Episódios
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First, The Indian Express’ Divya A explains how US President Donald Trump’s executive order to end birthright citizenship for children of parents without legal status could impact the Indian community living in the US.
Next, The Indian Express’ Ajoy Sinha Karpuram explores the factors courts consider when imposing the death penalty (09:20).
Finally, The Indian Express’ Sujit Bisoyi examines the significance of the latest archaeological findings in Odisha’s Ratnagiri (18:35).
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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 22nd of January and here are the headlines.
At least 11 passengers were killed and 11 injured on Wednesday after they jumped off the Pushpak Express in panic following rumors of a fire onboard. The passengers were run over by the Karnataka Express traveling on an adjacent track in Jalgaon, Maharashtra. Around 30-35 people are suspected to have jumped. Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis expressed deep grief, paying tribute to the victims. Rescue operations were launched with ambulances and railway vans deployed at the scene.
Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan, who was discharged from the hospital after a stabbing attack, has increased his security by hiring actor Ronit Roy’s firm. Roy was seen accompanying Khan after his release from Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai. Khan was attacked last Thursday at his Bandra residence by a Bangladeshi national, who entered the property by scaling the complex wall while the guards slept. The police reconstructed the crime scene to reveal details of the attack.
Ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) released its manifesto with a focus on middle-class welfare. Party chief Arvind Kejriwal highlighted seven demands to be included in the Union Budget, urging transformative reforms in education, healthcare, and senior citizen welfare. Kejriwal emphasized the need to prioritize the middle class, proposing changes to taxation and policies that would improve quality of life for Delhi's working families and address their pressing concerns.
The Supreme Court issued a split verdict on a plea by former AAP councillor and Northeast Delhi riots accused Tahir Hussain, seeking interim bail to campaign for Delhi Assembly elections. Hussain, who is contesting as an AIMIM candidate, requested bail for election purposes. Justices Pankaj Mithal and Ahsanuddin Amanullah gave differing opinions; Justice Mithal rejected the plea, while Justice Amanullah favored granting bail, leaving the final decision uncertain.
US President Donald Trump, shortly after assuming office, signed an executive order pardoning all those convicted for involvement in the January 6 Capitol riots. Hundreds of rioters, many accused of violent crimes, were released from prison with charges dropped. Speaking at the White House, Trump condemned the conditions of imprisonment, calling them inhumane. While the pardons brought relief to the rioters, they did not receive monetary compensation for their time served.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by the Indian Express. -
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First, we talk to The Indian Express’ Sweety Kumari about the verdict that has been given by a court in Kolkata's Sealdah regarding the brutal rape and murder of a female junior doctor at the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
Next, The Indian Express' Diplomatic Affairs Shubhajit Roy shares details of the Trump administration 2.0, and talks specifically about the leaders whose appointment will impact the US India relations. (16:42)
Finally, we talk about Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan being discharged from Mumbai’s Lilavati Hospital following the knife attack at his Bandra residence. (24:50)
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 Floar Swain.
Today is the 21st of January and here are the headlines.
Saif Ali Khan was discharged from Mumbai’s Lilavati Hospital after being attacked at his Bandra home on January 16. The actor, who sustained multiple stab wounds during an alleged robbery attempt, was photographed leaving the hospital and visiting the site of the attack. His wife, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and daughter Sara Ali Khan were seen at the hospital. Saif underwent two surgeries—neurosurgery and plastic surgery—after the intruder’s knife injured his thoracic spine, requiring surgery to remove knife fragments.
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi is confident that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) will win the upcoming elections. In an interview, she emphasized the party’s ability to remain stable despite fears after Arvind Kejriwal’s resignation. She also expressed optimism that the "obstructionist" tactics of Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena would diminish if AAP returns to power. Atishi believes the biggest achievement of her four-month tenure has been maintaining governance stability, despite the political challenges posed by the LG.
Chalapati, a 62-year-old Maoist leader, was killed in an encounter with security forces near the Chhattisgarh-Odisha border. Known for his rapid rise through the ranks, Chalapati orchestrated several high-profile attacks, including the 2018 killing of TDP MLA Kidari Sarveswara Rao. Hailing from Andhra Pradesh, he was believed to be the mastermind behind the deadly attack in Araku Valley, which also targeted former MLA Siveri Soma. His wife, Aruna, allegedly led the Maoist group involved in the murders.
On his first day as U.S. President, Donald Trump signed an executive order limiting immigration laws, including birthright citizenship. The new policy restricts automatic U.S. citizenship to children born on American soil, requiring at least one parent to be a U.S. citizen, green card holder, or military member. This change may impact millions of Indian-Americans, complicating their pursuit of permanent residency, as birthright citizenship was a crucial pathway to citizenship for many foreign-born children.
Elon Musk faced backlash for a hand gesture during a celebration of Donald Trump's inauguration, which some online users compared to a Nazi salute. However, a leading antisemitism tracker clarified that the gesture appeared to be one of enthusiasm. Musk dismissed the criticism, calling it a "tired" attack. During the event at Washington’s Capital One Arena, Musk energetically pumped his arms and shouted "Yesssss," drawing cheers from the crowd, while the hand gesture sparked controversy online.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by the Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express’ Brendan Dabhi tells us the state of a railway overbridge in Ahmedabad, which highlights the extent of mismanagement within the government.
Next, The Indian Express’ Raakhi Jagga provides the latest updates on the farmers’ protests, including farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal accepting medical assistance from the government and agreeing to a meeting with them (08:22).
Finally, we bring you a quick update on the RG Kar case verdict delivered by the Sealdah court (16:50).
Hosted and written by Shashank Bhargava
Produced 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 Floar Swain.
Today is the 20th of January and here are the headlines.
Sealdah Court Sentences Sanjay Roy to Life for Doctor's Murder
A Sealdah court sentenced Sanjay Roy to life imprisonment for raping and murdering a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College in August. Roy was convicted on Saturday, nearly six months after his arrest. The court imposed a Rs 50,000 fine and ordered the West Bengal government to pay Rs 1.7 million in compensation to the victim’s family. While the judge considered a possible death sentence, junior doctors at RG Kar expressed dissatisfaction with the verdict.
Supreme Court Rules on Custody of Bengaluru Techie's Son
The Supreme Court ruled that the minor son of Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash will remain in the custody of his estranged wife, Nikita Singhania, who faces charges of abetting his suicide. The court denied a request from Subhash’s mother, Anju Devi, to grant her custody, citing the child’s lack of familiarity with her. Justice Nagarathna remarked that Anju Devi was "virtually a stranger" to the child, solidifying the court’s decision in favor of Singhania.
Complaint Filed Against Kejriwal Over Alleged Election Malpractices
A complaint has been filed against AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal for allegedly distributing chairs and sweeping machines in his constituency. Election officials in New Delhi will forward the complaint to Delhi Police for further action. With the Delhi Assembly elections less than two weeks away, political campaigns have intensified. Congress leader Sachin Pilot criticized the ongoing battle between AAP’s city government and the BJP-led central government, claiming his party offers a better option for the people.
Trump's Second Inauguration Amid Freezing Temperatures
Crowds are gathering in Washington, DC, as Donald Trump prepares for his second presidential inauguration. Due to freezing temperatures, the ceremony has been moved indoors. Trump will deliver a speech following the oath and attend three inaugural balls, with approximately 200,000 supporters expected. A day before the inauguration, Trump rallied at Capitol One Arena, discussing topics like Middle East Ceasefire, TikTok, and his Day 1 Actions. He also mentioned plans to visit Los Angeles later this week.
Hyderabad Man Shot Dead During Food Delivery in Washington, DC
Koyyada Ravi Teja, 26, was shot dead outside a building in Washington, DC, while delivering a food order for his part-time job. Teja, who had recently completed his master’s in the U.S., was reportedly confronted by robbers as they tried to escape, and was shot point-blank. He suffered two bullet wounds and died on the spot. Teja had been looking forward to marriage and settling down, according to his family from Green Hills Colony, Hyderabad.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by the Indian Express. -
First, we talk to The Indian Express’ Mohamed Thaver about Saif Ali Khan being stabbed in his own house. He shares the details of the investigation, how the accused was identified, found and arrested and the current status of the case.
Next, The Indian Express' Diplomatic Affairs Editor Shubhajit Roy speaks to us about the ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel. He shares the various stages of the agreement, how it unfolded on Sunday and what is in store for the near future. (15:20)
Finally, we talk about a massive fire that broke out at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj that engulfed nearly 20 tents. (25:40)
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 Ichha Sharma.
Today is the 17th of January and here are this week’s headlines.
An estimated 40 crore people are expected to descend on the banks of the Ganga in Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh Mela, which commenced on Monday and will end on February 26. Besides this, 50 lakh pilgrims and sadhus plan to stay in camps for the entire duration of the event. The spiritual festival, held every 12 years, attracts millions of devotees who gather to bathe at the sacred Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers converge. It is the world’s biggest religious gathering, with deep links to Hindu mythology wherein participants seek forgiveness for their sins and aspire for Moksha, or spiritual liberation.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Z-Morh tunnel at Sonamarg, a strategic infrastructural project that is key to all-weather connectivity to Ladakh. The tunnel has been renamed as Sonamarg tunnel, after the famous tourist resort that will have round-the-year connectivity after this project. PM Modi inspected the 6.5-kilometre tunnel and interacted with workers who played a role in its construction. The soft-opening of the tunnel was carried out in February last year, but Assembly elections delayed the project’s official inauguration.
The Indian Space Research Organisation successfully docked its SpaDeX satellites on Thursday, after bringing them within 3 meters of each other. Following the docking, ISRO confirmed the satellites were functioning as a single unit. The space agency mentioned that undocking and power transfer checks would follow in the coming days. The docking process had previously been delayed twice, on 7th and 9th of January, due to technical issues. The satellites were launched on 30th December.
On the global front, Los Angeles firefighters faced high winds over the week as they battled two massive wildfires that have caused extensive destruction, killing at least 24 people. The fires, which have scorched an area the size of Washington D.C., were egzazzerbated by Santa Ana winds, with gusts reaching up to 75 mph. Over 8,500 firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the blazes and prevent further spread, as authorities issued a red flag warning for dangerous conditions in the region.
Meanwhile, a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israeli negotiators is set to end the 15-month Gaza conflict, with the deal taking effect on January 19. The agreement, brokered by US President Joe Biden, includes swapping hostages for imprisoned Palestinians in Israel. Biden, who played a pivotal role in the negotiations, views this achievement as a significant foreign policy legacy. While he is credited with ending the bloodiest phase of the Israel-Gaza conflict, he shares this accomplishment with his successor, Donald Trump.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by the Indian Express -
First, The Indian Express’ Pavneet Singh Chadha explains why the Goa tourism minister has been speaking out against social media influencers and what data reveals about the current state of tourism in the state.
Next, The Indian Express’ Anonna Dutt discusses a new method proposed by a Lancet commission for calculating and defining obesity (14:08).
Finally, The Indian Express’ Abhinaya Harigovind examines why several non-BJP-ruled states are opposing the draft UGC Regulations, 2025 (21:15).
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 Flora Swain.
Today is the 16th of January and here are the headlines.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully docked its SpaDeX satellites on Thursday, after bringing them within 3 meters of each other. Following the docking, ISRO confirmed the satellites were functioning as a single unit. The space agency mentioned that undocking and power transfer checks would follow in the coming days. The docking process had previously been delayed twice, on January 7 and 9, due to technical issues. The satellites were launched on December 30.
Saif Ali Khan, after undergoing surgery for stab wounds sustained in a home attack, is now in stable condition, according to doctors at Lilavati Hospital. The attack occurred early Thursday when an intruder stabbed Khan multiple times, including a serious wound near his spine. Police believe the attacker may be linked to a domestic worker who allowed him entry. The intruder was briefly locked in a room but managed to escape. Theft is suspected as the motive.
Nearly 50,000 international students failed to show up at Canadian colleges and universities in March-April 2024, with Indian students making up a significant portion. Of the 20,000 “no-shows,” 5.4% were from India, representing a sizeable portion of the country’s study permit holders. This data, compiled under the International Student Compliance Regime, highlights the non-compliance of 6.9% of international students, prompting educational institutions to report on enrolment twice a year to ensure adherence to study permits.
Hindenburg Research, the US-based short seller whose allegations caused significant financial turmoil, including for India's Adani Group, has announced its closure. The decision to disband the firm came shortly after US Congressman Lance Gooden wrote to Attorney General Merrick Garland, asking for clarification on the US Department of Justice's case against Adani. The letter highlighted concerns over the investigation's focus on a foreign company while Hindenburg's own role in global financial disruptions has been scrutinized.
A ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israeli negotiators is set to end the 15-month Gaza conflict, with the deal taking effect on January 19. The agreement, brokered by US President Joe Biden, includes swapping hostages for imprisoned Palestinians in Israel. Biden, who played a pivotal role in the negotiations, views this achievement as a significant foreign policy legacy. While he is credited with ending the bloodiest phase of the Israel-Gaza conflict, he shares this accomplishment with his successor, Donald Trump.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by the Indian Express. -
First, we talk to The Indian Express’ Nikhil Ghanekar about the relocation of 337 metric tonnes of hazardous waste from Bhopal’s Union Carbide factory that was generated during pesticide production between 1969 and 1984 and was dumped on the premises.
Next, The Indian Express' Anonna Dutt speaks to us about the second phase of the Genome India project, which was approved by the government in 2020 with the aim of creating a comprehensive catalogue of genetic variations found in the Indian population. (13:28)
Finally, we talk about Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioning three advanced Naval combatants INS Surat, INS Nilgiri and INS Vaghsheer. (22:41)
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 15th of January and here are today's headlines.
Rahul Gandhi's Remarks on RSS and BJP
On Wednesday, Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, accused the BJP and RSS of “capturing every single institution” in India. He criticized RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat for his controversial remarks on India’s Independence and called them treasonous. Gandhi argued that India is witnessing a clash between the visions of the Congress and RSS. He stated that Congress is now fighting both the BJP, RSS, and the Indian state itself, drawing sharp criticism from the BJP.
PM Modi Commissions New Naval Combatants
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday commissioned three advanced Naval combatants—INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, and INS Vaghsheer—at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. Calling the occasion a “giant leap forward” for the Navy’s empowerment, Modi celebrated India's growing defence self-reliance. Designed and built entirely in India, these combatants enhance India's naval capabilities. They have undergone rigorous trials and are now fully operational, marking a significant milestone in the country’s indigenous shipbuilding and defence production.
Meta Apologizes for Zuckerberg's Election Remarks
Meta India apologized on Wednesday for CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s claim about several governments, including India’s, losing power in post-COVID elections. Meta clarified that the statement was an "inadvertent error." In a message to Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Meta’s Shivnath Thukral explained that while the remark applied to many countries, it was incorrect regarding India. The apology came after BJP MP Nishikant Dubey announced that a Parliamentary panel would summon Meta to seek an apology for the controversial comments.
Committee Recommends Action in Khalistan Plot Case
A high-powered committee set up by the Union government has recommended legal action against an individual in connection with an alleged plot to kill Khalistan separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The committee's report follows inputs from US authorities regarding Vikash Yadav, a former Indian official, accused of directing a foiled assassination attempt in New York City. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed Yadav is no longer employed by the Indian government, and legal action is now being considered based on the findings.
South Korean President Arrested Amid Impeachment
On Wednesday, South Korean authorities arrested impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol from his residence, following a weeks-long standoff with law enforcement. Yoon, who had previously declared martial law in December, was impeached by the parliament. In a pre-recorded message, Yoon claimed that his arrest was illegitimate and the investigation illegal. He explained that he stopped resisting to avoid a violent confrontation. Yoon's controversial actions and impeachment have sparked political turmoil in the country.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by the Indian Express. -
First, The Indian Express’ Sukrita Baruah tells us how several workers got trapped inside a rat-hole mine in Assam last week, and the political slugfest it has led to.
Next, The Indian Express’ Diplomatic Affairs Editor Shubhajit Roy talks about why India has now chosen to increase its engagement with the Taliban and what was discussed in their latest bilateral meeting (16:50).
Finally, we discuss Prime Minister Narendra Modi launching Mission Mausam, which aims to upgrade the capabilities of India’s weather department in forecasting, modeling, and dissemination (26:02).
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 14th of January and here are today's headlines.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the 150th anniversary celebration of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), praised the country’s meteorological advancements for enhancing disaster management and limiting casualties. Modi emphasized how India’s accurate weather forecasts have benefited both the region and the world, contributing to the nation’s global image. He highlighted how these advancements have minimized economic losses, underscoring that scientific progress is a reflection of a country's overall development.
BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, who chairs the Communications and Information Technology Committee, announced plans to summon Meta over CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s statement regarding the electoral defeat of incumbent governments post-Covid. Zuckerberg’s comment about 2024 elections prompted Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to refute the claim. Vaishnaw emphasized India’s progress under PM Modi, highlighting free vaccines, food distribution, and India’s growth as the fastest-growing economy, contradicting the claim that Modi's third term victory was unlikely.
The Telangana government's crackdown on BRS Huzurabad MLA Padi Kaushik Reddy and other party leaders sparked controversy. The incident followed an altercation between Kaushik and Congress MLA Sanjay Kumar. Kaushik was arrested on charges of physical abuse and obstruction, later released on bail. Subsequently, senior BRS leaders, including K.T. Rama Rao and T. Harish Kumar, were placed under house arrest. Kaushik criticized Congress’s stance on constitutional rights, alleging consistent violations in Telangana's politics.
Delhi Police filed an FIR against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for using images of Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Shah in social media posts. The complaint, filed by BJP office secretary Brijesh Rai, accuses AAP of misusing these images in their posts on X. Investigations are ongoing, with elections in Delhi approaching on February 5. The FIR was filed at the North Avenue police station, where AAP’s posts are under scrutiny during the pre-election period.
Los Angeles firefighters faced high winds overnight as they battled two massive wildfires that have caused extensive destruction, killing at least 24 people. The fires, which have scorched an area the size of Washington D.C., were exacerbated by Santa Ana winds, with gusts reaching up to 75 mph. Over 8,500 firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the blazes and prevent further spread, as authorities issued a red flag warning for dangerous conditions in the region.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by the Indian Express. -
First, we talk to The Indian Express’ Saurabh Parashar about the Himachal scholarship scam. He shares how the scam was uncovered, what all has been revealed in CBI's investigation, and how an ED assistant director allegedly was involved in the case.
Next, The Indian Express' Anonna Dutt speaks to us about ISRO's SpaDex Mission which was launched at the end of 2024. She talks about the project, its importance and how it will massively impact future missions like Chandrayaan 4. (9:46)
Finally, we talk about the efforts being made by the government to control and reduce financial fraud and cyber-crimes and how the centre was able to decline six lakh fraudulent transactions and save Rs 1,800 crore. (20:26)
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 Niharika Nanda.
Today is the 13th of January and here are the headlines.
An estimated 40 crore people are expected to descend on the banks of the Ganga in Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh Mela, which commenced today and will end on February 26. Besides this, 50 lakh pilgrims and sadhus plan to stay in camps for the entire duration of the event. The spiritual festival, held every 12 years, attracts millions of devotees who gather to bathe at the sacred Triveni Sangam, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers converge. It is the world’s biggest religious gathering, with deep links to Hindu mythology wherein participants seek forgiveness for their sins and aspire for Moksha, or spiritual liberation.
Today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Z-Morh tunnel at Sonamarg, a strategic infrastructural project that is key to all-weather connectivity to Ladakh. The tunnel has been renamed Sonamarg tunnel, after the famous tourist resort that will have round-the-year connectivity thanks to this project. Modi inspected the 6.5-kilometre tunnel and interacted with workers who played a role in its construction. The soft-opening of the tunnel was carried out in February last year, but Assembly elections delayed the project’s official inauguration.
Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, while speaking on the disengagement efforts along the India-China border, said that the situation across the LAC is “sensitive but stable.” The army chief further said that patrolling and grazing in traditional areas has started in Depsang and Demchok in eastern Ladakh is taking place as per routine. General Dwivedi further stated quote, “Our deployment is balanced and robust; we are capable of handling any situation.” unquote. While talking about the future of LAC, the army chief said that they are currently focused on boosting border infrastructure and capability development.
The Indian Express exclusively reported that after unprecedented footfall in 2023 the Capital’s mohalla clinics saw a 28 per cent dip in 2024 to 1.39 crore appointments. An application filed under the Right to Information Act and official documents sourced by The Indian Express have revealed that the decline, health department officials, doctors and experts say, is primarily due to a drug shortage that the mohalla clinics faced last year. Mohalla clinics, the centrepiece of the Aam Aadmi Party government’s health infrastructure, were first set up in October 2015. Since then, the clinics, which are meant to be the first point of contact for patients with basic illnesses, have caught the attention of many from across the world.
The death toll in the devastating Los Angeles wildfires has risen to 24, the LA County Medical Examiner confirmed today. As forecasters predict a return of strong winds this week, authorities warn that the toll is likely to rise, as per news agency Reuters . Firefighters continue to scramble to make headway with search and rescue operations against the blazes that have destroyed thousands of homes. The Palisades fire has burned through 23,723 acres and is only 13 per cent contained, while the Eaton fire, near Pasadena, has scorched 14,117 acres and is 27 per cent contained. Authorities report that at least 24 people are still missing, and the scale of destruction across the region is vast, with more than 12,000 structures damaged.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by the Indian Express -
First, The Indian Express's Udit Misra explains why the 'First Advance Estimates' of India’s GDP for the current financial year are a cause for concern.
Next, The Indian Express's Amitabh Sinha discusses what 2024 breaching the 1.5-degree Celsius warming limit really means and what it reveals about our climate change preparedness (15:40).
Finally, we take a look at how Old Ahmedabad is witnessing the rise of ‘terrace tourism’ in anticipation of the upcoming Uttarayan (24:34).
Further reading: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/ahmedabad/as-kite-festival-draws-near-terrace-tourism-takes-flight-in-old-ahmedabad-9773845/ -
This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Ichha Sharma.
Today is the 10th of January and here are this week’s headlines.
After news of respiratory infections caused by human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China, at least seven cases of the virus were detected during routine surveillance by ICMR’s (Indian Council of Medical Research) network of laboratories. Clarifying the status of the virus, the Union Health Ministry issued a statement that read “HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV have been reported in various countries.” It added that there was no history of international travel in the two cases that were picked up during surveillance, meaning that these infections have no connection to the reported surge in respiratory infections in China.
The Chhattisgarh police Sunday arrested the alleged main accused Suresh Chandrakar in connection with the murder of journalist Mukesh Chandrakar in the state’s Bijapur district from Telangana. Last Saturday, the police arrested three people, including Suresh’s brothers Ritesh Chandrakar and Dinesh Chandrakar, and construction supervisor Mahendra Ramteke, in connection with the murder case, and the district administration also razed alleged “illegal property” belonging to the key accused. A freelancer, Mukesh worked with media houses such as NDTV and News 18, and hosted a YouTube channel, Bastar Junction, with 1.59 lakh subscribers.
Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national indicted by the U.S. Department of Justice for his alleged involvement in a murder-for-hire scheme targeting Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a Sikh separatist and American citizen, has stated that since his extradition from the Czech Republic to the US seven months ago, he has not been contacted by anyone from the Indian government. Gupta expressed to The Indian Express that despite his family's multiple requests for assistance, there has been no communication from Indian officials regarding his situation. Gupta, currently being held in the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York, was responding to a set of questions from The Indian Express. His replies were shared through an intermediary who has been in regular contact with him.
Although Ahmedabad is the primary focus of India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics, discussions are underway to expand the event's reach across the country. The government is considering hosting various sports in different cities to foster a nationwide movement. Proposed venues include hockey in Bhubaneswar, rowing in Bhopal, canoeing and kayaking in Pune, and cricket in Mumbai. India has been actively engaging with the International Olympic Committee's Future Hosts Commission since submitting a Letter of Intent last October. This proposal aims to showcase India's diverse sporting capabilities and will be presented to the IOC soon. An official noted that while the final structure of the plan is still being developed, there is a strong desire to involve multiple regions in this significant event, making it a collective national effort.
On the global front, a new wildfire has reportedly erupted in the Hollywood Hills scrubland, Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley announced, as five other blazes continued to devastate the county. The powerful Santa Ana winds, typically associated with high wildfire risks, fanned the flames and hindered firefighting operations. Raging wildfires have surrounded Los Angeles, killing at least five people, destroying hundreds of homes as more than 100,000 people were ordered to evacuate. Pacific Palisades, home to celebrities like Jamie Lee Curtis and Mark Hamill, saw widespread destruction, forcing evacuations. Homes and properties worth millions were consumed by the flames, with more than 1,000 structures destroyed
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by the Indian Express -
First, we talk to The Indian Express’ Maulshree Seth about the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 which is being held in Prayagraj. She talks about the arrangements being made and what makes this year special.
Next, The Indian Express' Diplomatic Affairs Editor Shubhajit Roy speaks to us about Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, his resignation from his post and what happens now. (14:42)
Finally, we talk about the stampede caused at Tirupati on the festival of Vaikunta Ekadasi. (25:46)
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 9th of January and here are the headlines.
PM Modi Inaugurates Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, Highlights India's Global Rise
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, emphasizing India’s increasing global stature over the past decade. He inaugurated and toured four exhibitions showcasing the efforts of both central and state ministries. PM Modi credited the government's economic initiatives for uplifting over 25 crore people from poverty. He also highlighted that India, now the world’s fifth-largest economy, is set to become the third-largest economy soon, reflecting the nation’s rapid growth and development.
Nikhil Gupta’s Plea for Help Amid U.S. Legal Trouble
Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national facing murder-for-hire charges in the U.S., has revealed that since his extradition from the Czech Republic, he has received no assistance from the Indian government. Gupta, held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, shared his frustration with The Indian Express, stating that despite his family’s multiple requests, no Indian official has reached out. Gupta’s case has sparked concerns about the lack of diplomatic support for citizens facing legal challenges abroad.
Meta’s Shift in Fact-Checking Program Raises Concerns in India
Meta’s recent decision to end its third-party fact-checking program in the U.S. is causing alarm among Indian fact-checking organizations. Many of these groups, which depend heavily on Meta’s funding, are now facing uncertainty about their future. A senior anonymous source described this move as a potential "existential threat" to their operations. Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg also announced significant content-related changes across Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, fueling worries about the impact on fact-checking efforts globally.
India’s 2036 Olympic Bid Could Involve Multiple Cities
India is considering expanding its bid for the 2036 Olympics beyond Ahmedabad to showcase its diverse sporting capabilities. Proposed venues include Bhubaneswar for hockey, Bhopal for rowing, Pune for canoeing and kayaking, and Mumbai for cricket. Discussions with the International Olympic Committee’s Future Hosts Commission are ongoing, following India’s Letter of Intent submitted last October. The aim is to create a nationwide movement, ensuring a collective effort from various regions to make the event a success.
Wildfires Rage in Los Angeles, Destroying Homes and Lives
A new wildfire has erupted in the Hollywood Hills as five other blazes continue to ravage Los Angeles County. Fueled by strong Santa Ana winds, the fires have claimed at least five lives and destroyed hundreds of homes. More than 100,000 people have been forced to evacuate as properties worth millions in areas like Pacific Palisades, home to celebrities, were consumed by flames. Over 1,000 structures have been destroyed, with firefighters battling the fast-spreading fires across the region.
This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by the Indian Express - Mostrar mais
