Counterview

By Priya Sharma, Dr. Mansee Bal Bhargava  On April 17, 2025, a Lake Walk at Ulsoor Lake hosted by Drop Talk brought together citizens and experts to reflect on the urgent need for connecting science and society in conserving Bengaluru’s lakes. The session, part of the ongoing Lake-Pond and Water Education series by Dr. Mansee Bal Bhargava, featured Prof. T. V. Ramachandra of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), a leading voice in ecological research and advocacy.  

By Prof. Hementkumar Shah  Organic farming refers to cultivation without the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. However, the buying and selling of bio-fertilizers is allowed in it. Natural farming means using inputs that are locally available. In India, the term “organic farming” is often used for “natural farming” as well.

By Bharat Dogra   If the most important question relating to development, livelihoods and environmental protection is to be identified, it is likely to be this: can small farmers cultivate their land in economically viable ways while also protecting the soil and water base for sustainability, producing enough healthy food for themselves and others, and contributing to climate mitigation and adaptation ?

By Nava Thakuria  The recent electoral victories of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies in the eastern Indian States of West Bengal and Assam have drawn varied responses in Bangladesh. For many observers in Dhaka , the outcome represents not only a regional political shift in India but also a development with possible implications for India-Bangladesh relations , border management, migration debates, and regional security.

By Bhabani Shankar Nayak  Mallorca adorns the Mediterranean Sea as one of the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, where rolling hills descend into the sea. Its beautiful cliffs whisper the fantasies of ancient caves, while a combination of sandy and stony beaches and dense pine forests welcomes the sunrise and sunset as part of nature’s daily ritual, bringing joy to holidaymakers. From prehistoric settlements to the modern era, Mallorca has witnessed the rise and fall of kingdoms, dynasties, caliphates, empires, invasions, pirates, rulers, and civilizations.

By Harsh Thakor*  Mike Smith defied conventions to create a new aura in cricket, epitomising unselfishness as few cricketers ever did. M.J.K. Smith, or Michael John Knight Smith, an accomplished batsman and highly popular captain of England in the mid-1960s, passed away on May 17th at the age of 92. His exploits on the cricket field and his personality will remain etched in the memory of lovers of the game.