The government on Tuesday approved the appointment of former Enforcement Directorate (ED) chief Sanjay Kumar Mishra as a full-time member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) with the rank of secretary. During Mishra’s tenure, the ED secured approval for the extradition of fugitives like Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, and arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari.
The agency also launched investigations into key political figures, including Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and Robert Vadra, husband of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Additionally, it took action against several prominent politicians such as Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren, former Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh, ex-Jammu and Kashmir CM Mehbooba Mufti, and National Conference leaders Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah.
Mishra was first appointed as ED chief in 2018 and was granted multiple extensions by the Centre. The Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) is an independent body that advises the Indian government, particularly the Prime Minister, on economic and related matters. Its responsibilities include analyzing issues referred by the Prime Minister, addressing macroeconomic concerns, and undertaking other tasks as assigned by the PM.
Currently, the EAC-PM is chaired by Suman Bery, with Sanjeev Sanyal and Dr. Shamika Ravi as members. Part-time members include Rakesh Mohan, Dr. Sajjid Chinoy, Dr. Neelkanth Mishra, Nilesh Shah, Prof. TT Ram Mohan, and Dr. Poonam Gupta. Mishra, a retired 1984-batch Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer and an expert in economic affairs, previously served as the Chief Commissioner of Income Tax in Delhi before taking charge as ED chief on November 19, 2018, for an initial two-year term. His tenure was extended multiple times, with the Supreme Court later allowing an extension until September 15, 2024, citing "national interest" while ruling out further extensions.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from X/@ANI
BOAO, China — Pakistan and China are engaged in ongoing discussions to enhance security measures for Chinese nationals working in Pakistan, Islamabad’s ambassador to Beijing stated on Wednesday (March 26). Chinese citizens have frequently been targeted by separatist militants who accuse Beijing of supporting Pakistan in exploiting natural resources in Balochistan, a southwestern province where China has significant mining and port investments.
Ambassador Khalil Hashmi affirmed that ensuring the safety of Chinese nationals is Pakistan’s "national responsibility," and the government is making every effort to protect them. Speaking at the Boao Forum in Hainan, China, he noted that both nations collaborate closely on information sharing and the formulation of security protocols. "We regularly update our Chinese partners on the measures being taken. It remains a work in progress," he said.
China has urged Pakistan to allow its security personnel to safeguard thousands of Chinese citizens working there, frustrated by recurring attacks. This demand intensified following an October bombing at Karachi airport, which claimed the lives of two Chinese engineers returning to a power plant project.
Hashmi confirmed that discussions on this matter continue, emphasizing the strong mutual trust between both countries. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the security situation but expressed confidence in Pakistan’s ability to address the threats effectively. "It is a complex security environment," he said. "However, we have the capability to counter, combat, and eliminate these terrorist forces." With Chinese investments playing a crucial role in Pakistan’s economy, particularly under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), ensuring the safety of Chinese nationals remains a top priority for both nations as they work toward strengthening their strategic partnership.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.
Chandigarh, Punjab, India – March 26: Ahead of the presentation of Punjab's Budget for 2025-26, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema met Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann at his residence on Wednesday. Prior to the meeting, Cheema signed the Budget documents. This marks the fourth budget of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government since coming to power in 2022. The budget is expected to focus on developmental initiatives, with key priorities including education, healthcare, and combating drug addiction. Reports suggest that AAP will take a firm stance against drug abuse, and for the first time, a Drug Census may be included, as hinted by AAP Convenor Arvind Kejriwal during a recent rally.
To curb drug trafficking, the government may deploy Home Guards to secure border regions and introduce a separate allocation for drug prevention efforts. Additionally, the budget could see an increase in Emergency Response Vehicles and enhancements to the state’s emergency helpline, 112. Commenting on the upcoming budget, Congress MLA from Abohar, Sandeep Jakhar, expressed cautious optimism, stating, "We should remain hopeful. Many development projects in Abohar and Balluana remain pending, and we expect necessary allocations in this budget." Meanwhile, the Punjab government has shifted its anti-drug strategy from general enforcement to targeted actions against major traffickers. Under Chief Minister Mann and Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav’s leadership, the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign was launched on March 1, 2025.
An official statement revealed that since the campaign's inception, 3,957 drug smugglers have been arrested, and 2,248 FIRs have been registered. Law enforcement has seized large quantities of contraband, including 137.7 kg of heroin. In a decisive move, CM Mann and DGP Yadav have instructed all Police Commissioners (CPs) and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) to compile a detailed list of key drug suppliers in their districts within a week. The directive, issued through a strongly worded letter, underscores the government’s commitment to systematically dismantling drug supply networks in the state.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
WASHINGTON/MOSCOW/KYIV — The United States secured separate agreements on Tuesday (March 25) with Russia and Ukraine to pause hostilities at sea and on energy infrastructure, while also pledging to advocate for easing some sanctions on Moscow. Although the specifics of the Black Sea maritime security deal remain unclear, the agreements mark the first formal commitments between the warring nations since President Donald Trump took office. Trump has been actively pushing for an end to the Ukraine conflict and a swift reconciliation with Moscow, a stance that has raised concerns in Kyiv and across Europe.
The U.S. deal with Russia extends beyond the one with Ukraine, as Washington committed to seeking the removal of certain international sanctions on Russian agricultural and fertilizer exports—long-standing demands from Moscow. Following the U.S. announcement, the Kremlin stated that the Black Sea agreement would not take effect unless Russia regained access to international financial systems for some of its banks. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy argued that the truce did not hinge on sanctions relief and should take effect immediately, accusing Moscow of attempting to "manipulate" the terms.
"They are already twisting the agreements and deceiving both our intermediaries and the global community," Zelenskiy said in his nightly address. Both Kyiv and Moscow indicated that they would rely on Washington to enforce the deals, though each side expressed skepticism about the other's commitment. "We require clear guarantees," said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. "Given our past experiences with agreements solely involving Kyiv, the only reliable guarantees would come from direct orders by Washington to Zelenskiy and his administration."
Zelenskiy stated that any Russian violations would prompt him to request Trump to impose additional sanctions on Moscow and increase military aid to Ukraine. "We do not trust Russia, but we will remain constructive," he added. Despite the agreements, reports surfaced of drone attacks by both sides in the hours following the announcement, though no immediate damage was confirmed on Black Sea or energy targets. Meanwhile, in an interview with Newsmax, Trump acknowledged that Russia might be stalling efforts to end the war. "I think Russia wants to see it end, but they could be dragging their feet. I've done that before," he remarked.
Path to a Wider Ceasefire: The agreements emerged from parallel negotiations in Saudi Arabia, following Trump's separate calls with Putin and Zelenskiy last week. If successfully implemented, they could mark a significant step toward Trump's broader goal of securing a more comprehensive ceasefire in the ongoing war. Trump had proposed a 30-day full ceasefire, which Ukraine supported, but Putin rejected.
"We're making great progress," Trump told reporters, while noting the "tremendous animosity" in discussions. "There is a lot of hatred, as you can see, but it also provides an opportunity for mediation and negotiation to stop the conflict. I believe it will work," he added. Recent U.S. rhetoric toward Russia has softened, with Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, stating that he did not view Putin as a "bad guy," a remark that unsettled European officials wary of Moscow's intentions.
Lavrov dismissed Witkoff’s optimism, claiming it overlooked the influence of European leaders who, in his view, sought to pressure Zelenskiy into maintaining a hardline stance. "He overestimates Europe's elites, who aim to burden Zelenskiy to prevent any concessions," Lavrov said. Ukraine and its European allies fear that Trump may negotiate a deal favoring Russia, potentially undermining their security by pressuring Kyiv to abandon NATO aspirations and cede contested territories to Moscow.
Temporary Halt on Energy Strikes: The Kremlin confirmed that it had agreed with the U.S. to suspend attacks on energy targets in both Russia and Ukraine for 30 days, starting from March 18—when Putin first discussed the matter with Trump. Moscow also signaled openness to extending the arrangement. Ukraine had previously insisted that any such agreement required formalized terms. Both nations have targeted each other's energy infrastructure throughout the war—Russia has used missiles and drones to damage Ukraine’s power grid, while Kyiv has struck Russian oil and gas facilities. These attacks have played a crucial role in weakening each other's war capabilities.
While the temporary halt in energy strikes is a new initiative, the Black Sea security deal revisits a longstanding issue. Early in the war, Russia effectively blockaded Ukraine’s ports, exacerbating a global food crisis due to Ukraine’s role as a major grain exporter. Although maritime conflicts have become less frequent, Russia’s continued aerial assaults have disrupted Ukrainian exports. Zelenskiy stated that the agreement would prohibit such strikes.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov warned that any movement of Russian military vessels outside the eastern Black Sea would be considered a violation, granting Ukraine the right to respond. Moscow, however, maintained that the deal required additional concessions, including restoring Russian agricultural export bank links to the SWIFT international payment system. Such measures would likely require agreement from European nations.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.
GE Aerospace has delivered the first of 99 F-404 engines to HAL for India’s Tejas Mk-1A jets. This supply aims to expedite jet deliveries to the IAF. The F404-IN20 engine, tailored for Tejas, offers enhanced thrust and advanced components. Production resumed after a five-year hiatus, overcoming pandemic-related challenges.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Business Standard.
In the latest episode of Destination Anywhere, host Melanie Oliveiro explores Scarce City, an immersive interactive experience currently on display at the National Gallery Singapore. Blending art, technology, and thought-provoking gameplay, the exhibition offers visitors a unique and reflective journey. Its creator, Elizabeth Mak, sheds light on the project’s innovative 3D-printed environment, crafted entirely from recycled plastic, emphasizing both its artistic impact and its deeper message about humanity’s relationship with resources. Scarce City challenges audiences to reconsider what it means to have enough in a world preoccupied with scarcity, encouraging reflection on global consumption patterns and sustainability. Through its striking visuals and interactive design, the exhibition serves as a compelling commentary on modern society’s fixation with limited supplies.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA News.
A recent IATA survey indicates that 37% of ground handling professionals expect the staffing shortages to continue, even as the aviation industry shows signs of post-Covid recovery. Despite the rebound in air travel, these shortages remain a pressing issue for the sector.
At the same time, employers are facing new challenges as today’s workforce increasingly values work that goes beyond a simple paycheck. Workers are now seeking roles that offer meaning and additional value, prompting companies to rethink their strategies. In this context, Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman explore how organizations can implement a people-first approach while still meeting operational demands, drawing insights from Maggie Wong, Chief Operating Officer of Hong Kong Airport Services.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA News.
Living a Complete Life on Your Own Terms had been single for a decade and believed having a child might not be an option for her. Although she had considered solo parenthood, the financial burden seemed too overwhelming to pursue it.
Her perspective shifted when she met Tom Hayes. Tom worked at the Hive, an arts center in Shrewsbury, where she served as a trustee. Their friendship quickly developed as they connected over a shared experience—many of their friends in Shrewsbury had children, which made socializing more difficult. They found themselves excluded from gatherings and missed the spontaneity of meeting up for a drink. This shared feeling of isolation became the foundation of their bond.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The guardion.
Renny Goh had always dreamed of becoming a musician, but her parents set a clear condition—she had to complete a degree before fully pursuing her passion. While studying at the National University of Singapore (NUS), she refused to put her musical aspirations on hold. She actively performed with her band, recorded cover songs for YouTube, and took on gigs whenever she could, balancing both academics and her artistic pursuits.
However, it was a life-altering moment within her family that gave her the clarity she needed. When her cousin had a near-death experience, Renny was confronted with the fragility of life and the urgency of chasing her dreams. This event solidified her decision to take a bold step forward. She set her sights on Los Angeles, determined to carve out a path in the music industry despite the challenges.
In this episode of A Letter to Myself, Renny shares her journey with host Joel Chua, reflecting on how she navigated an unconventional route—one that defied traditional expectations in Singapore but ultimately brought her closer to her true calling.
Disclaimer: This Podcast is taken from CNA.
