In the West, the Left tries to conserve the welfare state. The liberal, economic right wants to dismantle it. Beyond that, the distinctions are blurred. The Right has accepted transfers to the poor but it wants them to be efficient. The Left no longer wants government to run businesses. Few oppose the market - the debate is on how to regulate it wisely. Read more in this TOI column.

The report in the papers about Karnataka's plan to set up a 2000 MW power plant in Chhattisgarh (vide report captioned 'Chhattisgarh plant to ease power woes' on page 7, TOI of 23rd July - the text is reproduced below, since, apparently because of a goof up by TOI, the 'link' is taking it to a diffrent text) denotes a refreshing change in the mind-set of the powers that be heading the state power sector.

Just for a moment, forget those debates around whether HAL should re-open or not. Lets say a re-opening is coming (via court order, govt forcing its will, or whatever). Then, in the Praja spirit of positivity and high expectations(!), what would be the best ways of re-opening and operating this airport?

Fuel populism killing air transportation

India, the world's largest democracy, has a sorry record in sound and bold economic administration. Populist measures abound, and nothing is sacred or immoral in the perpetual quest to obtain and then secure the "gaddi".

Fuel pricing in India is a prime example.