3 Things

Tensions between India and Pakistan are escalating following a terror attack in Pahalgam. India has enacted strong diplomatic measures, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and expelling Pakistani diplomats. Prime Minister Modi's speech in Madhubani promised to take strict action against terrorists and emphasized national unity. The broader geopolitical implications, including the crisis in Ukraine, are also examined, highlighting how regional conflicts can influence global relations.

This episode features Naveed Iqbal, a journalist from The Indian Express, who delves into the Pahalgam terror attack, highlighting its dire security implications for the region. He emphasizes the impact on tourism and local safety. Joining him is Nikhil Ghanekar, also from The Indian Express, who unpacks the logistical challenges of India's Cheetah project, discussing how relocating these majestic animals could shape the ecosystem. The discussion wraps up with insights on a Tamil Nadu minister facing legal scrutiny.

A tragic terror attack in Pahalgam claims the lives of at least 26 people, drawing a strong response from Union Minister Amit Shah, who vows that Bharat will not bow to terror. The Jammu and Kashmir government steps in with financial aid for victims’ families. Prime Minister Modi is set to discuss national security strategies in light of this incident. Meanwhile, tensions rise as Pakistan denies involvement, although India remains skeptical of their claims following initial investigations.

First, we talk to The Indian Express' Diplomatic Affairs Editor Shubhajit Roy about US Vice President JD Vance's visit to India and what it means for the Indo-US ties, especially in the backdrop of US President Donald Trump's tariff regime.Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Nayonika Bose about an Olive Ridley turtle that took a remarkable journey and travelled 4500kms, all the way from India's east to west coast. (15:05)And lastly, we talk about the Maharashtra School Education Department announcing that Hindi will no longer be a mandatory third language. (24:24)Produced and Hosted by Niharika Nanda and Shashank BhargavaEdited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

This is the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I am Ichha Sharma.Today is the 22nd of April and here are today’s headlines.En route to Jeddah today for a two-day visit to Saudi Arabia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the nation as “one of India’s most valued partners — a maritime neighbour, a trusted friend and a strategic ally”. He also said that the partnership between the two countries has “limitless potential”. Modi is set to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman tonight, where both leaders are expected to discuss expanding cooperation in an array of crucial areas, such as energy, defence and trade, besides expediting Riyadh’s $100 billion investment plan for India. Besides bilateral ties, the two leaders will also exchange views on pressing regional and global issues, including the overall situation in West Asia.In the first high-level visit from the White House since the inauguration of President Donald Trump in January, US Vice-President J D Vance met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday and both sides “welcomed the significant progress” in negotiations towards a India-US bilateral trade pact, framing it as a “new and modern trade agreement.” Vance today praised India’s heritage and strategic partnership with the US, saying, “I believe there is much that the US and India can accomplish together.” Speaking in Jaipur, he noted that both nations are working toward a bilateral trade agreement based on shared priorities. Referring to past policies, Vance said, “We are not here to preach,” and highlighted President Trump’s vision to “rebalance global trade” and “build a bright new world” with partners like India. At least eight people, including tourists, were injured in a suspected militant attack in south Kashmir’s Pahalgam today. Sources said two of the injured are critical. According to sources, militants opened fire on tourists at Baisaran, an off-the-road meadow in Pahalgam. Baisaran is a popular destination among tourists. Police sources said that at least eight people, including tourists, were injured in the shootout. Police sources said the number of injured could increase.A few days after warning against judicial overreach, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasised today that Parliament is supreme, and elected representatives are the final arbiters of the Constitution. Addressing a gathering at an event called ‘Kartavyam’ in Delhi University, marking 75 years of the Constitution, Dhankhar said, “There is no visualisation in Constitution of any authority above Parliament… elected representatives… They are the ultimate masters as to what (the) Constitution content will be.” He referred to Indira Gandhi’s imposition of the Emergency in 1975 and her electoral defeat in 1977 to underscore how elected representatives are most accountable to the public.Gold prices are glittering above the Rs 1 lakh-level per 10 gm for the first time as the international prices surged after US President Donald Trump unveiled plans to overhaul the Federal Reserve. Gold consolidated its position as the best safe haven asset in the volatile global financial markets. The price of 24-karat gold (999 fineness) was quoted at Rs 1,00,000 per 10 gm in the Mumbai bullion market today. The price of 22 karat gold was quoted at Rs 91,600 per 10 gm on Tuesday as global markets continued to remain jittery over the Trump’s tariff plans and his threat to revamp the US Fed that could lead to a spike in inflation and interest rates.US President Donald Trump is facing a significant dip in his economic approval ratings, with his performance on the economy registering the lowest numbers of his presidency. According to the latest CNBC All-America Economic Survey, broad discontent over issues like tariffs, inflation, and government spending has contributed to this decline. The surge of economic optimism that followed Trump’s election in 2024 has all but disappeared, with more Americans now predicting that the economy will worsen, a stark shift from the hopeful outlook that marked earlier years. The survey revealed a sharp turn towards pessimism about the stock market as well, with many feeling uncertain about future economic prospects.This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express

Harikishan Sharma from The Indian Express shares insightful details about the Jal Jeevan Mission, aimed at providing clean tap water to millions of rural households in India. He discusses the financial hurdles the mission faces, including rising costs and lack of state funding. The conversation also highlights the recent tragic building collapse in Mustafabad, shedding light on rescue challenges. Lastly, they reflect on the legacy of Pope Francis following his passing, emphasizing his role in reforming the Catholic Church.

Prime Minister Modi envisions transformative policies shaping India for the next millennium, emphasizing inclusivity for all citizens. In a somber moment, the Vatican confirms the passing of Pope Francis, who dedicated his life to service. The podcast also covers a violent incident in West Bengal, with arrests made in connection to a tragic father-son duo killing. Additionally, it highlights ISRO's impressive satellite docking achievement and China's stern trade warning to the U.S., reflecting the intricate dynamics of global relations.

First, The Indian Express Deeptiman Tiwary discusses Mehul Choksi, a key accused in the Punjab National Bank loan fraud, was arrested in Belgium.Second, we talk to The Indian Express' Vidheesha Kuntamalla about the frequent US visa revocations of the Indian students and its implications. (10:59)Lastly, we speak about why BJP MP Nishikant Dubey is again at the center of a controversy. (18:55)Hosted by Ichha SharmaProduced and written by Shashank Bhargava, Niharika Nanda and Ichha SharmaEdited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Ichha Sharma.Today is the 18th of April and here are this week’s headlines.Fugitive diamond trader Mehul Choksi has been arrested in Belgium following an extradition request by India, according to sources. Choksi is wanted by the CBI and Enforcement Directorate in the ₹13,000 crore Punjab National Bank fraud case. He had been residing in Antwerp on a residency card after previously living in Antigua and Barbuda. Earlier this year, India, via the Ministry of External Affairs, formally requested Belgium to extradite him. Choksi’s wife, Preeti, holds Belgian citizenship, and the legal process for extradition is now underway.The Enforcement Directorate filed a chargesheet against Congress leaders Sonia and Rahul Gandhi in the National Herald money laundering case. Special Judge Vishal Gogne reviewed the chargesheet on April 9 to consider cognisance and scheduled further proceedings for April 25. Other individuals named include senior Congress leaders Sam Pitroda and Suman Dubey. The case, which has long been politically contentious, involves allegations of financial irregularities linked to the now-defunct National Herald newspaper, formerly owned by Congress-linked entities. The ED’s action intensifies legal scrutiny on the Gandhi family and Congress leadership.The Supreme Court strongly criticized the recent violence linked to amendments in the Waqf Act. During a hearing on related petitions, Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna remarked that the unrest was "very disturbing" and stressed the matter is now under judicial review. Solicitor-General Tushar Mehta agreed, warning of a growing trend to pressure legal institutions. The three-judge bench’s focus was both on assessing the legality of the amendments and addressing the troubling nationwide unrest, which has sparked political and public concern amid ongoing legal deliberations.Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna has formally recommended Justice B R Gavai as his successor in a letter to the Union Law Ministry. Once approved, Justice Gavai, currently the second-most senior judge in the Supreme Court, will become India’s 52nd Chief Justice. Elevated to the top court in May 2019, Justice Gavai, now 64, will assume office following Justice Khanna’s retirement on May 13, 2025. His tenure is expected to last until November 23, the mandatory retirement age for Supreme Court judges being 65 years.In a dramatic escalation of the U.S.–China trade war, the Trump administration has imposed 245% tariffs on all Chinese imports. The announcement, made via a late-night White House fact sheet, came after Beijing retaliated against earlier U.S. tariffs, sparking global market jitters. Citing unfair taxation by foreign nations, Trump had previously levied 10% tariffs on all such countries, which were later paused to encourage trade talks. The revived tariff blitz, unveiled on Liberation Day, underscores rising tensions and signals a hardened U.S. trade stance under Trump’s leadership.This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

Varinder Bhatia, a journalist from The Indian Express, dives into the intricate details of the Robert Vadra and DLF land case, discussing recent summons from the Enforcement Directorate and the political tensions surrounding it. He reveals allegations of political vendetta and examines the role of key figures like IAS officer Ashok Khemka. The conversation then shifts to Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi's controversial remarks encouraging religious chanting in schools, prompting discussions on secularism. Lastly, it touches on the political dynamics affecting Assam's panchayat elections.