VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html Jul 07, 2026, 16:21 IST Karnataka scraps late admission penalty fees for PU colleges from 2026-27 ‘It was a topic for the benefit and truth of Punjab’: Singer Jasbir Jassi lauds ‘true courage’ of Diljit Dosanjh and Honey Trehan’s ‘Satluj’ amid OTT removal Hummingbirds are pineapples’ best friends: Tiny birds who helped ‘speed up’ the fruit’s family evolution | Wealth Remedies by Date of Birth: Is Your Birthday Hiding a Money Secret? NASA’s Voyager 1 left Earth in 1977; now its signal takes over 22 hours to reach us and it is still sending data Pune realtor murder: Siya Goyal ‘secretly’ married Chetan Chaudhary months before killing Ketan Agarwal, claim sources Peace hinges on Ukraine’s ‘good will’: Kremlin slams ‘confrontational statements’ on Russia at Nato’s Ankara summit Karnataka chief minister DK Shivakumar paid tribute to Bharadwaj, recalling that he built more than 140 suspension bridges across the country, linking remote and hilly villages and making life easier for countless people. (X/@DKShivakumar) NEW DELHI: Padma Shri awardee Girish Bharadwaj, the engineer celebrated as the “Bridge Man of India” for transforming rural connectivity through low-cost suspension bridges, died at a private hospital in Sullia, Karnataka, early on Tuesday following a brief illness. He was 76.Bharadwaj’s death prompted tributes from across Karnataka, with political leaders and residents remembering him as an engineer whose work connected not only remote villages but also helped bridge the developmental divide faced by isolated communities.Taking to social media platform X, Karnataka chief minister DK Shivakumar paid tribute to Bharadwaj, recalling that he built more than 140 suspension bridges across the country, linking remote and hilly villages and making life easier for countless people.”I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Padma Shri awardee Dr Girish Bharadwaj, who was widely known as the “Bridge Man” for his pioneering work in building suspension bridges. With his demise, the state has lost a rare technical visionary and innovator,” he said.Shivakumar added that Bharadwaj’s contribution to society earned him deep respect in the communities he served.”According to him, in recognition of Bharadwaj’s selfless service through engineering and technology, grateful villagers fondly called him the “Visvesvaraya of Sullia.””May Dr Girish Bharadwaj’s soul rest in peace. I pray that God grants strength to his family and admirers to bear this irreparable loss. Om Shanti,” Shivakumar added.A mechanical engineer from Sullia in Karnataka’s Dakshina Kannada district, Bharadwaj dedicated more than three decades to improving access in some of India’s most inaccessible regions. Over the course of his career, he constructed more than 140 suspension footbridges across Karnataka, Kerala and several other states, helping thousands of people reach schools, hospitals and markets throughout the year.His journey began in 1989 when he built his first suspension bridge across the Payaswini River. The success of that project laid the foundation for a mission that would earn him nationwide recognition as the “Bridge Man of India”.In recognition of his contribution to rural connectivity and social service, the Government of India conferred the Padma Shri on Bharadwaj in 2017. His innovative, low-cost bridge designs continue to stand as a lasting legacy of engineering in service of some of the country’s most underserved communities.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 MediaVideosPM Modi’s Indonesia Visit : BrahMos, Astra Missiles, Critical Minerals And Big OutcomesUnpublished ARAI Study Flags E20 Compatibility Issues In Older VehiclesMumbai-Pune Expressway: 4 Reasons The New Corridor Failed Its First Monsoon TestRam Temple Row Escalates As Akhilesh Yadav Warns Nishikant Dubey Of FIR Over Social Media PostIndian Diplomat Protests Incorrect Map Depicting J&K As Part Of Pakistan At Dhaka SeminarOwaisi Says Amit Shah ‘Doesn’t Do Things Casually’, Claims Meeting Points to NRC RolloutRam Mandir Trust Meeting: Champat Rai’s Resignation Accepted, Donated Items Put On DisplayPM Modi Praises BJP Chief Nitin Nabin After Kejriwal’s ‘Who Are You’ Remark | WatchBaruipur Rape Horror: Mamata Leads Protest, CM Suvendu Vows to Ensure Death PenaltyRam Mandir Trust Chief Demands Strict Action As Donation Probe Intensifies Further123PhotostoriesMost expensive houses in India: Inside the country’s costliest residential propertiesWhy people don’t intervene during emergencies: The psychology of the bystander effect“I’m great at my job but neglect my personal life”: Why this creator’s video is striking a chord with many working women in their 30sRush over discounted Pointed Gourd (Parwal) in New Jersey: 8 traditional desi ways to enjoy it during summer season5 simple ways to make meditation a daily habitNational parks you can visit using Vande Bharat trains without taking a flight: India’s best wildlife getaways by railFrom a lush garden to vibrant interiors: Inside Anupamaa fame Rupali Ganguly’s nature-inspired Mumbai homeShould fruits be eaten before or after meals? Here’s what research actually saysHow to Identify Animal Paw Prints While TrekkingSonam to Janhvi: The Kapoor sisters turned Anshula Kapoor’s wedding into a fashion runway123Hot PicksArgentina vs EgyptPM Modi Indonesia VisitWayanad LandslideMumbai rain deathMumbai school holidayKimi AntonelliErling HaalandMumbai schools holidayMumbai-Pune expresswayTop TrendingIran-US WarMumbai FloodsBengal Rape CaseFIFA World Cup 2026CBSE Class 10 ResultRam temple donationMumbai rainStock Market TodayMumbai Rain DeathKCET mock seat allotment The biggest hurdle in India’s chip race isn’t the plan—it’s execution Kunal Kemmu recalls being advised to send gifts, host people, do a lot of PR to get more work: ‘I’ve been at home for six-eight months’ | The psychology of the bystander effect These 5 birth numbers are said to be the luckiest in love NASA Chief says China can soon outsmart US in space exploration: But could shape the future of space ‘Stop the genocide’: Baloch protesters in Germany raise alarm over Pakistan atrocities ‘My visit continues’: French President Macron after close shave in Syria amid explosions near hotel CCTV captures terrifying moments of Wayanad landslide NEW DELHI: Fresh CCTV footage from the landslide site near Meenakshi Bridge at Kalladi in Kerala’s Wayanad district has revealed dramatic scenes of panic and destruction after a large mass of debris came crashing down onto the road.The landslide struck near the site of the proposed tunnel road project connecting Wayanad and Malappuram districts, where construction work was underway.The newly surfaced video shows a huge wave of mud and debris rushing downhill as workers and bystanders run to save themselves. A large fuel tanker truck can also be seen being swept away by the debris, while several people appear to scramble for safety moments before the area is engulfed.According to videos circulating on social media, the landslide hit suddenly and triggered widespread panic among workers and local residents near the tunnel construction site.Two dead, seven injured and several missingKerala health minister K Muraleedharan confirmed the death of two people in the incident. He informed that the rescue operation will be completed once the road is cleared.”Two deaths are confirmed. After road clearance, rescue work will be completed. We have directed all hospitals in Wayanad for the treatment of the labourers who were from outside Keralam. The primary report suggests there were no local people affected in the incident, ” said Muraleedharan.Earlier, Kerala chief minister VD Satheesan said seven people were injured and another seven remain missing.”It is an unfortunate incident. Rescue efforts are going on,” the chief minister told reporters after reviewing the situation with officials of the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA).He said police, fire and rescue personnel were already deployed at the site and additional rescue forces were being mobilised. A defence force stationed in Thrissur was also kept ready for deployment if required.Heavy rain and construction debris under scrutinyThe chief minister said there had been heavy rainfall in the area before the landslide, though he maintained that the disaster was not caused by the absence of a weather alert. Instead, he pointed to the alleged failure to remove accumulated soil and debris from the construction site despite prior instructions from authorities.”The Disaster Management Authority and the District Collector had already issued an order on June 20 to remove all the soil from the spot. The preliminary information is that the contractor of the tunnel has not obeyed the order issued by the District Collector and the Disaster Management Authority,” Satheesan said.Rescue operation continuesFire and Rescue Services personnel, police teams and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have launched a large-scale search operation to locate those still missing.Officials said several vehicles used to transport tunnel workers were damaged in the landslide. Local residents helped rescue some people from the affected area before emergency teams arrived.According to Kerala’s Public Relations Department, people rescued from the site have been shifted to Meppadi WIMS Hospital for treatment, while a relief camp has been opened at Chulikka Government LP School for affected residents.Emergency review by state governmentCM Satheesan said that the state government was closely monitoring the situation and had directed Revenue Minister A P Anil Kumar and Agriculture Minister T Siddique to reach Wayanad immediately to oversee rescue and relief operations.”I also spoke with the District Collector over the phone,” Satheesan said.Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for Wayanad, where very heavy rainfall has been reported in several areas, adding to the challenges faced by rescue teams.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 MediaVideosPM Modi’s Indonesia Visit : BrahMos, Astra Missiles, Critical Minerals And Big OutcomesUnpublished ARAI Study Flags E20 Compatibility Issues In Older VehiclesMumbai-Pune Expressway: 4 Reasons The New Corridor Failed Its First Monsoon TestRam Temple Row Escalates As Akhilesh Yadav Warns Nishikant Dubey Of FIR Over Social Media PostIndian Diplomat Protests Incorrect Map Depicting J&K As Part Of Pakistan At Dhaka SeminarOwaisi Says Amit Shah ‘Doesn’t Do Things Casually’, Claims Meeting Points to NRC RolloutRam Mandir Trust Meeting: Champat Rai’s Resignation Accepted, Donated Items Put On DisplayPM Modi Praises BJP Chief Nitin Nabin After Kejriwal’s ‘Who Are You’ Remark | WatchBaruipur Rape Horror: Mamata Leads Protest, CM Suvendu Vows to Ensure Death PenaltyRam Mandir Trust Chief Demands Strict Action As Donation Probe Intensifies Further123PhotostoriesWhy people don’t intervene during emergencies: The psychology of the bystander effect“I’m great at my job but neglect my personal life”: Why this creator’s video is striking a chord with many working women in their 30sRush over discounted Pointed Gourd (Parwal) in New Jersey: 8 traditional desi ways to enjoy it during summer season5 simple ways to make meditation a daily habitNational parks you can visit using Vande Bharat trains without taking a flight: India’s best wildlife getaways by railFrom a lush garden to vibrant interiors: Inside Anupamaa fame Rupali Ganguly’s nature-inspired Mumbai homeShould fruits be eaten before or after meals? Here’s what research actually saysHow to Identify Animal Paw Prints While TrekkingSonam to Janhvi: The Kapoor sisters turned Anshula Kapoor’s wedding into a fashion runwayHow to maintain Angelfish in an aquarium: A step-by-step beginner’s guide123Hot PicksArgentina vs EgyptPM Modi Indonesia VisitWayanad LandslideMumbai rain deathMumbai school holidayKimi AntonelliErling HaalandMumbai schools holidayMumbai-Pune expresswayTop TrendingIran-US WarMumbai FloodsBengal Rape CaseFIFA World Cup 2026CBSE Class 10 ResultRam temple donationMumbai rainStock Market TodayMumbai Rain DeathKCET mock seat allotment Bintang Adipurna: What students should know about Indonesia’s highest civilian honour awarded to PM Narendra Modi ‘Welcome to the Jungle’ box office collection Day 12 [LIVE]: Akshay Kumar starrer chases Rs 120 crore on second Tuesday How Birds Predict Weather: How birds know when a storm is coming: 6 Fascinating ways nature gives them an early warning Can someone’s curse affect your future? here’s what people believe FIFA World Cup: Blow for England before Norway clash as Jordan Henderson ruled out after freak celebration injury Prabowo said that because PM Modi’s programmes worked, he quipped that he was “very happy” there was “no copyright” on them. NEW DELHI: The banquet burst into applause and praise as a light-hearted remark by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto stole the spotlight. Addressing the gathering, the Indonesian President praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in a light-hearted joke about “copying” many of PM Modi’s programmes.Prabowo said that because PM Modi’s programmes worked, he was “very happy” there was “no copyright” on them. The laughter-filled moment came as the two countries unveiled a series of agreements to deepen cooperation across defence, technology, education and agriculture.Speaking directly to PM Modi before an audience of ministers, officials and dignitaries, President Prabowo mixed humour with an unmistakable message of admiration for India’s development journey.”I follow your career, and I copied many of your programmes. I don’t mind admitting, because if it succeeds for hundreds of million people with the same background as Indonesia, the same problems, we are making the same, we have the same problems of big population, we have agriculture in the background, we face many natural disasters, and yet India has achieved much progress. So I openly admit that I follow your career and I copied a lot of your programmes,” he said.The candid admission drew smiles and laughter across the banquet hall. Pausing for effect, Prabowo added, “And it’s proving to be successful for us. So, thank you very much. I’m very happy there’s no copyright to all your programmes.”He revealed that an Indonesian delegation had only just returned after spending weeks in India studying techniques to transform dry land into productive farmland.”In fact, I think yesterday, a team from Indonesia just came back from, I think two or three weeks of study of the achievements many Indian groups have achieved in making arid land arable again. It’s called permaculture. So we are studying this closely, and we have a lot to learn, and we are not afraid of learning,” he said.The warm exchange came on a day of significant announcements for India-Indonesia ties. The two leaders unveiled a Memorandum of Understanding on BrahMos-Astra missiles and announced plans to open Indian Institute of Technology and Indian Institute of Management campuses in Indonesia.”We have signed an agreement to deepen collaboration in tech, AI, and startup businesses,” PM Modi said during a joint press briefing, adding, “We will be opening a campus of Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore (IIM-B) in Indonesia.”The two countries also signed agreements covering space, critical minerals, disaster management, agriculture and maritime cooperation, while agreeing to work towards linking their cross-border QR payment systems. They will also collaborate on preserving the UNESCO-listed Prambanan Temple Complex.During the visit, President Prabowo conferred Indonesia’s highest civilian honour, the Bintang Adipurna, on PM Modi.Accepting the award, PM Modi said, “The respect shown through this medal is for every Indian, and I would like to thank Indonesia on their behalf.”PM Modi is on a three-day visit to Indonesia as part of a broader three-nation tour. The visit is his first bilateral trip to the country since India and Indonesia elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2018.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 MediaVideosPM Modi’s Indonesia Visit : BrahMos, Astra Missiles, Critical Minerals And Big OutcomesUnpublished ARAI Study Flags E20 Compatibility Issues In Older VehiclesMumbai-Pune Expressway: 4 Reasons The New Corridor Failed Its First Monsoon TestRam Temple Row Escalates As Akhilesh Yadav Warns Nishikant Dubey Of FIR Over Social Media PostIndian Diplomat Protests Incorrect Map Depicting J&K As Part Of Pakistan At Dhaka SeminarOwaisi Says Amit Shah ‘Doesn’t Do Things Casually’, Claims Meeting Points to NRC RolloutRam Mandir Trust Meeting: Champat Rai’s Resignation Accepted, Donated Items Put On DisplayPM Modi Praises BJP Chief Nitin Nabin After Kejriwal’s ‘Who Are You’ Remark | WatchBaruipur Rape Horror: Mamata Leads Protest, CM Suvendu Vows to Ensure Death PenaltyRam Mandir Trust Chief Demands Strict Action As Donation Probe Intensifies Further123PhotostoriesWhy people don’t intervene during emergencies: The psychology of the bystander effect“I’m great at my job but neglect my personal life”: Why this creator’s video is striking a chord with many working women in their 30sRush over discounted Pointed Gourd (Parwal) in New Jersey: 8 traditional desi ways to enjoy it during summer season5 simple ways to make meditation a daily habitNational parks you can visit using Vande Bharat trains without taking a flight: India’s best wildlife getaways by railFrom a lush garden to vibrant interiors: Inside Anupamaa fame Rupali Ganguly’s nature-inspired Mumbai homeShould fruits be eaten before or after meals? Here’s what research actually saysHow to Identify Animal Paw Prints While TrekkingSonam to Janhvi: The Kapoor sisters turned Anshula Kapoor’s wedding into a fashion runwayHow to maintain Angelfish in an aquarium: A step-by-step beginner’s guide123Hot PicksArgentina vs EgyptPM Modi Indonesia VisitWayanad LandslideMumbai rain deathMumbai school holidayKimi AntonelliErling HaalandMumbai schools holidayMumbai-Pune expresswayTop TrendingIran-US WarMumbai FloodsBengal Rape CaseFIFA World Cup 2026CBSE Class 10 ResultRam temple donationMumbai rainStock Market TodayMumbai Rain DeathKCET mock seat allotment ‘I had sleepless nights’: Kajal Aggarwal reveals being shaken by food adulteration truths while shooting for ‘The India Story’ India’s best wildlife getaways by rail Flights, hotels, visa in one go: 10 things to know about Saudi’s Package Visa Photo credit: IANS NEW DELHI: Put on the back foot by a Supreme Court intervention, NCERT on Tuesday has released the revised Part 2 of its Class 8 Social Science textbook with the controversial chapter on judiciary stripped of its earlier critical framing and recast as a more conventional civics lesson on justice, constitutional remedies, courts, tribunals and dispute resolution.The biggest shift is in Chapter 4, The Role of the Judiciary in Our Society. The revised version drops the earlier section on “corruption in judiciary” and the discussion on judicial backlog as a key challenge. Instead, it now opens with broader questions: “What is the concept of justice?” , “Why is it important for a just and harmonious society?” , “What is the structure and role of the judiciary in India?” and “What are the alternative modes of dispute resolution?”The earlier version had said the judicial system faced “corruption” and “massive backlog”, and referred to complaints received through CPGRAMS. It stated that the judiciary had an “established procedure for receiving complaints” and that over 1,600 such complaints were received between 2017 and 2021. The passage that drew the sharpest objection said “people do experience corruption at various levels of the judiciary,” adding that efforts were being made to increase transparency and act against corruption.The controversy erupted soon after the book was released in February. The Supreme Court took suo motu cognisance, ordered withdrawal of physical and digital copies, and later said the chapter gave an impression that the judiciary had acknowledged institutional corruption while leaving out its role in protecting constitutional rights and access to justice. NCERT apologised, called the inclusion an “error of judgement” and said the chapter would be rewritten.The revised chapter now leans heavily on constitutional structure. It says the judiciary is “one of the three pillars of the government” and is “independent from the legislature and the executive”. It adds that the judiciary ensures that laws passed by legislatures remain within the “framework of the Constitution” and that the executive does not “overstep its role”. The tone has clearly shifted from scrutiny of institutional shortcomings to institutional explanation.There are substantial additions. A new section on writ jurisdiction explains Articles 32 and 226 and calls the right to constitutional remedies a “right under the Constitution to file a writ petition” before the Supreme Court or high courts. The chapter adds a detailed segment on PILs, describing PIL as “an innovation introduced by the Supreme Court” to address issues of public concern, with examples including the Hussainara Khatoon undertrial prisoners case, M C Mehta’s environmental litigation and the Vishaka guidelines on workplace sexual harassment.The chapter also expands the Supreme Court’s original, appellate, advisory and special leave jurisdictions, and includes references to Articles 141 and 142. It lists 25 high courts, explains subordinate courts, and introduces tribunals such as NCLT, consumer fora, NGT, CAT, APTEL and the Armed Forces Tribunal. A new section on digital technology mentions e-filing, hybrid hearings, live streaming, translation of judgments and the National Judicial Data Grid.Another major addition is alternative dispute resolution. Arbitration, mediation, Lok Adalats and Gram Nyayalayas are explained as ways to reduce the burden on courts. The chapter also notes the replacement of IPC, CrPC and Evidence Act by Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam.The fallout went beyond textual changes. The Supreme Court had directed that the three academics associated with the chapter — Michel Danino, Suparna Diwakar and Alok Prasanna Kumar — be disassociated from public-funded curriculum work, though it later lifted the life ban after accepting their explanation. The Centre has said they will not be associated with NCERT work in future.The revised chapter closes by reinforcing the institutional role of courts rather than dwelling on their failings. Its recap says “the judiciary is one of the three pillars of the government” and that its key role is to ensure that justice is served and laws remain within the constitutional framework. It also underlines that the Constitution prescribes separation of powers among the legislature, executive and judiciary, and that the judiciary remains independent of the other organs of government. The end-of-chapter activities, too, now steer students towards civic engagement with courts — writing model letters to the High Court or Supreme Court on social issues, staging a moot court, studying local judicial personalities and interacting with someone associated with the justice system. In effect, the rewritten chapter shifts the classroom focus from corruption and delay in courts to constitutional remedies, access to justice, PILs, digital initiatives, tribunals and alternative dispute resolution.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorManash Pratim GohainManash Pratim Gohain is a seasoned journalist with over two decades at The Times of India, where he has built a rich body of work spanning education policy, politics, and governance. Renowned for his incisive coverage of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, accreditation reforms, and skilling initiatives, he has also reported on student politics, urban policy, and social movements. His political reportage—both reflective and news-driven—adds depth to his writing, bridging policy with public impact. Through his 2,500 articles and related outlets, he has emerged as a trusted voice in national discourse, particularly in linking education reform to broader societal change.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi’s Indonesia Visit : BrahMos, Astra Missiles, Critical Minerals And Big OutcomesUnpublished ARAI Study Flags E20 Compatibility Issues In Older VehiclesMumbai-Pune Expressway: 4 Reasons The New Corridor Failed Its First Monsoon TestRam Temple Row Escalates As Akhilesh Yadav Warns Nishikant Dubey Of FIR Over Social Media PostIndian Diplomat Protests Incorrect Map Depicting J&K As Part Of Pakistan At Dhaka SeminarOwaisi Says Amit Shah ‘Doesn’t Do Things Casually’, Claims Meeting Points to NRC RolloutRam Mandir Trust Meeting: Champat Rai’s Resignation Accepted, Donated Items Put On DisplayPM Modi Praises BJP Chief Nitin Nabin After Kejriwal’s ‘Who Are You’ Remark | WatchBaruipur Rape Horror: Mamata Leads Protest, CM Suvendu Vows to Ensure Death PenaltyRam Mandir Trust Chief Demands Strict Action As Donation Probe Intensifies Further123PhotostoriesRush over discounted Pointed Gourd (Parwal) in New Jersey: 8 traditional desi ways to enjoy it during summer season5 simple ways to make meditation a daily habitNational parks you can visit using Vande Bharat trains without taking a flight: India’s best wildlife getaways by railFrom a lush garden to vibrant interiors: Inside Anupamaa fame Rupali Ganguly’s nature-inspired Mumbai homeShould fruits be eaten before or after meals? Here’s what research actually saysHow to Identify Animal Paw Prints While TrekkingSonam to Janhvi: The Kapoor sisters turned Anshula Kapoor’s wedding into a fashion runwayHow to maintain Angelfish in an aquarium: A step-by-step beginner’s guideDrinking tea hotter than 65°C may increase the risk of esophageal cancerPM Modi to visit Prambanan Temple Complex in Indonesia: 5 fascinating facts about the historic UNESCO site123Hot PicksArgentina vs EgyptPM Modi Indonesia VisitWayanad LandslideMumbai rain deathMumbai school holidayKimi AntonelliErling HaalandMumbai schools holidayMumbai-Pune expresswayTop TrendingIran-US WarMumbai FloodsBengal Rape CaseFIFA World Cup 2026CBSE Class 10 ResultRam temple donationMumbai rainStock Market TodayMumbai Rain DeathKCET mock seat allotment NBEMS declares FMGE June 2026 result at natboard.edu.in; scorecards from July 16 Hema Malini says Dharmendra’s last message to her was to keep the family united, says Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol are wonderful boys When your child says “I can’t do it,” avoid saying “You can”; Psychologist explains what to say instead | The Tower Tarot Card: Why Your Plans Face Sudden Delays Today OFFSIDE: Spain hand Cristiano Ronaldo a reality check as Belgium cancel USA’s trump card Representative image The ministry of home affairs (MHA) has warned citizens against a surge in online investment scams, saying cybercriminals are increasingly using messaging platforms such as WhatsApp and Telegram to lure victims with promises of quick, high and guaranteed returns.The advisory, issued by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), urges investors to stay vigilant and verify every investment opportunity before parting with money.Fake WhatsApp and Telegram investment groupsAccording to the advisory, fraudsters create fake investment groups on WhatsApp and Telegram, posing as stock market experts or representatives of reputed financial firms.They attract users by sharing so-called “VIP stock tips”, fabricated success stories and claims of exclusive investment opportunities designed to create a false sense of credibility.Fake trading apps distributed through private linksThe MHA has cautioned users against downloading trading applications through private links shared in chats or social media messages.Cybercriminals persuade victims to install these fake apps instead of downloading them from official app stores, exposing users to financial fraud as well as data theft.Guaranteed returns and VIP stock tipsOfficials have identified promises of “guaranteed returns” and exclusive stock recommendations as major warning signs.The advisory stresses that no legitimate investment or stock market platform can guarantee profits, and such claims should immediately raise suspicion.Fake profits to gain trustInvestigators said fraudsters typically display fabricated profits on fraudulent trading platforms after victims make their initial investments.These fake earnings are used to convince investors to deposit increasingly larger amounts, making the scam appear genuine.Withdrawal blocked unless more money is paidOne of the most common tactics flagged by the ministry involves blocking withdrawals when victims try to access their money.Fraudsters then demand additional payments, claiming they are needed for taxes, processing fees or account verification.The MHA has emphasised that genuine stockbrokers or financial institutions never ask customers to deposit more money in order to withdraw existing funds.Mumbai retired scientist caseThe I4C highlighted the case of a retired scientist from Mumbai who was added to an unknown WhatsApp investment group.According to news agency ANI, he was persuaded to download a fake trading app through a private link and invest increasing sums after being shown fabricated profits.When he attempted to withdraw his earnings, access to his account was blocked and he was unable to recover his money.The ministry has urged people not to trust investment advice from unknown WhatsApp or Telegram groups, avoid downloading trading apps through unofficial links and independently verify brokers and trading platforms before investing.Authorities indicated that raising public awareness is one of the most effective defences against financial crimes facilitated by cyber means. They urged individuals to remain vigilant, independently confirm investment opportunities, and share such warnings with family and friends to help prevent others from becoming victims of online scams.Victims of cyber fraud have been advised to immediately report incidents by calling the National Cyber Crime Helpline on 1930 or filing complaints through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal to improve the chances of fund recovery.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 MediaVideosPM Modi’s Indonesia Visit : BrahMos, Astra Missiles, Critical Minerals And Big OutcomesUnpublished ARAI Study Flags E20 Compatibility Issues In Older VehiclesMumbai-Pune Expressway: 4 Reasons The New Corridor Failed Its First Monsoon TestRam Temple Row Escalates As Akhilesh Yadav Warns Nishikant Dubey Of FIR Over Social Media PostIndian Diplomat Protests Incorrect Map Depicting J&K As Part Of Pakistan At Dhaka SeminarOwaisi Says Amit Shah ‘Doesn’t Do Things Casually’, Claims Meeting Points to NRC RolloutRam Mandir Trust Meeting: Champat Rai’s Resignation Accepted, Donated Items Put On DisplayPM Modi Praises BJP Chief Nitin Nabin After Kejriwal’s ‘Who Are You’ Remark | WatchBaruipur Rape Horror: Mamata Leads Protest, CM Suvendu Vows to Ensure Death PenaltyRam Mandir Trust Chief Demands Strict Action As Donation Probe Intensifies Further123Photostories5 simple ways to make meditation a daily habitNational parks you can visit using Vande Bharat trains without taking a flight: India’s best wildlife getaways by railFrom a lush garden to vibrant interiors: Inside Anupamaa fame Rupali Ganguly’s nature-inspired Mumbai homeShould fruits be eaten before or after meals? 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