3 Things

Aishwarya Raj, a dedicated reporter at The Indian Express specializing in regional news, discusses the Ankita Bhandari murder case and the fierce protests it has sparked in Uttarakhand. New evidence, including videos implicating a BJP leader, has reignited public outrage. She delves into the details of the murder investigation and the socio-political fallout, highlighting demands for a CBI probe. Additionally, the conversation touches on the Supreme Court's bail order in the Northeast Delhi riots case and its implications for accused activists.

Violence erupted during the Turkmen Gate demolition, leading to arrests and injuries as police deployed tear gas. Meanwhile, the NMC's withdrawal of medical college permission raises concerns over student relocations. The Kerala High Court’s ruling allows divorced Muslim women to seek maintenance payments. In Maharashtra, the BJP faces pressure to end municipal alliances before upcoming polls. Additionally, Trump discusses a significant oil supply from Venezuela, hinting at possible revivals in the oil sector.

Sukrita Baruah, a journalist at The Indian Express specializing in Assam and the Northeast, discusses the revival of the Immigrants Expulsion from Assam Act from 1950 and its implications for declared foreigners. Jayprakash S Naidu, covering Chhattisgarh, dives into the recent vandalism of Christmas decorations at Raipur's Magneto Mall, linking it to a burial dispute and communal tensions. Together, they touch on the ED's investigations into climate advocacy funding, raising concerns over foreign influence on energy policy.

Anand Mohan, an investigative reporter at The Indian Express, delves into the tragic Indore water contamination crisis, highlighting administrative failures and the community's outrage. Ravi Dutta Mishra, a trade and economics reporter, discusses the effects of US tariffs on Indian exports, revealing challenges like container shortages and rising costs. Meanwhile, K Kavitha, former BRS leader, resigns dramatically, slamming her party and hinting at future plans. A blend of local tragedy, trade turmoil, and political drama unfolds!

The Supreme Court's denial of bail to controversial figures Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam sparks debate. A magistrate's suspension over a politically motivated order highlights tensions in Ujjain amid protests. The U.S. asserts it's not at war with Venezuela despite recent strikes, while also hinting at potential tariffs on India related to Russian oil imports. Additionally, Trump threatens Iran with strong action if violence against protesters continues, intensifying international scrutiny on these developments.

Shubhajit Roy, the Diplomatic Affairs Editor at The Indian Express, dives into the shifting landscape of India's foreign policy in 2025. He discusses the disruptions caused by Trump 2.0 and heightened tensions with Pakistan, alongside emerging challenges in Nepal and Bangladesh. Roy also touches on India's pragmatic engagement with China despite ongoing border issues, its role in the Ukraine peace efforts, and the strategic balancing act with Russia. He outlines significant diplomatic tests awaiting India in 2026.

This week, the spotlight is on PM Modi's enlightening New Year message, complete with a poetic Sanskrit verse looking ahead to 2026. Delivery workers are on the front lines, protesting unsafe working conditions and excessive delivery times. Exciting developments in India's transport scene shine through, with a timeline for the first bullet train. Lastly, the Supreme Court's recent ruling on the Aravalli Hills keeps environmental issues in the news, while China's claims of mediation in regional hotspots raise eyebrows.

Karan Mahadik, a technology reporter at The Indian Express specializing in AI and tech policy, reflects on 2025's AI milestones. He discusses how Trump's policies reshaped US AI investment and regulatory landscapes. The rise of DeepSeek is explored, highlighting its challenge to US dominance. Karan also covers AI's influence on search behaviors, mental health risks from chatbots, and controversies emerged from AI-driven job cuts. He concludes with a look ahead to the India AI Impact Summit and the future landscape of AI.

Flora Swain kicks things off with a look at the day's major headlines. PM Modi shares a heartfelt New Year message alongside an inspiring Sanskrit verse. Excitement builds as railway authorities unveil timelines for India's first bullet train service. The investigation into the Sabarimala gold theft expands, revealing more missing artifacts. A New Year's celebration ends in tragedy with a bar explosion in Switzerland, sparking a police probe. Meanwhile, New York City welcomes Zohran Mamdani as its first Muslim mayor.

Reflecting on the highs of 2025, sports fans relive thrilling moments like Max Verstappen's late surge in Formula One and Crystal Palace's unexpected triumphs in football. Carlos Alcaraz's epic comeback at the French Open and India's Women's World Cup victory spark discussion about unity and legacy. Highlights from the India-England series, Arshdeep Singh's viral charm, and buzzer-beaters in Indian basketball add to the excitement. The hosts and colleagues share their personal favorites, rounding off a year filled with unforgettable sports drama.