Frontline on Air

The tribute to Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee (1944-2024) reflects on his legacy as West Bengal's former Chief Minister, poet, and politician. It delves into his vision for industrial resurgence, his leadership within the CPI(M) and the Left Front, and the challenges he faced in his political journey.

Jinoy Jose P. explores the devastating impact of landslides in Wayanad, Kerala, particularly in the Mundakkai and Chooralmala regions, and their connection to climate change and ecological degradation. The article also reflects on the importance of the Gadgil Report in understanding and mitigating the risks to the Western Ghats.

T.M. Thomas Isaac critiques the 2024 Union Budget, highlighting its deviation from the Gadgil formula that ensured fair fiscal devolution between the Centre and the states. He argues that the BJP government’s approach undermines cooperative federalism, disproportionately affecting the financial stability of states.

C.P. Chandrasekhar discusses how the BJP-led central government has systematically attacked fiscal federalism, resulting in the deliberate withholding and reduction of funds for opposition-ruled states. This strategy, he argues, severely hampers the financial independence and governance capabilities of these states.

Savita Kulkarni and Neeraj Hatekar examine the proposal to convert Maharashtra's Marathwada and Vidarbha regions into Union Territories, highlighting the deep-seated multidimensional poverty affecting these areas. The discussion also explores the potential implications for governance and regional development.

Smruti Koppikar delves into the economic disparities and the challenges faced by Mumbai's Dharavi, focusing on how climate change and flooding exacerbate inequality. The article also touches on the broader implications of these issues in the context of the upcoming elections.

Radheshyam Jadhav discusses Maharashtra's ongoing agrarian crisis, highlighting issues such as crop failure, drought, and the resulting urban migration. The article explores how unseasonal rains and fragmented irrigation systems exacerbate the challenges faced by the state's farmers.

Neeraj Hatekar analyzes Maharashtra's economic challenges, focusing on urban and rural poverty, unemployment, and income disparities. The article sheds light on the state's struggles with maintaining economic stability and improving the livelihoods of its population.

Suhas Palshikar examines the pressing challenge for Maharashtra in reviving its culture of moderation amidst the current political landscape. The article underscores the importance of restoring balanced discourse in the state’s politics.

Divya Gandhi explores the intensifying heatwaves in India, linking them to extreme weather events driven by climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. The article delves into the Indian Meteorological Department's role in monitoring these alarming trends.