Hafta letters: Video games, weakening economy, online betting

Yoshimitsu

I have been longing to ask Shardool to discuss games (because games are not just games; they represent culture, technology, and politics). After listening to him talk about the Wukong game in Hafta Ep. 551, I request/suggest a special episode on game review/discussion on the A&A entertainment wrap. Maybe feature Meghnerd as well? I have heard about a book from my childhood where the plot is that plants speak to a guy and guide him through a forest. I have been searching for the title of that book. I want to give a shoutout here, so if anyone knows, they can suggest. Thank you.

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Anonymous

India’s foreign policy looks weaker than ever, with strained ties with all neighbours and the U.S. slapping 50 percent tariffs. Cheap Russian oil has brought no real benefit to citizens, while labour‑intensive sectors are losing millions of jobs. At the same time, 41 emerging market funds are reducing exposure to India and putting their money into China, Korea, and Indonesia. Foreign investors are pulling out, FDI has fallen to its lowest level since 2004, and GDP growth forecasts are being cut by up to 1 percent. Corporate capex is stuck at a decade low, and both rural and urban demand remain flat, showing that the economy is struggling. Yet, many Indians still defend the Modi cabinet, calling criticism “America’s jealousy,” instead of facing economic reality. What more needs to happen before people wake up to this crisis?

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Madan Sharma

Lately, I have noticed an increase in source-based news in newspapers, especially if it supports the government’s version of events. What is your opinion on source-based news?

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Kumud Shankar

Regarding the discussion on the online real-money gaming ban, I’ve a conspiratorial angle. We don’t have numbers to show how many people were ruined due to them. The government’s own numbers claim around 450 million users. These are people hooked to real-money games. Will they be easy pickings for the organised illegal betting rackets? Are you guys aware of Satta kings on Telegram or people who organise innocuous-looking ludo matches for a fee, all outside the purview of law? Another point is with respect to the ethicality of celebrity endorsement for such apps. 

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Mohsin AK 

Please help! How can I be a subscribing member and listen to Hafta on Spotify? The app buffers a good minute before it starts. Or help with an easier way, please! I miss out on my Hafta because of this.

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