argues that while the Chinese government is culpable for initially suppressing information about the outbreak, blaming the Chinese people is unfair.
2. It describes how China's economic reforms and opening up led to massive growth and wealth creation, but also political ambitions and social tensions. The pandemic may cause countries to bring manufacturing back and reconsider their dependence on China.
3. India is positioned to benefit if it replicates China's economic model to attract investment and jobs, but it faces major challenges around infrastructure, bureaucracy, and corruption. Overall, the pandemic could spur manufacturing growth in multiple countries and regions.
1. The author argues that nationalism in India is often propagated by politicians to distract from domestic issues and consolidate power, rather than unite people. True nationalism respects India's diversity and ensures prosperity for all.
2. Many contributors to India's freedom struggle and cultural heritage are unknown or forgotten. Figures from all religions, genders, and social groups made sacrifices but a narrow version of nationalism promotes only certain identities.
3. India still faces significant issues of poverty, hunger, and inequality despite recent economic growth. True nationalism requires upholding democracy and rule of law to protect all citizens' rights and development.
India's Public Finances are in ShamblesShantanu Basu
The finances of the Government of India (GOI) are in dire straits. As of January 2020, the fiscal deficit was estimated at Rs. 9.85 lakh crore, which is about a third of total budgeted expenditures. With disastrous tax revenue in the first three quarters of the fiscal year and the impact of COVID-19, the actual deficit could exceed 45-50% of expenditures. Adding additional off-budget borrowing, the deficit could jump to 45% of revenues. To fill this large shortfall, GOI will need to take on substantial new borrowing, further increasing debt levels and interest payments in the coming years. The financial condition of GOI is weak, limiting its ability to provide further fiscal support
The document discusses India's debate around issuing sovereign bonds. It notes that India's high levels of domestic debt could amount to 45-50% of the government's budget annually. Issuing sovereign bonds in US dollars also presents risks like currency fluctuations, inflation risks, and lower credit ratings increasing interest rates. While sovereign bonds could raise large funds, there are doubts around India's ability to repay its obligations without impacting domestic debt payments or leading to a debt crisis. Alternative domestic funding options that avoid sovereign bond risks need more exploration.
The author argues that a lockdown in India would be misplaced and ineffective at stopping the spread of Covid-19 due to several factors unique to India. First, high population densities in urban and rural areas would make social distancing and quarantine impossible. Second, many migrant workers have returned from overseas and are traveling within India, negating the impact of a lockdown. Third, daily necessities are purchased from dense markets and small shops, and shutting these down would cause food shortages and panic. The author provides several alternative suggestions to address the virus, such as increased testing, protective equipment for frontline workers, and enlisting private industry to help produce medical supplies.
This document summarizes the debate around India issuing sovereign bonds for the first time. It notes that India already has high levels of domestic debt totaling Rs. 350-400 lakh crore. Issuing dollar-denominated sovereign bonds would expose India to currency and inflation risks given its lower-medium credit rating. While sovereign bonds could raise large funds, India may struggle to find projects that generate enough return to pay the estimated 6-7% coupon rate required due to these risks. The document argues for reforms like reducing government ministries, increasing foreign portfolio investment limits, and privatizing some state projects before relying too heavily on sovereign bonds.
Revocation of Art. 370 - The Ultimate Victory?Shantanu Basu
The document discusses corruption among politicians in Kashmir and the siphoning of public funds. It argues that revoking Article 370 is not an end in itself and that more needs to be done to address corruption. Statistics are provided showing large expenditures and grants to Kashmir compared to low revenues and poor development outcomes. The author urges the government to take exemplary action against corrupt politicians, scrutinize financial records, improve governance and economic opportunities in Kashmir, and handle the situation with care and fairness to avoid further conflict.
Dance of democracy or descent into mockocracyShantanu Basu
Briefly discusses the role of small parties that do not participate in elections in India but are errand boys of the larger ones in criminality like cash and drugs distribution during elections in India.
1. The document discusses humanity's relationship with nature, debating whether humans need nature to solve problems or if we have transcended nature through technology and can solve problems independently.
2. It notes that while modern society still depends on nature for resources like food and medicine, biotechnology may allow greater independence from nature through options like cultivated foods and synthetic materials.
3. However, the document argues that for long term sustainability we need an "internal nature" like compassion and respect for the environment, and that through cooperation on a global scale we can balance progress with environmental stewardship.
The document discusses Australopithecus, an extinct genus of hominins. It compares Australopithecus to Paranthropus in terms of their time periods, locations, and physical features. Key differences noted are that Australopithecines lived from 4.2-2.3 million years ago in various African countries, had apelike facial features and smaller brains, and likely adapted to both tree and ground living. Paranthropus lived more recently from 2.8-1 million years ago in similar locations, and had more robust features adapted to a harder diet.
This document is about Project Uter, which created a graphic narrative to address the issue of abortion in a way that could facilitate communication and dialogue. It collected people's stories about abortion experiences and translated them into metaphorical images. The project aims to share these images and the stories behind them to encourage consideration of this important but still taboo topic. It acknowledges those who contributed to the project and thanks organizations that have supported disseminating it.
The document summarizes key aspects of Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection, including his observations that led to his conclusions. It discusses how Darwin proposed that individuals with variations better suited to their environment were more likely to survive and pass on their traits, leading to evolution over generations. The document also reviews early human fossils and ancestors, including Australopithecus afarensis, and how the discovery of fossils like the Laetoli footprints provided evidence that early humans were bipedal.
The document analyzes three specimens of Paranthropus robustus fossils from the Pleistocene period in South Africa that had not been previously examined. It compares the enamel characteristics that have evolved over time in southern Africa during the early Pleistocene. The study uses dental micro wear texture analysis to examine how the enamel of Paranthropus robustus had evolved by looking at extant primate taxa. The main purpose was to understand how and why the enamel, molars, and premolars have changed over time.
The Worst Mistake In The History Of The Human Raceby Jared.docxchristalgrieg
"The Worst Mistake In The History Of The Human Race"
by Jared Diamond, Prof. UCLA School of Medicine
Discover-May 1987, pp. 64-66
To science we owe dramatic changes in our smug self-image. Astronomy taught
us that our Earth isn't the center of the universe but merely one of billions of heavenly
bodies. From biology we learned that we weren't specially created by God but evolved
along with millions of other species. Now archaeology is demolishing another sacred
belief: that human history over the past million years has been a long tale of progress. In
particular, recent discoveries suggest that the adoption of agriculture, supposedly our
most decisive step toward a better life, was in many ways a catastrophe from which we
have never recovered. With agriculture came the gross social and sexual inequality, the
disease and despotism,that curse our existence.
At first, the evidence against this revisionist interpretation will strike twentieth
century Americans as irrefutable. We're better off in almost every respect than people of
the Middle Ages who in turn had it easier than cavemen, who in turn were better off than
apes. Just count our advantages. We enjoy the most abundant and varied foods, the best
tools and material goods, some of the longest and healthiest lives, in history. Most of us
are safe from starvation and predators. We get our energy from oil and machines, not
from our sweat. What neo-Luddite among us would trade his life for that of a medieval
peasant, a caveman, or an ape?
For most of our history we supported ourselves by hunting and gathering: we
hunted wild animals and foraged for wild plants. It's a life that philosophers have
traditionally regarded as nasty, brutish, and short. Since no food is grown and little is
stored, there is (in this view) no respite from the struggle that starts anew each day to find
wild foods and avoid starving. Our escape from this misery was facilitated only 10,000
years ago, when in different parts of the world people began to domesticate plants and
animals. The agricultural revolution gradually spread until today it's nearly universal and
few tribes of hunter-gatherers survive.
From the progressivist perspective on which I was brought
up to ask "Why did almost all our hunter-gatherer ancestors adopt
agriculture?" is silly. Of course they adopted it because agriculture
is an efficient way to get more food for less work. Planted crops
yield far more tons per acre than roots and berries. Just imagine a
band of savages, exhausted from searching for nuts or chasing wild
animals, suddenly gazing for the first time at a fruit-laden orchard
or a pasture full of sheep. How many milliseconds do you think it
would take them to appreciate the advantages of agriculture?
The progressivist party line sometimes even goes so far as to
credit agriculture with the remarkable flowering of art that has taken
place over the past few thousand years. Since crops can be stored,
and since it takes less time to pick ...
The document discusses Kapampangan culture and cuisine. It begins by defining culture and explaining some key theories of cultural determinism. It then explores various manifestations of culture, including symbols, heroes, rituals and values. The document also examines layers of culture and strategies for reconciling cultural differences. Specific details about Kapampangan culture follow, such as customs, traditions, beliefs and the Kapampangan language.
Transformation of farmers agitation 2021 in IndiaShantanu Basu
This movement began as a protest against controversial farm acts by farmers, but has expanded into a broader challenge and alliance against the government by 90% of India's population. It represents common people challenging the privileged elite and seeking to replace the existing political system that perpetuates inequalities. The movement signals dissatisfaction with a system skewed in favor of upper castes and brings together various disadvantaged groups including farmers, laborers, and the unemployed from across different states. It seeks equitable policies for both buyers and sellers in the agricultural sector and other reforms benefiting farmers and rural communities.
- War clouds are gathering as Russia threatens to invade Ukraine and China flexes its muscles on the Indian border. Both countries have rebuilt their economies and militaries while Western powers have aging equipment.
- China and Russia want to show strength domestically and see Western treaties as having truncated their nations. They have penetrated infrastructure overseas and tested new weapons.
- The global power balance has shifted eastward as Western nations ceded manufacturing and technology to Asia. A future world war would likely be in Asia between East and West. India would struggle to fight on multiple fronts against China and Pakistan.
Red challenges to Biden's blue presidencyShantanu Basu
Biden faces formidable challenges as President from Republican opposition in the Senate and from Trump supporters across America. His agenda will likely be stalled as the Senate is evenly split, requiring Vice President Kamala Harris's vote. The US economy also presents challenges as it relies on high debt and deficits. Biden will face stiff opposition to providing further COVID relief, returning to Obama-era policies, and replacing Trump administration officials. Relations with China may continue as both countries rely on trade, but Biden will face pressure over issues like India from Republicans portraying him as soft. As the first Democratic president in decades, Biden will have to navigate tensions over race, business interests, and personal freedoms to achieve his reform agenda.
- War clouds are gathering as Russia threatens to invade Ukraine and China flexes its muscles on the India-China border. Both countries have rebuilt their economies and militaries while Western powers have aging equipment.
- China and Russia want to show strength domestically and see Western treaties as having truncated their nations. They have penetrated Western systems through cyber and economic means.
- The global power balance has shifted eastward as Western nations ceded manufacturing and technology to Asia. A future world war would likely be in Asia between East and West. India would struggle to fight on multiple fronts against China and Pakistan.
Red challenges to biden's blue presidencyShantanu Basu
Biden faces significant challenges as President from Republican opposition in the Senate and from conservative Americans who supported Trump. His agenda faces obstacles to passing legislation due to the even Senate split, and he may be forced to compromise on issues like abortion, immigration, and healthcare to appease conservatives. Biden also inherits an economy weakened by the pandemic and trade wars, high debt levels, and social divisions exacerbated by Trump. His ability to enact his agenda and make progress on issues like racial justice and climate change will depend on his ability to navigate these political and economic challenges from his opponents on the right.
The document summarizes India's fiscal deficit and gross liabilities for the years 2019-20 and 2020-21. It states that India's GDP in 2019-20 was approximately Rs. 250 lakh crore, with a fiscal deficit of Rs. 8.75 lakh crore or 3.5% of GDP. However, additional liabilities not provided for in the budget estimate totaled Rs. 38.75 lakh crore, bringing the real fiscal deficit to 15.5% of GDP. For 2020-21, GDP declined by 23.9% to approximately Rs. 190 lakh crore, while additional liabilities above the budget estimate of Rs. 35 lakh crore total Rs. 70 lakh
1. The document discusses the political and economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, originating from China. It argues that while the Chinese government is culpable for initially suppressing information about the outbreak, blaming the Chinese people is unfair.
2. It describes how China's economic reforms and opening up led to massive growth and wealth creation, but also political ambitions and social tensions. The pandemic may cause countries to bring manufacturing back and reconsider their dependence on China.
3. India is positioned to benefit if it replicates China's economic model to attract investment and jobs, but it faces major challenges around infrastructure, bureaucracy, and corruption. Overall, the pandemic could spur manufacturing growth in multiple countries and regions.
1. The author argues that nationalism in India is often propagated by politicians to distract from domestic issues and consolidate power, rather than unite people. True nationalism respects India's diversity and ensures prosperity for all.
2. Many contributors to India's freedom struggle and cultural heritage are unknown or forgotten. Figures from all religions, genders, and social groups made sacrifices but a narrow version of nationalism promotes only certain identities.
3. India still faces significant issues of poverty, hunger, and inequality despite recent economic growth. True nationalism requires upholding democracy and rule of law to protect all citizens' rights and development.
India's Public Finances are in ShamblesShantanu Basu
The finances of the Government of India (GOI) are in dire straits. As of January 2020, the fiscal deficit was estimated at Rs. 9.85 lakh crore, which is about a third of total budgeted expenditures. With disastrous tax revenue in the first three quarters of the fiscal year and the impact of COVID-19, the actual deficit could exceed 45-50% of expenditures. Adding additional off-budget borrowing, the deficit could jump to 45% of revenues. To fill this large shortfall, GOI will need to take on substantial new borrowing, further increasing debt levels and interest payments in the coming years. The financial condition of GOI is weak, limiting its ability to provide further fiscal support
The document discusses India's debate around issuing sovereign bonds. It notes that India's high levels of domestic debt could amount to 45-50% of the government's budget annually. Issuing sovereign bonds in US dollars also presents risks like currency fluctuations, inflation risks, and lower credit ratings increasing interest rates. While sovereign bonds could raise large funds, there are doubts around India's ability to repay its obligations without impacting domestic debt payments or leading to a debt crisis. Alternative domestic funding options that avoid sovereign bond risks need more exploration.
The author argues that a lockdown in India would be misplaced and ineffective at stopping the spread of Covid-19 due to several factors unique to India. First, high population densities in urban and rural areas would make social distancing and quarantine impossible. Second, many migrant workers have returned from overseas and are traveling within India, negating the impact of a lockdown. Third, daily necessities are purchased from dense markets and small shops, and shutting these down would cause food shortages and panic. The author provides several alternative suggestions to address the virus, such as increased testing, protective equipment for frontline workers, and enlisting private industry to help produce medical supplies.
This document summarizes the debate around India issuing sovereign bonds for the first time. It notes that India already has high levels of domestic debt totaling Rs. 350-400 lakh crore. Issuing dollar-denominated sovereign bonds would expose India to currency and inflation risks given its lower-medium credit rating. While sovereign bonds could raise large funds, India may struggle to find projects that generate enough return to pay the estimated 6-7% coupon rate required due to these risks. The document argues for reforms like reducing government ministries, increasing foreign portfolio investment limits, and privatizing some state projects before relying too heavily on sovereign bonds.
Revocation of Art. 370 - The Ultimate Victory?Shantanu Basu
The document discusses corruption among politicians in Kashmir and the siphoning of public funds. It argues that revoking Article 370 is not an end in itself and that more needs to be done to address corruption. Statistics are provided showing large expenditures and grants to Kashmir compared to low revenues and poor development outcomes. The author urges the government to take exemplary action against corrupt politicians, scrutinize financial records, improve governance and economic opportunities in Kashmir, and handle the situation with care and fairness to avoid further conflict.
Dance of democracy or descent into mockocracyShantanu Basu
Briefly discusses the role of small parties that do not participate in elections in India but are errand boys of the larger ones in criminality like cash and drugs distribution during elections in India.
1. The author argues that excessive nationalism propagated by politicians is often used to mask internal flaws and promote superiority over others. However, true nationalism accepts diversity and is inclusive.
2. The author notes that India's rich cultural heritage and history of national heroes is often unknown or forgotten. Many contributions to India's freedom struggle came from a diverse range of individuals across religions and social groups.
3. While India has become one of the largest economies, there remains significant hunger and poverty that true nationalism should aim to address. Crony capitalism has benefited the privileged more than addressing issues facing the masses. The rule of law and democracy are also threatened when different rules apply to different groups.
Briefly registers my protest against the proposed implementation of NYAYA by the Indian National Congress. It opposes the very idea of unsustainable cash handouts to the indigent.
Ten takeaways from india state assembly elections 2018Shantanu Basu
1. The document provides 10 takeaways from the 2018 Indian state assembly elections. Key issues included voters rejecting both the BJP's majoritarian religious politics and the INC's weak religious appeals. Development was prioritized over allegations of corruption.
2. Voters rejected negative campaigning and were not swayed by promises or incentives but cared most about issues like jobs, farm loans, prices, and wages. Narrow victory margins showed that politicians must deliver or face backlash.
3. Caste and religious loyalties mattered less while educated leaders were preferred. Social media was a double-edged sword that allowed debates to influence remote voters. A silent voter revolution occurred as voters rejected empty promises and arrogance.
Telecom Revolution, Governnace and Elections in IndiaShantanu Basu
Briefly discusses the telecom and media revolutions in India. The article concludes that a large part of voting in India's next General Election in 2019 would be decided from homes and that such choices would make voters much more conscious of seeking accountability of their elected representatives.
Orpah Winfrey Dwayne Johnson: Titans of Influence and Inspirationgreendigital
Introduction
In the realm of entertainment, few names resonate as Orpah Winfrey Dwayne Johnson. Both figures have carved unique paths in the industry. achieving unparalleled success and becoming iconic symbols of perseverance, resilience, and inspiration. This article delves into the lives, careers. and enduring legacies of Orpah Winfrey Dwayne Johnson. exploring how their journeys intersect and what we can learn from their remarkable stories.
Follow us on: Pinterest
Early Life and Backgrounds
Orpah Winfrey: From Humble Beginnings to Media Mogul
Orpah Winfrey, often known as Oprah due to a misspelling on her birth certificate. was born on January 29, 1954, in Kosciusko, Mississippi. Raised in poverty by her grandmother, Winfrey's early life was marked by hardship and adversity. Despite these challenges. she demonstrated a keen intellect and an early talent for public speaking.
Winfrey's journey to success began with a scholarship to Tennessee State University. where she studied communication. Her first job in media was as a co-anchor for the local evening news in Nashville. This role paved the way for her eventual transition to talk show hosting. where she found her true calling.
Dwayne Johnson: From Wrestling Royalty to Hollywood Superstar
Dwayne Johnson, also known by his ring name "The Rock," was born on May 2, 1972, in Hayward, California. He comes from a family of professional wrestlers, with both his father, Rocky Johnson. and his grandfather, Peter Maivia, being notable figures in the wrestling world. Johnson's early life was spent moving between New Zealand and the United States. experiencing a variety of cultural influences.
Before entering the world of professional wrestling. Johnson had aspirations of becoming a professional football player. He played college football at the University of Miami. where he was part of a national championship team. But, injuries curtailed his football career, leading him to follow in his family's footsteps and enter the wrestling ring.
Career Milestones
Orpah Winfrey: The Queen of All Media
Winfrey's career breakthrough came in 1986 when she launched "The Oprah Winfrey Show." The show became a cultural phenomenon. drawing millions of viewers daily and earning many awards. Winfrey's empathetic and candid interviewing style resonated with audiences. helping her tackle diverse and often challenging topics.
Beyond her talk show, Winfrey expanded her empire to include the creation of Harpo Productions. a multimedia production company. She also launched "O, The Oprah Magazine" and OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, further solidifying her status as a media mogul.
Dwayne Johnson: From The Ring to The Big Screen
Dwayne Johnson's wrestling career took off in the late 1990s. when he became one of the most charismatic and popular figures in WWE. His larger-than-life persona and catchphrases endeared him to fans. making him a household name. But, Johnson had ambitions beyond the wrestling ring.
In the early 20
Leonardo DiCaprio House: A Journey Through His Extravagant Real Estate Portfoliogreendigital
Introduction
Leonardo DiCaprio, A name synonymous with Hollywood excellence. is not only known for his stellar acting career but also for his impressive real estate investments. The "Leonardo DiCaprio house" is a topic that piques the interest of many. as the Oscar-winning actor has amassed a diverse portfolio of luxurious properties. DiCaprio's homes reflect his varied tastes and commitment to sustainability. from retreats to historic mansions. This article will delve into the fascinating world of Leonardo DiCaprio's real estate. Exploring the details of his most notable residences. and the unique aspects that make them stand out.
Follow us on: Pinterest
Leonardo DiCaprio House: Malibu Beachfront Retreat
A Prime Location
His Malibu beachfront house is one of the most famous properties in Leonardo DiCaprio's real estate portfolio. Situated in the exclusive Carbon Beach. also known as "Billionaire's Beach," this property boasts stunning ocean views and private beach access. The "Leonardo DiCaprio house" in Malibu is a testament to the actor's love for the sea and his penchant for luxurious living.
Architectural Highlights
The Malibu house features a modern design with clean lines, large windows. and open spaces blending indoor and outdoor living. The expansive deck and patio areas provide ample space for entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet sunset. The house has state-of-the-art amenities. including a gourmet kitchen, a home theatre, and many guest suites.
Sustainable Features
Leonardo DiCaprio is a well-known environmental activist. whose Malibu house reflects his commitment to sustainability. The property incorporates solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and sustainable building materials. The landscaping around the house is also designed to be water-efficient. featuring drought-resistant plants and intelligent irrigation systems.
Leonardo DiCaprio House: Hollywood Hills Hideaway
Privacy and Seclusion
Another remarkable property in Leonardo DiCaprio's collection is his Hollywood Hills house. This secluded retreat offers privacy and tranquility. making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. The "Leonardo DiCaprio house" in Hollywood Hills nestled among lush greenery. and offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
Design and Amenities
The Hollywood Hills house is a mid-century modern gem characterized by its sleek design and floor-to-ceiling windows. The open-concept living space is perfect for entertaining. while the cozy bedrooms provide a comfortable retreat. The property also features a swimming pool, and outdoor dining area. and a spacious deck that overlooks the cityscape.
Environmental Initiatives
The Hollywood Hills house incorporates several green features that are in line with DiCaprio's environmental values. The home has solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, and a rainwater harvesting system. Additionally, the landscaping designed to support local wildlife and promote
Odia New Web Series at your fingerprint.mikedanoffice
Stay ahead of the curve with the latest in Odia entertainment! Our Odia new web series promise an exciting blend of fresh narratives, talented performances, and engaging plots. Immerse yourself in the evolving world of Odia storytelling with our curated selection of cutting-edge web content. for more visit: https://aaonxt.com/series
Top IPTV UK Providers of A Comprehensive Review.pdfXtreame HDTV
The television landscape in the UK has evolved significantly with the rise of Internet Protocol Television (IPTV). IPTV offers a modern alternative to traditional cable and satellite TV, allowing viewers to stream live TV, on-demand videos, and other multimedia content directly to their devices over the internet. This review provides an in-depth look at the top IPTV UK providers, their features, pricing, and what sets them apart.
From Teacher to OnlyFans: Brianna Coppage's Story at 28get joys
At 28, Brianna Coppage left her teaching career to become an OnlyFans content creator. This bold move into digital entrepreneurship allowed her to harness her creativity and build a new identity. Brianna's experience highlights the intersection of technology and personal branding in today's economy.
The Evolution of the Leonardo DiCaprio Haircut: A Journey Through Style and C...greendigital
Leonardo DiCaprio, a name synonymous with Hollywood stardom and acting excellence. has captivated audiences for decades with his talent and charisma. But, the Leonardo DiCaprio haircut is one aspect of his public persona that has garnered attention. From his early days as a teenage heartthrob to his current status as a seasoned actor and environmental activist. DiCaprio's hairstyles have evolved. reflecting both his personal growth and the changing trends in fashion. This article delves into the many phases of the Leonardo DiCaprio haircut. exploring its significance and impact on pop culture.
Sara Saffari: Turning Underweight into Fitness Success at 23get joys
Uncover the remarkable journey of Sara Saffari, whose transformation from underweight struggles to being recognized as a fitness icon at 23 underscores the importance of perseverance, discipline, and embracing a healthy lifestyle.
The Unbelievable Tale of Dwayne Johnson Kidnapping: A Riveting Sagagreendigital
Introduction
The notion of Dwayne Johnson kidnapping seems straight out of a Hollywood thriller. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, known for his larger-than-life persona, immense popularity. and action-packed filmography, is the last person anyone would envision being a victim of kidnapping. Yet, the bizarre and riveting tale of such an incident, filled with twists and turns. has captured the imagination of many. In this article, we delve into the intricate details of this astonishing event. exploring every aspect, from the dramatic rescue operation to the aftermath and the lessons learned.
Follow us on: Pinterest
The Origins of the Dwayne Johnson Kidnapping Saga
Dwayne Johnson: A Brief Background
Before discussing the specifics of the kidnapping. it is crucial to understand who Dwayne Johnson is and why his kidnapping would be so significant. Born May 2, 1972, Dwayne Douglas Johnson is an American actor, producer, businessman. and former professional wrestler. Known by his ring name, "The Rock," he gained fame in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) before transitioning to a successful career in Hollywood.
Johnson's filmography includes blockbuster hits such as "The Fast and the Furious" series, "Jumanji," "Moana," and "San Andreas." His charismatic personality, impressive physique. and action-star status have made him a beloved figure worldwide. Thus, the news of his kidnapping would send shockwaves across the globe.
Setting the Scene: The Day of the Kidnapping
The incident of Dwayne Johnson's kidnapping began on an ordinary day. Johnson was filming his latest high-octane action film set to break box office records. The location was a remote yet scenic area. chosen for its rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas. perfect for the film's climactic scenes.
But, beneath the veneer of normalcy, a sinister plot was unfolding. Unbeknownst to Johnson and his team, a group of criminals had planned his abduction. hoping to leverage his celebrity status for a hefty ransom. The stage was set for an event that would soon dominate worldwide headlines and social media feeds.
The Abduction: Unfolding the Dwayne Johnson Kidnapping
The Moment of Capture
On the day of the kidnapping, everything seemed to be proceeding as usual on set. Johnson and his co-stars and crew were engrossed in shooting a particularly demanding scene. As the day wore on, the production team took a short break. providing the kidnappers with the perfect opportunity to strike.
The abduction was executed with military precision. A group of masked men, armed and organized, infiltrated the set. They created chaos, taking advantage of the confusion to isolate Johnson. Johnson was outnumbered and caught off guard despite his formidable strength and fighting skills. The kidnappers overpowered him, bundled him into a waiting vehicle. and sped away, leaving everyone on set in a state of shock and disbelief.
The Immediate Aftermath
The immediate aftermath of the Dwayne Johnson kidnappin
At Digidev, we are working to be the leader in interactive streaming platforms of choice by smart device users worldwide.
Our goal is to become the ultimate distribution service of entertainment content. The Digidev application will offer the next generation television highway for users to discover and engage in a variety of content. While also providing a fresh and
innovative approach towards advertainment with vast revenue opportunities. Designed and developed by Joe Q. Bretz
Leonardo DiCaprio Super Bowl: Hollywood Meets America’s Favorite Gamegreendigital
Introduction
Leonardo DiCaprio is synonymous with Hollywood stardom and acclaimed performances. has a unique connection with one of America's most beloved sports events—the Super Bowl. The "Leonardo DiCaprio Super Bowl" phenomenon combines the worlds of cinema and sports. drawing attention from fans of both domains. This article delves into the multifaceted relationship between DiCaprio and the Super Bowl. exploring his appearances at the event, His involvement in Super Bowl advertisements. and his cultural impact that bridges the gap between these two massive entertainment industries.
Follow us on: Pinterest
Leonardo DiCaprio: The Hollywood Icon
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Leonardo Wilhelm DiCaprio was born in Los Angeles, California, on November 11, 1974. His journey to stardom began at a young age with roles in television commercials and educational programs. DiCaprio's breakthrough came with his portrayal of Luke Brower in the sitcom "Growing Pains" and later as Tobias Wolff in "This Boy's Life" (1993). where he starred alongside Robert De Niro.
Rise to Stardom
DiCaprio's career skyrocketed with his performance in "What's Eating Gilbert Grape" (1993). earning him his first Academy Award nomination. He continued to gain acclaim with roles in "Romeo + Juliet" (1996) and "Titanic" (1997). the latter of which cemented his status as a global superstar. Over the years, DiCaprio has showcased his versatility in films like "The Aviator" (2004). "Start" (2010), and "The Revenant" (2015), for which he finally won an Academy Award for Best Actor.
Environmental Activism
Beyond his film career, DiCaprio is also renowned for his environmental activism. He established the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation in 1998, focusing on global conservation efforts. His commitment to ecological issues often intersects with his public appearances. including those related to the Super Bowl.
The Super Bowl: An American Institution
History and Significance
The Super Bowl is the National Football League (NFL) championship game. is one of the most-watched sporting events in the world. First played in 1967, the Super Bowl has evolved into a cultural phenomenon. featuring high-profile halftime shows, memorable advertisements, and significant media coverage. The event attracts a diverse audience, from avid sports fans to casual viewers. making it a prime platform for celebrities to appear.
Entertainment and Advertisements
The Super Bowl is not only about football but also about entertainment. The halftime show features performances by some of the biggest names in the music industry. while the commercials are often as anticipated as the game itself. Companies invest millions in Super Bowl ads. creating iconic and sometimes controversial commercials that capture public attention.
Leonardo DiCaprio's Super Bowl Appearances
A Celebrity Among the Fans
Leonardo DiCaprio's presence at the Super Bowl has noted several times. As a high-profile celebrity. DiCaprio attracts
The Future of Independent Filmmaking Trends and Job OpportunitiesLetsFAME
The landscape of independent filmmaking is evolving at an unprecedented pace. Technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and new distribution models are reshaping the industry, creating new opportunities and challenges for filmmakers and film industry jobs. This article explores the future of independent filmmaking, highlighting key trends and emerging job opportunities.
The Future of Independent Filmmaking Trends and Job Opportunities
Perils of Instituional Inbreeding
1. The Perils of Inbreeding: Some Lessons from Paradasia and Purgatoria1
Shantanu Basu
Presided over by Lord Charonstyx III, the fabled hamlet of Paradasia was a thriving
cosmopolitan hamlet two centuries ago. Its decline began with Charonstyx V and VI from
1997-2022 AD. While the former rechristened his kingdom Purgatoria, the latter decreed that
inbreeding only among its people would henceforth be allowed to preserve the purity of the
race. Ear and mouth plugs replaced rings and bracelets. Then the decline began – now they
are no more. Why did this happen? I decided to delve into the depths of time and the Net for
an answer. Here are my findings.
www.thefreedictionary.com provides an interesting two-fold definition of the term
„inbreeding‟:
1. The breeding of related individuals within an isolated or a closed group of organisms or
people.
2. The continued breeding of closely related individuals so as to preserve desirable traits in a
stock.
Wikipedia supplements by defining a condition of inbreeding depression being “the
reduced fitness in a given population as a result of breeding of related individuals. It is often
the result of a population bottleneck. In general, the higher the genetic variation within a
breeding population, the less likely it is to suffer from inbreeding depression.” I have read of
tigers dying out owing to excessive inbreeding and bigger issues relating to the biosphere.
But did Paradasians decline to Purgatarians (I shall call them the Purgs, as in mundane human
physiological systemic purges) from this condition? Having assiduously trawled the Net
methinks the answer lies positively in the affirmative. Here‟s how.
Purgs were products of a cattle-fertilization system that did not distinguish between
botanists, linguists, vocalists, historians, men of law, engineers, doctors, etc. so long as they
delivered milk and birthed more cows. The great marvel of a Purg‟s breaking-in was the
process of unlearning. Multi-skilling was the name of the game – Jack of all trades, master of
none, goes the saying. God save a Purg if your engineering or medical degree showed up in
your career………God‟s too small to pray for mercy from then!
Unlearning ran in tandem with a process called re-learning. Such re-learning included,
but was not limited to, new Android terms and variations thereof, the world revolving around
negative prefixes, basic grammar, body language including the archetypal stoop, and above
all a set of robotically human crutches affectionately referred to as Adjustable Object
supported by Against All Odds who became the Purgs‟ alter egos as Purgs swore and lived by
them, even controlled the Purgs‟ involuntary flexing of facial and other muscles and organs
like the tongue, lungs, liver and intestines.
Domestication of a baby Purg began in the remote hills, for penitence for past sins
(and rebirth as a Purg) must be washed closest to their Makers. Greenhorn Purgs were
initiated into their lifetime of serfdom under the stentorian glare of a Vetus Fogey ably
assisted by assistants, Adjustable Object and Against All Odds. The Adjustable Object and
Against All Odds erupted from a mega virus-hit computer program that controlled Purgatoria
1
This feature was authored in 2025 AD
1
2. and its Purgs, reminiscent of contemporary Hollywood‟s Terminator. Unfortunately, Purgs
were not built like ole‟ Arnie to take these men/women on!
Vetus Fogey and his able assistants preached pious homilies by rote even as the world
around the Purgs rapidly changed. The baby Purgs had their spinae funibus reshaped, with the
crowning glory reserved for cerebrum immutatio manu and Purgidex courses in Purgese, the
national language. For instance a typical homily ran thus, “Thou shalt, repeat SHALT, smear
others with the products of your own physiological purges.” In other words, Purgataria must
prevail over Paradasia, even if others believed otherwise. Some classic breaking-in examples
included, but were not limited to, non-taxable spirits and smokes, Purgedes cars even outside
Purgataria, calorie-rich alimentation and beverages, a token of appreciation or two,
complimentary stay in Purgotels, etc, all by courtesy of non-Purgatarians. The Purgalian
Monks in the Hills thus ensured that the process of unlearning struck deep roots, even in the
rootless Purgian system whose joie de vivre was counting golden balls on the right side of the
decimal point ad infinitum…….the more the merrier!
The instruments for student compliance range from ducking stools to thumbscrews,
oral flagellation, et al followed by branding and pillory, recalcitrance being awarded the
guillotine from the community. Come graduation day, or a fortuitous escape, the Vetus Fogey
awarded the Purg Graduatio Gratus to the bewildered young Purg, over clothed in a
graduation cap and gown, with the feel-good bonus of a red ribbon and medal in recognition
of his having imbibed the „finest traditions‟ of Purgs. He was told to lead the phalanx into the
field of battle with his instruments of professional coquetry and able deputies, Adjustable
Object and Against All Odds. Any attempt to go against their will would invite the wrath of
the Tyrannosaurus upon a junior Purg, already overwhelmed by the Tyrannosaurus‟s sudden
deafness and paralyzed hands. Even computer programs like BoxOffice were rewritten to
accommodate their Purgese. Thus was a botanist or historian broken in to be a Purg, the reins
remaining firmly in the hands of the crutches till passing into eternity or severance did the
three apart.
However, these did not necessarily imply that induction surgery was a one-time effort
for Purgs. Indeed, it was a lifelong one, complete with steel plates under the cheeks and on
the rump, mini-ear plugs to reduce incoming ambient noise and its attendant undesirable
effects on the cerebrum. Hide thickener administered in innumerable gratis cups of
Purgatorial hot beverages and succulent culinary delights straight from the Purganalia gruau
cuisines made for radiant and glowing armor, never mind the squalor and filth around. The
Purgs even had PurgMobiles, PurgAutos, PurgBooks and Purg V-Nets assigned to them that
serve a triple purpose. For one, it helped Tyrannosaurus Purgs to keep an eye on errant young
Purgs. For the other, it made sure that the young Purgs helped the Adjustable Object and
Against All Odds at work and not bother the Tyrannosaurus Purgs about such mundane
events. Moreover, these served the limited purpose of preserving the Purg‟s leg muscles to
deliver the kick when shove comes to landing a strategically aimed kick on the right quarters
in Purgatorian politics. For a bonus, V-Net even allowed unfettered exchange of gossip and
peccadilloes of fellow Purgs! Gender imbalance against the feline of the species in the Purg
community was governed by the socialistic Purgian theorem of induced mutation and natural
balance. After the first decade or so in the community the average Purg naturally mutated into
the opposite gender, mostly metaphorically, and hey presto! The balance was restored! After
all, balance is what Purgs variously define it as.
So far I have limitedly dwelt above about the Purgs‟ source of reservoirs of energy.
Now I shall address their negative energy. However, I may caution that Body Mass Index
(BMI) was in direct proportion to the „weight‟ of the professional portfolio of a Purg. The
2
3. average Purg‟s BMI was generally below 18, with years of gorging on treats ranging from
rolled breads on bus/rail station platforms with generous dollops of Martian gooey, topped
with a drink of tamarind water. However, decreed super Purgs made do with BMI of 30 or
more, what with one man-one standard applied to them by decree.
In haste to make hay while Puragtorio were still there, super Purgs „managed‟
„weightier‟ job portfolios, in Purgatorio and foreign shores by decree, while the ratty ones
eternally remained in hope of redemption at a futuristically future date. Failing kidneys and
hearts of spouses, other „medical conditions‟ for Toms including, but not limited to, kidneys
and hearts, feline family feelings (the Toms are not supposed to have them) – indeed some
were more equal than most others when it came to choosing between home town or a hill
station in Purgatoria for professional relaxation or enrichment!
Super Purgs indulged themselves at hosts‟ expense with exotica ranging from fish
meuniere, chipotle roast meat, stuffed breast of turkey and a succulent Drambuie pudding
washed down with a Chardonnay or a Merlot and a couple of shots of Cointreau, maybe a
Cohiba too for a digestive. A potentially disruptive pessimistic digestion was addressed by a
healthy shot of Purgatidine, provided by the Purgatorio Health Plan addressed such minor
irritations – well in time for ham, bacon, frankfurters, pancakes, etc. for breakfast and an
equally nourishing mid-morning and afternoon tea and „snakes‟, all at the host‟s expense.
After all, the host yet vainly believed that these were a good investment in their future
without realizing that incremental gastronomic input was in direct proportion to the rising
level of gastronomica exotica, all for a sea of Purgian mediocrus emeritus.
Air-conditioned hotel rooms, self-preservation by alimentation allowance, lifting
spirits, calorific accompanying „snakes‟, desert safaris, dune bashing, a night out in the
desert, invigorating ethnic massages, mid-year breaks in cottages in the hills, golf and tennis
tourneys, an overseas assignment, et al, made a Purg healthily and monetarily bountiful.
Physical activity confined to four steps a day to and from the PurgAuto, burden of a notebook
and bag to and from the car, gratis high-calorie meals/ „snakes‟ duly supervised by a
dietician, a sofa on wheels in office and the air conditioning duct aimed strategically at the
Purg‟s head – to induce deep slumber – compensated for the elegance of a spa at work. To
compensate for any feeling of guilt there was a gym too. Whoever said the Purgs were not the
triumvirs of modern Purgatoria?
Notwithstanding their generally traditional stoop occasioned by large frontal
protrusions extending from below the chest and up to the groin, Purgs traditionally avoided
direct look-backs at a fellow Purg or non-Purg business associate/client, preferring
conspiratorial, even furtive, tangential glances. Their surgically-induced dour and humorless
visages were extended by furrowed eyebrows, inability to greet a fellow Purg in equally
vertical posture, and frozen funny muscles – a tribute to the stillness of time for them. Their
bulbous noses were their universe with their visual add-ons ensuring visibility up to their
noses alone as they selectively ferreted „data‟ from mouse-holes in their clients‟ armor.
Needless to add, Purgs were always ostrichically right, with hindsight adding punch to their
Styxar-winning performances that Charon invariably awarded at the Satania Theatre in Las
Hellas. Never mind what the Hadic Times or the Infernal Express said in their critical
editorials and features for these were but minor itches on the back.
PurgBook and Purgitter lists of friends too were almost entirely from within their
fraternity for it was blasphemous to share secrets beyond the Great Purg Pyramid. Tweets too
were extraordinarily analytical, for instance, blaming the Wild West wind for a missed catch
at a cricket match at the Gabba or assiduously pouring over online disclosures of personal
real estate by fellow Purgs. Inbreeding by royal decree ensured that Purgs‟ families were not
3
4. left out of such debates and they were duly complemented for their absence of a body organ,
tinny voice, high-paying jobs, less than average academic performance, et al. Purgs debated
these and many other professional issues extensively, even for decades, so that the purr-fect
decision emerged - never mind an occasional organizational physiological aberration or
unanticipated historical irrelevance. In fact, Purg beneficence also had the unintended effect
of work responsibilities and allied facilities being liberally outsourced to spouses and kids for
a first-hand feel of why and how charity should naturally begin at home, at Purgatarian
expense while the honcho Purg made an occasional appearance at work!
Verbal flatulence and diarrhea therefore were second nature to Purgs – indeed their
sole twin instruments of professional coquetry. Therefore they remained rock-solid in their
loyalty to their profession and violently resisted suggestions of Purgs being „nitpickers‟. The
Queen of Hearts‟ “Off with his head!” Decree too found macabre reflection in her stellar
achievement in a garland of human skulls around a feline Purg‟s neck, reminiscent of a
revered deity in a similar position. And why not? After all, it was decreed that the feline of
the species always had unlimited libertatem eligere, even if the Toms and their families
didn‟t. This was reminiscent of TS Eliot‟s Prufrock, a balding, weak, neurotic, effete
intellectual, who is both baffled and intimidated by women - a deformed product of sterile
Purgian times. After all, what good were standards if there weren‟t one for each Purg to
preserve the Purgian balance?
The average Purg also delighted in Ma-Mu games, entirely as mainline oversight
activity over their peers. Not only was Tyrannosaurus always right, but the Tyrannosaurus‟s
spouse was the rightest, the Tyrannosaurus had Confucian wisdom, a Marilynian pout, Kodak
memory, Bocelli vocal chords, a Brandoesque grey patch or two on his bell scalp, maybe a
sexy mole on the right cheekbone coupled with a Cary Grant lower jaw dimple, a Mohammad
Ali physique matched by the height of a Buckingham Palace guard, Gibbonian English,
vision and oratorical skills, et al. Of course, these attributes were enshrined in widely-
publicized local laws and applied, well in advance, by slick junior Purgs to Tyrannosaurus or
to be Tyrannosaurus that were heartily reciprocated too, to the consternation of the less
slicker Purgs. Shall we call this mutually-enriching anticipatory generational constituency-
building? Needless to add, these attributes miraculously vanished the day Tyrannosaurus was
no more the Boss.
Instead professional betting started with clockwork precision on the identity of the
successor Tyrannosaurus while the choicest invective doubled for the inscription on the
outgoing Tyrannosaurus‟s tombstone. Similarly, decades-old Purg friendships vanished into
thin air as soon as a Purg moved up the career ladder, save those junior Purgs who had
already made their advance inroads to the Tyrannosaurus‟s mind, even if such move were
occasioned entirely by the efflux of time in an unquestioning system and not by honors in the
battlefield. Loyalty was frowned upon and friends were punished with impunity, never mind
the inflicting Purg‟s past track record itself was not irreproachable. Needless to add, for the
Purg, self always remained above institution. Thus the Purg was born and bred to be a
weathercock. Some inborn genes were evidently not affected in genetic mutation by efflux of
time and fiends in need remained fiends in deed too!
And of course, the little unmentionable about a fellow Purg to Tyrannosaurus so the
guy or gal was caught at covers while attempting a cross-cut! The Purg was also possessed of
Red Indian auditory senses. Plugging an ear to the ground, the Purg was able to divine hoof
beats, as an honest fellow Purg was reduced to cream of asparagus soup by Tyrannosaurus
who Purg-d the hapless Purg, leaving tell-tale footprints in the sand at the site of action. And
yes, „mistake(s)‟ allegedly committed by a hapless Purg in 1904 were publicly proclaimed,
4
5. duly registered in the online Purg Crime Records Bureau and produced in full public glare for
„action‟ to the Boss in 1922, 1960, 1990 and in 2022, depending on the length of the
delinquent Purg‟s nose and his professional longevity. Cow owners call this practice branding
(for life). Methinks it should be called a life sentenced to eternal serfdom in Valhalla. Sparks
of brilliance did not count for parole and reinstatement in the royalty of the community.
Rather they were signs of impending insanity, to be dealt with mercilessly. Multiple jeopardy,
yes….cognizable offence…no!....what‟s defamation or libel, unless Purg Courts willed
otherwise?
Blessed with a long memory, arising from Purgian good health, a Tyrannosaurus Purg
in his twilight years remembered his fictional achievements on the battlefield as he essayed
the role of a neurosurgeon on his junior Purgs by performing cerebrum manu on his to-be-
successors. Otherwise, how would the species survive, if they were not replicated in time?
Tyrannosaurus mentored his/her baby Purgs with an occasional hit to the fence, accompanied
by a forgiving chuckle, if he/she were not overly colic-stricken, given the increasing
imbalance of the humors in Tyrannosaurus‟s system with the ravages of time.
Not exactly constructed to front a Roman phalanx, but possessed of genetically
modified whispering vocal chords, the genetically-challenged back-bencher Purg found
comfort at lunch or as he/she headed home in a bus/train while giving a public sneak veneer
of achievement to his baser instincts of reducing the reputation of a fellow Purg to finel-
ground mince, usually reserved for tender kabobs. This too added spice to modest self-
financed lentils, vegetable and rolled bread at the family‟s dinner ritual. For, without spice,
this ritual would be reduced to a mendicant‟s penance, best had from a banana leaf off the
dining floor. After all, the in-house man of laws was there to take care of defamation suits
that would invariably come the King‟s way.
Evidence shows that the Purgs were great conversationists too. In the pink of health,
they discussed, in hushed tones (for all to hear) changes in means of livelihood of their
compatriots, how a fellow Purg audaciously hosted the Ma-of-all-parties on his/her 25th
wedding anniversary of first-born‟s birthday, diseases like PurgCer and Purgenal failure that
needed Purgalysis to the accompaniment of satisfied tch-tch-tch sounds with 3-D effect,
sympathy for those destined to St. Helena or the Hebrides to eke out their living, pooh-
poohing mundane achievements such as poetry or prose as being too long and complex and
besides the point for genetically modified minds possessed of PurgIQs below a score of 40,
the Puragtarian national average.
Purgs also derived orgasmic delight from seeing their seniority number in tact
whenever the new edition of the Purg Almanac was published. Fellow feeling was converted
into numbers of those going home (finally!) in a year and the cumulative result on the next
move up the career ladder. Similarly, PurgCall, the in-house telephone directory provided the
brass tacks of each office – fodder for animated discussion for a full week! Fellow feeling
also found reflection in friendly blind games of pin the tail on the donkey and stick the dart
on the rump; paste a deathly frame on the face, an angelic light on the Devil and vice versa, et
al. However, thoughtfully, the rules of these games permitted participation by involuntary
proxy for the receiver of the tail or the dart, frame or light.
Good health however, did not alas make for immortality! Not to be outdone, the Purgs
erected mausoleums on every site where their beloved leaders had worked and lived. In fact,
these were working mausoleums complete with spas and Jacuzzis, PurgBooks, video games,
some even heritage structures where the fiction of antiquity was preserved at least on the
façade. Like all societies however, the Purgs too had their own class system – with a
difference. Purgs made their own life trajectories and did not allow their not-too-distant past
5
6. and achievements and personal history to stand in the way of an imperial projection of their
imagined qualities to the Tyrannosaurus Purgs who, in turn, delighted in such voluntary and
voluble 70mm Panavision hijacking to bolster their own sagging fortunes and physical
debility. Thus was the stage set for the emergence of yet another triumvir and another First
Family! In time, they became crusaders of the faith battling evil forces (and each other too!),
Star Wars style, in unknown galaxies and metamorphosed into Purgish Incredible Hulks.
Their presentations won Purgscars, their command over Purgese, Booker prizes, complexions
straight out of an L‟Oreal fashion studio and accolades for paradigm shifts were all theirs,
even if such shifts limitlessly reduced Puragtaria‟s life-span. What was a better way for the
Tyrannosauruses than cover up for their failings than by surrogate governance by voluntary
proxy? Needless to add, the lesser Purgs remained professional thumb-suckers and look-
uppers while the First Families turned professional lifetime hijackers of Purgataria and were
worshipped in equal measure by rulers and the ruled.
In conclusion of my web research, the tale of Purgataria indeed inspires confidence in
humankind to start life afresh as dinosaurs. For, if humans started as dinosaurs, they would
last another ten millennia before they mutated into Purgs and vanished into oblivion. For the
mother of all paradigm shifts and the end of human civilization was the human-induced
mutation from Paradasia to Purgataria! A mutation that even Shelley‟s “wild spirit” of the
West Wind was unable to shake off. And how would it? For, these were evidently TS Eliot‟s
hollow men – scarecrows stuffed with hay – in a barren land, and bereft of anything of
substance, even unfit for the descent to Hades.
6