It's About Politics
The limits on Finance Minister Yashwant Sinha's budget this year are political. He has the prescription to put the economy on a high growth track, but hampered by vested interests, vote-bank politics and stubborn opposition parties, he is unlikely to deliver.

The Rot in Farming
Falling prices, stagnating production and diminishing returns are brewing an unparalleled crisis in farmlands across India. Ironically, the alarming situation has arisen despite an unprecedented 12 consecutive normal monsoons.

Creeping Paralysis
Doubts over Keshubhai Patel's fitness to rule are growing after his government failed to provide basic relief like tents to those affected by the earthquake. Despite having speedily restored electricity and water, which earned praise from some international agencies, criticism over Patel's poor marshalling of resources continues.

Artless Artistry
The festival tried to exhibit the widest selection rather than the best, making it a disappointing show.

Stillness of Change
The legendary bamboo curtain is lifting to reveal that Myanmar isn't quite the "fascist Disneyland" it is made out to be. The winds of change have brought back English as the medium of instruction and Aung San Suu Kyi is talking to the military. After prolonged isolation, Yangon wants to face the world, but on its own terms.

Making It Happen
John Buchanan gives an exclusive insight into what it takes to coach the world's most successful team. He also enumerates what
he feels will be the Indian strengths that the Aussies
will have to watch out for.

Strategic Partners
As emphasis shifts from relief to rehabilitation, Care Today is selecting regions to focus on and NGOs to help it channelise aid. The involvement of victims is integral to the plan so that their dignity remains intact.

NEIGHBOURS: MYANMAR

Military Balance

Though it is sending peace feelers, there is a tussle in the armed forces on the future course

In the absence of openness, Yangon-watching has been elevated into an art form, in much the same way Kremlin-watching was 30 years ago. Inevitably, much of the recent speculation centres on a power struggle in the military over the succession to Than Shwe.

NEXT ONE: Succession to Than Shwe (above) has pitted Khin Nyunt (top right) against Maung Aye

Curiously, Than Shwe is not the focus. Despite rumours of ill health, the 68-year-old senior general is alert and in total command. He actively participated in the talks with India's External Affairs Minister Jaswant Singh on February 15 and spoke on a range of subjects without notes. The suggestion that he will abruptly relinquish power on health grounds seems somewhat far-fetched.

At the root of the speculation is a bid by Aung San Suu Kyi to exploit contradictions in the army. In particular, a well-publicised rivalry between SPDC Vice-Chairman General Maung Aye and Secretary-1 Lt-General Khin Nyunt. In the assessment of Analytica Birmanie, a Burma-watch newsletter, it is "a war between those with brawn and elements that possess a lot of brain and craftiness".

The contrast is striking. As head of military intelligence and the architect of the cease-fire with ethnic insurgent groups, Khin Nyunt has held confidence-building negotiations with Suu Kyi. The talks have made progress and Suu Kyi reportedly told an EU delegation of her satisfaction with Khin Nyunt. Pro-opposition publications in Thailand have painted Khin Nyunt as a reformer who enjoys the confidence of westernised army officers, intellectuals, businessman and, most important, China. In short, someone who could be a bridge between the military and the opposition.

In the other corner is Maung Aye, a Buddhist traditionalist enjoying the full backing of the army. Maung Aye is said to have consolidated his position last year following trips to India, China and Laos. Wary of appeasing ethnic insurgents he has been very supportive of India's cross-border problems. Once the clear favourite to succeed Than Shwe, Maung Aye's ascendancy has raised the hackles of both China and the West, a reason why Suu Kyi is being encouraged to dabble in intra-military intrigues.

MetroScape
Charitable Mood
In the backdrop of murky allegations about underworld connections, philanthropy by the Bollywood badshahs comes a little more easily.
more...

Looking Glass

Delhi: Lifestyle Store

Delhi: Film Festival

Mumbai: Restaurant

The Indian Navy's International Fleet Review was a fine effort at naval diplomacy which the Government would do well to build on, writes INDIA TODAY's Principal Correspondent Sandeep Unnithan
in Despatches.

"The only obvious competition is in bhangra," say the Pakistani duo of the music group, Strings, in an exclusive interview with INDIA TODAY's Sonia Faleiro.
Interviews.