VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html Indian-origin Google executive completes 20 years at the company, shares 6 career lessons that shaped him | Odisha’s Pucca Ghar Yojana (Mining): Eligibility, process, purpose explained The US army built a 1,500-mile Alaska Highway through wilderness in just eight months during World War II Kangana Ranaut on Udhayanidhi Stalin’s arrest NEW DELHI: Actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut on Tuesday backed the police action against Tamil Nadu leader of opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin, saying that although the DMK leader is now out on bail, his arrested had set a “good precedent.”“Public display of filthy abuses, double-meaning obscene and vulgar jokes is not acceptable in any civilised society. Mr Stalin was sent to jail for the offence. He might be out on bail by now, but it’s a good precedent,” Ranaut, who often makes headlines for her own controversial remarks, said in a post on her Instagram Stories. Kangana Ranaut postHer remarks came after the Tamil Nadu Police arrested Udhayanidhi Stalin over an alleged “distasteful double-meaning remark” made during a protest on Monday against the state’s C Joseph Vijay-led government. The remark was allegedly made in response to members of the public chanting an actress’s name at a gathering in Thanjavur.The Madras high court subsequently directed the police to release the former deputy chief minister after the Tamil Nadu government informed the court that Udhayanidhi would be granted station bail following the inquiry.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe submission was made during the hearing of the DMK leader’s anticipatory bail plea.During his speech on Monday, Udhayanidhi had accused chief minister C Joseph Vijay of showing little interest in resolving the Cauvery water dispute with neighbouring Karnataka or safeguarding farmers’ interests.At one point, a section of DMK supporters began chanting the name of a Tamil actress, apparently suggesting that Vijay’s priorities lay elsewhere.Udhayanidhi then paused, smiled and remarked, “The water should come there, irrespective of where it is supposed to come from.”As the crowd erupted in cheers and laughter, he added, “No. I was referring only to the Cauvery,” drawing another round of applause and laughter.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 MediaVideosNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can HappenUdhayanidhi Stalin Detained Over Trisha Row |FIR, Political Storm & “I’ll Face It Legally” Explained123PhotostoriesWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips5 hair oils that may be making your dandruff worse5 signs your partner is falling out of love with you: What to watch for before it’s too late123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh UPSSSC exam calendar 2026 out; PET registration underway, October exam on schedule Bradley Cooper and Gigi Hadid’s love story: From dinner dates, cute confessions to wedding rumours 10 monsoon travel essentials every traveller should pack this rainy season | Iran war depletes US missile stocks, raising concerns over readiness for conflict with China: Report Archaeologists discover a rare 600-year-old saint statue and human bone reliquaries beneath Berlin’s oldest neighbourhood | World News SC directs high court CJs to nominate co-opted women members NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Tuesday observed that State Bar Councils have increasingly become “men’s clubs” and said the monopoly over their representation and functioning must be dismantled.A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana made the remarks while hearing petitions related to elections to the Bar Council of India and State Bar Councils.“Bar Councils have become men’s clubs. We may observe that people take it like a monopoly. This has to be completely dismantled,” CJI Surya Kant remarked during the hearing.The court directed the Chief Justices of the jurisdictional High Courts to nominate two women members to every State Bar Council through co-option. One must be a former woman High Court judge and the other a senior woman advocate with a fair standing at the Bar.The court said the nominated members should have no connection with the election process so that they can function independently and impartially.“As far as co-option is concerned…10% we always had in mind. There should be co-option of those who don’t have anything to do with elections,” the court observed.The Supreme Court also clarified that a woman who unsuccessfully contested a State Bar Council election would not be barred from being considered for co-option.The court referred the issue of the methodology for calculating transferable votes, particularly for women candidates, to the High-Powered Supervisory Committee headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia. The committee will reconsider the methodology after inviting suggestions from members of the Bar and giving them an opportunity for an oral hearing.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe Supreme Court had earlier directed that women should have 30 per cent% representation in State Bar Councils, with 20 per cent of the seats filled through direct elections and the remaining 10 per cent through co-option where required.The High-Powered Supervisory Committee was constituted by the court to oversee elections to the Bar Council of India and State Bar Councils and deal with election-related disputes.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 Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can HappenUdhayanidhi Stalin Detained Over Trisha Row |FIR, Political Storm & “I’ll Face It Legally” ExplainedPulwama Man Held With Hand Grenade, Anti-National Posters After Kulgam Terror Attack123PhotostoriesWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips5 hair oils that may be making your dandruff worse5 signs your partner is falling out of love with you: What to watch for before it’s too late123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Aug 04, 2026, 20:31 IST ‘One lakh people came to see Amitabh Bachchan, the crowd couldn’t be controlled by the police,’ Rishi Kapoor once recalled witnessing his stardom Man quits ₹11 LPA Bengaluru job, claims he now earns ₹28 lakh a year selling water cans | Jannat Zubair calls link-up rumours with Elvish Yadav ‘a little too much’ | In 1996, Campbell’s keeled glass snail was declared extinct; 30 years later, more than 1,000 captive-bred snails have been returned to Norfolk Island CM Dhami also inaugurated the Chief Minister’s Health Service Camp at the Alaknanda Hotel premises HARIDWAR: Uttarakhand chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Tuesday welcomed Kanwariyas arriving in Haridwar for the annual Kanwar Yatra, showering flower petals on Shiva devotees from a helicopter and washing the feet of five pilgrims as a mark of respect.CM Dhami also inaugurated the Chief Minister’s Health Service Camp at the Alaknanda Hotel premises and reviewed the medical facilities and arrangements made for the pilgrims. He interacted with Kanwariyas from different states and served food to the devotees.Addressing the gathering during the felicitation programme, Chief Minister Dhami said that the Uttarakhand Government is committed to ensuring that every Shiva devotee visiting Devbhoomi experiences a safe, convenient, and respectful pilgrimage. He said that the Kanwar Yatra is not merely a religious event but a grand celebration of India’s Sanatan traditions, social harmony, and spiritual consciousness. The state government, in coordination with all concerned departments, is continuously working to ensure the successful conduct of the pilgrimage.The chief minister said that for the past five years, he has had the privilege of serving Shiva devotees during the Kanwar Yatra. He described Lord Shiva as the source of faith, strength, and devotion for millions of people. Despite challenging conditions, devotees undertake journeys of hundreds of kilometres while chanting “Bam Bam Bhole,” reflecting their unwavering devotion. He added that the Kanwar Yatra also symbolises discipline, service, dedication, and social unity.Chief minister Dhami informed that more than one crore Kanwariyas have successfully collected holy Ganga water and continued towards their destinations this year. He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, unprecedented efforts are being made to preserve and develop India’s cultural heritage and sacred sites. Projects such as the Kashi Vishwanath Dham Corridor, Mahakal Lok, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi, the reconstruction of Kedarnath Dham, and the Badrinath Master Plan are giving Indian culture a new global identity.Referring to the 2013 Kedarnath disaster, the Chief Minister said that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kedarnath Dham has been transformed into a grand and divine pilgrimage destination through extensive reconstruction. Facilities such as the Aastha Path, Saraswati Ghat, the statue of Adi Shankaracharya, and accommodation for pilgrimage priests have been developed. He further stated that proposed projects such as the Ganga Corridor in Haridwar and the Sharda Corridor will provide fresh momentum to the state’s development and religious tourism.The CM emphasised that the safety of pilgrims remains the government’s highest priority. He said that CCTV surveillance, drone monitoring, ambulance services, health camps, and emergency response systems have been deployed along the pilgrimage routes. He also appealed to devotees to maintain discipline, uphold the sanctity of the pilgrimage, and respect religious traditions throughout the journey.He appreciated the dedicated efforts of the police, district administration, health department, sanitation workers, environmental volunteers, NGOs, and all personnel engaged in service during the Kanwar Yatra. He said that the successful organisation of such a massive event is possible only through collective commitment and teamwork.Chief minister Dhami also honoured five police personnel and five sanitation workers (Paryavaran Mitras) for their outstanding contribution to the successful management of the Kanwar Yatra. He said that the recognition symbolises the state’s gratitude to all the frontline workers who work day and night tirelessly to ensure security, cleanliness, healthcare, and other essential services for millions of devotees.Earlier in the day, Dhami highlighted the religious significance of visiting Binsar Mahadev Temple in Ranikhet during the holy month of Shravan.In a post on X, CM Dhami wrote, “On the sacred occasion of the Shravan month, the worship of Lord Bholenath holds special significance. During this auspicious time, devotees arrive in large numbers at the Binsar Mahadev Temple, nestled in the lap of the dense cedar forests of Ranikhet (Almora), seeking faith, devotion, and spiritual peace. Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThis region not only offers the pilgrims a divine experience but also a unique communion with nature. If you are travelling to Ranikhet during the Shravan month, be sure to visit this sacred abode of Lord Shiva for darshan and worship to attain the benefits of spiritual merit.”Shravan (or Sawan) holds immense significance in Hinduism. It is believed that the Shravan month is the most beloved month of Lord Shiva. Worshipping Shiva in this month gives relief from all troubles. This year, the holy month of Sawan begins on July 30 and concludes on August 28.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can HappenUdhayanidhi Stalin Detained Over Trisha Row |FIR, Political Storm & “I’ll Face It Legally” Explained123PhotostoriesWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips5 hair oils that may be making your dandruff worse5 signs your partner is falling out of love with you: What to watch for before it’s too late123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Rajinikanth and Deepika Padukone starrer ‘Kochadaiiyaan’ AI-restored version theatrical re-release gets green signal as Madras High Court dismisses plea Optical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the 'blue-eyed fox' among the browns in this jungle Security on high alert in Jammu & Kashmir: Pakistani drone sighted in Kathua, anti-terror search intensifies in Poonch Meet Darshan Magdum, Indian member of US boy band, who finally gets O-1 visa and the Internet is behind it AI is increasingly being used to tackle some of the country’s most persistent development challenges. AI is often discussed in terms of chatbots, coding assistants, and workplace productivity. But a quieter transformation is taking shape across India, where AI is increasingly being used to tackle some of the country’s most persistent development challenges, from helping farmers cope with climate change to assisting teachers in rural classrooms, improving TB screening and making govt services available in multiple languages.According to MeitY, India’s digital economy contributed Rs 31.6 lakh crore, or 11.7% of the GDP, in 2022-23. By 2030, that share is expected to approach one-fifth of the economy. Increasingly, govts, tech companies, startups, nonprofits and research organisations are working together to deploy AI where it can reach millions of people rather than a handful of users.Govts, tech companies, startups, nonprofits and research organisations are working together to deploy AI where it can reach millions of people rather than a handful of users.Education offers one of the clearest examples. Microsoft’s Shiksha Copilot, developed with the Shikshana Foundation using Azure OpenAI Service, is helping around 1,000 teachers prepare localised lesson plans for nearly 30,000 children across 750 govt schools in Karnataka.What once took teachers hours can now be done in about 10 minutes. The programme is expected to expand to another 8,000 teachers across Karnataka and Telangana. The company has also announced a larger commitment to train 10 million Indians in AI by 2030 after achieving its earlier target of skilling 2 million people ahead of schedule.Agriculture has emerged as another major beneficiary. Farmers increasingly face unpredictable rainfall, pest outbreaks, and rising temperatures, while agricultural extension services remain stretched. AI-powered advisory platforms help bridge that gap.Farmer.Chat, developed by Digital Green, provides advice through voice, text, images and videos in local languages. It offers recommendations tailored to crops, soils, weather, and local conditions. The platform reportedly expanded from 15,000 to 250,000 Indian users within a year while costing less than$1 per farmer annually. Digital Green also says it has reduced the cost of introducing a new farming practice from $35 to under $1 by using AI-driven advisory systems.Non-profit institute Wadhwani AI uses similar technologies at a larger systems level. Its AI tools are now reported to have reached more than 190 million people. The organisation says its solutions have helped prioritise over 35,000 villages for tuberculosis screening, supported nearly 2.7 lakh teachers, delivered personalised learning support to 7.9 million students and resolved more than 5 million agricultural grievances.Healthcare is seeing practical applications. Startup Qure.ai has developed an AI system that analyses chest X-rays for tuberculosis. A Health Technology Assessment by the Indian Institute of Public Health Gandhinagar reportedly found the technology to be more cost-effective than conventional screening pathways. That could be significant in a country that accounts for nearly 28% of the world’s new tuberculosis cases.And, language is a barrier AI is beginning to address. Platforms such as Bhashini aim to make govt services accessible in more than 22 Indian languages. AI-powered translation is already being used for grievance redressal, Aadhaar transliteration, railway enquiries and several citizen services, reducing dependence on English or Hindi and making digital governance more inclusive.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesClimate resilience is becoming another area of rapid innovation. SatSure combines AI with satellite imagery to help banks assess agricultural loans, monitor climate risks, and evaluate farms. The company says its systems operate across more than 70,000 villages, reducing loan underwriting time while improving assessments for farmers who often lack formal credit histories.India is also investing heavily in the infrastructure needed to support this ecosystem. Enterprise AI adoption is estimated at 87%, while the IndiaAI Mission has expanded national computing capacity to 38,000 GPUs under an outlay exceeding Rs 10,300 crore. Nearly universal 5G coverage, digital public infrastructure such as AgriStack and a growing climate-tech startup ecosystem are providing the foundations for wider AI deployment.The common thread across these initiatives is not the sophistication of the algorithms but their ability to solve everyday problems at scale.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can HappenUdhayanidhi Stalin Detained Over Trisha Row |FIR, Political Storm & “I’ll Face It Legally” ExplainedPulwama Man Held With Hand Grenade, Anti-National Posters After Kulgam Terror AttackHigh-Level Probe Ordered As Security Forces Launch Massive Valley-Wide Manhunt | Watch123PhotostoriesWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips5 hair oils that may be making your dandruff worse5 signs your partner is falling out of love with you: What to watch for before it’s too late123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh US stock market today: Wall Street near new record high as earnings drive rally; crude prices slip Madhuri Dixit sells Andheri west office space for Rs 4.85 crore, earns 824 percent profit as it was bought for Rs 52.5 lakh almost 18 years ago Want siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference Spices coated in cloth dye, talcum powder? Hyderabad raids expose shocking food adulteration Hidden for 2,000 years, this Egyptian tomb held 560 ushabti figurines meant to serve the dead in the afterlife Rahul Gandhi’s big claim over RSS involvement in Sainik Schools NEW DELHI: Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday reportedly alleged at a meeting of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence that the involvement of the RSS, the ideological mentor of the ruling BJP, is “increasing unnecessarily” in Sainik Schools across the country.According to ANI, the leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha, who is a member of the committee, referred to a media report while making the claim.The remarks prompted committee chair Radha Mohan Singh, a BJP MP, to ask Rahul Gandhi to provide documents supporting his claim. He also told the Wayanad MP that the documents would be forwarded to the concerned ministry for clarification.Another BJP member of the panel, Sudhanshu Trivedi, also questioned Rahul Gandhi on the basis of his allegation.The former Congress chief has repeatedly alleged that people linked to the RSS are “capturing” public institutions. He left the meeting early to attend a book launch event.According to sources, 70 Sainik Schools have been allotted to organisations like Vidya Bharati and Saraswati Sishu Mandir to run them in a partnership model.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence held a meeting to consider and adopt Action Taken Reports on DFG (2026-27) and Action Taken Report on subject ‘Review of Sainik Schools, Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) and Rashtriya Military Schools’.It also heard Oral evidence of the representatives of the Ministry of Defence/DPSUs on the subject “Modernisation and Self-reliance of Defence Public Sector Undertakings (Old DPSUs) – MSMEs as stakeholders.”The central government in December 2022 approved an initiative to set up 100 new Sainik Schools in partnership mode with NGOs/private schools/state government schools in all states and Union territories.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 MediaVideos’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can HappenUdhayanidhi Stalin Detained Over Trisha Row |FIR, Political Storm & “I’ll Face It Legally” ExplainedPulwama Man Held With Hand Grenade, Anti-National Posters After Kulgam Terror AttackHigh-Level Probe Ordered As Security Forces Launch Massive Valley-Wide Manhunt | WatchSC Clarifies ‘Criminal Antecedents’ Caveat;CJP Demands Immediate Withdrawal Of FIRs Against StudentsAssam Govt Launches Relief Package As Over 1.36 Lakh People Remain Flood Affected | Watch123Photostories10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips5 hair oils that may be making your dandruff worse5 signs your partner is falling out of love with you: What to watch for before it’s too lateFrom Collarwali to Charger: 5 legendary tigers of India123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Aug 04, 2026, 19:31 IST Will Nifty & Sensex continue to diverge? What new stock market timings, closing auction session mean Robert Master clarifies ‘dog’ remark says Preethi Sanjeev was not the target after backlash in Prabhu Deva controversy: ‘I used the wrong word’ Want to feel closer to God? These 5 simple habits can help NHL Free Agency Rumor: New York Rangers and Montreal Canadiens emerge as landing spots for ex $6.95M Seattle Kraken winger Andrew Tate’s lawyer warns Trump of political fallout if he doesn’t help jailed influencer in UK extradition case “Students are in severe pain, they don’t need PM’s forgiveness,” Rahul Gandhi said. NEW DELHI: Lok Sabha leader of opposition Rahul Gandhi Tuesday stepped up his attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his “will forgive them” remark for students accused of abusing him and his late mother during the anti-paper leak protest at Jantar Mantar.”Students are in severe pain, they don’t need PM’s forgiveness; Modi needs to apologise instead,” Rahul Gandhi was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.Directing his attack at BJP’s ideological mentor, the Congress leader said: “Behind the thinking of the Prime Minister, his colleagues, and the RSS lies a very dangerous and caustic idea”. Watch ‘Put Pellets Into Blood Of Our Students,’ Rahul Gandhi’s Attack On Hm Shah In LS Sparks Uproar”These people believe that the histories, identities, and languages of India’s diverse states are irrelevant, and that only the language and history defined by the RSS are important. This is why students are out on the streets. India will never accept its cultures, languages, or histories being trampled by anyone. They are defending the idea of India in their own way. RSS can’t change our history; India will not tolerate its history to be trampled upon by anybody,” Rahul Gandhi said.In an Instagram video posted on Friday night PM said that he will forgive young protesters accused of abusing him and his late mother, saying they are misguided children and it is “our job to show them the right way”.“Nothing is more painful than seeing a parent grieve their child. Behind every young life lost is a family carrying pain that will never leave them – and serious questions about a broken education system,” Gandhi said in a post on X where he also shared images of his interaction with parents and students.Last week on Wednesday, during the Lok Sabha proceedings, Rahul Gandhi attacked the government over the police action during the July 20 student protests, drawing sharp rebuttals from the treasury benches.Participating in the debate on the Bill, Rahul Gandhi took a direct swipe at Union home minister Amit Shah, claiming his absence from the House reflected “fear”.”I am very happy today to see that the so-called home minister of this country does not have the courage to come and sit here… Why is the home minister not here today? The home minister is not here today because he is scared,” Rahul said.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines”The home minister authorised the shooting on our students. He put pellets into the blood of our students. He ordered the students of India to be shot,” he alleged.Launching another attack on the government, Rahul said India’s education system was “terrible” and “cruel” and accused the Centre of privatising education.”Our education system is terrible, it’s cruel… Everything is being privatised… It is an extortion system, it is a brutal, terrible system,” he said.Alleging that the RSS is controlling the education ministry, Rahul said, “The soul of the system has been captured by the RSS. The resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan is superficial because Dharmendra Pradhan never ran the education ministry. The organisation that runs the education ministry is called the RSS. The man who runs it is an OSD sitting in the minister’s office,” Rahul said.He further claimed students were not being allowed to pursue their passions or question the system and were instead being forced to accept “the nonsensical history that the RSS fantasises about.”Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorRajeev SinghRajeev Singh is a Digital Content Producer with The Times of India. He covers politics, policies, defence, and conflicts for readers curious to know their implications. He loves digging into legal maxims and political trivia. On off days, when not turning pages or learning русский, he lives in the reverie of “what ifs” and “how abouts.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can HappenUdhayanidhi Stalin Detained Over Trisha Row |FIR, Political Storm & “I’ll Face It Legally” ExplainedPulwama Man Held With Hand Grenade, Anti-National Posters After Kulgam Terror AttackHigh-Level Probe Ordered As Security Forces Launch Massive Valley-Wide Manhunt | WatchSC Clarifies ‘Criminal Antecedents’ Caveat;CJP Demands Immediate Withdrawal Of FIRs Against StudentsAssam Govt Launches Relief Package As Over 1.36 Lakh People Remain Flood Affected | Watch123Photostories10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips5 hair oils that may be making your dandruff worse5 signs your partner is falling out of love with you: What to watch for before it’s too lateFrom Collarwali to Charger: 5 legendary tigers of India123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh BCCI bids farewell to Ryan ten Doeschate, T Dilip; thanks duo for Team India contributions R Madhavan says there are better swimmers in India than Vedaant, but people talk about him because he’s his son: ‘Stardom is a very dangerous thing’ 10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royalty Udhayanidhi Stalin arrest drama: Cops change venue where DMK leader will be quizzed – top developments Quote of the day by Giorgia Meloni: “To the women of this nation I want to say that being underestimated is a great advantage, because…” | World News File photo: Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann addresses the House NEW DELHI: The Punjab Assembly on Tuesday passed a resolution opposing the Centre’s E20 ethanol-blended fuel policy, expressing concern that the use of E20 fuel could damage vehicles that are not compatible with the higher ethanol blend.Punjab finance minister Harpal Singh Cheema moved the resolution on the second day of the monsoon session of the Assembly, questioning why the Centre advanced the rollout of the E20 fuel policy to 2026 instead of its earlier target of 2030.He also alleged that the BJP-led Union government had implemented the policy under pressure from the United States, the world’s largest ethanol producer.Participating in the debate, chief minister Bhagwant Mann claimed that E20 fuel had been “imposed” on the people without recommendations from experts.”There has been no expert study on the use of E20,” Mann said, alleging that vehicles were getting damaged because of the blended fuel.Questioning the Centre’s decision to accelerate the policy, Mann asked why E20, originally slated for implementation in 2030, was introduced in 2026.”Why was there such a hurry in its implementation?” he asked.The chief minister also demanded that consumers should have the choice of purchasing either E20 petrol or pure petrol at fuel stations instead of being compelled to use ethanol-blended fuel.Resolution comes amid AAP’s nationwide campaignThe Assembly resolution comes amid the Aam Aadmi Party’s nationwide campaign against the E20 fuel policy.Earlier in the day, AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal led a march towards the Prime Minister’s residence in Delhi with more than 2.30 lakh petitions opposing E20 petrol before the protesters were stopped by Delhi Police.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe party has been demanding that consumers be given the option to choose between pure petrol and E20 fuel, while also seeking lower prices for E20 if the government intends to promote its use.After the protest, Kejriwal alleged that the Centre had refused to meet the delegation despite a request for an appointment made a month ago.He claimed the government itself had acknowledged in Parliament that fuel efficiency declines with E20 and that certain engine components are affected.AAP plans to move similar resolutions against the E20 policy in the Assemblies of Gujarat, Goa and Jammu and Kashmir.The party has also held an “Ethanol Town Hall” and launched a nationwide signature campaign against the policy, arguing that vehicle owners should not be forced to use ethanol-blended fuel without adequate safeguards.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 MediaVideos’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can HappenUdhayanidhi Stalin Detained Over Trisha Row |FIR, Political Storm & “I’ll Face It Legally” ExplainedPulwama Man Held With Hand Grenade, Anti-National Posters After Kulgam Terror AttackHigh-Level Probe Ordered As Security Forces Launch Massive Valley-Wide Manhunt | WatchSC Clarifies ‘Criminal Antecedents’ Caveat;CJP Demands Immediate Withdrawal Of FIRs Against StudentsAssam Govt Launches Relief Package As Over 1.36 Lakh People Remain Flood Affected | Watch123PhotostoriesTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips5 hair oils that may be making your dandruff worse5 signs your partner is falling out of love with you: What to watch for before it’s too lateFrom Collarwali to Charger: 5 legendary tigers of IndiaNot lemon, baking soda or detergent: This one ingredient can remove foul smell permanently from water bottles and lunch boxes123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Updated: Aug 04, 2026, 16:50 IST Merchant Discount Rate on UPI transactions? Amendments to payments act may pave way – what it means Supreme Court to hear plea by six NEET-UG 2026 candidates over alleged OMR sheet discrepancies Keerthy Suresh reveals she stayed awake for 41 hours amid back-to-back shoots, calls it ‘a blessing’: ‘No problems to complain about’ 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could Born with a complex heart condition, a 6-year-old signed with the Carolina Panthers for one day and scored a touchdown in an NFL stadium Only 4 companies? Critics say barring small companies from hiring H-1B for 1-2 years is not enough “Anyone who receives a madrassa education does not chant ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’,” said Keshav Prasad Maurya. NEW DELHI: Uttar Pradesh deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya on Tuesday triggered a political row after claiming that people educated in madrassas “develop a terrorist-like mindset”.His remarks drew sharp criticism from the Samajwadi Party and prompted a defence of madrassa education from religious leaders.Speaking to reporters at Vidhan Bhavan, Maurya alleged that madrassa students do not express patriotic slogans and linked their education to extremism.”Anyone who receives a madrassa education does not chant ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ nor sing ‘Vande Mataram’, and develops a terrorist-like mindset,” he was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.The remarks were strongly criticised by senior Samajwadi Party leader Shivpal Yadav, who accused the BJP of harbouring extremists.”The BJP nurtures terrorists, and they are found right in their offices. The BJP provides training to all these terrorists, and they are found in their offices and homes,” Yadav said.Maurya’s statement also drew a response from Maulana Imam Maqbool, who runs a madrassa in Barabanki. He said madrassas provide both religious and modern education and rejected any attempt to associate them with Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesterrorism.According to Maqbool, students at madrassas study not only the Holy Quran but also subjects such as Urdu, Hindi, History, English, Science, Mathematics and Computer Studies.He said many madrassa graduates have gone on to become doctors and engineers and expressed hope that more students would join the civil services as IAS and IPS officers.Maqbool added that madrassas have always promoted patriotism, brotherhood and peace, describing it as unfortunate to link them with terrorism.He also said the Holy Quran teaches people not to speak ill of others or harbour negative thoughts against them.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorRajeev SinghRajeev Singh is a Digital Content Producer with The Times of India. He covers politics, policies, defence, and conflicts for readers curious to know their implications. He loves digging into legal maxims and political trivia. On off days, when not turning pages or learning русский, he lives in the reverie of “what ifs” and “how abouts.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can HappenUdhayanidhi Stalin Detained Over Trisha Row |FIR, Political Storm & “I’ll Face It Legally” ExplainedPulwama Man Held With Hand Grenade, Anti-National Posters After Kulgam Terror AttackHigh-Level Probe Ordered As Security Forces Launch Massive Valley-Wide Manhunt | WatchSC Clarifies ‘Criminal Antecedents’ Caveat;CJP Demands Immediate Withdrawal Of FIRs Against StudentsAssam Govt Launches Relief Package As Over 1.36 Lakh People Remain Flood Affected | WatchIndian Parl Panel Grills Meta Over PM Modi Video Takedown, Seeks Mark Zuckerberg’s Apology123PhotostoriesTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips5 hair oils that may be making your dandruff worse5 signs your partner is falling out of love with you: What to watch for before it’s too lateFrom Collarwali to Charger: 5 legendary tigers of IndiaNot lemon, baking soda or detergent: This one ingredient can remove foul smell permanently from water bottles and lunch boxesThe 7 germiest things in your hotel room that most guests touch without thinking123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Aug 04, 2026, 18:03 IST ‘Over 2000 samples tested’: Oil ministry dismisses fuel adulteration claims, says only 2 cases detected