Avinash Godbole

Beijing is choking (and can't hide it anymore)

Beijing’s smog, while recurrent, has been at its worst this winter and is an example of what is wrong with China’s political economy.

Change of Guard in China: The Context and the Actors

Due to circumstances prevailing inside and outside China, a lot is expected from the new leaders and thus this leadership change is a vastly important process for China and for the world.

Xi Jinping’s Mysterious Disappearance amidst Uncertain Political Environment

Xi Jinping’s sudden disappearance, close to the date of the 18th Party Congress when he is to take over as the as the next President, has activated the rumour mill in China and the world. The unfolding political drama in Beijing resembles the climax of an action packed thriller.

Alienated People and an Overcautious state in China’s Xinjiang

While China’s desire for economic prosperity in Xinjiang may be achievable, it has not seemingly found any solution to the sense of alienation felt by the local Uighurs.

China’s Xinjiang Problem: The 2009 Riots and its Aftermath

Despite focused efforts undertaken by China in the aftermath of the 2009 riots, it has not been able to and, perhaps may never be able to, answer the structural problems of the Uighur discontent in Xinjiang.

History and Politics; Critiquing the PRC’s Approach to the 1911 Centenary Celebrations

Celebrations of the 1911 Revolution show that history is subject to interpretations, most often in the ways in which it suits contemporary political objectives.

China's Aircraft Carrier: Some Observations

China’s aircraft carrier programme will not only affect the balance of power in the Asia Pacific region but also add impetus to the Chinese maritime intent.

How to look at President Hu Jintao’s US Visit: Détente or Stalemate?

Primarily because of the uncertainties surrounding US-China relations, the Hu-Obama summit ended in a stalemate with both leaders agreeing to disagree on important matters.

China and the Energy Equation in Asia: The Determinants of Policy Choice by Jean A. Garrison

Mosque and Quran, Faith and Multiculturalism: An Indian Perspective

A pastor’s resolve to burn the Quran is threatening to undo the progress in promoting inter-community relations. India’s legal and constitutional provisions and long experience in dealing with such situations could be of use in defusing situations like these and create a niche for an Indian perspective on contemporary international relations.