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Today marks 365 days since India assumed the G20 Presidency. It is a moment to reflect, recommit, and rejuvenate the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future.’ 

As we undertook this responsibility last year, the global landscape grappled with multifaceted challenges: recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, looming climate threats, financial instability, and debt distress in developing nations, all amid declining multilateralism. In the midst of conflicts and competition, development cooperation suffered, impeding progress.

Assuming the G20 Chair, India sought to offer the world an alternative to status quo, a shift from a GDP-centric to human-centric progress. India aimed to remind the world of what unites us, rather than what divides us. Finally, the global conversation had to evolve - the interests of the few had to give way to the aspirations of the many. This required a fundamental reform of multilateralism as we knew it.

Inclusive, ambitious, action-oriented, and decisive—these four words defined our approach as G20 president, and the New Delhi Leaders' Declaration (NDLD), unanimously adopted by all G20 members, is testimony to our commitment to deliver on these principles. 

Inclusivity has been at the heart of our presidency. The inclusion of the African Union (AU) as a permanent member of the G20 integrated 55 African nations into the forum, expanding it to encompass 80% of the global population. This proactive stance has fostered a more comprehensive dialogue on global challenges and opportunities.

The first-of-its-kind 'Voice of the Global South Summit,' convened by India in two editions, heralded a new dawn of multilateralism. India mainstreamed the Global South's concerns in international discourse and has ushered in an era where developing countries take their rightful place in shaping the global narrative.

Inclusivity also infused India’s domestic approach to G20, making it a People’s Presidency that befits that world’s largest democracy. Through "Jan Bhagidari" (people's participation) events, G20 reached 1.4 billion citizens, involving all states and Union Territories (UTs) as partners. And on substantive elements, India ensured that international attention was directed to broader developmental aims, aligning with G20's mandate.

At the critical midpoint of the 2030 Agenda, India delivered the G20 2023 Action Plan to Accelerate Progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), taking a cross-cutting, action-oriented approach to interconnected issues, including health, education, gender equality and environmental sustainability.

A key area driving this progress is robust Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). Here, India was decisive in its recommendations, having witnessed the revolutionary impact of digital innovations like Aadhaar, UPI, and Digilocker first-hand. Through G20, we successfully completed the Digital Public Infrastructure Repository, a significant stride in global technological collaboration. This repository, featuring over 50 DPIs from 16 countries, will help the Global South build, adopt, and scale DPI to unlock the power of inclusive growth.

For our One Earth, we introduced ambitious and inclusive aims to create urgent, lasting, and equitable change. The Declaration’s ‘Green Development Pact' addresses the challenges of choosing between combating hunger and protecting the planet, by outlining a comprehensive roadmap where employment and ecosystems are complimentary, consumption is climate conscious, and production is planet-friendly. In tandem, the G20 Declaration calls for an ambitious tripling of global renewable energy capacity by 2030. Coupled with the establishment of the Global Biofuels Alliance and a concerted push for Green Hydrogen, the G20’s ambitions to build a cleaner, greener world is undeniable. This has always been India’s ethos, and through Lifestyles for Sustainable Development (LiFE), the world can benefit from our age-old sustainable traditions.

Further, the Declaration underscores our commitment to climate justice and equity, urging substantial financial and technological support from the Global North. For the first time, there was a recognition of the quantum jump needed in the magnitude of development financing, moving from billions to trillions of dollars. G20 acknowledged that developing countries require $5.9 trillion to fulfill their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by 2030.

Given the monumental resources required, G20 emphasized the importance of better, larger, and more effective Multilateral Development Banks. Concurrently, India is taking a leading role in UN reforms, especially in the restructuring of principal organs like the UN Security Council, that will ensure a more equitable global order.

Gender equality took center stage in the Declaration, culminating in the formation of a dedicated Working Group on the Empowerment of Women next year. India’s Women's Reservation Bill 2023, reserving one-third of India’s Parliament and state legislative assembly seats for women epitomizes our commitment to women-led development.

The New Delhi Declaration embodies a renewed spirit of collaboration across these key priorities, focusing on policy coherence, reliable trade, and ambitious climate action. It is a matter of pride that during our Presidency, G20 achieved 87 outcomes and 118 adopted documents, a marked rise from the past. 

During our G20 Presidency, India led deliberations on geopolitical issues and their impact on economic growth and development. Terrorism and the senseless killing of civilians is unacceptable, and we must address it with a policy of zero-tolerance. We must embody humanitarianism over hostility and reiterate that this is not an era of war. 

I am delighted that during our Presidency India achieved the extraordinary: it revitalized multilateralism, amplified the voice of the Global South, championed development, and fought for the empowerment of women, everywhere. As we hand over the G20 Presidency to Brazil, we do so with the conviction that our collective steps for people, planet, peace, and prosperity, will resonate for years to come.

Some two decades ago, rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus ) was almost unknown in Nepal. It was only used as an imported dried herb by exclusive Kathmandu restaurants and star hotels for seasoning foods, especially in continental cuisine, for its unique aroma. But in later years, rosemary plants were readily available in pots in the nurseries around the valley and soon turned into exotic household shrubbery in people’s garden collections. Rosemary is an aromatic, perennial evergreen shrub belonging to the mint family (Labiatae), native to the hills along the Mediterranean, Portugal, and northwestern Spain but now grown worldwide. 

Generally erect with needle-like, gray-green leaves, the shrubs can grow from four to six feet high. You only have to pinch or squeeze a few leaves between your fingers to check its sharp and zesty redolence. You can’t help but utter the word: Wow! Besides, rosemary serves as a condiment in culinary usage to accentuate the flavor or pair it with poultry, fish, lamb, soups, sauces, stews, and potatoes or pizza-garnishing. It can also jazz up non-alcoholic beverages like sparkling water, iced tea, and lemonade to turn them into a healthy drink.

For its woodsy solid flavor, slightly bitter and astringent, you must use it sparingly lest it gets the better of other spices and spoil your savory dish.  Further, the production of cosmetic and toiletry items, such as perfumes, soaps, creams, and lotions, utilizes rosemary. In Nepal, people also burn it as incense. And to go by history, the therapeutic herb, since times immemorial, has been used in folk medicine to alleviate several ailments from headache, stomach pain, arthritis, gout, and epilepsy to rheumatism, spasms, anxiety, hysteria, anxiety, depression, and dysmenorrhea. 

In Ayurveda treatments, too, the essential oil extracted from rosemary, known as Rujamari, is said to ease off in our metabolism, excess dosas like Vata and Kapha, and boost the Pitta. The oil extract from rosemary also serves as a tonic for the hair, improving negative thoughts and relieving fatigue. 

In both in vitro and in vivo investigations, the analysis led to the wonder herb’s rich source of iron, calcium, copper, and magnesium, with several vitamins like A, B, C, and E, as well as riboflavin and folate. Let’s look at other peer-reviewed and science-backed health-promoting benefits of rosemary, including folate and riboflavin.

Potential against the risk of Cancer

• Rosemary comprises carnosic acid and carnasol, compounds known for their potent antioxidant properties. Clinical studies have discovered that these elements help delay the progression or reproduction of cancer cells, reducing the risk of developing tumors.

Helps fight Diabetes

• Rosemary contains potent micronutrients like rosmarinic and carnosic acids, which exert insulin-like outcomes to help lower high blood sugar levels by promoting glucose absorption into body muscle cells. Clinical analysis shows rosemary extract and its polyphenolic constituents contain ant-hyperglycemic properties.

Improves blood circulation

• Efficient blood circulation in our body cells is crucial for our organs, like the heart, lungs, and muscles, to function adequately. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances in rosemary help improve blood circulation and cardiovascular health. 

Aids and reinforces the immune system

• The carnosic and rosmarinic acids in rosemary arm the herb with efficacious antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal qualities. Regular intake of rosemary herb can lower the risk of infection and help the immune system.   

Supports brain health

• The potent properties inherent in rosemary upgrade mental health and promote memory by boosting the acetylcholine in our nerve cells, acting as neurotransmitters, our body’s prime chemical messengers. Scientific studies have supported that the carnosic acid content in rosemary helps fight off damage by free radicals in the brain. 

Clinical studies have shown that rosemary may boost cognitive function and prevent memory loss in older adults or as we age. Believe it or not, scientists claim sniffing at rosemary improves memory by as high as 75 percent.

Fights stress and anxiety

• Rosemary may be used as a snuff to enhance mood as a part of aromatherapy, which remained practiced since ancient times. Simply inhaling the strong whiff of rosemary supposedly aids in lowering the cortisol levels in our blood to lower stress hormones, alleviate stress and anxiety, and improve sleep. 

Protects vision

• Research has led to the finding that the carnosic acid in rosemary slows down the age-related macular degeneration of our eyes, a leading cause of vision loss among the elderly.

Aids digestion and gut health

• A cup of rosemary tea after a meal serves as a remedy for digestion-related issues. It boosts the balance of healthy gut bacteria in our body, thus supporting digestion. 

Clinical studies have also shown that treatment with rosemary extract was effective in reducing colon tissue lesions, colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome. Furthermore, it was traditionally used as a natural cure for gastrointestinal issues like upset stomach, constipation, gas, and bloating, as it helps relax the intestine muscles. 

Good for respiratory health  

• For containing a property called cineole (eucalyptol), rosemary also treats inflammatory respiratory disorders, such as the common cold, bronchitis, and sinusitis. Drinking rosemary tea can offer relief if people get mucus buildup in the lungs. 

Regarding how to brew a cup of healing rosemary tea, pour boiling water over a fresh rosemary sprig or dried rosemary leaves, cover it, let it stay for 5 to 10 minutes, and then strain it. Voila, your healing herbal tea is ready.

Caveat

Care and caution are essential when you introduce rosemary into your diet plan. Maintaining moderation should take priority. The herb is usually safe when taken in low doses. Albeit side effects in ingesting it are rare, massive doses could cause possible side effects like: 

• Vomiting
• Spasms
• Coma
• Pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs), its 
• Further, pregnant women and children should avoid the intake of rosemary for its possible adverse effects

References: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov; webmed.com; himalayanhaat.org; aanmc.org; organicfacts.net; researchgate.net; mediaindia.net; pharmaeasy.in; medicalnewstoday.com; flushinghospital.org; intrepidmentalhealth.com; plantcraze.com

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the above text are solely research-based, not medical advice; the author solicits readers’ discretion and cross-references or consulting a healthcare provider for further verification.

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TikTok, originally launched in September 2016 in China, has swiftly risen to become the dominant website of 2021, surpassing even Google just three years after its global debut. The China-based short video hosting platform, featuring content ranging from 3 seconds to 10 minutes, boasts over two billion mobile downloads and a user base exceeding 1.6bn worldwide.

The rapid ascent of TikTok has undoubtedly sent shockwaves through long-standing social and information technology giants, prompting speculation about the impact of its meteoric success. It is not surprising that countries at the forefront of showcasing internet products, notably the United States, may have felt threatened by TikTok's rapid growth. Former President Donald Trump initiated a ban on TikTok in the USA in 2020, and now, under President Biden's administration, the company's CEO has testified before Congress. As a result, TikTok has established separate operations in the US. 

Approximately 70 percent of the US states have imposed restrictions on federal and state employees, prohibiting the use of TikTok on government devices. This trend extends globally, with Britain and New Zealand also implementing similar bans recently. Montana has notably become the first state in the US to completely ban TikTok. India banned TikTok in 2020 citing concerns about potential data misuse by the company under the influence of the Chinese government. Now Nepal has jumped on the bandwagon of countries banning TikTok.

The escalating tensions between the US and its allies against Chinese influence, encompassing various domains, notably the internet and technology sectors, have been conspicuous. This protracted economic rivalry and geopolitical power play reflect a larger global competition for supremacy. The contest to be the global commander involves strategic maneuvers and countermeasures, not solely in response to China's restrictions on foreign internet websites, but as part of a broader geopolitical strategy. However, the recent TikTok ban in Nepal appears to be an exception to this broader geopolitical game.

The "tap-tap" culture introduced by TikTok has had far-reaching consequences in Nepal. With internet penetration surpassing half of the population, a significant portion of the population is directly or indirectly exposed to TikTok content. Thousands of Nepali TikTok influencers leverage the platform to garner millions of engagements, often with content that may not be particularly thought-provoking or knowledge-intensive. The allure of these influencers prompts followers to send online gifts, often burning their hard-earned money.

It is important to note that not all TikTok content lacks substance; there are individuals producing meaningful and commendable content. However, the TikTok algorithm's impact on youth culture is a concern that extends beyond entertainment. The addictive nature of TikTok, with its endless scroll and short, engaging videos, has raised alarms about the potential for a decline in attention span, particularly among younger users. The constant consumption of content, customized to cater to individual preferences, can create a digital crevasse where users find themselves trapped in a loop of content that aligns with their existing interests.

Moreover, the emergence of self-proclaimed gurus, pundits, and specialists on TikTok, often lacking in authenticity and factual accuracy, poses a significant challenge. The platform's user base, especially those new to the internet and lacking cyber awareness, may readily embrace and internalize information without critical scrutiny. This can lead to the proliferation of misinformation and the elevation of individuals with unverified expertise. 

The rise of pseudo-experts on TikTok, providing health advice, dietary recommendations, or astrological predictions, undermines the credibility of genuine professionals in these fields. The influx of sensationalized content may dilute the nuanced understanding of professional capacities, potentially eroding the public's trust in expert advice.

The exploitation of visual sexualization and spoken vulgarity by youth users on TikTok, driven by the desire to become viral, raises valid concerns about the platform's appropriateness in family and public settings. The platform's openness and ease of access create challenges for parents in managing and controlling their children's exposure to potentially harmful material. The darker side of TikTok fame, with individuals experiencing overnight celebrity status followed by struggles and even mental health issues, highlights the psychological toll of chasing online validation. Then there are examples of tragic incidents, such as accidents resulting from risky behavior while attempting to create TikTok videos.

On the positive side, TikTok serves as a tool for business promotion, travel advice, and destination recommendations. The majority of the 2.2m active Nepali TikTok users engage with the platform not only for entertainment but also for market research and decision-making in purchasing products. While TikTok has undoubtedly provided a platform for those with genuine talents, the broader question arises about the risks and trade-offs associated with endorsing the platform for a few positive aspects.

The decision to ban TikTok may indeed prompt legal challenges from influencers, lawyers, and activists who argue that it infringes on constitutional rights such as freedom of speech, access to information, and media independence. However, if the government can provide a proper justification, the ban will prevail as bigger democracies in the neighborhood, Europe, and parts of Africa have continued to ban the platform.

Banning internet products should not be the default solution unless there is a lack of self-awareness and discernment among users. TikTok, along with platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, should have been subject to close surveillance due to evident cases of users engaging in impersonation, generating explicit content, spreading misinformation for personal gains, and fostering a culture of verbal abuse and hatred. In a country like ours where lawmakers understand 'e-commerce' as selling electricity, we cannot expect a nuanced policy that addresses platform misuse and promotes positive use.

The prevailing tendency toward a black or white policy—either 'allow' if it works or 'ban' if it doesn't—reveals a lack of thorough research and strategic decision-making by the administration. This failure is particularly evident in the case of TikTok, where a blanket ban has been implemented instead of a targeted approach to address specific content-related issues. The ban may have stemmed from the involvement of political leaders in numerous scandals as well as the alleged use of the platform to promote social disharmony and casteism. The new directive on social network operations should serve as a catalyst for formulating comprehensive laws regulating social media.

Without such regulations, other platforms with similar algorithms and content, such as Facebook or Instagram reels and YouTube Shorts, may face similar bans. If lawmakers channel their collective efforts into establishing robust rules, there is a possibility that TikTok could be reinstated with certain changes like in Pakistan where the ban was revoked within two weeks. It is evident that the future will be increasingly reliant on internet products. So it is imperative to draft and implement regulations promptly in such a way that there is sufficient room for refinement based on evolving needs.

Competition is rife in today’s world that is struggling to overcome the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and several other adversities like international tensions.   

Millions of people are struggling for well-paid jobs in a knowledge-based society and want high living standards. Of course, a good education is a prerequisite for getting a good job, but it is hardly enough. Factors like technical-practical skills, knowledge and relevant experience also matter a lot when it comes to landing a job, plum or not.

Today’s job market requires that an ideal candidate has adequate skills, training, relevant experiences and a sound academic background, among other factors.   

Even if a candidate in question has an excellent academic background, s/he often has to be content with a junior position in the absence of relevant skills/expertise and experience.   

Technical skills should be given top priority while hiring for technical jobs, whereas knowledge of diverse areas (general knowledge) should be a major criterion for candidates wishing to join public service. 

By conducting an interview, interest, aptitude and creativity of a candidate wishing to land a job can be assessed along with academic qualification. By the way, non-academic life skills like driving also enhance the prospects of job-seekers.

While selecting a candidate, appropriate standard/principle/medium should be employed with an eye also on criteria like academic qualification, accountability, personality, punctuality, honesty, a pragmatic bent of mind as well as technical skills. 

An academic degree is the result  of one’s hard-work and  patience. But an education system should not dissociate itself from practical aspects of life. Degrees without practical experiences cannot be  useful enough in today’s job market that requires diverse skills and expertise.  

Individuals with high degrees lacking skills to complete a simple task do not bode well for an education system. 

A job market requires candidates who are smart, capable,  educated, experienced, focused and laborious.

While education gives an individual theoretical knowledge and analytical skills to show why something does not work, experience teaches that ‘doing  a thing in a certain way does not work’. 

No doubt a medical student can be a better doctor and management student a better manager because universities design courses catering to the needs of respective sectors. Generally, an academically qualified person can obtain related practical skills better and  earlier in a relevant field of  work. Hence, academic degree, internship, dissertations based on field survey and positive  thinking with a well working  attitude  should be the job.

Traditionally, obtaining an academic degree has been our main priority, while recent years have seen a shift in priority toward acquiring skills and expertise. 

An ideal candidate should have skills and expertise along with an excellent academic background. Different philosophers have offered their nuggets of wisdom on theoretical and practical knowledge. There’s no doubt that candidates need different skill sets to stay relevant in today’s job market.
Big multinationals like Google, Facebook and Amazon, for example, are hiring  people with adequate  skills rather than academic degrees. This is because there is no guarantee that those holding academic degrees will be able to solve problems facing the real world.

The country’s education sector should be  overhauled with a greater emphasis on vocational education. Our university education must accord top priority to fields like agriculture, fisheries, forestry and rural technology with a vision to modernize them as per our needs. Social science programs must be launched at universities after conducting surveys on the country’s human resources requirement.    

Summing up, in the post-Covid era, increased focus should be on honing professional expertise and skills through education and training for effectively fighting adverse impacts resulting from the pandemic.

The author is a former Deputy Executive Director of TEPC under the  Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies