Power Pivots Book Launch Celebrates Haryana's Political Evolution Through Two Decades

A peaceful Sunday evening meeting at Kunzum Books in Jor Bagh, Delhi, soon turned into a lively discussion about Haryana's political history. At the release of Arjun Singh Kadian's book "Power Pivots: Politics of Haryana in the 21st Century," by Captain Abhimanyu Singh Sindhu, Former Cabinet Minister of Haryana, almost fifty people showed up eager to learn how this often-overlooked state of Haryana has come to play a crucial role in India's political history.

Dismantling Myths About Haryana

Conventional depictions of Haryana were swiftly abandoned in the conversation between Kadian, moderator Lipika Bhushan, and former Haryana cabinet minister Captain Abhimanyu Singh Sindhu. Sindhu made a startling observation: dynasty politics, which persist across all political parties in the state, pose a greater threat than patriarchal society. He noted that women participation has actually increased significantly, particularly in rural areas, contradicting common perceptions about gender roles in Haryana politics.

From Rural Identity to Modern Success Stories

Arjun Singh Kadian opened his book by drawing parallels between Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra's rise and how Haryana residents now perceive themselves. The javelin Neeraj Chopra's success sparked enthusiasm for athletics across the state, demonstrating how success stories influence aspirations among the community members.

The author explained Haryana operates with what he terms a "panchayati mindset" – where messages from community leaders and elders spread rapidly through public networks, reaching even remote villages. This traditional communication pattern combined with data democratization has created unprecedented access to opportunities. "Once someone from the community succeeds in a field, that inspiration multiplies," Kadian observed.

Gurgaon's Ripple Effect

Gurgaon's transformation into a corporate hub has created a trickle-down effect throughout Haryana. Young people from smaller towns have been exposed to urban opportunities, education possibilities, and career advancement paths previously unavailable in their regions.

About the Author and Book 

Arjun SIngh Kadian, an alumnus of Observer Research Foundation and associated with institutions such as Indic Academy and the Rath Foundation, has impressive credentials to this fourth book. His other books include "Land of the Gods: The Story of Haryana," "The Modi Disruption: India in Transition," and "Neeraj Chopra: From Panipat to the Podium." Presently working at the Prime Minister's Museum and Library, Kadian has also set up the Haryana Thinkers Forum to give regional voices greater visibility.

 "Power Pivots" weaves together in-depth electoral analysis, policy assessment, and review of power structures to offer readers a deep understanding of contemporary Haryana politics. The book captures how regional developments in Haryana reflect broader national trends, making it essential reading for political scientists and citizens interested in India's political evolution.