ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash

Manipur is on the edge, with no end in sight to the Kuki-Meitei divide. AFSPA has been imposed in six districts, and additional forces have been deployed in the state after 11suspected militants were killed in an encounter with the CRPF. When will peace return to Manipur? Is the Centre delaying taking the strictest action against radical groups? What's the solution? In the latest episode of the ANI podcast, Lt Gen D S Hooda (Retd) answers all these questions. Having served for 40 years, he held multiple posts, including Army Commander of the Northern Command. He was the Army Commander during the Chumar incident along the LAC in 2014 and during the launch of the surgical strikes in September 2016. He retired in November 2016. In this episode he also talks about the India-China border truce and whether Beijing can be trusted. He explains in detail what is happening in Jammu and Kashmir and why there is a rise in terror attacks there. More on the surgical strikes against Pakistan in 2016, reforms in the Army, and expenditure on the armed forces. 00:00 - Introduction 01:22 - Manipur Crisis Explained 04:32 - Meiteis-Kukis Ethnic Divide 09:52 - Assam Rifles Row in Manipur 10:52 - Armed Groups in Manipur 13:29 - How to Restore Peace in Manipur 14:43 - Manipur Crisis: A National Security Matter 16:60 (17:00) - Why No Action Against Violence in Manipur 18:03 - India-China Border Truce 20:12 - Can China Be Trusted? 21:52 - Why China 'Dislikes' India's Rise 26:40 - Buffer Zones at LAC 28:12 - Chumar Standoff in 2014 38:12 - When the PLA Left Its Soldier in India 40:52 - Facilities for Soldiers at LAC 45:22 - Attacks in Jammu & Kashmir 55:37 - Local Support for Terrorists in J&K 1:00:37 - Does India Need More Army Personnel? 1:02:19 - Expenditure on Armed Forces 1:09:08 - Armed Forces 'Reluctant' Towards Tech Reforms? 1:14:10 - Overseeing Surgical Strikes Against Pak in 2016 1:19:17 - Why Balakot Was Picked to Strike Pak 1:22:52 - Why No Strikes Against Pakistan After 26/11 Attack 1:26:38 - Heading Congress Panel on National Security Strategy 1:31:46 - Agniveer Scheme 1:35:52 - Retired Service Members Joining Politics 1:38:12 - Uber-IAF Deal Repercussions 1:46:14 - Personal Data at Risk

A few major tech companies are dominating the digital world and have significant influence in politics as well. Big Tech companies control many aspects of our lives, including markets, businesses, and public services. Is it a good idea to allow a few tech giants to monopolize our data? Where does China stand in the tech race against the USA? Where does India stand in the global tech race, and what are its digital vulnerabilities? And what about modern warfare? How are drones changing the course of war and transforming how battles are fought? what is data privacy—and why is it important? To answer these questions, the ANI podcast with Smita Prakash features Lt. Col. Pavithran Rajan, a former intelligence officer, academic, and tech entrepreneur. He explains how technology is reshaping the battlefield, allowing countries to win wars without even entering the battlefield. He also discusses the role of artificial intelligence in modern warfare and emphasizes the need for India to protect its digital interests. This is a must-watch podcast for anyone who thinks there’s nothing to hide and doesn’t understand why privacy matters for both individuals and businesses. 00:00 - Introduction 01:16 - Pager Attack in Lebanon 10:24 - China’s Supply Chain Strategy 15:36 - OSI Layers of Encryption 25:58 - Five Eyes' Response to Intel Threats 28:54 - Digital Policies of China & India 35:28 - Data Privacy in India 41:02 - Data Breaches in the USA 42:59 - India Under Surveillance 47:41 - Semiconductor Industry in India 51:19 - China–India Relations 56:16 - U.S. Dollar and SWIFT 59:21 - Why SWIFT Remains Indispensable 1:10:36 - Use of Cyber Technology in Wars 1:13:54 - The Rise of AI Apps 1:15:45 - India’s Position in the Cyber Power Ranking 1:24:36 - Quantum Cryptography 1:28:21 - Snowden Revelations 1:31:49 - Is Your Phone Listening to You? 1:44:48 - Hamas Attack on Israel 1:52:00 - What Should India Do Amid Global Wars?

Social media has greatly transformed the skincare industry. People are constantly searching for the best sunscreen, ways to get rid of acne and pimples, and tips for flawless skin. This obsession with skincare is at an all-time high, especially among the youth. In the latest episode of ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Delhi-NCR's top dermatologist, Dr. Ankur Sarin, joins to clear up common myths about skincare products and explain the difference between European and Indian beauty products. Dr Sarin shares a simple three-step routine for healthy skin and discusses the effectiveness of traditional home remedies. He also highlights why teenagers might be experiencing hair loss, pointing to stress, weight issues, and environmental factors as common causes. Watch this episode to learn more about skincare, hair care, and ways to manage hair loss and baldness. 00:00 – Introduction 01:00 – Most Asked Questions to Dermatologists 02:55 – Male Pattern Baldness 04:50 – Pigmentation 07:50 – When to Use Sunscreen 12:00 – Demand for Fair Skin 13:54 – How to Get Rid of Acne & Pimples 19:20 – What’s Best for Your Skin 21:40 – European vs. Indian Products 25:50 – How to Take Care of Your Skin & Body 30:54 – Male and Female Pattern Baldness Treatment 35:30 – Chemotherapy and Hair Loss 37:55 – 'Ghar Ke Nuskhe' for Skin & Hair Oiling 39:57 – True & False Segment 45:35 – This & That Segment 49:59 – Impact of Social Media on Choosing Skin Care

Avinash Dharmadhikari is a renowned Indian bureaucrat, author, and educator, celebrated for his contributions to public service and youth empowerment. A former IAS officer from Maharashtra, Dharmadhikari resigned from his prestigious post in 1996, choosing to dedicate his career to educating and mentoring the next generation of civil service aspirants and social leaders. Known for his deep commitment to societal transformation, he founded the Chanakya Mandal Pariwar, an institution aimed at nurturing aspiring civil servants through a blend of values-based education and rigorous training. Dharmadhikari is also an accomplished writer, and his works include Aswastha Dashakanchi Diary, a popular Marathi book chronicling his journey and reflections on India's social and administrative challenges. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Avinash Dharmadhikari opens up about the challenging realities of the UPSC exams and shares why he left the civil services to focus on politics and education. Reflecting on his role in Anna Hazare's Anti-Corruption Movement, he discusses his subsequent disillusionment with the Aam Aadmi Party and later with the Shiv Sena. Dharmadhikari also gives his perspective on the current political landscape in Maharashtra, analyzing why the Mahayuti alliance struggled to create a more significant impact in the state in the 2024 General Elections. In this candid conversation, Avinash Dharmadhikari further explores Vir Savarkar's role in India’s independence movement, and explains Savarkar's vision of Hindutva. 0:00 - Introduction 0:45 - Quitting Civil Services 6:22 - Contesting Elections 9:00 - Anna Hazare's Anti-Corruption Movement 14:30 - Corruption in UPSC Selection Process? 17:03 - Importance of 'Character Building' for UPSC Aspirants 21:40 - Disillusion with Shiv Sena 26:10 - Savarkar's Role in Indian Freedom Struggle 32:49 - Where Does Loyalty of Civil Servants Lie? 35:27 - Mahayuti's Poor Performance in 2024 Lok Sabha Polls 41:43 - Foreign Interference in 2024 General Elections? 44:30 - Indian Youth Disillusioned with Media & Governance? 47:10 - Increasing Tolerance for Corruption Among Politicians 51:13 - Flaws in Indian Democracy? 54:15 - Reservation Protests & Farmer Suicides in Maharashtra 59:00 - Importance of Rural Development Projects 1:00:43 - Rising Trend of Civil Servants Entering Politics 1:03:13 - Dark Side of UPSC Coaching Institutes

Manisha Koirala is a renowned Nepali-Indian actress known for her exceptional talent and versatility in Hindi, Nepali, and South Indian cinema. Born in Kathmandu, she comes from a prominent Nepali political family. Manisha has delivered some powerful performances in iconic films like Bombay, 1942: A Love Story, Dil Se, and Khamoshi: The Musical. Known for her skill in portraying deep and complex characters, she returned to the spotlight with the OTT series Heeramandi, earning significant critical acclaim. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, veteran actress Manisha Koirala opens up about her journey in Bollywood, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from her acclaimed films such as 1942: A Love Story, Khamoshi, Dil Se, Bombay, and Heeramandi. She reflects on her experiences within the industry, discussing the ways Bollywood has evolved over the years. A cancer survivor, Manisha speaks on her advocacy for cancer awareness, emphasizing the importance of timely treatment. She also shares her thoughts on spirituality and the central role of family in her life. 0:00 - Introduction 0:40 - The Cult of '1942: A Love Story' 5:25 - The Story Behind 'Khamoshi' 7:35 - Behind the Scenes of 'Heeramandi' 10:50 - How Bollywood Changed Over the Years 16:18 - The 'Bombay' Controversy 19:27 - The Original 'Dil Se' Plot 24:50 - The Making of 'Heeramandi' 30:00 - Battling with Cancer 37:12 - The Legacy of Koirala Family 45:10 - Navigating Through Bollywood 49:25 - Friendships & Relationships 51:33 - A Director's Actor 53:43 - Political Volatility in Nepal 58:22 - The Massacre of Nepal’s Royal Family 1:00:38 - Role of Spirituality 1:01:41 - Raising Cancer Awareness 1:05:17 - The Importance of Therapy 1:07:00 - Speaking Up on Women's Issues 1:09:38 - Nepal's Human Trafficking Crisis 1:10:50 - Mantra & Goals 1:11:46 - The Importance of Family

Get ready for the much-awaited episode of the 'Real' Samosa Caucus! Edition 4.0 is here and it's all about raw, uncensored, no-holds-barred discussions. Joining the chat are: Sushant Sareen, Senior Fellow at ORF Tehseen Poonawalla, TV personality and political analyst Anand Ranganathan, author and scientist Abhijit Iyer-Mitra, Senior Fellow at the Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies This episode dives into some heated topics, including: The India-Canada spat over the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar The rise of Khalistani elements under Trudeau’s watch Did India send an agent to take out Khalistani separatist Pannun in the USA? The panel also digs into why exit polls keep missing the mark on voter sentiment and Andhra CM Chandrababu Naidu's call for more babies—what's behind it? And much more. Don't miss the witty banter in this episode! 00:00 - Introduction & Message to Viewers 03:14 - Samosa Caucus Returns 08:43 - Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar Killing 15:40 - Israel-Iran War Escalation 16:45 - Impact of Cancel Culture 19:06 - Canada-India Diplomatic Crisis 27:14 - Canada Harbouring Criminals? 33:42 - U.S. Sheltering 'K-Backer' Pannun 36:54 - Did India Disown Vikas Yadav over 'Kill Pannun' plot? 46:39 - BRICS 2024 & India-China Relations 55:00 - Pakistan's Bid to Join BRICS 1:01:25 - Exit Polls' Flop Show 1:07:34 - Mainstream Media Losing Credibility? 1:15:34 - Ola's Business Model 1:23:38 - Samosa Caucus 5.0 in Goa? 1:25:04 - J&K Assembly Elections 2024 1:31:29 - Stalin Demands 'Tamil Name' for Kids 1:33:39 - Aging Population Issue in South India 1:40:34 - Inter-State Migration 1:50:11 - 'Batenge to Katenge' Row 2:06:14 - Uber's MOU with IAF 2:19:48 - Maharashtra Assembly Polls 2:28:14 - Why Congress Lost Haryana 2:31:34 - 'Flop' Exit Poll 2:32:47 - Favorite OTT Shows 2:38:14 - Luxury Apartments 2:43:52 - Resolutions for 2025

In recent months, Jammu and Kashmir has seen a surge in attacks, with police encountering new strategies from terrorists. Who is fueling this renewed terror, and how can armed forces respond? To answer all these questions, we have former top cop Shesh Paul Vaid, who has witnessed the rise of militancy firsthand and the evolving landscape of J&K. He shares insights from his personal experiences, including surviving an attack, the release of Masood Azhar, and attributing recent violence to Pakistan’s influence. Shesh Paul Vaid, a senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, has served as one of Jammu and Kashmir's most respected top cops. Known for his dedication and resilience, Vaid led the Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) as Director General (DGP) during a critical period marked by heightened militancy and security challenges. His tenure saw numerous counter-insurgency operations aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region. He also worked to strengthen community policing initiatives to foster trust with local communities. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, former Jammu and Kashmir top cop Shesh Paul Vaid discusses the recent surge in terror attacks in the region. He shares insights into the terrorists' modus operandi and the strategies they use to incite violence in the Valley. Vaid also reflects on the release of Masood Azhar during his tenure, describing it as an embarrassing moment for the country. Additionally, he recounts a near-death experience when his convoy was ambushed by 17 terrorists, as well as the circumstances surrounding the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits. 00:00 - Introduction 00:45 - IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack 08:44 - Masood Azhar's Release 22:20 - Kidnapping of Rubaiya Sayeed 25:14 - 'First' Wave of Militancy in Kashmir 30:36 - Aftermath of Burhan Wani Killing 39:44 - Public Safety Act 42:44 - Operation All-Out in J&K 44:26 - Hanging of Afzal Guru 51:09 - Hurriyat hypocrisy 57:24 - When 17 Terrorists Attacked SP Vaid 1:04:54 - 'Special' Treatment for Syed Ali Shah Geelani 1:07:07 - Mast Gul's Escape from Charar-e-Sharief Shrine 1:10:32 - J&K Security Situation in the '90s 1:12:18 - Exodus of Kashmiri Pandits 1:22:34 - Contribution & Sacrifices of J&K Police 1:29:26 - Modus Operandi of Recent Terror Attacks in J&K 1:38:05 - J&K Assembly Elections 2024

New Delhi-Ottawa relations have reached an all-time low after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged the involvement of Indian government officials and diplomats in the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar—a figure who was designated as a terrorist in India and placed on Canada’s no-fly list. Both countries have since expelled top envoys and other diplomats as tensions over Nijjar's killing escalate. Trudeau accused India of interfering in Canada’s sovereignty, while India dismissed his claims as baseless and absurd. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Sanjay Kumar Verma, the recalled Indian High Commissioner to Canada, shares his perspective on Canada’s handling of Sikh extremist elements, which he believes is influenced by vote-bank politics. Verma also explains why Trudeau has refrained from taking action against Khalistani figures who are wanted in India for serious crimes. He shares personal accounts of the challenges he and his family faced in Canada. Verma stresses that a small group of Khalistani elements has hijacked the narrative and that the majority of Sikhs do not support the Khalistan movement. Watch this episode to understand how the Canadian government addresses Khalistani extremism and why some believe it has given them a free hand. 0:00 - Coming Up 1:12 - Introduction 2:02 - India-Canada Diplomatic Row 8:40 - What Canadians Think of India 12:00 - Nijjar Killing Probe 16:44 - Bishnoi Gang Link to Nijjar Killing 21:07 - Trudeau's Allegations Against New Delhi 23:56 - MEA's Strong Response to Canada 27:00 - Threats & Attacks against Envoy Sanjay Verma 35:34 - Attacks on Diplomats in Western Countries 39:47 - Indian Journalists Accused of Foreign Interference 45:22 - Lawrence Bishnoi 51:00 - Trudeau Harbouring Khalistani Elements 55:33 - 'Fake' Asylum Claims in Canada 59:06 - India: A 'Rogue' Nation? 1:01:30 - Will India-Canada Ties Improve? 1:04:05 - Pakistan-Khalistan Ties? 1:05:05 - What's Next for Envoy Sanjay Verma

Annu Kapoor is an entertainer who has worn many hats—actor, singer, director, producer, radio jockey, and television presenter—earning immense respect and recognition worldwide. He became a household name through iconic television shows like Antakshari and Wheel Smart Srimati. Known for speaking his mind, Annu Kapoor has appeared in over 100 films and numerous television shows. He has been honoured with two National Film Awards, a Filmfare Award, and two Indian Television Academy Awards. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Annu Kapoor delves into his thoughts on nationalism. He expresses his belief that most Indians do not truly love their country and also opens up on atheism. Kapoor shares anecdotes about legends from the film industry, including a vivid recount of Shabana Azmi and Javed Akhtar’s wedding, and reflects on a spat with Amitabh Bachchan. He also reveals an intriguing episode from the sets of 7 Khoon Maaf, alleging that Priyanka Chopra refused to kiss him because he wasn’t a 'hero.' Tune in to this episode as Kapoor shares his flair for 'shayari' and performs a 300-year-old rap in his signature style. 00:00 - Introduction 01:44 - Upcoming projects 04:37 - Early life struggles 16:42 - Patriotism vs. Nationalism 21:37 - Early days in Bollywood 33:10 - Why he avoids watching films & news 34:33 - National Awards 37:05 - Lessons from the Bhagavad Gita 39:19 - True meaning of 'Deshbhakti' 43:59 - Publicity stunts 46:30 - Punctuality & Discipline 49:02 - Why was Wheel Smart Srimati scrapped? 53:40 - Learning discipline from Islam 55:27 - Brihadaranyaka Upanishad teachings 58:52 - Love, religion, and honour killings 1:02:14 - The story of 'Bharat' 1:04:34 - Annu 'Google' Kapoor 1:10:14 - Relationship with parents 1:13:48 - 'Kiss' controversy with Priyanka Chopra 1:20:14 - Shabana Azmi & Javed Akhtar's wedding 1:22:14 - Darr shoot 1:25:14 - Story behind India's independence 1:29:58 - World's 'oldest' rap song

Krishnamurthy Venkata Subramanian served as the 17th Chief Economic Adviser to the Government of India from 2018 to 2021, becoming the youngest to hold this prestigious position. Subramanian's tenure as the Chief Economic Adviser was marked by his contributions to shaping India's economic policies during crucial years, including the Covid-19 pandemic. He is now India's Executive Director at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), where he continues to represent India on global economic matters. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Prof. Subramanian delves into the critical role of wealth creators in driving India’s economic progress, explaining why they are the backbone of a thriving economy. He emphasizes the importance of balancing economic policies to encourage entrepreneurship while also addressing income inequality. Subramanian doesn’t shy away from discussing the systemic challenges facing the country, including the pressing need for judicial reforms to address backlogs that hamper business operations and economic efficiency. He also touches on the impact of India's increasing digital transactions on economic transparency and efficiency. Additionally, he discusses how spirituality and mindfulness can serve as tools for personal growth, especially in the fast-paced world of economics. 00:00 - Introduction 01:00 - India @100 Book 05:41 - India's Projected Economic Growth 10:35 - Wealth Creators 15:25 - Slow Growth of Small Businesses 25:03 - India's Agricultural Policies 32:55 - Importance of Economic Reforms 41:27 - Signs of a Good Economy 47:23 - The Willful Defaulter Phenomenon 51:45 - Need for Judicial Reforms 1:00:02 - India's Digital Boom 1:06:29 - Lessons from Demonetisation 1:11:32 - India's Job Market 1:18:25 - Responsibility of State Govts. in Job Creation 1:21:35 - The Politics of Freebies 1:34:22 - Snap Reaction Segment 1:45:39 - Remembers His Father & Family 1:57:04 - Economic Challenges During the Pandemic 2:05:39 - Spirituality & Mindfulness 2:08:45 - Importance of Reading

John Chambers is the Chairman of the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) and the former CEO of Cisco. Under his leadership, Cisco became one of the world’s largest and most successful technology companies. Dr. Mukesh Aghi is the President and CEO of USISPF. He works closely with business and government leaders in both the U.S. and India to promote trade and strengthen ties between the two nations. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, the guests discuss the evolution of India-U.S. relations over the past 15 years. John Chambers expresses strong confidence in India, saying that this decade and century belong to New Delhi. Dr. Mukesh Aghi shares a similar view, noting that the ties between India and the U.S. are on an upward trajectory, unaffected by changes in political leadership. They also address the recent tensions between India and Canada over the Khalistan issue and its potential impact on businesses and students. Both guests praise Prime Minister Modi for fostering an environment in which entrepreneurship and startups have flourished in the past decade. 00:00 - Introduction 00:44 - India’s Century 03:49 - India: Then vs. Now 04:55 - India-Canada Spat 10:00 - U.S. Presidential Election 12:08 - India vs. China Economy 14:10 - India: A Tough Negotiator 16:54 - The Future of AI 20:15 - U.S.-China Tensions 22:30 - Middle East Conflict 25:00 - Tariffs & Migration in the USA 29:34 - India’s Chip Ambitions 33:34 - Business Prospects in India 37:31 - Indian vs. U.S. Investors

Conrad Sangma is the Chief Minister of Meghalaya and a leader of the National People's Party (NPP). He began his political career as a campaign manager for his father, P.A. Sangma, a former Cabinet minister. After serving as an MLA and the Opposition Leader, he became the NPP President in 2016. Sangma was first elected Chief Minister in 2018 and was re-elected in 2023. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, CM Conrad Sangma discusses his alliance with the BJP, despite having the numbers to run the government independently. He addresses the beef ban issue, stating that people should not interfere with others' eating habits. He also talks about the border dispute between Assam and Meghalaya in Mukroh. Further, Meghalaya CM Sangma shares his thoughts on the Uniform Civil Code and its potential impact on the region. He also discusses the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), the National Register of Citizens (NRC), and One Nation, One Election. He explains Meghalaya's economy and a government lottery scheme designed to increase revenue. Additionally, he highlights the drug problem in the Northeast and how tourism can contribute to economic growth. He also compares the Look East policy, which was upgraded to the Act East policy in 2014 by the Modi government. 00:00 - Introduction 01:25 - Legacy of P.A. Sangma 02:55 - Congress sidelined P.A. Sangma? 08:28 - Formation of NPP 11:12 - BJP-NPP Alliance 15:14 - Beef Ban Row 20:25 - Assam-Meghalaya Border Dispute 26:50 - UCC 28:50 - CAA-NRC Impact in NE States 31:17 - One Nation, One Election 33:36 - NPP to Expand in Other States? 35:05 - UPA's Neglect of the NE 40:04 - Bangladesh Crisis: Security Risks for Meghalaya 43:20 - Meghalaya's Economy 47:36 - Government Lottery Scheme 53:38 - Northeast's Drug Problem 1:02:05 - Tourism in Meghalaya 1:10:28 - Manipur Crisis Impact on Meghalaya 1:15:10 - Snap Reaction 1:33:25 - CM 'Cool'

Revant Himatsingka is on a mission to encourage Indians to read food labels. His goal is to educate people about what they're consuming and to protect them from 'misleading' marketing tactics. By challenging FMCG giants, he aims to improve the quality of food products available in India. Originally from Kolkata, Revant moved to New York to study finance. He later earned an MBA from Wharton and completed a course in nutrition. In the latest episode of the ANI podcast with Smita Prakash, Revant explains his decision to return to India to raise awareness about the importance of reading food labels before making purchases. He has initiated the campaign 'Label Padhega India' to inform people about the effects of processed and packaged foods on their health. He also discusses what the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) can do to improve public awareness. Revant's mission is to spark a health revolution in India by revealing how FMCG companies often sell substandard products domestically while providing higher-quality goods in European markets. Additionally, he shares personal anecdotes about the sacrifices he is making in his battle against these large corporations. 00:00 - Introduction 00:52 - Conscious Capitalism Meaning 02:08 - What is FMCG? 08:02 - 'Label Padhega India' Campaign 11:38 - Food Labels 26:20 - Baby Food in India vs. Europe 31:14 - Biscuits vs. Chocolates 41:18 - India: Food 'Dumping Ground' 46:20 - India vs. Singapore: Food Product Regulations 47:57 - What should FSSAI do? 55:13 - How to Read Food Labels 58:28 - Health Literacy in India 1:10:23 - Frozen Dessert vs. Ice Cream 1:14:28 - Choosing Food Products 1:25:02 - Next Goal

It has been one year since Hamas launched a significant attack against Israel, which was one of the deadliest incidents in recent history. Over 1000 were killed, and over 250 people were taken hostage. In response, Israel initiated ground operations in Gaza, resulting in hundreds of casualties and continuing strikes. Amid this conflict, Israel has opened two new fronts in the war. They have targeted the entire Hezbollah leadership, including its chief, Hassan Nasrallah. This move has provoked a strong reaction from Iran, which launched over 180 missiles toward Israel. How Israel will respond and whether it will consider attacking Iran’s oil and nuclear facilities. The outcome of these events could significantly alter the landscape of the Middle East. In this episode of the ANI podcast with Smita Prakash, we are joined by Lt. Gen. Raj Shukla (Retd.), former General Officer Commanding of the Army Training Command and an expert in counter-insurgency operations, along with Lt. Col. Pavithran Rajan, a former intelligence operative, academician, and tech entrepreneur. They discuss whether the U.S. will support Israel in attacking Iranian facilities and what lessons India can learn from the Israel-Iran conflict. They also delve into Israel's unique Pager Attack and how AI is transforming modern warfare. They also talk about the role of Russia and China in the Middle East. 00:00 - Introduction 02:35 - Israel’s 3-Front War 04:35 - Israel's Pager Attack 11:25 - Killing of Hassan Nasrallah 20:50 - Russia’s Role in the Middle East 30:25 - Persian Civilization 37:32 - China’s Stand on the Israel War 41:42 - China vs. Taiwan 44:39 - Regime Change in Iran 59:17 - India's Role in the Middle East 1:02:50 - How AI is Changing Warfare 1:10:43 - What is AI Assassination 1:20:45 - Weaponization of Social Media 1:26:24 - Private Players in Defence Sector 1:30:44 - Lessons for India 1:40:10 - China Leading in Manufacturing 1:44:54 - Should India Embrace AI?

The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections are taking place for the first time in a decade, following the abrogation of Article 370. What role will Jammu play—can it be a kingmaker in government formation? How do the people of Jammu feel about the abrogation of Article 370? Is there a possibility for J&K to have a Hindu Chief Minister? In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, we are joined by two seasoned journalists from Jammu, Manoj Kaul and Arun Joshi, who have extensively covered the region for decades. They predict an edge for the National Conference (NC), forecasting a hung assembly where government formation is unlikely without the support of Congress or NC. The journalists highlight how Jammu can play a key role as a kingmaker in the upcoming elections. They discuss the issue of restoring statehood, which remains a major concern for voters. Additionally, the two journalists examine the participation of former Jamaat leaders in these elections and consider the potential success of Engineer Rashid's party in the J&K polls. Watch the episode for an in-depth discussion on the future of Jammu and Kashmir politics. 00:00 - Introduction 00:50 - J&K Polls: Now vs Before 09:11 - Jamaat Factor in J&K Polls 14:54 - Engineer Rashid's Role 24:27 - Jammu Being Neglected 30:13 - Altaf Bukhari & Ghulam Nabi Azad 35:36 - Will BJP Sweep Jammu? 43:40 - Reporting on J&K Polls 48:58 - Reporting on Stone Pelting 52:24 - Jammu vs. Kashmir Development 57:27 - Is Jammu a Kingmaker? 1:02:56 - Impact in Jammu: Modi vs. Rahul 1:09:16 - Dynasties in J&K Politics 1:13:33 - Ethnic Communities in J&K 1:17:48 - Post-Poll Alliances 1:22:15 - Article 370 in Jammu 1:25:55 - Outsiders in J&K Polls 1:30:43 - Jammu Statehood

Rasheed Kidwai is a senior journalist, political analyst, and author known for his insights into Indian politics and the Congress party. He has written extensively about the Indian political system and is the author of notable books like 24 Akbar Road. Kidwai regularly contributes to national media outlets and appears on prime-time debates for various news channels. Yana Mir is a journalist and political commentator from Jammu and Kashmir, known for her bold views on the abrogation of Article 370 and how it has changed the valley. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, journalists Rasheed Kidwai and Yana Mir discuss the assembly elections in Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir. Kidwai highlights the anti-incumbency and local dissatisfaction with BJP leaders in Haryana. He also discusses the rift between Hooda and Selja and whether it could be a spoiler for the Congress party in the Haryana polls. Yana Mir talks about the political scene in Kashmir, noting how locals are growing disillusioned with the Abdullah and Mufti dynasties. She discusses the rise of independent candidates in the valley and how Engineer Rashid is attracting voters’ attention. They also highlight the media's influence in shaping narratives and the importance of these elections for the BJP and its allies in NDA 3.0. 00:00 – Introduction 01:53 – Haryana & J-K Polls 08:57 – Independent Candidates in J&K Polls 12:10 – Crowded J&K Poll Fray 16:53 – NC vs PDP Battle 20:30 – Corruption Issue in Polls 23:22 – The Modi Factor in J&K Polls 29:52 – Will BJP Sweep Jammu? 32:12 – Yana's Tweets Controversy 38:50 – Role of Media in Elections 47:38 – Foreign Diplomats' Visit to J&K 52:00 – People Upset with BJP in J&K? 53:32 – Congress' Prospects in J&K 58:07 – Rahul vs. Modi in Popularity 1:04:58 – Separatists in J&K Polls 1:09:17 – Labeling Media as the Villain 1:12:22 – Hindu-Muslim Issues in Polls 1:14:42 – 'Samvidhan Badal Denge' Row 1:22:52 – Is Media Still Powerful in India? 1:25:52 – Can AAP Spring a Surprise in Haryana? 1:27:52 – The Next CM of Jammu & Kashmir 1:31:43 – Impact of Election Results on NDA 3.0

Ajay Chrungoo is a prominent Kashmiri Pandit and the Chairman of Panun Kashmir, an organization advocating for the rights and rehabilitation of displaced Kashmiri Pandits. He is known for speaking about the challenges faced by the Pandit community in the 1990s due to the insurgency in the Valley. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Ajay Chrungoo discusses the demand for a separate homeland, 'Panun Kashmir,' for Kashmiri Pandits in Jammu & Kashmir. He asserts that what happened in 1989-90 was a genocide against Kashmiri Pandits, not just a wave of migration. He shares his personal story of being attacked by terrorists and fleeing the valley, leaving everything behind. Chrungoo also explains why many Pandits are calling for a boycott of the 2024 J&K Assembly Polls. He holds the BJP, Congress, and National Conference responsible for the attacks against Pandits, accusing them of playing a key role during that time. (Thumbnail Picture Courtesy: Reuters) 00:00 - Introduction 00:57 - Kashmir: Then vs. Now 03:42 - What is Panun Kashmir 10:54 - Separate Territory for Pandits Demand 12:42 - What Kashmiri Pandits Want 15:25 - Politics Over Pandits 19:29 - Election 'Boycott' Call 26:00 - Pandits and Political Party 29:51 - Exodus Horror of 1989-1990 35:06 - Pandits Returning After Article 370 37:38 - Land for Panun Kashmir 39:05 - Who Can Help Kashmiri Pandits 43:12 - NC's Role in Pandits' Exodus 49:44 - How Many Pandits Were Killed in 90s 54:54 - Why Pandits Choose NOTA in Voting

Tarun Chugh is a senior BJP leader, currently serving as the party's National General Secretary and in charge of Jammu & Kashmir. He has been strengthening the party's presence in Jammu and Kashmir for the past 30 years. His role in overseeing the BJP's activities in the region has made him an important figure in J&K's political landscape. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Tarun Chugh expresses confidence that the BJP will form the government in Jammu & Kashmir without any support from regional parties like the NC or PDP. He sees the rise of independent candidates as a sign of changing times in the region and suggests that the end of militancy has been a turning point in the valley’s journey towards stability and growth. Chugh also highlights how Prime Minister Modi’s development agenda has reshaped J&K after the abrogation of Article 370. He also talks about the party's commitment to Agniveers and assures that statehood will be restored, as promised by both PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. The discussion also covers the challenges faced by Kashmiri Pandits, the return of peace and democracy to the region, and the BJP’s position on important issues like the Darbar Move and the controversial 1987 election rigging.

Mir Junaid is a Kashmiri politician and social activist widely recognized for his strong support of the abrogation of Article 370 and his advocacy for peace and development in Jammu and Kashmir. As the president of the Jammu and Kashmir Workers Party, Mir Junaid has actively engaged in grassroots politics, with a focus on enhancing stability and fostering economic growth in the region. He is often seen as a strong supporter of India's sovereignty and integration of Jammu and Kashmir, and he has been instrumental in raising awareness about the challenges faced by the people in the valley. He is set to contest the upcoming J&K Assembly elections from the Langate constituency in Kupwara district. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Mir Junaid opens up about his decision to support the abrogation of Article 370 and aims the National Conference and People's Democratic Party, the two dominant political forces in Jammu and Kashmir. He accuses them of fueling violence in the region, claiming they exploited the emotions of the Kashmiri people for political gains. He also charges them with colluding with militants, often calling off military operations to protect insurgents, and blames them for the mass exodus of Kashmiri Pandits during the 1990s. Junaid emphasizes that his party, the Jammu and Kashmir Workers Party, is committed to fighting for the restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. Junaid also highlights the BJP's recent move to grant reservations to the region's ethnic minorities, fulfilling a longstanding demand. He also adds that this decision prompted his wife, Dr. Shehnaz Ganai's decision to join the BJP. He also recalls the incident when he was attacked by Pakistani nationals at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. Firmly opposed to any dialogue with Pakistan on the Kashmir issue, Junaid argues that a country responsible for decades of bloodshed in the valley should not be welcomed to the negotiating table. 00:00 - Introduction 01:02 - Supporting Abrogation of Article 370 05:25 - Exposing PDP & NC 09:44 - Rahul Gandhi's J&K Campaign 11:36 - NC-PDP Supported Militants? 13:30 - Kashmiri Pandits' Exodus 16:40 - Promise of 'Naya' Kashmir 17:59 - Politics of the Abdullahs 20:23 - BJP's Entry in J&K 22:47 - Fight for Statehood 24:23 - Who Will Form Govt. in J&K? 32:31 - Rise of Engineer Rashid 34:58 - ISI's Attack on Mir Junaid in USA 36:23 - Kashmir's Youth Voters 39:12 - Ethnic Minorities in J&K 43:32 - BJP Supporting Independent Candidates? 45:47 - Mir Junaid's Vision for Kashmir 48:12 - Election Promises 55:19 - Dr. Shehnaz Ganai's Move to Join BJP 57:27 - Should India Hold Dialogue with Pakistan? 59:07 - Security Situation in J&K

Raman Bhalla is currently serving as the working president of the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee. A senior leader in the Jammu region, Raman Bhalla has been elected twice to the J&K Legislative Assembly from the Gandhinagar constituency and has also served as the revenue minister in the J&K government. In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Raman Bhalla talks about who has the upper hand in the Jammu region and what has changed since the abrogation of Article 370. He also highlights key differences between the Congress and NC manifestos, NC's stance on Article 370, and the role of the PDP in the INDIA Bloc. Bhalla alleges that the BJP is backing independent candidates in the Jammu and Kashmir elections. He also discusses the halting of the Darbar Move, a practice of shifting government offices between Jammu and Srinagar, and the impact this decision has had on the region. The conversation also covers security concerns, including the rise of terror attacks in Jammu and the rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits. 00:00 - Introduction 00:39 - Political Situation in Jammu South 04:47 - Congress Manifesto Delayed 09:38 - Delimitation 13:34 - Congress vs NC Manifestos 16:35 - Normalcy Post Article 370 17:29 - 'Parivarvaad' in J&K Politics 21:22 - PDP's Role in the INDIA Bloc 23:55 - Independents in J&K Polls 25:47 - Halting of the Darbar Move 28:36 - Pak Interference in J&K 29:41 - Terror Attacks in Jammu Division 30:26 - Kashmiri Pandit Rehabilitation 38:20 - Who Will Win the J&K Polls?