August 29, 2026

July 2026

For nearly 50 years, China has placed straw grids across its deserts; desertified land is now shrinking by over 1,000 sq km a year, but scientists say the fight is far from over

For nearly 50 years, China has placed straw grids across its deserts; desertified land is now shrinking by over 1,000 sq km a year, but scientists say the fight is far from over

Vamsikrishna08 mins mins

Desert control worker Yin Yuzhen walks along sand dunes covered by grass checkerboard that’s part of desertification control efforts at the Engebei Ecological Area near Ordos in northern China’s Inner Mongolia province on Friday, June 12, 2026. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan) Across the deserts of northern China, a quiet, repetitive movement has played out for…

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KCET counselling 2026: Round 1 final seat allotment result out; direct link to download here

KCET counselling 2026: Round 1 final seat allotment result out; direct link to download here

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has announced the Karnataka Common Entrance Test (KCET) 2026 Round 1 final seat allotment result for admission to undergraduate courses today, July 15. Candidates who participated in the first round of the Undergraduate Common Entrance Test (UGCET) counselling can now check their allotment status on the official website, cetonline.karnataka.gov.in.To access…

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‘Hindus and Sikhs of Punjab are watching the movie together,’ says ‘Satluj’ director Honey Trehan, slamming claims of it being a propanda film: ‘People were peacefully watching’

‘Hindus and Sikhs of Punjab are watching the movie together,’ says ‘Satluj’ director Honey Trehan, slamming claims of it being a propanda film: ‘People were peacefully watching’

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Amid the controversy surrounding ‘Satluj’, director Honey Trehan has dismissed allegations that his Diljit Dosanjh-starrer is a propaganda film, capable of disturbing communal harmony. Addressing the controversy surrounding the film, the director asserted that the response on the ground tells a different story, claiming that Hindus and Sikhs in Punjab have been watching the film…

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Home Remedies For Mosquitoes: 5 simple remedies with home ingredients to keep mosquitoes away from your home this monsoon (You might find some right in your kitchen)

Home Remedies For Mosquitoes: 5 simple remedies with home ingredients to keep mosquitoes away from your home this monsoon (You might find some right in your kitchen)

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Monsoon season brings mosquitoes and mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue and malaria. Several home remedies offer effective and health-friendly mosquito protection. Essential oils such as neem and citronella can be used in sprays or diffusers. Camphor and garlic sprays create natural barriers against these bothersome insects. Certain plants and lemon with cloves also help deter mosquitoes…

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Scientists cut climbing vines from a damaged Borneo forest. Its canopy then grew three times faster, and the method may cost 10 times less than tree planting

Scientists cut climbing vines from a damaged Borneo forest. Its canopy then grew three times faster, and the method may cost 10 times less than tree planting

Vamsikrishna05 mins mins

Dipterocarp forest at the Danum Valley Field Centre. Borneo’s tropical forests, dominated by trees from the Dipterocarp family, have some of the highest canopies in the world, with some trees reaching 100 meters Simply cutting back aggressive climbing vines in logged tropical forests allows the tree canopy to recover three times faster than planting new…

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Tom Cruise breaks down extensive make-up process for ‘Digger’; reveals Inarritu tied the look: ‘You look at the taste of this man’ |

Tom Cruise breaks down extensive make-up process for ‘Digger’; reveals Inarritu tied the look: ‘You look at the taste of this man’ |

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Tom Cruise, the charismatic and invincible action star, dons a new mask for Alejandro González Iñárritu’s upcoming dark comedy-satire, ‘Digger.’ The four-time Academy Award nominee revealed that he put on layers of makeup and costumes to communicate through physicality. Making his first non-franchise film in almost a decade, the 64-year-old found his lenses, colour, and…

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Jagannath Rath Yatra on July 16, 2026: Date, rituals, significance and how it is celebrated?

Jagannath Rath Yatra on July 16, 2026: Date, rituals, significance and how it is celebrated?

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Jagannatha Rath Yatra 2026: One of the most important Hindu festivals is the Jagannatha Rath Yatra, which has a deep religious significance. This celebration will take place on July 16, 2026, the Dwitiya Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadha. In Odisha, people commemorate this festival. Lord Jagannatha, Lord Balbhadra, and Goddess Subhadra…

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England vs. Argentina at FIFA World Cup 2026: How to watch, TV channels, live streaming details for USA, UK, India, Australia and more

England vs. Argentina at FIFA World Cup 2026: How to watch, TV channels, live streaming details for USA, UK, India, Australia and more

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Where can you watch England vs. Argentina (Via Getty Images) England and Argentina renew one of football’s fiercest international rivalries when they meet in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal on Wednesday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. A place in the final is at stake, but the spotlight also falls on the race for the…

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Iran says 30 civilians killed in US strikes as Trump warns of ‘hitting them harder’

Iran says 30 civilians killed in US strikes as Trump warns of ‘hitting them harder’

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Representative Image (Source: Reuters) Iran said more than 30 civilians have been killed in recent US strikes on southern Iran, as US President Donald Trump warned that Washington would target Iranian power plants and bridges next week unless Tehran returns to the negotiating table.Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani said on X that the strikes had killed…

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Mamata stands firmly behind nephew amid rebellion in TMC NEW DELHI: Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday strongly defended her nephew and party’s national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, saying he had ‘done no wrong’ and would remain in politics for the next 50 years. Her remarks came as the party continues to face defections and an internal rebellion over his growing influence.Earlier in the day, senior TMC MLA Madan Mitra quit the Mamata Banerjee-led faction and joined the rival camp headed by Ritabrata Banerjee. Mitra had blamed Abhishek Banerjee’s leadership style for his decision and claimed his request for Abhishek to step aside temporarily had been rejected.Addressing party workers through a Facebook live interaction, Mamata dismissed the criticism against Abhishek and accused rebel leaders of unfairly targeting him.”They should learn from Abhishek Banerjee. Had they managed things better, perhaps they too could have obtained relief. Those who are now claiming that Abhishek Banerjee is making excuses should remember that he is holding up a mirror to them. Their criticism is merely an excuse to target him. They know Abhishek has done no wrong. That is precisely why they are afraid that he will remain in politics for the next 50 years,” she said.Backing her nephew, Mamata said Abhishek had faced investigations without compromising.”Abhishek Banerjee has been turned into an excuse. His family members were summoned. Had he wanted, he could have got relief. But he did not run away from the battlefield. The way he has continued to fight, all his flaws have been forgiven. He is fighting like a tiger,” she said.Striking a defiant note, Mamata accused the BJP of using central agencies and police to engineer defections and said she was prepared to rebuild the Trinamool Congress from scratch if necessary. She also alleged that her political opponents wanted her dead.”They wanted me to suffer a heart attack. But I will live till I see your end,” she said.Referring to Madan Mitra’s exit, Mamata linked his decision to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) summons issued to his wife and two sons in connection with the alleged municipal recruitment scam.”We understood that Madan Mitra might switch camps as he and his family had received summons; those who have a ‘setting’ are joining BJP’s ‘washing machine’,” she said.The TMC chief also alleged that central agencies and police were being used to engineer defections from her party.”We still have 18 MPs in Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha; those MPs who have joined ‘setting company’ have done so because they are afraid of police,” she said.She asserted that a few leaders leaving would not weaken the party.”A few leaders leaving party won’t weaken TMC, will continue our fight as people’s love remains our ultimate symbol,” she said.Mamata also apologised to the people for the actions of leaders who had left the party.”We have learnt lessons, want to apologise on behalf of ‘traitors’ who sided with BJP,” she said.The TMC chief vowed to rebuild the organisation if required, saying the party had overcome difficult phases before and would continue its political fight.The latest development come amid the biggest organisational crisis in the TMC since its formation in 1998. Several senior leaders and MLAs have joined the rival faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee, with many blaming Abhishek Banerjee’s growing authority within the party.The rebellion has also spread to Parliament, with several Lok Sabha MPs breaking away from the Mamata Banerjee-led camp. Rival groups are now operating parallel organisational structures, making the leadership battle the central issue within the party.Mamata’s latest remarks are seen as her strongest public endorsement of Abhishek Banerjee since the split, signalling that she remains firmly behind him despite the growing rebellion and continued defections from the party.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PACMP Draft UCC Proposes Jail For Unregistered Live-In Relationships, Mandatory RegistrationMajor Blow To TMC As 20 Rebel MPs Move Closer To Official NCPI Recognition | Watch5 Plots, 4 Flats, Villa: ACB Raid On HMDA Engineer Exposes Rs 9.24 Crore Assets | HyderabadIndia-UK Trade Deal Kicks In From July 15, 99% Of Indian Exports Get Duty-Free AccessSupreme Court Refuses Stay In Bhojshala Case, Allows Alternate Namaz Site Till Final Verdict123Photostories10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adultsHermès, Chanel, and beyond: Inside the designer bag collections of the World Cup’s elite footballers9 signs someone is emotionally safe to date, according to psychologists5 washing machine cleaning tips that can make your clothes smell freshNitin Gadkari swears by this vitamin C-rich soup—Here’s why it’s worth trying in monsoonAmla shots for hair growth: 5 powerful ingredients to blend for maximum benefitsPaneer is packed with protein, but do you know how many calories are hidden in your 10 favourite paneer dishes?Discover your spiritual Goddess based on your birth dateMichelle Obama’s parents never promised her the world would be fair, they promised something better: “Come home we…”123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseBengaluru CapgeminiTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war

Mamata stands firmly behind nephew amid rebellion in TMC NEW DELHI: Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday strongly defended her nephew and party’s national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, saying he had ‘done no wrong’ and would remain in politics for the next 50 years. Her remarks came as the party continues to face defections and an internal rebellion over his growing influence.Earlier in the day, senior TMC MLA Madan Mitra quit the Mamata Banerjee-led faction and joined the rival camp headed by Ritabrata Banerjee. Mitra had blamed Abhishek Banerjee’s leadership style for his decision and claimed his request for Abhishek to step aside temporarily had been rejected.Addressing party workers through a Facebook live interaction, Mamata dismissed the criticism against Abhishek and accused rebel leaders of unfairly targeting him.”They should learn from Abhishek Banerjee. Had they managed things better, perhaps they too could have obtained relief. Those who are now claiming that Abhishek Banerjee is making excuses should remember that he is holding up a mirror to them. Their criticism is merely an excuse to target him. They know Abhishek has done no wrong. That is precisely why they are afraid that he will remain in politics for the next 50 years,” she said.Backing her nephew, Mamata said Abhishek had faced investigations without compromising.”Abhishek Banerjee has been turned into an excuse. His family members were summoned. Had he wanted, he could have got relief. But he did not run away from the battlefield. The way he has continued to fight, all his flaws have been forgiven. He is fighting like a tiger,” she said.Striking a defiant note, Mamata accused the BJP of using central agencies and police to engineer defections and said she was prepared to rebuild the Trinamool Congress from scratch if necessary. She also alleged that her political opponents wanted her dead.”They wanted me to suffer a heart attack. But I will live till I see your end,” she said.Referring to Madan Mitra’s exit, Mamata linked his decision to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) summons issued to his wife and two sons in connection with the alleged municipal recruitment scam.”We understood that Madan Mitra might switch camps as he and his family had received summons; those who have a ‘setting’ are joining BJP’s ‘washing machine’,” she said.The TMC chief also alleged that central agencies and police were being used to engineer defections from her party.”We still have 18 MPs in Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha; those MPs who have joined ‘setting company’ have done so because they are afraid of police,” she said.She asserted that a few leaders leaving would not weaken the party.”A few leaders leaving party won’t weaken TMC, will continue our fight as people’s love remains our ultimate symbol,” she said.Mamata also apologised to the people for the actions of leaders who had left the party.”We have learnt lessons, want to apologise on behalf of ‘traitors’ who sided with BJP,” she said.The TMC chief vowed to rebuild the organisation if required, saying the party had overcome difficult phases before and would continue its political fight.The latest development come amid the biggest organisational crisis in the TMC since its formation in 1998. Several senior leaders and MLAs have joined the rival faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee, with many blaming Abhishek Banerjee’s growing authority within the party.The rebellion has also spread to Parliament, with several Lok Sabha MPs breaking away from the Mamata Banerjee-led camp. Rival groups are now operating parallel organisational structures, making the leadership battle the central issue within the party.Mamata’s latest remarks are seen as her strongest public endorsement of Abhishek Banerjee since the split, signalling that she remains firmly behind him despite the growing rebellion and continued defections from the party.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PACMP Draft UCC Proposes Jail For Unregistered Live-In Relationships, Mandatory RegistrationMajor Blow To TMC As 20 Rebel MPs Move Closer To Official NCPI Recognition | Watch5 Plots, 4 Flats, Villa: ACB Raid On HMDA Engineer Exposes Rs 9.24 Crore Assets | HyderabadIndia-UK Trade Deal Kicks In From July 15, 99% Of Indian Exports Get Duty-Free AccessSupreme Court Refuses Stay In Bhojshala Case, Allows Alternate Namaz Site Till Final Verdict123Photostories10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adultsHermès, Chanel, and beyond: Inside the designer bag collections of the World Cup’s elite footballers9 signs someone is emotionally safe to date, according to psychologists5 washing machine cleaning tips that can make your clothes smell freshNitin Gadkari swears by this vitamin C-rich soup—Here’s why it’s worth trying in monsoonAmla shots for hair growth: 5 powerful ingredients to blend for maximum benefitsPaneer is packed with protein, but do you know how many calories are hidden in your 10 favourite paneer dishes?Discover your spiritual Goddess based on your birth dateMichelle Obama’s parents never promised her the world would be fair, they promised something better: “Come home we…”123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseBengaluru CapgeminiTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Mamata stands firmly behind nephew amid rebellion in TMC NEW DELHI: Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday strongly defended her nephew and party’s national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, saying he had ‘done no wrong’ and would remain in politics for the next 50 years. Her remarks came as the party continues to face…

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Meghan Markle celebrates Daytime Emmy nomination for ‘With Love, Meghan’: ‘Huge congratulations to the amazing crew…’

Meghan Markle celebrates Daytime Emmy nomination for ‘With Love, Meghan’: ‘Huge congratulations to the amazing crew…’

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

(Image Credits: Instagram) Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, earned a Daytime Emmy Nomination for her show ‘With Love, Meghan.’ The 44-year-old shared a celebratory comment on Instagram, thanking the crew, producers, and their team. Marking a significant milestone, the former actress posted a snapshot of her lifestyle show.‘With Love, Meghan’ is nominated in the…

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‘Kick Argentina out’: Why over 10 million people signed petition against Messi’s team in FIFA World Cup

‘Kick Argentina out’: Why over 10 million people signed petition against Messi’s team in FIFA World Cup

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

With eight goals so far, Lionel Messi is the joint top-scorer with France’s Kylian Mbappe Controversy over FIFA’s alleged favouritism towards Lionel Messi and Argentina refuses to die down, even as the tournament heads into its business end.Ahead of the defending champions’ semi-final clash against bitter rivals England, an online petition has been launched demanding…

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Tharoor urged Sonam Wangchuk to end his strike NEW DELHI: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday penned an open letter expressing solidarity with the students protesting at Jantar Mantar over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, while urging climate activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his indefinite hunger strike.He appealed to Wangchuk to end his fast, saying the climate activist had “awakened the conscience of the nation”. “To Shri Sonam Wangchuk-ji, my heartfelt appeal: please end your fast. You have awakened the conscience of the nation; that is what a fast is meant to do. India needs your voice for the long road ahead,” he said, in an open letter.With Parliament in session again from Monday, we will have an opportunity to raise the students’ issues in the highest forum of our democracy. That’s where the problem should be addressed, not by fasting unto death. Please heed my plea. And finally, to the Government: I respectfully urge you to reach out and engage in the dialogue our democracy owes its young citizens. That is not weakness; that is statesmanship,” he added.Further addressing the protesters as “dear young friends”, Tharoor said he was writing “not as a politician or an MP, but as someone deeply troubled by what is happening to your generation of young Indians.”Talking about his own upbringing in a middle-class family, the Congress leader said merit-based examinations had enabled him to pursue higher education and build his career, arguing that a fair examination system remains the only pathway for millions of young Indians from lower, and middle-income households.”When that ladder is broken — papers leaked, examinations cancelled, trust destroyed — the children of the rich and powerful do not suffer. They have other ladders. It is your dreams, and your families’ sacrifices… that are betrayed,” he wrote.Backing the students’ protest, Tharoor said their anger reflected “the anguish of a generation that did everything right and was still betrayed”, adding that peaceful demonstrations had given voice to the concerns of young IndiansTharoor also urged the Centre to engage with the protesters, saying dialogue with young citizens was “not weakness; that is statesmanship.”Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PACMP Draft UCC Proposes Jail For Unregistered Live-In Relationships, Mandatory RegistrationMajor Blow To TMC As 20 Rebel MPs Move Closer To Official NCPI Recognition | Watch5 Plots, 4 Flats, Villa: ACB Raid On HMDA Engineer Exposes Rs 9.24 Crore Assets | HyderabadIndia-UK Trade Deal Kicks In From July 15, 99% Of Indian Exports Get Duty-Free AccessSupreme Court Refuses Stay In Bhojshala Case, Allows Alternate Namaz Site Till Final Verdict123Photostories10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adultsHermès, Chanel, and beyond: Inside the designer bag collections of the World Cup’s elite footballers9 signs someone is emotionally safe to date, according to psychologists5 washing machine cleaning tips that can make your clothes smell freshNitin Gadkari swears by this vitamin C-rich soup—Here’s why it’s worth trying in monsoonAmla shots for hair growth: 5 powerful ingredients to blend for maximum benefitsPaneer is packed with protein, but do you know how many calories are hidden in your 10 favourite paneer dishes?Discover your spiritual Goddess based on your birth dateMichelle Obama’s parents never promised her the world would be fair, they promised something better: “Come home we…”123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseBengaluru CapgeminiTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war

Tharoor urged Sonam Wangchuk to end his strike NEW DELHI: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday penned an open letter expressing solidarity with the students protesting at Jantar Mantar over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, while urging climate activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his indefinite hunger strike.He appealed to Wangchuk to end his fast, saying the climate activist had “awakened the conscience of the nation”. “To Shri Sonam Wangchuk-ji, my heartfelt appeal: please end your fast. You have awakened the conscience of the nation; that is what a fast is meant to do. India needs your voice for the long road ahead,” he said, in an open letter.With Parliament in session again from Monday, we will have an opportunity to raise the students’ issues in the highest forum of our democracy. That’s where the problem should be addressed, not by fasting unto death. Please heed my plea. And finally, to the Government: I respectfully urge you to reach out and engage in the dialogue our democracy owes its young citizens. That is not weakness; that is statesmanship,” he added.Further addressing the protesters as “dear young friends”, Tharoor said he was writing “not as a politician or an MP, but as someone deeply troubled by what is happening to your generation of young Indians.”Talking about his own upbringing in a middle-class family, the Congress leader said merit-based examinations had enabled him to pursue higher education and build his career, arguing that a fair examination system remains the only pathway for millions of young Indians from lower, and middle-income households.”When that ladder is broken — papers leaked, examinations cancelled, trust destroyed — the children of the rich and powerful do not suffer. They have other ladders. It is your dreams, and your families’ sacrifices… that are betrayed,” he wrote.Backing the students’ protest, Tharoor said their anger reflected “the anguish of a generation that did everything right and was still betrayed”, adding that peaceful demonstrations had given voice to the concerns of young IndiansTharoor also urged the Centre to engage with the protesters, saying dialogue with young citizens was “not weakness; that is statesmanship.”Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosExplained: Why PM Modi’s July 17 Punjab Visit Is Politically Crucial Ahead Of Assembly ElectionsHigh Profile Political Meeting Rekindle Talk Of NCP Unity In Maharashtra; Patil Denies BuzzKGMU Bars Cooking Of Non-Veg Food In Hostels After Governor Flags Issue At ConvocationIndia-UK FTA: What Gets Cheaper, How Exporters Benefit And Why The Deal MattersTMC Rift Deepens As Kalyan Banerjee Launches Fresh Attack On Abhishek And I-PACMP Draft UCC Proposes Jail For Unregistered Live-In Relationships, Mandatory RegistrationMajor Blow To TMC As 20 Rebel MPs Move Closer To Official NCPI Recognition | Watch5 Plots, 4 Flats, Villa: ACB Raid On HMDA Engineer Exposes Rs 9.24 Crore Assets | HyderabadIndia-UK Trade Deal Kicks In From July 15, 99% Of Indian Exports Get Duty-Free AccessSupreme Court Refuses Stay In Bhojshala Case, Allows Alternate Namaz Site Till Final Verdict123Photostories10 baby girl names inspired by Japanese seasons and cherry blossom traditions“Send your child far away…”: Acharya Prashant says this one parenting decision can help children grow into independent adultsHermès, Chanel, and beyond: Inside the designer bag collections of the World Cup’s elite footballers9 signs someone is emotionally safe to date, according to psychologists5 washing machine cleaning tips that can make your clothes smell freshNitin Gadkari swears by this vitamin C-rich soup—Here’s why it’s worth trying in monsoonAmla shots for hair growth: 5 powerful ingredients to blend for maximum benefitsPaneer is packed with protein, but do you know how many calories are hidden in your 10 favourite paneer dishes?Discover your spiritual Goddess based on your birth dateMichelle Obama’s parents never promised her the world would be fair, they promised something better: “Come home we…”123Hot PicksNBA Trade RumorsHow to Watch FIFA World CupMichael JordanKylian MbappeBengaluru ProfessorCarol RuckdeschelRussia Saction BillNBA tradeMinecraft Bedrock 26.40.31 BetaTop TrendingIND U19 vs SL U19Prashant KishorFIFA World Cup 2026Nitin GadkariBengaluru Student SuicideTwisha Sharma Murder CaseBengaluru CapgeminiTaslima NasrinGujarat RapeIran war

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Tharoor urged Sonam Wangchuk to end his strike NEW DELHI: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday penned an open letter expressing solidarity with the students protesting at Jantar Mantar over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, while urging climate activist Sonam Wangchuk to end his indefinite hunger strike.He appealed to Wangchuk to end his fast, saying…

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