Explore the intriguing limitations of BMI as a health metric and discover the Body Roundness Index (BRI) as a promising alternative. Learn how BRI incorporates waist circumference for a better understanding of fat distribution, particularly for populations predisposed to abdominal fat. Dive into the impact of visceral fat on health issues like diabetes. Plus, get a practical guide on how to measure your own BRI at home, ensuring a more accurate representation of your health and risks.

In this exciting discussion, chess prodigies D Gukesh, R Praggnanandha, Arjun Erigaisi, Vidit Gujrathi, and seasoned player P Harikrishna reflect on India’s historic double gold at the Budapest Chess Olympiad. They dissect their team strategies and the psychological aspects that fueled their triumph. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by their female counterparts and the importance of support for emerging talents. Gukesh also shares insights on his rise and upcoming rivalries, particularly as he prepares for the World Championship.

Akshay Shinde, at the center of a high-profile rape case, discusses the controversial circumstances surrounding his police encounter that resulted in his death. He delves into the legalities of this incident, challenging the justification of self-defense claims. Senior advocate Mihir Desai weighs in on the constitutional right to life and emphasizes the need for independent investigations into police actions. The conversation also critiques India’s 'encounter culture' and explores the crucial balance between justice and the rule of law, urging for accountability and reform in the system.

Anurag Kumara Dissanayake, the new President of Sri Lanka and JVP leader, shares insights into the dramatic shifts in Sri Lankan politics. Political analyst Nirupama Subramanian and journalist Meera Srinivasan analyze post-election sentiment, from excitement to skepticism among citizens. They discuss the complexities of ethnic dynamics, governance, and the need to address minority concerns. Additionally, they explore the delicate balance in foreign relations with India and China as Sri Lanka charts a new diplomatic course.

Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams, seasoned NASA astronauts, share their unplanned journey of an extended eight-month stay at the ISS after issues with the Boeing Starliner. They discuss the technical hurdles that led to this situation and delve into the challenges of resupply and living conditions in space. The conversation highlights health impacts on astronauts in microgravity and the importance of exercise. They also touch on the future of the ISS and the possibility of India's involvement in upcoming space missions.

The podcast delves into a concerning report on the current state of democracies worldwide, revealing that many countries are experiencing a decline in democratic values and electoral participation. It highlights India's troubling rankings in key areas like representation and rights. The discussion also explores the impact of rising populism and global events on trust in electoral processes. Moreover, it addresses the judicialization of elections, declining voter turnout, and innovative voting methods that could help restore faith in democracy.

Explore the innovative world of biofortified crops aimed at fighting hidden hunger in India. Discover how these nutrient-dense varieties can combat micronutrient deficiencies and enhance public health. Learn about the fascinating methods behind biofortification, from genetic modification to selective breeding. Delve into the economic advantages for farmers and the importance of consumer acceptance. Uncover the challenges faced in adoption and the critical need for education to ensure a sustainable future for food security.

Jammu and Kashmir is set to hold its first assembly elections since the abrogation of Article 370. The polls will take place in three phases, on September 18, 25th and October 1. The counting of votes will happen on October 8.Given that these are the first assembly elections in ten years, what is the mood on the ground? What are the poll promises being made by the contending parties, and how do they stack up against each other in different parts of the Union Territory?Guest: Peerzada Ashiq, The Hindu’s Srinagar correspondent.Host: G. Sampath, Social Affairs Editor, The Hindu.Edited by Sharmada Venkatasubramanian.

Last July, a whistleblower in Kenya posted on social media that the country’s main international airport would be taken over by India’s Adani Group. The news sparked widespread outrage in Kenya. It has since emerged that the Kenya Airport Authority (KAA), which runs the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, has signed a $2.5 billion build-and-operate deal with the Adani Group. Under the agreement, the Adanis would renovate the airport and add a new runway and terminal, and in exchange, they would manage the airport for 30 years, after which they would get an 18% equity stake in it.Hundreds of airport workers protested against the deal on Wednesday, causing flight cancellations and leaving passengers stranded. Meanwhile, the Law Society of Kenya, the country’s bar association, and the Kenya Human Rights Commission have filed a joint application against the deal in the high court. The court on Monday issued an order suspending any action on the Adani proposal until the court case is settled.Why are Kenyans upset with this airport expansion project? Did the deal follow due process, in terms of transparency and bidding procedures? What are the demands of the Kenya Airport Workers Union?Guest: Senator Richard Onyonka, Member of Kenyan Parliament representing Kisii county.Host: G. Sampath, Social Affairs Editor, The Hindu.Edited by Sharmada Venkatasubramanian.

In this episode, we dive into the Uttar Pradesh government's new social media policy, which encourages influencers to promote the state's initiatives and achievements with incentives. However, this move has sparked controversy, with opposition parties criticizing it as an attempt to sway public opinion ahead of the upcoming elections.How does UP’s policy compare to other states? What are the rules for government advertising, and how does this new policy affect influencers and current practices?Guest: Apar Gupta, a lawyer, tech policy expert, and co-founder of the Internet Freedom FoundationHost: John Xavier, Technology Editor, The HinduEdited by Jude Francis Weston