🐎 The Aga Khan Dynasty — Masters of Thoroughbred Breeding and Racing @ 🧘DG🐎

DG aka Divya Gurnay at the Aga Khan Studs in Ireland, with 'Sea The Stars'.

For over a century, the Aga Khan family has been one of the most influential names in global thoroughbred racing and breeding, their silks gracing the world’s most prestigious tracks, and their studs shaping modern bloodlines. What began as a passion inherited in the early 20th century evolved into a vast and revered empire of equine excellence, spanning Ireland and France, producing champions, and writing some of horse racing’s most remarkable stories. 

From India to Europe.

The Aga Khan involvement in thoroughbred racing stretches back through generations:

• The first Aga Khan to seriously engage in horse racing was already involved by the early 1800s in India, a period when horses were central to military, sporting, and social life. 

• It was Aga Khan III who formally established the family’s breeding operation in 1921, purchasing yearlings at UK auctions and planting the seeds of what would become a globally renowned bloodstock. 

• When His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV succeeded as head of the family operation in 1960 at the age of 23, he inherited not just horses, but vision, ambition, and a commitment to breed winners that could dominate on the greatest stages. 

Under his stewardship, and guided by expert breeders and trainers, the Aga Khan operation expanded dramatically, combining inherited lines with strategic acquisitions to preserve and enhance bloodlines. 

Studs and Training Centres — A Network Across Ireland and France.

What sets the Aga Khan studs apart is not just the scale, but the integration of breeding and training across multiple premier locations:

Ireland — Heart of the Irish Thoroughbred Scene.

The Irish lands are the hub of the Aga Khan breeding empire, including:

• Gilltown Stud (County Kildare) – the centerpiece of operations and headquarters for Irish-based stallions. 

• Sallymount Stud – known for broodmare development. 

• Sheshoon Stud and Ballyfair Stud – furthering depth and diversity in the broodmare band. 

These Irish studs span nearly 1,000 hectares of pasture and facilities, producing horses famed for stamina and versatility. 

France — Central to Training and Breeding.

The French side of the operation features:

• Haras de Bonneval in Normandy – the historic breeding headquarters with stallions standing and mares foaling each season. 

• Haras de Saint-Crespin, Haras d’Ouilly, Haras de Tupot – additional French studs linked under the Aga Khan umbrella. 

• Aiglemont Training Centre near Chantilly — a 100-box training facility with the famed Les Aigles gallops, where many Aga Khan thoroughbreds are conditioned for Classics and Group 1 races. 

This blend of breeding and high-profile training under one network allows the Aga Khan operation to cultivate and prep horses from birth through peak competition. 

Champions and Legends — Horses That Shaped Racing History

Over decades, Aga Khan bred and raced some of the most celebrated thoroughbreds in the sport:

⭐ Shergar — The Legend

Perhaps the most famous of all, Shergar won the Epsom Derby by a record 10 lengths in 1981, a performance still revered today.  His story took a darker turn when he was kidnapped from Ballymany Stud in Ireland in 1983, a mystery that remains unsolved and one of racing’s greatest enigmas. 

Other Aga Khan Champions:

• Blushing Groom — a European Champion Two-Year-Old and influential sire. 

• Sinndar — won the Epsom Derby, Irish Derby, and Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in 2000. 

• Zarkava — unbeaten and victorious in the 2008 Arc, exemplifying the depth of the Aga Khan broodmare line descending from early family foundation mares. 

• Daylami — an Irish-bred grey champion and one of the finest of his generation.

• Daryz — winner of the 2025 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe by five lengths.

• Candagan — Longines World’s Best Racehorse of 2025 who is first horse to compete the King George – Champion Stakes double in the same year since Brigadier Gerard, and the first foreign-trained horse to win the Japan Cup in 20 years, which he did in race record time.

Collectively, horses bred by the Aga Khan have won over 160 Group 1 races worldwide — a mark of sustained excellence.

👑 The Man Behind the Silks — Aga Khan IV.

His Highness Aga Khan IV was not only a breeder and owner; he was a visionary leader in global racing:

• From revitalizing studs in the 1960s and 1970s, to purchasing vast bloodstock collections from leading French breeders like François Dupré and Marcel Boussac, he fortified the genetic foundations of his operation. 

• Beyond racing, he was also known as the spiritual leader to millions and a philanthropist, showcasing a blend of cultural influence and sporting passion. 

At his passing in 2025 at age 88, his contribution to thoroughbred racing was widely acknowledged across the industry. 

Today, Princess Zahra Aga Khan, his daughter, continues to oversee and develop the family’s studs and bloodstock strategies, carrying forward a legacy that spans four generations. 

Why the Aga Khan Name Matters in Racing

The Aga Khan studs aren’t just successful — they are architects of bloodstock history. From foundational mares purchased a century ago to producing world-beating champions that shape pedigrees today, their impact resonates through every turf classic and stallion roster.

Their story blends aristocratic tradition, surgical genetic breeding strategy, and authentic racing passion, making the Aga Khan dynasty one of the most compelling in the sport of kings.

©️@🧘DG🐎

Tattersalls: The Glittering Arena of Thoroughbred Sales @ Divya Gurnay.

I had the good fortune of being present as an active participant, at the Mecca of thoroughbred racehorse sales, in the heart of Newmarket, England. Yes, I was at Tattersalls.  

Tattersalls stands as the crème de la crème of thoroughbred sales arenas across globe — a place where rich history and tradition, extreme wealth, the greatest moguls of horse world from across the world, and preeminently outstanding equine excellence, collide in a spectacle, that is as much about prestige, as it is about pedigree.  It is a bloodstock auction house that facilitates the sales, acting as the intermediary for both the sellers (consignors) and the buyers (consignees).  

For over 250 years, this iconic auction house has drawn a glittering international clientele: aristocrats in bespoke suits, global investors with deep pockets, and bloodstock agents whose reputations are built on spotting the next champion.

Here, the stakes are monumental. Yearlings with blue-chip pedigrees can fetch seven or even eight-figure sums in British Pounds. For instance, mare Marsha,  fetched 6,000,000 guineas, 8.4 million dollars  or around 71.5 crore Rs,  at the 2017 December Mares Sale. The price set a new European record for a horse sold at auction.

 'You Got To Me', a Group 1 Irish Oaks winner  was sold for 4,800,000 guineas or 6.9 million dollars or almost 57 crore Rupees.  'Frankel Filly', a daughter of the dam Aljazzi, was purchased for 4,400,000 guineas, or 5.5 million dollars or about Rs 60 crores. Other notable very high value horses sold at Tattersalls  were, 'Sea The Stars Colt',  'Vertical Blue', 'Frankel Colt' all sold for millions of Guineas, and the  show promises to continue. The  proven racehorses and broodmares trade hands for fortunes that make the world of ordinary business seem quaint. 

Each horse is presented with meticulous care, catalogued with precision, inspected for soundness, and showcased with the kind of attention to detail that reflects centuries of breeding expertise.

But Tattersalls is as much a theatre as it is trade. The tension is palpable as the auctioneer’s gavel rises and falls, punctuating moments of high drama where fortunes are made in seconds. 

Champagne flows, deals are whispered in hushed tones, and alliances are forged among the gentry and racing dynasties that make up its elite audience.

 To witness a sale is to step into a world where heritage, ambition, and wealth intermingle, and where the promise of a future champion can ignite a bidding war that leaves hearts racing.

For anyone passionate about thoroughbreds, Tattersalls is more than a marketplace—it is a rite of passage, a pilgrimage to the very epicenter of the sport, where the past and future of racing converge under one historic roof.

Author Divya Gurnay is a keen horsewoman, being trained in breeding and sales of Thoroughbred horses in England. A High court Advocate from India, she also has a Postgraduation in Human Rights, and a master's degree in Mass communication. She is also a qualified Mountain climbing instructor from world's best mountaineering institute, named NIM,  run by the Indian Army.

The Silent Abuse of Horses in India

They are among the noblest of animals — symbols of grace, power, and loyalty. Yet across India, from the tourist trails of Jaipur and Mumbai to wedding processions and racetracks, horses often endure silent suffering under the weight of human neglect and exploitation.

Despite their historic role in India’s culture and economy, the welfare of horses remains a neglected chapter in the country’s animal rights discourse. The grandeur we associate with horses hides a grim reality: overwork, malnutrition, inadequate shelter, and cruel training methods continue to define their existence in many parts of the country.

The Many Faces of Abuse:

In cities such as Delhi, Mysuru, and Pushkar, carriage horses are made to trot endlessly on blistering asphalt, pulling tourists or goods that far exceed their strength. Wedding and festival horses are painted, covered with heavy ornaments, and exposed to loud music and fireworks that cause immense stress and trauma.

At racecourses, the image is more polished but no less concerning. Young horses, barely three years old, are often pushed to peak performance through harsh training regimes. Injuries are frequent, and horses that can no longer race are quietly discarded, sometimes ending up in the unregulated meat trade.

Beyond visible cruelty lies systemic neglect — insufficient nutrition, lack of veterinary care, and absence of retirement shelters. For every celebrated racehorse, there are hundreds of carriage and working horses whose lives end in exhaustion and anonymity.

The Legal Framework: Strong Words, Weak Will:

India’s Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 (PCA) remains the cornerstone of animal protection law. It criminalises unnecessary pain and suffering but prescribes meagre penalties — as little as ₹10–₹50 for a first offence — a figure that has barely changed since the law’s enactment.

Supplementary rules, including the Prevention of Cruelty to Draught and Pack Animals Rules (1965) and the Performing Animals (Registration) Rules (2001), provide specific protections for working and performing horses. The Transport of Animals Rules (1978) also restrict long-distance movement without proper rest and hydration.

However, enforcement is poor. Monitoring by local authorities is inconsistent, and cases rarely progress to conviction. Much of the actual intervention on the ground comes from overworked animal welfare groups such as People for Animals (PFA), Brooke India, and FIAPO, who often step in where the State withdraws.

Horse Racing Ethics: The Glamour and the Gray Areas:

Horse racing in India operates under the aegis of the Turf Authorities of India, an umbrella body overseeing six major race clubs in Pune, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Chennai, and Delhi. These clubs maintain veterinary protocols and regulate doping, yet transparency remains a challenge.

Critics argue that commercial interests often override welfare considerations. Overbreeding to meet racing demand leads to surplus foals — many of which never make it to the track. The use of whips during races, performance-enhancing drugs, and inadequate post-race care are ongoing ethical concerns.

Unlike in countries such as the United Kingdom or Australia, where retired racehorse retraining programmes are institutionalised, India lacks structured aftercare. In the UK, the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) charity, supported by the British Horseracing Authority, finds new careers for ex-racehorses in show-jumping, therapy, and equestrian sports. In Australia, the Off the Track initiative plays a similar role.

In India, once a racehorse is past its prime, it is often sold to private owners, riding schools, or — worse — slaughter markets. There is no formal retirement or welfare fund, and ownership tracking becomes murky.

The ethical question therefore persists: Can the industry that celebrates equine beauty and speed also take responsibility for their lifelong welfare?

Global Standards and India’s Lag:

Internationally, countries like the UK, Germany, and New Zealand enforce stringent welfare codes that include minimum space, exercise requirements, and mandatory rest periods. The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has published detailed Terrestrial Animal Health Codes for equine welfare — documents that India has yet to formally integrate into its regulatory structure.

While India has world-class breeders and racing infrastructure, it lags in establishing a national equine welfare authority or central registry. Without these, accountability remains diffused and violations go unnoticed.

A comparative perspective reveals that India’s horse welfare framework, though well-intentioned, lacks institutional depth and regular auditing — both key to ensuring humane standards in the equine industry.

The Way Forward: Policy, Partnership, and Compassion:-

To address horse abuse comprehensively, India must act across multiple levels:

1. Modernise the Law:

The PCA Act needs urgent amendment. The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Amendment) Bill, which proposes fines up to ₹75,000 and imprisonment, should be passed without delay.

2. Create a National Equine Welfare Policy:

India must establish guidelines for ownership, care, breeding, racing, retirement, and slaughter prevention. Mandatory microchipping and registration would ensure traceability and accountability.

3. Independent Oversight in Racing:

Welfare audits of race clubs should be conducted by independent veterinarians, not internal committees. A dedicated fund for retired horses, contributed by race clubs and owners, is vital.

4. Education and Sensitisation:

Training programmes for grooms, stablehands, and police officials can build empathy and improve first-line care.

5. Public Awareness and Ethical Choices:

Citizens can choose not to ride or hire horses that appear injured or underfed, report cruelty, and support certified sanctuaries.

A Matter of Conscience:

From Uchchaihshravas, the celestial horse of Hindu mythology, to Chetak, Maharana Pratap’s loyal companion, horses have held a place of honour in India’s moral imagination. Yet in our modern quest for entertainment and profit, that moral bond seems frayed.

If a civilisation is judged by how it treats its voiceless beings, then India’s treatment of its horses demands deep introspection. Protecting them is not merely an act of kindness — it is a reaffirmation of our shared humanity.

Racing Foundation Conference 2025: Engaging the next generation and safeguarding the future of horse-racing.

I am currently in England at the National Stud, training to become a skilled horsewoman. So far, I have gained practical experience in covering, foaling and weaning operations, and I am now focusing on the sales and marketing of some of the finest Thoroughbred bloodlines in the world.

The programme is exceptionally well designed, offering a structured learning journey that brings us into close contact with some of the leading organisations and professionals within the remarkable British Thoroughbred industry.

As part of this training, tomorrow I will be attending a full-day workshop as a delegate, where leading experts will be engaging with us directly. The agenda is to reflect on and discuss meaningful strategies for how the next generation in Britain can be reconnected with the nation’s rich traditions of breeding, raising, training and racing Thoroughbred horses.

As someone actively involved in the business, and also an international visiting student at the prestigious National Stud, I felt it both pragmatic and valuable to share my thoughts on this issue not only from a British perspective, but also from an Indian and wider international viewpoint.

In discussing the British, Indian, and International contexts I will focus on: 

Current challenges (why youth aren’t as engaged as they could be.)

Opportunities (digital, cultural, sporting, educational.)

Concrete strategies (marketing, PR, education, career pathways, community building.)

Conclusion (future vision for sustainability of horse racing).

Let's begin  with 'Engaging the Next Generation in the British Horse Racing Industry.'

The British horse racing industry, one of the oldest and most prestigious in the world, faces both immense opportunities and mounting challenges as it navigates the twenty-first century.

 With its rich heritage spanning centuries, iconic races such as the Grand National and Royal Ascot, and world-leading breeding operations, the industry has long stood as a symbol of British culture and sport. However, despite its traditions, the industry must grapple with shifting social values, competition from other sports and entertainment, and the necessity to remain relevant to younger generations. 

Engaging the next generation is not merely desirable; it is essential for the sustainability and global leadership of British horse racing.

In my opinion the challenges facing youth engagement are:

Young people today are immersed in digital-first lifestyles, where e-sports, football, social media, and streaming platforms capture much of their attention. Horse racing, by comparison, is often perceived as distant, elitist, or overly traditional. 

Concerns about animal welfare also influence how the sport is viewed, especially by younger audiences who are increasingly socially conscious. 

Additionally, the decline in attendance at racecourses among youth, and reduced betting engagement by younger demographics pose existential threats.

The challenge is to to create 'Opportunities for Engagement.'

As horse racing in Britain retains a unique appeal. It combines sporting excitement, cultural pageantry, and economic importance, employing tens of thousands and contributing significantly to the rural economy.

 Its international reputation offers a platform to reinvent itself for the digital age. The challenge, therefore, lies in reimagining the sport’s appeal without losing its heritage.

In my opinion, srategies for engaging the next generation with this glorious industry are :

1. Digital Innovation: Racing must move where young people already are—on social media and gaming platforms. Live streaming, virtual reality race experiences, behind-the-scenes content with jockeys and trainers, and interactive racing apps can turn horse racing into an immersive experience for tech-savvy youth. Gamification—fantasy racing leagues, predictive apps, and esports-style competitions—could transform engagement.

2. Educational Pathways: Young people must see horse racing not just as entertainment, but as a career opportunity. Partnerships with schools, universities, and equine colleges could expand knowledge about veterinary science, horse care, breeding, and racecourse management. Apprenticeships and scholarship programs would showcase the industry as a vibrant and sustainable career path.

3. Inclusivity and Accessibility: Breaking the perception that racing is exclusive to the wealthy is vital. Affordable ticketing for youth, outreach programs in urban areas, and fan engagement initiatives can democratize the sport. Engaging influencers and ambassadors from diverse backgrounds can help reshape the narrative.

4. Animal Welfare Leadership: Addressing welfare concerns proactively is non-negotiable.

 By showcasing the high standards of equine care and promoting transparency, the industry can win trust among ethically conscious youth. Campaigns highlighting the life of thoroughbreds beyond the racetrack—such as retraining for other equestrian disciplines—can also resonate deeply.

5. Cultural Integration: The UK’s multicultural youth should see themselves represented in racing. Celebrating diverse jockeys, international horses, and inclusive fan cultures would make racing feel modern and relevant.

Thus the future of British horse racing depends on its ability to modernize without losing its soul. By investing in digital innovation, education, inclusivity, and welfare, the industry can capture the imagination of the next generation. In doing so, it not only secures its survival but also strengthens its place as a global leader in sport and culture.

Now let's look at engaging the next generation in the 'Indian Horse Racing Industry'.

Horse racing in India, though deeply rooted in colonial-era traditions, stands today at a crossroads. The sport once held prestige in the subcontinent, with racecourses in cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Kolkata drawing vibrant crowds.  Yet in recent decades, Indian racing has struggled with declining youth interest, legal restrictions on betting, and a lack of modernization. For the industry to thrive, it must strategically pivot towards engaging the next generation of Indians, who represent not just future audiences, but also future owners, trainers, breeders, and ambassadors.

Challenges in  India are that racing is often associated with gambling rather than sport, which diminishes its broader appeal. Younger generations, especially from urban middle-class backgrounds, perceive horse racing as elitist and disconnected from their lives. Additionally, the industry has been slow to adopt digital platforms and modern marketing strategies. Compared with cricket, football, and even kabaddi, racing lags in visibility.

Despite these challenges but, India’s demographic advantage—a young, aspirational population—offers a vast untapped market.

 The growing popularity of equestrian sports, the expansion of social media, and India’s rising global standing create opportunities to rebrand racing as not just a betting-driven event but as a lifestyle sport combining tradition, glamour, and competition. I come from a tier two cityin India, but I started riding horses, as young as ten, and continue to care for horses with Chandigarh Horse Riders Society.

 So in India, there is respect for horse sports, but sadly thd government needs to engage more positively with this industry.

Strategies for engagement of youth in India are:

1. Rebranding Horse Racing as a Sport, Not Just Betting: Youth campaigns should highlight the athleticism of jockeys, the science of training, and the beauty of the thoroughbred. Promoting equine welfare, fitness, and the sporting thrill can counterbalance the gambling stigma.

2. Digital Expansion: India’s young generation is digitally native. Streaming races online, creating racing-focused mobile apps, and offering data-driven interactive content (such as race analytics, predictive games, and fantasy leagues) could engage audiences nationwide—even those far from racecourses.

3. Campus Engagement and Education: Racing can connect with young minds through university clubs, internships, and partnerships with veterinary, management, and sports institutions. Creating racing-related curricula, summer camps, and equine care workshops can nurture interest in careers within the industry.

4. Inclusivity and Diversity: Racing must appeal beyond traditional elite circles. By opening racecourses to student festivals, music concerts, and family days, the sport can cultivate a youthful, inclusive image. Youth-focused pricing policies and influencer-led promotions could further democratize the experience.

5. International Exposure: India could encourage young professionals to train abroad in established racing nations like the UK, Ireland, and Dubai. I for instance have been encouraged by Ms Amita Mehra, the CEO and owner of Usha Stud farms, and my Dad, an Indian army Captain, who  simply put his blessings in place, to ensure that I am training  at the elite ENS.  Ambassadors like me  can bring back global best  practices  to India and inspire peers.

Thus to conclude, engaging India’s youth requires a complete reimagining of the sport’s identity—from a niche betting pursuit to a mainstream cultural phenomenon.

 With its vast youth population, India has the potential to not only revive but also expand horse racing into a modern, vibrant industry. By embracing digital platforms, inclusivity, and education, Indian horse racing can reinvent itself for the twenty-first century.

Now let's also look at engaging the Next Generation in the International Horse Racing Industry

Horse racing is a global industry, spanning continents from Europe and the Middle East to Asia and the Americas.

 The sport commands billions in economic activity, supports extensive breeding and training networks, and unites cultures through iconic events such as the Kentucky Derby, Dubai World Cup, Melbourne Cup, and Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. However, like many traditional sports, horse racing faces the challenge of declining youth engagement. 

In an era of rapid digital transformation, animal welfare advocacy, and diversified entertainment options, the international racing community must coordinate strategies to captivate the next generation.

Global Challenges are, that across international markets, horse racing is often seen as a sport of older generations. 

The rise of alternative entertainment, like E-sports, global football, cricket and digital streaming—has overshadowed racing. Additionally, animal welfare concerns have become more pronounced, creating reputational challenges. The pandemic accelerated the shift to online entertainment, which racing has only partially embraced.

Inspite of it all, the 'Global Opportunities' are, that despite these challenges, racing possesses assets unmatched by other sports: a blend of tradition, high stakes, glamour, and international appeal. Its truly global nature offers opportunities to foster cross-cultural connections. Moreover, the thoroughbred industry is intrinsically linked to broader economic ecosystems—tourism, rural employment, and global trade, which makes it strategically significant.

Strategies for Engaging the Next Generation at international level are:

1. Digital and Cross-Platform Storytelling: Racing must invest in global digital campaigns showcasing stories of horses, jockeys, and breeders. TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube shorts can be leveraged for bite-sized storytelling that captures youthful attention spans.

2. E-sports and Virtual Racing Integration: The international industry could collaborate with gaming developers to create racing video games or VR platforms, making the sport more interactive and accessible to young fans.

3. Global Youth Ambassadors: Establishing exchange programs for young professionals across racing hubs—UK, Ireland, USA, Japan, UAE, Australia—would foster a global network of youth engaged in the industry. This can strengthen cross-border collaborations and fresh perspectives.

4. International Education and Scholarships: Creating global racing academies, offering scholarships for training in equine science, business management, and veterinary care, would institutionalize youth engagement. This also addresses workforce sustainability in breeding, training, and racecourse management.

5. Sustainability and Welfare: International racing must lead in equine welfare standards, environmental sustainability, and transparent governance. Younger generations value ethics and responsibility—embedding these in global racing can enhance its legitimacy and appeal.

6. Hybrid Events: Beyond traditional race days, integrating music festivals, youth fashion, and cultural showcases into race meetings can make them lifestyle events attractive to younger demographics worldwide.

Thus the international horse racing industry stands at a pivotal moment. Its survival and growth depend on its ability to adapt to the tastes and values of the next generation. By embracing digital innovation, promoting global education, and positioning itself as a sport rooted in ethics, culture, and internationalism, racing can secure its place as a truly global sport for the future.

Author Divya Gurnay, is a Masters in law, Mass-communication, Human rights, and a world record holding mountaineering instructor, an India High court's Advocate, yet above them all, an Indian Horse Woman, honing her skills at the best Thoroughbred institute in Europe, The National Stud.

Spirit of Democracy and its animations in India....................... Divya Gurnay.

Democracy is not a form of Government, but a form of Social Organisation

The bedrock of the Indian legal system i.e. our Constitution was framed by the Constituent Assembly after many rounds of fiery debate and razor sharp rhetoric bandied about by the members. The grand Parliament Building stood a silent witness to this spirited and critical exercise of defining what exactly our young democracy would look like.

One of the most perceptive observations made during these Constituent Assembly meetings was by the man behind the Drafting Committee, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. He stressed that the making of new laws is not enough, the real challenge is to establish democracy at grassroot level. He observed that in our country, “Democracy is like a topsoil, artificially layered on the Indian sub-stratum which originally is essentially undemocratic.” This observation is vindicated by the fact that although we have democratic elections right from Panchayat level to the Parliament, yet the use of money and muscle power has become a big deciding factor in winnability of candidates. A recent article in TIME magazine revealed that in India, candidates with serious criminal background are  twice as likely to win as compared to candidates with no criminal background. Why does it happen or is likely to happen? Is it that the indian collective conscious is still plagued by slave mentality induced by fear and intimidation so firmly embedded in the common man's mind first by the rajvaras and then by the british to serve their narrow ends ? Or is it that the democracy came in when the average indian was not quite ready for it and has resulted in it being hijacked by capitalists and criminals.  Thus the real challenge still is to put the spirit of democracy into the hearts and minds of all Indians. This challenge has not received enough attention until now.

Over the decades the Sansad Bhavan has witnessed many grand (and not so grand) moments during the Parliamentary proceedings, but the zealous debates of the Constituent Assembly are yet to be surpassed. Attending the recently concluded Model Youth Parliament at International Youth Centre, New Delhi, gave me hope. I realised that with the youth of this country taking initiatives to debate on policy making, learning about the process of Parliament, and speaking their hearts out on how they wish to have a more participative democracy, democracy may finally be progressing beyond being a mere topsoil and actually take roots. Our Demographic Dividend might just serve us with energy and hope to be the final push we need to make our democracy truly participative.

History tells us that we are basically a democratic sort of people. In ancient India, about 1000 BC, our Janapadas and Mahajanapadas had a republican form of governance with no hereditary passing of the tribal chief’s title. It was the ablest man who got the job in the tribal republic ranging from its highest chief to its lowest menial. Therefore, democracy is not some foreign concept that we have imported or need to adapt ourselves too. It is there in our ancient roots and in our spirits. Now, more than ever before, the democracy in our hearts is rebelling against the undemocratic social institutions around us. This rebelliousness is only natural in a young nation like ours with 65% of its population under the age of 35.

In the Youth Parliament proceedings I saw a glimpse of our constituent assembly, with nuanced and highly informed arguments advanced by the ruling party as well as the dynamic opposition. It was what our Parliament ought to look like, young and highly representative with members from all corners of the nation. I saw the usual cynicism about politics in our country melting away as the youngsters took to the role of representing their constituencies with gusto. Perhaps as our democracy takes roots, the unfulfilled dreams of a great nation and its many a freedom fighters who laid down their  lives for it, will also finally take wings.

...Divya Gurnay. Ba Hons, Psychology,  M.A. Journalism and Mass communication, a student of LLB.

To Sin or not to SinTax

The Punjab Government has withdrawn sin tax on cigarettes that it had levied in the 2013-2014 budget. The idea behind imposing the sin tax was to fund the treatment of poor cancer patients and set up drug de-addiction centres with the revenue collected. However, the result has been a the growing menace of smuggling of cigarettes from neighbouring states, coupled with a decrease in sale of cigarettes in the state resulting in decreased revenues. This is because no other states in North India have imposed sin tax on cigarettes other than Uttar Pradesh. But is the government justified in acting disappointed at the outcome or should it really have known better? After all sin tax does have a reputation for coming with inevitable collateral damage. 


Is sin tax by very nature defective? To examine this we must examine the moral, administrative, medical and financial arguments for and against sin tax.

Sin tax is a kind of sumptuary tax, i.e. a tax specifically levied to reduce transactions involving something that society considers undesirable. Common targets are alcohol, tobacco, gambling, soft drinks, fast food, candies etc. The revenue generated by sin tax is usually used for special projects to benefit the 'sinners' and other members of society. For instance Sweden uses its gambling sin tax to help people with gambling problems while some American counties use such taxes to build more sports facilities for residents.

The rough idea behind sin tax is to prevent certain behaviours. Raise the cost of certain products to make people stop using them or at least use less of them. After all most smokers and alcoholics are in a constant struggle to quit and making the ‘sinful’ behaviour financially painful may be the ultimate push they need to stick to their decision of quitting.

Taking the medico-economic  perspective, it is argued that consumers of tobacco and alcohol cause a greater financial burden on society by forcing others to pay for medical treatment of conditions stemming from such consumption, especially in many first world countries where government funds health-care costs. They should be taxed extra to pay for the cost of their treatment. All these arguments seem valid but the dynamics of sin tax in real life are usually very different.

Sin tax has had a bad reputation ever since it was first implemented. It has historically triggered rampant smuggling and black markets, especially when it creates a large price difference in neighbouring jurisdictions. It is also a regressive tax in nature which means that it is imposed in such a manner that the tax rate decreases as the amount to be taxed decreases. A regressive tax imposes greater burden on the poor, relative to their resources, than on the rich. So if a man earning 10,000 rupees a month has to shell out 1000 rupees for monthly alcohol rather than 600 rupees which he was earlier paying, that would be a jump from 6% to 10% of his total income. Whereas for a man earning a minimum 200,000 per month which would put him in the strata of ‘well off’ in this age, even if he was paying 6000 per month for alcohol and is now to pay 10,000 it is only a jump from 3% to 5% of his income. Thus the burden on poor man is much greater. For the poor man, the extra 400 rupees he pays as sin tax would have meant the complete school fee for one of his children, stationary and all, but for the high earner the increase of 4000 rupees is peanuts.

Sin tax impacts consumer behaviour in a most damaging manner. For instance it increases the smoker’s propensity to smoke high tar, high nicotine cigarettes which are cheaper but far more harmful. This causes increase in diseases like cancer, which is exactly opposite to the objective of imposing sin tax. On administrative and humanitarian grounds this is unacceptable and from an economic perspective, it increases costs of healthcare for residents. What is the point of collecting more revenue to help smokers and alcoholics if you are at the same time automatically increasing the number of sick and diseased persons who would be eligible for such aid. For instance alcohol consumers will buy cheaper distils and the really poor would be forced to consume moonshine produced illegally which has high likelihood of damaging their liver very fast and may even poison them as many cases have been reported in India. That it would create a spurt in law and order problems related to illegal production of moonshine is obvious.

Sin tax has a propensity to not only change the consumption patterns of the ‘sinners’ but also the priorities of the government. We cannot forget that government is always only as good as the people who run it. They may become reliant on the revenue from sin tax and would then have to encourage the ‘sinful’ behaviour in question to maintain the stream of revenue.

History has shown that sin tax is not an effective method to curb bad habits of members of society and rather creates a range of other complications that put unnecessary pressure on the police, medical facilities as well as the regular law abiding tax payer. Therefore alternative methods must be used such as mass communication efforts and counselling camps to help people kick the bottle and the get rid of the smoke in their lives.

Verdict- Governments must not commit the sin of imposing sin tax.

                                                                                                                   ...Divya Gurnay

Great Himalayan National Park Gets Heritage Status

A UNESCO world heritage site is a place that has been listed as one due to its special cultural or physical significance, with outstanding universal value to humanity. The list is maintained by the international World Heritage Programme administered by UNESCO World Heritage Committee. This committee is composed of 21 State Parties which are elected by its General Assembly.

Once a country has some sights inscribed on the World Heritage list, the resulting prestige often raises higher awareness among citizens and governments, resulting in a general rise in the amount of importance given to heritage properties. A country may also receive financial assistance and expert advice from the World Heritage Committee to support activities for the preservation of its sites.

 The World Heritage Programme was founded in 1972 with ‘The Convention Concerning the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage’ adopted by UNESCO, and since ratified by nearly all countries of the world. Today there are 1007 World Heritage sites all over the world. Of these, 779 are cultural, 197 are natural, while 31 are mixed.

There is a well laid out criteria for Cultural and Natural Heritage Sites to be included. Firstly, the nominated site must be of outstanding Universal Value. Secondly, it must meet at least one of the ten criteria listed below.

Cultural criteria

1. Represents a masterpiece of human creative genius.

2. Exhibits an important interchange of human values, over a span of time, or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning, or landscape design.

3. To bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared.

4. Is an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural, or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates a significant stage in human history.

5. Is an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture, or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change.

6. Is directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.

Natural criteria

7. Contains superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance.

8. Is an outstanding example representing major stages of Earth's history, including the record of life, significant on-going geological processes in the development of landforms, or significant geomorphic or physiographic features.

9. Is an outstanding example representing significant on-going ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of terrestrial, fresh water, coastal and marine ecosystems, and communities of plants and animals.

10. Contains the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation

 India has 32 World Heritage Sites recognised by UNESCO. Of these 25 are cultural and 7 ar natural. The latest addition is the Great Himalayan National Park in July 2014.

The 7 Natural World Heritage Sites are:

1.      Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary

2.      Manas Wildlife Sanctuary

3.      Keoladeo National Park

4.      Sunderbans National Park

5.      Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers

6.      Western Ghats

7.      Great Himalayan National Park

The 25 Cultural World Heritage Sites are:

1.      Mahabodhi Temple Complex, Bodh Gaya, Bihar

2.      Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi

3.      Qutb Minar and its monuments

4.      Red Fort Complex

5.      Churches and Convents of Goa

6.      Champaner, Pavagarh, Archeological Park, Gujrat

7.      Group of Monuments at Hampi

8.      Group of Monuments at Pattadakal

9.      Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh

10.  Khajuraho, MP

11.  Ajanta Caves

12.  Ellora Caves

13.  Elephanta Caves

14.  Chattrapati Shivaji Terminus, Maharashtra

15.  Sun Temple, Konark

16.  Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

17.  Great Living Chola Temples, Tamil Nadu

18.  Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, TN

19.  Agra Fort

20.  Fatehpur Sikri

21.  Taj Mahal

22.  Mountain Railways of India- Darjeeling; Nilgiri; Kalka-Shimla

23.  Hill Forts of Rajasthan

24.  Rani ki Vav, Patan, Gujrat

25.  Rock Shelters at Bhimbetka, MP

The Great Himalayan National Park will benefit from the World Heritage Status as it would boost tourism potential and bring in much needed impetus and funds to help protect the rare and endangered species of birds, animals and plants present there. The decision was taken after a meeting of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in Doha. The park in Kullu district had staked claim under the natural scenic beauty category as it has 203 species of rare birds, 50 species of mammals and over 400 species of rare plants. The Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area includes the Sainj and Tirthan Wildlife Sanctuaries.

Some threatened animal and bird species there include Western Tragopan, Chir Pheasant, Snow Leopard, Himalayan Musk Deer, Asiatic Black Bear, Himalayan Tahr, Blue Sheep Serow.

Some of the large mammals that are characteristic of the park include Goral, the Himalayan Tahr and Bharal or Blue Sheep. These mammals are prey for leopards in the forest zone and snow leopards above the tree line. Himalayan black bears inhabit the forests, while Asiatic brown bears are on the alpine meadows. Among birds, the western Tragopan, Monal, Lammergeyers, Himalayan Griffon Vultures and Golden Eagles are prominent.

Though the World Heritage has pepped up authorities and researchers with the prospect of more tourism and added funds, the heritage tag has created a discord among villagers who are campaigning for the settlement of their rights to grazing, collecting firewood, medicinal herb and morel mushrooms. The expected increase in tourism would also have to be sensitively managed as the boost to the economy cannot come at the expense of excessive human intervention and as a result environmental degradation. The involvement of the local community can be an asset if managed properly because they are the most directly affected stakeholders.

                                                                                                                                ...Divya Gurnay.