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This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Ichha Sharma.
Today is the 08th of November and here are the headlines.
A tragic accident occurred in Uttarakhand’s Almora on Monday, where at least 36 people died when a bus carrying 42 passengers lost control and fell into a gorge near Marchula. The bus was traveling from Kirath to Ramnagar when it went off the road. Initial reports indicated that the crash was so severe that several passengers were thrown from the vehicle.
Leaders of Canada’s three major federal parties condemned violent clashes that occurred during a visit by Indian consular officials to a Hindu temple in Brampton. Following the incidents, the High Commission of India expressed disappointment over the disruptions affecting routine consular work. Sikhs for Justice, a banned group advocating for Khalistan, claimed responsibility for the protests against the Indian officials, who were present to offer administrative services, including pension assistance for seniors.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump scripted history on Wednesday, becoming the first President in 120 years to return to power after being ousted after his first term. Addressing his supporters after winning three swing states of North Carolina, Georgia and Pennsylvania, Trump laid the blueprint of his second term. With at least 51 Senate seats secured, Republicans will retake control of the chamber for the first time in four years. As soon as the results were officially declared, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated American President Donald Trump on his election and stated, quote “As you build on the successes of your previous term, I look forward to renewing our collaboration to further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership,” unquote.
The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Wednesday passed a resolution for the restoration of its special status, calling upon the “Government of India to initiate dialogue with elected representatives” of the Union Territory to work out “constitutional mechanisms for restoring these provisions”, even as the BJP protested the move. The resolution said that the Assembly “reaffirms the importance of the special status and constitutional guarantees, which safeguarded the identity, culture, and rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and expresses concern over their unilateral removal”. It further added that “any process for restoration must safeguard both national unity and the legitimate aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir”.
Sharad Pawar, the Nationalist Congress Party chief, hinted at retiring from active parliamentary politics, signaling his intention to pass the leadership baton to younger generations. Speaking about Maharashtra’s Baramati constituency, Pawar emphasized the importance of youth leadership for the next 30 years. While Pawar stated he would step back from electoral politics, he confirmed his continued involvement in public service. His message underscored his faith in his family’s legacy and the need for fresh leadership, urging support for Yugendra Pawar in the upcoming Assembly elections.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express' Ajoy Sinha Karpuram talks about the Supreme Court's verdict on the Madarsa Act 2004. He shares everything you need to know about the act, the verdict and more.
Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Kiran Parashar who shares with us the story of a village in Karnataka where untouchability is still a practice. He talks about an incident that happened in 2014 and verdict that was given by the court regarding it, according to which 98 people were punished with life imprisonment. (14:35)
Finally, we talk about Canada introducing a change in its visa policy. (25:38)
Produced and hosted by Niharika Nanda
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar -
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This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 07th of November and here are the headlines.
The Bandra police in Mumbai received a threatening call demanding Rs 50 lakh from Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan. The caller, who threatened to kill Khan, was identified as Faizan Khan from Raipur, Chhattisgarh. An FIR has been registered under sections related to extortion and criminal intimidation. Police teams have been dispatched to Raipur for his arrest. The call was made on Tuesday evening, and the investigation is ongoing.
The Supreme Court of India ordered the liquidation of Jet Airways under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), overturning a National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) decision that approved the transfer of ownership to the Jalan KalRock Consortium. The bench, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud ruled in favor of the lenders, including the State Bank of India. The consortium had proposed an Rs 4783 crore payment, but the liquidation order now takes precedence.
The Goa government issued a clarification responding to criticism of its tourism infrastructure, including comparisons to international destinations like Sri Lanka. The Department of Tourism emphasized that Goa is a state within India, and comparing it to foreign countries may give an inaccurate perspective. The clarification follows public discussions about the state’s tourism sector and infrastructure, defending Goa's position while addressing concerns raised about its current tourism offerings.
A Hindu temple priest in Brampton, Canada, has been suspended for spreading violent rhetoric during clashes between Khalistani supporters and other temple attendees. The incident, which occurred on November 3 at the Hindu Sabha temple, saw protestors carrying Khalistani flags clashing with attendees, leading to fistfights and pole strikes. Unverified videos circulating on social media show the altercations disrupting a consular event co-organized by the temple and the Indian Consulate.
Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated Donald Trump on his election victory, urging China and the US to improve dialogue and manage differences. Despite past tensions, including Trump labeling China as a “strategic rival,” Xi emphasized communication. Trump’s administration had imposed tariffs on Chinese imports, a policy he has indicated will continue in his new term. Both nations are expected to navigate complex trade and diplomatic challenges as they continue to assert their global positions.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express’ Diplomatic Affairs Editor, Shubhajit Roy, discusses what Donald Trump being elected as the US's 47th President means for India.
Next, The Indian Express’ Vikas Pathak talks about the BJP’s promise to carve out an exemption for the tribal community in the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC), and explains why the party is choosing to do so (11:02).
And finally, The Indian Express’ Naveed Iqbal shares reactions to the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly passing a resolution to restore the region’s special status (20:15).
Hosted, written and produced by Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Niharika Nanda.
Today is the 06th of November and here are the headlines.
Starting with global news, Donald Trump scripted history today, becoming the first President in 120 years to return to power after being ousted after his first term. Addressing his supporters after winning three swing states of North Carolina, Georgia and Pennsylvania, Trump laid the blueprint of his second term. With at least 51 Senate seats secured, Republicans will retake control of the chamber for the first time in four years. As soon as the results were officially declared, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated American President Donald Trump on his election and stated, quote “As you build on the successes of your previous term, I look forward to renewing our collaboration to further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership,” unquote.
The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly today passed a resolution for the restoration of its special status, calling upon the “Government of India to initiate dialogue with elected representatives” of the Union Territory to work out “constitutional mechanisms for restoring these provisions”, even as the BJP protested the move. The resolution said that the Assembly “reaffirms the importance of the special status and constitutional guarantees, which safeguarded the identity, culture, and rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and expresses concern over their unilateral removal”. It further added that “any process for restoration must safeguard both national unity and the legitimate aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir”.
Pulling up Uttar Pradesh authorities for their “high-handed” approach in demolishing a house for widening a road without giving notice, the Supreme Court today directed them to pay the owner Rs 25 lakh as compensation. The three-judge bench, which was presided over by Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud, was hearing a suo motu writ petition registered in 2020 based on a letter complaint by Maharajganj resident Manoj Tibrewal Aakash, whose house was demolished in 2019. CJI Chandrachud said, quote “This is completely high-handed. Where is the due process followed? We have the affidavit that says no notice was issued. You only went to the site and informed the people through a loudspeaker,” unquote.
The BJP expelled 37 office-bearers across the state today who are set to contest as Independents in the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections, citing “indiscipline”. Highly placed sources in the BJP confirmed the development and said that despite repeatedly urging the rebels to withdraw their candidature, these 37 candidates who hold different posts in their respective district units did not pay heed to the party’s request. A senior party functionary stated, quote “In the BJP, there is no scope for anti-party activities. Party leaders tried to reason with each leader but those who fail to conform to party norms have to pay the price,”, unquote.
With both sides of the border grappling with a common crisis, Marriyum Aurangzeb, Senior Minister in the Government of Punjab in Pakistan, has told The Indian Express that it is “high time for India and Pakistan, and especially Punjabs on both sides of the border, to initiate a joint smog mitigation plan”. Two days ago, the air quality index in Lahore hit a high of 1900, briefly giving it the unenviable tag of the world’s most polluted city. In an SOS from across the border, Aurangzeb, who also holds the environment protection and climate change portfolio in Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif-led Punjab provincial government, claimed the “Eastern corridor winds blowing from India towards Lahore” were taking the smog to dangerous levels.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express' Manraj Grewal Sharma talks about the violent clash that happened at a temple in Brampton, Canada. She shares how it unfolded, why it happened and how it impacts the relationship between India and Canada.
Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Aditi Raja who talks about the Dinosaur park and museum of Balasinor in Gujarat. She shares details of the fossils it houses, its history and the challenges the park faces. (12:18)
Finally, we talk about an accident that happened at the construction site of the Mumbai-Ahmadabad bullet train. (28:34)
Written, produced and hosted by Niharika Nanda
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 5th of November and here are the headlines
In a landmark decision, a 9-judge bench of the Supreme Court ruled that not all private property can be considered a "material resource of the community" under Article 39(b) for redistribution. Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud delivered the majority ruling, supported by six justices, while Justice BV Nagarathna agreed in a concurring opinion. Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia dissented. This ruling, which overturns decades of legal precedent, is a significant shift in the interpretation of property rights in India.
Andhra Pradesh Home Minister V. Anitha, criticized by Jana Sena Party (JSP) leader Pawan Kalyan for rising crimes against women, responded by accepting the criticism constructively. Anitha, a two-time MLA, expressed that the feedback motivates her to improve and better meet public expectations. Despite the criticism, she emphasized her focus on addressing concerns seriously. Anitha, who is an ally of Kalyan’s party, added that she spoke to him over the phone and will continue to work towards improving the situation.
Sharad Pawar, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief, hinted at retiring from active parliamentary politics, signaling his intention to pass the leadership baton to younger generations. Speaking about Maharashtra’s Baramati constituency, Pawar emphasized the importance of youth leadership for the next 30 years. While Pawar stated he would step back from electoral politics, he confirmed his continued involvement in public service. His message underscored his faith in his family’s legacy and the need for fresh leadership, urging support for Yugendra Pawar in the upcoming Assembly elections.
The Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of the Uttar Pradesh Board of Madarsa Education Act, 2004, with one major exception. The court ruled that provisions allowing the Board to award higher degrees like Fazil and Kamil are unconstitutional, as they conflict with the University Grants Commission Act of 1956. A three-judge bench, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, overturned an earlier Allahabad High Court ruling that had declared the Act unconstitutional, marking a significant judgment on madarsa education regulations.
Voting has begun in more than 20 U.S. states for the 2024 Presidential Election, including key battlegrounds like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and North Carolina. Other states joining in the process include Ohio, Georgia, and Virginia. The first ballots were cast in Dixville Notch, New Hampshire, in a long-standing tradition, with both Democratic candidate Kamala Harris and Republican contender Donald Trump tied with three votes each. As polls open across the country, all eyes are on these swing states to determine the election's outcome.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express’ Diplomatic Affairs Editor, Shubhajit Roy, discusses the ongoing tensions between India and Canada and the significance of the allegations against Home Minister Amit Shah.
Next, The Indian Express’ Anonna Dutt shares key highlights from the latest Global TB Report and the challenges India faces in eliminating tuberculosis (11:38).
Finally, The Indian Express’ Mihir Vasavda talks about India’s plans to adjust its Olympic funding scheme following its lackluster performance in Paris (21:26).
Hosted, written and produced by Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 4th of November and here are the headlines.
A tragic accident occurred in Uttarakhand’s Almora, where at least 36 people died when a bus carrying 42 passengers lost control and fell into a gorge near Marchula. The bus was traveling from Kirath of Nainidanda to Ramnagar when it went off the road. Initial reports indicate that the crash was so severe that several passengers were thrown from the vehicle. Rescue operations are ongoing, and officials warn that the death toll may rise as efforts continue.
In a dramatic session of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, lawmakers engaged in a heated debate as it convened for the first time in six years. The discussion was ignited by People’s Democratic Party (PDP) legislator Waheed Para, who proposed a resolution opposing the abrogation of Article 370. In response, the Council of Ministers called for restoring statehood, reflecting public sentiment. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha assured members that the government would do everything possible to restore the state’s status.
The Mumbai Police are facing a significant issue with over Rs 7 crore in unpaid dues from various government agencies for security services. Data revealed through a Right to Information request shows that at least 14 agencies owe a total of Rs 7,10,67,252 for services rendered over the past seven years. The Income Tax department is the largest defaulter, followed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Leaders of Canada’s three major federal parties condemned violent clashes that occurred during a visit by Indian consular officials to a Hindu temple in Brampton. Following the incidents, the High Commission of India expressed disappointment over the disruptions affecting routine consular work. Sikhs for Justice, a banned group advocating for Khalistan, claimed responsibility for the protests against the Indian officials, who were present to offer administrative services, including pension assistance for seniors.
As the United States presidential elections approach, the spotlight is on the tight race between Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and Republican candidate Donald Trump. Both candidates plan to hold rallies in Pennsylvania and visit swing states. Recent opinion polls show Harris receiving strong support from female voters, while Trump is gaining traction among Hispanic men. Trump aims for a comeback after his controversial exit in 2020, while Harris seeks to make history as the first woman president.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
Are you someone who does not have health insurance? Or you do, but are wondering if you should switch plans, or worried that you missed out on something? In this special episode, we speak to Indian Express’ Anonna Dutt to discuss the A to Z of getting health insurance. We will break down jargon, consider all important factors, and bust myths to help you make an informed decision.
Hosted, written and produced by Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar
(This episode was first published on 1st July, 2024).
Timestamps:
01:50 - Why you should get health insurance
04:42 - How health insurance works
05:15 - At what age should you get health insurance?
06:45 - Is there an age limit?
07:28 - Should one choose a public company or a private one?
08:07 - What is a claim settlement ratio?
08:58 - The importance of a good network of hospitals
09:50 - How much coverage should you get?
10:47 - What is a waiting period?
12:06 - How much would you typically end up spending on health insurance?
12:54 - Is the insurance provided by your workplace sufficient?
13:56 - Benefits of sticking to an insurance plan
14:27 - What factors determine your premium?
15:45 - Why you should not lie when getting health insurance
17:32 - Why almost no one covers OPD expenses
19:34 - What do policies usually exclude?
21:37 - How insurance companies avoid paying for mental health treatment
23:02 - Are maternity-related expenses covered?
23:54 - Are daycare procedures covered?
25:32 - Discussing hospital room rents
26:08 - Beware of Co-pay
28:20 - How are pre- and post-hospitalization costs covered?
30:20 - What is a no-claim bonus?
31:02 - What are sub-limits?
31:57 - Benefits and disadvantages of a family floater plan
33:55 - Common reasons why claims get rejected
34:44 - The types of individuals that insurance companies try to avoid
36:39 - Key takeaways -
During the festive season, people across the country come together to celebrate, with food—sweet, savory, and deep-fried—often taking center stage. While these treats are fine in moderation, we often indulge more than we should. But how much is too much, and are there ways to make our celebrations healthier?
To explore these questions, we speak to Dr Ritika Samaddar, Regional Head, Nutrition And Dietetics, Max Super Speciality Hospital (Delhi).
(Note: We are off for Diwali and our next episode will air on the 4th of November).
Hosted and produced by Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 29th of October and here are the headlines
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched health cards under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana to provide health coverage for individuals aged 70 and older, irrespective of their income or economic status. The Ayushman Vaya Vandana card initiates this expanded scheme, aimed at transforming public healthcare access for India's rapidly growing elderly population. Each eligible individual will receive an annual coverage of Rs 5 lakh, which can be shared within families. For households with two elderly beneficiaries, the coverage will be split, ensuring that essential healthcare becomes more accessible to senior citizens.
All three militants who attacked an Army ambulance in Jammu’s Khour town were killed by security forces after a 24-hour operation. The White Knight Corps reported, "After round-the-clock surveillance, an intense firefight this morning resulted in a significant victory for our forces." They praised the relentless operations and tactical excellence that led to the militants' elimination. While the identities of the slain militants have not been confirmed, security forces believe they were affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammad.
Mumbai MLA Zeeshan Siddique and actor Salman Khan received new threats from a 20-year-old man in Noida, who aimed to extort money from them. The accused, identified as Gurphan Khan, was arrested by the police after sending a threatening message to Siddique's public complaint mobile number. The Nirmal Nagar police in Bandra (East) registered an extortion case on Monday. The Crime Branch took action, apprehending Khan for allegedly sending the threats, which included death threats to both Siddique and Salman Khan, on October 25.
For the Maharashtra assembly polls, the NCP-SP announced five candidates on Tuesday, making a notable change for the Mohol assembly seat by selecting Raju Khare in place of Siddhi Kadam, daughter of former MLA Ramesh Kadam. Anil Sawant will contest from Pandharpur, where the Congress has nominated Bhagirath Bhalke. In Solapur, Abhijit Patil will represent Madha, while Girish Karale will run for Morshi. Sangita Waje is set to contest from Mulund in Mumbai.
An Israeli strike on a five-story building in northern Gaza, where displaced Palestinians were sheltering, killed at least 60 people early today, including many women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Separately, Lebanon's militant group Hezbollah announced Sheikh Naim Kassem as the successor to the late leader Hassan Nasrallah, who died in an Israeli airstrike last month. Hezbollah pledged to uphold Nasrallah’s policies “until victory is achieved.”
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express' Jayprakash S. Naidu explains the situation in Hasdeo forest, Chhattisgarh. He talks about the mining issue, the violence that broke out in the area last week, the villagers' protest, the reasons behind it and the government and opposition's response on the same.
Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Anonna Dutt about one of the major causes behind blindness in India - corneal damage. She explains how frequently the cases of corneal damage come up and how the government is working towards pushing cornea donation. (8:14)
Finally, we talk about the amount of money that Indians lost to cyber crime during the first quarter of this year. (18:23)
Written, produced and hosted by Niharika Nanda.
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 28th of October and here are the headlines
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated a Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) plant in Vadodara, dedicated to manufacturing the C-295 aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF). Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez joined Modi, marking the occasion after both leaders laid the foundation stone for the Final Assembly Line (FAL) plant in October 2022. This facility represents India’s first private sector assembly line for military aircraft. Modi emphasized that recent decisions have bolstered defense manufacturing in India, expressing confidence that the new Tata-Airbus facility will position India as a leading exporter of aircraft and fulfill rising civil aviation demands.
Opposition members of the joint parliamentary committee on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill staged a walkout during Monday's meeting, alleging that individuals with "no stake" in the bill were being invited for oral evidence. Among those who walked out were AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi, Congress member Mohammad Jawed, and Samajwadi Party member Mohibbullah Nadvi. They eventually rejoined after a brief absence. Tensions flared when the Delhi Waqf Board administrator submitted a report to the committee chair, which the opposition claimed was done without approval from the Delhi government.
Bengaluru police have filed charges against Malayalam film director Ranjith Balakrishnan for sexually assaulting a man. The case, originally registered in Kerala, was moved to Bengaluru after the complainant, a 31-year-old artist, stated the incident occurred in a hotel in the city. An FIR has been lodged at the BIAL police station under Section 377 (unnatural offences) of the Indian Penal Code and Section 66E (violation of privacy) of the Information Technology Act.
With Diwali approaching, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai urged Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena to take swift action against the sale and distribution of illegal firecrackers in the capital. Delhi recorded a concerning Air Quality Index (AQI) of 356, classified as ‘Very Poor.’ Despite a complete ban on firecrackers—including manufacturing, storage, sale, and use—vendors continue to sell them in markets, and online delivery remains prohibited. The Delhi Government implemented this ban on October 14, lasting until January 1, 2025.
Indian Olympic hopefuls may face reduced access to public funds as the government considers revising its Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS). Discussions are ongoing within the Mission Olympic Cell (MOC), a committee of former athletes, coaches, and officials, regarding new selection criteria that could be finalized in the coming weeks. Currently, around 300 athletes in core and developmental groups receive financial support through TOPS, but an MOC official indicated that this number could be cut in half if stricter selection rules are implemented.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express' Diplomatic Affairs Editor Shubhajit Roy explains the situation on the India and China border. He shares in depth details of the LAC Agreement and what it means for both the countries.
Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Harikishan Sharma about the Livestock census. India has begun its 21st livestock census and he shares its significance, how its conducted and how it helps the livestock farmers. (12:54)
Finally, we talk about ED's action on the scan around the Diljit Dosanjh and Coldplay concert tickets. (22:28)
Produced and hosted by Niharika Nanda.
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar -
As part of our ongoing collaboration with Central Square Foundation - we're excited to bring to you the fifth and the final part of this series where we will speak to educators and academicians who rely on the need for effective assessment techniques at key stages of a child’s learning journey. These assessments form the backbone of the various learning interventions and activities carried out by a teacher in the classroom.
Experts argue that evaluating the academic journey of a student at crucial transition points such as grades 3, 5, and 8 is key to mapping their learning journey. This facilitates early intervention, helps identify gaps in student’s learning and informs teachers to develop strategies to address these gaps, thereby ensuring students are adequately prepared to transition to higher grades.
In this episode, Niharika Nanda will be in conversation with Dr. Jayshree Oza, Senior Advisor, CSF and Sridhar Rajagopalan, Co-founder & Chief Learning Officer, Educational Initiatives.
Hosted and produced by Niharika Nanda
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar
First four episodes of our series with CSF:
Episode 1
Episode 2
Episode 3
Episode 4 -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Ichha Sharma.
Today is the 25th of October and here are this week’s headlines.
Indian airlines have been hit by a spate of bomb hoaxes since last Monday as at least 30 flights received bomb threats via social media, taking the total number of such threats to over 120 over the past eight days. Additionally, 13 Air India international flights flying from Delhi, Mumbai and Kochi received bomb threats via a tweet on Tuesday. Most of the bomb threats have come from anonymous and unverified social media accounts. In a bulk of the cases, the social media accounts that posted the threats were set up only recently, and were suspended by X after the threats. In some cases, the threats were issued for flights that had already been operated for the day or were not scheduled to operate.
A day after India said that it had reached an agreement with China on patrolling arrangements in the border areas, Beijing said on Tuesday that the two sides “have reached a solution” on “relevant matters” but did not give any details. The Global Times reported that in response to questions about the reported agreement between India and China on border patrols in disputed areas, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian “confirmed progress”. It further stated, “China and India have maintained close communication through diplomatic and military channels regarding border-related issues.
Amid the ongoing conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to resolving issues through diplomacy and dialogue. Speaking at a pleanary session of the 16th BRICS Summit, he stated, "We support dialogue and diplomacy, not war." PM Modi highlighted pressing global challenges, including wars, economic uncertainty, climate change, and terrorism, and emphasized that BRICS can contribute positively to global progress. He further added, quote "We must convey to the world that BRICS is not a divisive group, but one that serves the public interest," unquote.
Heavy rainfall affected parts of West Bengal and Odisha as the states prepared for the impending landfall of Cyclone Dana later on Thursday night. After assessing cyclone preparedness in Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi announced that evacuations would be completed within hours. Currently located over the east-central Bay of Bengal, it is expected to strengthen into a severe cyclonic storm and make landfall between Bhi-tar-kanika National Park and Dhamra Port. Odisha has already evacuated over a million people from vulnerable areas. The meteorological department predicts that Jagatsingh-pur, Kendra-para, Bhadrak, and Balasore districts will experience the worst effects, with wind speeds reaching 100-120 km/h.
On the global front, Khalistani violent extremism poses a significant challenge for Canada, according to Chandra Arya, a prominent MP of Indian origin. Speaking in the House of Commons, Arya emphasized the need for law enforcement to address the issue seriously. He noted that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police is actively investigating this extremism through a national task force. Arya highlighted that extremism and terrorism transcend national borders, urging agencies to prioritize this pressing concern.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express.
For our episodes with CSF, check out the following links:
Episode 1
Episode 2
Episode 3
Episode 4 -
First, The Indian Express’ Legal Editor, Apurva Vishwanath, talks about the Supreme Court upholding the constitutional validity of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act. She discusses the court's observations and the implications of the verdict for broader citizenship issues, including the powers of Parliament on the matter.
Next, The Indian Express’ Mihir Vasavda explains why India might win significantly fewer medals in the next edition of the Commonwealth Games, and what that could mean for the future of the Games (15:36).
Finally, The Indian Express’ Mallica Joshi tells us about a new trend in stubble burning data and the extent to which the practice impacts Delhi’s air quality (25:16).
Hosted, written and produced by Shashank Bhargava
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar
Listen to our five part series with the CSF:Part 1: https://indianexpress.com/audio/3-things/the-rss-bjp-rift-rise-in-indian-asylum-seekers-and-a-bid-to-muzzle-press/9550762/
Part 2: https://indianexpress.com/audio/3-things/role-of-edtech-in-ensuring-continued-at-home-learning/9579623/
Part 3: https://indianexpress.com/audio/3-things/unlocking-the-power-of-play-a-key-to-early-childhood-education/9604148/
Part 4: https://indianexpress.com/audio/3-things/the-evolving-space-for-ai-in-edtech-for-students-and-teachers/9627570/ -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 24th of October and here are the headlines.
After assessing cyclone preparedness in Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi announced that evacuations would be completed within hours. Heavy rainfall affected parts of West Bengal and Odisha as the states prepared for the impending landfall of Cyclone Dana later tonight. Currently located over the east-central Bay of Bengal, the storm is expected to strengthen into a severe cyclonic storm and make landfall between Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra Port. Odisha has already evacuated over a million people from vulnerable areas. The meteorological department predicts that Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Bhadrak, and Balasore districts will experience the worst effects, with wind speeds reaching 100-120 km/h.
A key meeting of the Public Accounts Committee was adjourned after SEBI chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch notified the panel just hours before the meeting that she couldn't attend due to a "personal exigency." PAC Chairman K C Venugopal stated that the committee postponed the meeting following SEBI's communication about Buch's absence. He also noted that Buch had previously requested an exception to appear before the PAC, which was denied.
The Supreme Court dismissed a contempt petition against officials from Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, which alleged unlawful demolitions in violation of prior court orders. The bench observed that the petition by the National Federation of Indian Women relied primarily on newspaper reports and lacked substantial evidence to support its claims. Without concrete proof, the court ruled that media reports alone were insufficient to warrant pursuing a contempt case, leading to the dismissal of the petition.
Khalistani violent extremism poses a significant challenge for Canada, according to Chandra Arya, a prominent MP of Indian origin. Speaking in the House of Commons, Arya emphasized the need for law enforcement to address the issue seriously. He noted that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police is actively investigating this extremism through a national task force. Arya highlighted that extremism and terrorism transcend national borders, urging agencies to prioritize this pressing concern.
Bushra Bibi, the wife of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, was released from Adiala Jail on Thursday after obtaining bail related to a case involving the illegal sale of state gifts. Her release comes after nearly nine months of imprisonment, having been arrested in January. Imran Khan remains incarcerated in the same facility, where he has been held since August of last year. Bibi's release marks a significant development amid the ongoing legal troubles faced by the couple.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express' Man Aman Singh Chhina recounts the tragic crash of an Indian Air Force aircraft which took place 56 years ago and its remains are still being recovered. He shares how the accident resulted in the deaths of all 98 passengers on board, including six crew members and 92 soldiers.
Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Dipanita Nath who shares details of the new border that is being created between Switzerland and Italy. The two nations are redrawing their border due to climate change.(13:46)
Finally, we talk about cyclone Dana that is about to make its landfall in Odisha. (21:55)
Produced and hosted by Niharika Nanda and Ichha Sharma
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar - Show more
