Arpita Sarkar

In the last decade, podcasts have transformed from a niche interest to a mainstream phenomenon. With over 100 million people in the U.S. tuning into podcasts regularly, this audio-first platform has caught the attention of journalists, media companies, and news consumers alike. But what does this mean for traditional news media? Is podcasting a competitor, a complement, or a tool for innovation in journalism? This blog explores the growing influence of podcasts on the media industry, analyzing how they’ve shaped news consumption, their impact on traditional journalism, and how news organizations are adapting to this new form of storytelling. The Rise of Podcasting in the Media Landscape Podcasting began as a relatively small medium, often associated with niche topics and indie creators. However, as technology has evolved, so has the appeal of podcasts. Today, news outlets, from The New York Times to NPR, have embraced podcasting as an essential way to engage with audiences. The abi...

Introduction In 2025, record-breaking heatwaves are no longer rare — they are the new normal. Cities are scorching, crops are failing, and health emergencies are surging across continents. As temperatures climb to unprecedented levels, scientists warn that we are entering an era of "super heatwaves," with devastating consequences for both people and ecosystems. This post unpacks why today's heatwaves are deadlier, what’s driving the trend, and how governments and citizens are responding — or failing to. What's Different About Heatwaves in 2025? Heatwaves have always been part of Earth's climate, but what we are witnessing today is unprecedented in three ways: Longer Duration: Heatwaves now last weeks instead of days. Higher Intensity: Many cities have crossed the 50°C (122°F) mark — a threshold once thought unimaginable. Wider Spread: Regions historically considered "safe" — like Northern Europe and Canada — are facing severe heat events....

 Introduction In 2025, cinema lovers are witnessing a profound shift: regional films are no longer niche — they are commanding national and even global attention. From Malayalam and Marathi cinema to Korean dramas and African storytelling, audiences are moving beyond Bollywood and Hollywood, discovering new languages, cultures, and cinematic styles. In this report, we explore how regional cinema has emerged as a major force, featuring exclusive insights from filmmakers, producers, and film critics. Regional Films on the Global Stage In the past year, Indian regional films like the Kannada masterpiece “Vedanta” and the Marathi drama “Dhaga” premiered at international festivals, winning critical acclaim. Similarly, Korean thrillers, Nigerian dramas, and Spanish romantic comedies are topping Netflix charts globally. Film festival curator Aparna Nair says, "What’s happening now is a democratization of storytelling. Audiences are no longer bound by language barriers, thanks to ...

As the early morning mist lifts over the fields of Punjab and Haryana, a familiar sight returns — tractors adorned with flags, farmers gathered in solidarity, and a new wave of protests sweeping across the heartland. Nearly four years after the historic 2020-21 movement, India's farmers are once again rallying for their rights, voicing concerns over unfulfilled promises and demanding stronger legal guarantees. In this special ground report, we bring you firsthand interviews with farmers, union leaders, and experts who explain the new dimensions of the struggle and what it could mean for the nation’s agricultural future. What Sparked the New Protest? At the core of Farmers’ Protest 2.0 are several pressing demands: a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Prices (MSP), comprehensive loan waivers to relieve crippling debt, and a national pension scheme for farmers and farm workers. Many farmers feel that the assurances given after the 2021 protests have not materialized, and the situa...

Artificial intelligence is transforming industries, shaping societies, and raising ethical concerns worldwide. As AI advances rapidly, key figures in technology are grappling with questions about its responsible use, implications for humanity, and potential pitfalls. This blog shares insights from leading AI researchers, developers, and ethicists on the moral dilemmas posed by AI and the need for ethical frameworks. Section 1: The Ethical Dilemmas of AI From facial recognition to algorithmic bias, AI presents challenges that require vigilance. Key issues include: Data Privacy : How can we ensure user data is protected when AI systems rely heavily on vast amounts of information? Bias and Fairness : What steps can developers take to minimize discriminatory outcomes from AI algorithms? Autonomous Decision-Making : Should AI be granted autonomy in critical areas like healthcare or warfare, and who bears responsibility for its decisions? Section 2: Expert Insights Interviews with AI ex...

Introduction: With record-breaking heat waves, floods, and wildfires dominating headlines, it's no longer enough for cities to simply aim for sustainability — they must now become resilient. In 2025, urban centers worldwide are rapidly innovating to adapt to the realities of a changing climate. But what does building a resilient city actually mean? The New Face of Climate Adaptation Traditionally, environmental action focused on reducing emissions — an essential goal. But resilience is about surviving and thriving despite climate shocks that are already inevitable. Key elements of resilient cities include: Green infrastructure like urban forests and wetlands to absorb floodwaters. Heat mitigation strategies such as reflective roofs and shaded streets. Localized energy grids that can operate during major disasters. Social resilience programs to protect vulnerable communities during crises. Case Study: Rotterdam, Netherlands Rotterdam, one of Europe’s lowest-lying cities, has embrace...

The term "trade war" gained significant traction during Donald Trump's presidency, as he adopted an aggressive stance on international trade. His administration, particularly from 2017 to 2021, implemented protectionist policies aimed at reducing the U.S. trade deficit and bringing manufacturing jobs back to American soil. However, these policies had far-reaching implications, not just for the U.S. but also for global economies. The Origins of Trump's Trade War Donald Trump's "America First" economic policy was at the heart of his trade war strategy. He argued that unfair trade practices, particularly by China, were harming American industries. As a response, he imposed tariffs on billions of dollars' worth of Chinese goods, prompting retaliatory tariffs from China. This tit-for-tat escalation led to significant disruptions in global supply chains and market volatility. Key Policies and Their Impact Tariffs on China – In 2018, Trump imposed tariffs ...