The 11th Katha Session was held at the India Foundation office on 26 February 2026 on the theme “Pirate Gods of the Caribbean.” The session was chaired by Mr. Côme Carpentier, Distinguished Fellow, India Foundation and witnessed the participation of 32 attendees.

The session was delivered by Ms. Ewa Sapieżyńska, a Polish–Norwegian writer, journalist, and scholar of Latin American studies. She holds a PhD in Social Sciences from Universidad de Chile and has written extensively on Latin America for publications in Norway and Poland.

In her presentation, Ms. Sapieżyńska focused on the religious and cultural traditions of Cuba and Venezuela. She explained how African deities became associated with Catholic saints through the process of religious syncretism, leading to the development of traditions such as Santería. She also discussed how the pantheon of saints has continued to evolve over time, incorporating political and historical figures alongside traditional religious icons.

The session provided participants with insights into the historical and cultural connections between Africa, Latin America, and Christianity in the Caribbean region. The presentation was followed by an interactive discussion, during which attendees engaged with the speaker on various aspects of religion, culture, and identity in Cuba and Venezuela.

India Foundation, in collaboration with India Habitat Centre, organised a panel discussion on “New Regimes in Bangladesh and Myanmar: India’s Eastern Front at the Crossroads?” at Gulmohar Hall, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, on 18 February 2026. The session was moderated by Rami Niranjan Desai, Distinguished Fellow, India Foundation and featured Shri Rajinder Khanna, Former Additional National Security Advisor of India; Professor Sreeradha Datta, Professor, Jindal School of International Affairs, O.P. Jindal Global University; Shree Gautam Mukhopadhyaya, former Ambassador of India to Syria, Afghanistan & Myanmar.

The discussion started by examining Myanmar’s internal political situation, noting that recent elections held under military control lacked legitimacy due to the exclusion of opposition parties and the coercive environment in which the elections took place. It was also mentioned that these elections were unlikely to change the reality on the ground significantly, and the resistance against the military regime remains widespread and deeply rooted in society, including by the pro-democracy groups and ethnic armed organisations that continue to challenge the regime, even with limited coordination and resources, thereby reflecting a greater demand for democratic governance and federal restructuring.

A major concern raised during the conversation was the role of external actors, especially China. It was pointed out that China has intervened strategically to protect its economic and geopolitical interests, influencing developments on the ground and complicating the conflict dynamics.  It was suggested that India should rethink its approach, engage more actively with a broader range of stakeholders in Myanmar instead of just focusing on the regime.

The discussion then turned to Bangladesh’s recent elections. It was argued that although the electoral process was relatively orderly and used modern technology, it was not inclusive due to the absence of major opposition parties; there were concerns about the legitimacy and long-term stability of the political system due to the exclusion of key opposition groups, but the voter turnout, especially among young people, was significant, showing ongoing political engagement. It was also noted that social media is becoming an influential factor in shaping political narratives, often leading to misinformation and polarisation. Despite this, Bangladesh continues to focus on economic growth and regional cooperation, expanding its diplomatic ties beyond traditional partners.

The panel also explored the implications of these events for India, emphasising that political changes in neighbouring countries can offer chances for extremist groups or foreign powers to increase their influence, making it crucial to maintain strong intelligence cooperation, effective border management, and ongoing diplomatic engagement. Although Bangladesh is trying to balance its relations with various global actors, India remains an important partner in trade, connectivity, and security.

At the end of the discussion, the panelists concluded that the ongoing political changes in Bangladesh and Myanmar present both challenges and opportunities for India. As these countries go through complex transitions, a balanced and forward-looking strategy based on cooperation, engagement, and strategic awareness will be key to ensuring regional stability and strengthening India’s eastern frontier.

As part of the ongoing lecture series “RSS @100: Centenary Reflections,” organised by India Foundation during the centenary year of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a special lecture was delivered by Dr. David Frawley on 16 February 2026. The series seeks to promote informed academic discussion on the history, ideology, and societal contributions of the RSS through interactions with distinguished scholars and practitioners.

David Frawley reflected on his intellectual and spiritual journey from the United States to India, explaining how his early exposure to Indian philosophy, yoga, and Vedic literature shaped his understanding of Indian civilization. He described his study of Sanskrit texts, his engagement with institutions associated with Sri Aurobindo, Ayurveda, and Hindu thought, and his interactions with several RSS leaders over the decades.

Speaking about the RSS, Frawley characterized it as a service-oriented organization dedicated to preserving and promoting India’s civilizational values. He argued that the RSS has contributed not only through social service activities but also by fostering cultural continuity, education, and intellectual engagement. According to him, the organization has played an important role in maintaining and strengthening India’s cultural identity during periods of political and social change. He also highlighted the global influence of Indian traditions such as yoga, Ayurveda, and Vedanta, noting that interest in these traditions continues to grow across different parts of the world.

Looking ahead, Frawley stressed the importance of strengthening civilizational confidence among younger generations and integrating Indian philosophical traditions more deeply into education and public discourse. He argued that India possesses intellectual and spiritual resources that can help address contemporary global challenges, including those arising from rapid technological and social change. Concluding his remarks, he expressed optimism about the future of the RSS and India’s broader civilizational resurgence, emphasizing the need to preserve traditional knowledge while engaging constructively with the modern world.

The lecture was attended by scholars, researchers, policy professionals, and members of the academic community.

On January 29, 2026, India Foundation, in collaboration with Dalberg Advisors, hosted a “High-Level Policy Dialogue on Electrifying Sectors, Greening Electricity,” at the Leela Palace, New Delhi. Attended by over 30 representatives of industry, think tanks, and philanthropic foundations, the Policy Dialogue, underscored the need and pathways to the electrification of crucial sectors of the economy, and the combination of the goals of electrification with decarbonisation and India’s net-zero target. It featured the participation of Shri Pralhad Joshi, the Honourable Minister of New & Renewable Energy; and Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Government of India, as the Chief Guest. Shri Ghanshyam Prasad, Chairperson, Central Electricity Authority, Government of India, joined the convening as the Guest of Honour.

The discussions commenced with outlining the goals envisaged by the Draft National Electricity Policy, 2026, viz. industrial competitiveness, affordability, and sustainability, while achieving expanded transmission networks, reliability, and increasing the reliance on renewable energy to 500 GW. The discussions underscored the distinction between states relying on hydrocarbons to fulfill their energy requirements, and states that have transitioned to electricity. While India retained the characteristics of a petro-state, it was suggested that the direction of policy to make it an electro-state is unmistakable, as revealed by its ambitious electrification agenda, encompassing terrestrial logistics, electric mobility, and the solarisation of agriculture production and processing.

Despite clear direction in policy towards electrification and decarbonisation, challenges abound. The policy thrust towards renewables has not translated into quicker decarbonisation and capacity generation of renewables, in stark contrast to the Chinese experience. Not only has the consumption of hydrocarbons increased; but shifting to renewable energy sources has not been accompanied by efficiencies and affordability. The micro-,small-, and medium-scale enterprises continue to rely on traditional sources of energy, and renewables have not tapped India’s rural economy. Although the exposure to climate assets has ballooned, transitions have increased the debt of the utility. Long approval windows and poor inter-state coordination have hampered electricity transmission and modernisation projects. The gap between the transmission and generation of electricity owes to the paucity of demand.

However, the discussants noted with optimism that India has been continuously outperforming on its energy transition targets. Optimising its vast solar potential, over 132 GW of installed capacity is being followed by 80 GW, which is currently in the pipeline. By 2030, India foresees an investment of USD 350 billion in the electrification of its sectors and energy transition. 5,00,000 sq/km oft transmission lines have already been set up, though the state transmission and reliability of discoms need to be improved. India has taken significant steps towards grid stabilisation and integration, allowing load-sharing. Investments worth INR 90,000 crores in green corridors will help achieve the concerns of a sustainable transition. The proliferation of data centres and electric mobility will push the demand for power near an 8-9% CAGR, which will inevitably impel robust and dynamic plans for achieving adequacy.

The event ended on a note of cautious optimism, emphasising that, at the current stage of development, stability of grids and achieving a balance between electrical and hydrocarbon-led energy is paramount. Dynamism in approach and implementation needs to be coupled with a more comprehensive participation of states in grid stabilisation and its sustainable transition. Building access, affordability, and adaptability, alongside boosting capabilities in grid storage and hydro-power potential will ensure a just, timely, and economically and environmentally sustainable transition.

As part of the centenary year of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), India Foundation launched the lecture series “RSS @100: Centenary Reflections” to facilitate academic discussions on the organisation’s hundred-year journey.

The series aims to encourage informed reflection on the historical, ideological, and societal dimensions of the RSS by bringing together scholars, researchers, and practitioners who have either been associated with the organisation or have studied it extensively.

The inaugural lecture was held on 29 January 2026 at the India Foundation office. The session featured Mr. Walter Anderson, renowned author and scholar, whose work on the RSS is widely recognised for its depth and academic rigor. During the discussion, Mr. Anderson shared insights from his long-standing research on the organization. The lecture provided participants with an opportunity to engage with the historical trajectory of the RSS and discuss its continued relevance in contemporary India.

Walter Anderson reflected on his long academic engagement with the RSS, which began in the late 1960s while researching the organisation for his dissertation. He noted that many scholars at the time underestimated the future growth of the RSS, whereas his mentors believed it would become an influential institution. Drawing from his interactions with senior RSS leaders such as Eknath Ranade, M.S. Golwalkar, and later Mohan Bhagwat, Anderson argued that the RSS should be understood not merely as a political organisation but as a social institution that has focused on building networks, community spaces, and organisational discipline. He identified three key elements that shaped the RSS: a strong organisational structure, a shared ideological commitment often expressed through patriotism, and a dedicated cadre of full-time workers who sustain its activities.

Anderson highlighted the concept of the shakha as a social space where individuals from different backgrounds can interact and develop a sense of community. He observed that RSS leaders, particularly Golwalkar and Balasaheb Deoras, recognised social challenges such as caste divisions and sought to address them through organisational practices. He noted Deoras’ efforts to expand the organisation’s social outreach and his emphasis on issues such as untouchability and social inclusion. Anderson also discussed the RSS’s attempts to broaden its engagement with different sections of society, including rural communities, while acknowledging that outreach to Muslims and Christians remains a challenge.

Reflecting on the RSS at its centenary, Anderson argued that the organisation has evolved significantly from a small group founded in 1925 into one of the world’s largest voluntary organisations with influence across education, labour, social service, and politics. He noted that while the RSS has become more visible and politically influential, it continues to function through internal consultation and debate rather than strict top-down decision-making.

The session witnessed the participation of scholars, researchers, and members of the policy and academic community.

10th Katha Session of India Foundation was held on 29 January 2026 on the theme “Ghosts of Thailand.”

The session was chaired by Mr. Côme Carpentier, Distinguished Fellow, India Foundation. The speaker for the session was Mr. Putt Punyagupta, a Thai Nehru-Fulbright Scholar currently spending a year in India.

During the session, Mr. Punyagupta introduced participants to Thailand’s rich traditions of folklore, ghost stories, and supernatural beliefs. He discussed the cultural significance of ghosts in Thai society and explained how these narratives continue to influence local customs, religious practices, and popular culture. The presentation also explored the relationship between traditional beliefs and Buddhism in shaping Thai cultural life.

Mr. Punyagupta also shared insights from his academic and cultural experiences, bringing a unique perspective to the discussion.

On January 29, 2026, India Foundation and the Hudson Institute co-hosted a closed-door virtual roundtable discussion on “Sovereign AI and the US-India Strategic Partnership.”

The distinguished speakers were Shri Jayant Sinha, Former Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Finance, Government of India; Mr. Pablo Chavez, Adjunct Senior Fellow with CNAS’s Technology and National Security Program and former Vice President of Google Cloud’s global public policy; and Shri Sujeet Kumar, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha). The discussion was held under the Chatham House Rule and was attended by 25 participants.

India Foundation, in collaboration with India Habitat Centre, organised a book discussion on the book After Me, Chaos: Astrology in the Mughal Empire by Shri M. J. Akbar, Author & Former Union Minister, Government of India, at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, on 21st January 2026. The session was moderated by Captain Alok Bansal, Executive Vice President, India Foundation. The panel featured Shri Sudhanshu Trivedi, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha); Ms. Shazia Ilmi, National Spokesperson, Bharatiya Janata Party; and Mr. Come Carpentier, Distinguished Fellow, India Foundation. The discussion examined the intersections of science, governance, and civilisational knowledge in Mughal India, with a focus on reassessing historical narratives surrounding astrology and statecraft.

The panel deliberated on the commonly held perception that astrology and Mughal governance were incompatible and highlighted how astrological knowledge was institutionally embedded within imperial administration. Drawing on primary sources such as the Ain-i-Akbari, Baburnama, Humayunama, Akbarnama, and Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri, speakers noted that astrology informed key decisions, including coronations, military campaigns, succession planning, and court rituals. Extensive astrological references in Mughal chronicles were cited as evidence of its formal role in governance.

A key focus of the discussion was the transmission of Indian astronomical knowledge—particularly Aryabhata-based methods—into Mughal administrative practice. The panelists highlighted the establishment of formal positions such as Jyotishraj and the inclusion of Sanskrit-trained scholars, underscoring a synthesis of Indic, Persian, and Islamic intellectual traditions rather than rigid religious compartmentalisation.

The discussion also addressed how colonial and ideological historiography selectively marginalised astrology in Mughal narratives despite its prominence in original sources. Beyond administrative use, astrology was discussed as a philosophical framework that encouraged humility, detachment, and an understanding of natural order within governance. The session concluded with a consensus that After Me, Chaos restores nuance and complexity to India’s historical understanding and reinforces the idea of knowledge as a shared civilisational inheritance shaped by continuity, assimilation, and intellectual exchange.

India Foundation, in collaboration with India Habitat Centre, organised a panel discussion on ‘India’s Success in Curbing Left-Wing Extremism’ at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi on 6^th January 2026. The panel featured Shri Rajiv Gauba, Former Cabinet Secretary, Government of India and Member, NITI Aayog; Shri Pankaj Kumar Singh, Former Deputy National Security Advisor of India; and Shri Shekhar Gupta, Editor-in-Chief, The Print. The discussion was moderated by Shri Alok Bansal, Executive Vice President, India Foundation.

The panel deliberated on India’s multi-pronged approach to tackling Left-Wing Extremism, highlighting improvements in security operations, governance outreach, development interventions, and the importance of winning public trust in affected regions. The discussion offered valuable insights into the evolution of the LWE threat and the strategies that have significantly weakened it in recent years.

The panelists traced the origins of Left-Wing Extremism to the late 1960s and highlighted how governance gaps, socio-economic deprivation, and ideological mobilisation allowed Maoist groups to expand across large parts of central and eastern India. Drawing on first-hand administrative and operational experience, they recalled the gravity of the situation during the early 2000s, when large areas were effectively outside state control, marked by frequent attacks on security forces, civilian casualties, and systematic destruction of infrastructure.

A key focus of the discussion was the decisive shift after 2014-15, when the government adopted a comprehensive national policy and action plan. The panelists emphasised the effectiveness of a “whole-of-government” approach that combined robust security measures with focused development interventions. Expansion of road and telecom connectivity, establishment of forward security camps, welfare delivery through flagship schemes, implementation of forest rights, and strengthening of state police capacities were identified as crucial elements in reversing Maoist influence.

The panelists also underscored the importance of improved intelligence gathering, inter-state coordination, deployment of specialised forces, and sustained action against the financial and urban support networks of extremist groups. These efforts, they noted, have led to a sharp decline in violence, casualties, and the number of affected districts. The discussion concluded with a consensus that while the security gains are substantial, lasting peace will depend on sustained governance reforms, protection of tribal rights, accountability of institutions, and continued vigilance to prevent the resurgence of extremist ideologies.