As Biden administration decides to add Qatar to America’s list of major non-NATO allies, Shekhar Gupta looks at the strategic significance of Qatar, its rich resources and changing relations with Europe. In Episode 931 of CutTheClutter, we also look at the recent row over Jinnah Tower in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh.

It will be used in six other states too. Corbevax of Biological E is also expected to start coming in this month. No decision so far on the government procuring Covovax.

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https://theprint.in/health/5-months-after-nod-zycov-d-set-for-rollout-in-7-states-bihar-starts-getting-1st-set-of-shots/818135/

Many democracies understand the need for lawful surveillance against serious crimes. Few provide the executive such sweeping powers like India does.

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https://theprint.in/opinion/security-code/pegasus-scandal-shows-how-lawless-indias-lawful-interception-has-become/818982/?amp

As the Ukraine conflict soars, Chinese social media users say it’s time to liberate Taiwan too in a similar way.

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https://theprint.in/opinion/eye-on-china/chinese-tiger-and-russian-bear-together-again-beijing-has-openly-picked-side-in-ukraine/818470/

Credits: BBC, CBS, Associated Press, and CNBC International TV. 

Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget on the eve of a major upcoming election. In Episode 930 of CutTheClutter, Shekhar Gupta looks at key highlights of the Budget 2022-23 and analyses where the political economy of India is headed.

The court pulled up police for dismissing claims that forced conversion attempts by missionary school had led to Class 12 girl’s suicide, saying allegations needed further investigation.

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https://theprint.in/judiciary/nothing-improbable-about-conversion-says-madras-hc-orders-cbi-probe-into-girls-suicide/817725/?amp