3 Things

In this engaging discussion, journalist Aishwarya Raj sheds light on Uttarakhand's healthcare crisis, revealing alarming gaps and local protests demanding better services. She highlights tragic personal stories that showcase the system's failures. Meanwhile, economy reporter Udit Mishra breaks down the depreciation of the rupee, explaining its effects on inflation and trade, making the economic landscape more accessible. The conversation is rounded out by a significant political development in Tamil Nadu, as 44 parties unite against the Election Commission's proposed changes.

This week dives into the Election Commission's Phase 2 of voter revision across 12 states, emphasizing training plans. Tensions between India and China are tackled, highlighting their ongoing efforts to resolve LAC issues diplomatically. Bihar’s political scene heats up as PM Modi critiques local parties for failing traditions. In Katra, locals show strong opposition to a proposed ropeway project affecting thousands of families. Lastly, Trump and Xi strategize over rare earth exports during their recent talks in South Korea.

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.