VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html Jun 24, 2026, 03:51 IST India, US look to seal trade deal before ‘10% tariff’ expiry BTS star Jungkook’s stalker faces deportation from South Korea; woman handed a suspended prison sentence Libra Horoscope Today, June 24, 2026: Do not waste your time trying to satisfy everyone Sebi for celebrity brand endorsements for MFs ‘India needs speed, not just ease of doing business’ Infosys sees $300-400billion AI opportunity by 2030 Tom Cruise looks back at 46-year Hollywood career; drops new ‘Digger’ footage and trailer release date – WATCH Cancer Horoscope Today, June 24, 2026: There are signs of money coming from hidden or less obvious sources Q-commerce growth: Flipkart, Amazon bet on large base Updated: Jun 24, 2026, 03:09 IST Gemini Horoscope Today, June 24, 2026: Luck leans in your favour today Overseas branches can lend to NRIs for deposits in India Sensex slides 900 points as global tech sell-off weighs When breath turned pungent mid-sleep: Ammonia leak survivors recount ordeal Square Yards turns unicorn with 900 crore fundraise After separation from Suraj Nambiar, Mouni Roy opens up about forgiveness, healing, moving on: ‘I’m not calling the person evil but…’ Leo Horoscope Today, June 24, 2026: This is not the right time to invest in a new venture Henry David Thoreau Quote: Quote of the Day by Henry David Thoreau, “What a man thinks of himself, that it is which determines, or rather indicates….” Updated: Jun 24, 2026, 02:33 IST Diabetes care: First drug to delay onset of type 1 diabetes made available on NHS Virgo Horoscope Today, June 24, 2026: A strong day for saving and sensible investment Indians the second largest group to seek US citizenship will be impacted by proposed application-fee hike Ishowspeed: Watch: IShowSpeed loses it as Cristiano Ronaldo scores his first goal of the 2026 World Cup Revolutionary Cell Rejuvenation Therapy in Humans: The Future of Aging Treatment | Xqc Twitch Suspension: xQc suspended from Twitch after FIFA World Cup 2026 copyright claim explained Ladakh bandh to protest SRINAGAR: A month after talks between Ladakh groups and a Union home ministry (MHA) panel in Delhi, the Union Territory observed Tuesday a complete shutdown against the Centre’s alleged backtracking on understandings reached during the parleys.Businesses across Leh and Kargil remained closed as large numbers of people gathered to hear functionaries of Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), the region’s two main political groups that had called the bandh.The groups have alleged that draft minutes of the May 22 meeting shown to LAB co-chairman Chering Dorjay Lakrook omitted an agreement on a proposed legislative body with authority over the bureaucracy as well as constitutional safeguards for Ladakh through a provision similar to Article 371.LAB and KDA have warned that if the “two essentials” are not reflected in the final minutes, they would return to their original demand of “full statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh”. Sonam Wangchuk, LAB member and environmentalist, was part of the May talks, described later by both groups as “historic”.This concern was raised Tuesday at Leh’s Polo Ground by speakers from LAB and other groups before a gathering of around 7,000 people. The other groups present were Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA), Ladakh Gonpa Association (LGA), Anjuman Imamia, Anjuman Moin-ul-Islam and representatives of the Christian community.The speakers also highlighted other worries, including a proposed excise policy change to allow free liquor sales throughout Ladakh, privatisation of Ladakh Power Development Department (LPDD), land and tourism-related issues.LAB co-chairman Lakrook claims he had pointed out what he described as “omissions” in the draft minutes of the May talks and sought corrections, but the revised minutes were not released or sent back to him.Several rounds of talks have been held with the Centre on Ladakh since 2023. The process stopped after four people were killed and over 80 injured on Sept 24, 2025, in alleged police firing on protesters in Leh demanding statehood. LAB’s Wangchuk was accused of inciting the protesters, arrested, charged under NSA and kept in Jodhpur jail. The Centre revoked his NSA detention in March this year.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Protectors Became Predators’: Dharmendra Pradhan Reacts To NEET Paper Leak Row, Student SuicidesTMC Expels Firhad Hakim, Arup Roy And Six Others As Mamata Cracks Down On Rebel CampUpto 80% Jump in Green Card Fee? Proposition Made; What Would Be Indians’ Stake?’Pakistan’s Desperate Attempt To Deflect’: India Snubs Khawaja Asif’s ‘War Over Indus’ RemarkAliganj Fire: Jyoti’s Brother Alleges Corruption, Seeks Murder Charges Against OfficialsMaharashtra RTI Rules 2026 Under Scrutiny: Anna Hazare Demands Changes; Signals Possible Strike’We Expect…’: India Reacts To Alleged Desecration Of Lord Ram Photo In BangladeshLucknow Fire: 15 Dead, No NOC, One Exit — India’s Decade-Long Fire Safety Failure ExplainedPune’s Ketan Agarwal’s Death Was No Accident: Police | Fiancée & Alleged Lover Arrested For MurderMinority Affairs MoS George Kurian Resigns; BJP Veteran’s Exit Sparks Kerala Political Buzz | Watch123PhotostoriesFrom Sanjeev Kapoor, Vikas Khanna to Harpal Singh Sokhi; Net worth of these celebrity chefsWhat lives inside your gut could shape your immunity, mood, and disease risk, and it could hold the blueprint to better healthFrom Rajgad to Lohagad: 5 must-visit forts in Maharashtra during the monsoon and what travellers should knowHow to train your brain to be happier: 10 simple habits that actually workEvery child needs these 4 social skills before age 10 to feel confident and includedWhat’s attracting tourists to Kodaikanal? 7 reasons this hill station continues to charm travellersSmiling depression: Doctor explains how some people use happiness as a mask10 classic Anglo-Saxon baby names that survived centuries of changeBigg Boss Malayalam 8: Celebrities netizens wish to see on the showLong-lived families reveal a rare genetic clue to healthy ageing; scientists say it may help explain why some people stay disease-free for years longer123Hot PicksIPL tradeGold rate todayCUET UG Result 2026Telangana school bandhCBSE 12th revaluationMaldivian wisdomSpanish proverbMalay proverbPortuguese proverbTop TrendingGeorge KurianUS-Iran WarKunal ShahFIFA World Cup 2026Stock market crashCUET UG Result 2026Ketan AgarwalGold rate todayDelhi weatherMumbai rain R Madhavan reacts to receiving Padma Shri: ‘I will cherish for the rest of my life’; son Vedant, Priyanka, Preity, Namrata congratulate him Taurus Horoscope Today, June 24, 2026: For business people, expansion ideas have promise Ketan Agrawal murder: Lohagad trek ruse, hidden boyfriend and the one detail that exposed Siya Goyal’s story Spanish proverb of the day on ingratitude, betrayal and expectation: ‘Raise crows and they will pluck out your eyes’ Jun 24, 2026, 01:25 IST Aries Horoscope Today, June 24, 2026: If you’re already in love, this is a warm day to speak up Poland donor’s stem cells save Kashmir boy suffering from rare immune condition Kylian Mbappé’s France vs Iraq World Cup highlight gets xQc suspended as FIFA issues copyright strike Bank of India wins Rs 100 crore case against Nirav Modi Ram Charan heaps praise on Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar franchise, calls it ‘phenomenal’: ‘It has brought the country together’ A tale of two deals: Trump’s ‘infinity’ inspections meets Iran’s ‘not so fast’ Afghan proverb of the day on why force is overrated: ‘He who can be killed by sugar should not be killed by poison’ India ranks 13th globally in QS World Future Skills Index 2027, emerges as a leading AI-ready economy Citroen Aircross Comfort edition launched: Here’s what’s special After annus horribilis 2025, Indian DGCA to come under US FAA scanner this November Horoscope Today: Daily astrological predictions for June 24, 2026 Shedeur Sanders trade rumors: Cleveland Browns Year 2 QB’s availability inquired amid quarterback competition with Deshaun Watson NEW DELHI: National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding with the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) to establish a research centre on transportation, mobility and logistics.The centre, to be set up at the NCAER, will be India’s first permanent and independent research centre dedicated to the economics of transportation, mobility and logistics, an official statement said.The Centre will serve as a dedicated platform for undertaking applied economic research on transportation, mobility and logistics, with a focus on generating actionable insights to support long-term planning, investment and policy formulation in the road and transport sector.It will undertake policy-relevant research across a wide range of thematic areas, including National Highway economics, freight logistics, modal integration, regional economic impacts of National Highway investments, toll policy, asset monetization, road safety interventions, technology adoption in National Highway operations and maintenance.The Centre will be anchored by an Advisory Committee comprising leading economists, transportation specialists, public policy experts and eminent academicians, along with NHAI’s Member (Finance) and the Director General, NCAER.The statement said the centre is founded with a contribution from NHAI, with NCAER committed to mobilising contributions from other allied institutions and partners.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Protectors Became Predators’: Dharmendra Pradhan Reacts To NEET Paper Leak Row, Student SuicidesTMC Expels Firhad Hakim, Arup Roy And Six Others As Mamata Cracks Down On Rebel CampUpto 80% Jump in Green Card Fee? Proposition Made; What Would Be Indians’ Stake?’Pakistan’s Desperate Attempt To Deflect’: India Snubs Khawaja Asif’s ‘War Over Indus’ RemarkAliganj Fire: Jyoti’s Brother Alleges Corruption, Seeks Murder Charges Against OfficialsMaharashtra RTI Rules 2026 Under Scrutiny: Anna Hazare Demands Changes; Signals Possible Strike’We Expect…’: India Reacts To Alleged Desecration Of Lord Ram Photo In BangladeshLucknow Fire: 15 Dead, No NOC, One Exit — India’s Decade-Long Fire Safety Failure ExplainedPune’s Ketan Agarwal’s Death Was No Accident: Police | Fiancée & Alleged Lover Arrested For MurderMinority Affairs MoS George Kurian Resigns; BJP Veteran’s Exit Sparks Kerala Political Buzz | Watch123PhotostoriesWhat lives inside your gut could shape your immunity, mood, and disease risk, and it could hold the blueprint to better healthFrom Rajgad to Lohagad: 5 must-visit forts in Maharashtra during the monsoon and what travellers should knowHow to train your brain to be happier: 10 simple habits that actually workEvery child needs these 4 social skills before age 10 to feel confident and includedWhat’s attracting tourists to Kodaikanal? 7 reasons this hill station continues to charm travellersSmiling depression: Doctor explains how some people use happiness as a mask10 classic Anglo-Saxon baby names that survived centuries of changeBigg Boss Malayalam 8: Celebrities netizens wish to see on the showLong-lived families reveal a rare genetic clue to healthy ageing; scientists say it may help explain why some people stay disease-free for years longer7 schools where India’s richest send their kids123Hot PicksIPL tradeGold rate todayCUET UG Result 2026Telangana school bandhCBSE 12th revaluationMaldivian wisdomSpanish proverbMalay proverbPortuguese proverbTop TrendingGeorge KurianUS-Iran WarKunal ShahFIFA World Cup 2026Stock market crashCUET UG Result 2026Ketan AgarwalGold rate todayDelhi weatherMumbai rain Days before fatal fall, Ketan Agarwal was at same Lohagad spot: Father says Siya Goyal’s ‘snake’ story hid an earlier attack Supreme Court order on Green Card holders: Border officials can deny re-entry of permanent citizens if they are accused of crime Under the plan, heritage ghat structures, temples and shrines will be repaired and retrofitted using traditional construction techniques NEW DELHI: Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Kolkata (SMPK) and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to restore and redevelop the historic Kumartuli Ghat riverfront in Kolkata, with work on the Rs 10-crore project set to be completed before this year’s Durga Puja. The initiative aims to revive the culturally significant stretch along the Hooghly River while improving infrastructure, accessibility and visitor facilities.The redevelopment will cover a 300-metre section between Kumartuli Ghat and Champatala Ghat, an area closely linked to Bengal’s centuries-old idol-making tradition. The project will be carried out in phases to minimise disruption, particularly during the Durga Puja season, when the riverfront becomes a focal point for artisans, devotees and visitors.Under the plan, heritage ghat structures, temples and shrines will be repaired and retrofitted using traditional construction techniques to preserve the area’s historic and spiritual character. Authorities will also strengthen riverbank protection, upgrade ritual platforms and create pedestrian-friendly pathways with universal access to the river’s edge.The redevelopment will introduce dedicated spaces for artisans, cultural programmes, boating activities and leisure. Viewing decks, food courts, souvenir stalls and community toilets will also be added to improve the experience for residents and tourists alike.Environmental sustainability forms a key part of the project. Plans include green embankments, native riverine plantations and sacred groves inspired by Vrindavan. Architectural lighting will be installed across the ghats and Kumartuli facades, while first-aid facilities, surveillance systems and other safety measures will be introduced to ensure better management of the precinct.”Kumartuli is Kolkata’s cultural soul. Through this partnership with APSEZ Limited, we are not just restoring infrastructure but reviving a space woven into West Bengal’s identity. The project will make the ghat safer, cleaner, and more welcoming for all,” Rathendra Raman, SMPK Chairman, said.Kumartuli occupies a unique place in Bengal’s cultural landscape as one of the world’s most recognised centres for idol-making. Every year, thousands of Durga idols crafted in the neighbourhood are transported from the eastern bank of the Hooghly River to puja pandals across Kolkata, other districts of West Bengal, and overseas destinations including the United States and several European countries.The riverfront’s significance has grown further since Kolkata’s Durga Puja was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. For generations, Kumartuli’s artisans, rituals and community life have remained deeply connected to the Hooghly, making the restoration project both a heritage conservation effort and a modern urban renewal initiative.Once completed, the revamped Kumartuli Ghat is expected to function as a vibrant public space that combines Bengal’s artistic and religious traditions with improved civic infrastructure and visitor amenities.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Protectors Became Predators’: Dharmendra Pradhan Reacts To NEET Paper Leak Row, Student SuicidesTMC Expels Firhad Hakim, Arup Roy And Six Others As Mamata Cracks Down On Rebel CampUpto 80% Jump in Green Card Fee? Proposition Made; What Would Be Indians’ Stake?’Pakistan’s Desperate Attempt To Deflect’: India Snubs Khawaja Asif’s ‘War Over Indus’ RemarkAliganj Fire: Jyoti’s Brother Alleges Corruption, Seeks Murder Charges Against OfficialsMaharashtra RTI Rules 2026 Under Scrutiny: Anna Hazare Demands Changes; Signals Possible Strike’We Expect…’: India Reacts To Alleged Desecration Of Lord Ram Photo In BangladeshLucknow Fire: 15 Dead, No NOC, One Exit — India’s Decade-Long Fire Safety Failure ExplainedPune’s Ketan Agarwal’s Death Was No Accident: Police | Fiancée & Alleged Lover Arrested For MurderMinority Affairs MoS George Kurian Resigns; BJP Veteran’s Exit Sparks Kerala Political Buzz | Watch123PhotostoriesWhat lives inside your gut could shape your immunity, mood, and disease risk, and it could hold the blueprint to better healthFrom Rajgad to Lohagad: 5 must-visit forts in Maharashtra during the monsoon and what travellers should knowHow to train your brain to be happier: 10 simple habits that actually workEvery child needs these 4 social skills before age 10 to feel confident and includedWhat’s attracting tourists to Kodaikanal? 7 reasons this hill station continues to charm travellersSmiling depression: Doctor explains how some people use happiness as a mask10 classic Anglo-Saxon baby names that survived centuries of changeBigg Boss Malayalam 8: Celebrities netizens wish to see on the showLong-lived families reveal a rare genetic clue to healthy ageing; scientists say it may help explain why some people stay disease-free for years longer7 schools where India’s richest send their kids123Hot PicksIPL tradeGold rate todayCUET UG Result 2026Telangana school bandhCBSE 12th revaluationMaldivian wisdomSpanish proverbMalay proverbPortuguese proverbTop TrendingGeorge KurianUS-Iran WarKunal ShahFIFA World Cup 2026Stock market crashCUET UG Result 2026Ketan AgarwalGold rate todayDelhi weatherMumbai rain Qatar Emir dials PM Modi after Ras Laffan blast kills 12 Indians Quote of the day by Plato: “There is nothing more divine than education. It is only through education that…” – the ancient idea that learning makes us fully human | World News