Vamsikrishna

Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council–Kargil chairman Dr Muhammad Jaffar Akhoon (File pic taken from X) SRINAGAR: Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council–Kargil chairman Dr Muhammad Jaffar Akhoon alleged Monday that LG Kavinder Gupta is sidelining the district in development planning and demanded a white paper on all works undertaken in Ladakh since its 2019 transition to Union territory status after Article 370’s abrogation. It marks a rare public charge by an elected body in Ladakh against the LG.Akhoon said Kargil’s health infrastructure has faced “systemic neglect” for decades. “We were sanctioned a 100-bed hospital in 1979. Since then, we have been running it as a 200-bed hospital with staff strength of a 100-bed facility,” he said, adding the district has sought an AIIMS for years without progress. Winter deployment of civilians and the armed forces pushes the hospital to capacity, he said, adding Kargil needs a full-fledged 300-bed facility capable of handling a high load of emergencies, including cardiac cases.He contrasted this with Leh, which has been sanctioned a medical college set to begin MBBS admissions next year and already has a 300-bed hospital alongside a major Army-run medical facility. He said Kargil lacks an airport, forcing civilians and Army personnel to travel through Srinagar or Leh for flights. While Leh remains connected by several daily services, Kargil is cut off through winter.Akhoon said he recently met Gupta, who allegedly agreed Kargil has faced discrimination “but it doesn’t reflect anywhere”. He added: “The LG is LG of the entire UT of Ladakh. He should treat every region equally.” Gupta was not available for comments.LAHDC-Kargil is currently the only elected body functioning in Ladakh. LAHDC-Leh completed its five-year term on Oct 30, but govt has yet to announce new polls. Panchayat elections have also been pending for several years.The Leh council was created under the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Act, 1995, during PM PV Narasimha Rao’s tenure, with its first elections held the same year. A parallel council for Kargil was formed in 2003 during CM Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s tenure. Elections for both are held every five years.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecond Day of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th Martyrdom Tribute Marked with Devotion in Punjab“Indian market offers smooth trade opportunities,” says ASSOCHAM Secretary‘Why? Why? Why?’ Mamata Slams EC, Flags ‘Unusual & Alarming’ Moves Ahead of Bengal Polls’Doesn’t Deserve LoP Post’: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For Missing CJI Surya Kant’s Oath CeremonyAs Pakistan Halts Afghan Transit, Kabul Boosts India Partnership And Fast-Tracks The Chabahar RouteIndia’s Soft Power Rises As Jaishankar Expands Global Gita Mahotsav, Kurukshetra Festival OutreachPunjab: Anandpur Sahib Hosts 3-Day Tribute on Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th Martyrdom Year’They Said Arunachal Is China’: Indian Woman Alleges Harassment After Passport Rejection In ShanghaiRajnath Says India Followed Krishna’s Message In Operation Sindoor After Pakistan Misread Decency‘Enemies of the Nation Are Our Enemies’Owaisi Condemns Delhi Blast123PhotostoriesHow to make Paneer stuffed Beetroot Paratha for breakfastHow 1 cup of this drink before bed can help burn belly fat in 30 days and how one can make it at homeDharmendra’s demise: From Krushna Abhishek, Karan Kundrra to Ankita Lokhande; TV celebs pay an emotional tribute to the legendary actorStruggling with fatty liver? 5 Ayurveda-approved food habits to improve liver healthSpeculation to confirmation: Sonam Kapoor’s second pregnancy becomes a masterclass in maternity fashionDisha Patani to Ananya Panday: The most talked-about fashion moments of the dayPlanning 2026 travels? 10 trending destinations in pictures to inspire youThanksgiving side dishes: 5 easy recipes to try this yearA legend lives on: Nostalgic images of Dharmendra, the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood10 Indian breakfasts that are high in protein and under 300 calories123Hot PicksDelhi AQI TodayNew Labour CodeChennai rainGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingNew Labour LawsIslam MakhachevCola Social Security PaymentsBrittany MahomesCanada Citizenship ActDelhi ProtestSmriti Mandhana WeddingJack HughesRama Raju MantenaFortnite Chapter 7 Leaked

Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council–Kargil chairman Dr Muhammad Jaffar Akhoon (File pic taken from X) SRINAGAR: Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council–Kargil chairman Dr Muhammad Jaffar Akhoon alleged Monday that LG Kavinder Gupta is sidelining the district in development planning and demanded a white paper on all works undertaken in Ladakh since its 2019 transition to Union territory status after Article 370’s abrogation. It marks a rare public charge by an elected body in Ladakh against the LG.Akhoon said Kargil’s health infrastructure has faced “systemic neglect” for decades. “We were sanctioned a 100-bed hospital in 1979. Since then, we have been running it as a 200-bed hospital with staff strength of a 100-bed facility,” he said, adding the district has sought an AIIMS for years without progress. Winter deployment of civilians and the armed forces pushes the hospital to capacity, he said, adding Kargil needs a full-fledged 300-bed facility capable of handling a high load of emergencies, including cardiac cases.He contrasted this with Leh, which has been sanctioned a medical college set to begin MBBS admissions next year and already has a 300-bed hospital alongside a major Army-run medical facility. He said Kargil lacks an airport, forcing civilians and Army personnel to travel through Srinagar or Leh for flights. While Leh remains connected by several daily services, Kargil is cut off through winter.Akhoon said he recently met Gupta, who allegedly agreed Kargil has faced discrimination “but it doesn’t reflect anywhere”. He added: “The LG is LG of the entire UT of Ladakh. He should treat every region equally.” Gupta was not available for comments.LAHDC-Kargil is currently the only elected body functioning in Ladakh. LAHDC-Leh completed its five-year term on Oct 30, but govt has yet to announce new polls. Panchayat elections have also been pending for several years.The Leh council was created under the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Act, 1995, during PM PV Narasimha Rao’s tenure, with its first elections held the same year. A parallel council for Kargil was formed in 2003 during CM Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s tenure. Elections for both are held every five years.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecond Day of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th Martyrdom Tribute Marked with Devotion in Punjab“Indian market offers smooth trade opportunities,” says ASSOCHAM Secretary‘Why? Why? Why?’ Mamata Slams EC, Flags ‘Unusual & Alarming’ Moves Ahead of Bengal Polls’Doesn’t Deserve LoP Post’: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For Missing CJI Surya Kant’s Oath CeremonyAs Pakistan Halts Afghan Transit, Kabul Boosts India Partnership And Fast-Tracks The Chabahar RouteIndia’s Soft Power Rises As Jaishankar Expands Global Gita Mahotsav, Kurukshetra Festival OutreachPunjab: Anandpur Sahib Hosts 3-Day Tribute on Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th Martyrdom Year’They Said Arunachal Is China’: Indian Woman Alleges Harassment After Passport Rejection In ShanghaiRajnath Says India Followed Krishna’s Message In Operation Sindoor After Pakistan Misread Decency‘Enemies of the Nation Are Our Enemies’Owaisi Condemns Delhi Blast123PhotostoriesHow to make Paneer stuffed Beetroot Paratha for breakfastHow 1 cup of this drink before bed can help burn belly fat in 30 days and how one can make it at homeDharmendra’s demise: From Krushna Abhishek, Karan Kundrra to Ankita Lokhande; TV celebs pay an emotional tribute to the legendary actorStruggling with fatty liver? 5 Ayurveda-approved food habits to improve liver healthSpeculation to confirmation: Sonam Kapoor’s second pregnancy becomes a masterclass in maternity fashionDisha Patani to Ananya Panday: The most talked-about fashion moments of the dayPlanning 2026 travels? 10 trending destinations in pictures to inspire youThanksgiving side dishes: 5 easy recipes to try this yearA legend lives on: Nostalgic images of Dharmendra, the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood10 Indian breakfasts that are high in protein and under 300 calories123Hot PicksDelhi AQI TodayNew Labour CodeChennai rainGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingNew Labour LawsIslam MakhachevCola Social Security PaymentsBrittany MahomesCanada Citizenship ActDelhi ProtestSmriti Mandhana WeddingJack HughesRama Raju MantenaFortnite Chapter 7 Leaked

Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council–Kargil chairman Dr Muhammad Jaffar Akhoon (File pic taken from X) SRINAGAR: Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council–Kargil chairman Dr Muhammad Jaffar Akhoon alleged Monday that LG Kavinder Gupta is sidelining the district in development planning and demanded a white paper on all works undertaken in Ladakh since its 2019 transition to…

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Updated: Nov 24, 2025, 23:35 IST

Updated: Nov 24, 2025, 23:35 IST

GM Andrey Esipenko in deep thoughts (Photo credit: Michal Walusza/FIDE) Chinese No. 1 Grandmaster Wei Yi maintained his solid performance with black pieces, securing a draw against GM Javokhir Sindarov in the opening game of the FIDE World Cup 2025 final.In the third-place match, GM Andrey Esipenko claimed victory over GM Nodirbek Yakubboev.Wei Yi chose…

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Government to introduce revenue support, buyback clause in new highway contract to push private investment

Government to introduce revenue support, buyback clause in new highway contract to push private investment

NEW DELHI: Govt is set to introduce major changes in the Model Concession Agreement (MCA) to de-risk private investments and safeguard lenders’ exposure in highway sector.The revised provisions, to be notified within a fortnight, include revenue support and extension of tolling periods in cases where actual traffic falls below projections, buyback of projects where traffic…

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IIT Delhi launches six-month online course in brand management: Here’s how students can upskill in marketing strategies

IIT Delhi launches six-month online course in brand management: Here’s how students can upskill in marketing strategies

IIT Delhi’s Continuing Education Programme has launched a six-month online Executive Certificate in Brand Management. Aimed at students and professionals, the course offers live sessions with faculty and industry experts. It covers brand strategy, digital marketing, and more, culminating in a capstone project. Registration closes November 29, 2025, with the program starting January 25, 2026….

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Shah Rukh Khan pens emotional tribute to Dharmendra: ‘You were nothing short of a father figure to me’

Shah Rukh Khan pens emotional tribute to Dharmendra: ‘You were nothing short of a father figure to me’

Indian film legend, actor Dharmendra passed away on Monday, November 24 at his residence. The actor’s final rite rituals were conducted early the same afternoon, with his family and a few close friends and film industry stars attending the ceremony. Shah Rukh Khan, who shared a close bond with the veteran star, was also spotted…

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Chinese Zodiac Horoscope Today, November 25, 2025: A bold opportunity appears, these zodiac signs will take a life-changing leap

Chinese Zodiac Horoscope Today, November 25, 2025: A bold opportunity appears, these zodiac signs will take a life-changing leap

Welcome to your daily Chinese horoscope, where we explore the mystical insights of the Chinese zodiac. Each day brings new opportunities and challenges, shaped by the powerful dynamics of the Chinese zodiac signs and the ongoing Chinese zodiac year. Discover what the stars have in store for you based on your specific zodiac sign in…

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BJP, PDP turn up heat on J&K government on power surcharge; CM says no such proposal

BJP, PDP turn up heat on J&K government on power surcharge; CM says no such proposal

SRINAGAR: BJP and PDP Monday deplored the proposed plan to impose a 20 per cent surcharge on peak-hour power consumption in Jammu and Kashmir and termed it an “electoral fraud” by National Conference, prompting CM Omar Abdullah to deny having any such proposal.Kashmir Power Development Corporation Ltd (KPDCL) proposed a 20 per cent peak-hour power…

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Situation improved: US terminates Temporary Protected Status for Myanmar, asks Burmese nationals to go home

Situation improved: US terminates Temporary Protected Status for Myanmar, asks Burmese nationals to go home

The Donald Trump administration ends temporary protected status for Myanmar, asks Burmese nationals to go home as situation in Myanmar is better now. The Donald Trump administration Monday announced ending the Temporary Protected Status for Myanmar which will be effective on January 26, 2026. The situation in Myanmar has improved enough that Burmese nationals can…

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Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited the ancient Shiva temple in Lakhamandal today, where local residents and party workers gave him a grand welcome. The Chief Minister performed traditional rituals at the temple and prayed for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of the people of the state.  DEHRADUN: Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday visited the ancient Shiva temple in Lakhamandal, where locals and party workers gave him a grand welcome. The Chief Minister performed traditional rituals at the temple and prayed for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of the state’s people.State minister and program coordinator Geeta Ram Gaud presented a 16-point memorandum to Dhami regarding various local issues of the region. The chief minister assured that all the demands would be examined seriously and appropriate action would be taken.Addressing a massive public gathering, Dhami said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the state government is taking “several historic and decisive steps”.He emphasised that the “strictest anti-cheating law” in the country has been implemented in Uttarakhand. The CM added that in the past 4.5 years, “more than 26,000 youth have been selected for government jobs with complete transparency and integrity. “These jobs have been awarded purely on the basis of merit and talent,” he said.He further stated that the government has imposed strict restrictions on activities such as “land jihad, “spitting jihad”, “love jihad”, and forced religious conversions. “The state government is committed to safeguarding the demography and cultural values of Uttarakhand”.The chief minister noted that just as the grand temple of Lord Shri Ram in Ayodhya was established after 500 years, and the Mahakal Corridor in Ujjain was completed, similarly, “extensive efforts are underway in Uttarakhand for cultural rejuvenation”.He informed that a special master plan worth Rs 120 crore is being prepared for the region’s famous Hanol Temple, aimed at the preservation and development of this spiritual and historical site.Chief Minister Dhami said that the affection and warm welcome received from the people of Lakhamandal were “deeply emotional for him.”He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the public and reiterated that the state government is continuously committed to the “all-round development” of Uttarakhand. End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecond Day of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th Martyrdom Tribute Marked with Devotion in Punjab“Indian market offers smooth trade opportunities,” says ASSOCHAM Secretary‘Why? Why? Why?’ Mamata Slams EC, Flags ‘Unusual & Alarming’ Moves Ahead of Bengal Polls’Doesn’t Deserve LoP Post’: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For Missing CJI Surya Kant’s Oath CeremonyAs Pakistan Halts Afghan Transit, Kabul Boosts India Partnership And Fast-Tracks The Chabahar RouteIndia’s Soft Power Rises As Jaishankar Expands Global Gita Mahotsav, Kurukshetra Festival OutreachPunjab: Anandpur Sahib Hosts 3-Day Tribute on Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th Martyrdom Year’They Said Arunachal Is China’: Indian Woman Alleges Harassment After Passport Rejection In ShanghaiRajnath Says India Followed Krishna’s Message In Operation Sindoor After Pakistan Misread Decency‘Enemies of the Nation Are Our Enemies’Owaisi Condemns Delhi Blast123PhotostoriesHow 1 cup of this drink before bed can help burn belly fat in 30 days and how one can make it at homeDharmendra’s demise: From Krushna Abhishek, Karan Kundrra to Ankita Lokhande; TV celebs pay an emotional tribute to the legendary actorStruggling with fatty liver? 5 Ayurveda-approved food habits to improve liver healthSpeculation to confirmation: Sonam Kapoor’s second pregnancy becomes a masterclass in maternity fashionDisha Patani to Ananya Panday: The most talked-about fashion moments of the dayPlanning 2026 travels? 10 trending destinations in pictures to inspire youThanksgiving side dishes: 5 easy recipes to try this yearA legend lives on: Nostalgic images of Dharmendra, the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood10 Indian breakfasts that are high in protein and under 300 calories5 Indian baby name pairs that are perfect for siblings123Hot PicksDelhi AQI TodayNew Labour CodeChennai rainGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingNew Labour LawsIslam MakhachevCola Social Security PaymentsBrittany MahomesCanada Citizenship ActDelhi ProtestSmriti Mandhana WeddingJack HughesRama Raju MantenaFortnite Chapter 7 Leaked

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami visited the ancient Shiva temple in Lakhamandal today, where local residents and party workers gave him a grand welcome. The Chief Minister performed traditional rituals at the temple and prayed for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of the people of the state. DEHRADUN: Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday visited the ancient Shiva temple in Lakhamandal, where locals and party workers gave him a grand welcome. The Chief Minister performed traditional rituals at the temple and prayed for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of the state’s people.State minister and program coordinator Geeta Ram Gaud presented a 16-point memorandum to Dhami regarding various local issues of the region. The chief minister assured that all the demands would be examined seriously and appropriate action would be taken.Addressing a massive public gathering, Dhami said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the state government is taking “several historic and decisive steps”.He emphasised that the “strictest anti-cheating law” in the country has been implemented in Uttarakhand. The CM added that in the past 4.5 years, “more than 26,000 youth have been selected for government jobs with complete transparency and integrity. “These jobs have been awarded purely on the basis of merit and talent,” he said.He further stated that the government has imposed strict restrictions on activities such as “land jihad, “spitting jihad”, “love jihad”, and forced religious conversions. “The state government is committed to safeguarding the demography and cultural values of Uttarakhand”.The chief minister noted that just as the grand temple of Lord Shri Ram in Ayodhya was established after 500 years, and the Mahakal Corridor in Ujjain was completed, similarly, “extensive efforts are underway in Uttarakhand for cultural rejuvenation”.He informed that a special master plan worth Rs 120 crore is being prepared for the region’s famous Hanol Temple, aimed at the preservation and development of this spiritual and historical site.Chief Minister Dhami said that the affection and warm welcome received from the people of Lakhamandal were “deeply emotional for him.”He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the public and reiterated that the state government is continuously committed to the “all-round development” of Uttarakhand. End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecond Day of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th Martyrdom Tribute Marked with Devotion in Punjab“Indian market offers smooth trade opportunities,” says ASSOCHAM Secretary‘Why? Why? Why?’ Mamata Slams EC, Flags ‘Unusual & Alarming’ Moves Ahead of Bengal Polls’Doesn’t Deserve LoP Post’: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For Missing CJI Surya Kant’s Oath CeremonyAs Pakistan Halts Afghan Transit, Kabul Boosts India Partnership And Fast-Tracks The Chabahar RouteIndia’s Soft Power Rises As Jaishankar Expands Global Gita Mahotsav, Kurukshetra Festival OutreachPunjab: Anandpur Sahib Hosts 3-Day Tribute on Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th Martyrdom Year’They Said Arunachal Is China’: Indian Woman Alleges Harassment After Passport Rejection In ShanghaiRajnath Says India Followed Krishna’s Message In Operation Sindoor After Pakistan Misread Decency‘Enemies of the Nation Are Our Enemies’Owaisi Condemns Delhi Blast123PhotostoriesHow 1 cup of this drink before bed can help burn belly fat in 30 days and how one can make it at homeDharmendra’s demise: From Krushna Abhishek, Karan Kundrra to Ankita Lokhande; TV celebs pay an emotional tribute to the legendary actorStruggling with fatty liver? 5 Ayurveda-approved food habits to improve liver healthSpeculation to confirmation: Sonam Kapoor’s second pregnancy becomes a masterclass in maternity fashionDisha Patani to Ananya Panday: The most talked-about fashion moments of the dayPlanning 2026 travels? 10 trending destinations in pictures to inspire youThanksgiving side dishes: 5 easy recipes to try this yearA legend lives on: Nostalgic images of Dharmendra, the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood10 Indian breakfasts that are high in protein and under 300 calories5 Indian baby name pairs that are perfect for siblings123Hot PicksDelhi AQI TodayNew Labour CodeChennai rainGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingNew Labour LawsIslam MakhachevCola Social Security PaymentsBrittany MahomesCanada Citizenship ActDelhi ProtestSmriti Mandhana WeddingJack HughesRama Raju MantenaFortnite Chapter 7 Leaked

DEHRADUN: Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday visited the ancient Shiva temple in Lakhamandal, where locals and party workers gave him a grand welcome. The Chief Minister performed traditional rituals at the temple and prayed for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of the state’s people.State minister and program coordinator Geeta Ram Gaud presented a…

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Nov 24, 2025, 23:10 IST

Nov 24, 2025, 23:10 IST

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has implemented a key constitutional clause following a Supreme Court directive. This clause prevents officials from simultaneously holding positions in both national and state football organisations. The Supreme Court had instructed AIFF to adopt Article 25.3 (c) and (d) within three weeks of its October 15 order. These articles…

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Cloud expansion: Amazon to invest  bn in US government AI infrastructure; AWS expands secure cloud capacity

Cloud expansion: Amazon to invest $50 bn in US government AI infrastructure; AWS expands secure cloud capacity

Amazon on Monday announced a $50-billion investment to expand artificial intelligence and supercomputing capacity for the US government, positioning itself as a central player in developing customised AI technology for federal missions.In a statement, the company said the initiative will give US agencies access to advanced machine-learning services, AI chips and software-development tools supporting areas…

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Tripura government launches recruitment drive for 1,733 teachers to tackle chronic staff shortages

Tripura government launches recruitment drive for 1,733 teachers to tackle chronic staff shortages

The Tripura Government has started the recruitment process for 1,733 teachers, Chief Minister Manik Saha said on Monday, according to a recent PTI report. This is a step to ease mounting pressure as the state grapples with long-standing vacancies across its schools. The problem continues to prevail even after repeated hiring cycles in recent years.Speaking…

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Daily Career Horoscope, November 25, 2025: Promotions likely, these zodiac signs will be rewarded for effort

Daily Career Horoscope, November 25, 2025: Promotions likely, these zodiac signs will be rewarded for effort

Get the stars to power your career development and financial growth daily. Pick up personalised clues to pump up your productivity, play it smarter with finance, and take opportunities as they come. Step up by following spot-on horoscope advice tailored to your working and wealth-building journey. Aries Career Horoscope Today, 25 November 2025 You may…

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India grapples with AI-generated deepfakes, a digital menace distorting reality and undermining trust. These hyper-realistic creations, increasingly used in politics and scams, pose a significant threat to public perception and democratic integrity. Experts warn of the growing sophistication of this technology, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger legal frameworks and enhanced digital literacy to combat the deepening threat. . In a world where seeing is no longer believing, India is facing a new digital menace: AI-generated deepfakes.These hyper-realistic videos and audio clips don’t just distort reality. They manipulate public perception, spread misinformation and undermine trust in democracy itself.With 85.5 per cent of Indian households owning at least one smartphone, mobile phones have become India’s bank, classroom and television, making citizens more vulnerable to digital deception.Deepfake Shock: Nirmala Sitharaman Reveals Fake Videos Of Herself Online, Warns Of AI’s Dark SideDuring the 2024 elections, for instance, satirical deepfakes became a campaign tool of sorts. Apart from resurrecting dead leaders, it featured clips such as one that featured PM Narendra Modi dancing the garba with women and Kamal Nath dissing a popular welfare scheme.Though investigations and arrests followed, such videos blur the line between fact and fiction, risking the distortion of voter opinion and the integrity of the democratic process.Cybersecurity experts warn AI is also becoming a key tool in cybercrime: 80 per cent phishing campaigns in 2024 involved AI, with deepfakes exploited for scams. “When you can fake images, audio, and video, how do you know if a real video is real? Suddenly, everything is in question,” said Hany Farid, professor at the University of California, Berkeley, in a TOI interview last year about the worrying rise in AI misuse.Armour up with TOI to fight deepening threat of deepfakesThe deepfake threat extends beyond politics. Recently, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the misuse of AI to clone voices and produce fake videos impersonating her, warning of potential financial scams and the erosion of public trust. “I have seen several deepfake videos of myself being circulated online, manipulated to mislead citizens and distort facts,” Sitharaman said in Mumbai. “Criminals are using AI to mimic voices, clone identities, and create lifelike videos,” she added.Given that over 97% of India’s urban youth aged 15 to 29 owns a smartphone, the impact of such misinformation on a generation is worrying, say observers. “Deepfakes began in 2016. Back then, it was a joke. But the technology has only gotten better. Earlier, there were photoshopped face swaps. Now there are lipsync fakes,” said Prof. Farid, warning that the tech has become more refined, raising the risk of harassment of women through the use of non-consensual sexual imagery.In Nov 2023, actress Rashmika Mandanna became a victim of a viral deepfake video that superimposed her face on to compromising content, sparking widespread outrage. “The very term ‘deepfake’ comes from a Reddit user who in the early days of this technology used it to create porn,” said Farid, calling the new term ‘Generative AI’ clever “rebranding” by the male-dominated tech industry.As AI evolves, India must strengthen legal frameworks, enhance digital literacy, and bring together minds across sectors to ensure safety, say experts. “We need to label everything as real or not real,” said Farid, “We need real disclosures.” To combat the deepening threat of deep fakes, TOI has already started armouring up. Watch out for our ‘Don’t Get Scammed’ stories to stay informed and aware. After all, as Farid puts it, “if you don’t know what’s real, how will you know what’s false”?End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia’s Soft Power Rises As Jaishankar Expands Global Gita Mahotsav, Kurukshetra Festival OutreachPunjab: Anandpur Sahib Hosts 3-Day Tribute on Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th Martyrdom Year’They Said Arunachal Is China’: Indian Woman Alleges Harassment After Passport Rejection In ShanghaiRajnath Says India Followed Krishna’s Message In Operation Sindoor After Pakistan Misread Decency‘Enemies of the Nation Are Our Enemies’Owaisi Condemns Delhi Blast’Double Trade By 2030′: Piyush Goyal’s Big Remarks As India, Canada Agree To Resume FTA TalksTejas Crash: HAL Issues Clarification As Court Of Inquiry Probes Wing Commander Namansh Syal’s DeathDelhi Air Pollution Protest At India Gate Turns Violent Amid ‘Madvi Hidma Amar Rahe’ SlogansRajnath Singh’s Sindh Comment Sparks Pakistan Fury As Islamabad Labels India ‘Expansionist’ AgainINS Mahe Commissioned As Indian Navy’s New Aatmanirbhar Submarine Killer For Stronger Coastal Shield123PhotostoriesDharmendra: The late legend’s heartwarming family picturesEvil Eye You Attract According To Your Date of BirthLong-term love tips: 8 practical ways to stay close and happy in a relationshipLate actor Dharmendra’s most touching parenting lessons: It’s all about love, simplicity and staying grounded10 winter getaways in India that double as European lookalikesPhotos and interesting facts from inside Bill Gates 5 Million home ‘Xanadu 2.0’From Dharmendra to Dev Anand: Veteran style icons who shaped Bollywood’s fashion historyFrom Nushrratt Bharuccha to Tiger Shroff: Bollywood stars stuck in repetitive on-screen images10 most effective natural hacks to permanently get rid of mice and rats at homeDelhi’s bold vision: Luxury metro coaches, tunnels and pod taxis123Hot PicksDelhi AQI TodayNew Labour CodeChennai rainGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingNew Labour LawsIslam MakhachevCola Social Security PaymentsBrittany MahomesCanada Citizenship ActDelhi ProtestSmriti Mandhana WeddingJack HughesRama Raju MantenaFortnite Chapter 7 Leaked

India grapples with AI-generated deepfakes, a digital menace distorting reality and undermining trust. These hyper-realistic creations, increasingly used in politics and scams, pose a significant threat to public perception and democratic integrity. Experts warn of the growing sophistication of this technology, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger legal frameworks and enhanced digital literacy to combat the deepening threat. . In a world where seeing is no longer believing, India is facing a new digital menace: AI-generated deepfakes.These hyper-realistic videos and audio clips don’t just distort reality. They manipulate public perception, spread misinformation and undermine trust in democracy itself.With 85.5 per cent of Indian households owning at least one smartphone, mobile phones have become India’s bank, classroom and television, making citizens more vulnerable to digital deception.Deepfake Shock: Nirmala Sitharaman Reveals Fake Videos Of Herself Online, Warns Of AI’s Dark SideDuring the 2024 elections, for instance, satirical deepfakes became a campaign tool of sorts. Apart from resurrecting dead leaders, it featured clips such as one that featured PM Narendra Modi dancing the garba with women and Kamal Nath dissing a popular welfare scheme.Though investigations and arrests followed, such videos blur the line between fact and fiction, risking the distortion of voter opinion and the integrity of the democratic process.Cybersecurity experts warn AI is also becoming a key tool in cybercrime: 80 per cent phishing campaigns in 2024 involved AI, with deepfakes exploited for scams. “When you can fake images, audio, and video, how do you know if a real video is real? Suddenly, everything is in question,” said Hany Farid, professor at the University of California, Berkeley, in a TOI interview last year about the worrying rise in AI misuse.Armour up with TOI to fight deepening threat of deepfakesThe deepfake threat extends beyond politics. Recently, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the misuse of AI to clone voices and produce fake videos impersonating her, warning of potential financial scams and the erosion of public trust. “I have seen several deepfake videos of myself being circulated online, manipulated to mislead citizens and distort facts,” Sitharaman said in Mumbai. “Criminals are using AI to mimic voices, clone identities, and create lifelike videos,” she added.Given that over 97% of India’s urban youth aged 15 to 29 owns a smartphone, the impact of such misinformation on a generation is worrying, say observers. “Deepfakes began in 2016. Back then, it was a joke. But the technology has only gotten better. Earlier, there were photoshopped face swaps. Now there are lipsync fakes,” said Prof. Farid, warning that the tech has become more refined, raising the risk of harassment of women through the use of non-consensual sexual imagery.In Nov 2023, actress Rashmika Mandanna became a victim of a viral deepfake video that superimposed her face on to compromising content, sparking widespread outrage. “The very term ‘deepfake’ comes from a Reddit user who in the early days of this technology used it to create porn,” said Farid, calling the new term ‘Generative AI’ clever “rebranding” by the male-dominated tech industry.As AI evolves, India must strengthen legal frameworks, enhance digital literacy, and bring together minds across sectors to ensure safety, say experts. “We need to label everything as real or not real,” said Farid, “We need real disclosures.” To combat the deepening threat of deep fakes, TOI has already started armouring up. Watch out for our ‘Don’t Get Scammed’ stories to stay informed and aware. After all, as Farid puts it, “if you don’t know what’s real, how will you know what’s false”?End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia’s Soft Power Rises As Jaishankar Expands Global Gita Mahotsav, Kurukshetra Festival OutreachPunjab: Anandpur Sahib Hosts 3-Day Tribute on Guru Tegh Bahadur’s 350th Martyrdom Year’They Said Arunachal Is China’: Indian Woman Alleges Harassment After Passport Rejection In ShanghaiRajnath Says India Followed Krishna’s Message In Operation Sindoor After Pakistan Misread Decency‘Enemies of the Nation Are Our Enemies’Owaisi Condemns Delhi Blast’Double Trade By 2030′: Piyush Goyal’s Big Remarks As India, Canada Agree To Resume FTA TalksTejas Crash: HAL Issues Clarification As Court Of Inquiry Probes Wing Commander Namansh Syal’s DeathDelhi Air Pollution Protest At India Gate Turns Violent Amid ‘Madvi Hidma Amar Rahe’ SlogansRajnath Singh’s Sindh Comment Sparks Pakistan Fury As Islamabad Labels India ‘Expansionist’ AgainINS Mahe Commissioned As Indian Navy’s New Aatmanirbhar Submarine Killer For Stronger Coastal Shield123PhotostoriesDharmendra: The late legend’s heartwarming family picturesEvil Eye You Attract According To Your Date of BirthLong-term love tips: 8 practical ways to stay close and happy in a relationshipLate actor Dharmendra’s most touching parenting lessons: It’s all about love, simplicity and staying grounded10 winter getaways in India that double as European lookalikesPhotos and interesting facts from inside Bill Gates $125 Million home ‘Xanadu 2.0’From Dharmendra to Dev Anand: Veteran style icons who shaped Bollywood’s fashion historyFrom Nushrratt Bharuccha to Tiger Shroff: Bollywood stars stuck in repetitive on-screen images10 most effective natural hacks to permanently get rid of mice and rats at homeDelhi’s bold vision: Luxury metro coaches, tunnels and pod taxis123Hot PicksDelhi AQI TodayNew Labour CodeChennai rainGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingNew Labour LawsIslam MakhachevCola Social Security PaymentsBrittany MahomesCanada Citizenship ActDelhi ProtestSmriti Mandhana WeddingJack HughesRama Raju MantenaFortnite Chapter 7 Leaked

In a world where seeing is no longer believing, India is facing a new digital menace: AI-generated deepfakes.These hyper-realistic videos and audio clips don’t just distort reality. They manipulate public perception, spread misinformation and undermine trust in democracy itself.With 85.5 per cent of Indian households owning at least one smartphone, mobile phones have become India’s…

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Nov 24, 2025, 22:32 IST

Nov 24, 2025, 22:32 IST

Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey (Photo by Hockey India) The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey match between India and Belgium was postponed to Tuesday due to adverse weather conditions.The match commenced as scheduled but was halted after three minutes when heavy rain forced the umpires to stop play.Initially rescheduled for 8:45 PM IST, persistent poor…

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