VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html ‘Hold NEET-UG in multiple phases, give statutory status to NTA’: Parliamentary panel’s key suggestions amid paper leaks row Pope Leo openly defied: Traditionalists consecrate 4 bishops without his consent Representational image NEW DELHI: A 24-year-old graphic designer from Maharashtra’s Beed district has been held “captive” in Myanmar for nearly a month and forced to work 16-18 hours a day in cyber fraud operations, police said on Wednesday.The Beed cyber police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against unidentified agents and individuals based on a complaint filed by the victim’s wife and launched an investigation.According to police, the man spotted an advertisement on social media for a graphic designing and data entry job in Bangkok, Thailand. Enticed by the promise of a monthly salary equivalent to Rs 70,000, he contacted the WhatsApp number provided in the ad. Believing the offer to be genuine, he boarded a flight from Pune to Bangkok on June 4.”The ordeal came to light when the man managed to make a WhatsApp call to his wife, narrating the horrific conditions of his captivity in Myanmar. He revealed that 20 to 25 other individuals from Maharashtra, along with hundreds of other Indian nationals, are currently trapped in the facility,” PTI quoted a police officer as saying.The man also told his wife that two to three captives who confronted their captors were killed.”The graphic designer pleaded for immediate rescue, stating that his life was in imminent danger,” the official said.After the call, his wife approached the local cyber police station and lodged a complaint. The Beed cyber police have registered an FIR under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Information Technology (IT) Act.Authorities believe it is a vast international human trafficking syndicate linked to cyber fraud operations that has trapped hundreds of unsuspecting Indian nationals.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 MediaVideosAs Takaichi Arrives In Delhi, Why India Refuses To Take Sides In The Japan-China StandoffCalcutta Stock Exchange To Be Revived: Bengal’s Push To Reposition Kolkata As Key Financial CentreAkhilesh Yadav’s Trusted Aide Kamal Akhtar Loses Key SP Post As UP’s Moradabad Turf War SpiralsOne Year After Operation Sindoor, 117 Indian And Pakistani Leaders Urge Peace And DialogueRam Temple Donation Theft: Police Reveal Alleged Inside Operation Behind Crores HeistJuly 1 Rule Changes Explained: Costlier Passports, Free Aadhaar Updates, EPFO And ITR DeadlinesWhy Thousands Are Visiting Lohagad Fort’s Alleged Murder Spot | ‘Siya Point’ |Dark Tourism ExplainedUS Supreme Court Rejects Trump’s Birthright Order, Big Relief For Indians In USBilawal Bhutto Accuses India Of ‘Weaponising’ Water Amid Indus Waters Treaty RowDelhi May Soon Get Its Own London Eye As DDA Revives Giant Observation Wheel Project123Photostories10 beautiful baby girl names inspired by the beauty of nature and their heartwarming meaningsFoaming face wash vs gel cleanser: Which one is better for your skin type?6 desi Indian foods that are better eaten at night than in the morningPsychology says parents who stay calm during tantrums help children learn emotional regulationPsychology says people-pleasing is a trauma response, and you don’t even know itFrom Naan to Khulcha: 12 popular Indian breads, their calories and what they taste best with8 Most beautiful train journeys in South India you should take at least onceAlia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh rewrite promotional style rules with sharp denim cuts and a striking diamond ring6 lakes in India with clear, mirror-like water that deserves a visitKidney disease symptoms are often vague, says Mayo Clinic: These 8 signs can appear when your kidneys lose function123Hot PicksLPG gas priceCBSE best marks ruleNEET PG RegistrationRam Temple donation theftMumbai RainsNew visa ruleMarcus SmartNayara petrol priceHow to Watch FIFA World Cup TodayTop TrendingNayara energy petrol priceLPG priceKetan Agarwal Murder CaseFIFA World Cup 2026Monaco BlastBengaluru TechieAnukalp MishraSergei IvanovIndigo Check-in Bag FaresAyodhya Ram Temple Donation Theft ‘Gram Chikitsalay’ Season 2 ending explained: Did Dr Prabhat and Dr. Gargi win the ‘BEST PHC’ for Bhatkandi? Will there be Season 3? ‘Everybody’s profiting’: Donald Trump reacts to $1.4 billion income disclosure, says stock market driving gains ‘Neither side thinks they’ve lost’: Iran determined to keep Hormuz control, even by force Forest & Environment Department, Sikkim Govt, and WWF-India NEW DELHI: In what represents only the second photographic record of Eurasian lynx — a medium-sized wild cat distinguished by its characteristic ear tufts and short tail — in the entire eastern Himalayan region, the species was photographed by a camera trap deployed at 5,250 metres on the Tso Lhamo plateau in Mangan district.This finding follows the first-ever photographic record of the Eurasian lynx in Arunachal Pradesh in 2025, documented during a joint survey by WWF-India and the environment department of the Arunachal Pradesh govt.“Following our 2025 record in Arunachal Pradesh, the Sikkim record confirms that the Eurasian lynx has a broader presence in the eastern Himalayas than was previously understood. What we are documenting at Tso Lhamo is not a single-species occurrence; it is a high-altitude ecosystem of exceptional conservation value,” said Rishi Kumar Sharma, head of the Himalayas Programme, WWF-India.The photograph of Eurasian lynx was captured in January as part of a long-term snow leopard and rangeland monitoring programme jointly led by the forest and environment department of the Sikkim govt and WWF-India.“It highlights the ecological significance of our high-altitude rangelands and reinforces our commitment to protecting these fragile ecosystems,” said Udai Gurung, chief conservator of forests (wildlife), Sikkim, about the photograph that was retrieved last month.WWF-India noted that though anecdotal reports of the Eurasian lynx circulated in the region for years, the discovery provides the first confirmed photographic evidence of its presence in Sikkim.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorVishwa MohanVishwa Mohan is Senior Editor at The Times of India. He writes on environment, climate change, agriculture, water resources and clean energy, tracking policy issues and climate diplomacy. He has been covering Parliament since 2003 to see how politics shaped up domestic policy and India’s position at global platform. Before switching over to explore sustainable development issues, Vishwa had covered internal security and investigative agencies for more than a decade.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAs Takaichi Arrives In Delhi, Why India Refuses To Take Sides In The Japan-China StandoffCalcutta Stock Exchange To Be Revived: Bengal’s Push To Reposition Kolkata As Key Financial CentreAkhilesh Yadav’s Trusted Aide Kamal Akhtar Loses Key SP Post As UP’s Moradabad Turf War SpiralsOne Year After Operation Sindoor, 117 Indian And Pakistani Leaders Urge Peace And DialogueRam Temple Donation Theft: Police Reveal Alleged Inside Operation Behind Crores HeistJuly 1 Rule Changes Explained: Costlier Passports, Free Aadhaar Updates, EPFO And ITR DeadlinesWhy Thousands Are Visiting Lohagad Fort’s Alleged Murder Spot | ‘Siya Point’ |Dark Tourism ExplainedUS Supreme Court Rejects Trump’s Birthright Order, Big Relief For Indians In USBilawal Bhutto Accuses India Of ‘Weaponising’ Water Amid Indus Waters Treaty RowDelhi May Soon Get Its Own London Eye As DDA Revives Giant Observation Wheel Project123Photostories10 beautiful baby girl names inspired by the beauty of nature and their heartwarming meaningsFoaming face wash vs gel cleanser: Which one is better for your skin type?6 desi Indian foods that are better eaten at night than in the morningPsychology says parents who stay calm during tantrums help children learn emotional regulationPsychology says people-pleasing is a trauma response, and you don’t even know itFrom Naan to Khulcha: 12 popular Indian breads, their calories and what they taste best with8 Most beautiful train journeys in South India you should take at least onceAlia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh rewrite promotional style rules with sharp denim cuts and a striking diamond ring6 lakes in India with clear, mirror-like water that deserves a visitKidney disease symptoms are often vague, says Mayo Clinic: These 8 signs can appear when your kidneys lose function123Hot PicksLPG gas priceCBSE best marks ruleNEET PG RegistrationRam Temple donation theftMumbai RainsNew visa ruleMarcus SmartNayara petrol priceHow to Watch FIFA World Cup TodayTop TrendingNayara energy petrol priceLPG priceKetan Agarwal Murder CaseFIFA World Cup 2026Monaco BlastBengaluru TechieAnukalp MishraSergei IvanovIndigo Check-in Bag FaresAyodhya Ram Temple Donation Theft Jul 01, 2026, 19:30 IST ‘I was not utilised properly’: Shardul Thakur’s explosive claim on Shubman Gill-led England tour Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce wedding schedule CONFIRMED: From rehearsal dinner to reception Russia turns to India for gasoline as fuel shortages deepen after Ukrainian strikes ‘Indian-American endorsing a Pakistani-American’: US Congressman Ro Khanna backs Democratic candidate Aisha Farooqi AI-generated image BENGALURU: Twelve Indian startups and research institutions have been selected for funding and mentoring under a joint India-UK programme to develop technologies aimed at tackling antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the environment, an increasingly recognised public health challenge.The winners were announced under the 2025-26 call of the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms’ (C-CAMP) programme on AMR in the environment, supported by the UK govt’s Global AMR Innovation Fund (Gamrif)The selected projects cover technologies to detect, prevent and treat antibiotic-resistant bacteria and antibiotic residues in soil, water, wastewater and biomedical waste. Each project is eligible for funding of up to £170,000 (about Rs 2 crore), besides incubation support, mentoring, technology access and networking opportunities to help translate laboratory research into commercial products.The latest cohort increases the number of innovations supported under the India AMR Innovation Hub (IAIH) to 21. The hub is the innovation arm of the GoI’s National Action Plan on AMR and is anchored by C-CAMP under the guidance of the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser.Among the selected innovations are rapid diagnostic platforms that can detect antibiotic-resistant genes in environmental samples, systems for monitoring wastewater, technologies to treat hospital sewage, solutions to disinfect biomedical waste, and tools to reduce antibiotic use in aquaculture.The winners include startups such as GenePath Diagnostics, Ampligene, Module Innovations, Meril Diagnostics, Teora Lifesciences, Aventiq Innovations, Biosustain Labs and Openwater. in, along with researchers from IIT Roorkee, IIT Madras, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory and BioNEST at Banaras Hindu University.Taslimarif Saiyed, director-CEO, C-CAMP, said the new technologies would help detect, prevent and treat environmental sources that contribute to the build-up of drug-resistant pathogens and antibiotic contamination.“These technologies will enable detection, prevention and treatment of soil, water, air and other sources to eliminate the risk of resistant pathogen build-up and leaching of antibiotics and other pharmaceuticals in the environment,” he said.Principal Scientific Adviser Prof AK Sood said the fight against antimicrobial resistance must extend beyond discovering new drugs and address environmental causes. “C-CAMP has identified environmental causes and lack of contextual solutions for the environment to be the crucial missing pieces in our AMR response,” he said, adding that the innovations would receive a global platform through the India-UK partnership.Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria and other microbes evolve to withstand medicines designed to kill them, making infections harder to treat. Environmental contamination from antibiotics and resistant microbes is increasingly recognised as a key driver of the problem.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorChethan KumarChethan Kumar is a Senior Assistant Editor with the Times of India. Aside from specialising in Space & Science, he has reported extensively on varied topics, with special focus on defence, policy and data stories. He has covered multiple elections, too. As a young democracy grows out of adolescence, Chethan feels, there are reels of tales emerging which need to be captured. To do this, he alternates between the mundane goings-on of the Common Man and the wonder-filled worlds of scientists and scamsters, politicians and soldiers. In a career spanning nearly 18 years, he has reported from multiple datelines — Houston, Florida, Kochi, Hyderabad, Chennai, Sriharikota (AP), NH-1 (J&K Highway), New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Raichur, Bhatkal, Mysuru, Chamarajanagar, to name a few — but is based out of Bengaluru, India’s science capital that also hosts the ISRO HQ.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAs Takaichi Arrives In Delhi, Why India Refuses To Take Sides In The Japan-China StandoffCalcutta Stock Exchange To Be Revived: Bengal’s Push To Reposition Kolkata As Key Financial CentreAkhilesh Yadav’s Trusted Aide Kamal Akhtar Loses Key SP Post As UP’s Moradabad Turf War SpiralsOne Year After Operation Sindoor, 117 Indian And Pakistani Leaders Urge Peace And DialogueRam Temple Donation Theft: Police Reveal Alleged Inside Operation Behind Crores HeistJuly 1 Rule Changes Explained: Costlier Passports, Free Aadhaar Updates, EPFO And ITR DeadlinesWhy Thousands Are Visiting Lohagad Fort’s Alleged Murder Spot | ‘Siya Point’ |Dark Tourism ExplainedUS Supreme Court Rejects Trump’s Birthright Order, Big Relief For Indians In USBilawal Bhutto Accuses India Of ‘Weaponising’ Water Amid Indus Waters Treaty RowDelhi May Soon Get Its Own London Eye As DDA Revives Giant Observation Wheel Project123Photostories10 beautiful baby girl names inspired by the beauty of nature and their heartwarming meaningsFoaming face wash vs gel cleanser: Which one is better for your skin type?6 desi Indian foods that are better eaten at night than in the morningPsychology says parents who stay calm during tantrums help children learn emotional regulationPsychology says people-pleasing is a trauma response, and you don’t even know itFrom Naan to Khulcha: 12 popular Indian breads, their calories and what they taste best with8 Most beautiful train journeys in South India you should take at least onceAlia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh rewrite promotional style rules with sharp denim cuts and a striking diamond ring6 lakes in India with clear, mirror-like water that deserves a visitKidney disease symptoms are often vague, says Mayo Clinic: These 8 signs can appear when your kidneys lose function123Hot PicksLPG gas priceCBSE best marks ruleNEET PG RegistrationRam Temple donation theftMumbai RainsNew visa ruleMarcus SmartNayara petrol priceHow to Watch FIFA World Cup TodayTop TrendingNayara energy petrol priceLPG priceKetan Agarwal Murder CaseFIFA World Cup 2026Monaco BlastBengaluru TechieAnukalp MishraSergei IvanovIndigo Check-in Bag FaresAyodhya Ram Temple Donation Theft China tightens curbs on foreign investments amid AI, chip tech rivalry with US NTA releases ICAR AIEEA PG, PhD 2026 admit cards; exam on July 4: Direct link to download hall tickets here Rob Kardashian makes a rare appearance during Khloe’s 42nd birthday; smiles alongside the sisters 10 beautiful baby girl names inspired by the beauty of nature and their heartwarming meanings People laughed when Canada built bridges for wildlife, then 250,000 animals used them and road deaths dropped by over 80% Iran invites Kharge, Khurshid, Khera to Khamenei’s burial ceremony | India News This Arab proverb explains why faith alone isn’t enough: ‘Trust in God, but tie your camel’ Bengaluru Daycare Abuse: Evening news wrap: FIR against five caregivers in Bengaluru daycare abuse case; Russia imports Indian gasoline as Ukraine strikes cause fuel shortages & more | India News Silver price crash: It was being called the ‘new gold’. So what went wrong? JEECUP counselling 2026: Round 1 seat allotment result out; direct link to download here Jr NTR’s film with Trivikram Srinivas sparks row over Lord Murugan’s origins in tagline ‘Born in the North’ As Elon Musk promises ‘Jesus-Level’ miracles from Neuralink: Here’s what he means Quote of the day by Princess Diana: “If we all play our part in making our children feel valued, the result will be…” ‘BJP betrayed both Ram & Constitution’: Akhilesh Yadav attacks BJP over Ayodhya row NEW DELHI: Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday attacked BJP, accusing it of betraying both Lord Ram and the Constitution, while taking a sarcastic swipe at those allegedly involved in the Ayodhya Temple embezzlement case.Addressing a press conference at the party headquarters in Lucknow on his 53rd birthday, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister suggested that those responsible should voluntarily return the alleged misappropriated offerings.”Lord Ram is so compassionate that if they (BJP) switch off the CCTV cameras and close their eyes for a little while, the offerings will automatically return. If the BJP appeals to those who have taken them, everything will come back,” Yadav said.”The first name of maryada (propriety) is Lord Shri Ram, and the second is the Constitution. The BJP has betrayed both. It has deceived both Lord Ram and the Constitution,” he added.Referring to the outcome of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Samajwadi Party chief claimed that voters had acted to protect the Constitution and accused the BJP of now attempting to undermine it.”The people saved the Constitution through their vote. Now the BJP wants to change the Constitution by poaching opposition MPs. This is a very serious issue,” he said.The SP chief alleged that recent developments surrounding the Ram Temple had politically exposed the BJP. “By the grace of Lord Ram, what has happened has exposed them. Lord Ram himself has revealed their true face and shown the country the right direction,” Yadav said.Referring to allegations of misappropriation of offerings made by devotees at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, he demanded that all valuables be returned.”Whether or not the truth comes out, at least the silver should be returned, the gold should be returned, the diamonds and jewellery should be returned. The golden khadau and silver khadau should be returned,” he said.Yadav alleged that the BJP was concerned that public donations could decline if people’s faith was shaken.”They are worried that daan and chanda (donations and contributions) may stop because these have become a major source of strength for elections. Corruption and resources have become the basis of forming governments. This poses a grave threat to democracy,” he alleged.Accusing the BJP of hurting people’s faith, Yadav said, “The BJP has played with the Constitution, faith and devotion. The people of this country are generous and innocent. The day when there will be no theft of Ram’s wealth, that day you will see a change.”When asked about visiting the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Yadav reiterated that Lord Ram belonged to all and not to any political party.”I have answered this question many times. Lord Ram belongs to everyone. We believed in Lord Ram long before the BJP started claiming ownership over him. Ram Darbar has always been present in our homes and families, and we have always worshipped him,” he said.”There is no Sanatani family in India where this tradition does not exist. But today the BJP wants to decide everything: when people should visit the temple and how they should express their faith. This is not our tradition,” he added.Yadav said he would visit a temple after the completion of the Kedareshwar Dham project in Etawah. “We are constructing Kedareshwar Dham. Once it is completed, we will go there for darshan,” he said.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 MediaVideosCalcutta Stock Exchange To Be Revived: Bengal’s Push To Reposition Kolkata As Key Financial CentreAkhilesh Yadav’s Trusted Aide Kamal Akhtar Loses Key SP Post As UP’s Moradabad Turf War SpiralsOne Year After Operation Sindoor, 117 Indian And Pakistani Leaders Urge Peace And DialogueRam Temple Donation Theft: Police Reveal Alleged Inside Operation Behind Crores HeistJuly 1 Rule Changes Explained: Costlier Passports, Free Aadhaar Updates, EPFO And ITR DeadlinesWhy Thousands Are Visiting Lohagad Fort’s Alleged Murder Spot | ‘Siya Point’ |Dark Tourism ExplainedUS Supreme Court Rejects Trump’s Birthright Order, Big Relief For Indians In USBilawal Bhutto Accuses India Of ‘Weaponising’ Water Amid Indus Waters Treaty RowDelhi May Soon Get Its Own London Eye As DDA Revives Giant Observation Wheel ProjectWhy Nayara Reduced Fuel Prices But PSU Oil Companies Didn’t?123Photostories6 desi Indian foods that are better eaten at night than in the morningPsychology says parents who stay calm during tantrums help children learn emotional regulationPsychology says people-pleasing is a trauma response, and you don’t even know itFrom Naan to Khulcha: 12 popular Indian breads, their calories and what they taste best with8 Most beautiful train journeys in South India you should take at least onceAlia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh rewrite promotional style rules with sharp denim cuts and a striking diamond ring6 lakes in India with clear, mirror-like water that deserves a visitKidney disease symptoms are often vague, says Mayo Clinic: These 8 signs can appear when your kidneys lose functionFrom John Cena to Wayne Rooney: 12 stars on their hair transplant journeys.Success quote of the day by Pelé: ‘I don’t believe there is such a thing as a “born” soccer player’123Hot PicksLPG gas priceCBSE best marks ruleNEET PG RegistrationRam Temple donation theftMumbai RainsNew visa ruleMarcus SmartNayara petrol priceHow to Watch FIFA World Cup TodayTop TrendingNayara energy petrol priceLPG priceKetan Agarwal Murder CaseFIFA World Cup 2026Monaco BlastBengaluru TechieAnukalp MishraSergei IvanovIndigo Check-in Bag FaresAyodhya Ram Temple Donation Theft Updated: Jul 01, 2026, 18:45 IST SRMJEEE 2026 Phase 3 admit card and slot booking from July 2; exam on July 4 and 5 Aamir Khan and Gracy Singh recreate iconic Bhuvan and Gauri romance during emotional script reading session for 25th anniversary of ‘Lagaan’ – Watch | Hindi Movie News ‘I cannot hear or speak, but I will be happy to assist’: Passenger’s encounter with deaf and mute airport employee wins hearts online | Meet Vinisha Umashankar: The teen who took a solar ironing cart to the UN climate stage and stunned world leaders | Indian-origin truck driver Ashwani Sharma killed in fuel tanker crash in Australia; wife says he was just 25 years old Ayodhya Ram Temple NEW DELHI: A private security agency, six of whose recruits are among the eight people arrested in the Ayodhya Ram Temple donation “theft” case, on Wednesday denied any involvement in the alleged embezzlement of offerings, saying it had deployed personnel for the State Bank of India (SBI) at the bank’s request.The clarification came amid the ongoing probe into the case by a Special Investigation Team (SIT), which has made the arrests.SBI, which maintains the temple trust’s account, had outsourced the task of counting donation funds to Varanasi-based Sainik Security Services.Gaurav Singh, director of Sainik Security Services, said the company had recruited 22 personnel and deployed them at SBI’s Ayodhya branch for housekeeping work, adding that it had no role in assigning their duties thereafter.“Our company has nothing to do with the alleged donation theft at the Ram temple. We recruited 22 people and sent them to the SBI branch in Ayodhya for housekeeping work. What work the bank assigned to them thereafter is not known to us,” Singh told PTI.“We were engaged only to provide housekeeping staff to SBI. What duties these employees eventually performed and why they performed them is for the bank to explain,” he added.He further claimed that all 22 personnel were recruited on the instructions of the chief manager of SBI’s Ayodhya branch.“The chief manager of the SBI branch in Ayodhya had sent us the list of names and biodata of these 22 people. They were all earlier working with another agency,” Singh stated.According to reports, the bank had sought to replace the outsourced cash-counting staff at the Ram Temple around three months ago after suspecting irregularities in the handling of donations. However, members of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust reportedly did not allow the staff to be changed.The alleged embezzlement came to light after an SIT constituted by the Uttar Pradesh government submitted its preliminary findings, following which an FIR was registered on June 25.Arrests followed, and nearly Rs 80 lakh in cash, along with some foreign currency, has been recovered so far from six of the accused.The investigation is underway.(With PTI inputs)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 MediaVideosAkhilesh Yadav’s Trusted Aide Kamal Akhtar Loses Key SP Post As UP’s Moradabad Turf War SpiralsOne Year After Operation Sindoor, 117 Indian And Pakistani Leaders Urge Peace And DialogueRam Temple Donation Theft: Police Reveal Alleged Inside Operation Behind Crores HeistJuly 1 Rule Changes Explained: Costlier Passports, Free Aadhaar Updates, EPFO And ITR DeadlinesWhy Thousands Are Visiting Lohagad Fort’s Alleged Murder Spot | ‘Siya Point’ |Dark Tourism ExplainedUS Supreme Court Rejects Trump’s Birthright Order, Big Relief For Indians In USBilawal Bhutto Accuses India Of ‘Weaponising’ Water Amid Indus Waters Treaty RowDelhi May Soon Get Its Own London Eye As DDA Revives Giant Observation Wheel ProjectWhy Nayara Reduced Fuel Prices But PSU Oil Companies Didn’t?Dhaka Threatens Action Against Media Airing Sheikh Hasina’s Statements After Return Claim123PhotostoriesPsychology says parents who stay calm during tantrums help children learn emotional regulationPsychology says people-pleasing is a trauma response, and you don’t even know itFrom Naan to Khulcha: 12 popular Indian breads, their calories and what they taste best with8 Most beautiful train journeys in South India you should take at least onceAlia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh rewrite promotional style rules with sharp denim cuts and a striking diamond ring6 lakes in India with clear, mirror-like water that deserves a visitKidney disease symptoms are often vague, says Mayo Clinic: These 8 signs can appear when your kidneys lose functionFrom John Cena to Wayne Rooney: 12 stars on their hair transplant journeys.Success quote of the day by Pelé: ‘I don’t believe there is such a thing as a “born” soccer player”Self-medication with the wrong eye drops is a key reason eye infections spike during the monsoon,’ expert warns123Hot PicksLPG gas priceCBSE best marks ruleNEET PG RegistrationRam Temple donation theftMumbai RainsNew visa ruleMarcus SmartNayara petrol priceHow to Watch FIFA World Cup TodayTop TrendingNayara energy petrol priceLPG priceKetan Agarwal Murder CaseFIFA World Cup 2026Monaco BlastBengaluru TechieAnukalp MishraSergei IvanovIndigo Check-in Bag FaresAyodhya Ram Temple Donation Theft RRB Group D result 2026: What’s next for shortlisted candidates? PET, salary and further stages explained Bosco Martis Health Update: Bosco Martis DISCHARGED from hospital after chest congestion, shares heartfelt note; ‘Couldn’t head home’ | “Bahut zaruri hai chote bhai ka exam hai”: Cop’s plea to truck drivers for stranded student wins hearts on social media | Degrees of denial: Paris blames US for climate change in heated exchange Spanish saying on friendship that is still true today: ‘Tell me who your friends are, and I’ll tell you who you are’ Over 100 prominent personalities from India and Pakistan have appealed to PM Modi and Shehbaz Sharif to revive bilateral dialogue. NEW DELHI: More than 100 prominent personalities from India and Pakistan, including former Jammu and Kashmir chief ministers Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, have jointly appealed to Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif to revive bilateral dialogue and restore normal ties between the two neighbours, The appeal came through an open letter dated June 30, coordinated by OP Shah, chairman of the Centre for Peace and Progress. Signed by 61 Indians and 55 Pakistanis, it urged both governments to take “meaningful and sustained steps towards restoring peace, normalcy, dialogue and cooperation in South Asia” and stressed that “sustained engagement and dialogue remain the only viable path to resolving differences”.Among the signatories are former RAW chief AS Dulat, Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Jha, moderate Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, former Union minister Mani Shankar Aiyar, former Pakistan foreign minister Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri, former diplomat Ashraf Jehangir Qazi, along with retired diplomats and members of civil society from both countries.’State and citizens are different’Speaking to news agency IANS, Manoj Jha said the initiative was aimed at strengthening people-to-people ties while recognising the distinction between citizens and governments.”Our intention has always been consistent, and I have both written and spoken about it clearly. There is a difference between the state and the citizen. Music does not need a visa, films do not need a visa, and in the digital age, even cartoons do not need a visa.””What I mean is that music, poetry and stories transcend borders. This distinction has been explained ever since the time of Partition by Mahatma Gandhi. In that context, we want people to understand the difference between citizens and the state. Engagement with the state is a matter between our government and their government, whether it concerns water-sharing, terrorism or other bilateral issues.”Jha also referred to developments following the Pahalgam terror attack and questioned the continuation of some forms of engagement.”We are still disturbed that after the Pahalgam incident, cricket was played in Dubai. Was the entire country not in pain? At the same time, track-two diplomacy is taking place in Colombo,”Referring to recent remarks by the RSS leadership, he added, “When we hear statements from the RSS, don’t we understand what they mean? We are simply urging better people-to-people contact between India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh to improve understanding, while core irritants should be addressed gradually.”What RSS cheif saidThe appeal comes days after RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat backed remarks made by the organisation’s general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale in favour of keeping channels of communication with Pakistan open. Speaking at an event in Thiruvananthapuram, Bhagwat said the RSS follows the Union government’s foreign policy and does not have an independent position on Pakistan.”But there are a lot of people in Pakistan who believe the partition of Bharat was wrong and many journalists there praise the RSS and its work. There is a distinct undercurrent there of people being anti-Pakistan and against the two-nation theory and they say living together was better,”Bhagwat also argued that India should continue to keep the possibility of dialogue alive.”In a future war, if India defeats Pakistan beyond repair, the people there will have to be brought into the fold of Bharat or they should be able to live peacefully in that country itself. For that, the doors of dialogue need to be kept open,””We are not like Hitler. That is not our nature or our way. So we need to keep some doors open. We should vanquish injustice and tyranny, but we should also preserve what is good,”Besides calling for renewed political engagement, the signatories urged both countries to restore full diplomatic relations, appoint high commissioners, resume visa services and reopen a comprehensive dialogue covering all outstanding issues, including Jammu and Kashmir. They also sought the revival of trade, cross-border transport links, religious pilgrimages and greater exchanges among students, journalists, artists and business leaders.”The future of South Asia should be shaped not by division and conflict, but by peace, prosperity and shared progress,” the letter said, describing the initiative as a call to place the welfare of nearly two billion people above “conflict, confrontation and division”.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 MediaVideosAkhilesh Yadav’s Trusted Aide Kamal Akhtar Loses Key SP Post As UP’s Moradabad Turf War SpiralsOne Year After Operation Sindoor, 117 Indian And Pakistani Leaders Urge Peace And DialogueRam Temple Donation Theft: Police Reveal Alleged Inside Operation Behind Crores HeistJuly 1 Rule Changes Explained: Costlier Passports, Free Aadhaar Updates, EPFO And ITR DeadlinesWhy Thousands Are Visiting Lohagad Fort’s Alleged Murder Spot | ‘Siya Point’ |Dark Tourism ExplainedUS Supreme Court Rejects Trump’s Birthright Order, Big Relief For Indians In USBilawal Bhutto Accuses India Of ‘Weaponising’ Water Amid Indus Waters Treaty RowDelhi May Soon Get Its Own London Eye As DDA Revives Giant Observation Wheel ProjectWhy Nayara Reduced Fuel Prices But PSU Oil Companies Didn’t?Dhaka Threatens Action Against Media Airing Sheikh Hasina’s Statements After Return Claim123PhotostoriesPsychology says parents who stay calm during tantrums help children learn emotional regulationPsychology says people-pleasing is a trauma response, and you don’t even know itFrom Naan to Khulcha: 12 popular Indian breads, their calories and what they taste best with8 Most beautiful train journeys in South India you should take at least onceAlia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh rewrite promotional style rules with sharp denim cuts and a striking diamond ring6 lakes in India with clear, mirror-like water that deserves a visitKidney disease symptoms are often vague, says Mayo Clinic: These 8 signs can appear when your kidneys lose functionFrom John Cena to Wayne Rooney: 12 stars on their hair transplant journeys.Success quote of the day by Pelé: ‘I don’t believe there is such a thing as a “born” soccer player”Self-medication with the wrong eye drops is a key reason eye infections spike during the monsoon,’ expert warns123Hot PicksLPG gas priceCBSE best marks ruleNEET PG RegistrationRam Temple donation theftMumbai RainsNew visa ruleZohran MamdaniNayara petrol priceHow to Watch FIFA World Cup TodayTop TrendingNayara energy petrol priceLPG priceKetan Agarwal Murder CaseFIFA World Cup 2026Monaco BlastBengaluru TechieAnukalp MishraSergei IvanovIndigo Check-in Bag FaresAyodhya Ram Temple Donation Theft Vaibhav Sooryavanshi dubbed ‘almost unplayable’ as England receive major warning | Cricket News After Ben Stokes’ retirement, Harry Brook says he’d ‘be happy to take’ England Test captaincy As Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Huma Qureshi and Tara Sutaria take centre stage in ‘Toxic’; here’s what you didn’t know about Yash The ‘World’s Longest Train Journey’ takes you across 13 countries in about 21 days on one epic rail adventure | Russia turns to India for gasoline as fuel shortages deepen after Ukrainian strikes UAE mandates identity verification on social media platforms to shield children online after under-15 ban India Pakistan share prisoner exchange lists India and Pakistan exchanged lists of civil prisoners and fishermen in each other’s custody on Wednesday, a biannual exercise carried out under the provisions of the Agreement on Consular Access signed between the two countries in 2008.The exchange took place simultaneously through diplomatic channels in New Delhi and Islamabad, with both sides handing over lists of nationals believed to be in each other’s custody.Under the agreement, signed on May 21, 2008, both governments are required to maintain a comprehensive list of nationals of the other country under arrest, detention or imprisonment, and exchange these lists on January 1 and July 1 every year. The agreement also provides for immediate notification of arrest, detention or imprisonment of any person of the other country to the respective High Commission, and requires both governments to expeditiously inform the other of sentences awarded to convicted nationals.India shared lists of 386 civil prisoners and 53 fishermen in its custody who are Pakistani or believed to be Pakistani. Pakistan shared lists of 52 civil prisoners and 198 fishermen in its custody who are Indian or believed to be Indian.The Government of India has consistently called for the early release and repatriation of civil prisoners, fishermen along with their boats, and missing Indian defence personnel from Pakistan’s custody. In Wednesday’s exchange, New Delhi urged Islamabad to expedite the release and repatriation of 188 Indian fishermen and civil prisoners who have completed their sentences.India also sought immediate consular access to 13 civil prisoners in Pakistan’s custody who are believed to be Indian and have not been provided consular access so far. The Government of India urged Pakistan to ensure the safety, security and welfare of all Indian and believed-to-be-Indian prisoners pending their release and repatriation.Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the exchange, stating that Islamabad handed over to the Indian High Commission a list of 250 Indian prisoners in Pakistan, comprising 52 civilian prisoners and 198 fishermen.Pakistan urged India to release and repatriate 97 Pakistani prisoners, 64 civilian prisoners and 33 fishermen, who have completed their sentences and whose nationality has been confirmed. Islamabad also called for expeditious consular access to all believed-to-be-Pakistani prisoners to facilitate early confirmation of their nationality, and urged India to ensure the safety, security and well-being of all Pakistani and believed-to-be-Pakistani prisoners awaiting release and repatriation.The agreement provides that both governments agree to release and repatriate persons within one month of confirmation of their national status and completion of sentences. In cases of arrest, detention or sentence made on political or security grounds, each side may examine the case on its merits in special cases which call for or require compassionate and humanitarian considerations, and may exercise discretion subject to its laws and regulations to allow early release and repatriation.As a result of sustained efforts by the Government of India, 2,661 Indian fishermen and 78 Indian civil prisoners have been repatriated from Pakistan since 2014. These include 500 Indian fishermen and 20 Indian civil prisoners who have been repatriated from Pakistan since 2023 till date.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 MediaVideosAkhilesh Yadav’s Trusted Aide Kamal Akhtar Loses Key SP Post As UP’s Moradabad Turf War SpiralsOne Year After Operation Sindoor, 117 Indian And Pakistani Leaders Urge Peace And DialogueRam Temple Donation Theft: Police Reveal Alleged Inside Operation Behind Crores HeistJuly 1 Rule Changes Explained: Costlier Passports, Free Aadhaar Updates, EPFO And ITR DeadlinesWhy Thousands Are Visiting Lohagad Fort’s Alleged Murder Spot | ‘Siya Point’ |Dark Tourism ExplainedUS Supreme Court Rejects Trump’s Birthright Order, Big Relief For Indians In USBilawal Bhutto Accuses India Of ‘Weaponising’ Water Amid Indus Waters Treaty RowDelhi May Soon Get Its Own London Eye As DDA Revives Giant Observation Wheel ProjectWhy Nayara Reduced Fuel Prices But PSU Oil Companies Didn’t?Dhaka Threatens Action Against Media Airing Sheikh Hasina’s Statements After Return Claim123PhotostoriesPsychology says parents who stay calm during tantrums help children learn emotional regulationPsychology says people-pleasing is a trauma response, and you don’t even know itFrom Naan to Khulcha: 12 popular Indian breads, their calories and what they taste best with8 Most beautiful train journeys in South India you should take at least onceAlia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh rewrite promotional style rules with sharp denim cuts and a striking diamond ring6 lakes in India with clear, mirror-like water that deserves a visitKidney disease symptoms are often vague, says Mayo Clinic: These 8 signs can appear when your kidneys lose functionFrom John Cena to Wayne Rooney: 12 stars on their hair transplant journeys.Success quote of the day by Pelé: ‘I don’t believe there is such a thing as a “born” soccer player”Self-medication with the wrong eye drops is a key reason eye infections spike during the monsoon,’ expert warns123Hot PicksLPG gas priceCBSE best marks ruleNEET PG RegistrationRam Temple donation theftMumbai RainsNew visa ruleZohran MamdaniNayara petrol priceHow to Watch FIFA World Cup TodayTop TrendingNayara energy petrol priceLPG priceKetan Agarwal Murder CaseFIFA World Cup 2026Monaco BlastBengaluru TechieAnukalp MishraSergei IvanovIndigo Check-in Bag FaresAyodhya Ram Temple Donation Theft Amid Deepika Padukone’s 8-hour shift row, Rajkumar Hirani says Ranbir Kapoor would come on set at 3am for ‘Sanju’ shoot: ‘They understand the importance’ Psychology says that individuals who travel with family tend to exhibit higher emotional resilience, stronger social bonding, and better overall well-being | Quote of the day by Carl Jung: “The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two…” – how people change each other