3 Things

Prime Minister Modi advocates for global governance on artificial intelligence, citing its dual potential and challenges. Controversy arises as the Mumbai police investigate podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia for insensitive remarks during an online show. Meanwhile, political discourse heats up with critiques of the recent Union Budget, accused of favoring the wealthy. Amid this, concerns grow over a declining Indian stock market facing tariff fears.

Sukrita Baruah, a skilled reporter for The Indian Express, discusses the resignation of Manipur's Chief Minister amid ongoing ethnic strife, shedding light on political crises and community unrest. Mihir Vasavda, a co-host and reporter, explores the controversial decision by the Sports Ministry to discontinue cash prizes for junior athletes, emphasizing its implications for motivation and integrity in sports. Finally, they touch on Prime Minister Modi's visit to France, focusing on the collaboration in Artificial Intelligence policies and civil nuclear initiatives.

Prime Minister Modi kicks off a four-day diplomatic tour, co-chairing an AI summit in France and honoring Indian soldiers. Meanwhile, political turmoil in Manipur unfolds as the Chief Minister resigns, with uncertainty looming over his successor. Additionally, the BJP prepares to appoint Delhi’s first Chief Minister in nearly three decades, highlighting the role of caste in this historic decision. The episode is packed with insights into leadership changes and international strategy.

Mallica Joshi and Jatin Anand from The Indian Express provide sharp insights into the recent Delhi Assembly elections. They discuss the surprising voter shift away from the Aam Aadmi Party after a decade of governance, allowing the BJP to seize power for the first time in 27 years. The guests analyze the factors behind voter dissatisfaction and how BJP's campaign resonated with citizens. They also delve into the looming challenges for AAP in opposition and explore the implications for future political dynamics in Delhi.

The podcast dives into the deportation of 104 Indian nationals from the U.S. and the government's diplomatic engagement to ensure their humane treatment. It also analyzes the high-stakes Delhi elections, featuring a nail-biting contest among AAP, BJP, and Congress, with a 60.44% voter turnout. Additionally, it touches on the upcoming U.S.-India free trade agreement negotiations and highlights recent civilian incidents in Kashmir, alongside rising trade tensions with China.

Udit Misra, a reporter for The Indian Express, sheds light on the mechanics of tariffs and their implications, particularly in the tense US-China trade scenario. He explains how tariffs force consumers to pay more while reshaping global market dynamics. Sukrita Baruah discusses the dire situation at Assam’s Matia detention camp, addressing the Supreme Court's criticism of the government and the legal labyrinth detainees face. Finally, they explore the harsh realities of Indian deportees from the US, revealing the emotional toll of illegal migration and the government's response.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar discusses the deportation of 104 Indian citizens from the U.S., emphasizing the government's efforts to ensure humane treatment. Prime Minister Modi critiques the Congress party's focus on internal politics, contrasting it with ideals of national progress. A harrowing account from deportee Harwinder Singh reveals the traumatic conditions faced during repatriation, highlighting issues of dignity and care in the process. The conversation also touches on global concerns like Israel and tensions within domestic politics.

Arun Sharma, a reporter at The Indian Express, dives into the unsettling mystery of 17 unexplained deaths in Jammu's Baddal village, revealing how doctors and the state administration are stumped by the ongoing health crisis. He discusses alarming symptoms linked to potential neurotoxins. The conversation then shifts to Anonna Dutt, who explains the recent classification of packaged drinking water as high-risk food in India, emphasizing the need for tighter safety measures. Finally, there’s a look at the geopolitical implications of the U.S. potentially taking control of the Gaza Strip.

A U.S. military aircraft has returned over 100 deported Indian immigrants, highlighting a significant diplomatic event. The demographics are diverse, with many coming from Punjab and Gujarat. Meanwhile, Delhi is buzzing with elections as major parties vie for power, with reports of voter turnout and allegations of fake votes surfacing. On an international front, India is gearing up for free trade agreement talks with the U.S. soon, signaling a potential shift in economic relations.

Shubhajit Roy, Diplomatic Affairs Editor at The Indian Express, discusses the US's crackdown on illegal Indian migrants, highlighting its effects on diplomatic relations. Anonna Dutt, a health reporter, delves into the alarming outbreak of Guillain-Barré Syndrome in Pune, connecting it to sanitation issues and potential viral infections. The chat also veers into a fun culinary debate between biryani and upma, reflecting on cultural identity through food while addressing pressing social concerns in India.