3 Things

In this insightful discussion, Shaveta Sharma-Kukreja, CEO & Managing Director of Central Square Foundation, shares her expertise in foundational literacy and numeracy. She highlights the significant strides made since the NIPUN Bharat Mission's launch, showcasing improvements in literacy and numeracy through national surveys, particularly in Uttar Pradesh. Shaveta discusses best practices from various states and outlines strategies for sustaining educational momentum beyond 2027, aiming to eradicate early learning crises and elevate outcomes across the nation.

Shubham Tigga, a reporter for The Indian Express, discusses a troubling case in Jharkhand where five Thalassemia children tested HIV positive after transfusions. He explores the hospital's negligence and the state's response. Next, journalist Pavneet Singh Chadha dives into Goa's tourism issues, highlighting a decline in foreign visitors, visa complications, and rising prices. He also discusses local taxi unions and stakeholder optimism for the peak season despite challenges. Lastly, insights into the meeting between Trump and Xi reveal shifts in global power dynamics.

In today’s discussion, PM Modi fires back at Rahul Gandhi, accusing Congress of manipulating cultural sentiments for votes. An investigation into the tragic Karnool bus fire widens as authorities seek a third suspect. Tensions rise in Jammu and Kashmir with BJP's walkout demanding a discussion on flood relief. Meanwhile, Punjab tightens regulations on de-addiction centers amidst rising controversies. Lastly, Trump and Xi agree to a temporary halt on rare earth export risks at the APEC meeting, ensuring continued global supply.

Deeptiman Tiwary, political reporter for The Indian Express, delves into Prashant Kishor's new Jan Suraaj party, discussing his strategic shift from advisor to politician in Bihar, emphasizing youth employment and governance over caste politics. Anjali Marar, a science reporter, explains the controversial cloud-seeding initiative in Delhi, highlighting its methods, cost concerns, and doubts about its effectiveness in combatting air pollution. The conversation also touches on the troubling victim-blaming remarks surrounding a recent harassment incident involving Australian cricketers.

Tensions and diplomacy shape the narrative this time. India and China reaffirm their commitment to stability at the LAC, continuing the long dialogue to maintain peace. Amit Shah targets dynastic politics ahead of Bihar polls, urging voters to support local candidates. Meanwhile, Katra locals protest against plans for a new Vaishno Devi ropeway, vowing hunger strikes over its implications. A serious crime investigation unfolds with the murder of a Punjabi businessman in Canada, raising concerns in the community.

Ritika Chopra, a senior journalist at The Indian Express, dives into the Election Commission's nationwide voter roll revision, highlighting its differences from Bihar's flawed process. She discusses how new measures aim to prevent voter exclusions and aid migrants. Shubhajit Roy, Diplomatic Affairs editor, reveals the impact of US and EU sanctions on Russia, explaining how they may reshape India’s oil imports and energy strategy. The conversation also touches on Prashant Kishore's dual voter ID scandal, emphasizing its significance amid the ongoing voter identification reforms.

Cyclone Montha has rapidly intensified over the Bay of Bengal, prompting urgent evacuations in Odisha with extensive rescue operations underway. Political tensions rise in Bihar as Congress and RJD allies compete fiercely for electoral gains in an upcoming election. Meanwhile, Hurricane Melissa threatens the Caribbean and US with its Category 5 strength, and international relations heat up as Trump praises Japan's new prime minister amid trade discussions.

Vineet Bhalla, a legal journalist from The Indian Express, dives into the BCCI's Supreme Court push to criminalize match-fixing amid concerns over India's cricket integrity. He explores past scandals and the legal void that remains. Amrita Nayak Dutta, a defence reporter, discusses security lessons from Operation Sindhu, highlighting the need for enhanced air defence radars to combat drone incursions. She details the military's procurement plans for sophisticated radars to bolster detection and response capabilities against future threats.

The podcast delves into urgent news, including Tejashwi Yadav's vow to dismantle the VAKF Amendment Act, signaling a critical shift in Bihar's political landscape. Andhra Pradesh is on high alert as officials prepare for Cyclone Month, with red and orange alerts issued for coastal areas. Additionally, Hurricane Melissa is intensifying in the Caribbean, posing significant threats to multiple nations. The discussion also touches on the potential appointment of Justice Surya Kant as the next Chief Justice, highlighting his judicial record.

Anonna Dutt, a health reporter for The Indian Express, reveals the shocking issues surrounding fake ORS beverages that mislead and harm consumers. She discusses a campaign that successfully pushed for regulatory action against deceptive brands. Nikhila Henry, also from The Indian Express, shares harrowing details about the Kurnool bus tragedy that left 20 dead, including how forensic evidence pointed to a reckless motorcycle rider. The conversation wraps up with the impact of Gandhi Maidan's closure on job aspirants amid election preparations.