Geeta's World

Trump administration is under fire after a leaked Signal group chat revealed sensitive Yemen attack plans. The Atlantic's Editor-in-Chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, was inadvertently included in a confidential discussion detailing U.S. military strategies, including F-18 launches and drone strikes. Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer, have demanded a Justice Department probe, while Trump officials, including National Security Advisor Michael Walz and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, face intense scrutiny. Despite mounting pressure, the White House continues to downplay the security breach, dismissing the report as a hoax. In this episode of Geeta's World, we break down the leaked messages, the political fallout, and what this means for U.S. national security. Tune in! Produced by Prateek Lidhoo Sound mix by Suraj Singh

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's Oval Office showdown with Donald Trump has triggered a political crisis. As U.S. support wavers, Zelensky turns to Europe for aid—but will it be enough? With approval ratings dropping and opposition voices growing louder, Ukraine's leader faces his toughest challenge yet. On this episode of Geeta's World, we break down the big meeting and what it means for the world. In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Shashank Mattoo, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss. Watch! Produced by Prateek Lidhoo Sound mix by Rohan Bharti

The Ukraine war has now entered its fourth year, with European leaders intensifying peace efforts amid growing uncertainty over U.S. support. With diplomatic talks gaining momentum, could this be the turning point for peace? Or will the conflict continue with no end in sight? Watch for the latest developments as global powers navigate the future of Ukraine. In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Shashank Mattoo, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss! Produced by Prateek Lidhoo Sound Mix by Rohan Bharti

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France and the United States this week will be diplomatically important. It marks his first official trip since Donald Trump's return to office, highlighting the strategic importance of India-US relations. The agenda includes discussions on trade disputes, defence cooperation, and security in the Indo-Pacific, with a focus on a potential F-35 fighter jet deal. Talks will also cover India's position on Russia, Iran sanctions, and AI collaboration amid concerns over China's growing influence. With economic ties strengthening and geopolitical alignments shifting, this visit will set the course for the next phase of India-US partnership.Tune in!Produced by Garvit SrivastavaSound Mix by

Donald Trump built his image as tough on China—tariffs, tech bans, and military alliances to counter Beijing. But now, he's making moves that hint at a potential deal. From inviting Xi Jinping to his inauguration to softening trade threats, could Trump actually strike a geopolitical peace with China? And if he does, what would it mean for India?Tune in!Produced by Garvit SrivastavaSound Mix by Suraj Singh

On this episode of Geeta's World, Foreign Affairs Editor Geeta Mohan takes a look at what President Donald Trump's tenure means for India-U.S. relations. Geeta and Shashank discuss Trump's approach to the world and list the major challenges and opportunities for India vis-a-vis United States. Deportation of illegal Indian immigrants, a possible economic confrontation including trade and tariff changes, and Trump's threat to the globalized world order are the important challenges.Watch!Produced by Garvit SrivastavaSound Mix by Suraj Singh

2024 wasn't just a year of elections but a year of reckoning. Dubbed the "super year," it witnessed a global wave of anti-incumbency. From the UK to South Africa, Japan to France, ruling parties, whether left or right, were humbled—or defeated outright.What does this global rejection of incumbents signify? Do these trends signal a demand for genuine systemic change or simply a cyclical rejection of the status quo?Back home, following the grand success of the G20 summit in 2023, this year, cracks emerged in its "Neighbourhood First" policy as relations with Myanmar, Nepal, Maldives, Bangladesh, Pakistan, China, and Sri Lanka faltered. Experts suggest a strategic shift may be overdue.So, how should India's foreign diplomacy and global standing be assessed today? Has its global stature diminished?In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Nitin Rawat

On December 20, tragedy struck Magdeburg's Christmas market when a black SUV ploughed through holiday shoppers. Four women and a nine-year-old boy died, while 200 others were injured, including seven Indians. The suspect, Taleb Al-Abdulmohsen, a 50-year-old Saudi psychiatrist, has been arrested. He had been granted asylum in Germany in 2016 and was critical of the “Islamism of Europe.” He is also a staunch supporter of the far-right and anti-immigrant Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. And Nancy Faeser, Germany's interior minister, said after the attack that he was “obviously Islamophobic”. So, what do we know of this man, and was this attack political? And, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz faces backlash over alleged security lapses, as Saudi Arabia had flagged Al-Abdulmohsen's radical views as early as 2007 and had requested extradition. Germany refused, fearing for his safety. So, why did Germany ignore Saudi warnings? In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Nitin Rawat Chapters: 7:47 — The curious case of the accused 13:24 — Only AFD can save Germany? 19:06 — Berlin freezing asylum applications from Syrians 21:50 — Why did Germany ignore Saudi's alerts? 29:57 —  Rise of Islamist terror in Europe 39:21 — Proliferation of the far-right in Europe

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has been impeached by the National Assembly, making him the third president in the country to face suspension through such a vote. The impeachment was triggered by Yoon's decision to impose martial law. Although the martial law lasted only six hours, it plunged the nation into political chaos. But why did Yoon resort to such a drastic measure in the first place? The impeachment now moves to South Korea's Constitutional Court, which has 180 days to decide its outcome. However, formally removing Yoon from office will not be an easy task. Why is the path to his formal impeachment so challenging? In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Nitin Rawat

On December 8, rebel forces stormed Damascus and ousted President Bashar al-Assad, who had been ruling Syria since 2000. Reports suggest Assad has fled to Russia, where he has sought asylum. For over 53 years, the Assad family—first Hafez, then Bashar—has governed Syria. So how did the Assads, an Alawite Shia family, a minority in Syria, maintain control in a predominantly Sunni country? Now, the question is: who will govern Syria? One potential leader is HTS chief Abu Mohammed al-Jolani. He has pledged to protect minorities and women and says he has no intentions to impose strict Islamic law. However, his complex past suggests he could shift his political stance as needed. Will al-Jolani emerge as a reformist, or will he follow a path akin to Al-Qaeda? Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Nitin Rawat Chapters: (4:25) — Shia rule over Sunni majority for 53 years (12:57) — How rebel forces toppled the govt (17:05) — Will Al-Jolani govern Syria? (25:26) — Syria, a fragmented country (28:46) — Arab world's dynamics (30:29) — Russia and Iran abandoned Syria? (40:04) — Is the Assad dynasty long gone?

On November 25-26, Islamabad witnessed chaos as around 10,000 PTI supporters defied a government ban, leading to violent clashes. According to Reuters, nearly 1,000 protesters were arrested, five security personnel lost their lives, and 22 police vehicles were set ablaze. The protesters demanded the release of Imran Khan and other “political prisoners” and sought to repeal a constitutional amendment that boosts the government's power over judicial appointments in political cases. Despite Khan urging supporters to “fight to the end,” PTI called off the protests after three days, citing "government brutality." Was this a strategic retreat or symbolic messaging? Did it achieve the desired impact or fall short of Khan's vision? Meanwhile, Imran Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, has unexpectedly emerged in the spotlight. Some say her involvement in party affairs is deepening PTI's internal divisions and that Khan downplayed her role, claiming she merely conveyed his messages. But could there be more to the story? If Khan is displeased with her influence, what's driving his unease? Listen in! Also, listen to our episode on Hindus in Bangladesh here: https://podcasts.indiatoday.in...&-history/geetas-world/hindus-in-bangladesh-are-attacks-on-minorities-political-or-communal-or-both-geetas-world-ep-110-1123934-2024-11-20 Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Nitin Rawat   Chapters:   1:37 — Introduction   3:56 — Demands of PTI supporters   11:37 — Amry's brutal usage of live rounds   16:30 — What did the protest achieve?   23:54 — Bushra Bibi's role   29:35 — Sectarian rife

Tens of thousands of Hindus recently protested in Chattogram and across Bangladesh, demanding protection from escalating violence against them.A counter-narrative suggests these attacks are more political than communal. The Diplomat reported that of over 1,000 minority-owned properties attacked post-Hasina's ouster, over 500 belonged to Awami League members. So, is this violence targeting Hindus or political rivals? What are the ground realities for religious minorities in Bangladesh?Also, Awami League leader Anwaruzzaman Chowdhury has filed a complaint at the ICC against Muhammad Yunus and 61 others under Article 15 of the Rome Statute, alleging brutal genocide against Awami League members, Hindus, Christians, Buddhists, and the Bangladeshi police. What role does the ICC play in addressing such cases? How does it decide on such matters?Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Donald Trump has been elected as the 47th U.S. president, becoming the first convicted criminal to win the White House. At 78, he is also the oldest person ever elected to office. With his election, a new world order is to set in. Was this victory more a choice for Trump or a rejection of Kamala Harris and the Democrats? What factors led to her loss? In his speech, Trump vowed, “I will stop wars,” citing his prior term without new conflicts. What will his approach look like regarding the Russia-Ukraine war. Can he achieve what the Biden administration couldn't? In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss! Chapters: 2:21 - 5:21 — On-ground insights 5:21 - 11:13 — Democrats allowed the Republicans to thrive 11:13 - 13:18 — Biggest player was Joe Biden? 13:18 - 19:38 — How PM Modi is going to deal with Trump 19:38 - 20:54 — What's next for the US and the world 20:54 - 25:29 — Can Trump stop the wars 25:29 - 28:55 — Abortion rights Listen in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi  

Last week, after over four years of tensions on the border, India and China reached a significant agreement to resume military patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), in key areas, including Depsang and Demchok, in eastern Ladakh.Why now, though? What might be driving China's sudden openness to negotiate a truce? And does this development suggest that we are truly on the cusp of a détente or perhaps even a rapprochement, with China?In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

India-Canada relations have hit rock bottom, with both countries expelling diplomats. It all began in September 2023, when Canadian PM Justin Trudeau told his country's parliament that intelligence agencies were actively pursuing “credible allegations” tying agents of the Indian government to the Sikh separatist's death. India rejected them as “absurd and motivated”.A year later, Trudeau has yet to present concrete evidence despite intelligence reports, both Signal Intelligence and Human Intelligence, suggesting Indian links. So, why hasn't he made this intel public yet?Given Khalistan poses no real threat to India, was this a diplomatic failure? Could this public spat have been avoided through engagement? And does it cast doubts on India's aspirations as a global power?In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Israeli forces have launched a ground offensive into southern Lebanon, escalating their conflict with Hezbollah and Iranian-backed groups. This follows intense airstrikes, including attacks on Hezbollah's communication systems and the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in an airstrike on Beirut. So, why is Israel attacking Lebanon? What does this ground invasion mean for the country and the region? What is Israel's ultimate goal? Iran, with its network of militias like Hezbollah, the Houthis, and groups in Syria and Iraq, could escalate attacks on Israel and US bases. But, Iran faces economic struggles and can't afford to lose Hezbollah, its key ally in the region. So, where does Iran stand in all of this? Should Iran get involved? In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss! Listen in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Anura Kumara Dissanayake, or AKD as he's popularly known, has just been sworn in as Sri Lanka's new president. He represents the Marxist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) and its broader front, the National People's Power (NPP).Dissanayake defeated incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe and opposition leader Sajith Premadasa. Dissanayake secured 42.31% of the vote, Premadasa trailed 34%, and Wickremesinghe placed a distant third with just 17%. Namal Rajapaksa, son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, garnered less than 3% of the vote.This election marked the first time since the creation of the executive presidency in 1977 that the race went to a second round, with preferential votes deciding the outcome after no candidate secured the required 50%.After his victory, Dissanayake said, “We can turn this country around, build a stable government... and move forward. For me, this is not a position but a responsibility."Many observers believe that Sri Lankans “voted in anger because they were really fed up of the ‘corrupt Rajapaksha brothers'. So, was this a vote against the establishment, fueled by public frustration, or was this a mandate for Dissanayake?Many think Dissanayake would be a proxy for the staunch Marxist leaders within his National People's Power alliance. So, can he distance himself from the party's old guard, or will his party's historical baggage influence his policy decisions?In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Nitin Rawat

Canada's decision to end the 18-month extension of postgraduate work permits (PGWPs) has left thousands of international students, many from India, facing uncertainty. Reports suggest that 130,000 are at risk of deportation by 2025.What's Trudeau's rationale? Why take a step that will anger many Indian-origin Canadians, particularly the Sikh community, who have strongly supported him?As inflation and housing pressures push liberal voters toward the Conservatives, is this shift a sign that liberal ideology is waning in Canada?In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Nitin Rawat

Since Sheikh Hasina's ouster and her taking refuge in India, anti-India sentiment has been peaking in Bangladesh.Recently BNP leader Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir demanded Hasina's extradition, warning that her continued presence in India could severely damage Indo-Bangla relations. With Mohammed Yunus as interim leader and a BNP government likely on the horizon, the call for Hasina's return is intensifying. So, will India bow to this demand or hold its ground?And can Bangladesh, under BNP leadership, if elected to power, afford a strained relationship with its neighbour? Will historical ties hold firm, or will this be a new crisis for India-Bangladesh relations?In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

The Taliban's new 35-article morality law restricts women from speaking, singing, or even making eye contact in public, requiring them to cover their bodies completely. This is part of a broader push to enforce their strict interpretation of Islamic principles.Western countries have linked sanctions relief to restoring women's rights, but the Taliban have only increased restrictions, dismissing this as an internal matter. Despite sanctions, reports suggest the Taliban are already getting foreign aid.If sanctions aren't working, what should the international community do to pressure the Taliban to uphold human rights?Has India, as a neighbouring country and a leading voice of the global south, done enough to voice concerns?In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

In the lead-up to the US election, the Democrats are hosting their National Convention—a high-energy event often seen as a show of strength, where supporters rally behind their nominee and make its formal announcement. The convention kicked off yesterday in Chicago and is expected to be a significant moment in Kamala Harris' campaign.But amidst the political fervour, Kamala Harris faces pressure from uncommitted delegates demanding a more progressive stance on Israel, including a Gaza ceasefire. Will this anti-war movement overshadow Harris's cause?Given that both Democrats and Republicans seem to be adopting similar economic policies, how different will Kamala Harris's agenda at the Democratic Convention really be from Trump's? Have Republicans already set the narrative on the economy, leaving Harris with little room to manoeuvre?In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Bangladesh is facing unrest, with ensuring peace being the foremost challenge. While it was expected that violence would cease after Sheikh Hasina's resignation, the situation has worsened, particularly with escalating atrocities against Bangladeshi Hindus. Why is the caretaker government under Mohammed Yunus letting people run amok and not ensuring communal harmony? Before her exit, Sheikh Hasina claimed that "conspiracies" were being plotted to topple her government. She alleged that the US intended to acquire St Martin's Island to build a military base in exchange for the BNP's electoral victory. Is it true that this island influenced how the US sought to steer Bangladesh's political landscape? Given that both the US and China believe the BNP would align more closely with them, which superpower is getting its calculations wrong? In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss! Listen in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

After weeks of massive turmoil in Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina has stepped down as its prime minister today following a 45-minute ultimatum from the army. With that, her 15-year-long rule has come to an end. She fled to India amid student protests against the Awami League's quota system for freedom fighters. It is not known what her final destination is.Dramatic visuals of protestors bringing down statues of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country's first President and Sheikh Hasina's father, have flooded social media, bringing forth different perspectives about the country's history.What happens now? Bangladesh Army Chief Waker Uz Zaman has addressed the nation, stating that the Army would form an interim government to restore peace. But how will the Army ensure peace during this critical period? And why is it letting protestors run amok and vandalise statues of freedom fighters?Meanwhile, West Bengal BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari has remarked that over one crore Bangladeshi Hindus might seek refuge in India. Other members of the ruling BJP are also echoing this rhetoric. But is there any truth to the claim that with Sheikh Hasina gone, Bangladesh will fall to Islamic fundamentalists?In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Days after visiting Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, PM Modi is expected to visit Kyiv around Ukrainian National Day on August 24. This would be his first visit to Ukraine since the Russia-Ukraine war began in 2022 and the first-ever by an Indian PM since Ukraine's independence following the breakup of the Soviet Union.Considering Modi's Russia visit irked Ukraine and the West, is this visit just to placate the West and strike an equilibrium?Observers say finding a middle ground could serve the global good, but what more can India offer now, two years into the war, after failed peace attempts?In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

With Joe Biden stepping down as US president and endorsing Kamala Harris as the presidential candidate, the race to the White House is becoming more intense and dramatic by the day. Though there was talk of holding an open convention to select a new nominee, it seems unlikely now that Harris has secured enough Democratic delegates to become the party's nominee. But how will Kamala Harris differ from Biden? And does Kamala Harris have a chance to beat Donald Trump? In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss! Listen in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

On July 13, former U.S. President and Republican frontrunner Donald Trump experienced a near-death incident when he was shot in the ear during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. The FBI identified the shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, labelling it a potential act of domestic terrorism. How did such a security lapse occur under the US Secret Service's watch? An eyewitness claimed he reported a suspicious man with a rifle on the roof, but authorities ignored him. What does this reveal about the security measures in place? With the US elections just months away, could this incident give Trump a decisive edge over Biden? What new challenges do Democrats face now? In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss! Listen in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

On June 23, gunmen attacked two churches, a synagogue, and a police post in Russia's Dagestan region, killing at least 19 police officers, National Guard members, civilians, and an Orthodox priest and injuring 12 others. The attacks occurred in Derbent and Makhachkala.No group has claimed responsibility, but considering past attacks by Islamic militants in the region, can these attacks be linked to groups like the Islamic State?And despite evidence of homegrown terrorism in Russia, President Putin insists that Russia cannot be a target of Islamic fundamentalist attacks. Instead, it pins the blame on Ukraine. What explains this reluctance to acknowledge the presence of Islamic fundamentalists and the underlying resentment among Muslim conservatives in Russia?In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Switzerland hosted a two-day high-level Peace Summit for Ukraine last weekend, but Russia did not participate, dismissing it as a “waste of time.”So, can this peace summit meaningfully contribute to ending the war and ensuring regional peace without involving both parties in dialogue, given their differing views on 'peace'?Interestingly, many countries that once proposed peace plans—such as Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Indonesia, Brazil (which remained an observer), and China (which declined to participate)—dissociated from the summit's outcome document.Why did these countries, once advocates for peace plans, refuse to participate?In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Narendra Modi has secured a third term as India's Prime Minister. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance won 293 seats, although, unlike the 2019 elections, the BJP itself did not achieve a majority. As Modi 3.0 begins, PM Modi has promised a “new chapter of big decisions” for India. But, considering the BJP is not a party with a brute majority anymore and relies on an NDA coalition instead, the scope of these decisions might be limited. Will major foreign policy decisions be hindered?  And will Modi 3.0 tweak India's foreign policy at a time when foreign media is reporting about the state of Indian democracy and calling press freedom, political freedom and human rights into question? In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss! Listen in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Mexico has elected Claudia Sheinbaum, a climate scientist and former mayor of Mexico City, as its new president, marking a significant step for gender parity. Concerns exist that Sheinbaum is a handpicked successor of her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, better known as AMLO, and may be captive to his agenda. Critics argue she lacks charisma, and despite not being on the ballot, AMLO's influence loomed large during the election. So, have Mexicans placed more faith in the party than in Claudia? Is the mandate more for the left party? Will Sheinbaum's governance differ? Although intellectually a nationalist, her campaign emphasised policy continuity and protecting AMLO's legacy over her own proposals. In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss! Listen in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

On May 19, Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and several other officials were killed in a helicopter crash in East Azerbaijan province. Raisi's death has sparked numerous speculations and conspiracy theories. Was it an accident? Was there foul play? Is Israel involved, or is it due to Iran's struggle with US sanctions that prevents it from obtaining necessary improved aircraft parts? What do we know so far? After years of negotiations, India and Iran signed a ten-year contract for the Iranian Chabahar Port. India and Iran have shared historical and cultural ties, and bilateral trade between the two nations improved after Raisi became President in 2021. Although the supreme leader made significant decisions, Raisi's presidency saw enhanced relations between the two. So, will this work in a continuum with a new president? In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss! Listen in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

After a two-year gap, China has regained its position as India's largest trading partner, surpassing the United States. According to the latest GTRI report, from FY19 to FY24, while trade with the US grew, increasing India's trade surplus, India's exports to China slightly decreased, and Chinese exports to India surged by almost 45%.Does this mean the trade balance heavily favours China, with India facing a trade deficit of over $85 billion?This trade growth persists despite India's trade and investment restrictions on China since the 2020 Galwan clashes. Indian politicians often discuss reducing reliance on Chinese imports and boosting domestic manufacturing. So, why can't India stop trading with China?In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

In Sudan, amidst enduring civil conflict, desperation has driven people to consume dirt for sustenance as the nation teeters on the brink of famine.Why does Sudan's civil strife persist despite over a year passing since its outbreak? Why has resolution remained elusive?Despite international efforts, including ceasefire agreements and sanctions, humanitarian assistance has reached only 16 per cent of people who need it. Has the international community's response adequately addressed the power struggle at play?In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

The anti-Israel protests, originating at Columbia University in the US, are gaining momentum globally on university campuses. The police have intervened violently, with videos emerging from different states showing hundreds of students – and even faculty members – being forcefully arrested.Despite the harsh response, the students' resolve remains unshaken. They continue to pitch tents and stand their ground. So, why are students persisting, and what are their demands?Large student movements have influenced public opinion and policy throughout American history, like the Anti-Apartheid Movement in the 1980s. So, can these protests spark a significant foreign policy shift in the country?In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Pro-China Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu's People's National Congress party has secured a two-thirds majority in the Majlis. With this absolute parliamentary dominance, what previously obstructed policies can the current government push through?But is Muizzu's win really a vote against India, given his vocal support for it, or are there other factors that played out?And why did the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) lose so badly? How did Maldivians lose trust in the MDP?In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

After the Katchatheevu Island controversy, now Gwadar Port, in Pakistan's Balochistan province, has become a focal point in India's upcoming general elections. The BJP has accused the then PM Jawaharlal nehru of rejecting the Gwadar port , which the Sultan of Oman had apparently offered to India in 1956.If it's true, what would have happened if Nehru hadn't rejected the offer? What could have changed?Despite security challenges and unrest in Balochistan, China remains invested in Pakistan's BRI. What's the incentive for China to continue in Pakistan?Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Following the "India Out" campaign in the Maldives, a similar movement has emerged in Bangladesh, spearheaded by the Bangladeshi diaspora and opposition factions. These factions are advocating for the boycott of Indian products. Despite originating after the January elections, why did this anti-India movement gain traction only recently? Was it because the Awami League government initially didn't appear overly concerned about this campaign? Given that the BNP is not in power in Bangladesh, what are the prospects for the sustainability of this campaign? And should India be wary of this and make attempts to salvage the situation? Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World! Listen in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi  

Following the "India Out" campaign in the Maldives, a similar movement has emerged in Bangladesh, spearheaded by the Bangladeshi diaspora and opposition factions. These factions are advocating for the boycott of Indian products.Despite originating after the January elections, why did this anti-India movement gain traction only recently? Was it because the Awami League government initially didn't appear overly concerned about this campaign?Given that the BNP is not in power in Bangladesh, what are the prospects for the sustainability of this campaign? And should India be wary of this and make attempts to salvage the situation?Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

On March 22, Moscow witnessed the deadliest terror attack in decades when four gunmen stormed the Crocus City Hall and began firing on a crowd attending a music concert. They started shooting and attacking people with knives before blazing the place. Russian authorities said 137 people were killed and more than 100 injured.Hours after the attack, the Islamic State–Khorasan Province (IS–KP) claimed responsibility. But why would ISKP target Russia?And some Russian commentators find it odd that ISIS terrorists could penetrate Moscow, given the strict surveillance by intelligence agencies. They question how the attackers could terrorise a crowd for an hour and a half and then escape quickly to the heavily militarised border with Ukraine, suggesting theories that the attack might have been orchestrated within Russia. Can this be deduced?Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Sweden has officially become the 32nd member of NATO, completing its accession process in Washington. It took place two years after Sweden had applied to join the military alliance following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.But the two Nordic states, Finland and Sweden have long maintained military neutrality. So, why did Sweden officially move away from its non-alignment and neutrality stance to NATO now?And Sweden had applied in May 2022. Why did Erdogan take so long, around two years, to finally accept Sweden's NATO's bid?Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Iranian conservatives have secured a majority in recent elections, but many incumbents were disqualified, leaving only loyalist candidates vetted by the Guardian Council to participate. With predictable outcomes and key figures like former President Rouhani disqualified from standing again for the Assembly of Experts, are these elections then a farce? Ali Khamenei's second son, Mojtaba Khamenei, is expected to succeed as Iran's supreme leader. Several elite reformists believe he could be the next radical moderniser. Will he? Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World! Listen in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Donald Trump inches closer to securing the Republican presidential nomination after a decisive win over Nikki Haley in South Carolina.But why is it that the Republicans, especially those within the party who opposed his brand of divisive politics, were never able to find a single rival? Why is it that the Republicans couldn't move on from Trump?Many younger Democrat voters are angry at Biden, and some Arab and Muslim Americans say they won't vote for Biden in 2024 because of his stance on the Israel-Hamas war. So, could this influence Biden's presidential bid?Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

The Pakistan election has come as quite a shocker for many, with many stating this is a wake-up call for the establishment. But is the military really out of the game?And who exactly will make the government? We are looking at a coalition between the PML-N and PPP, but both parties are divided as to who will become the prime minister: Nawaz Sharif or Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. Who has a more substantial hand?Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Pakistan's upcoming February 8 elections are marred by manipulation concerns, with experts dubbing them a sham. The military seeks to sideline Imran Khan's PTI party, favouring former PM Nawaz Sharif for the win. So, is this the same playbook by the army, and the outcome won't make a difference?And there are multiple crises that Pakistan is reeling under, including economic instability and security tensions with neighbouring countries. So, will voters consider these pressing issues at the polls?Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

The Rishi Sunak government has signed a new treaty with Rwanda and proposed new laws declaring that Rwanda is a safe country. The bill is currently being discussed in the house of lords, after the Supreme Court had earlier deemed the Rwanda plan illegal.Ironically, at the time when the UK government planned to send illegal immigrants to Rwanda, it granted refugee status to four Rwandans in the UK due to persecution fears. Won't this revelation impact the migration bill's chances of becoming a reality?And what happens if the migration bill becomes a reality?Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Last week witnessed an unexpected development as Iran and Pakistan engaged in cross-border airstrikes, each claiming to target Baluch insurgent hideouts. This could have easily been an incident where both Iran and Pakistan could have partnered together to eliminate Baloch separatists. Instead, they chose to launch missiles at each other. What does this tell us? Experts find these attacks seemingly feckless, given that on the same day as Iran attacked Pak, joint naval operations were underway, and Iran's foreign minister met with Pakistan's caretaker prime minister at the World Economic Forum. Is there a possibility that these strikes were mere optics, and that there's something bigger at play between Iran and Pakistan? Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World! Listen in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Nitin Rawat

Diplomatic tensions between India and Maldives ignited on January 4 when PM Modi shared tourism-promoting images from his Lakshadweep islands' visit. This triggered a social media war involving Maldivian officials and Indian users. But, there was no direct mention of Maldives by PM Modi or other Indian officials. So, what sparked this anger?And is boycotting Maldives really a response to this diplomatic tension?Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

In 2023, the world faced significant global risks and uncertainties. In South Asia, elections, political unrest, and economic uncertainties marked the year. This year too, the region mostly looks at elections and campaigning in countries such as Bangladesh, Pakistan and India. Considering the potential for a change in power, do we see the region's foreign policy and power dynamics changing? Meanwhile, as Russia's war in Ukraine enters its third year, Europe grapples with economic challenges and heightened inflation. The war has exposed Europe's vulnerable economic spots – mainly its energy dependency. So, can we say that the once-dominant financial giant that was Europe, is losing ground, and is this shift likely to endure? Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World! Listen in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

In an effort to mediate in the Gaza war, Egypt has put forward a peace proposal to Israel, Hamas, the United States, and the European governments. The proposal includes a ceasefire, a phased hostage release and the creation of a Palestinian government of experts who would administer the Gaza Strip and occupied West Bank. But what's the likeability of the proposal being accepted? Because Netanyahu remains stern, he wants to eradicate Hamas, and this peace accord will mean he will have to pull back from his mission? And the other crucial point is the creation of a Palestinian government of experts who would administer the Gaza Strip and occupied West Bank. But, the question being, who will this technocratic government be? Who will decide and make the call? Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World! Listen in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Bangladesh gears up for its 12th general elections on January 7, but there are concerns of the elections being lopsided.Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is expected to be seeking a record fourth-term in office, but major opposition parties such as the BNP are opting to boycott, with discussions about reinstating a caretaker government for elections.But many critics feel that the return to the caretaker government will be counterproductive in protecting democratic institutions in Bangladesh and might hinder the progress of the country. So will going back to a caretaker government actually help the opposition?And if Sheikh Hasina secures a fourth term, what changes can be expected in her foreign policy, particularly in engagements with China and the US?Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

The U.S. Department of Justice has indicted a senior Indian government intelligence official for allegedly plotting the assassination of U.S. citizen Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil.But the question is: To what extent will the U.S. pursue this case, given their decision not to disclose the identity of the Indian official? Does it mean they don't want to risk its relations with India?And, considering that Khalistan is largely perceived as a romanticized sentiment in India, with minimal real threats in the internal landscape, why would India jeopardise crucial geopolitical relationships by allegedly plotting such assassinations on international soil?Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!Listen in!Produced by Anna PriyadarshiniSound Mix by Nitin Rawat