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On This Day: 17th October

On October 17, 2017, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) declared victory in Raqqa, capturing the last major stronghold of the Islamic State (ISIS) in Syria. This event marked a significant turning point in both the Syrian Civil War and the global fight against terrorism. Key points: 1. Raqqa had served as the de facto capital of ISIS's self-proclaimed caliphate since 2014. 2. The battle for Raqqa lasted approximately four months, involving intense urban warfare and coalition airstrikes. 3. The SDF, a multi-ethnic alliance dominated by Kurdish fighters, led the ground offensive with support from U.S.-led coalition forces. 4. The fall of Raqqa effectively ended ISIS's territorial control in Syria, though the group continued to operate as an insurgency. 5. This victory came at a high cost, with significant civilian casualties and widespread destruction of the city. Implications: 1. Dealt a major blow to ISIS's operational capabilities and propaganda efforts. 2. Shifted the dynamics of the Syrian Civil War, altering the balance of power among various factions. 3. Raised questions about post-ISIS governance and reconstruction in liberated areas. 4. Highlighted the role of Kurdish forces in the region, influencing subsequent geopolitical tensions. The capture of Raqqa demonstrated the effectiveness of international cooperation in combating terrorism but also exposed the complexities of post-conflict stabilization and reconstruction.

India Unfazed by Trump's Presidential Win

- External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated that India is not nervous about Donald Trump's victory in the US presidential elections. - PM Modi's rapport with multiple US presidents, including Trump, has strengthened India-US relations. - Jaishankar highlighted India's growing global influence and opportunities for Indian talent and businesses. Source: [Hindustan Times](https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-not-nervous-about-us-elections-outcome-says-jaishankar-101731255485411.html), [Mint](https://www.livemint.com/news/external-affairs-minister-jaishankar-aditya-birla-scholarships-programme-india-us-11731247132912.html)

My notes as a super early Swigster

Today is surreal. Seeing Swiggy on the NSE feels like a personal victory, not just for the founders or investors, but for each of us who joined back in the early days when Swiggy was just a scrappy idea. I was lucky to be one of the first 60 to jump on board - drawn in by the vision and the almost impossible energy of the founding team. Back then, we were a tight-knit group, hustling in cramped rooms, working crazy hours to solve what seemed like simple problems but were anything but. I still remember late nights debating over how to shave 2 minutes off delivery times or how to keep our early partners happy. It was all about building trust - with customers, with riders, with restaurants and with each other. Swiggy is a product of passion, perseverance, and a touch of madness. I was lucky to manage a significant P&L while I was there, a challenge and privilege that taught me more about business than any textbook ever could. It was a dream to work alongside a crew that genuinely believed we were building something that could change lives. And here we are - Swiggy is the best consumer product India has seen, a true blueprint for what’s possible. Now, I’m pouring my heart into my own startup, and I find myself thinking back to those Swiggy days all the time. If I can build something even half as good, I’ll be proud. To the team, the founders, and all those who believed in us from day one - thank you. Today’s listing is a reminder that sometimes, all it takes is a handful of crazy people with a vision and a lot of grit to build something legendary. 

Also, before the comment section goes berserk on how much I made - officially a $$ millionaire now just purely on my Swiggy holdings. Thanks to Harsha for pushing me to take more ESOPs over cash early on - was really pissed at you folks back then but guess it paid off😂👏🏽