Rajiv Kulkarni has covered Indian politics for three decades, moving between Delhi's corridors and the country's state capitals. His column is read for its institutional memory — the ability to place today's political contests inside longer arcs that most daily reporting cannot see.
Recent work
India's Power Grid Stabilises as Monsoon Onset Promises Agricultural Relief
India's power demand has cooled significantly following pre-monsoon showers and receding heatwaves, with peak demand dropping from over 260GW to 242GW. Power shortages have fallen from 16 million units to nearly zero, easing strain on the national grid ahead of the expected June 4 monsoon onset.
Netanyahu Singles Out India as Israel's Most Loyal Global Partner
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu described India as providing 'absolutely crazy love' for Israel, highlighting the country as his most supportive global audience. The remarks underscore the strategic partnership between the nations while raising questions about India's diplomatic positioning in West Asia.
India Reinforces BRICS Counter-Terror Framework as Platform Matures Into Decade-Long Institution
India hosted the 11th Annual BRICS Counter Terrorism Working Group meeting in New Delhi, marking 10 years since the framework's establishment. The gathering brought together senior counter-terrorism officials from all ten BRICS member countries to discuss emerging challenges and strengthen multilateral cooperation against terrorism.
India's Fuel Price Surge Exposes Energy Security Cracks as Iran Crisis Deepens
Indian oil marketing companies raised petrol and diesel prices by ₹3 per litre for the first time in four years as global crude prices surge past $100 per barrel due to US-Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequent supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz. Further increases of ₹2-4 per litre are expected as refiners face mounting losses.
India's BRICS Chairship Tests Multipolarity Ambitions With Iran, UAE Participation
India hosts BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting on May 14-15, 2026, with participation from Iran and UAE as new partners. The gathering focuses on global governance reforms and multilateral system restructuring, marking a key test of India's leadership in promoting multipolarity.