FIFA Awards Inaugural Peace Prize To US President Donald Trump At 2026 World Cup Draw

On this Special Report, Gaurav Sawant, Senior Executive Editor at India Today, discusses the 'Mood of the Nation' survey conducted with C-Voter regarding India's foreign policy. The data reveals a significant shift in public perception, with 54% of respondents stating that India-US relations have worsened during Donald Trump’s second term. Gaurav Sawant notes that 'the relationship is steadily going downhill' amidst concerns over Trump’s tariffs. The survey highlights that 45% of participants believe India should retaliate with reciprocal tariffs, while only 6% suggest accepting US demands. The panel, including Geeta Mohan and Rajdeep Sardesai, further examines India's complex dynamics with its neighbours. While 51% see improved relations with countries like Maldives and Sri Lanka due to India's assistance, challenges remain with Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal. The programme explores whether the current diplomatic collapse can be arrested amidst a 'Trumpian world of disorder' and shifting global trade alliances, including the recent India-EU free trade agreement.

On this news bulletin, the focus is on India's employment landscape and the public's perception of the government's job creation efforts. Congress spokesperson Salman Anees Soz highlights a concerning trend, stating, 'India is one of only two G20 countries where agricultural employment has gone up after the pandemic,' which he interprets as a sign of economic distress. The discussion features a debate between Soz and BJP's Zafar Islam over UPA versus NDA economic records. While survey data suggests a 'dual mood' of approval and anxiety among the public, Soz predicts that changes to MGNREGA and shifted spending to states will lead to a 'double whammy' for the economy. Conversely, Zafar Islam defends the current administration, citing structural reforms and India's rise to the world's fourth-largest economy as evidence of stability and growth despite global headwinds.

On this Special Report, editor Rajdeep Sardesai leads a panel discussion on the latest 'Mood of the Nation' survey following the tabling of the Economic Survey 2026 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The data reveals a significant 9% increase in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's economic approval rating since August 2025, with 54% of respondents preferring his leadership over former PM Manmohan Singh. Sardesai notes, 'It is real livelihood issues that affect people that was a concern over the economy at the time.' The programme examines the impact of next-generation GST reforms, new labour codes, and the trade deal with the European Union. While opposition leader Salman Soz highlights concerns over weak consumption and contracting tax collections, BJP's Zafar Islam defends the government's macro-stability. The discussion concludes that while India remains a fast-growing economy, the public experience remains split, with the survey preparing the nation for global headwinds ahead of Budget 2026.

This Special Report, led by Rajdeep Sardesai and Preeti Choudhry, analyzes the January 2026 'Mood of the Nation' poll featuring over 125,000 respondents. The survey projects a significant victory for the NDA with 352 seats, while the BJP alone is projected at 287 seats. Data indicates the NDA is returning with an increased vote share and seat share. The program evaluates Rahul Gandhi’s performance as Leader of the Opposition, noting a 44% positive rating despite a slight decline since August 2025. Panellists Yashwant Deshmukh and Raj Chengappa discuss election freebies, noting 50% of the public opposes doles while 44% believe the Election Commission should intervene. Analysis shows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s popularity remains stable despite concerns regarding unemployment and price rises. Political stability is now cited as the government's primary success over the Ram Temple or Article 370. While a majority believe Congress should lead the opposition, 62% of respondents identify the party as the weakest link within the India bloc.