This page has a collection of my latest published stories.
For older stories, head here for technology stories, travel and culture stories, stories from my three-month journalism fellowship in Germany
Pressefreiheit in Indien: Wie unabhängige Medien dem Druck standhalten
Press freedom in India: How independent media is facing the pressures of operating in the country. Freedom of the press is enshrined in India’s 1949 constitution. However, since the BJP came to power in 2014, the country has dropped 21 points in the international rankings. Some independent media are trying to withstand the pressure. A feature for Deutschlandfunk Hintergrund by Lena Toepler and Nimish Sawant
Indian underwent one of the strictest lockdowns anywhere on the planet. What was life like in a regular Mumbai society during the harsh months of the lockdown in a city that never sleeps? A radio feature by Lena Topler and Nimish Sawant for SWR2
On February 23, 2024, German lawmakers approved the partial legalisation of cannabis in Germany, with 407 MPs voting for it and 226 voting against it; adults can possess up to 25 gm while outside, 50 gm at home, and three marijuana plants per person can be grown at home; Christian Democrats call the law an ‘absolute mistake’.
Germany sees waves of protests against rise of far-right extremism
The protests follow an investigative report about a secret meeting on an alleged ‘masterplan for remigration’, published by a news outlet; for many Germans, the term ‘remigration’ triggers memories of the Nazi policies of deportation; right-leaning AfD faces a lot of backlash.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, in a video address, stressed the importance of agriculture for Germany but also noted that the sector must accept compromises; a common sentiment that many farmers expressed was a fear of Germany having to rely on importing fresh produce and grocery items
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