Prashant Shukla

  Navigating the World’s Largest Democracy By Prashant Shukla India, the world’s largest democracy, is currently in the midst of its 2024 general election. This monumental event spans seven phases, beginning on April 19 and concluding on June 1. Citizens nationwide are heading to the polls to elect 543 members of the Lok Sabha, the lower house of India’s Parliament. The sheer scale of this election is unprecedented, with approximately 970 million eligible voters participating. Key Points About the Ongoing Election Voting Phases: The election is being conducted in seven phases, allowing citizens from different regions to cast their ballots on different dates. Today, 19th April 2024, marks the first phase, during which 102 Parliamentary constituencies across 21 states and Union Territories are voted in this phase. Electoral System: India follows a first-past-the-post (FPTP) voting system. In each constituency, the candidate with the highest number of votes wins the seat, re...

Mystical Connection: Similarities Between Indian Pitru Paksha and Irish Halloween The article explores the authentic origins of Halloween in Ireland, tracing it back to the ancient Celtic tradition of Samhain.   As I reside in the ancient traditional land of Ireland, particularly in County Meath, where the roots of Celtic civilisation originally sprouted and spread to various corners of the world, I'm fortunate to witness the rich historical tapestry that makes this region unique. The story of the authentic origins of Halloween in Ireland has been uncovered through the examination of evidence gathered from archaeological digs, legends, myths, and Celtic history. Irish folklore, deeply intertwined with the Celtic heritage that originates in these very lands, traces Halloween back to the ancient Celtic tradition of Samhain, which the old Irish aptly termed "summer's end." Samhain marked not only the conclusion of the harvest season but also the commencement of the New Y...

  In recent years, the India-Canada relationship has encountered a series of hurdles that have strained the diplomatic ties between the two countries. While both countries share common values of democracy and multiculturalism, a central turning point in their relations occurred when the Canadian Prime Minister accused India in the Canadian Parliament of killing a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil, expelling diplomats from both sides. This incident marked the beginning of a most challenging period in their diplomatic relations. The other recent incident that escalated tensions between the two countries was the August 2023 dispute over agricultural trade policies. Canada expressed concerns about India's restrictive trade policies, which adversely affected the export of Canadian agricultural products. On the other hand, India argued that these measures were necessary to protect its domestic agriculture sector. Negotiations have been ongoing, but a resolution is yet to be reached. Addi...

Introduction: Ireland, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and world-renowned educational institutions, has become an increasingly popular destination for international students seeking high-quality education. However, alongside the pursuit of academic excellence, international and domestic students alike often face a common challenge - securing suitable accommodation. This article explores the problems associated with student accommodation in Ireland and argues why it should be the responsibility of educational institutions, especially for overseas students, to ensure adequate housing. The Student Accommodation Crisis: The shortage of affordable and suitable student accommodation in Ireland is a well-documented crisis. It is a problem that plagues students, both domestic and international, and threatens the overall student experience. Several key issues contributed to this crisis: 1. High Demand, Low Supply: Irish universities and colleges are known for their excellent academic pr...

H.E. Seán Ó Fearghaíl, Ceann Comhairle (Speaker Lower House of Parliament), officially launched the 8th edition of India Day in the presence of Senator Joe O'Reilly, representatives of the Irish Indian parliamentary friendship group, Cllr. Joanna Tuffy, Deputy Mayor, Cllr. Michael Clark, An Leas Chathaoirleach, Terence Jude Dick, Second Secretary Embassy of India.  Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl complimented the contribution of the Indian community to the Irish economy and culture and congratulated the Ireland-India Council and the OPW for continuous growth and making it an annual feature of the Irish calendar. India Day in Ireland a Celebration of Freedom & Irish Indian Friendship. India Day will showcase India's diverse cultural heritage through music, dance, craft and technological wonders and Indian cuisine and a networking opportunity. The Irish Indian business community attended the launch, including children in ethnic dresses. Meath, Cavan, and Laois representative...

Participating in the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is always refreshing and provides a sense of responsibility towards Mother India. Over the years, it has grown as a vast networking event for overseas Indians and Persons of Indian Origin. Undoubtedly, the Indian diaspora brings significant benefits to India in knowledge, skill, investment, and cultural diversity. Perhaps it would become more meaningful if it should focus more on a two-way process.   I fondly remember mostly all PBD's, but my last participation in Varanasi was unique, as it was a huge celebration first time in my home State of Uttar Pradesh. Many iconic personalities, including Hemamalini, performed beautiful classical dance. First time I have seen that the whole City was well decorated and cleaned by the municipal corporation. When I left City, my only wish was that Varanasi Municipal Corporation could maintain that cleanliness.  Veteran actor Hema Malini performing at the 'Pravasi Bharatiya Divas' in V...