VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html How China’s ‘finless’ submarine could upend global naval power dynamics Ahmed Al-Ahmed: Bondi attack hero Ahmed al-Ahmed charged with assaulting father: Report MMA legend Conor McGregor’s Las Vegas mansion is a millions-worth property defined by world-class luxury, private elevator and Strip views One vehicle, two fuels: India bets big on flex-fuel revolution – what is it? ‘Cocaine-fuelled’ Brit jailed for life over murder of Saudi student Mohammed Algasim in Cambridge US stocks today: Wall Street opens mixed as AI stocks fall and oil prices ease ‘Been pulled out of the jaws of death’: Late Pahlaj Nihalani once revealed how a single meal landed him in hospital for 28 days Malcolm X Quote: Quote of the day for kids by Malcolm X: “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to…” Sudarshan Chakra: India’s ‘kill-web’ to counter growing nuclear arsenals of China, Pakistan Rise of Ritabrata Banerjee: How ex-Left leader engineered Bengal’s biggest political coup | India News Shania Twain biopic in the works as Leah McKendrick to write and direct life story on country pop icon: ‘Let’s go, girls’ Personality test: The colour you choose reveals if you’re grounded, emotionally distant, a dreamer, a rebel, controlling, sensitive, passionate or chilled out | Annamalai to disclose his future course of action during a social media interaction at Friday noon NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagenthran on Thursday sought to end speculation over K Annamalai’s political future, insisting that the former state chief has neither resigned from the party nor spoken to anyone about launching a new political outfit.According to news agency PTI, Nagenthran said reports claiming Annamalai had quit the BJP were “baseless rumours” and maintained there was no difference of opinion between the two leaders.”As BJP president, I have not received any resignation letter from him. There is no difference of opinion between us. Annamalai has not spoken to anyone about starting a new party. We have not spoken to him about it, and he has not spoken to us,” Nagenthran said.Wishing Annamalai on his birthday, he added: “Reports claiming he has resigned are false, lack substance and are mere rumours.”The clarification comes amid intense speculation over Annamalai’s future after he met Union home minister Amit Shah in New Delhi. The BJP has not officially disclosed details of the meeting, fuelling further questions about the former IPS officer’s next political move.The rumours follow months of reported differences between Annamalai and sections of the BJP leadership over the party’s strategy in Tamil Nadu.Sources have indicated that Annamalai was unhappy with the BJP’s decision to revive its alliance with the AIADMK ahead of the assembly elections. He is understood to have favoured building the BJP as an independent political force in the state rather than relying on alliances, while the central leadership prioritised a broader anti-DMK coalition.Sources close to Annamalai have claimed he believes a large section of young professionals, first-time political aspirants and voters dissatisfied with existing parties remain politically unrepresented. They say he is confident that a new platform could attract support from across party lines.According to these sources, preliminary work has already begun to either register a new political party or acquire an existing registered party structure. A social organisation is also said to be under consideration as a possible precursor to a political launch.The speculation intensified further after Annamalai recently voiced concerns over the Centre’s implementation of the three-language formula for CBSE Class IX students, saying the move had triggered anxieties among parents and students in Tamil Nadu. The remarks were seen by some observers as a rare instance of the former state BJP chief publicly distancing himself from a position associated with the Union government.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 MediaVideosAfter TCS Nashik Case, Ex-Wipro Pune Employee Alleges Religious Conversion, Forced ResignationNo Woman In Karnataka Cabinet: Margaret Alva ‘Deeply Disappointed’ Over DK Shivakumar Oath CeremonyPune IT Firm Abruptly Closes Operations, Over 700 Employees And Interns Left JoblessCongress Tells Cadre To Ignore CJP, Stay Focused On NEET-CBSE AgitationWhy IRCTC Is Verifying 6 Crore Users And Deploying AI Cameras In 800 KitchensBeyond Roads And Troops: Why India Is Building A Model Village Near The LACBJP Alleges TMC MLA Linked To Land Grab, Compensation Fraud And Illegal Construction; Seeks ED ProbeBihar Hospital Fire Claims Four Lives; CM Announces Rs 4 Lakh AidViral Marriage Proposal By Army Captain Draws Scrutiny Over Military ProtocolPermission Pending As CJP Mobilises Supporters For June 6 Jantar Mantar Protest123PhotostoriesMMA legend Conor McGregor’s Las Vegas mansion is a millions-worth property defined by world-class luxury, private elevator and Strip viewsThe 5 numbers cardiologists want every adult to know before it’s too lateChild behavior expert says these 5 common phrases parents say to their children can hurt them psychologically8 words that women hate from the core of their heart: Which one can YOU not standGetting married soon? 10 common questions women should ask themselves before tying the knotMillions of women live with period pain, PMOS and UTIs: But experts say that doesn’t make them normalFrom Spiti to Antarctica: World’s most unusual post offices every traveller should visitToo much screen time? Here are 8 things parents can do to set healthy boundaries for kidsAamir Ali’s luxurious Mumbai house: A massive living room, art collection, walk-in wardrobe and moreThe most powerful Devi Mantras to enhance your inner power and strength123Hot PicksDelhi Restaurant FireLauren FryerAbhishek BanerjeeLos Angeles Airport DetentionAuston MatthewsSean StricklandKylian MbappeNuclear Scientist DeathNHL Trade RumorsTop TrendingDelhi Malviya Nagar Restaurant FireBengaluru MurderK AnnamalaiAnnapurna BhandarFirhad HakimDK ShivakumarKerala MonsoonAbhishek BanerjeeMamata BanerjeeKoyambedu Baw Brawl Jun 04, 2026, 19:52 IST HPBOSE to conduct Special Educator TET exams on June 7: Check complete details here Jackky Bhagnani was body-shamed and called Yokozuna while growing up, his father Vashu Bhagnani refused to launch him as he was overweight ‘Chose to face death together’: African couple undergoing IVF treatment found dead in each other’s arms in Delhi hotel fire Former US ambassador calls Indians corrupt, says America typically does not have fraud ANI file photo NEW DELHI: India has, for the first time, surpassed the US to become the world’s second-largest market for annual solar capacity additions, the ministry of new and renewable energy said on Wednesday.Quoting the latest International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) report, the ministry said India added more than 37 GW of solar capacity in calendar year 2025, compared with 34 GW in the US. China continued to lead the world, adding nearly 315 GW of solar capacity in a single year.Pralhad Joshi, minister of new and renewable energy, said India was driving record capacity additions through “strong policy support, innovation and world-class infrastructure”.“India’s clean energy transition is accelerating, strengthening energy security, advancing sustainable development and reinforcing India’s position as a global leader in renewable energy,” Joshi said.According to the report, India’s installed solar capacity increased from 98.5 GW in 2024 to 135.5 GW in 2025. In comparison, the US expanded its solar capacity from 177.6 GW to 211.6 GW during the same period.Globally, solar power capacity grew by 512 GW over the year, rising from 1,880 GW in 2024 to 2,392 GW in 2025.The ministry also said India surpassed Japan to become the world’s third-largest solar power producer in 2025. The country generated 108,494 GWh of solar power during the year, compared with 96,459 GWh generated by Japan.Highlighting the pace of growth, the ministry said India achieved the milestone with unprecedented speed and scale. “From 2.7 GW in 2014, it took 96 months to reach the 50 GW mark in 2022. Capacity increased from 50 GW to 100 GW in 36 months (2022-2025) and from 100 GW to 150 GW in just 14 months (Jan 2025-March 2026),” an official said.In FY26, India recorded its highest-ever annual solar capacity addition of 44.6 GW, compared with 23.8 GW in FY25.Subrahmanyam Pulipaka, chief executive officer of the National Solar Energy Federation of India, said India’s rise from a nascent solar market to a global clean energy powerhouse demonstrated the strength of long-term policy vision, regulatory certainty and sustained industry participation.“India stands as a global example for both developed and developing economies, proving that rapid industrial growth and renewable energy expansion can progress together, with clean energy increasingly becoming the foundation of next-generation industrialisation and economic competitiveness,” he said.About the AuthorAtul MathurAtul Mathur is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India with over 27 years of experience in journalism. Based in Delhi, he has spent much of his career reporting on governance, public policy and politics, churning out researched, data-driven stories that impact daily lives. Atul is known for investigative depth and strong human-interest narratives as he strives to bring clarity and context to complex issues. He currently tracks the energy sector, writing on power, renewable energy, coal and mines.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAfter TCS Nashik Case, Ex-Wipro Pune Employee Alleges Religious Conversion, Forced ResignationNo Woman In Karnataka Cabinet: Margaret Alva ‘Deeply Disappointed’ Over DK Shivakumar Oath CeremonyPune IT Firm Abruptly Closes Operations, Over 700 Employees And Interns Left JoblessCongress Tells Cadre To Ignore CJP, Stay Focused On NEET-CBSE AgitationWhy IRCTC Is Verifying 6 Crore Users And Deploying AI Cameras In 800 KitchensBeyond Roads And Troops: Why India Is Building A Model Village Near The LACBJP Alleges TMC MLA Linked To Land Grab, Compensation Fraud And Illegal Construction; Seeks ED ProbeBihar Hospital Fire Claims Four Lives; CM Announces Rs 4 Lakh AidViral Marriage Proposal By Army Captain Draws Scrutiny Over Military ProtocolPermission Pending As CJP Mobilises Supporters For June 6 Jantar Mantar Protest123Photostories8 words that women hate from the core of their heart: Which one can YOU not standGetting married soon? 10 common questions women should ask themselves before tying the knotMillions of women live with period pain, PMOS and UTIs: But experts say that doesn’t make them normalFrom Spiti to Antarctica: World’s most unusual post offices every traveller should visitToo much screen time? Here are 8 things parents can do to set healthy boundaries for kidsAamir Ali’s luxurious Mumbai house: A massive living room, art collection, walk-in wardrobe and moreThe most powerful Devi Mantras to enhance your inner power and strengthIs your child ready for pre-school? These 8 signs can help you decideWhich Hindu holy book should you read during difficult times?When is a headache more than just a headache? Doctor explains the brain tumor warning signs people often ignore123Hot PicksDelhi Restaurant FireLauren FryerAbhishek BanerjeeLos Angeles Airport DetentionAuston MatthewsAnnapurna Bhandar schemeKylian MbappeNuclear Scientist DeathNHL Trade RumorsTop TrendingDelhi Malviya Nagar Restaurant FireBengaluru MurderK AnnamalaiAnnapurna BhandarFirhad HakimDK ShivakumarKerala MonsoonAbhishek BanerjeeMamata BanerjeeKoyambedu Baw Brawl LPG supply stable, but oil firms still losing nearly Rs 700 on every cylinder sold ‘Ram Charan is s*xually lusting over her all the time’: Fans express disgust over objectification of Janhvi Kapoor in ‘Peddi’ Several Lufthansa staff injured after plane’s nose gear collapses at Germany’s Frankfurt airport – video Indian man killed in Sharjah after alleged TikTok dispute turns into fatal attack | World News NEW DELHI: The first graduating batch of the BTech programme in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at the Mehta Family School of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, IIT-Roorkee, has recorded 100% placements among students who participated in the campus recruitment process.Students from the inaugural batch secured offers across technology, finance, analytics and research-oriented sectors, with recruiters including Amazon, Microsoft, Goldman Sachs, Qualcomm, Salesforce, Samsung Research, Databricks, Barclays, Visa and Warner Bros. Discovery.The programme was launched in 2021 through a partnership between IIT-Roorkee and the Mehta Family Foundation.IIT-Roorkee director K K Pant said the programme was designed to build AI capabilities at the undergraduate level and prepare students for the development and deployment of AI-based solutions. “With this programme, IIT-Roorkee has sought to move beyond traditional engineering pathways and create a pipeline of talent that is equipped to design, build, and deploy AI systems in real-world contexts,” he said.The institute said the curriculum combines training in mathematics, computing, machine learning and responsible AI with application-oriented learning across disciplines.Rahul Mehta, founder of the Mehta Family Foundation, said the placement outcome reflected the programme’s academic design and industry relevance. “Seeing every single student from this inaugural cohort placed at top companies in India and around the world is a testament to the world-class program built at IIT Roorkee,” he said.The institute also reported strong internship outcomes for current undergraduate students, with opportunities at organisations including Google, Microsoft, Adobe, Goldman Sachs, Salesforce, Mastercard, Samsung, Databricks and Expedia. According to IIT Roorkee, several of these internships resulted in pre-placement offers.The institute added that its postgraduate programmes in data science and artificial intelligence also recorded favourable placement outcomes, indicating growing industry demand for graduates trained in AI and related technologies.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 MediaVideosAfter TCS Nashik Case, Ex-Wipro Pune Employee Alleges Religious Conversion, Forced ResignationNo Woman In Karnataka Cabinet: Margaret Alva ‘Deeply Disappointed’ Over DK Shivakumar Oath CeremonyPune IT Firm Abruptly Closes Operations, Over 700 Employees And Interns Left JoblessCongress Tells Cadre To Ignore CJP, Stay Focused On NEET-CBSE AgitationWhy IRCTC Is Verifying 6 Crore Users And Deploying AI Cameras In 800 KitchensBeyond Roads And Troops: Why India Is Building A Model Village Near The LACBJP Alleges TMC MLA Linked To Land Grab, Compensation Fraud And Illegal Construction; Seeks ED ProbeBihar Hospital Fire Claims Four Lives; CM Announces Rs 4 Lakh AidViral Marriage Proposal By Army Captain Draws Scrutiny Over Military ProtocolPermission Pending As CJP Mobilises Supporters For June 6 Jantar Mantar Protest123PhotostoriesThe 5 numbers cardiologists want every adult to know before it’s too lateChild behavior expert says these 5 common phrases parents say to their children can hurt them psychologically8 words that women hate from the core of their heart: Which one can YOU not standGetting married soon? 10 common questions women should ask themselves before tying the knotMillions of women live with period pain, PMOS and UTIs: But experts say that doesn’t make them normalFrom Spiti to Antarctica: World’s most unusual post offices every traveller should visitToo much screen time? Here are 8 things parents can do to set healthy boundaries for kidsAamir Ali’s luxurious Mumbai house: A massive living room, art collection, walk-in wardrobe and moreThe most powerful Devi Mantras to enhance your inner power and strengthIs your child ready for pre-school? These 8 signs can help you decide123Hot PicksDelhi Restaurant FireLauren FryerAbhishek BanerjeeLos Angeles Airport DetentionAuston MatthewsSean StricklandKylian MbappeNuclear Scientist DeathNHL Trade RumorsTop TrendingDelhi Malviya Nagar Restaurant FireBengaluru MurderK AnnamalaiAnnapurna BhandarFirhad HakimDK ShivakumarKerala MonsoonAbhishek BanerjeeMamata BanerjeeKoyambedu Baw Brawl Who is Istanboss? Meet Stanley Agu, Nigerian influencer debuting in ‘Bandar’ who said ‘Bobby Deol has a goon vibe’ ‘Situation today pains me’: Humayun Kabir offers Mamata Banerjee route back to Bengal assembly On the occasion of International MPS Awareness Day 2026, Harivansh, Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha, launched the book “SHAURYA: A Father’s Promise” at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, during a special event dedicated to raising awareness about Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) and rare diseases. Written by Saurabh Singh, Co-founder of the Rare Diseases India Foundation (RDIF), SHAURYA: A Father’s Promise tells the story of his son Shaurya, but echoes the pain, courage, and hope of millions of rare disease families around the world. Through Shaurya’s courageous battle with MPS II (Hunter Syndrome), the book gives voice to families who refuse to give up despite immense challenges and calls upon society to ensure that no child is forgotten simply because their disease is rare. At its heart is a father’s promise to transform his son’s courage into a lifelong mission for awareness, timely diagnosis, access to treatment, dignity, and hope for every child living with a rare disease. Though Shaurya left this world in 2025 at the age of 13, his courage lives on as a beacon of hope, inspiring a movement to ensure that no child with a rare disease is left behind. Beyond a personal story, the book sensitizes policymakers, decision-makers, healthcare stakeholders, and society at large to the urgent need for a comprehensive and effective National Rare Disease Policy that addresses the needs of all rare disease patients. It highlights the challenges faced by families in accessing timely diagnosis, treatment, and support, while advocating for equitable healthcare, stronger policy interventions, and a more compassionate ecosystem for rare disease communities. Speaking on the occasion, Harivansh, Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha, acknowledged the extraordinary dedication of Saurabh Singh, Co-Founder of the Rare Diseases India Foundation (RDIF), who left a promising career in a multinational company to devote his life to the cause of rare disease patients and their families across India. He remarked that Saurabh transformed his personal struggle into a national mission, turning pain into purpose and becoming a powerful voice for thousands affected by rare diseases. Appreciating the impactful work of RDIF, Harivansh noted that Saurabh Singh’s commitment, compassion, and perseverance have helped bring the concerns of the rare disease community to the forefront of public awareness and policymaking. He emphasized that the voices of MPS and other rare disease patients must be heard at the highest levels of governance and that collective efforts are needed to ensure dignity, care, and hope for every affected family. The event was organized by the Rare Diseases India Foundation (RDIF) in association with Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, bringing together leading voices from the medical, scientific, and rare disease communities, including Dr. Ratna Dua Puri of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Dr. Madhulika Kabra of ICMR, Dr. Neerja Gupta of AIIMS New Delhi, Dr. Sunita Bijarnia, Dr. Veronica Arora, and Dr. Swasti Pal, who shared valuable insights on the challenges, advancements, and future priorities in the field of rare diseases. The occasion was also graced by the leadership of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, including Dr. D. S. Rana, Chairman, Sir Ganga Ram Trust Society and Sir Ganga Ram Hospital; Dr. Ajay Swaroop, Chairman, Board of Management; Dr. Jaya Sood, Vice Chairperson, Board of Management; and Dr. A. K. Bhalla, Honorary Secretary and Director, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. They were joined by eminent clinicians, researchers, patient advocates, policymakers, and rare disease families, reaffirming a collective commitment to improving the lives of those affected by rare diseases.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAfter TCS Nashik Case, Ex-Wipro Pune Employee Alleges Religious Conversion, Forced ResignationNo Woman In Karnataka Cabinet: Margaret Alva ‘Deeply Disappointed’ Over DK Shivakumar Oath CeremonyPune IT Firm Abruptly Closes Operations, Over 700 Employees And Interns Left JoblessCongress Tells Cadre To Ignore CJP, Stay Focused On NEET-CBSE AgitationWhy IRCTC Is Verifying 6 Crore Users And Deploying AI Cameras In 800 KitchensBeyond Roads And Troops: Why India Is Building A Model Village Near The LACBJP Alleges TMC MLA Linked To Land Grab, Compensation Fraud And Illegal Construction; Seeks ED ProbeBihar Hospital Fire Claims Four Lives; CM Announces Rs 4 Lakh AidViral Marriage Proposal By Army Captain Draws Scrutiny Over Military ProtocolPermission Pending As CJP Mobilises Supporters For June 6 Jantar Mantar Protest123Photostories8 words that women hate from the core of their heart: Which one can YOU not standGetting married soon? 10 common questions women should ask themselves before tying the knotMillions of women live with period pain, PMOS and UTIs: But experts say that doesn’t make them normalFrom Spiti to Antarctica: World’s most unusual post offices every traveller should visitToo much screen time? Here are 8 things parents can do to set healthy boundaries for kidsAamir Ali’s luxurious Mumbai house: A massive living room, art collection, walk-in wardrobe and moreThe most powerful Devi Mantras to enhance your inner power and strengthIs your child ready for pre-school? These 8 signs can help you decideWhich Hindu holy book should you read during difficult times?When is a headache more than just a headache? Doctor explains the brain tumor warning signs people often ignore123Hot PicksDelhi Restaurant FireLauren FryerAbhishek BanerjeeLos Angeles Airport DetentionAuston MatthewsSean StricklandKylian MbappeNuclear Scientist DeathNHL Trade RumorsTop TrendingDelhi Malviya Nagar Restaurant FireBengaluru MurderK AnnamalaiAnnapurna BhandarFirhad HakimDK ShivakumarKerala MonsoonAbhishek BanerjeeMamata BanerjeeKoyambedu Baw Brawl Jun 04, 2026, 18:52 IST ‘It is tough’: Kuldeep Yadav explains challenges of switching from IPL to red-ball cricket ‘Persepolis’ author and director Marjane Satrapi passes away at 56 in Paris; President Emmanuel Macron mourns the loss of icon Too much screen time? Here are 8 things parents can do to set healthy boundaries for kids Duet or duel? New CM-deputy pair revives Karnataka power tussle fears Evening news wrap IRGC commander says Israel’s elimination is “achievable,” backs Hezbollah amid rising regional tensions.TMC rebels intensify internal feud, allege suppression and question Abhishek Banerjee’s role.China blocks Tiananmen remembrance, tightens control over 1989 crackdown commemoration.Storms disrupt Delhi flights, multiple diversions as IMD issues yellow alert.BJP hits Kerala Congress over “Islam-friendly gym” row, alleges appeasement politics.Here are the top stories of the day:IRGC commander says Israel’s elimination ‘achievable’A commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force chief Esmail Qaani, said that eliminating Israel from the region is an “achievable goal” and claimed Hezbollah would soon see results of its “courageous resistance.” He said Lebanon’s key demand is Israeli withdrawal to pre-war positions and called support for Hezbollah a “duty of all Muslims.” Follow live updatesTMC rebels accuse Abhishek Banerjee of stifling dissent after post-poll defeatExpelled Trinamool Congress MLA Sandipan Saha alleged that dissent within the party was suppressed after its electoral defeat, claiming legislators were instructed not to criticise national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee and instead applaud his leadership. The rebel camp said the breaking point came during internal meetings where questioning the leadership was discouraged. Read full storyChina tightens restrictions on Tiananmen Square remembrance on 37th anniversaryChinese authorities have further restricted public remembrance of the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown, blocking families of victims from visiting graves on its 37th anniversary. Relatives linked to the Tiananmen Mothers said police denied access to a Beijing cemetery, continuing a long-standing pattern of tight surveillance around memorial activities. Read full storySevere weather disrupts Delhi airport operations, 11 flights diverted Severe weather conditions disrupted flight operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport, forcing 13 incoming flights to go around before landing attempts. Of these, 11 were diverted to nearby airports while two later landed safely. Read full story BJP attacks Kerala Congress over ‘Islam-friendly gym’ rowThe BJP accused Kerala’s Congress of favouring “sharia over Constitution” after controversy erupted over an “Islam-friendly gym” proposed in Palakkad. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari alleged the Congress was acting under pressure from its ally IUML and promoting religious appeasement. Read full storyAbout 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 MediaVideosAfter TCS Nashik Case, Ex-Wipro Pune Employee Alleges Religious Conversion, Forced ResignationNo Woman In Karnataka Cabinet: Margaret Alva ‘Deeply Disappointed’ Over DK Shivakumar Oath CeremonyPune IT Firm Abruptly Closes Operations, Over 700 Employees And Interns Left JoblessCongress Tells Cadre To Ignore CJP, Stay Focused On NEET-CBSE AgitationWhy IRCTC Is Verifying 6 Crore Users And Deploying AI Cameras In 800 KitchensBeyond Roads And Troops: Why India Is Building A Model Village Near The LACBJP Alleges TMC MLA Linked To Land Grab, Compensation Fraud And Illegal Construction; Seeks ED ProbeBihar Hospital Fire Claims Four Lives; CM Announces Rs 4 Lakh AidViral Marriage Proposal By Army Captain Draws Scrutiny Over Military ProtocolPermission Pending As CJP Mobilises Supporters For June 6 Jantar Mantar Protest123Photostories8 words that women hate from the core of their heart: Which one can YOU not standGetting married soon? 10 common questions women should ask themselves before tying the knotMillions of women live with period pain, PMOS and UTIs: But experts say that doesn’t make them normalFrom Spiti to Antarctica: World’s most unusual post offices every traveller should visitToo much screen time? Here are 8 things parents can do to set healthy boundaries for kidsAamir Ali’s luxurious Mumbai house: A massive living room, art collection, walk-in wardrobe and moreThe most powerful Devi Mantras to enhance your inner power and strengthIs your child ready for pre-school? These 8 signs can help you decideWhich Hindu holy book should you read during difficult times?When is a headache more than just a headache? Doctor explains the brain tumor warning signs people often ignore123Hot PicksDelhi Restaurant FireLauren FryerAbhishek BanerjeeLos Angeles Airport DetentionAuston MatthewsSean StricklandKylian MbappeNuclear Scientist DeathNHL Trade RumorsTop TrendingDelhi Malviya Nagar Restaurant FireBengaluru MurderK AnnamalaiAnnapurna BhandarFirhad HakimDK ShivakumarKerala MonsoonAbhishek BanerjeeMamata BanerjeeKoyambedu Baw Brawl Rakul Preet Singh reveals how a workout mishap left her bedridden for over month: ‘That one mistake caused me a slip disc’ The ‘magic potion’ behind trees: scientists discover protein that let plants conquer land 470 million years ago Paying for 300 Mbps WiFi but getting only 50? Know how to file complaint and claim relief ‘Panic, uncertainty’: Indian techie recalls moment when friends asked him to leave his own wedding and fly to US Manoj Bajpayee says the hype around the big budgets of movies like ‘Ramayana’, Varanasi’ is a PR tactic: ‘These Rs 500-600 crore that they are talking about…’ Proverb of the day: “The donkey that feared the dust of the road spent its life admiring…” | How Lalit Modi convinced his family to accept his marriage to Minal Sagrani, who was 10 years older: The love story that defied the odds Indian national Gurpinder Singh arrested for attempting to steal $495,000 in gold bars from elderly Florida woman DMK supremo MK Stalin and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi (File photo) NEW DELHI: The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Thursday announced that it will not participate in the INDIA bloc meeting scheduled to take place in the national capital on June 8.The MK Stalin-led party, which was voted out of power after a single term in the recently held Tamil Nadu assembly elections, said it will not attend the meeting because of the Congress.”The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam will not participate in the “India” alliance meeting in Delhi on June 8th, where the Congress is taking part! At the same time – on issues raised by other parties included in this meeting that harm the nation’s welfare, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam will always raise its voice,” it shared on its X handle.The two parties had fought the polls as allies. However, the Congress later joined hands with actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), which now governs Tamil Nadu.Also Read: INDIA bloc cracks as Congress snaps 11-year-old DMK tiesThe DMK’s move had been widely anticipated, as it had already announced a break in ties following the Congress’ alliance with TVK.The upcoming meeting of the INDIA bloc, the Congress-led opposition alliance, will be its first in several months. It will be held in the backdrop of the recent assembly elections in four states, including Tamil Nadu, and the Union territory of Puducherry. The results strengthened the BJP and dealt a setback to the opposition, although the Congress secured a victory in Kerala for the first time in 10 years and is now part of the government in Tamil Nadu for the first time in almost 60 years.Also Read: Winds of change in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu may steady NDA’s ship in ParliamentThe INDIA bloc was formed in July 2023 ahead of the Lok Sabha elections the following year with the aim of preventing the BJP from winning a third consecutive term. While the BJP went on to secure a third term, it lost its parliamentary majority for the first time since 2014.Together, the INDIA members hold 234 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. With 22 MPs, the DMK is the fourth-largest constituent of the alliance, after the Congress (99), the Samajwadi Party (37), and the Trinamool Congress (29).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 MediaVideosNo Woman In Karnataka Cabinet: Margaret Alva ‘Deeply Disappointed’ Over DK Shivakumar Oath CeremonyPune IT Firm Abruptly Closes Operations, Over 700 Employees And Interns Left JoblessCongress Tells Cadre To Ignore CJP, Stay Focused On NEET-CBSE AgitationWhy IRCTC Is Verifying 6 Crore Users And Deploying AI Cameras In 800 KitchensBeyond Roads And Troops: Why India Is Building A Model Village Near The LACBJP Alleges TMC MLA Linked To Land Grab, Compensation Fraud And Illegal Construction; Seeks ED ProbeBihar Hospital Fire Claims Four Lives; CM Announces Rs 4 Lakh AidViral Marriage Proposal By Army Captain Draws Scrutiny Over Military ProtocolPermission Pending As CJP Mobilises Supporters For June 6 Jantar Mantar ProtestDelhi Government Orders Crackdown After Fatal Hotel Fire In Malviya Nagar123PhotostoriesGetting married soon? 10 common questions women should ask themselves before tying the knotMillions of women live with period pain, PMOS and UTIs: But experts say that doesn’t make them normalFrom Spiti to Antarctica: World’s most unusual post offices every traveller should visitToo much screen time? Here are 8 things parents can do to set healthy boundaries for kidsAamir Ali’s luxurious Mumbai house: A massive living room, art collection, walk-in wardrobe and moreThe most powerful Devi Mantras to enhance your inner power and strengthIs your child ready for pre-school? These 8 signs can help you decideWhich Hindu holy book should you read during difficult times?When is a headache more than just a headache? Doctor explains the brain tumor warning signs people often ignoreMadhuri Dixit just gave denim fabric a couture upgrade with a saree, and the internet can’t look away123Hot PicksDelhi Restaurant FireLauren FryerAbhishek BanerjeeLos Angeles Airport DetentionAuston MatthewsAnnapurna Bhandar schemeKylian MbappeNuclear Scientist DeathKCET Result 2026Top TrendingDelhi Malviya Nagar Restaurant FireBengaluru MurderK AnnamalaiAnnapurna BhandarFirhad HakimDK ShivakumarKerala MonsoonAbhishek BanerjeeMamata BanerjeeKoyambedu Baw Brawl Jun 04, 2026, 18:17 IST BCECEB DECE (LE) result 2026 released at bceceboard.bihar.gov.in: Direct link to download scorecards here Evanescence’s Amy Lee shares joy over 11-year-old son Jack’s new music obsession: ‘The perfect age for metal’ Child behavior expert says these 5 common phrases parents say to their children can hurt them psychologically India expands ethanol map: 5,000 fuel stations planned by 2027 end; Delhi NCR, Pune & more on list UAE announces public holiday for Islamic New Year, three-day weekend for employees | World News . NEW DELHI: Are fitness bands, popularly used for measuring and monitoring physical activities and vital parameters, a communication device?The Supreme Court has agreed to examine this question but has flagged that its Bluetooth connectivity capability could have been the reason for its classification as a communication device.Petitioner GOQii Technologies imported activity trackers/fitness bands, and the consignment was classified as communication devices by the Customs department asking the company to execute provisional duty bonds for Rs 3.64 crore. The goods were released after the company furnished a bank guarantee of Rs 1 crore.Petitioner’s counsel Kumar Sambhav told a bench of Justices P S Narasimha, Aravind Kumar and Shree Chandrashekhar that the fitness bands being measuring/counting instruments should have been classified as ‘pedometers and the like/other’ but customs department erroneously treated the goods as apparatus for ‘transmission or reception of data’ and levied additional duties.The bench agreed to examine the questions raised by the petitioner, issued notice to the Commissioner Customs (imports) and posted the matter for further hearing on Sep 11. “Till the next date of hearing, the bank guarantee shall not be invoked,” the bench ordered.The petitioner said, “The principal and predominant function of the goods, as found on the record, is the measurement and monitoring of physical activity and vital parameters, and that the data-connectivity (Bluetooth) feature is admittedly ancillary.”Justice Kumar said it does not remain a purely measuring device when it can be connected to communication devices like mobile phones and other satellite-based communication systems through Bluetooth and serve as a communication device.The petitioner said before the Customs, Excise & Services Tax Appellate Tribunal (CESTAT), it had placed Bombay IIT’s expert opinion of Bombay IIT that it is not a communication but a measuring device, but the tribunal upheld the customs department’s stand.CESTAT had rejected the company’s plea for classification of fitness bands as ‘pedometers’ saying, “Essential function of all pedometers are that when a person takes each step, a mechanism like swinging pendulum to one side and then back again or swinging hammer touches metal contact to complete an electrical circuit to measure each of such step, in measuring the distance travelled by a person.”Upholding the determination that these fitness bands were communication devices, the CESTAT had said, “Once the activity tracker/fitness band or smart watch is synced with GOQii application, the regular activity data and sleep data, tracked automatically and manually, will be visible to the coaches, who will in turn give daily support, resources, motivation and interpretation of the tracking data to help individual wearer to stay on track so as to reach individual fitness goals.”End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPune IT Firm Abruptly Closes Operations, Over 700 Employees And Interns Left JoblessCongress Tells Cadre To Ignore CJP, Stay Focused On NEET-CBSE AgitationWhy IRCTC Is Verifying 6 Crore Users And Deploying AI Cameras In 800 KitchensBeyond Roads And Troops: Why India Is Building A Model Village Near The LACBJP Alleges TMC MLA Linked To Land Grab, Compensation Fraud And Illegal Construction; Seeks ED ProbeBihar Hospital Fire Claims Four Lives; CM Announces Rs 4 Lakh AidViral Marriage Proposal By Army Captain Draws Scrutiny Over Military ProtocolPermission Pending As CJP Mobilises Supporters For June 6 Jantar Mantar ProtestDelhi Government Orders Crackdown After Fatal Hotel Fire In Malviya NagarIndia’s Naval Power Grows With Induction Of Five Indigenous Warships123PhotostoriesGetting married soon? 10 common questions women should ask themselves before tying the knotMillions of women live with period pain, PMOS and UTIs: But experts say that doesn’t make them normalFrom Spiti to Antarctica: World’s most unusual post offices every traveller should visitToo much screen time? Here are 8 things parents can do to set healthy boundaries for kidsAamir Ali’s luxurious Mumbai house: A massive living room, art collection, walk-in wardrobe and moreThe most powerful Devi Mantras to enhance your inner power and strengthIs your child ready for pre-school? These 8 signs can help you decideWhich Hindu holy book should you read during difficult times?When is a headache more than just a headache? Doctor explains the brain tumor warning signs people often ignoreMadhuri Dixit just gave denim fabric a couture upgrade with a saree, and the internet can’t look away123Hot PicksDelhi Restaurant FireManchester CityDelhi Airport FlightTS LAWCET 2026Lovkesh BajajAnnapurna Bhandar schemeNEET re-exam 2026Annapurna schemeKCET Result 2026Top TrendingDelhi Malviya Nagar Restaurant FireBengaluru MurderK AnnamalaiAnnapurna BhandarFirhad HakimDK ShivakumarKerala MonsoonAbhishek BanerjeeMamata BanerjeeKoyambedu Baw Brawl