Professor Sumantra Bose discusses Kashmir’s evolving geopolitical landscape on Al Jazeera, BBC Sounds and The New York Times

Professor Sumantra Bose, Professor, International and Comparative Politics, SIAS, has recently drawn significant media attention for his insights into the shifting geopolitical dynamics between India and Pakistan.

On 25 April 2025, Professor Bose appeared on Inside Story on Al Jazeera, where he discussed the escalating tensions following the tragic Pahalgam attack in Jammu & Kashmir. He emphasised the deepening crisis and the potential for further destabilisation in the region. The episode explored the impact of the attack on bilateral relations and what it may signal for the future. Watch the full discussion here.

In a follow-up article published on 28 April 2025, titled ‘Burst balloon’: How Pahalgam attack shattered Modi’s Kashmir narrative, Professor Bose critically examined how the attack has disrupted the Indian government’s long-standing narrative of stability and normalcy in Kashmir, exposing key flaws in its approach. Read the full article here.

Most recently, on 1 May 2025, he featured on The Briefing Room on BBC Sounds in a BBC Radio 4 episode titled ‘Are India and Pakistan on the brink of war over Kashmir?’, offering expert commentary on the historical and current dimensions of the conflict. Listen to the episode here.

The same day, The New York Times featured a detailed report on the Pahalgam attack and its aftermath, titled India Blames Pakistan After Kashmir Attack Kills 25 Tourists. Professor Bose was among the key experts cited, offering a sobering assessment of the region’s volatility and the dangers of renewed escalation. He noted how such events reflect underlying tensions that have long remained unresolved and pointed to the urgent need for a more thoughtful, historically informed approach to regional peace. Read the full article here

A leading authority on South Asian politics, Professor Bose is the author of Kashmir at the Crossroads: Inside a 21st-Century Conflict (Yale, 2021; Picador India in the subcontinent, and updated Picador India paperback, 2024), which provides a compelling, deeply informed account of the Kashmir conflict from 1947 to the present.

His expertise continues to shape discourse on South Asian politics, providing nuanced perspectives on complex regional issues.

Before joining Krea University, Professor Bose held a Chair at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), where he taught and conducted research for nearly two decades.

His acclaimed publications include:

  • Secular States, Religious Politics: India, Turkey, and the Future of Secularism (Cambridge University Press, 2018)
  • Transforming India: Challenges to the World’s Largest Democracy (Harvard University Press, 2013)

Dr Sambaiah Gundimeda delivers a talk at Telangana University

​Dr Sambaiah Gundimeda, Associate Professor and Discipline Coordinator, Politics, SIAS was invited by Telangana University, Nizamabad, Telangana, to deliver a talk at a webinar held on 13 April 2025, marking the 134th birth anniversary of Dr B R Ambedkar. The webinar was titled “Relevance of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s Thoughts in the 21st Century.” In his address, ​Dr Gundimeda focused on three key aspects of reservations concerning the Dalit community: education, employment, and political representation. He argued that while reservations—particularly in education and employment—have contributed to the emergence of a small Dalit middle class, political reservations have largely failed to empower marginalised communities. Instead, he contended, they have led to the creation of what Kanshi Ram called “political slaves” or chamchas of the upper-caste leadership.

According to ​D​r Gundimeda, the voice of Dalits in caste- and religion-based political formations can only be meaningfully heard when Dalits have their own independent political entities. He also explored Ambedkar’s ideas on the annihilation of caste and religious conversion as means of social emancipation. ​Dr Gundimeda concluded by asserting that transforming India’s vertical social hierarchy into a horizontal one is possible only when the marginalised gain real political power.

Professor Madhuri Saripalle gives Visiting Faculty Lectures at University of Catania and Ragusa

Professor Madhuri Saripalle, Professor, Economics and MBA Chair, IFMR GSB recently gave two lectures as visiting faculty at the University of Catania and Ragusa. Professor Saripalle gave a lecture on urban mobility to PhD students at the university and also a lecture on agribusiness supply chains to the undergraduate economics students at Ragusa. The University of Catania, founded in 1434, is the oldest university in Sicily and is a unique blend of ancient civilization with a modern curriculum adapting to the needs of the new generation. The visit was supported by the IFMR fund for the visiting faculty exchange program at Krea University. She also had a chance to interact with the head of the Department, Dr Roberto Cellini, and the hosts- Professors Luca Ruggeiro and MariaOlivella Rizza and other faculty members.

Synergy 2025: IFMR and Krea University Bring Together Leading Thinkers to Tackle Grand Challenges in Development

Sri City, February 8, 2025 – IFMR and Krea University hosted Synergy 2025, an annual flagship event designed to bring together leading academics, policymakers, and industry leaders to shape data-driven solutions for pressing developmental challenges. Through interdisciplinary dialogue, the event catalysed action to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and strengthen governance mechanisms in India.

Speaking at the inaugural session, Krea University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Nirmala Rao, noted that “Synergy is a unique platform for the academic community to engage, debate, and critically analyse some of the most pressing issues in development, focusing on solutions and action.” 

A key highlight of the event was the inaugural N Vaghul Memorial Lecture, honouring the legacy of the late Shri Narayanan Vaghul. Delivering the inaugural lecture, Mr S Krishnan, Secretary, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, highlighted the transformative impact of AI and the tectonic shifts in this space. He emphasized the role of foundational research and evidence in developing inclusive AI solutions rooted in the country’s linguistic and cultural diversity.

In line with the event’s focus on data-driven development, Synergy 2025 also marked a key milestone in strengthening government-academia collaboration. The Government of Meghalaya and IFMR signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance data systems, foster innovation, and drive efficient policy implementation. The agreement, signed by Dr Sampath Kumar, Principal Secretary and Development Commissioner, Government of Meghalaya and Mr Kapil Viswanathan, President, IFMR, builds on Meghalaya’s pioneering initiatives in data-driven governance and underscores the importance of evidence-based policymaking.

The event also featured a keynote lecture by Dr Karthik Muralidharan, Tata Chancellor’s Professor of Economics, UC San Diego and a panel discussion on enhancing state capacity including dignitaries: Dr Sampath Kumar, Government of Meghalaya; Ms Arti Ahuja, Former Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment; Dr Veena Srinivasan, Executive Director, WELL Labs, Dr Karthik Muralidharan, and Ms Deepthi Reddy, Chief – Women Empowerment, Reliance Foundation. 

Padma Shri Dr Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Founder & Former President, IIT Madras Research Park, delivered a special address that emphasised research and industry collaborations. Stressing the inherent risks involved in research, he underscored the need for mechanisms that encourage risk-taking, enabling breakthroughs that can redefine industries and improve lives.

A Unique Research Ecosystem Driving Change

The IFMR and Krea ecosystem is a hub for innovative thinking and action with a portfolio of eight interdisciplinary research centres:  WELL Labs, LEAD at Krea University, JPAL South Asia, Centre for Digital Financial Inclusion (CDFI), Catalyst Atal Incubation Centre, Inclusion Economics India Centre, IWWAGE, and Sapien Labs Centre for the Human Brain and Mind, including partnerships with institutions such as Yale University, MIT, and policy entities such as NITI Aayog, Ministry of Rural Development, and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology,  IFMR Graduate School of Business and the School of Interwoven Arts and Sciences.

The event featured an Ecosystem Showcase, where the research centres presented cutting-edge work across diverse themes, including financial inclusion, climate action, digital access, education, and public health. Faculty and students engaged with policymakers and thought leaders to explore solutions that can address India’s most pressing developmental challenges. The discussions set the stage for future collaborations, reinforcing the need for data-driven solutions and interdisciplinary approaches to tackle complex challenges.

Image Courtesy : Media Lab & Siddharth Ravikant

Moments and memories that made Prarambh 2024 unforgettable

Article by Oshi Kumari, MBA Cohort of 2023-2025

This past week, the Krea University campus welcomed the incoming MBA Cohort of 2024-2026 at IFMR GSB. The air was filled with anticipation as students embarked on their MBA journey, starting with a grand introduction to Kreaverse and the diverse lineup of clubs and committees at IFMR GSB as part of the Orientation Programme – Prarambh 2024.

One of the significant parts of the event was vibrant showcases from clubs such as Raga, Abhinay, Nritya, and Laasya. These clubs enthralled everyone with mesmerising music performances, captivating dramas, and energetic dance routines, perfectly reflecting the dynamic and colourful spirit of life at the B-School beyond the classrooms.

The excitement didn’t stop there! Committees like Arthasabha, Genesis, Abhyudaya, Consulting, Shutterbugs, MUN, Markaholic, Samarthan, Sanchalan, Synergy, Analytics, ER Alcomm, Q Team, Speakers, and Sportscomm made their mark with engaging introductions and interactive activities. Each committee brought its unique flair, ensuring that the new cohort was fully immersed in the multifaceted life at IFMR GSB.

Anusha Jain, from the MBA Cohort of 2023-2025 and a member of the organising committee, shared, “Organising the introductory event for juniors was exhilarating. Their enthusiasm promises an electrifying year of dance and camaraderie.”

Reflecting on her experience, Sohini Sikdar from the incoming MBA Cohort of 2024-2026 added, “The events organised by clubs and committees were a game-changer. They helped me break out of my shell, rediscover my interests, and enjoy unforgettable moments with my batchmates.”

From finance challenges to marketing games, debates, and sports, each moment was packed with fun, learning, and camaraderie. The CNC program was a rollercoaster of unforgettable experiences. Here’s to a year filled with growth, teamwork, and countless memories ahead!

IFMR GSB at Krea University welcomes incoming MBA cohort at Prarambh 2024

IFMR GSB at Krea University welcomes incoming MBA cohort at Prarambh 2024

03 July, 2024, Sri City

IFMR Graduate School of Business (GSB), Krea University welcomed the new cohort of MBA students with Prarambh – the orientation programme slated from 3 – 7 July. The session is packed with engaging sessions from leadership, faculty, staff, and students.

Prarambh 2024 witnessed the Krea community extending a warm welcome to the incoming cohort, both academically and socially. The incoming class comprises 250+ students from 22 states across the country who have been through a holistic admission process which evaluates applicants with tailor made rounds catering to diverse aspirants.

Speaking to the students at the inaugural ceremony, Chief Guest Divakar Jain; Leader, Risk & Financial Advisory at Deloitte, US-India Office shared insights from his two decades long journey across the professional spectrum and the lessons he gathered along the way. He emphasised how important agility is in today’s world and the need to constantly unlearn and learn something new.

He imparted the mantra of three Cs to the eager students, “Courage, creativity and communication – have the courage to speak up and say the right thing, be creative enough amid the advancement of technology and communicate truthfully and directly.”

In her welcome address, Professor Lakshmi Kumar, Dean, IFMR GSB, Krea University said, “You may think you prefer a core area but may find something more interesting and relevant. Rethink your choices in the first year, and our competent faculty will guide you through the process. We aren’t shy to say, we are a professional programme where we teach you knowledge and skills which make you employable.”

Image Courtesy : Shutterbugs

In her address, Professor Madhuri Saripalle, Chairperson, MBA Programme, IFMR GSB, Krea University added, “Welcome to the beginning of a remarkable journey. We are going to give you the hard wiring, and you have to ultimately connect them. We will provide you the interdisciplinary curriculum to equip you with a wide range of skills and knowledge.”

Soumyabrata Basu, PhD student, IFMR GSB presented a paper and chaired a session at a conference in Portugal

Soumyabrata Basu, a PhD student at IFMR GSB, Krea University, presented a paper titled Creditor Rights and Firm’s Cost of Debt: Empirical Evidence from Indian Firms at the prestigious 33rd European Financial Management Association Conference, held at the Lisbon School of Economics and Management in Portugal. The paper was co-authored with Dr Praveen Bhagawan, Associate Professor and Area Chair of Finance, Accounting, and Quantitative Finance, IFMR GSB, and Dr Jyoti Prasad Mukhopadhyay, Associate Professor and Area Chair of Economics, IFMR GSB. In addition to presenting, Soumyabrata Basu also served as a Session Chair for one of the presentation tracks.

Dr Bharath Sundaram Highlights Complex Challenges at Pulicat Lake at the Centre for Modern Indian Studies (CeMIS), Georg-August University, Gottingen, Germany

Dr Bharath Sundaram, Sundram Fasteners Associate Professor of Environmental Studies, SIAS, Faculty Director, Krea – IFMR Research Centres Coordination Cell, and Sustainability Officer, Krea University and Sharon Buteau, Executive Director, LEAD at Krea University are leading a project to understand the interactions between environment, natural resource governance systems, market linkages, value chains, financial inclusion, climate change, and gender in Pulicat Lake. 

In this context, Dr Bharath Sundaram has been invited to present his work on Pulicat at the Centre for Modern Indian Studies (CeMIS), Georg-August University, Gottingen, Germany, on 19 June, 2024. He will talk about how complex push-pull factors reduce adaptive capacity of individuals and social groups within Pulicat, with strong variations across state borders and livelihood types. 

For more information, click here

Market Structure, Profitability and Regulation of Telecommunication Industry in India – A Publication by Professor Madhuri Saripalle and Dr Surabhi Somya

A paper titled Market Structure, Profitability and Regulation of Telecommunication Industry in India, co-authored by Professor Madhuri Saripalle, Professor, Economics and Chairperson – MBA Programme at IFMR GSB, Krea University and Dr Surabhi Somya, a PhD alumna of IFMR GSB, Krea University and currently a Consultant at Deloitte USI, Financial & Risk Advisory, has been published in Global Business Review

The telecom industry in India has witnessed exponential growth in the past decade; however, its profitability has been on the decline post 2008. This study analyses the determinants of profitability of the industry during 2010–2022 using the conventional structure-conduct-performance paradigm. The authors estimate a dynamic panel data model to understand the role of endogeneity and profit persistence in the industry. Results suggest that there is profit persistence in the industry. Among conduct variables, export intensity has a positive impact while selling and import intensities has a negative impact on profitability. While size is not significant, industry concentration has a negative impact on profitability. These results suggest that as the telecom industry transitioned from a monopoly to an oligopolistic market with players competing in different domains and services, selling and advertisement intensity has diminishing returns to profitability while export intensity emerges as an important driver of profitability. Results also suggest the importance of the production-linked incentive scheme encouraging exports and the need for regulating concentration and encouraging import substitution.

You can access the publication here

Dr Swarnamalya Ganesh graces the stage of the Faiz Festival 2024

Dr Swarnamalya Ganesh, Assistant Professor of Practice, SIAS, Krea University has been invited as the First South Indian artiste to grace the stage of the Faiz Festival 2024, held on 9-11 February, 2024. 

Dr Ganesh had the honour of delivering remarks at the festival’s opening ceremony, alongside Salima Hashmi, daughter of Faiz Saab, and other esteemed Pakistani dignitaries. Her performance took place in a packed hall at the Alhamra Arts Center, SADIR – Beyond Borders. Over the course of 90 minutes, she presented a diverse repertoire in Deccani, Urdu, Telugu, drawing from her extensive research in multicultural histories of performance. Through song, dance, and spoken word, she emphasised the role of the arts as a means of fostering dialogue – a crucial endeavour, particularly in light of the failure of politicians to bridge divides, which only serves to exacerbate partisan tensions and religious animosity. The evening concluded with a rendition of Hum Dekhenge, Faiz Saab’s poetry of hope, resilience and revolution, translated by the theatre director Mangai and sung by Anjana and Bindumalini. 

“I told the audience, how in the chalice of my heart, I have long nestled a longing to see them – Lahore! The performance moved me and every one in the 400 odd packed hall to tears. We all shared our tears of loss and hope through the arts,” remarks Dr Ganesh. “To be an artiste is to be able to connect with the world. Going to Lahore and Pakistan showed me how the heart can ache when happiness and togetherness is ‘so near, yet so far’. I crossed the border by foot at Wagah-Attari, and that by itself is an experience worth sharing with our Krea community, not to mention the amazing people I met in Pakistani, their culture and sense for our combined history. A look at us from the outside, is a reality check, indeed.”