ThePrint

The podcast dives into key discussions from the recent meeting between PM Modi and President Putin. Economic cooperation through 2030, including joint factories, is on the agenda. They explore free trade agreements and collaboration on fertilizers for food security. Rising India-Russia trade amidst US sanctions is highlighted. Talks on nuclear ties and mobility agreements for student exchanges reveal deeper connections. Additionally, they address peace efforts in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the introduction of e-visas, along with a new pharma factory.

Snehesh Alex Philip, a Defence and Diplomacy editor with deep insights into geopolitical issues, joins to discuss the highlights of the Modi-Putin talks. They explore strategic cooperation in defense, including joint military production and localization of components. The conversation delves into India's reliance on Russian fertilizers, new transport corridors, and initiatives in the Arctic. They also touch on critical minerals, arms-control treaties, and collaborative efforts to combat online radicalization and UAV misuse.

The discussion centers on the upcoming Modi-Putin meeting and its implications for India-Russia relations. Key topics include a new mobility agreement to facilitate Indian workers in Russia and Russia's push for defense sales, particularly the S-400. The podcast highlights India's challenge in balancing ties with both Russia and Western nations while aiming for a $100 billion trade target by 2030. It also touches on energy trade dynamics, technology transfer for India's rockets, and ongoing defense negotiations.

As Putin makes his 10th visit to India, historical ties between the two nations take center stage. The discussion dives into military purchases, from MiGs to submarines, shaping India's defense landscape. Gupta highlights the impact of the Ukraine conflict on India's procurement strategies and how Western sanctions complicate relationships. Furthermore, the growing Russia-China axis sparks concern for India's future alliances. Amidst these shifts, the podcast explores the enduring value of Russian military equipment to Indian operations.

Dissecting Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to India, the discussion highlights Chinese perceptions and anxieties about the summit. It reveals how Chinese commentators see the visit as crucial yet transactional, centered on energy and military ties. Weibo reactions reflect worries over potential Russian arms sales, particularly advanced weapon systems. The podcast also emphasizes India's strategic balancing act between global powers and its quest for autonomy amidst rising geopolitical tensions in the Asia-Pacific.

Nikhil Pahwa, founder and editor of MediaNama, delves into the government's recent decision to retract the mandatory installation of the Sanchar Saathi app on smartphones. He discusses the legal implications of forced app installations and highlights privacy concerns, such as the risks of background data collection and potential misuse. Pahwa emphasizes the need for user choice and warns about the coercive nature of SIM-binding. He also offers practical cyber-safety tips to navigate the evolving digital landscape.

Apar Gupta, Founder-Director of the Internet Freedom Foundation and expert in digital rights, joins to discuss the controversial Sanchar Saathi app. They explore its features like IMEI checks and fraud reporting, while also addressing major privacy concerns. Gupta emphasizes the risks of mandatory installs, including potential state overreach and data misuse. He advocates for less intrusive cyber safety measures and stresses the importance of public consultation before implementing such mandates. A thought-provoking dialogue on balancing safety and privacy!

The podcast dives into the critical issues surrounding judicial evaluations in India. It highlights the pain of litigants facing delays and opaque proceedings. Experts caution against rushed reforms that could threaten judicial independence. They discuss the need for evaluations aimed at genuine accountability and institutional feedback. The conversation explores global examples, warning of populist approaches that may concentrate power. Ultimately, the focus should be on reforming the system to benefit those waiting for justice.

A provocative statement from Andhra's Deputy CM about coconut tree deformities in Konaseema has ignited controversy. The remark, linking the region's greenery to the state's bifurcation, stirred tensions between Andhra and Telangana ahead of elections. Telangana leaders are calling for Kalyan to retract his comment, with some threatening to ban his films unless he apologizes. Critics are urging a scientific approach to tree diseases instead of attributing them to superstition. The political fallout highlights the charged atmosphere as loyalties and sentiments are tested.