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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)
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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.
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First, we speak to The Indian Express' Harikishan Sharma about the status of the Jal Jeevan Mission, a plan to provide tap connections to rural households and its implications.
Next, The Indian Express' Pragynesh talks about the Delhi building collapse which claimed 11 lives. (13:50)
Lastly, we remember Pope Francis' papacy that began in March 2013 and came to an end on April 21. (24:51)
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Produced and written by Shashank Bhargava and Ichha Sharma
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This is is the catch up on 3things by The Indian express and I am Niharika Nanda.
Today is the 21st of April and here are today’s headlines
Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the policies that his government is working on are going to shape the future of the next 1,000 years. Addressing an event organised on the occasion of Civil Services Day, Modi said the holistic development of India means no village, no family and no citizen is left behind. He said quote “The policies we are working on today and the decisions we are making are going to shape the future of the next 1,000 years,” unquote.
Pope Francis passed away after prolonged illness in Rome today, the Vatican confirmed in a video statement. Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, the Vatican camerlengo announced, quote “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church,” unquote. Pope Francis was hospitalised on 14th February, following complications from bronchitis and was diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia four days later. He spent over a month in medical care before returning to his residence to continue his recovery.
Police in Odisha’s Jharsuguda district arrested two people allegedly involved in the killing of the father-son duo in neighbouring West Bengal’s Murshidabad district during the violence over the Waqf law. The two arrested persons are Bani Israel and Sefaul Haque, residents of Sulitala village under Samserganj police station area of Murshidabad district. On April 11, Hargobindo Das (72) and Chandan Das (40), were allegedly hacked to death in Samserganj block of Murshidabad district.
Today, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said that ISRO successfully performed the second docking of satellites as part of its Spadex missions. He said more experiments are planned in the next two weeks. The PSLV-C60 / Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX) mission was successfully launched on 30th December 2024. Thereafter the satellites were docked for the first time on 16th January, 16 and successfully undocked on 13th March.
China has warned that it would take “resolute and reciprocal” countermeasures against countries that strike trade deals with the United States at the expense of Chinese interests, in the latest escalation of tensions between the world’s two largest economies. The warning came from China’s Ministry of Commerce in response to reports that the Trump administration is pressuring nations seeking tariff relief from the US to reduce trade ties with China. the ministry said in a statement that China firmly opposes any party reaching a deal at the expense of China’s interests.
That's all for today. This was the CatchUp on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
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)
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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. -
First, The Indian Express' Varinder Bhatia discusses the Robert Vadra and DLF land case amid ED's recent summons.
Second, we talk to The Indian Express Nikhila Henry about Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi being at the center of another controversy. (11:25)
Lastly, we discuss the Assam panchayat elections' recent electoral conduct debate. (17:04)
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Produced and Written by Shashank Bhargava, Niharika Nanda and Ichha Sharma
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This is the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I am Ichha Sharma
Today is the 17th of April and here are today's headlines
The Supreme Court declined to stay changes to the Waqf law after the Centre assured no recruitment would occur in Waqf boards and councils, and that Waqf properties would not be denotified until the next hearing. A three-judge bench led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna took note of the Centre's statement. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta assured that a short response would be filed within seven days, and after a brief hearing, the bench set the next date for further proceedings.
The Supreme Court will examine if a Muslim individual can choose the Indian Succession Act, 1925, over Shariat law for inheritance matters. Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar tagged the petition by Naushad K K, a Kerala lawyer, with a case filed by ex-Muslim Safiya PM. Safiya seeks a declaration that Muslims who renounce their faith should be governed by the Indian Succession Act instead of Muslim personal law.
In response to Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir's claim that Kashmir is Pakistan's "jugular vein," India stated the only link is Pakistan’s illegal occupation of part of Kashmir, which must end. Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal rejected the remark, emphasizing that Kashmir is a union territory of India. Munir had reiterated Pakistan’s stance on Kashmir and defended the two-nation theory, asserting Pakistan's ongoing claim over the region.
Chinmay Deore, a 21-year-old computer science student at Wayne State University, faces deportation after US immigration authorities terminated his F-1 student visa. Deore and three other international students filed a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security, claiming their visa terminations were unlawful. Represented by the ACLU of Michigan, they allege they were not notified in advance about the revocation, which jeopardized their education, research, and career prospects, as detailed in their complaint.
Chinese leader Xi Jinping urged Cambodia to resist protectionism as he concluded a three-nation tour of Southeast Asia. With US tariffs impacting both countries’ economies, Cambodia, a major exporter to the US, faces high tariffs on its goods. Xi's comments, published in Cambodian media, stressed the importance of opposing “hegemonism” and “protectionism.” He had delivered similar messages earlier during his visits to Vietnam and Malaysia, emphasizing cooperation amidst global trade challenges. -
First, we talk to The Indian Express' Udit Misra who discusses the impact of the Trump administration on the US' global reputation amid the geopolitical tensions.
Next, The Indian Express' Deeptiman Twary talks about ED's recent chargesheet against Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and the leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. (14:54)
Lastly, we talk about the Supreme Court's observations on the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. (20:52)
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Produced and written by Shashank Bhargava and Ichha Sharma
Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Ichha Sharma.
Today is the 16th of April and here are this week’s headlines.
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, 2025, the mandatory retirement age for Supreme Court judges being 65 years.
NCERT defended its decision to name English textbooks after Indian classical ragas and instruments, saying the move honors the nation’s diverse musical traditions. The response came after Kerala Education Minister V Sivankutty criticized the Hindi-titled books as undermining India’s federal structure and linguistic diversity. NCERT emphasized that the titles were not about imposing Hindi but reflecting shared cultural heritage. Sivankutty had argued that changing decades-old English titles was “absolutely wrong” and went against the spirit of linguistic inclusion enshrined in the Constitution.
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.
Harvard Rejects Trump Administration’s ‘Academic Freedom Ultimatum’
Harvard University has rejected sweeping demands from the Trump administration, which threatened to withhold federal funds unless the institution dismantled diversity programs, reformed hiring practices, and cooperated with immigration enforcement. In an April 11 letter, the government accused Harvard of tolerating antisemitism and failing to meet conditions for federal support, demanding 10 specific reforms. The move echoed previous pressure on Columbia University. Harvard, however, stood firm, defending its academic autonomy and rejecting what it saw as political coercion. The standoff highlights growing tensions between elite universities and Trump’s education policies.
This was the CatchUp on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, we talk to The Indian Express' Sweety Kumari about the violent protests that broke out in West Bengal's Murshidabad. Last week, protests against the Waqf Amendment Act in Murshidabad got violent, leading to three deaths. Sweety talks about what happened, the families of the deceased, and the current situation in the area.
Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Anonna Dutt about a new blood test developed by the doctors at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) that may help monitor the effectiveness of cervical cancer treatment. (16:22)
And lastly, we talk about Omar Abdullah being hopeful that statehood will soon be restored for Jammu and Kashmir. (27:32)
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Produced and hosted by Niharika Nanda, Ichha Sharma and Shashank Bhargava
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This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Ichha Sharma.
Today is the 15th of April and here are this week’s headlines.
India’s retail inflation in March dropped to 3.34%, the lowest since August 2019, as food prices continued to ease, according to government data. This figure was below economists’ expectations of 3.60%, and down from February’s 3.61%. The sharp decline may provide room for the Reserve Bank of India to consider deeper interest rate cuts amid global concerns triggered by the U.S.-China trade war. Lower inflation could boost economic stability and consumer demand, especially at a time when global growth remains uncertain due to ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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 criticised the Allahabad High Court for its March 11 remarks suggesting a rape complainant “invited trouble” and was “responsible” for the incident. The apex court said judges must be cautious and sensitive in such cases. A bench led by Justices B R Gavai and A G Masih was hearing another matter when it addressed the High Court’s observations, also citing a March 17 order that downplayed acts like breast grabbing and pulling pyjama drawstrings as insufficient for rape charges. The SC’s response highlights concern over judicial insensitivity in sexual assault cases.
Former U.S. President Barack Obama praised Harvard University for defying the Trump administration after it froze $2.3 billion in federal funding. The White House demanded changes to admissions policies, including "merit-based" hiring, limited student activism, and a government-led audit of campus diversity. Harvard President Alan Garber rejected these requirements, and Obama called the university's stance a model for other institutions. The funding freeze follows tensions over campus freedoms and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) policies. Obama’s support emphasizes academic independence in the face of political pressure from government bodies.
In response to new U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods, China has reportedly instructed its airlines to stop buying Boeing jets, escalating trade tensions. Bloomberg sources say the ban also applies to U.S. aircraft parts, likely increasing operational costs for existing Boeing fleets in China. The move adds further strain to Boeing, whose shares fell 3% in premarket trading. China is one of Boeing’s largest markets, where European rival Airbus already has a stronger presence. The development reflects worsening ties as the U.S.-China trade war spreads into high-stakes sectors like aviation.
This was the CatchUp on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, we speak to The Indian Express' Pratip Acharya who sheds light on the exclusive investigation into the Dharavi redevelopment project.
Next, The Indian Express' Alind Chahuan discusses how a US based company has brought back a species of wolves back to life. (12:27)
Lastly, we talk about a wanted Indian fugitive diamond trader, Mehul Choksi's arrest in Belgium. (24:30)
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Produced and written by Shashank Bhargava and Ichha Sharma
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 14th of April and here are today's headlines.
Mehul Choksi Arrested in Belgium After India’s Extradition Request
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.
Accused Child Murderer Shot Dead in Karnataka Encounter
Ritesh Kumar, a 35-year-old migrant labourer from Patna, was killed in a police encounter in Hubballi, Karnataka, after being accused of murdering a five-year-old girl. Police suspect the child was also raped, though a post-mortem report is awaited. The incident occurred when Kumar allegedly tried to attack police while attempting to escape. He was shot in the leg and back, then declared dead at a local medical college. Kumar had been working in the city for 2–3 months. Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the child’s death.
Fresh Death Threat Sent to Salman Khan via WhatsApp
Bollywood actor Salman Khan received another death threat early Sunday through a message sent to the Mumbai police traffic department’s WhatsApp number. Sent around 6:30 a.m., the message threatened to enter Khan’s home and kill him, as well as plant a bomb in his vehicle. A senior officer confirmed that a case has been registered, and efforts are underway to trace the sender. This incident adds to a series of previous threats aimed at the actor, prompting heightened security around Khan and his residence.
China Races Exports Ahead of Harsh New US Tariffs
China’s exports surged in March, jumping 12.4% year-on-year, as factories rushed shipments before tough new U.S. tariffs kicked in on April 2. The growth marks a five-month high, up from 2.3% in January-February. However, imports fell by 4.3%. The US has raised tariffs on Chinese goods to 145% after Beijing retaliated, with no exemptions for electronics, including semiconductor chips. President Donald Trump’s administration has warned of a national security investigation targeting Chinese technology imports, increasing tension between the world’s two largest economies.
Teen Kills Parents in Plot to Assassinate Trump, Says FBI
A 17-year-old Wisconsin student, Nikita Casap, has been arrested for allegedly killing his parents to fund a plan to assassinate US President Donald Trump, according to FBI documents. Casap faces nine felony charges, including two counts of first-degree murder and hiding a corpse. His mother, Tatiana Casap, 35, and stepfather, Donald Mayer, 51, were found dead on February 28. Investigators found writings and messages in which Casap called for Trump's assassination and overthrowing the US government. He is currently in custody as federal investigations continue.
That's all for today. This was the CatchUp on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, we talk to The Indian Express' Deeptiman Tiwary about the extradition of Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key conspirator in the 2008 Mumbai terror attack. He arrived in Delhi last week after being extradited from the United States.
Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Brendan Dabhi about the Gujarat Police's GP-DRASTI program. He talks about the program and how the Gujarat Police will be actively using drones at the police station level and in situations like street violence. (10:24)
Lastly, we speak about an explosion in a fireworks factory in Andhra Pradesh that killed eight people and injured many. (17:54)
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Produced by Niharika Nanda, Ichha Sharma and Shashank Bhargava
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This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Ichha Sharma.
Today is the 11th of April and here are this week’s headlines.
The US officially enforced a sweeping 104% tariff on all Chinese imports starting Wednesday, escalating its trade confrontation with Beijing. This move follows President Trump’s ultimatum to China to withdraw its retaliatory 34% tariffs. China hit back sharply at Washington's escalating trade war rhetoric, saying it does not seek conflict but won’t tolerate bullying either. US further escalated the situation with its decision to raise tariffs on Chinese goods to 125% while pausing tariffs for other nations. Responding to this, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a press briefing, “This cause will not win popular support and will end in failure.” Lin emphasized that Beijing will defend its people's rights, signaling that retaliatory action may still be on the table. Meanwhile, Asian markets surged on news of the 90-day tariff pause for other countries, with Japan’s Nikkei 225 soaring 8%, South Korea’s Kospi rising over 5%, and Australia’s ASX 200 up 5% in early trading.
In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court declared Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi’s decision to reserve 10 re-passed Bills for Presidential consideration as illegal. The court held that the Governor showed scant respect for judicial precedent and unduly delayed action. Using Article 142, the bench declared that the 10 Bills are deemed to have received assent, overriding the governor’s withholding. This rare step sends a strong message about constitutional propriety and reinforces legislative autonomy amid growing tensions between elected governments and appointed constitutional heads.
The Reserve Bank of India has slashed the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6% in its latest monetary policy review. This signals lower interest rates on home, personal, and auto loans soon. The Monetary Policy Committee also shifted its stance from "neutral" to "accommodative," hinting at more rate cuts ahead. GDP growth for 2025–26 has been revised down to 6.5% from 6.7%, while retail inflation is projected at 4%. Lower rates aim to boost borrowing and spending amid slowing economic momentum.
Russia has formally invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend its Victory Day Parade on May 9, commemorating 80 years since the end of World War II. Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko confirmed that the invitation has been sent, and the visit is under discussion. The gesture comes after Moscow confirmed President Putin’s scheduled visit to India later this year. Russia has extended invitations to several “friendly nations,” reinforcing diplomatic ties amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. Modi’s participation would signify India’s balancing act in global power dynamics.
A deadly Israeli airstrike hit a residential building in northern Gaza’s Shijaiyah neighborhood on Wednesday, killing at least 23 people, including eight women and eight children, according to officials at Al-Ahly Hospital. The Gaza Health Ministry confirmed the toll and said rescue teams were still searching through rubble for survivors. Nearby buildings were also damaged, according to Gaza’s civil defense, which operates under the Hamas-run government. The strike is the latest in a wave of intensifying attacks, as the humanitarian crisis worsens in the besieged Palestinian enclave with no signs of a ceasefire in sight.
This was the CatchUp on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, we talk to The Indian Express' Legal Affairs Editor Apurva Vishwanath about the Supreme Court's ruling on Tamil Nadu governor RN Ravi withholding assent to 10 bills of the state assembly and the limits to the role of a Governor.
Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Anonna Dutt about a study conducted by the Institute of Cardiology at Madras Medical College which has proposed a model by way of which necessary medical care can be provided to a heart attack patient even in remote rural areas. (13:02)
Lastly, we speak about the Indians who were targeted by the Israeli spyware Pegasus in a 2019 WhatsApp hacking campaign. (22:36)
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This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.
Today is the 10th of April and here are today's headlines.
China Pushes Back Against U.S. Tariffs, Warns of Consequences
China hit back sharply at Washington's escalating trade war rhetoric, saying it does not seek conflict but won’t tolerate bullying either. Responding to the U.S. decision to raise tariffs on Chinese goods to 125% while pausing tariffs for other nations, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a press briefing, “This cause will not win popular support and will end in failure.” Lin emphasized that Beijing will defend its people's rights, signaling that retaliatory action may still be on the table. Meanwhile, Asian markets surged on news of the 90-day tariff pause for other countries, with Japan’s Nikkei 225 soaring 8%, South Korea’s Kospi rising over 5%, and Australia’s ASX 200 up 5% in early trading.
India Steers Clear of U.S. Tariff Clash, Eyes Fall Trade Pact
India responded cautiously as U.S. President Donald Trump announced a temporary suspension of his sweeping reciprocal tariffs, which went into effect Wednesday. Just hours before the announcement, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed that India is actively engaging with Washington to finalize a bilateral trade agreement by the fall. Speaking at the News18 Rising Bharat Summit, Jaishankar avoided directly commenting on Trump’s controversial statements about trade partners, saying only, “We’ve been constructive in our engagement, and so have they.” India appears to be walking a fine line—avoiding confrontation while quietly working to secure a stable trade relationship.
Tahawwur Rana Extradited from U.S., Special Prosecutor Appointed
India has taken a key step toward justice in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks case. The Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday night appointed a special public prosecutor for a three-year term to lead the prosecution of Tahawwur Rana, who is being extradited from the United States. Sources confirmed that a senior team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and intelligence services has taken custody of Rana, who is expected to arrive in Delhi by Thursday. Rana is accused of aiding the planning of the deadly 2008 attacks in Mumbai, which left more than 160 people dead.
Kashmir Cleric Says Police Blocked Religious Meet Over Waqf Act
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the prominent religious leader and head of the Muttahida Majlis Ulema (MMU), accused Jammu and Kashmir police of halting a planned meeting of clerics at his Srinagar residence. The gathering was meant to discuss concerns over the Waqf Act, which governs religious endowments in the region. Calling the police action unjust, Mirwaiz said religious leaders must be allowed to deliberate peacefully. He added that a joint resolution would be read in mosques across the Valley on Friday. The MMU also pledged support to the All India Muslim Personal Law Board’s legal challenge to the Act.
Israeli Airstrike Kills 23 in Gaza as Conflict Deepens
A deadly Israeli airstrike hit a residential building in northern Gaza’s Shijaiyah neighborhood on Wednesday, killing at least 23 people, including eight women and eight children, according to officials at Al-Ahly Hospital. The Gaza Health Ministry confirmed the toll and said rescue teams were still searching through rubble for survivors. Nearby buildings were also damaged, according to Gaza’s civil defense, which operates under the Hamas-run government. The strike is the latest in a wave of intensifying attacks, as the humanitarian crisis worsens in the besieged Palestinian enclave with no signs of a ceasefire in sight.
That's all for today. This was the CatchUp on 3 Things by The Indian Express. -
First, we talk to The Indian Express' Ravi Dutt Misra about the growing uncertainty over the reciprocal tariffs imposed by the United States and how they will impact the Indian exporters.
Next, The Indian Express' Ajoy Karpuram discusses how courts assess competing claims when senior citizens seek protection of their rights. (09:45)
Lastly, we speak to The Indian Express' Sukhbir Siwach about the Haryana government’s crackdown on local folk songs “promoting violence". (20:03)
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Produced and written by Shashank BHargava and Ichha Sharma
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 9th of April and here are today's headlines.
The Reserve Bank of India has slashed the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6% in its latest monetary policy review. This signals lower interest rates on home, personal, and auto loans soon. The Monetary Policy Committee also shifted its stance from "neutral" to "accommodative," hinting at more rate cuts ahead. GDP growth for 2025–26 has been revised down to 6.5% from 6.7%, while retail inflation is projected at 4%. Lower rates aim to boost borrowing and spending amid slowing economic momentum.
India has revoked a key transshipment facility that allowed Bangladesh to move export cargo through Indian territory to Bhutan, Nepal, and Myanmar. The decision, announced by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, follows Bangladesh's growing economic ties with China in Northeast India. A June 2020 order enabling transshipment via Indian ports and land customs stations has been officially rescinded. The move is expected to strain Dhaka’s regional trade logistics and could reflect India’s strategic pushback against China's expanding influence in South Asia.
India has cleared a high-value defense deal with France to purchase 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets for the Indian Navy. Estimated at over ₹63,000 crore, the deal includes 22 single-seat and 4 twin-seat variants, along with maintenance support, logistics, and training packages. This agreement strengthens naval aviation capabilities aboard aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. It also supports Make in India goals with offset obligations requiring domestic manufacturing components. The deal is expected to be formalized shortly, marking a major milestone in Indo-French strategic cooperation.
Russia has formally invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend its Victory Day Parade on May 9, commemorating 80 years since the end of World War II. Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko confirmed that the invitation has been sent, and the visit is under discussion. The gesture comes after Moscow confirmed President Putin’s scheduled visit to India later this year. Russia has extended invitations to several “friendly nations,” reinforcing diplomatic ties amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. Modi’s participation would signify India’s balancing act in global power dynamics.
The US has officially enforced a sweeping 104% tariff on all Chinese imports starting April 9, escalating its trade confrontation with Beijing. The tariff includes existing levies and new duties under Section 301 of the Trade Act. This move follows President Trump’s ultimatum to China to withdraw its retaliatory 34% tariffs. With Beijing refusing to back down, the White House has proceeded with the measure. The new tariff is expected to impact global trade flows, raise prices in the US, and further strain US-China economic relations.
That's all for today. This was the CatchUp on 3 Things by The Indian Express. - もっと表示する
