Canada’s decision to end the 18-month extension of postgraduate work permits (PGWPs) has left thousands of international students, many from India, facing uncertainty. Reports suggest that 130,000 are at risk of deportation by 2025.

What’s Trudeau’s rationale? Why take a step that will anger many Indian-origin Canadians, particularly the Sikh community, who have strongly supported him?

As inflation and housing pressures push liberal voters toward the Conservatives, is this shift a sign that liberal ideology is waning in Canada?

In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Nitin Rawat

Since Sheikh Hasina’s ouster and her taking refuge in India, anti-India sentiment has been peaking in Bangladesh.

Recently BNP leader Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir demanded Hasina’s extradition, warning that her continued presence in India could severely damage Indo-Bangla relations. With Mohammed Yunus as interim leader and a BNP government likely on the horizon, the call for Hasina’s return is intensifying. So, will India bow to this demand or hold its ground?

And can Bangladesh, under BNP leadership, if elected to power, afford a strained relationship with its neighbour? Will historical ties hold firm, or will this be a new crisis for India-Bangladesh relations?

In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Switzerland hosted a two-day high-level Peace Summit for Ukraine last weekend, but Russia did not participate, dismissing it as a “waste of time.”

So, can this peace summit meaningfully contribute to ending the war and ensuring regional peace without involving both parties in dialogue, given their differing views on 'peace'?

Interestingly, many countries that once proposed peace plans—such as Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Indonesia, Brazil (which remained an observer), and China (which declined to participate)—dissociated from the summit's outcome document.

Why did these countries, once advocates for peace plans, refuse to participate?

In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Have citizens' lives gone from bad to worse? Is the country staring at a famine come winter? In this episode we revisit the war days assessing how has Afghanistan fared under the Taliban rule. Listen up!

Why was the visit significant? Did this visit have anything to do with the welfare of the Taiwanese people? Or has the island nation become a pawn in the larger scheme of things? We discuss this in Geeta’s World! Tune in!

What has given Truss the edge over Sunak? How has Sunak played up the immigrant factor? And what will be the major challenges for the new UK PM in the coming few years? We discuss this in Geeta’s World! Tune in!

How have European states, in recent years, dealt with climate change debates? Do European states have more robust mechanisms such as laws to protect the environment, in place than India? Tune in!

What does the future of Sri Lanka entail? What are the reasons behind the turmoil that the country is facing? Is there a lesson to be learnt by the South Asian governments as well? Listen up!

Narendra Modi has secured a third term as India’s Prime Minister. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance won 293 seats, although, unlike the 2019 elections, the BJP itself did not achieve a majority.

As Modi 3.0 begins, PM Modi has promised a “new chapter of big decisions” for India. But, considering the BJP is not a party with a brute majority anymore and relies on an NDA coalition instead, the scope of these decisions might be limited. Will major foreign policy decisions be hindered? 

And will Modi 3.0 tweak India’s foreign policy at a time when foreign media is reporting about the state of Indian democracy and calling press freedom, political freedom and human rights into question?

In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Mexico has elected Claudia Sheinbaum, a climate scientist and former mayor of Mexico City, as its new president, marking a significant step for gender parity.

Concerns exist that Sheinbaum is a handpicked successor of her predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, better known as AMLO, and may be captive to his agenda. Critics argue she lacks charisma, and despite not being on the ballot, AMLO's influence loomed large during the election. So, have Mexicans placed more faith in the party than in Claudia? Is the mandate more for the left party?

Will Sheinbaum's governance differ? Although intellectually a nationalist, her campaign emphasised policy continuity and protecting AMLO's legacy over her own proposals.

In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

On May 19, Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and several other officials were killed in a helicopter crash in East Azerbaijan province.

Raisi's death has sparked numerous speculations and conspiracy theories. Was it an accident? Was there foul play? Is Israel involved, or is it due to Iran's struggle with US sanctions that prevents it from obtaining necessary improved aircraft parts? What do we know so far?

After years of negotiations, India and Iran signed a ten-year contract for the Iranian Chabahar Port. India and Iran have shared historical and cultural ties, and bilateral trade between the two nations improved after Raisi became President in 2021. Although the supreme leader made significant decisions, Raisi's presidency saw enhanced relations between the two. So, will this work in a continuum with a new president?

In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

After a two-year gap, China has regained its position as India’s largest trading partner, surpassing the United States. According to the latest GTRI report, from FY19 to FY24, while trade with the US grew, increasing India's trade surplus, India's exports to China slightly decreased, and Chinese exports to India surged by almost 45%.

Does this mean the trade balance heavily favours China, with India facing a trade deficit of over $85 billion?

This trade growth persists despite India's trade and investment restrictions on China since the 2020 Galwan clashes. Indian politicians often discuss reducing reliance on Chinese imports and boosting domestic manufacturing. So, why can't India stop trading with China?

In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

In Sudan, amidst enduring civil conflict, desperation has driven people to consume dirt for sustenance as the nation teeters on the brink of famine.

Why does Sudan's civil strife persist despite over a year passing since its outbreak? Why has resolution remained elusive?

Despite international efforts, including ceasefire agreements and sanctions, humanitarian assistance has reached only 16 per cent of people who need it. Has the international community's response adequately addressed the power struggle at play?

In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

The anti-Israel protests, originating at Columbia University in the US, are gaining momentum globally on university campuses. The police have intervened violently, with videos emerging from different states showing hundreds of students – and even faculty members – being forcefully arrested.

Despite the harsh response, the students' resolve remains unshaken. They continue to pitch tents and stand their ground. So, why are students persisting, and what are their demands?

Large student movements have influenced public opinion and policy throughout American history, like the Anti-Apartheid Movement in the 1980s. So, can these protests spark a significant foreign policy shift in the country?

In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Pro-China Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu's People's National Congress party has secured a two-thirds majority in the Majlis. With this absolute parliamentary dominance, what previously obstructed policies can the current government push through?

But is Muizzu's win really a vote against India, given his vocal support for it, or are there other factors that played out?

And why did the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) lose so badly? How did Maldivians lose trust in the MDP?

In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

After the Katchatheevu Island controversy, now Gwadar Port, in Pakistan's Balochistan province, has become a focal point in India's upcoming general elections. The BJP has accused the then PM Jawaharlal nehru of rejecting the Gwadar port , which the Sultan of Oman had apparently offered to India in 1956.

If it's true, what would have happened if Nehru hadn't rejected the offer? What could have changed?

Despite security challenges and unrest in Balochistan, China remains invested in Pakistan's BRI. What's the incentive for China to continue in Pakistan?

Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Following the "India Out" campaign in the Maldives, a similar movement has emerged in Bangladesh, spearheaded by the Bangladeshi diaspora and opposition factions. These factions are advocating for the boycott of Indian products.

Despite originating after the January elections, why did this anti-India movement gain traction only recently? Was it because the Awami League government initially didn't appear overly concerned about this campaign?

Given that the BNP is not in power in Bangladesh, what are the prospects for the sustainability of this campaign? And should India be wary of this and make attempts to salvage the situation?

Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

 

The Taliban's new 35-article morality law restricts women from speaking, singing, or even making eye contact in public, requiring them to cover their bodies completely. This is part of a broader push to enforce their strict interpretation of Islamic principles.

Western countries have linked sanctions relief to restoring women's rights, but the Taliban have only increased restrictions, dismissing this as an internal matter. Despite sanctions, reports suggest the Taliban are already getting foreign aid.

If sanctions aren't working, what should the international community do to pressure the Taliban to uphold human rights?

Has India, as a neighbouring country and a leading voice of the global south, done enough to voice concerns?

In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Following the "India Out" campaign in the Maldives, a similar movement has emerged in Bangladesh, spearheaded by the Bangladeshi diaspora and opposition factions. These factions are advocating for the boycott of Indian products.

Despite originating after the January elections, why did this anti-India movement gain traction only recently? Was it because the Awami League government initially didn't appear overly concerned about this campaign?

Given that the BNP is not in power in Bangladesh, what are the prospects for the sustainability of this campaign? And should India be wary of this and make attempts to salvage the situation?

Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

 

On March 22, Moscow witnessed the deadliest terror attack in decades when four gunmen stormed the Crocus City Hall and began firing on a crowd attending a music concert. They started shooting and attacking people with knives before blazing the place. Russian authorities said 137 people were killed and more than 100 injured.

Hours after the attack, the Islamic State–Khorasan Province (IS–KP) claimed responsibility. But why would ISKP target Russia?

And some Russian commentators find it odd that ISIS terrorists could penetrate Moscow, given the strict surveillance by intelligence agencies. They question how the attackers could terrorise a crowd for an hour and a half and then escape quickly to the heavily militarised border with Ukraine, suggesting theories that the attack might have been orchestrated within Russia. Can this be deduced?

Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Sweden has officially become the 32nd member of NATO, completing its accession process in Washington. It took place two years after Sweden had applied to join the military alliance following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

But the two Nordic states, Finland and Sweden have long maintained military neutrality. So, why did Sweden officially move away from its non-alignment and neutrality stance to NATO now?

And Sweden had applied in May 2022. Why did Erdogan take  so long, around two years, to finally accept Sweden’s NATO’s bid?

Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Iranian conservatives have secured a majority in recent elections, but many incumbents were disqualified, leaving only loyalist candidates vetted by the Guardian Council to participate. With predictable outcomes and key figures like former President Rouhani disqualified from standing again for the Assembly of Experts, are these elections then a farce?

Ali Khamenei's second son, Mojtaba Khamenei, is expected to succeed as Iran's supreme leader. Several elite reformists believe he could be the next radical moderniser. Will he?

Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Donald Trump inches closer to securing the Republican presidential nomination after a decisive win over Nikki Haley in South Carolina.

But why is it that the Republicans, especially those within the party who opposed his brand of divisive politics, were never able to find a single rival? Why is it that the Republicans couldn't move on from Trump?

Many younger Democrat voters are angry at Biden, and some Arab and Muslim Americans say they won't vote for Biden in 2024 because of his stance on the Israel-Hamas war. So, could this influence Biden's presidential bid?

Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

The Pakistan election has come as quite a shocker for many, with many stating this is a wake-up call for the establishment. But is the military really out of the game?

And who exactly will make the government? We are looking at a coalition between the PML-N and PPP, but both parties are divided as to who will become the prime minister: Nawaz Sharif or Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. Who has a more substantial hand?

Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Pakistan's upcoming February 8 elections are marred by manipulation concerns, with experts dubbing them a sham. The military seeks to sideline Imran Khan's PTI party, favouring former PM Nawaz Sharif for the win. So, is this the same playbook by the army, and the outcome won't make a difference?

And there are multiple crises that Pakistan is reeling under, including economic instability and security tensions with neighbouring countries. So, will voters consider these pressing issues at the polls?

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

The Rishi Sunak government has signed a new treaty with Rwanda and proposed new laws declaring that Rwanda is a safe country. The bill is currently being discussed in the house of lords, after the Supreme Court had earlier deemed the Rwanda plan illegal.

Ironically, at the time when the UK government planned to send illegal immigrants to Rwanda, it granted refugee status to four Rwandans in the UK due to persecution fears. Won’t this revelation impact the migration bill's chances of becoming a reality?

And what happens if the migration bill becomes a reality?

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Last week witnessed an unexpected development as Iran and Pakistan engaged in cross-border airstrikes, each claiming to target Baluch insurgent hideouts.

This could have easily been an incident where both Iran and Pakistan could have partnered together to eliminate Baloch separatists. Instead, they chose to launch missiles at each other. What does this tell us?

Experts find these attacks seemingly feckless, given that on the same day as Iran attacked Pak, joint naval operations were underway, and Iran’s foreign minister met with Pakistan’s caretaker prime minister at the World Economic Forum. Is there a possibility that these strikes were mere optics, and that there's something bigger at play between Iran and Pakistan?

Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Nitin Rawat

Diplomatic tensions between India and Maldives ignited on January 4 when PM Modi shared tourism-promoting images from his Lakshadweep islands’ visit. This triggered a social media war involving Maldivian officials and Indian users. 

But, there was no direct mention of Maldives by PM Modi or other Indian officials. So, what sparked this anger?

And is boycotting Maldives really a response to this diplomatic tension?

Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

In the lead-up to the US election, the Democrats are hosting their National Convention—a high-energy event often seen as a show of strength, where supporters rally behind their nominee and make its formal announcement. The convention kicked off yesterday in Chicago and is expected to be a significant moment in Kamala Harris’ campaign.

But amidst the political fervour, Kamala Harris faces pressure from uncommitted delegates demanding a more progressive stance on Israel, including a Gaza ceasefire. Will this anti-war movement overshadow Harris’s cause?

Given that both Democrats and Republicans seem to be adopting similar economic policies, how different will Kamala Harris's agenda at the Democratic Convention really be from Trump’s? Have Republicans already set the narrative on the economy, leaving Harris with little room to manoeuvre?

In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

In 2023, the world faced significant global risks and uncertainties.

In South Asia, elections, political unrest, and economic uncertainties marked the year. This year too, the region mostly looks at elections and campaigning in countries such as Bangladesh, Pakistan and India. Considering the potential for a change in power, do we see the region’s foreign policy and power dynamics changing?

Meanwhile, as Russia's war in Ukraine enters its third year, Europe grapples with economic challenges and heightened inflation. The war has exposed Europe’s vulnerable economic spots – mainly its energy dependency. So, can we say that the once-dominant financial giant that was Europe, is losing ground, and is this shift likely to endure?

Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

In an effort to mediate in the Gaza war, Egypt has put forward a peace proposal to Israel, Hamas, the United States, and the European governments. The proposal includes a ceasefire, a phased hostage release and the creation of a Palestinian government of experts who would administer the Gaza Strip and occupied West Bank.

But what's the likeability of the proposal being accepted? Because Netanyahu remains stern, he wants to eradicate Hamas, and this peace accord will mean he will have to pull back from his mission?

And the other crucial point is the creation of a Palestinian government of experts who would administer the Gaza Strip and occupied West Bank. But, the question being, who will this technocratic government be? Who will decide and make the call?

Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Bangladesh gears up for its 12th general elections on January 7, but there are concerns of the elections being lopsided.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is expected to be seeking a record fourth-term in office, but major opposition parties such as the BNP are opting to boycott, with discussions about reinstating a caretaker government for elections.

But many critics feel that the return to the caretaker government will be counterproductive in protecting democratic institutions in Bangladesh and might hinder the progress of the country. So will going back to a caretaker government actually help the opposition?

And if Sheikh Hasina secures a fourth term, what changes can be expected in her foreign policy, particularly in engagements with China and the US?

Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

The U.S. Department of Justice has indicted a senior Indian government intelligence official for allegedly plotting the assassination of U.S. citizen Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil.

But the question is: To what extent will the U.S. pursue this case, given their decision not to disclose the identity of the Indian official? Does it mean they don't want to risk its relations with India?

And, considering that Khalistan is largely perceived as a romanticized sentiment in India, with minimal real threats in the internal landscape, why would India jeopardise crucial geopolitical relationships by allegedly plotting such assassinations on international soil?

Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Nitin Rawat

Nearly 1,00,000 delegates from 198 countries are participating in the global conference in Dubai for COP28, which commenced on Thursday and will run through December 12.

Delegates at COP28 in Dubai established a new fund to aid developing nations in coping with climate-induced damages. So far $660m from 15 developed countries and the host, UAE has been pledged. But is this enough?

And as per Oxfam's 2022 report, wealthy nations may fall short by $75 billion in fulfilling the $100 billion annual pledge for climate finance. With the transition to renewable energy requiring trillions by 2030 and escalating losses from global warming, where will this massive funding come from?

But to really walk the talk, is always the challenge. Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss what challenges await in fighting the climate war and how and what way the COP 28 can contribute.

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Geert Wilders, an anti-Islam populist, won a significant victory in the Dutch election with his Party for Freedom (PVV) emerging as the single largest party with 37 seats in the 150-menber lower house.

Despite the win, he lacks a majority and he says that he must negotiate with other parties to reach the required 76 seats. But several parties such as the Labor-Green alliance have rejected collaboration opposing his anti-migration and euro-sceptic stance. So, how much of a compromise is he willing to make?

And did toning down his hardline Islamophobic rhetoric contribute to his victory?

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Distinguished delegations from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and Palestine, alongside Indonesia's foreign minister, convened in Beijing for a two-day middle east summit hosted by the Chinese government on November 20

But is there a reason why an important and significant player like Iran gave it a miss?

And despite attempts, which include threats from Iran or Hezbollah, and persistent diplomatic efforts from the United States, and Arab countries such as Saudi Arabia, the Israeli aggression in the region continues unabated. So what more can China offer? Can they add any skin in the game?

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Nitin Rawat

Maldives’s president Mohamed Muizzu has decided to send Indian troops out of the country, while pledging to safeguard the Maldives' independence and sovereignty.

So how will this decision impact India-Maldives relations? Should India be concerned?

And is it because the Maldivian opposition and its people have actually seen more tangible gains in terms of growth and development from Chinese assistance, that they’ve now voted for a pro-China President? And has India lost a key moment here and is now playing catch-up with China?

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Nitin Rawat

In his first ever speech following the Israel-Hamas conflict, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah openly challenged Israel and the United States. He emphasized Hezbollah's readiness and lack of fear towards U.S. warships.

But why now? Why did the Hezbollah leader wait until now to issue a response to the recent month's devastating attacks?

And reports suggest that Iran does not want regional war, and even the Hezbollah leader did not declare all-out war on Israel, at least not at this moment. So, why this reluctance?

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Nitin Rawat

At the UN General Assembly, India chose not to vote on a resolution promoting an immediate humanitarian truce between Israel and Hamas.

Was it a clever diplomatic move on India's part, considering they don't want to ruffle feathers with Israel and the United States?

On the one hand, the resolution seeks to prevent further escalation of the conflict and increase humanitarian aid for Gaza, while on the other, the Israelis are intensifying their attack. What purpose does the resolution even serve?

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Bangladesh is facing unrest, with ensuring peace being the foremost challenge. While it was expected that violence would cease after Sheikh Hasina's resignation, the situation has worsened, particularly with escalating atrocities against Bangladeshi Hindus.

Why is the caretaker government under Mohammed Yunus letting people run amok and not ensuring communal harmony?

Before her exit, Sheikh Hasina claimed that "conspiracies" were being plotted to topple her government. She alleged that the US intended to acquire St Martin's Island to build a military base in exchange for the BNP's electoral victory.

Is it true that this island influenced how the US sought to steer Bangladesh's political landscape? Given that both the US and China believe the BNP would align more closely with them, which superpower is getting its calculations wrong?

In this episode of Geeta's World, our host, Anna Priyadarshini, and the foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network, Geeta Mohan, discuss!

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Nearly a week has passed since the Israeli military ordered the evacuation of northern Gaza's civilians to the southern region in preparation for a potential ground offensive. However, the invasion has been postponed.

Doesn't this delay seem like a ploy for political gains, because we know Netanyahu is being able to avoid immense domestic scrutiny from his own electorate because of this war?

And US efforts to persuade Saudi Arabia to condemn Hamas have proven unsuccessful. Undeterred by Middle eastern rage, Biden's visit to Israel solidified his support for the country. So now, can the US risk upsetting the Arab world, or is this more about pride and hubris?

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Hamas launched a major attack and fired more than 5,000 rockets from the Gaza Strip toward Israel, resulting in the deadliest violence in Israel since the Yom Kippur war. 

And the global response varies, with some arguing that it was long overdue, and it's a response expected from the Palestinian people who have endured Israeli settler colonial rule and occupation for decades, while others emphasizing Israel's right to self-defense.  How should one perceive this?

And the timing of this assault appears to be intricately linked to the broader regional context, including the ongoing US-brokered normalization efforts between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Could this be the reason?

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Revisit our previous coverage here: https://podcasts.indiatoday.in...&-history/geetas-world/al-aqsa-mosque-violence-israels-domestic-tensions-likely-to-translate-into-aggression-towards-palestinians-geetas-world-ep-39-541184-2023-04-11

https://podcasts.indiatoday.in...&-history/geetas-world/netanyahu-returns-israel-pm-palestine-may-suffer-more-who-was-original-aggressor-geetas-world-ep-24-489363-2022-12-27

Last week, as the world's attention remained fixated on the diplomatic row with Canada, a significant and alarming development unfolded in the Caucasus when Thousands of ethnic Armenians fled from Nagorno-Karabakh following the region's surrender to Azerbaijan on September 20th. 

This region is home to a majority of approximately 120,000 ethnic Armenians. 

What transpired was the resurgence of a long-standing conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The Lachin Corridor, a vital road, serves as the sole connection between the Republic of Armenia and the population of Nagorno-Karabakh. This corridor plays a crucial role in supplying essential goods, and residents in Nagorno-Karabakh have reported severe shortages of basic necessities like food and medication in recent months.

Meanwhile, Azerbaijan has accused Armenia of using this corridor to transport military supplies, a claim strongly denied by Armenia. Baku, Azerbaijan’s capital, has also asserted that it offered food and aid through an alternate route, but Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh refused to accept it.

Only recently, Azeri forces attacked Stepanakert, forcing the separatists to hand over full control to Baku. The conflict still claimed many lives, enabled mass displacement and triggered turmoil across the wider region. And another major humanitarian crisis is looming on the horizon.

Given these unfolding events, Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta delve into the core of this conflict. They seek to understand why this war has resurfaced, explore the underlying reasons, examine the roles of Russia and the United States in this crisis, and assess the global implications of the refugee crisis that has arisen as a result.

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Canada's prime minister Justin Trudeau is yet to release any specific evidence tying India to the killing, which if proven would constitute a violation of “Canadian sovereignty” and “international rule of law”.

How probable will this evidence then be, which in a way will also have Canada implicated in this violation? 

An unnamed ally in the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, the United States, allegedly provided intelligence leading to allegations against India. So if the US is indeed involved, how will it affect India-US relations?

Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World.

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

An investigative report by The Intercept reveals that the U.S. aided Pakistan in securing IMF relief in exchange for arms sent to Ukraine during the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

But why did the US specifically choose Pakistan to get the munitions? 

And what does this reveal about the US’s strategic interests in the region and its willingness to engage in covert diplomacy at a time when it's also cozying up with India? Will this impact U.S. foreign policy in South Asia?

Our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss in this episode of Geeta's World.

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Read Intercept's report here: https://theintercept.com/2023/09/17/pakistan-ukraine-arms-imf/

Despite India's softened language regarding the Ukraine conflict in the Delhi declaration, both China and the US have hailed India's G20 summit as a 'success' and a 'positive signal.' How did India achieve unanimous consensus?

At the G20 summit, a mega connectivity corridor, the IMEC or the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, was  unveiled. It is seen as a response to countering China's Belt and Road Initiative. But there are accusations that China’s Belt and Road is a broad “debt trap” designed to take control of local infrastructure. How does the IMEC differ?

In this episode, our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss India's week in the diplomatic sun.

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

As India eagerly prepares to host the G20 summit this week, the notable absence of key leaders like Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin has sparked intrigue and speculation regarding China's motivations for not attending. What could be its reason?

G20 is a great spectacle, but the preparations for it have resulted in people’s displacement, with the poor fearing they are being erased. Shouldn't Delhi be able to accommodate events of this magnitude, while not causing these kinds of inconveniences to citizens? 

Also, regarding China and Russia giving the summit a miss, Indian official sources, in its background brief, have said that “these dropouts do not reflect anything about the host country”. Is this assertion valid?

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Nitin Rawat

The 15th BRICS summit, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, kicked off today in Johannesburg, South Africa. The summit spans three days, culminating on August 24. Reverberating with significance, this summit emerges as a beacon of optimism, particularly in the aftermath of the Ukrainian conflict.

In this episode, our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss the summit's importance, its implications for India, and other crucial facets that define BRICS' role in India's contemporary geo-economic and geopolitical strategy. What does BRICS bring to the table? This summit is of many firsts. This is the first in-person summit since the COVID-19 pandemic and it's the first in-person meeting since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Is there potential for BRICS, as a collective forum, to contribute positively to the ongoing peace efforts pertaining to Russia's war in Ukraine?

And how will the negotiation over letting in more countries play out since it seems inevitable that the BRICS would soon become an instrument of Chinese global diplomacy will the BRICS?

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Nitin Rawat

It’s strange that we're sitting here on our Independence Day, in a free and democratic country that is India, to talk about how on the same date, 15th August, a couple of years back, millions of Afghans lost their freedom at the hands of the Taliban.  Two years ago, Afghanistan saw a return of an oppressive regime which believes in stripping women of all their rights and locking them up in their homes. And yet, the underlying emotion to 15th of August, for both India and Afghanistan would be the same! Hope! Hope for a better future. 

In this episode, our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss all that transpired in the last 24 months of the Taliban rule in Afghanistan, since their return to power on 15th August, 2021. It now stands as an isolated country and not a single country has formally recognised their rule. When the Taliban assumed control, we couldn't help but wonder: Will this resurgence mark a new chapter in Afghanistan's prolonged and blood-soaked history of conflict? Could the Taliban's rule descend into disarray, potentially creating a fertile ground for international jihadists and drug traffickers?

Nearly two years have elapsed, and the Taliban's dominion continues to extend across Afghanistan, with claims of having ushered in a semblance of peace and stability.  How much of it’s true, the duo find out.

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Russia's relentless war in Ukraine shows no signs of abating, extending over 500 days since its invasion.

The devastating war, characterized by air, land, and sea attacks, has caused the loss of hundreds of lives and inflicted suffering upon more than 44 million people. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, a staggering 24.7 million border crossings have been recorded since the invasion began in February 2022, with countless individuals seeking refuge in neighboring countries. 

Russia’s war on Ukraine has led to spikes in food and energy prices, national currencies have been affected, and made it worse for countries in the global south especially, because they were already reeling from the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic

Given the global scale of the conflict, efforts towards peacemaking have been made by various allies, including a recent initiative by Saudi Arabia. A two-day summit held in Jeddah was held over the weekend, where dozens of national security advisers and senior-ranking officials  from various countries met, and this was the second of its kind, following a similar forum in Copenhagen earlier in the summer. The summit's goal was to draft essential principles for ending Russia's war in Ukraine. However, it was quite alarming that Russia was not invited to participate.

In this episode, our host Anna Priyadarshini and foreign affairs editor at India Today, TV Today Network Geeta Mohan discuss what went down in the summit, how viable are these peace efforts, what’s Saudi’s vested interests in it, the Global south concern and more vital questions.

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Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound Mix by Kapil Dev Singh