This report from India Today covers the citizens’ protest at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar against the severe air pollution crisis plaguing the National Capital Region. The bulletin highlights the public’s frustration over the ‘very poor’ to ‘severe’ air quality index and alleged government inaction. It also takes an in-depth look at the growing ‘smog economy’ where businesses are monetizing clean air through wellness retreats, premium real estate with pure air systems and advanced personal purifiers, turning a basic necessity into a luxury item. During the demonstration, a placard held by a child read, ‘Mother, who polluted the air, why is no one helping us?’ The story explains how the public health crisis has created a new market, widening the gap between those who can and those who can breathe clean air.

In a heated phone call with a journalist, RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav’s daughter Rohini Acharya questioned why her brother did not donate a kidney to their father. During the conversation, she is heard asking, ‘The son did not give.’ The confrontation took place after a viral video in which the journalist advised that a married daughter should not stay at her parents’ house for long. India Today’s Rohit Singh reported that this was the trigger for the phone call. Acharya, who donated a kidney to her father in 2022, also challenged the journalist and asked, ‘Do you have the courage to donate a bottle of blood?’ The incident makes public the ongoing tensions in the family, highlighting her sensitivity regarding kidney donation and traditional family roles.

The report focuses on the India-US trade deal, with Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal indicating that it could be finalized soon. The minister stressed that India will not succumb to external pressure and will give priority to the interests of its farmers and fishermen in any agreement. According to the transcript, talks have been ongoing since March, with six rounds completed. ‘Whenever the deal is fair, equitable and balanced, you will hear good,’ Mr Goyal said. The discussion highlights that fairness and equity are prerequisites for India before signing bilateral trade agreements, ensuring that key sectors of the country are protected.

The report covers the political friction within Maharashtra’s ruling Mahayuti alliance, focusing on Aaditya Thackeray’s reaction to the alleged boycott of the cabinet meeting by Shiv Sena ministers. The boycott is reportedly due to claims of horse-trading at the local body level by their ally BJP. Thackeray criticized the move and questioned the functioning of the state government when ministers boycott meetings meant to address public concerns. Responding to the infighting, Aaditya Thackeray said that ‘there may be internal issues, but boycotting the cabinet meeting is unacceptable. This is very selfish and the cabinet meeting is to discuss people’s issues and Maharashtra’s issues. The bulletin highlights Thackeray’s sharp criticism of the government’s internal strife and its impact on governance in the state.