August 30, 2025

Once upon a time in India, Arthur Dunkel's name sparked massive protests. As the Director-General of GATT—the grand old boss before the WTO—Dunkel wanted lower tariffs, preaching free trade like a holy gospel. But back then, India was firmly socialist and saw Dunkel’s proposals as 'neo-imperialism.' Streets filled with rallies, voices opposing what they called a colonial hangover. Fast forward to today’s world, where a new villain has entered the stage: the 'Mar-a-Lago Uncle,' a nickname for the U.S. leadership known for protectionist policies that hit hard at global trade. Now, India is not the protester, but the defender of the WTO, standing tall against this protectionism. The twist? The same India that once swiped left on Dunkel’s GATT now swipes right on the WTO faster than a tech whiz in Delhi! This is a fresh, lively turn—showing how India’s trade stance has evolved with the times. Here's a spicy idea: why not relive those huge 1980s rallies across Indian cities, but this time cheering for Arthur Dunkel's vision? Imagine India becoming the proud torchbearer of global capitalism, shining light on how it’s not liberal ideas but the 'Mar-a-Lago Uncle' that’s blocking a richer world. Such nostalgia mixed with savvy pragmatism—let’s call it 'nostagmatism'—could boost India’s leadership in the global trade game. And all this wisdom comes at a bargain, cheaper than your daily tea! Who knew trade history could be so masaledar?

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Tags: India trade policy, Wto, Arthur dunkel, Mar-a-lago, Global trade, Protectionism,