Podcasts about Jammu

Dr Abhinav Pandya, a Cornell University graduate in public affairs and a bachelor's from St. Stephen's College, Delhi, is a founder and CEO of Usanas Foundation, an India-based foreign policy and security think tank. He has authored books named 'Radicalization in India: An Exploration (2019)' and 'Terror Financing in Kashmir (2023)'.He had previously advised the former governor of Jammu and Kashmir on security issues during the critical times when Kashmir's special status, Article 370, was revoked.He has written extensively for several national and international newspapers, and worked with the International Labour Organization, the United Nations.His latest book is "Inside the terrifying world of Jaish-e-Mohammad'. Order your copy here: https://www.amazon.in/Inside-Terrifying-World-Jaish-Mohammed/dp/9365694809

 For more than a hundred years, engineers fought to find ways to cut through the Pir Panjal mountains, to link Kashmir's agricultural markets with industrial powerhouses in India's plains. The easiest routes were through Lahore, but even before Independence, leaders had begun to dream of road and rail routes over Banihal to Jammu. 

VOV1 - Cả nước có hơn 10 triệu tài khoản chứng khoán, vượt mục tiêu Chính phủ đề ra.- Thủ tướng Phạm Minh Chính tiếp đại diện một số doanh nghiệp hàng đầu của Estonia- Phó Thủ tướng Thường trực Chính phủ Nguyễn Hòa Bình, chủ trì buổi làm việc với các tỉnh, thành phố: Bình Định, Quảng Ngãi, Đà Nẵng, Phú Yên nhằm tháo gỡ các khó khăn, vướng mắc của 4 dự án cao tốc đi qua địa bàn.- Mô hình "Thắp sáng đường tuần tra biên giới" của tuổi trẻ Lạng Sơn mang lại những hiệu quả thiết thực.- Xung đột biên giới Thái Lan – Campuchia tiếp tục căng thẳng. Thái Lan ra tuyên bố 4 điểm sau khi Campuchia gia tăng hiện diện quân sự tại biên giới.- Ấn Độ khánh thành cầu đường sắt cao nhất thế giới tại vùng lãnh thổ liên bang Jammu và Kashmir.

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Niharika Nanda.Today is the 6th of June and here are the headlines.PM Modi Flags Off Vande Bharat Trains, Inaugurates Chenab BridgePrime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday flagged off two Vande Bharat trains between Katra and Srinagar and inaugurated two key rail bridges—India's first cable-stayed bridge over Anji Khad and the world's highest rail bridge over the Chenab River. At a rally in Katra, he asserted that any obstruction to Jammu and Kashmir's development would face him first. Modi launched several infrastructure projects worth over ₹46,000 crore in the Union Territory, reaffirming his government's commitment to accelerating growth and connectivity in the region.Karnataka CM's Aide Removed After Stadium Stampede Kills 11Following the tragic stampede near Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium that killed 11 and injured 56, MLC K Govindaraj, political secretary to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has been removed. Police Commissioner B Dayananda and four other top officers were suspended for crowd control lapses. The state government has ordered a judicial inquiry and announced that RCB officials involved will be arrested. The incident, linked to mismanagement during a free ticket distribution event, has sparked outrage and demands for accountability at the highest levels of administration.Starlink Gets Key Licence to Launch Services in IndiaElon Musk's satellite internet company Starlink has cleared a crucial regulatory hurdle after receiving a licence from India's telecom ministry, sources told Reuters. The move brings Starlink a step closer to rolling out commercial operations across India. It becomes the third satellite broadband provider to get approval from the Department of Telecommunications, after OneWeb and Reliance Jio. The licence marks a significant development in India's push to expand rural and remote connectivity through space-based internet services, especially in underserved regions.RBI Slashes Repo Rate by 50 Basis Points to Boost GrowthThe Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee cut the repo rate by 50 basis points to 5.50%, surprising markets and marking the third rate cut in 2025. The move is aimed at reviving economic growth as inflation remains below the 4% target. Borrowers, especially homeowners, will benefit from lower EMIs, but depositors may see reduced returns. Additionally, the RBI lowered the cash reserve ratio by 100 basis points to 3%, injecting ₹2.5 lakh crore of lendable funds into the banking system to spur credit flow.Trump-Musk Twitter Feud Goes Viral Over Policy ClashA fiery online clash erupted late Thursday between US President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk over a proposed domestic policy dubbed the “Big, Beautiful Bill.” What started as a disagreement quickly spiraled into a digital spectacle, with both leaders exchanging jabs in real-time. The feud dominated social media, inspiring memes, satirical headlines, and viral quotes. Musk had openly criticized the bill, prompting Trump's sharp response. The spat highlights ongoing tensions between tech moguls and political leaders in a highly polarized digital age.That's all for today. This was the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

When the British left India in 1947, they decided to leave one lasting impression - divide the lands between two factions that had different views of the world. The partition of India and Pakistan had a large impact on the hills and valleys of Jammu and Kashmir. The most recent massacre in Pahalgam in Apr 2025 has left many of us wondering - why a conflict that began in 1947 still remains unresolved? I went back to the pages of Ramachandra Guha's 'India after Gandhi' to find answers to some of my questions. This episode is part 1 of 3, where I narrate the story of how this conflict began in 1947. Source material for my research1. 'India after Gandhi' by Ramachandra Guha2. Sarah Paine's lectures on the 'War for India'3. William Dalrymple's piece 'The Great Divide'4. Article in Awaz the Voice by Saquib Salim 'When brothers were pitted against each other'5. Tarekh Fatah's 'The Bloody Partition seen through a Pakistani's eyes'Read other pieces by Sangeetha on the 'Lighter Side' on Substack.Drop your questions or comments via email to hello@wsnt.in

Did you know that up to the Partition of India in 1947, Kashmiri Muslims lived in conditions that very much resembled serfdom? Exploitation of Kashmiri Muslims was particularly notable during the Dogra Dynasty, which ruled the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir from 1846 to 1947.Since their partition in 1947, India and Pakistan have fought four wars: in 1947, 1965, 1971 and 1999. Based on research and information, three of these wars were specifically about the Kashmir region. In this interview, I bring historical perspective to conflicts and crises about Kashmir by asking my guest scholar the following questions: ►Is Jammu and Kashmir different than Kashmir?►Who are Kashmiris?►Why did Persian missionaries visit Kashmir?►What happened to Kashmir after the Mughal Empire?►What does it mean that Kashmir was a princely state?►Did the British introduce a more egalitarian system in Kashmir? If so, why?►Why Kashmir was an autonomous region under British rule and until recently in the Republic of India?►Why is Kashmir called the Indian Administered Kashmir?►How did Kashmir become a part of India?►What was the Kashmir massacre that happened in 1947?►How are Kashmiris 'othered' in India?►What is it about Kashmir that makes it different from all other Indian states?►Is Kashmir an integral part of India?►Would my guest scholar be able to freely talk about Kashmir's history in India?

"Why does your blood boil only in front of cameras?" – Rahul Gandhi questions Prime Minister ModiRahul Gandhi to visit Jammu and Kashmir tomorrow!Rajasthan bakery renames 'Mysore Pak'!CBI files chargesheet against eight people including former Governor Satya Pal Malik!New rules for availing gold jewellery loans… How will it impact the public?A disaster for the common people – Minister Thangam Thennarasu opposes!Withdraw the new rules! – Edappadi Palaniswami demandsPune: Hindu and Muslim couples get married on the same stage!Actress Tamannaah appointed brand ambassador for Mysore Sandal Soap!Chief Minister travels to Delhi for NITI Aayog meeting!Centre returns Keezhadi report: “BJP turning mythology into history” – Su. Venkatesan criticizesWhat is the status of TASMAC scam cases? – Madras High Court questionsRed alert issued for several districts in Tamil Nadu!"I've never seen such countless castes anywhere else like in Tamil Nadu" – Governor R.N. RaviWill PMK announce its alliance plans at the state conference?“Velmurugan is better than Seeman!” – NTK's policy propaganda secretary SivasankaranCoimbatore: Dindigul Srinivasan's granddaughter dies in an accidentTrump administration bans foreign students from joining Harvard under the exchange program"Death… Death…" – What did Trump tell the South African President?Trump's verbal clash with South African President; accused of racial genocide!"Weapons in space" – Trump's ‘Golden Dome' plan faces fierce opposition from China and Russia!

A version of this essay has been published by firstpost.com at https://www.firstpost.com/opinion/shadow-warrior-india-fights-alone-narrative-wars-western-gaslighting-and-a-missed-opportunity-13891339.htmlFrom the 1st of May until the 20th I was traveling in the US, and thus had to depend on western media (mostly Twitter/X) for news about Operation Sindoor and the aftermath. It was self-evident that there was no point in reading things like the NYTimes, Wapo, the Economist, etc. because one look at their headlines confirmed that they were “manufacturing consent”.Soft PowerGiven the difference in X posts that I read in the US and those in India, I think the algorithms were deprecating posts for me in ways that are hard to detect. In other words, there is a narrative war where India has no say, but lots at stake. India's soft power is seriously wanting. Joseph Nye, the academic who popularized that phrase, passed away this week: following in his footsteps, it behooves India to make a concerted attempt to improve its story-telling.It faces an uphill battle, because Western, especially American, media has shown an ability to gaslight at scale in three major stories in the recent past: the COVID panic, the “Trump-is-a-Russian-stooge” meme, and the “Biden is mentally sharp as a tack” story. They are good at it, have no love lost for India, and so India needs a long-term plan to get its own propaganda story out, for instance developing an Al-Jazeera-style global footprint or an X-style social medium.The entire Western narrative, for self-serving purposes, continues to be against India, for good reason: they do not wish to see India grow into a peer-level competitor at the G3 level. In this, both China and the West are of one mind, and it shows. Besides, the West has every incentive to try to block India from becoming a major arms exporter: they would prefer India to continue to be one of the biggest importers, preferably from them.Narrative warfare is a Western specialty, as I said in Information Warfare, Narrative-Building: That Kind of Warfare. In addition to kinetic warfare, India needs to up its game here too. Narratives have real-life consequences.The Pakistanis have been quite successful in their own narratives, riding on Western media: here is an example from the Nikkei (which owns the Financial Times) from a Pakistani journalist. This is typical of the stories created by Pakistanis and amplified by western media: basically that India took a major hit, with five or six high-end aircraft downed by Pakistani/Chinese weaponry. The story was repeated so many times that it essentially became the Truth.A step change in aerial warfareMy personal belief is that India won a victory on the ground and in the air, humiliating Pakistan, attacking it at will and exposing its Chinese armaments as below-par. Some thoughtful neutral experts support this view: See Calibrated Force and the Future of Indian Deterrence. India also demonstrated surprising competence in the new age of electronics-based warfare. It may no longer be expensive fighter jets (and by extension, aircraft carriers) that tilt the balance, but missiles, drones and integrated air defense.This must be emphasized. There are periodic step-functions in warfare that render earlier, victorious technologies/processes less valuable: this is similar to disruptive innovation, where the ‘insurgent' firm nullifies the apparent advantages of the ‘incumbent' firm. Often that means a point of inflection. An example is the arrival of the longbow in medieval times that made hitherto unstoppable heavy cavalry stumble. Another is the arrival of air power itself.Today there may be another point of inflection. Experts have suggested that warfare going forward will be software-driven, including drone swarms that can autonomously reshape their formations (reminiscent of the murmurations of flocks of starlings). Presumably, there will be plenty of predictive AI built in as well. Given India's poor track record in software products, it was generally assumed that India would not do so well in such a new environment.In reality, there appears to have been a clever integration of indigenous and imported technology to create an “iron dome” of sorts against Pakistan's Chinese missiles, of which an advanced variant, PL-15, was apparently shot down intact.More interestingly, it appears that Lakshya and Banshee drones were programmed to masquerade as Rafales, Sukhois, etc. by emitting their radar signals, thus attracting enemy fire towards themselves. This might explain the claims of five or six Indian aircraft shot down by Pakistan, whereas in reality they may have simply shot down the phantom, mimic dronesThe implications are large: in effect, India was able to attack Pakistan at will: video evidence shows significant damage to terrorist sites in the first round, and to military sites in the second round, including to key Pakistani air bases, as well as, it is said, the entrance tunnel to the nuclear storage facilities in the Kirana Hills. Indian air dominance appears to have forced the Pakistanis to beg for US support to suggest a cessation of hostilities.This skirmish was proof in the heat of battle for India's indigenous weapons, especially the BrahMos (although of course that is a joint venture with Russia). It may result in a number of serious queries from prospective customers especially in Southeast Asia, who will be interested in battlefield performance against Chinese missiles and aircraft. This would be a win for India's arms industry.Conversely, there is a singular sore spot: fighter jets. For a variety of reasons, most especially the fact that the Kaveri engine has not been allowed to complete its testing and development phase, India is still dependent on others for advanced fighters. And this is just fine as far as they are concerned, because the Americans want to sell F-35s, the French want to sell more Rafales, and the Russians want to sell Su-57s.Here's a twitter comment by a military historian who suggests that India's fighter jets are inadequate. He deleted his further comment that indigenization is fine as industrial policy, but it doesn't work for advanced weaponry. This is a typically sniffy attitude towards India, which is grist to the mill for the Chandigarh Lobby's successful efforts to trash local weapons and gain lucrative middleman deals for foreign weapons.Strategic Dilemma: To push on or notThere is also a strategic dilemma. India has an unfortunate habit of wasting its soldiers' hard-won victories at the negotiating table due to bad political calculations. The epitome of this is of course, Indira Gandhi's 1971 give-away of 93,000 Pakistani PoWs in exchange for essentially… nothing. There is some reason to wonder if something similar happened in 2025 as well. A tactical victory was possibly converted into a stalemate, and the old era of hyphenation and the nuclear bogey has returned.What we saw in 2025 was that the Pakistanis were taken by surprise, and India had a massive advantage. But now that cat is out of the bag, Pakistanis and Chinese will regroup and figure out corrective tactics. Thus India has, to use an American expression, “shot its wad”, and the element of surprise is gone forever.The end game for India is the dissolution of Pakistan into four or five statelets, which, one hopes, will then concentrate on Pakistani Punjab as the root of all their troubles. In that case, they will keep each other occupied, and India can live in peace without regular terrorist attacks. Of course, that may be a pipe-dream, given the Ghazwa-e-Hind formula many entertain, but the collapse of the Pakistani state is anyway desirable for India.Should India have continued its offensive? Forget the murky issue of the nuclear assets in Sargodha. Should India have moved the Line of Control forward into some areas, perhaps into Gilgit-Baltistan (with Sharda Peeth and the Kishenganga) and up to the Jhelum River in Pak-occupied Jammu and Kashmir? The problem though, is that once you start moving past the border posts, you have hostile civilians to contend with, and your supply lines start getting stretched.Even though it is tragic to let go of an opportunity to thrash an enemy that's on the back foot, and Pakistan will inevitably use the truce to rearm itself and come back ever stronger (the Treaty of Hudaybiyah is not a meme in the Islamic world for nothing), it is not clear to me what India could have done to militarily make the LOC irrelevant and make Pakistan implode, especially in the context of American pushback.The role of the USWhy was there pressure from President Trump? One of the things I observed during my US stay is the total absence of DOGE and Elon Musk from the headlines after Trump's 100 days, very contrary to their ubiquity early on. Similarly, the security implications of Trump's recent embrace of Syria's President Al-Sharaa contradicts Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard's views on Syria as evidenced by her tweets. Further, there are U-turns on tariffs.This means Trump is being mercurial as ever. Furthermore, there might be something to the idea that his family's embrace of crypto may have endeared Pakistan – which is making noises about supporting crypto at scale – to him. All this is red-pilling many about Trump. Indeed, he may be allowing short-term, commercial considerations to drive policy, which may return to haunt the US: that is exactly what Clinton, Bush, Obama et al did with respect to China.On the other hand, there are longer-term considerations, too. Pakistan is essentially a Potemkin nation, which has no particular reason to exist, other than it is being propped up. Initially, it was a British project for the Russian Great Game; then it was taken over by the US Deep State in order to fend off the Soviet Union. Pakistan was a “major non-NATO ally” (MNNA) according to Obama if I remember right, and earlier it was a member of CENTO and SEATO.The IMF loan to Pakistan, approved in the middle of the hostilities, is not surprising, either: this has happened before. In a way, it is a complicated money-laundering activity. Funds from somewhere (possibly Qatar) are channeled to Pakistan, which then buys American arms. Thus the Deep State Military Industrial Complex is the winner.With the end of the Afghanistan wars, Pakistan offers no obvious geographic and strategic value to the US. Unless, of course, the target is no longer Russia, but India. Perhaps in anticipation of its being a check on India, the US had helped Pakistan nuclearize, according to this archived article from the NYTimes: US and China Helped Pakistan Build Its Bomb, from a time when it was possibly more truthful. I am indebted to Brahma Chellaney for this link.This may suggest that Pakistan's nuclear ‘assets' are not theirs, but are managed by American crew. On the other hand, though, the greater possibility is that such assets are loaned by China. Pakistan is a fantastic force multiplier for China.Abhimanyu SyndromeThe bottom line, then, is that India is on its own: sort of an Abhimanyu Syndrome, with nobody to help. The most obvious ‘friend' is Japan (because of the China threat), but it is severely constrained by American red lines: see how there was not a murmur from the Quad after Pahalgam. India's very possible rise is in fact encouraging other powers to put it down: grow so much, but no farther.There really is no alternative for India but to industrialize, manufacture everything possible for its large internal market, and increase the level of strategic autonomy in everything it makes: no more dependence on third parties, which may feel free to use kill switches, or deny spares or components at will. In this round, India did surprisingly well with indigenous technology, and it has articulated a strategy of escalating deterrence. To put teeth into this, innovation at home must continue.Here's the AI-generated podcast about this episode from notebookLM.google.com: 1975 words, 22 May 2025 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rajeevsrinivasan.substack.com/subscribe

Radhika Desai returns to PTO to talk about the latest round of violence between India and Pakistan, following the terrorist attack that killed 26 tourists in Indian administered Kashmir on April 22nd. We discussed the situation in Jammu and Kashmir since 2019, when the Hindu nationalist government of Narendra Modi revoked the territory's special status under the Indian constitution and brought it under direct rule amid a wave of violent repression. We also talked about fears in Kashmir about the Indian government seeking to change the demographic balance in the territory, and about the scale of the fighting Pakistan and India - which far exceeded the previous round of the conflict in 2019. Show notes: Our previous conversation can be listened to here: https://soundcloud.com/poltheoryother/peak-hindutva-w-radhika-desai Read more about Radhika's work here: https://radhikadesai.com/ And Radhika's 2002 paper on India, Pakistan and the war on terror can be read here: https://www.academia.edu/281710/Tryst_with_Fate_India_and_Pakistan_in_the_War_on_Terrorism_2002_

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.Today is the 20th of May and here are the headlines.1. India's Global Anti-Terror Diplomacy DriveIndia has launched a major diplomatic outreach, sending seven multi-party delegations to 32 countries to highlight its fight against terrorism, particularly from Pakistani soil. Briefed by the Ministry of External Affairs, the teams will explain India's military response after the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor. PM Modi framed the doctrine as part of a global anti-terror campaign, stating there will be zero tolerance for terror sheltered by “nuclear blackmail.” The goal: convince the world not to equate India, a terror victim, with Pakistan, a terror perpetrator.2. TMC Replaces Yusuf Pathan With Abhishek BanerjeeAfter initially rejecting the Centre's move to include Yusuf Pathan in its foreign outreach delegations, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has nominated Abhishek Banerjee instead. The switch came after Union Minister Kiren Rijiju spoke to TMC chief Mamata Banerjee. Abhishek, the party's general secretary, will now join the anti-terror diplomatic push. Separately, TMC is sending its own delegation, led by Manas Bhunia, to Jammu and Kashmir to support victims of cross-border terror. Earlier, Pathan, a cricketer-turned-MP, had been named without TMC's consultation, prompting the initial protest.3. Heavy Rains Disrupt Bengaluru; Red Alert IssuedBengaluru faced severe disruptions on Tuesday after intense pre-monsoon thundershowers caused widespread flooding and traffic chaos. The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for the city and Karnataka, forecasting heavy rain, thunderstorms, and lightning through May 26. Commuters struggled, with some taking two hours to travel just 7 km. The Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre has echoed warnings of extremely heavy rainfall and advised caution. The relentless downpour left several areas waterlogged, reigniting concerns over the city's poor infrastructure and monsoon preparedness.4. Veteran Nuclear Scientist M R Srinivasan Dies at 95M R Srinivasan, former Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and a pioneer of India's nuclear program, passed away on Tuesday at age 95. He is survived by his wife and daughter. Srinivasan played a key role in developing India's indigenous nuclear capabilities, working alongside legendary scientist Dr Homi Bhabha. Honoured with the Padma Vibhushan, his death marks the end of a historic era in Indian science. District Collector Lakshmi Bhavya Tanneeru paid floral tributes to the distinguished scientist's mortal remains.5. Netanyahu Offers Conditional End to Gaza WarIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he's willing to end the Gaza war if Hamas agrees to strict terms, including disarming. His statement comes amid rising international pressure, with the UK, France, and Canada threatening sanctions over Israel's latest Gaza offensive. Netanyahu slammed these nations for demanding a Palestinian state, calling it a reward for “genocidal attacks on Israel.” In a joint statement, the Western leaders criticized Israel's denial of humanitarian aid to Palestinians, warning that it could violate international law if continued.That's all for today. This was the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

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First, we talk to The Indian Express' Udit Misra about the IMF's recent decision to release $1 billion to Pakistan amid ongoing India–Pakistan tensions and why this move has raised concerns.Next, we speak to The Indian Express' Arun Sharma about a new threat faced by residents of Jammu and Kashmir's border villages, unexploded munitions, and what the authorities are doing to address the danger. (14:10)In the end, we break down what India has officially revealed about the scale and impact of Operation Sindoor and the return of a BSF jawan who had crossed the border during the crisis. (21:55)Hosted by Ichha SharmaProduced and written by Shashank Bhargava and Ichha SharmaEdited 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 May and here are the headlines.BSF jawan Poornam Kumar Shaw, who accidentally crossed into Pakistan during a patrol on April 23 near Punjab's Ferozepur sector, was handed back to India on Wednesday morning via the Attari Joint Check Post. A resident of West Bengal, Shaw was in Pakistani custody for 21 days, during a time of heightened border tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. The 73rd battalion of the BSF is deployed in the area. His return marks a resolution to the cross-border incident that had drawn national concern.Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP leader Ajit Pawar clarified on Tuesday night that no merger discussions have taken place between his faction and the Sharad Pawar-led NCP. Speaking at a weekly party meeting in Mumbai, Ajit Pawar addressed his legislators directly, urging them not to believe merger rumors. He emphasized transparency and assured them there was no confusion on his stance. The clarification comes amid growing speculation about reunification, which has sparked political buzz ahead of upcoming elections in Maharashtra.India's Operation Sindoor precision strikes destroyed nearly 20% of Pakistan Air Force infrastructure and multiple fighter jets, official sources said Tuesday. The strikes targeted key bases like Sargodha and Bholari, which housed F-16s and JF-17s, in retaliation to Pakistani drone and missile attacks. Over 50 people, including Squadron Leader Usman Yusuf, were killed in Bholari. India also hit ammunition depots and several other airbases across Pakistan. Satellite imagery confirmed major damage. The strikes mark a significant strategic and psychological blow to Pakistan's military capabilities.US President Donald Trump met Syria's interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Riyadh after unexpectedly lifting all sanctions on Syria's Islamist-led government. The move, revealed Wednesday, represents a sharp turn in US foreign policy. Sharaa, a former al Qaeda commander who ousted Assad and later renounced extremism, has led Syria since December. The meeting occurred during Trump's Gulf tour, which also included $600 billion in Saudi investment pledges and $142 billion in arms deals. The shift has drawn criticism from Israel and US officials concerned about Sharaa's militant past.At least 48 people, including 22 children, were killed in Israeli airstrikes on Jabaliya in northern Gaza between Tuesday night and early Wednesday. Hospitals, including the Indonesian Hospital, reported high casualties from strikes that hit residential zones. The attacks followed the release of an Israeli-American hostage by Hamas, briefly raising hopes of de-escalation. Israel had issued evacuation warnings, citing Hamas military targets in the area. However, many civilians remained. The Israeli military declined to comment. The strikes have intensified international concerns about rising civilian casualties in Gaza.That's all for today. This was the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.Today is the 12th of May and here are the headlines.India's Air Defence Foils Pakistani Strikes Amid Operation SindoorIndia targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK, but the Pakistani military intervened, said Air Marshal A.K. Bharti. Speaking after a high-level security meet with PM Modi, he confirmed all Indian air bases and defence systems are fully operational. Indian air defences successfully intercepted enemy threats, including Chinese-origin PL-15 missiles, long-range rockets, and loitering munitions. He highlighted the professionalism of India's air defence crews in neutralising incoming threats. The briefing underscored India's preparedness for any escalation following its precision strikes under Operation Sindoor.Virat Kohli Retires from Test Cricket Ahead of England TourVirat Kohli announced his immediate retirement from Test cricket via Instagram on Monday, just before India's five-match England tour. His decision follows Rohit Sharma's recent Test exit. Kohli, widely considered one of India's greatest batters, scored 9,230 runs in 210 Test innings at an average of 46.85. He now ranks fourth among Indian Test run-scorers, behind Tendulkar, Dravid, and Gavaskar. Kohli's retirement marks the end of a golden era in Indian Test cricket and signals a generational shift in the team's leadership and batting core.India Reopens Airports After Ceasefire With PakistanIndia has lifted the temporary ban on civil flight operations at 32 airports in northern and western regions following a ceasefire understanding with Pakistan. The restrictions, imposed amid rising cross-border tensions and air strikes, were initially to last until May 15. Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) issued Friday were cancelled on Monday, and flight operations are expected to resume soon. The airports, many located near military bases or conflict zones, were closed to protect civilian traffic from potential threats as hostilities peaked last week.First Quiet Night in J&K Since Start of India-Pakistan StandoffThe Indian Army confirmed a peaceful night across Jammu and Kashmir and along the international border on Sunday, marking the first calm since the May 7 launch of Operation Sindoor. This pause in hostilities comes after India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire on Saturday. Although explosions were reported in Srinagar and Punjab-Rajasthan border areas shortly after the announcement, no further firing occurred overnight. The lull offers a temporary reprieve after days of artillery fire and cross-border shelling that intensified following the Pahalgam terror attack.US-China Strike Deal to Slash Tariffs and Pause Trade WarThe US and China have agreed to reduce reciprocal tariffs and pause their trade war for 90 days, according to Reuters. After Geneva talks, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said both countries aim to de-escalate tensions. China will fix tariffs on US goods at 10%, suspend 24% additional tariffs, and scrap 91% of other duties. Bessent noted the US wants greater Chinese market access. The move could ease pressure on global markets, which have been rattled by months of retaliatory measures between the world's two largest economies.That's all for today. This was the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

Surrender of Pakistan | Ceasefire | Drones Back in Jammu, Udhampur | Balochistan Breaks Pakistan

Türkiye welcomes Russia-Ukraine peace talks President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin's proposal to resume Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul on May 15, expressing Türkiye's readiness to host negotiations. In Sunday's phone call, Erdogan and Putin discussed bilateral ties, energy projects and regional issues. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed his attendance. Erdogan also spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron, stressing cooperation for peace. US President Donald Trump, on the other hand, urged Ukraine to accept Putin's proposal immediately. Russian and Ukrainian officials met in Istanbul in 2022 to discuss ongoing conflict. Hamas to release US-Israeli captive as Washington criticises Israel Hamas announced it will release 21-year-old US-Israeli soldier Edan Alexander as part of direct ceasefire talks with the US. The Palestinian resistance group linked his release to the reopening of aid crossings. Trump welcomed the move as a gesture of goodwill towards Washington and mediators Egypt and Qatar. Meanwhile, Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accusing his government of prolonging the Gaza war and stalling hostage deals, during a meeting with Israeli families. Israel has killed over fifty-two-thousand-eight-hundred Palestinians in its genocidal war on Gaza since October 2023. Pakistan provides details of its strikes on Indian targets Pakistan claimed to have struck 26 Indian military sites and deployed drones over major Indian cities, including New Delhi, in recent fighting, as both nuclear-armed rivals observe a cautious cessation of hostilities since Saturday. Pakistan also said it had downed five Indian jets. The Indian Air Force acknowledged losses without giving details but confirmed that all pilots had returned safely. Reuters reported three jet crashes in India-administered Kashmir. Despite the ceasefire, border residents remain displaced, while cities such as Jammu and Amritsar remained subdued amid ongoing security concerns. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump stated that the US would work with India and Pakistan to resolve the Kashmir dispute. Severe flooding in DRC leaves 62 dead, dozens missing Severe flooding in the Democratic Republic of Congo's South Kivu province has claimed at least 62 lives, with 50 people still missing. The deluge, triggered by torrential rains, struck at 5 am local time on Friday, flooding Kasaba village in the Ngandja sector. Search efforts are hampered by damaged infrastructure and communication breakdowns, with only the Red Cross assisting. It followed the recent flooding in Kinshasa that killed 33 people. The region is already grappling with ongoing conflict with rebels, further complicating the humanitarian response. Trump declares 'total reset' in US-China relations US President Donald Trump announced a ""very good meeting"" on trade with Chinese officials in Switzerland, claiming a ""total reset"" in US-China relations. The talks, which began in Geneva on Saturday, resumed on Sunday. The US delegation, led by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, met with Vice Premier He Lifeng of China. The negotiations are the first face-to-face talks since both nations imposed trade tariffs.

From August 27, 2019: On August 5, the Indian government announced that it was revoking “special status” for the states of Jammu and Kashmir, enshrined in Article 370 of its constitution. Since then, the government has instituted a lockdown in the Kashmir valley, hundreds of people have been detained, there have been mass protests, and tens of thousands of Indian troops have been deployed to the region. Professor Christine Fair of Georgetown University's Security Studies Program sat down with Benjamin Wittes to discuss Article 370, its history, and the current state-of-play in the region.To receive ad-free podcasts, become a Lawfare Material Supporter at www.patreon.com/lawfare. You can also support Lawfare by making a one-time donation at https://givebutter.com/lawfare-institute.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Operation Sindoor - India Ready to Attack Pakistan | Jammu, Chandigarh | Col Ajay Raina, Aadi Achint

What will Happen Tonight | Attack in Jammu, Srinagar, Rajasthan | Turkey Involved - India's Response

durée : 00:04:57 - Les Cartes en mouvement - par : Delphine Papin - Cette semaine, dans les Cartes en mouvement, Delphine Papin s'intéresse au Cachemire, cette région à nouveau sous tension entre l'Inde et le Pakistan après l'attaque meurtrière du 22 avril dernier, qui a visé des touristes à Pahalgam, dans le Jammu-et-Cachemire, la zone administrée par l'Inde.

The Indian Premier League has been suspended by the BCCI following strikes in a host of cities –– Amritsar, Pathankot, Jaisalmer, and Jammu.

Episode 96 of The Prakhar Gupta Xperience features Major General G.D. Bakshi, a decorated Indian Army veteran with extensive experience in counter-terror operations and strategic warfare. He served in key commands across Jammu & Kashmir and was a part of the Kargil conflict. A prolific author and military historian, he is known for his in-depth analysis of India's security landscape and national defense.Recording Date: May 9, 2025This is what we talked about:00:00 - Monologue03:37 - Escalation of Events After Pahalgam19:40 - Why Pakistan Cannot Match India's Military Power22:20 - Are India and Pakistan Nearing Full-Scale War?27:16 - How Propaganda Shapes Pakistani Citizens' Opinions32:33 - The Importance of Information Flow During Wartime33:50 - Pakistani Army's Loss of Morale38:09 - Will China Intervene in the India-Pakistan Conflict?41:33 - Cold Warfare vs. Modern Warfare53:28 - How India and Pakistan Can De-escalate the Conflict

First, we talk to The Indian Express' Ankita Upadhyay about the Indraprastha Apollo hospital and its commitment to the government to provide free medical services to EWS patients and the reason why more than 30 years later, the promise is now under scrutiny by the Supreme Court of India.Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Sweety Kumari about Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's two day visit to Murshidabad and her interactions with the victims of the violence that happened last month. (11:54)Lastly, we speak about the escalation of tension between India and Pakistan post Operation Sindoor. (22:49)Hosted by Niharika NandaProduced and written by Niharika Nanda, Shashank Bhargava and Ichha SharmaEdited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

This episode features Nitin A. Gokhale, one of South Asia's leading strategic affairs analysts, who joins co-hosts Ray Powell and Jim Carouso to break down the ongoing conflict along the India-Pakistan border, offering expert insight into its origins, recent triggers and global stakes.The conflict's roots trace back to the 1947 partition of India and the disputed territory of Jammu and Kashmir, which has sparked four wars between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. Tensions reignited recently after a terrorist attack in Kashmir, where militants targeted and killed Hindu tourists. Pakistani terrorist groups such as Lashkar-e-Toiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed are allegedly supported by the Pakistani military and intelligence services.In retaliation, India conducted strikes against terrorist camps in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and, for the first time, across the Kashmir border into Pakistan's homeland. India emphasized that its response was targeted, non-escalatory, and focused solely on terrorist infrastructure, aiming to avoid a broader military confrontation.Gokhale explains that Pakistan's internal instability--including insurgencies in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, strained relations with the Taliban and political unrest--may have influenced the timing of the attack. The Pakistani military, facing low public confidence and political challenges, may have sought to rally domestic support by provoking a crisis with India.With both countries possessing nuclear weapons, the stakes are high. Gokhale suggests that international pressure and Pakistan's internal weaknesses could create an off-ramp for de-escalation. India's careful messaging and restraint are designed to reinforce deterrence without inviting a full-scale war.The discussion explores the influence of China, Russia, the United States, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. While India insists on bilateral solutions, outside actors may quietly urge restraint to protect their own interests in regional stability and economic ties.The episode delves into the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, a critical agreement for Pakistan's agriculture. India's move to withhold hydrological data and potentially control water flows adds another layer of pressure on Pakistan.Gokhale contextualizes India's actions within Prime Minister Modi's security philosophy: resolute on the border, reasonable in diplomacy. Modi's approach favors decisive retaliation against cross-border terrorism while avoiding unnecessary escalation.The India-Pakistan border conflict is not just a regional issue–it has global implications due to the risk of nuclear escalation, the involvement of major powers and the precedent it sets for responding to state-sponsored terrorism. Understanding the dynamics at play is essential for anyone interested in international security, South Asian geopolitics or global peace.

Editors Jimmy Lovaas and Halima Mansoor discuss the spiraling tensions between India and Pakistan following Indian strikes in Pakistan and the terror attack in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, plus more on China's president visiting Russia, elections in the Philippines, India's prime minister visiting Norway and a US Supreme Court hearing on birthright citizenship.Subscribe to the show: Apple Podcasts, Spotify and many more. These stories and others are also available in our free weekly Forecast newsletter.This episode includes work from Factal editors Halima Mansoor, Hua Hsieh, Matthew Hipolito, Irene Villora and Jeff Landset. Produced and edited by Jimmy Lovaas. Music courtesy of Andrew Gospe. Have feedback, suggestions or events we've missed? Drop us a note: hello@factal.comWhat's Factal? Created by the founders of Breaking News, Factal alerts companies to global incidents that pose an immediate risk to their people or business operations. We provide trusted verification, precise incident mapping and a collaboration platform for corporate security, travel safety and emergency management teams. If you're a company interested in a trial, please email sales@factal.com. To learn more, visit Factal.com, browse the Factal blog or email us at hello@factal.com.Read the full episode description and transcript on Factal's blog.Copyright © 2025 Factal. All rights reserved.

Dr Abhinav Pandya, a Cornell University graduate in public affairs and a bachelor's from St. Stephen's College, Delhi, is a founder and CEO of Usanas Foundation, an India-based foreign policy and security think tank. He has authored books named 'Radicalization in India: An Exploration (2019)' and 'Terror Financing in Kashmir (2023)'.He had previously advised the former governor of Jammu and Kashmir on security issues during the critical times when Kashmir's special status, Article 370, was revoked.He has written extensively for several national and international newspapers, and worked with the International Labour Organization, the United Nations.His latest book is "Inside the terrifying world of Jaish-e-Mohammad'.

Tensions between India and Pakistan are mounting following Indian airstrikes on what it claims were “terrorist camps” located in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The developments have triggered international concern, with the UK, Russia, China, several European countries, and the United Nations all calling for restraint and dialogue between the nuclear-armed neighbours. A spokesperson for Foreign Minister Penny Wong also said Australia is engaging with India and Pakistan in response to recent developments in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Indian armed forces launched "Operation Sindoor," hitting nine sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the government said in a statement. We get the latest on this with Aakash Hassan, Independent Journalist based in Kashmir reporting for The Guardian.

This is the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I am Ichha Sharma.Today is the 7th of May and here are the headlines.In a decisive military action, India launched "Operation Sindoor" in the early hours today, executing precision strikes on nine terrorist camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This operation was a direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in the deaths of 26 Indian tourists. During a press briefing in New Delhi, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh detailed the operation's objectives and outcomes. They confirmed the destruction of camps associated with notorious terrorists Ajmal Kasab and David Headley. The strikes were meticulously planned to avoid civilian casualties, utilizing advanced weaponry and precision-guided munitions. Targets were carefully selected to dismantle terrorist infrastructure while sparing Pakistani military installations, underscoring India's intent to avoid escalation.Colonel Qureshi emphasised that the operation aimed to deliver justice to the victims of the Pahalgam attack and their families. Wing Commander Singh highlighted the use of "niche technology weapons" to ensure that only intended targets were neutralized, minimizing collateral damage. In the wake of the operation, Pakistan has condemned the strikes as an "act of war," claiming civilian casualties and asserting that Indian military aircraft were downed—a claim not corroborated by India. The situation has led to heightened tensions along the Line of Control, with reports of cross-border shelling and civilian casualties on both sides. The cross-border shelling by Pakistani forces has claimed at least nine civilians lives and 38 injured in Jammu and Kashmir today. The international community, including the United Nations, has expressed concern and urged both nations to exercise restraint to prevent further escalation.The ministries of IT and Information and Broadcasting are “constantly monitoring” content being uploaded to social media platforms for misleading content related to the aftermath of ‘Operation Sindoor' to issue takedown orders, and have sensitised social media platforms to block any content that is unlawful, a senior government official told The Indian Express. Agencies and organisations which are in charge of India's critical infrastructure, such as the Power Ministry, financial institutions including banks, and telecom operators are also on “high alert” after having faced a number of cyber attacks following the Pahalgam terror attack last month. “There have been some DDoS attacks on some infrastructure, but we have contained them. Now we are on high alert because such attempts will certainly be made,” the official said. A DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attack is a cyberattack where an attacker overwhelms a website, server, or network with malicious traffic from multiple sources, making it slow or inaccessible to legitimate users.India conducted a nationwide civil defence exercise, codenamed 'Operation Abhyas,' across 244 districts. This large-scale mock drill, organized by the Ministry of Home Affairs and coordinated by the National Disaster Management Authority, aimed to bolster emergency preparedness amid escalating tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack. The drills simulated various hostile scenarios, including air raids with siren activations, blackout procedures, urban fire emergencies, search and rescue operations, casualty evacuations, and the establishment of temporary hospitals. Major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Pune participated, with specific activities like a 10-minute blackout observed in Haryana and siren activations in Delhi's 11 districts.Cardinals from around the world will begin casting their votes for a new pope under Michelangelo's The Last Judgment as 133 cardinals would begin their secretive and centuries old ritual to elect the successor of Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21. The conclave to select the new pope will begin behind the closed doors of the Sistine Chapel today afternoon as cardinals from 70 countries will be secluded, their cellphones surrendered and airwaves around the Vatican jammed in order to find the next leader of the 1.4-billion-member Catholic Church. Ahead of the Papal Conclave, a few names have propped up who are being seen as favourites to succeed Pope Francis, namely Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Hungarian Cardinal Peter Erdo among others. The uncertainty over the level of support for any one cardinal amongst the 133 cardinal electors suggests that it is one of the most wide-open conclaves in history.

Hii leo jaridani tunaangazia mvutano unaoendelea barani Asia kati ya majirani wawili India na Pakistani, na msaada wa mguu bandia uliowezesha mtototo nchini Kenya kwenda shule. Makala tunakupeleka nchini Tanzania na mashinani tunakwenda katika ukanda wa Gaza.Huko barani Asia majirani wawili India na Pakistani wameendelea kuoneshana mvutano kati yao kwenye eneo la Jammu na Kashmiri tangu tarehe 22 mwezi uliopita wa Aprili baada ya shambulizi huko Pahalgam. Katibu Mkuu ametoa wito kwa mara nyingine tena.Shirika la Umoja wa Mataifa la kuhudumia watoto UNICEF kwa kushirikiana na wadau wameleta neema kwa watoto wanaoishi na ulemavu katika Kaunti ya Kisumu Magharibi mwa Kenya baada ya kuwapa msaada wa vifaa ikiwemo viti mwendo na viungo bandia kupitia mradi wa ubunifu kwa ajili ya watoto wenye ulemavu, msaada uliobadili maisha yao.Makala katika wiki ya chanjo duniani, iliyotamatishwa tarehe 30 wiki iliyopita, mtaa wa Butiama, ulioko Mtoni Kijichi katika wilaya ya Temeke, jijini Dar es Salaam, nchini Tanzania ulishuhudia wazazi na walezi wakijitokeza kuwapatia watoto wao chanjo muhimu za kuwalinda dhidi ya maradhi hatari. Miongoni mwao ni Hija Halfani ambaye alimpeleka mtoto wake mwenye umri wa siku 42 kupata chanjo yake ya kwanza.”Na mashinani mashinani, kama sehemu ya juhudi za kutoa nafasi ya kujieleza kisanii na kuwaunga mkono Wapalestina kihisia (emotional support), UNRWA imeandaa maonesho ya sanaa katika Shule ya Al-Rimal, ambayo sasa ni makazi ya wakimbizi wa ndani katika ukanda wa Gaza, na watoto walipata fursa ya kuonesha kazi za sanaa zinazoakisi(reflect) madhila wanayopitia wakati wa vita kati ya Israeli na Hamas ambavyo bado vinaendelea. Malak Fayad, msichana mkimbizi kutoka Beit Hanoun ni mmoja wao akionesha sanaa yake.….Mwenyeji wako ni Leah Mushi, karibu!

Huko barani Asia majirani wawili India na Pakistani wameendelea kuoneshana mvutano kati yao kwenye eneo la Jammu na Kashmiri tangu tarehe 22 mwezi uliopita wa Aprili baada ya shambulizi huko Pahalgam. Katibu Mkuu  wa Umoja wa Mataifa António Guterres ametoa wito kama anavyoelezea Assumpta Massoi.

In this gripping episode of In Our Defence, host Dev Goswami sits down with Major LS Chaudhary (Retd.) to explore the reality of counter-terror operations in Jammu and Kashmir, and the rigorous training life at the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Indian Military Academy (IMA). From close-quarters combat against Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists to the psychological toll of surviving a life-altering injury, Major Chaudhary gives a rare, first-person account of what it truly means to serve in a conflict zone. The episode also focuses on the reality of counter-terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, especially in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, and what people usually get wrong about such operations. Finally, the episode dives deep into the discipline, myths, and unfiltered truths of military training—the relationship between cadets and drill ustaads, the secret rule-breaking, iconic NDA/IMA moments, and the real story of actor Hrithik Roshan being corrected on set by a drill instructor during the filming of Lakshya. Produced by Prateek Lidhoo Sound mix by Aman Pal

António Guterres disse que o mundo não pode suportar um conflito entre as duas nações vizinhas; ele ofereceu apoio da ONU para acalmar tensões, que atingiram nível mais elevado em anos, após ataque terrorista na área de Pahalgam, em Jammu e Caxemira.

consecuencias terminamos pagando todos los españoles son las once la diez en canarias seguimos con la linterna encendida ya estamos en la plaza de san pedro del vaticano con expósito la última hora en la linterna cope estar informado última hora teletipo de la agencia efe fechado en Delhi en la India la India bombardea supuestas bases terroristas en Pakistán comunicado del ejército indio hace poco las fuerzas armadas lanzaron la operación sindoor golpeando infraestructuras terroristas en Pakistán y en la zona de Jammu y Cachemira ocupada por Pakistán dicen desde donde se han planeado y ...

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.Today is the 5th of May and here are the headlines.Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh on Monday, following a briefing by Indian Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh on India's military preparedness after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22. The meeting focused on potential retaliatory measures against Pakistan. Additionally, the UN Security Council will hold a closed-door meeting regarding the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, with Pakistan calling for an emergency session. India has already taken actions, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and downgrading diplomatic ties.Pakistani troops engaged in unprovoked firing across eight forward sectors along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday, violating ceasefire agreements. This marks the 11th consecutive night of such violations, following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22. The unprovoked firing has been widespread, with violations now affecting multiple sectors along the LoC, a shift from past occurrences, which typically focused on southern Pir Panjal. India retaliated to protect its borders and maintain peace in the region amidst rising tensions with Pakistan.Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir discovered a militant hideout in the border district of Poonch on Monday. During a search operation in the Surankote forest area, the Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police's Special Operations Group recovered five improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and two wireless sets. The search followed intelligence reports. The IEDs, weighing between 0.5 kg and 5 kg, were destroyed in a controlled explosion at the site. The operation underscores ongoing efforts to neutralize militant threats in the region, especially amid rising tensions with Pakistan.Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the Pahalgam terror attack during a phone conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday. He expressed deep condolences for the victims and reiterated Russia's full support for India's fight against terrorism. Putin emphasized that the perpetrators and their supporters must be brought to justice. The leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Additionally, Modi extended greetings to Putin on Russia's 80th Victory Day anniversary, highlighting the longstanding diplomatic ties between the two nations.That's all for today. This was the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

A deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir shattered a narrative Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has spent years constructing - that Kashmir was safe, open for business, and back to “normal”. In response, Indian officials have launched a sweeping crackdown and spurred nationalist rhetoric. Much of the media is echoing the government line. Too busy demanding revenge to ask the most basic of questions: How did this happen? Contributors: Anuradha Bhasin – Managing editor, Kashmir Times Sreenivasan Jain - Journalist and author Swasti Rao - Associate professor, Jindal Global University; consulting editor, The Print Nirupama Subramanian - Journalist On our radar In Pakistan, the media narrative on what happened in Kashmir has been dominated by powerful military and intelligence figures. But on social media, users are pushing back with satire and scepticism. Ryan Kohls reports. The White House and the memefication of cruelty Donald Trump has completed the chaotic first 100 days of his second term, marked by aggressive policies, talk of annexing neighbouring countries, and declarations of war against the mainstream media, universities and law firms. His administration's online presence, filled with brash language and often cruel memes, reflects and amplifies his confrontational political style. Meenakshi Ravi reports. Featuring:  Meredith Clark – UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media Jon Roozenbeek – Professor of psychology and security, King's College London Jude Russo – Managing editor, The American Conservative

It's been a typically busy few months in the world of Indian politics and policy.To roundup all the latest developments from India, Milan is joined on the show this week by Grand Tamasha regulars Sadanand Dhume of the American Enterprise Institute and the Wall Street Journal and Tanvi Madan of the Brookings Institution.The trio discuss the recent terrorist attack which killed 26 civilians in Jammu and Kashmir, U.S. Vice President JD Vance's recent whirlwind trip to India, and Trump's tariff threats and India's calibrated response.Plus, they review the first 100 days of the Trump administration and discuss what, if anything, has surprised them about the early months of Trump 2.0.Episode notes:1. Sadanand Dhume, “JD Vance's India Visit Highlights Closer U.S. Relations,” Wall Street Journal, April 23, 2025.2. Sadanand Dhume, “Trump's Tariffs Are Modi's Greatest Economic Test,” Wall Street Journal, April 9, 2025.3. Tanvi Madan, “Top Gun & Scattershot,” Times of India, January 20, 2025.4. “Modi Meets Trump, With Tanvi Madan,” The President's Inbox (podcast), February 18, 2025.5. “Trump & Modi: Part Deux (with Sadanand Dhume and Tanvi Madan),” Grand Tamasha, February 19, 2025.

First, we talk to The Indian Express' Brendan Dabhi about a crackdown on illegal immigrants from Bangladesh as a response to the Pahalgam terror attack. He shares how around 890 residents were rounded up by the Ahmedabad City Police from a settlement near Chandola Lake and subjected to identity checks.Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Hamza Khan about former BJP MLA Gyandev Ahuja who was expelled by the party recently because he 'purified' a temple after the leader of opposition in the Rajasthan Assembly visited it. (11:31Lastly, we speak about the Jammu and Kashmir government shutting down certain tourist destinations due to security concerns. (21:51)Produced and Hosted by Niharika Nanda and Ichha SharmaEdited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.Today is the 30th of April and here are the headlines.Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the second Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed at least 26 people. Key ministers including Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, and S. Jaishankar attended. Modi also led meetings of the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA) and the Cabinet Economic Affairs Committee (CCEA). A cabinet briefing is scheduled for 4 PM. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Army continued “unprovoked firing” across Jammu and Kashmir's LoC for the sixth night, with the Indian Army responding proportionately, officials told PTI.A newly constructed wall at the Simhachalam temple in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, collapsed early Tuesday, killing seven and injuring six. The collapse followed heavy rain and occurred during the Akshaya Tritiya festival, with crowds gathering from 4 AM. Officials said the wall gave way when people leaned on it near a ticket counter. Home Minister V Anita noted the toll could have been higher if many hadn't stepped back after noticing the wall weakening. The structure had been built recently near the temple's special entrance staircase.The Supreme Court, citing the right to digital access as part of life and liberty, ordered changes to digital KYC norms to aid people with vision impairment and acid attack survivors. The ruling came from Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan in response to two writ petitions. The court directed authorities to revise KYC procedures to ensure accessibility and inclusion for those with visual disabilities, emphasizing that digital rights must be inclusive. The decision marks a step toward equitable access to essential digital identification systems in India.The Delhi Anti-Corruption Branch filed an FIR against former Deputy CM Manish Sisodia and former PWD Minister Satyendar Jain over alleged corruption in constructing 12,748 classrooms during AAP's rule. The scam is reportedly worth Rs 2,000 crore. ACB chief Madhur Verma confirmed the FIR, stating major cost escalations, delays, and deviations were observed. None of the works were completed on time. Officials alleged the contracts were awarded to parties close to the AAP. The investigation highlights serious irregularities in infrastructure development under the previous administration.Former US President Donald Trump held a rally in Warren, Michigan, to mark 100 days since returning to office. Addressing a large crowd, he celebrated what he called major economic achievements and attacked Democrats, especially Joe Biden, over immigration. Trump said he missed the campaign trail and used the Michigan rally—his first major public event since January 20—to reignite his base. The location was symbolic, being a center of the auto industry, where Trump emphasized jobs, the economy, and America-first policies during his address.That's all for today. This was the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

Jon Olson, retired Naval Intelligence Officer, professor and author, discusses national security issues relating to the attack in Kashmir last week and the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.

This week we talk about British India, Kashmir, and water treaties.We also discuss the global order, sovereignty, and tit-for-tat escalation.Recommended Book: Power Metal by Vince BeiserTranscriptWhen then British India was partitioned by the British in 1947, the country carved up by its colonialist rulers into two new countries, one Hindu majority, the Union of India, and one Muslim majority, the Dominion of Pakistan, the intention was to separate two religious groups that were increasingly at violent odds with each other, within a historical context in which Muslims were worried they would be elbowed out of power by the Hindu-majority, at a moment in which carving up countries into new nations was considered to be a solution to many such problems.The partition didn't go terribly well by most measures, as the geographic divisions weren't super well thought out, tens of millions of people had to scramble to upend their entire lives to move to their new, faith-designated homelands, and things like infrastructure and wealth were far from evenly distributed between the two new regions.Pakistan was also a nation literally divided by India, part of its landmass on the other side of what was now another country, and its smaller landmass eventually separated into yet another country following Bangladesh's violent but successful secession from Pakistan in 1971.There was a lot more to that process, of course, and the reverberations of that decision are still being felt today, in politics, in the distribution of land and assets, and in regional and global conflict.But one affected region, Kashmir, has been more of a flashpoint for problems than most of the rest of formerly British India, in part because of where it's located, and in part because of happenings not long after the partition.Formerly Jammu and Kashmir, the Kashmir region, today, is carved up between India, Pakistan, and China. India controls a little over half of its total area, which houses 70% of the region's population, while Pakistan controls a little less than a third of its land mass, and China controls about 15%.What was then Jammu and Kashmir dragged its feet in deciding which side of the partition to join when the countries were being separated, the leader Hindu, though ruling over a Muslim state, but an invasion from the Pakistan side saw it cast its lot in with India. India's counter-invasion led to the beginning of what became known as both the Indo-Pakistani war of 1947-1948, the first of four such wars, but is also sometimes called the first Kashmir war, the first of three, though there have been several other not-officially-a-war conflicts in and over the region, as well.Things only got more complicated over the next several decades; China seized the eastern part of the region in the 1950s, and while some Kashmiris have demanded independence, both India and Pakistan claim the region as totally their own, and point at historical markers that support their claim—some such markers based on fact, some on speculation or self-serving interpretations of history.What I'd like to talk about today is what looks to be a new, potentially serious buildup around Kashmir, following an attack at a popular tourist hotspot in the territory, and why some analysts are especially concerned about what India's government will decide to do, next.—Early in the afternoon of April 22, 2025, a group of tourists sightseeing in a town in the southern part of Kashmir called Pahalgam were open-fired on by militants. 26 people were killed and another 17 were injured, marking one of the worst attacks on mostly Indian civilians in decades.In 2019, Kashmir's semiautonomous governance was revoked by the Indian government, which in practice meant the Indian government took more complete control over the region, clamping down on certain freedoms and enabling more immigration of Indians into otherwise fairly Muslim-heavy Kashmir.It's also become more of a tourist destination since then, as India has moved more soldiers in to patrol Indian Kashmir's border with Pakistan Kashmir, and the nature of the landmass makes it a bit of a retreat from climate extremes; at times it's 30 or 40 degrees cooler, in Fahrenheit, than in New Delhi, so spendy people from the city bring their money to Kashmir to cool off, while also enjoying the natural settings of this less-developed, less-industrialized area.Reports from survivors indicate that the attackers took their time and seemed very confident, and that no Indian security forces were anywhere nearby; they walked person to person, asking them if they were Muslim and executing those who were not. Around 7,000 people were visiting the area as tourists before the attack, but most of them have now left, and it's unclear what kind of financial hit this will have on the region, but in the short-term it's expected to be pretty bad.In the wake of this attack, the Indian government claimed that it has identified two of the three suspected militants as Pakistani, but Pakistan has denied any involvement, and has called for a neutral probe into the matter, saying that it's willing to fully cooperate, seeks only peace and stability, and wants to see justice served.A previously unknown group calling itself the Kashmir Resistance has claimed responsibility for the attack, and Indian security forces have demolished the homes of at least five suspected militants in Kashmir in response, including one who they believe participated in this specific attack.The two governments have launched oppositional measures against each other, including Pakistan closing its airspace to Indian airlines and shutting down trade with its neighbor, and India shutting down a vital land crossing, revoking Pakistani visas, and suspending a 1960 treaty that regulates water-sharing along the Indus River and its tributaries—something that it's threatened to do, previously, and which could devastate Pakistan's agricultural sector and economy, as it basically regulates water that the country relies on for both human consumption and most of its crop irrigation; and for context, Pakistan's agricultural sector accounts for about a forth of its economy.So if India blocks this water source, Pakistan would be in a very bad situation, and the Pakistani government has said that any blockage of water by India would be considered an act of war. Over the past week, a Pakistani official accused the Indian government of suddenly releasing a large volume of water from a dam into a vital river, which made flooding in parts of Pakistan-held Kashmir a real possibility, but as of the day I'm recording this they haven't closed the taps, as Pakistan has worried.For its part, India wouldn't really suffer from walking away from this treaty, as it mostly favors Pakistan. It serves to help keep the peace along an at times chaotic border, but beyond that, it does very little for India, directly.So historically, the main purpose of maintaining this treaty, for India, has been related to its reputation: if it walked away from it, it would probably suffer a reputational hit with the international community, as it would be a pretty flagrantly self-serving move that only really served to harm Pakistan, its weaker arch-nemesis.Right now, though, geopolitics are scrambled to such a degree that there are concerns India might not only be wanting to make such moves, whatever the consequences, but it may also be hankering for a larger conflict—looking to sort out long-term issues during a period in which such sorting, such conflict, may cause less reputational damage than might otherwise be the case.Consider that the US government has spoken openly about wanting to take, by whatever means, Greenland, from the Danish, a long-time ally, and that it's maybe jokingly, but still alarmingly, said that Canada should join the US as the 51st state.These statements are almost certainly just braggadocio, but that the highest-rung people in the most powerful government on the planet would say such things publicly speaks volumes about the Wild West nature of today's global order.Many leaders seem to be acting like this is a moment in which the prior paradigm, and the post-WWII rules that moderated global behavior within that paradigm, are fraying or disappearing, the global police force represented by the US and its allies pulling inward, not caring, and in some cases even becoming something like bandits, grabbing what they can.Under such circumstances, if you're in a position of relative power that you couldn't fully leverage previously, for fear of upsetting that global police force and tarnishing your reputation within that system they maintained, might you leverage it while you can, taking whatever you can grab and weakening your worst perceived enemy, at a moment in which it seems like the getting is good?It's been argued that Russia's violation of Ukraine's sovereignty may have helped kick-off this new paradigm, but Israel's behavior in Gaza, the West Bank, and increasingly Syria, as well, are arguably even better examples of this changing dynamic.While the Democrats and Joe Biden were in the White House, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu seemed to be mostly playing ball, at least superficially, even when he very clearly wasn't—he did what he could to seem to be toeing rules-based-order lines, even when regularly stepping over them, especially in Gaza.But now, post-Trump's return to office, that line-toeing has almost entirely disappeared, and the Israeli government seems to be grabbing whatever they can, including large chunks of southwestern Syria, which was exposed by the fall of the Assad regime. The Israeli military launched a full aerial campaign against the Syrian army's infrastructure, declared a 1974 disengagement agreement with Syria to be void, and though it initially said it would hold the territory it has taken temporarily, it has more recently said it would hold it indefinitely—possibly permanently expanding its country's land mass at the expense of its neighbor, another sovereign nation, at a moment in which it felt it could get away with doing so.It's not clear that India has any ambitions on Pakistani territory, beyond what it holds in Kashmir, at least, but there's a chance it sees this moment the same way the Israeli government does: as a perhaps finite moment during which the previous state of things, the global rules-based-order, no longer applies, or doesn't apply as much, which suggests it could do some serious damage to its long-time rival and not suffer the consequences it would have, reputationally or otherwise, even half a year ago.And India's leader, Narendra Modi, is in some ways even better positioned than Israel's Netanyahu to launch such a campaign, in part because India is in such a favorable geopolitical position right now. As the US changes stance, largely away from Europe and opposing Russia and its allies, toward more fully sidling up to China in the Pacific, India represents a potential counterweight against Chinese influence in the region, where it has successfully made many of its neighbors reliant on its trade, markets, and other resources.Modi has reliably struck stances midway between US and Chinese spheres of influences, allowing it to do business with Russia, buying up a lot of cheap fuel that many other nations won't touch for fear of violating sanctions, while also doing business with the US, benefitting from a slew of manufacturers who are leaving China to try to avoid increasingly hefty US tariffs.If India were to spark a more concentrated conflict with Pakistan, then, perhaps aiming to hobble its economy, its military, and its capacity to sponsor proxies along its border with India, which periodically launch attacks, including in Kashmir—that might be something that's not just tolerated, but maybe even celebrated by entities like China and the US, because both want to continue doing their own destabilizing of their own perceived rivals, but also because both would prefer to have India on their side in future great power disagreements, and in any potential future large-scale future conflict.India is richer and more powerful than Pakistan in pretty much every way, but in addition to Pakistan's decently well-developed military apparatus, like India, it has nukes. So while there's a chance this could become a more conventional tit-for-tat, leading to limited scuffles and some artillery strikes on mostly military installations across their respective borders, there's always the potential for misunderstandings, missteps, and tit-for-tat escalations that could push the region into a nuclear conflict, which would be absolutely devastating in terms of human life, as this is one of the most densely populated parts of the world, but could also pull in neighbors and allies, while also making the use of nuclear weapons thinkable by others once more, after a long period of that fortunately not being the case.Show Noteshttps://www.france24.com/en/asia-pacific/20250427-indian-pakistani-troops-exchange-fire-for-third-night-in-disputed-kashmirhttps://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20250422-at-least-24-killed-in-kashmir-attack-on-tourists-indian-police-sourcehttps://www.france24.com/en/asia-pacific/20250424-india-will-identify-track-and-punish-kashmir-attack-perpetrators-modi-sayshttps://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/27/world/asia/india-pakistan-kashmir.htmlhttps://archive.is/20250426143222/https://www.reuters.com/world/india/india-pakistan-exchange-gunfire-2nd-day-ties-plummet-after-attack-2025-04-26/https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/24/world/asia/india-pakistan-indus-waters-treaty.htmlhttps://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/23/world/asia/kashmir-pahalgam-attack-victims.htmlhttps://apnews.com/article/india-pakistan-kashmir-attack-829911d3eae7cfe6738eda5c0c84d6aehttps://www.bbc.com/news/world-south-asia-11693674https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Partition_of_Indiahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kashmirhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kashmir_conflicthttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indo-Pakistani_war_of_1947%E2%80%931948 This is a public episode. 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#cuttheclutter A week since Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, top level huddles are underway in Delhi to calibrate India's response. PM Modi chaired a key meeting with the Defence Minister, NSA, CDS & Chiefs of the three Armed Forces on Tuesday. In Kashmir, India's security forces have reportedly ‘spotted' terrorists behind the attack. ThePrint Editor-In-Chief Shekhar Gupta discusses the key developments on this big story, with Defence Editor Snehesh Alex Philip, in Episode 1650 of #CutTheClutter. They also discuss how Pakistani terrorists, especially LeT have upped the communication battle in Jammu & Kashmir. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Produced By: Mahira Khan

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.Today is the 29th of April and here are today's headlines.The Jammu and Kashmir government has closed nearly 50 tourist destinations and trekking routes in the Valley following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam. Citing inadequate security, popular sites like Gurez Valley, Bangus, Verinag, Yusmarg, and Dodapathri are now off-limits to tourists. The decision comes after an attack last Tuesday left 25 tourists and one local dead. Authorities said the closures are temporary and based solely on tourist safety. Destinations with adequate security, including parts of Pahalgam and Gulmarg, remain open, though movement within them will be closely monitored.India lashed out at Pakistan at the UN over the recent Pahalgam attack, citing Defence Minister Khwaja Asif's public admission of supporting terror groups. Speaking at the launch of VoTAN, Ambassador Yojna Patel criticized Pakistan for using the UN platform for baseless propaganda. She pointed to Asif's TV confession as further evidence of Pakistan's role in fostering terrorism. Patel called Pakistan a “rogue state” that fuels global instability and urged the global community to stop turning a blind eye to its actions, especially in light of recent attacks targeting Indian civilians.Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge urged Prime Minister Modi to convene a special Parliament session to address the Pahalgam terror attack. In a letter, Kharge said the move would show united political resolve against terrorism. Meanwhile, ceasefire violations along the LoC continued for the fifth straight night, with Pakistan extending unprovoked fire from Kupwara and Baramulla to Poonch and Akhnoor. The Congress call and border flare-ups come amid heightened tensions with Pakistan, following the deadly Pahalgam attack that killed 26 people, including 25 tourists.The Supreme Court said there's nothing inherently wrong with a country using spyware for national security, but the key issue is against whom it's used. Justice Surya Kant made the remark while hearing petitions linked to the 2021 Pegasus spyware controversy. Petitioners alleged the Israeli-made surveillance tool was used on journalists, politicians, and activists. Senior Advocate Dinesh Dwivedi argued that even if phones weren't hacked, the government's possession of such spyware raises serious concerns. The case continues to raise critical questions about privacy and the limits of state surveillance in a democracy.Prime Minister Mark Carney's Liberal Party won Canada's federal election but fell short of a clear majority, needing 172 of 343 seats. The campaign, shadowed by U.S. President Donald Trump's annexation remarks and trade tension, ended with Carney needing coalition support to govern. India's PM Narendra Modi congratulated Carney on X, reaffirming strong ties rooted in democracy and rule of law. With a minority mandate, Carney faces challenges in pushing reforms through Parliament, setting the stage for complex political negotiations in the days ahead.That's all for today. This was the CatchUp on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

This is the Catchup on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I'm Flora Swain.Today is the 28th of April and here are today's headlines.Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire for the fourth time on Sunday night, resorting to "unprovoked" firing across the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara and Poonch districts. According to Defence PRO Lieutenant Colonel Suneel Bartwal, the firing occurred between April 27-28, 2025, initiated by Pakistan Army posts. Indian troops responded promptly and effectively. Thankfully, there were no casualties, and further details are being verified. The firing follows a recent Brigade Commander meeting on April 10, highlighting ongoing tensions along the LoC.The Indian government has banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, including major outlets like Dawn News and Geo News, for spreading provocative and misleading content following the Pahalgam terror attack. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) recommended the ban after the attack, which claimed 26 lives. These channels, with a collective 63.08 million followers, were found disseminating false narratives against India. Additionally, India strongly protested the BBC India referring to terrorists as "militants," signaling heightened scrutiny of media reporting amid rising tensions.In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the Jammu and Kashmir assembly convened a special session, adopting a resolution condemning attempts to disrupt communal harmony. Moved by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, the three-page resolution emphasized defeating those aiming to destabilize the region. It called the attack a direct assault on Kashmiriyat, India's constitutional values, and national unity. The resolution also cautioned the media and society against being manipulated by those inflaming public emotions through inflammatory rhetoric.Jammu & Kashmir CM Condemns Pahalgam Terror AttackJammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people on April 22. In a heartfelt speech during the special session of the assembly, Abdullah expressed deep regret, calling the attack the largest in Baisaran in 21 years. He acknowledged his failure to protect the tourists and apologized to the victims' families. “As the host, it was my responsibility to ensure their safety, and I couldn't,” he said, expressing sorrow for the tragic loss of lives in his region.The United States has expressed concern over escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22. In a statement, a US State Department spokesperson urged both nations to work toward a “responsible solution” to the evolving situation. The attack, claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), linked to Pakistan's Lashkar-e-Taiba, killed 26 people and wounded several others. While condemning the attack, the US affirmed solidarity with India but refrained from directly criticizing Pakistan, maintaining diplomatic engagement with both governments.That's all for today. This was the CatchUp on 3 Things by The Indian Express.

On April 22, 2025, 26 people were killed in a dastardly attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. In this episode of Worldview with Swasti, Dr. Swasti Rao, consulting editor and foreign policy expert, discusses with Lt Gen Raj Shukla (retd), former Army Commander and member of the UPSC, to examine the aftermath, the patterns of provocation by Pakistan, and the strategic implications of China's growing assertiveness. They discuss why India was unprepared, how the Balakot effect has faded, and why our doctrine must evolve to regain escalatory dominance. #kashmir #kashmirterrorattack #pahalgam #modi #indianarmy #pakistan #jammuandkashmir --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Produced By: Mahira Khan

This is the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I am Ichha SHarmaToday is the 25 th of April and here are the headlinesAt least 25 tourists and a Valley resident were shot dead on Tuesday at a meadow near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir in the deadliest terror attack on civilians in the country since the Mumbai 26/11 shootings. On Wednesday, India put on hold the Indus Waters Treaty, downgraded diplomatic relations with Pakistan, expelled diplomats and top defence officials from the Pakistan High Commission in Delhi, cancelled all visas granted to Pakistan nationals and directed them to leave the country in 48 hours, and shut the Attari-Wagah border after Resistance Front (TRF) is an offshoot of the Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Meanwhile, yesterday Islamabad said it “shall exercise the right to hold all bilateral agreements with India, including but not limited to the Simla Agreement, in abeyance.” The reaction from Pakistan came after the country's Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chaired a meeting of the National Security Committee. 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 on Tuesday 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.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.After the recent Supreme Court order which annulled the appointments of over 25,000 West Bengal school staff but said that “untainted” teachers could remain in service until 31st of December this year, confusion had remained as to who the “untainted” teachers are. Now, a district-wise list of “untainted” teachers of Classes IX-X and XI-XII has reached the offices of District Inspectors (DIs) of schools. A verification process has begun. The SC had found that the 2016 recruitment process by the SSC was “tainted”. School headmasters have been asked to submit a list of their teachers' names, designations, subjects they teach, transfer histories, and confirmations that the names are in the “untainted” list.A wildfire in New Jersey has forced residents to evacuate the area and shut down a stretch of a major highway on Tuesday as the wildfire grew to more than 3,200 acres, officials said. One of the busiest highways in New Jersey, the Garden State Parkway, saw closures due to the spread of wildfire and the stretch between Barnegat and Lacey townships was closed and the traffic was diverted, Associated Press reported. According to New Jersey Forest Fire Service, over 3,000 residents have been evacuated from the area of the Jones Road Fire in Ocean County and about 1,320 structures remain threatened. The fire service added that 5% of the wildfire has been contained till now.

First, we talk to The Indian Express' Deeptiman Tiwary about the Pahalgam terrorist attack and India's strict measures in response to it. He also shares the reaction that has been received from Pakistan and how all this will impact the ties between the two nations.Next, we talk to The Indian Express' Amitabh Sinha about the Himalayan High Altitude Atmospheric and Climate Research Centre set up by the Central University of Jammu, in collaboration with the Ministry of Earth Sciences, to study how clouds form and turn into rain. (12:04)And lastly, we talk about a series of devastating air attacks launched by Russia on Ukraine and US President Trump's reaction to it. (26:10)Produced and Hosted by Niharika Nanda and Ichha SharmaEdited and mixed by Suresh Pawar

This is the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I am Ichha SHarmaToday is the 24 th of APril and here are the headlinesA day after India took several diplomatic measures against Pakistan over the Pahalgam terror attack, Islamabad said today it “shall exercise the right to hold all bilateral agreements with India, including but not limited to the Simla Agreement, in abeyance.” On Wednesday, India put on hold the Indus Waters Treaty, downgraded diplomatic relations with Pakistan, expelled diplomats and top defence officials from the Pakistan High Commission in Delhi, cancelled all visas granted to Pakistan nationals and directed them to leave the country in 48 hours, and shut the Attari-Wagah border. The reaction from Pakistan came after the country's Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chaired a meeting of the National Security Committee.Months before elections in Bihar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today quickly switched to English in the middle of his speech in Madhubani to promise stringent action against the terrorists and the “backers” involved in the attack on tourists in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22. The PM's switch to English in a speech largely focused on the state was meant to address the world, promising that the government would “identify, trace and punish every terrorist and their backers”, and thanking all nations who stood with India at this time of grief. Modi also made a pitch for national integration beyond linguistic boundaries — the linguistic divide has been in the news for some time now — underlining that those who lost their lives spoke different Indian languages and belonged to different states and that the nation stood firm with all of them.Following a threat video by the Hindu Raksha Dal demanding that Kashmiri Muslims leave Uttarakhand on Wednesday, Dehradun police say they have amped up security and taken down 25 “inciting posts” from social media. A video has gone viral on social media in which Lalit Sharma, a Hindu Raksha Dal leader, says, “The incident in Pahalgam has hurt us… If we see any Kashmiri Muslim in the state after 10 am tomorrow, we will give them the right treatment.”A student at Doon PG College told The Indian Express that at least five students have left for the airport.After the recent Supreme Court order which annulled the appointments of over 25,000 West Bengal school staff but said that “untainted” teachers could remain in service until 31st of December this year, confusion had remained as to who the “untainted” teachers are. Now, a district-wise list of “untainted” teachers of Classes IX-X and XI-XII has reached the offices of District Inspectors (DIs) of schools. A verification process has begun. The SC had found that the 2016 recruitment process by the SSC was “tainted”. School headmasters have been asked to submit a list of their teachers' names, designations, subjects they teach, transfer histories, and confirmations that the names are in the “untainted” list.US President Donald Trump responded today to the overnight Russian attacks on Ukraine's Kyiv, saying he is “not happy,” and asked President Vladimir Putin to ‘stop'. Trump wrote in a social media post quote “I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV. Not necessary, and very bad timing,” unquote,  a day after expressing frustration that it was Ukraine's leader who was hampering peace talks on ending Russia's war in Ukraine. Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraine does not “see strong pressure on Russia now” nor new sanctions against Moscow, despite its unwillingness to progress the talks.

Dozens have been killed after suspected militants opened fire at tourists in India's Jammu and Kashmir territory. Elon Musk says he will significantly cut back the time he devotes to the Trump administration and spend more time running his companies after Tesla net profits dropped 71% in Q1. Plus, the challenges facing America's steel country and the major overhaul proposed for the U.S. State Department. Find our recommended read on Brazil's new super-size cocoa farms here. Sign up for the Reuters Econ World newsletter here. Find the latest podcast episode here. Visit the Thomson Reuters Privacy Statement for information on our privacy and data protection practices. You may also visit megaphone.fm/adchoices to opt out of targeted advertising. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is the Catch Up on 3 Things by The Indian Express and I am Ichha SHarmaIt is the 23rd of April and here are today's headlines.Expressing anguish over the Pahalgam terror attack that killed at least 26 people, Union Minister Amit Shah on X said, quote “Bharat will not bend to terror. The culprits of this dastardly terror attack will not be spared. With a heavy heart, pay last respects to the deceased.” unquote. Shah also met the survivors and assured them that the perpetrators of the dastardly act would be brought to justice. Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir government announced Rs 10 lakh ex gratia for each deceased's family; Rs 2 lakh for the seriously injured and Rs 1 lakh for injured victims. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to hold a key meeting with the Cabinet Committee on Security in the first half of the day, wherein India will formulate its response and defence strategy.Meanwhile, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khwaja Asif claimed today that they have nothing to do with the incident in which at least 25 tourists were killed and several others were injured. Indian officials, however, are not convinced by Pakistan's denial since the initial probe has suggested the presence of foreigners as part of the group of militants who opened fire at the civilians. At least 25 tourists and a Valley resident were shot dead Tuesday at a meadow near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir in the deadliest terror attack on civilians in the country since the Mumbai 26/11 shootings. Asif told a Pakistan TV channel about the Pahalgam attack. “We have absolutely nothing to do with it. We reject terrorism in all its forms and everywhere.” The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation last week demolished most of the Digambar Jain temple in Vile Parle in the city's western suburbs, triggering outrage and protests among members of the community, as well as politicians across parties. Under pressure, the civic administration transferred the assistant municipal commissioner in charge of the BMC's K/East ward office, which had carried out the demolition. Civic and court records accessed and evaluated by The Indian Express show that the first notice for demolishing the allegedly illegal structure was issued to the temple trust back in 2005. Since then, the BMC made nine attempts to raze the alleged illegal structure – and finally carried out the action on April 16.Amid its ongoing crusade against drugs, Punjab has become the first state in the country to ban energy drinks in and around schools to keep the children away from caffeine addiction. A notification to this effect was issued by the government on Tuesday, banning the sale of energy drinks in school canteens and outside school premises. The notification, issued by Dilraj Singh Sandhawalia, Commissioner of Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Punjab, states that it is “just and necessary” to prohibit the consumption of caffeinated energy drinks by children. The notification says that energy drinks are heavily marketed to children and young adults and others and manufacturers compare the effects of the drinks to the use of drugs like cocaine.A wildfire in New Jersey has forced residents to evacuate the area and shut down a stretch of a major highway on Tuesday as the wildfire grew to more than 3,200 acres, officials said. One of the busiest highways in New Jersey, the Garden State Parkway, saw closures due to the spread of wildfire and the stretch between Barnegat and Lacey townships was closed and the traffic was diverted, Associated Press reported. According to New Jersey Forest Fire Service, over 3,000 residents have been evacuated from the area of the Jones Road Fire in Ocean County and about 1,320 structures remain threatened. The fire service added that 5% of the wildfire has been contained till now.This was the Catch Up on 3 Things by The dian Express