3 Things

Sandeep Dwivedi, National Sports Editor at The Indian Express, dives into the heated India-Pakistan cricket rivalry, spurred by the Indian team's refusal to shake hands, which could complicate future relations. He highlights the lack of formal handshake rules in cricket and reflects on the tradition’s significance. The discussion shifts to the controversial demolition of hockey legend Mohammed Shahid’s ancestral home, triggering political backlash, and wraps with the tragic scaffolding collapse in Chennai, claiming nine lives and prompting urgent investigations.

Explore a series of riveting headlines as the show covers Prime Minister Modi honoring RSS centenary with commemorative stamps and coins. In a tense turn of events, police thwart an exam leak in Odisha, detaining 117 candidates and middlemen, leading to an exam postponement. Meanwhile, a powerful 6.9 earthquake rocks Cebu, prompting extensive rescue efforts. Additionally, the U.S. government faces a shutdown due to Senate voting issues, impacting federal services and employees alike.

Jay Mazoomdaar, an investigative journalist for The Indian Express, reveals the inner workings of the Central Board of Film Certification, highlighting allegations of it being operated like a one-man show and increasing ideological pressures in censorship. Anjali Marar, also from The Indian Express, discusses India's ambitions in deep-sea resource mining, particularly the recent contract for exploring polymetallic sulphides at the Carlsberg Ridge, and the strategic significance of these minerals. The podcast wraps with insights on Bihar's voter list revisions.

Heavy rain in Delhi triggers an orange alert, affecting flights and upcoming festivals. PM Modi praises Trump's peace proposal for Gaza, stirring political conversations. Meanwhile, the U.S. faces a potential government shutdown amid partisan disputes. In international news, the Taliban enforces a nationwide telecom blackout, disrupting media access in Afghanistan. Lastly, rescue efforts are underway after a tragic school collapse in Indonesia leaves students trapped.

Deeptiman Tiwary, a journalist from The Indian Express, sheds light on the tumultuous protests in Ladakh, sparked by demands for statehood and leading to the detention of activist Sonam Wangchuk. Aiswarya Raj delves into the Uttarakhand recruitment exam scandal, exposing a paper leak scheme that has ignited fierce student protests. They also reflect on Prime Minister Modi's role in writing the foreword for Giorgia Meloni's memoir, discussing its implications for India-Italy relations and shared nationalist sentiments.

This week delves into the escalating tensions in Ladakh after talks collapse due to violent protests and arrests. A tragic stampede in Tamil Nadu claims 41 lives, prompting a judicial inquiry into the rally's organizers. In Maharashtra, unrest erupts over controversial graffiti, leading to violent protests and arrests. PM Modi shares insights on Meloni's autobiography, drawing parallels with his own messages. Meanwhile, Vietnam and Laos deal with the aftermath of Typhoon Bulia, facing significant flooding and devastation.

Ravi Dutta Misra, a journalist from The Indian Express specializing in trade policy, discusses the implications of new US tariffs on India's pharma sector, highlighting potential setbacks for R&D. Shubham Tigga, another reporter for The Indian Express focusing on labor issues, shares a gripping account of 13 Jharkhand workers lured by false promises and trapped in dangerous conditions. Their harrowing rescue sheds light on the grim reality of migrant worker exploitation in India, coinciding with a tragic stampede during a political rally in Tamil Nadu.

This week, protests in Ladakh escalate, with clashes erupting as residents demand statehood and special status. In Kolkata, deadly floods disrupt daily life, leaving many affected. Meanwhile, the CBI opens a probe into alleged violations involving a prominent environmentalist. Uttar Pradesh enforces a ban on caste-based political rallies to maintain order. Businesses start offering discounts ahead of impending GST changes, while Ukraine's president seeks strengthened ties with India despite its ties with Russia.

Raakhi Jagga, a reporter with The Indian Express covering Punjab, shares vital insights on the recent devastating floods and the ongoing rehabilitation efforts. She discusses the creative use of local venues for relief and the inspiring involvement of celebrities and NGOs in rebuilding communities. Raakhi also delves into the political dynamics surrounding flood aid, including PM Modi's response. Additionally, she touches on the rising unrest in Ladakh, where residents are demanding statehood and protections, highlighting the region's complex socio-political landscape.

A CBI probe into Sonam Wangchuk brings attention to allegations of FCRA violations amid unrest in Ladakh. The Supreme Court strikes down Rajasthan's VAT exemption for fly ash, deemed unconstitutional. India's Agni Prime missile is successfully tested from a rail launcher, showcasing enhanced mobility. In family news, the Delhi High Court demands asset disclosures in the Kapoor dispute. Lastly, India nominates 'Homebound' for the Oscars as the film industry faces certification challenges.