Defining Naxals, Article 370 Mindset & Stalling Growth | Political Debate

Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu discussed ending India's 28-year medal drought in weightlifting at the Asian Games by winning a silver medal. Having previously secured Olympic, World Championship, and Commonwealth Games podium finishes, she noted that this was the only missing accolade in her career, stating, "Finally now the medal list is complete." Mirabai explained her disciplined preparation, revealing that she cuts off social media and phone access before major competitions to prevent injuries and maintain peak focus. She added that her coach has granted permission to celebrate the achievement, confirming she will enjoy pizza before turning her attention to future tournaments.

Tensions escalated at the United Nations General Assembly in New York following former US President Donald Trump's address targeting Iran. Trump labelled the country as a leading sponsor of terrorism, accusing the regime of spreading carnage and chaos across the Middle East. While reiterating that Washington had offered economic cooperation in exchange for halting nuclear ambitions, he noted that talks were rejected and maintained that Iran would never be allowed to develop nuclear weapons. Meanwhile, all eyes are on Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's upcoming speech on American soil at the assembly, amid speculation over whether any diplomatic engagement or retaliatory rhetoric will unfold between the two sides.

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. The meeting comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's planned visit to the United States in December to attend the G20 summit in Florida, where a bilateral meeting between PM Modi and President Donald Trump is scheduled. Both nations remain focused on addressing key issues, including trade negotiations. Dr Jaishankar is also expected to address the UNGA in the coming days.

Questions have been raised regarding the use of a chartered flight following the expiry of a three-year helicopter contract. The discussion also addressed concerns over ministers travelling abroad and the sponsorship of those trips. It was noted that ministers across the country travel overseas by invitation from various organisations without state funds being spent, enabling them to gain knowledge and engage with the large diaspora.