The Catch Up: 10 February

Feb 10, 2025

Prime Minister Modi kicks off a four-day diplomatic tour, co-chairing an AI summit in France and honoring Indian soldiers. Meanwhile, political turmoil in Manipur unfolds as the Chief Minister resigns, with uncertainty looming over his successor. Additionally, the BJP prepares to appoint Delhi’s first Chief Minister in nearly three decades, highlighting the role of caste in this historic decision. The episode is packed with insights into leadership changes and international strategy.

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Political Updates and Economic Developments: A Global Perspective

00:00 • 5min

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 10th of February and here are the headlines.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a four-day trip to France and the US, starting today. In France, Modi will co-chair the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron from February 10 to 12. During his visit, he will also inaugurate India’s first consulate in Marseille and pay tribute to Indian soldiers at the Mazargues War Cemetery. Before embarking on his visit Modi referred to both Macron and US President Donald Trump as his "friends" and emphasized strengthening international cooperation in the fields of technology and diplomacy.

In another headline making news, Manipur's Chief Minister, N Biren Singh, resigned last night, setting off discussions about his replacement. The BJP's central leadership is expected to take time in finalizing a consensus candidate. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has asked Singh to remain in office until alternative arrangements are made. Meanwhile, Singh recommended suspending the Assembly, allowing time for MLAs to agree on a new leader. With no clear majority support for a successor, the Centre may consider imposing President's Rule. The resignation led to the nullification of an earlier order to convene the Assembly.

From one CM resigning to another, the BJP is set to select Delhi’s first Chief Minister from the party in nearly 30 years, with caste being a significant factor in the decision-making process. The choice comes amid an organizational shake-up, including the appointment of a new national president and team. RSS and BJP leaders will soon meet to discuss key positions, including the CM, Deputy CM, Assembly Speaker, and Council of Ministers. These discussions are expected to occur in the coming week, shaping the future leadership of Delhi.

On the global front, US President Donald Trump announced plans to impose a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminium imports, adding to existing duties. He intends to unveil the new metal tariffs, with reciprocal tariffs to follow tomorrow and day after tomorrow, targeting all countries. The tariffs are designed to match the rates imposed by other nations on US imports, possibly leading to repercussions, such as India potentially facing higher prices on steel and aluminium exports to the US.

In other news from across the country, YouTuber-podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia apologized after his comments on stand up comedian Samay Raina’s YouTube show, India’s Got Latent, sparked controversy. Allahbadia admitted his remarks were inappropriate and unfunny, expressing regret in a video statement. Earlier, a police complaint was filed against Ranveer, Raina, and fellow YouTubers Ashish Chanchalani and Apoorva Mukhija, accusing them of using abusive language on the show. The complaint, lodged with the Mumbai Commissioner and Maharashtra Women’s Commission, calls for legal action, though no FIR has been registered yet.

This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express