TDP adulterated laddu case, Potash in Punjab, and PM Modi's France visit
Feb 13, 2025
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Nikhila Henry, a reporter for The Indian Express, reveals shocking details about the TDP's adulterated prasadam scandal at the Tirupati temple, highlighting how a blacklisted dairy company continued to supply tainted ghee. Raakhi Jagga discusses the recent discovery of potash reserves in Punjab, emphasizing its potential impact on Indian agriculture and local farmers' concerns. The conversation also touches on Prime Minister Modi's visit to France, focusing on bolstered Indo-French relations and key trade discussions.
The TDP adulterated prasadam case revealed a scandal involving a blacklisted firm supplying contaminated ghee through proxy companies, sparking public outrage.
PM Modi's France visit emphasized strengthened diplomatic ties, focusing on trade discussions, ethical AI practices, and commemorating historical connections between India and France.
Deep dives
Adulteration Scandal at the Tirupati Temple
The investigation into the adulteration of Prasadam at the Tirupati temple revealed the involvement of a blacklisted company, Bholibaba Organic Dairy Limited, which was found to be supplying contaminated ghee. This company had been disqualified from supplying ghee due to insufficient quality control and was allegedly using proxy firms, Vaishnavi Dairy and AR Dairy, to continue its operations secretly. The scandal erupted when a new government administration inspected the ghee, leading to the discovery of animal and vegetable fats in samples taken from the proxy suppliers. The situation has resulted in significant public outrage and a formal investigation by a special team, with four executives from the implicated companies now facing charges.
Concerns Over Potash Reserves in Punjab
The Geological Survey of India has identified significant potash reserves in Punjab, particularly in the districts of Fazilka and Sri Muktasar Sahib, which hold great potential for the agriculture sector. However, local farmers have expressed concerns about the mining process, fearing land acquisition and negative impacts on groundwater and soil quality. Despite assurances from government officials that land would not be taken, farmers demand written guarantees and remain skeptical about the potential environmental effects. As the government moves forward with exploration, the need for clear communication and addressing farmer apprehensions continues to be critical.
Strengthening Indo-French Relations
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France underscored the strengthening ties between India and France through discussions on trade, artificial intelligence, and security. During the visit, both leaders highlighted the importance of ethical practices in AI, and Modi paid tribute to Indian soldiers at a cemetery, reinforcing historical connections between the two nations. Additionally, the inauguration of the Indian consulate in Marseille marked a significant step in enhancing diplomatic representation and community support. This visit, coupled with ongoing discussions with the U.S., signifies India's aim to deepen its strategic partnerships and promote economic collaboration.
First, we talk to The Indian Express’ Nikhila Henry about the revelations in the TDP adulterated prasadam at the Tirupati temple case. She talks about a blacklisted and disqualified firm that was supplying ghee for the prasadam via its proxies.
Next, The Indian Express' Raakhi Jagga shares details of Potash reserves being discovered in Punjab and significance it holds for India. (9:54)
Finally, we talk about PM Modi's visit to France and his meeting with President Emmanuel Macron. (19:42)
Produced and hosted by Niharika Nanda Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar
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