VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html EC rejects TMC pick’s nomination for subsisting contract with govt World’s oldest computer revealed: A YouTuber’s data leads scientists to new insights into 2,000 years of computing history Today, April 11, is a deeply special day for all of us. It is the birth anniversary of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, one of India’s greatest social reformers and a guiding light for generations. This year, the occasion carries even greater significance, as it marks the beginning of his 200th birth anniversary celebrations. Mahatma Phule was a great reformer. In addition to that, his was a life of moral courage, restless enquiry and unshakable commitment to social good. Mahatma Phule is remembered for the institutions he built and the movements he led. At the same time, his contribution to our civilisational journey lies in the hope he aroused, the confidence he instilled and the strength his thoughts continue to give to millions of people across the nation. Born in the great state of Maharashtra in 1827, Mahatma Phule emerged from modest beginnings. But his initial hardships never stood in the way of his learning, his courage or his commitment to society. This is a trait that remained with him forever: whatever the challenges may be, one must work hard, acquire knowledge and mitigate those challenges instead of doing nothing about it. From his school days, young Jyotirao was deeply curious and became a voracious reader, often reading books far beyond what children his age were expected to engage with. Years later, he said, “The more questions we generate, the more knowledge emerges from them.” Clearly, the spirit of enquiry he was blessed with since his childhood remained constant in his journey. Throughout his life, learning and education became central to Mahatma Phule’s mission. He recognised with rare clarity that knowledge is not a privilege to be guarded, but a force to be shared. At a time when the joys of learning were denied to many, he opened pioneering schools for girls and for those kept out of formal education. He used to say, “Any improvement that comes in children through mothers is deeply valuable. Therefore, if schools are to be opened, they should first be opened for girls.” He worked to create a new social imagination in which the classroom became an instrument of justice and equality. His vision for education inspires us greatly. Over the last decade, we have worked to make research and innovation a cornerstone for the youth of India. Efforts are being made to create an ecosystem where young minds are encouraged to question, explore and innovate. By investing in knowledge, skills and opportunity, India is empowering its youth to become problem-solvers and drivers of national progress. Due to his knowledge and wisdom, Mahatma Phule developed a strong understanding of areas such as agriculture, healthcare and rural development. He often said that injustice towards our farmers and workers weakens our society. He saw how social inequalities manifested themselves in daily life, be it in the farms or in villages. Hence, he immersed himself in ensuring dignity for the poor, the downtrodden and the marginalised. At the same time, he made every possible effort to ensure social harmony was maintained. Mahatma Phule opined, “जोपर्यंत समाजातील सर्वांना समान अधिकार मिळत नाहीत, तोपर्यंत खरे स्वातंत्र्य मिळत नाही (True freedom cannot be achieved until everyone in society is granted equal rights).” And for that, he built institutions that translated this vision into action, contributing to a just society. The Satyashodhak Samaj, founded by him, was one of the most important social reform movements in modern India. It was at the forefront of social reform, community service and furthering human dignity. It became an effective voice for women, youngsters and those living in villages. This movement reflected Mahatma Phule’s intrinsic belief that society could be strengthened by placing at its core justice, respect for every person and a spirit of collective progress. His personal life, too, carried lessons in courage. Always working and being among the people took a toll on his health. But even the most serious health challenges did not dim his resolve. After suffering a debilitating stroke, he continued to work and fulfil his vision. Yes, his body had been tested, but his commitment to society had not yielded. For millions today, especially those who draw courage from struggle, this remains one of the most powerful dimensions of his life. No remembrance of Mahatma Phule can be complete without a respectful mention of Savitribai Phule, who was herself one of the tallest reformers of our nation. As one of India’s pioneering women teachers, she played a defining role in advancing education for girls, thus giving them the opportunity to pursue their dreams. After Mahatma Phule’s passing, Savitribai carried forward that torch and, in 1897, during a plague outbreak, she served victims with such devotion that she herself contracted the disease and lost her own life. Our land has been blessed, time and again, by great men and women who have strengthened society through thought, sacrifice and action. They did not wait for change to arrive from somewhere else. They became its source. For hundreds of years in our land, the clarion call for social betterment has often risen from within society itself, from those who could see suffering clearly and refused to accept it as fate. Mahatma Jyotirao Phule was one such voice. I fondly recall my visit to Pune in 2022, when I had offered tributes to Mahatma Phule at his grand statue in the city. As we mark the beginning of his bicentenary year, the most fitting tribute to Mahatma Jyotirao Phule is about renewal. Renewal of our commitment to subjects close to his heart, such as education. Renewal of our sensitivity to injustice. Renewal of our faith that society can improve itself from within. His life tells us that the power of community can achieve miracles in India when joined with moral clarity and public purpose. That is why he still gives strength to millions. That is why his words and work still carry hope. And that is why, nearly two hundred years after his birth, Mahatma Jyotirao Phule remains not a figure of the past, but a guide for India’s future. (The writer is PM of India)End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosDelhi Police Crack Down on ISI-Linked Spy Module, 10 Arrested; Second Network Busted After Pan-India Surveillance Plot’Chokepoints Now A Global Anxiety’: Jaishankar Invokes West Asia Crisis At Indian Ocean ConferenceMathura: Boat Carrying Devotees Capsizes In Yamuna; 10 Bodies Recovered, Rescue Ops OnQatar Assures Reliable Energy Supply To India Amid West Asia Crisis After Hardeep Puri’s Doha VisitPakistan-ISI Spy Network Busted: 11 Arrested For Recce Of Military Sites Across North IndiaCentre Notifies CAPF General Administration Act 2026; Families, Retired Officers Protest in DelhiJustice Yashwant Varma Resigns Amid Cash Row — Why He Stepped Down On Day Of Impeachment Defence’Win A War Without Firing?’ CDS Anil Chauhan Explains Shift From Battlefield To Perception WarfareExercise Brahmastra: Indian army’s first firing from the AH-64E Apache attack helicoptersMarco Rubio’s India Visit Next Month After Talks With Vikram Misri in Washington123PhotostoriesFrom Vivek Dahiya getting emotional during Divyanka Tripathi’s pregnancy scan to pampering her midnight cravings, the couple share their journeyHow to differentiate between naturally and chemically ripened banana: FSSAI’s rulebook on ripening temperature for the fruit4 high-profile business family feuds that made headlines globally5 things that make Bandhavgarh National Park irresistible to nature loversFrom Yashasvi Jaiswal-Maddie Hamilton to Hardik Pandya-Mahieka Sharma: 5 Indian cricketers and their rumoured girlfriendsGold or platinum with diamonds: Which one actually makes you look richer?Chef Sanjeev Kapoor shares secrets on how to use moong (whole, split with skin, and split skinless) for maximum benefitsShubman Gill’s new house in Juhu, Mumbai is a ₹20 crore luxury apartment with sea views, full-floor privacy and luxury amenitiesWant love that lasts? 5 phrases that can save your relationshipChild’s roti and sugar for school lunch goes viral: 13 school tiffin meals that all 90s kids can relate to123Hot PicksIran war ceasefirePAN Card application 2026Purple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingStephen Curry charityLaura Loomer reactionIndia Lebanon civilianRajouri grenade recoveryUS stock marketPAN Card application 2026Hinjewadi Metro lineUS inflationSchool Holidays in AprilLaken Snelling case Cancer Horoscope Today, April 11, 2026: Save first before spending anything How BBC recreated a highly controversial 1974 psychology prison experiment to test human obedience Kargil hero Sonam Wangchuk dead; Rajnath hails ‘son of Ladakh’ | India News 4,430 OPTs only in Missouri; janitorial services training: US senator reveals ‘visa abuse’ facts KOLKATA: “Legally married; currently separated” is how actor and BJP’s Kharagpur Town MLA Hiranmoy Chattopadhyay (Hiraan) has described his marital status in his nomination affidavit while mentioning Anindita Chattopadhyay as his spouse. Earlier this year, Anindita had filed an FIR accusing Hiraan of mental and physical cruelty and entering into a second marriage without divorce after photos surfaced of the actor and associate Rittika Giri performing Hindu wedding rituals in Varanasi. Hiraan, contesting this time from Shyampur in Howrah district, declared Rs 15 lakh cash in hand and Anindita’s at Rs 12 lakh. His bank and insurance investments total Rs 5.3 crore. He owns a car worth Rs 4.7 lakh while Anindita has an SUV worth Rs 5 lakh registered in her name. He declared 20 gms jewellery worth Rs 4.7 lakh. Anindita’s jewellery is valued at Rs 18 lakh. Their combined assets are Rs 14.5 crore while liabilities are Rs 2.3 lakh. Hiraan also has four pending criminal cases, including assault and conspiracy charges and the complaint filed by Anindita.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosDelhi Police Crack Down on ISI-Linked Spy Module, 10 Arrested; Second Network Busted After Pan-India Surveillance Plot’Chokepoints Now A Global Anxiety’: Jaishankar Invokes West Asia Crisis At Indian Ocean ConferenceMathura: Boat Carrying Devotees Capsizes In Yamuna; 10 Bodies Recovered, Rescue Ops OnQatar Assures Reliable Energy Supply To India Amid West Asia Crisis After Hardeep Puri’s Doha VisitPakistan-ISI Spy Network Busted: 11 Arrested For Recce Of Military Sites Across North IndiaCentre Notifies CAPF General Administration Act 2026; Families, Retired Officers Protest in DelhiJustice Yashwant Varma Resigns Amid Cash Row — Why He Stepped Down On Day Of Impeachment Defence’Win A War Without Firing?’ CDS Anil Chauhan Explains Shift From Battlefield To Perception WarfareExercise Brahmastra: Indian army’s first firing from the AH-64E Apache attack helicoptersMarco Rubio’s India Visit Next Month After Talks With Vikram Misri in Washington123PhotostoriesFrom Vivek Dahiya getting emotional during Divyanka Tripathi’s pregnancy scan to pampering her midnight cravings, the couple share their journeyHow to differentiate between naturally and chemically ripened banana: FSSAI’s rulebook on ripening temperature for the fruit4 high-profile business family feuds that made headlines globally5 things that make Bandhavgarh National Park irresistible to nature loversFrom Yashasvi Jaiswal-Maddie Hamilton to Hardik Pandya-Mahieka Sharma: 5 Indian cricketers and their rumoured girlfriendsGold or platinum with diamonds: Which one actually makes you look richer?Chef Sanjeev Kapoor shares secrets on how to use moong (whole, split with skin, and split skinless) for maximum benefitsShubman Gill’s new house in Juhu, Mumbai is a ₹20 crore luxury apartment with sea views, full-floor privacy and luxury amenitiesWant love that lasts? 5 phrases that can save your relationshipChild’s roti and sugar for school lunch goes viral: 13 school tiffin meals that all 90s kids can relate to123Hot PicksIran war ceasefirePAN Card application 2026Purple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingStephen Curry charityLaura Loomer reactionIndia Lebanon civilianRajouri grenade recoveryUS stock marketPAN Card application 2026Hinjewadi Metro lineUS inflationSchool Holidays in AprilLaken Snelling case 11 mistakes you should avoid while ordering a pizza | New Mahogany species found in Zanzibar: Threat looms over them as fewer than 30 trees remain Deleted from Bengal rolls & added to Bihar list: TMC worker | India News ‘Run again!’ Kamala Harris confirms she’s thinking about running for president again in 2028 KOLKATA: Asaduddin Owaisi’s AIMIM Friday severed its electoral alliance with Humayun Kabir’s Aam Janata Unnayan Party, a day after a purported sting video showed a person resembling the suspended TMC MLA discussing a Rs 1,000-crore arrangement with BJP for post-election support and suggesting Muslim voters needed to be “misled” to influence poll outcomes. “Humayun Kabir’s revelations have shown how vulnerable Bengal’s Muslims are. AIMIM cannot associate with statements questioning their integrity,” the party posted on X, adding it would now contest the polls independently. The earlier alliance had AUJP contesting 182 of 294 seats and AIMIM 17. The video, titled ‘The Reality of HK’ and released by TMC, was said to have been recorded on Dec 19 but remains unverified. Kabir dismissed it as AI-generated, accusing TMC of trying to erode his support base, and said he would move court. Amit Shah denied any BJP link. “Kabir and BJP are like South and North Pole,” he said, though Kabir had contested the 2019 LS polls on a BJP ticket. At a rally in Rampurhat, Kabir attended but AIMIM leaders stayed away. He accused Mamata Banerjee of acting as a “middleman of RSS”. – Tamaghna Banerjee & S BoralEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosDelhi Police Crack Down on ISI-Linked Spy Module, 10 Arrested; Second Network Busted After Pan-India Surveillance Plot’Chokepoints Now A Global Anxiety’: Jaishankar Invokes West Asia Crisis At Indian Ocean ConferenceMathura: Boat Carrying Devotees Capsizes In Yamuna; 10 Bodies Recovered, Rescue Ops OnQatar Assures Reliable Energy Supply To India Amid West Asia Crisis After Hardeep Puri’s Doha VisitPakistan-ISI Spy Network Busted: 11 Arrested For Recce Of Military Sites Across North IndiaCentre Notifies CAPF General Administration Act 2026; Families, Retired Officers Protest in DelhiJustice Yashwant Varma Resigns Amid Cash Row — Why He Stepped Down On Day Of Impeachment Defence’Win A War Without Firing?’ CDS Anil Chauhan Explains Shift From Battlefield To Perception WarfareExercise Brahmastra: Indian army’s first firing from the AH-64E Apache attack helicoptersMarco Rubio’s India Visit Next Month After Talks With Vikram Misri in Washington123PhotostoriesFrom Vivek Dahiya getting emotional during Divyanka Tripathi’s pregnancy scan to pampering her midnight cravings, the couple share their journeyHow to differentiate between naturally and chemically ripened banana: FSSAI’s rulebook on ripening temperature for the fruit5 things that make Bandhavgarh National Park irresistible to nature loversGold or platinum with diamonds: Which one actually makes you look richer?Chef Sanjeev Kapoor shares secrets on how to use moong (whole, split with skin, and split skinless) for maximum benefitsShubman Gill’s new house in Juhu, Mumbai is a ₹20 crore luxury apartment with sea views, full-floor privacy and luxury amenitiesChild’s roti and sugar for school lunch goes viral: 13 school tiffin meals that all 90s kids can relate to10 stunning gates that reflect the beauty of Indian architectureThat constant throat clearing isn’t just a habit: What it could reveal about acid reflux and how to manage itBest TV mystery and thriller series: ‘Sherlock’, ‘Line of Duty’, ‘Dexter’ and more123Hot PicksIran war ceasefirePAN Card application 2026Purple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingStephen Curry charityLaura Loomer reactionIndia Lebanon civilianRajouri grenade recoveryUS stock marketPAN Card application 2026Hinjewadi Metro lineUS inflationSchool Holidays in AprilLaken Snelling case Sunjay Kapur’s mom Rani Kapur claims Priya Sachdev made her sign papers without reading; says Karisma Kapoor is in touch Gemini Horoscope Today, April 11, 2026: Be strict with yourself today Day after Vijay’s unreleased film leaks online, TVK blames rivals | India News Prince Harry sued for defamation by Africa charity he co-founded in honour of late mother Princess Diana KOLKATA: TMC dubbed BJP’s ‘Sankalp Patra’ for Bengal a “copycat” manifesto, trashing its cash assistance pledges, and alleged that the saffron party never delivers on its promises. At a rally in Basirhat, CM Mamata Banerjee asked how many people had received Rs 15 lakh in their bank accounts that PM Modi had promised 12 years ago. “What about the two crore jobs per year that were promised? Was the black money issue resolved after demonetisation? What is the cost of LPG, petrol and diesel? Inflation is skyrocketing. Only the value of human life has reduced,” she said. Referring to the cash assistance promise in the manifesto, TMC spokesman Kunal Ghosh said, “When Didi implemented schemes for women, they criticised her. Later, BJP-governed states adopted these very schemes. Now, they have included them in their promises. Why would people accept copycats, photocopies, when they have the original?”End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosDelhi Police Crack Down on ISI-Linked Spy Module, 10 Arrested; Second Network Busted After Pan-India Surveillance Plot’Chokepoints Now A Global Anxiety’: Jaishankar Invokes West Asia Crisis At Indian Ocean ConferenceMathura: Boat Carrying Devotees Capsizes In Yamuna; 10 Bodies Recovered, Rescue Ops OnQatar Assures Reliable Energy Supply To India Amid West Asia Crisis After Hardeep Puri’s Doha VisitPakistan-ISI Spy Network Busted: 11 Arrested For Recce Of Military Sites Across North IndiaCentre Notifies CAPF General Administration Act 2026; Families, Retired Officers Protest in DelhiJustice Yashwant Varma Resigns Amid Cash Row — Why He Stepped Down On Day Of Impeachment Defence’Win A War Without Firing?’ CDS Anil Chauhan Explains Shift From Battlefield To Perception WarfareExercise Brahmastra: Indian army’s first firing from the AH-64E Apache attack helicoptersMarco Rubio’s India Visit Next Month After Talks With Vikram Misri in Washington123PhotostoriesFrom Vivek Dahiya getting emotional during Divyanka Tripathi’s pregnancy scan to pampering her midnight cravings, the couple share their journeyHow to differentiate between naturally and chemically ripened banana: FSSAI’s rulebook on ripening temperature for the fruit5 things that make Bandhavgarh National Park irresistible to nature loversGold or platinum with diamonds: Which one actually makes you look richer?Chef Sanjeev Kapoor shares secrets on how to use moong (whole, split with skin, and split skinless) for maximum benefitsShubman Gill’s new house in Juhu, Mumbai is a ₹20 crore luxury apartment with sea views, full-floor privacy and luxury amenitiesChild’s roti and sugar for school lunch goes viral: 13 school tiffin meals that all 90s kids can relate to10 stunning gates that reflect the beauty of Indian architectureThat constant throat clearing isn’t just a habit: What it could reveal about acid reflux and how to manage itBest TV mystery and thriller series: ‘Sherlock’, ‘Line of Duty’, ‘Dexter’ and more123Hot PicksIran war ceasefirePAN Card application 2026Purple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingVijayKerala Missing StudentTiger WoodsTelangana Triple MurderUS stock marketPAN Card application 2026Bhojshala disputeLaker Injury UpdatesSchool Holidays in AprilChar Dham Yatra 2026 Taurus Horoscope Today, April 11, 2026: Delay any nonessential purchases till tomorrow Oppn meet to forge women’s quota bill stand on April 15 H-1B stamping dates opening in India but don’t travel if you are in the US, says immigration expert SALEM: Two decades after dreaded forest brigand Veerappan was killed in a police encounter in Tamil Nadu, his daughter and widow are attempting to rewrite his story – from that of a feared outlaw to a defender of Tamil rights – through electoral politics.Veerappan’s elder daughter Vidhyarani, 35, an advocate, is contesting from Mettur constituency as a candidate of Naam Tamilar Katchi, while his widow Muthulakshmi is in the fray from Krishnagiri on behalf of Tamilaga Vazhvurimai Katchi. Both the parties back ‘Tamil nationalism’.”If my father were alive today, he would have entered the democratic process, too,” says Vidhyarani, who is testing electoral waters for the second time. She had earlier contested the 2024 Lok Sabha polls from Krishnagiri as an NTK candidate, polling over one lakh votes.For Muthulakshmi too, this marks a return to politics after her debut as an independent candidate in the 2006 assembly elections.Both the women have embraced Veerappan’s controversial legacy instead of shying away from it, and seek to repaint him. “He was not the dreaded criminal he was made out to be. He stood against exploitation and injustice,” Vidhyarani said at a rally in Mettur, drawing loud cheers, particularly from young supporters. Her campaign echoes NTK’s core plank of Tamil nationalism.NTK chief Seeman was vocal in his support for Veerappan. “If Prabhakaran (LTTE chief) was the guardian of our race, Veerappan was the guardian of our forests,” he said while canvassing for her.Vidhyarani’s political journey began with Pattali Makkal Katchi, which draws its support from Vanniyars, a numerically strong community spread across more than a dozen districts in Tamil Nadu. She joined BJP in 2020, before switching to NTK in 2024.In Krishnagiri, Muthulakshmi focusses on agrarian distress in her campaigns. “I have lived among farmers. My fight is for water, crops and dignity,” she told TOI.Both maintain that they face no hostility due to their past. “On the contrary, people respect us,” Vidhyarani said.Observers believe their entry could dent PMK – an AIADMK ally – particularly in the Vanniyar-dominated Mettur and Krishnagiri belts. While neither candidate foregrounds caste, they are expected to attract a share of the community votes, which are otherwise expected to go for PMK.About the AuthorSenthil KumaranV Senthil Kumaran is currently working as the Special Correspondent for The Times of India, focusing on the districts of Salem, Namakkal, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, and Erode. As the sole representative for these five districts in Western Tamil Nadu, Senthil Kumaran covers a wide range of topics, including crime, education, and civic issues. He has exposed numerous scams and held several government officials accountable for their actions. In addition to his journalism work, he holds an MBA in Human Resources, an M.Sc. in Psychotherapy, and an LLB, along with a BA in English Literature.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosDelhi Police Crack Down on ISI-Linked Spy Module, 10 Arrested; Second Network Busted After Pan-India Surveillance Plot’Chokepoints Now A Global Anxiety’: Jaishankar Invokes West Asia Crisis At Indian Ocean ConferenceMathura: Boat Carrying Devotees Capsizes In Yamuna; 10 Bodies Recovered, Rescue Ops OnQatar Assures Reliable Energy Supply To India Amid West Asia Crisis After Hardeep Puri’s Doha VisitPakistan-ISI Spy Network Busted: 11 Arrested For Recce Of Military Sites Across North IndiaCentre Notifies CAPF General Administration Act 2026; Families, Retired Officers Protest in DelhiJustice Yashwant Varma Resigns Amid Cash Row — Why He Stepped Down On Day Of Impeachment Defence’Win A War Without Firing?’ CDS Anil Chauhan Explains Shift From Battlefield To Perception WarfareExercise Brahmastra: Indian army’s first firing from the AH-64E Apache attack helicoptersMarco Rubio’s India Visit Next Month After Talks With Vikram Misri in Washington123PhotostoriesFrom Vivek Dahiya getting emotional during Divyanka Tripathi’s pregnancy scan to pampering her midnight cravings, the couple share their journeyHow to differentiate between naturally and chemically ripened banana: FSSAI’s rulebook on ripening temperature for the fruit4 high-profile business family feuds that made headlines globally5 things that make Bandhavgarh National Park irresistible to nature loversFrom Yashasvi Jaiswal-Maddie Hamilton to Hardik Pandya-Mahieka Sharma: 5 Indian cricketers and their rumoured girlfriendsGold or platinum with diamonds: Which one actually makes you look richer?Chef Sanjeev Kapoor shares secrets on how to use moong (whole, split with skin, and split skinless) for maximum benefitsShubman Gill’s new house in Juhu, Mumbai is a ₹20 crore luxury apartment with sea views, full-floor privacy and luxury amenitiesWant love that lasts? 5 phrases that can save your relationshipChild’s roti and sugar for school lunch goes viral: 13 school tiffin meals that all 90s kids can relate to123Hot PicksIran war ceasefirePAN Card application 2026Purple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingVijayKerala Missing StudentTiger WoodsTelangana Triple MurderUS stock marketPAN Card application 2026Bhojshala disputeLaker Injury UpdatesSchool Holidays in AprilChar Dham Yatra 2026 The simple overnight vinegar trick that is quietly transforming household air quality | Bengal, with its polarised minority vote, makes Hindutva & security good poll planks, feels BJP Jasontheween Stolen Car: Jasontheween’s livestream takes sudden turn after giveaway car is reported stolen and search begins NEW DELHI: Supreme Court on Friday asked solicitor general Tushar Mehta to examine the claims of petitioners who are relatives of Indians stranded, detained or forcibly recruited in connection with the Russia-Ukraine conflict. A bench of CJI Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi said if the claims of the petitioners – that these Indians were lured by travel agents for employment or studies in Russia but were forcibly recruited for war purposes – were true, then this was human trafficking. Mehta said if true, it was shocking and he would get a clear picture from govt and respond to the petition. The petitioners said, “Passports and identity documents of their relatives were confiscated, their freedom of movement was curtailed, and they were subjected to threats and coercion… In certain instances, they were compelled to sign documents written in languages unfamiliar to them and were thereafter forcibly enlisted or admitted into military structures associated with the Russian armed forces.” Seeking a direction from SC to govt to bring them back safely, the petitioners said, “The last communications received by their families, mostly between Sept-Oct 2025, indicated that the detainees were stationed in or near active conflict zones including Kupyansk, Selydove, Makiivka, Chelyabinsk and other regions associated with the Russia-Ukraine theatre of hostilities.”End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosDelhi Police Crack Down on ISI-Linked Spy Module, 10 Arrested; Second Network Busted After Pan-India Surveillance Plot’Chokepoints Now A Global Anxiety’: Jaishankar Invokes West Asia Crisis At Indian Ocean ConferenceMathura: Boat Carrying Devotees Capsizes In Yamuna; 10 Bodies Recovered, Rescue Ops OnQatar Assures Reliable Energy Supply To India Amid West Asia Crisis After Hardeep Puri’s Doha VisitPakistan-ISI Spy Network Busted: 11 Arrested For Recce Of Military Sites Across North IndiaCentre Notifies CAPF General Administration Act 2026; Families, Retired Officers Protest in DelhiJustice Yashwant Varma Resigns Amid Cash Row — Why He Stepped Down On Day Of Impeachment Defence’Win A War Without Firing?’ CDS Anil Chauhan Explains Shift From Battlefield To Perception WarfareExercise Brahmastra: Indian army’s first firing from the AH-64E Apache attack helicoptersMarco Rubio’s India Visit Next Month After Talks With Vikram Misri in Washington123PhotostoriesFrom Vivek Dahiya getting emotional during Divyanka Tripathi’s pregnancy scan to pampering her midnight cravings, the couple share their journeyHow to differentiate between naturally and chemically ripened banana: FSSAI’s rulebook on ripening temperature for the fruit4 high-profile business family feuds that made headlines globally5 things that make Bandhavgarh National Park irresistible to nature loversFrom Yashasvi Jaiswal-Maddie Hamilton to Hardik Pandya-Mahieka Sharma: 5 Indian cricketers and their rumoured girlfriendsGold or platinum with diamonds: Which one actually makes you look richer?Chef Sanjeev Kapoor shares secrets on how to use moong (whole, split with skin, and split skinless) for maximum benefitsShubman Gill’s new house in Juhu, Mumbai is a ₹20 crore luxury apartment with sea views, full-floor privacy and luxury amenitiesWant love that lasts? 5 phrases that can save your relationshipChild’s roti and sugar for school lunch goes viral: 13 school tiffin meals that all 90s kids can relate to123Hot PicksIran war ceasefirePAN Card application 2026Purple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingVijayKerala Missing StudentTiger WoodsTelangana Triple MurderUS stock marketPAN Card application 2026Bhojshala disputeLaker Injury UpdatesSchool Holidays in AprilChar Dham Yatra 2026 Amid Dhurandhar 2 success, Ranveer Singh visits RSS headquarters in Nagpur, meets Mohan Bhagwat; pays tribute to founder Hedgewar | Aries Horoscope Today, April 11, 2026: Money matters look steady Quote of the day by Aristotle: “Anybody can become angry — that is easy, but to be angry with the right person and to the right degree and at the right time and for the right purpose, and in the right way — that is not within everybody’s power and is not easy.” NEW DELHI: Amid outrage over the latest Israeli strikes on Lebanon, India on Friday expressed deep concern over the large number of civilian casualties in aerial attacks that followed the two-week US-Iran ceasefire announced on Wednesday. The attacks left over 300 dead, according to reports from the region. As a troop-contributing country to UN Interim Forces in Lebanon (UNIFIL) which is invested in Lebanon’s peace and security, the direction of events is very disturbing, said the ministry of external affairs in response to media queries. The ministry did not name Israel. The ceasefire has come under strain because of confusi-on over whether Lebanon is included in the deal. While Israel maintains it is not, Iran has described the attacks as a blatant violation of the agreement. “India has always emphasised the protection of civilians as the foremost priority. Observing international law and respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity of states is essential,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, adding that the Indian embassy in Lebanon remained in close touch with the Indian community for its safety and security. India had welcomed the temporary ceasefire, expressing hope that it would facilitate freedom of navigation through Strait of Hormuz and lead to lasting peace in the region. Pakistan seemed set to host talks between the US and Iran on Saturday to secure the ceasefire, which remains fragile for now. On his way to Pakistan, US Vice-President J D Vance said he was looking forward to the negotiations that he thought were going to be positive. However, he warned Tehran not to “play” the US. “As the President of the US said, if the Iranians are willing to negotiate in good faith, we’re certainly willing to extend the open hand. If they’re going to try to play us, then they’re going to find the negotiating team is not that receptive,” said Vance. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that Israel was ready to start negotiations with Lebanon for disarming Hezbollah and establishing peaceful relations.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosDelhi Police Crack Down on ISI-Linked Spy Module, 10 Arrested; Second Network Busted After Pan-India Surveillance Plot’Chokepoints Now A Global Anxiety’: Jaishankar Invokes West Asia Crisis At Indian Ocean ConferenceMathura: Boat Carrying Devotees Capsizes In Yamuna; 10 Bodies Recovered, Rescue Ops OnQatar Assures Reliable Energy Supply To India Amid West Asia Crisis After Hardeep Puri’s Doha VisitPakistan-ISI Spy Network Busted: 11 Arrested For Recce Of Military Sites Across North IndiaCentre Notifies CAPF General Administration Act 2026; Families, Retired Officers Protest in DelhiJustice Yashwant Varma Resigns Amid Cash Row — Why He Stepped Down On Day Of Impeachment Defence’Win A War Without Firing?’ CDS Anil Chauhan Explains Shift From Battlefield To Perception WarfareExercise Brahmastra: Indian army’s first firing from the AH-64E Apache attack helicoptersMarco Rubio’s India Visit Next Month After Talks With Vikram Misri in Washington123PhotostoriesHow to differentiate between naturally and chemically ripened banana: FSSAI’s rulebook on ripening temperature for the fruit5 things that make Bandhavgarh National Park irresistible to nature loversGold or platinum with diamonds: Which one actually makes you look richer?Chef Sanjeev Kapoor shares secrets on how to use moong (whole, split with skin, and split skinless) for maximum benefitsShubman Gill’s new house in Juhu, Mumbai is a ₹20 crore luxury apartment with sea views, full-floor privacy and luxury amenitiesChild’s roti and sugar for school lunch goes viral: 13 school tiffin meals that all 90s kids can relate to10 stunning gates that reflect the beauty of Indian architectureThat constant throat clearing isn’t just a habit: What it could reveal about acid reflux and how to manage itBest TV mystery and thriller series: ‘Sherlock’, ‘Line of Duty’, ‘Dexter’ and moreKangana Ranaut, Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan to Hema Malini: Bollywood celebrities who stepped into politics123Hot PicksIran war ceasefirePAN Card application 2026Purple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingVijayKerala Missing StudentTiger WoodsTelangana Triple MurderUS stock marketPAN Card application 2026Bhojshala disputeLaker Injury UpdatesSchool Holidays in AprilChar Dham Yatra 2026 One of the ‘most controversial’ AI practices is moving beyond Big Tech; Visa says … Canary Islands crash: 1 dead, 27 injured as bus carrying British tourists plunges into ravine School van driver held for Pakistan contacts on phoneJAMMU: Security forces seized a suspected IED-type box containing two grenades in Sunderbani belt of J&K’s Rajouri district Friday, prompting troops to cordon off the area. The recovery came a day after a school van driver was detained in Jammu over three Pakistani contacts on his cellphone.“Locals spotted the suspicious box near a water body in Thandapani, close to Govt Degree College, Sunderbani, and alerted cops. A team of security personnel rushed to the site and secured the area,” an official said. The bomb disposal squad was called in to destroy the material.On Thursday, the driver of an Army Public School van was detained over suspected terror links in Jammu. Police launched further investigations. “A preliminary examination of his cellphone revealed incoming calls from numbers starting with ‘+92’ country code that were saved under different names,” the official said.The suspect was handed over to Chatta Police Post for further probe.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosDelhi Police Crack Down on ISI-Linked Spy Module, 10 Arrested; Second Network Busted After Pan-India Surveillance Plot’Chokepoints Now A Global Anxiety’: Jaishankar Invokes West Asia Crisis At Indian Ocean ConferenceMathura: Boat Carrying Devotees Capsizes In Yamuna; 10 Bodies Recovered, Rescue Ops OnQatar Assures Reliable Energy Supply To India Amid West Asia Crisis After Hardeep Puri’s Doha VisitPakistan-ISI Spy Network Busted: 11 Arrested For Recce Of Military Sites Across North IndiaCentre Notifies CAPF General Administration Act 2026; Families, Retired Officers Protest in DelhiJustice Yashwant Varma Resigns Amid Cash Row — Why He Stepped Down On Day Of Impeachment Defence’Win A War Without Firing?’ CDS Anil Chauhan Explains Shift From Battlefield To Perception WarfareExercise Brahmastra: Indian army’s first firing from the AH-64E Apache attack helicoptersMarco Rubio’s India Visit Next Month After Talks With Vikram Misri in Washington123PhotostoriesHow to differentiate between naturally and chemically ripened banana: FSSAI’s rulebook on ripening temperature for the fruit4 high-profile business family feuds that made headlines globally5 things that make Bandhavgarh National Park irresistible to nature loversFrom Yashasvi Jaiswal-Maddie Hamilton to Hardik Pandya-Mahieka Sharma: 5 Indian cricketers and their rumoured girlfriendsGold or platinum with diamonds: Which one actually makes you look richer?Chef Sanjeev Kapoor shares secrets on how to use moong (whole, split with skin, and split skinless) for maximum benefitsShubman Gill’s new house in Juhu, Mumbai is a ₹20 crore luxury apartment with sea views, full-floor privacy and luxury amenitiesWant love that lasts? 5 phrases that can save your relationshipChild’s roti and sugar for school lunch goes viral: 13 school tiffin meals that all 90s kids can relate to10 stunning gates that reflect the beauty of Indian architecture123Hot PicksIran war ceasefirePAN Card application 2026Purple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingVijayKerala Missing StudentTiger WoodsTelangana Triple MurderUS stock marketPAN Card application 2026Bhojshala disputeLaker Injury UpdatesSchool Holidays in AprilChar Dham Yatra 2026 IPL 2026: Dhruv Jurel, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi stand tall as RR give defending champ RCB first taste of defeat Laura Loomer reacts as President blasts Candace Owens and others, takes dig at her looks in viral post Florida to add legal status on drivers’ licenses from 2027: US citizen or legal immigrant Nora Fatehi on being called ‘intimidating’ in dating: ‘I don’t need a man to pay—but I want to feel feminine and taken care of’ | Hindi Movie News Half of Americans don’t realise THIS common food may increase colon cancer risk; survey reveals | Horoscope Today: Daily astrological predictions for April 11, 2026 ‘Told to stay cool’: IT firm sexual exploitation case snowballs, ‘suspect’ HR officer gets notice Man arrested after infant dies following suspected dog attack in Redcar area Bengaluru: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), seeking an action taken report over a complaint related to extramarital dating platform Gleeden, citing concerns around user safety, exploitation and access by minors.The notice, dated April 9, follows a complaint filed by Seva Nyaya Utthan Foundation, which alleged that the app facilitates extramarital relationships and has millions of users in India. The complaint raised concerns over misuse through fake identities, potential exploitation of women, and risks posed to minors accessing the platform.“The complaint highlights concerns about misuse through false identities, exploitation of women, and access by minors, raising serious issues of user safety and regulatory oversight,” said Priyank Kanoongo, member, National Human Rights Commission, in a post on X.The commission noted that the allegations, on a prima facie basis, “seem to be violations of the human rights of the victims,” and directed MeitY to examine the matter and submit a report within two weeks.The NHRC has also asked the ministry to review safeguards in place for women and children, and to assess whether existing regulatory frameworks adequately cover such platforms.The development comes amid increasing scrutiny of digital platforms offering adult-oriented services, particularly around verification, user safety and regulatory oversight in India’s internet ecosystem.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Chokepoints Now A Global Anxiety’: Jaishankar Invokes West Asia Crisis At Indian Ocean ConferenceMathura: Boat Carrying Devotees Capsizes In Yamuna; 10 Bodies Recovered, Rescue Ops OnQatar Assures Reliable Energy Supply To India Amid West Asia Crisis After Hardeep Puri’s Doha VisitPakistan-ISI Spy Network Busted: 11 Arrested For Recce Of Military Sites Across North IndiaCentre Notifies CAPF General Administration Act 2026; Families, Retired Officers Protest in DelhiJustice Yashwant Varma Resigns Amid Cash Row — Why He Stepped Down On Day Of Impeachment Defence’Win A War Without Firing?’ CDS Anil Chauhan Explains Shift From Battlefield To Perception WarfareExercise Brahmastra: Indian army’s first firing from the AH-64E Apache attack helicoptersMarco Rubio’s India Visit Next Month After Talks With Vikram Misri in WashingtonTelangana HC Grants Pawan Khera One Week Bail In FIR By Himanta Sarma’s Wife123Photostories4 high-profile business family feuds that made headlines globally5 things that make Bandhavgarh National Park irresistible to nature loversFrom Yashasvi Jaiswal-Maddie Hamilton to Hardik Pandya-Mahieka Sharma: 5 Indian cricketers and their rumoured girlfriendsGold or platinum with diamonds: Which one actually makes you look richer?Chef Sanjeev Kapoor shares secrets on how to use moong (whole, split with skin, and split skinless) for maximum benefitsShubman Gill’s new house in Juhu, Mumbai is a ₹20 crore luxury apartment with sea views, full-floor privacy and luxury amenitiesWant love that lasts? 5 phrases that can save your relationshipChild’s roti and sugar for school lunch goes viral: 13 school tiffin meals that all 90s kids can relate to10 stunning gates that reflect the beauty of Indian architectureThat constant throat clearing isn’t just a habit: What it could reveal about acid reflux and how to manage it123Hot PicksIran war ceasefirePAN Card application 2026Purple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingVijayKerala Missing StudentTiger WoodsTelangana Triple MurderUS stock marketPAN Card application 2026Bhojshala disputeLaker Injury UpdatesSchool Holidays in AprilChar Dham Yatra 2026 BITSAT admit card 2026 released at bits-pilani.admissions.ac.in: Direct link to download hall tickets here “Can i borrow your whistle?” Dianna Russini’s old interview with Mike Vrabel resurfaces, fueling fresh fan theories despite firm denial of affair rumors Alex Jones Reaction: “A nightmare for America”: Alex Jones reacts after president comments and describes the moment as deeply concerning Representative image NEW DELHI: State-owned Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL) has received environmental clearance from the Argentine govt for deep exploration of five brine lithium blocks in the South American country.Officials said the environmental clearance from Argentina will allow the drilling of boreholes to undertake surveys and exploratory drilling, and to ascertain the total volume of the critical mineral available for extraction.Talking to reporters, mines secretary Piyush Goyal said production from these blocks is expected to begin in 2029. He also said the govt is working on a scheme for processing critical minerals, which is at an advanced stage of finalisation.KABIL had signed an exploration and development agreement with a state-owned enterprise of Argentina’s Catamarca province to help India strengthen lithium supplies while developing the lithium mining and downstream sectors in both countries.India is also exploring investment opportunities in lithium projects in Brazil, Canada and Australia.Speaking to reporters, Goyal said India is unable to import lithium available abroad due to the absence of a domestic processing value chain.“The scheme for processing of the critical mineral value chain is at an advanced stage,” he said, adding that details will be shared once it is approved. Lithium is an important raw material for batteries. The scheme is expected to enhance the resilience of EV and storage batteries in the country.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 MediaVideos’Chokepoints Now A Global Anxiety’: Jaishankar Invokes West Asia Crisis At Indian Ocean ConferenceMathura: Boat Carrying Devotees Capsizes In Yamuna; 10 Bodies Recovered, Rescue Ops OnQatar Assures Reliable Energy Supply To India Amid West Asia Crisis After Hardeep Puri’s Doha VisitPakistan-ISI Spy Network Busted: 11 Arrested For Recce Of Military Sites Across North IndiaCentre Notifies CAPF General Administration Act 2026; Families, Retired Officers Protest in DelhiJustice Yashwant Varma Resigns Amid Cash Row — Why He Stepped Down On Day Of Impeachment Defence’Win A War Without Firing?’ CDS Anil Chauhan Explains Shift From Battlefield To Perception WarfareExercise Brahmastra: Indian army’s first firing from the AH-64E Apache attack helicoptersMarco Rubio’s India Visit Next Month After Talks With Vikram Misri in WashingtonTelangana HC Grants Pawan Khera One Week Bail In FIR By Himanta Sarma’s Wife123Photostories4 high-profile business family feuds that made headlines globally5 things that make Bandhavgarh National Park irresistible to nature loversFrom Yashasvi Jaiswal-Maddie Hamilton to Hardik Pandya-Mahieka Sharma: 5 Indian cricketers and their rumoured girlfriendsGold or platinum with diamonds: Which one actually makes you look richer?Chef Sanjeev Kapoor shares secrets on how to use moong (whole, split with skin, and split skinless) for maximum benefitsShubman Gill’s new house in Juhu, Mumbai is a ₹20 crore luxury apartment with sea views, full-floor privacy and luxury amenitiesWant love that lasts? 5 phrases that can save your relationshipChild’s roti and sugar for school lunch goes viral: 13 school tiffin meals that all 90s kids can relate to10 stunning gates that reflect the beauty of Indian architectureThat constant throat clearing isn’t just a habit: What it could reveal about acid reflux and how to manage it123Hot PicksIran war ceasefirePAN Card application 2026Purple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingVijayKerala Missing StudentTiger WoodsTelangana Triple MurderUS stock marketPAN Card application 2026Bhojshala disputeLaker Injury UpdatesSchool Holidays in AprilChar Dham Yatra 2026 IPL 2026: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi blitz scripts history, powers Rajasthan Royals to… | Cricket News Piyush Goyal holds talks with Kuwait, UAE, GCC to restore trade flows, energy supplies; exporters face disruption 4 high-profile business family feuds that made headlines globally Nvidia VP Bryan Catanzaro: My team, which uses AI very deeply in their work, has a big complaint that …