VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html China to enforce new ethnic unity law globally, says it has right to target ‘separatists’ Jun 24, 2026, 19:54 IST Rajasthan PTET 2026 result out on June 25: Here’s the link and steps to check scores July 2026 Hollywood OTT releases Maharera: Can homebuyers get a refund if a builder changes the home’s design after booking? MahaRERA’s latest ruling explained Stock market today: Which are top gainers and losers on NSE & BSE on June 24? Check list ‘Say sorry’: How an Indian woman confronted Bangladeshi waiter for making anti-India remarks in Italy in viral video TS SSC Supply result 2026: Telangana Class 10 supplementary scores likely to be released this week at bse.telangana.gov.in Padma Bhushan Alka Yagnik is suffering from rare hearing disorder, here’s all you need to know about it as fans wish for her recovery 10 beautiful baby girl names inspired by ancient goddesses and their powerful meanings Quote of the day by renowned quantum physicist Niels Bohr: “An expert is a person who has made all the mistakes that…” Japan’s second richest man SoftBank’s Masayoshi Son junks his plan to retire in sixties; says: ‘I have become greedier and would …’ UK grooming gang inquiry: London, Bradford, Keighley and Oldham named as first investigation locations | World News India’s junior space minister Jitendra Singh urged BRICS nations to forge a ‘Brics Space Economy,’ BENGALURU: Calling space the next frontier of global economic growth, junior space minister Jitendra Singh Wednesday urged Brics nations to work together to build a “Brics Space Economy”, arguing that no single country can shape the future of the sector alone.Addressing the valedictory session of the Brics Heads of Space Agencies (Hosa) meeting in Bengaluru, Singh said the bloc possesses the scientific expertise, technological capabilities and industrial strength needed to emerge as a major force in the rapidly expanding global space economy.“The future of the space economy will not be shaped by nations working in isolation. It will be shaped by partnerships, shared innovation and collective ambition,” Singh said. “Brics countries have the potential to become one of the strongest pillars of this emerging global space ecosystem.”Isro chairman V Narayanan said: “A total of 26 delegates from 10 countries participated. There were extensive discussions on the utilisation of the Brics Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation (RSSC) for the socio-economic benefit of member countries, including applications in disaster management, climate change monitoring, and other areas.” “We also discussed debris-free mission management systems to ensure the long-term sustainability of space activities. It was a very productive meeting. Along with the five Brics nations, five more countries were part of this initiative,” he added.The two-day meeting, hosted by Isro under India’s Brics Chairship 2026, brought together heads of space agencies and senior officials from Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates.At a time when countries are increasingly looking to space-based technologies for economic and developmental gains, Singh positioned cooperation among Brics members as a pathway to innovation, investment and sustainable growth. He said the grouping, which accounts for a significant share of the world’s population and economic output, is uniquely placed to leverage space technology for addressing common challenges.“Challenges such as climate change, natural disasters, food and water security, environmental degradation and sustainable urbanisation increasingly require collective solutions supported by advanced space technologies,” he said.The discussions focused on strengthening existing cooperation mechanisms and identifying new areas of collaboration. Delegates reviewed progress on the RSSC, which enables satellite data sharing among member nations, and discussed expanding participation of newer Brics members in ongoing initiatives.A major theme of the meeting was the need for stronger institutional frameworks. Singh expressed confidence that deliberations on the proposed Brics Space Council would provide continuity and momentum to future cooperation efforts.He also called for the partnership to evolve beyond dialogue and information-sharing. “Brics nations must move beyond consultation and work towards co-development, co-innovation and co-creation. By bringing together our scientists, engineers, industries, startups and young innovators, we can develop solutions for global challenges, create new economic opportunities and build a stronger framework for scientific advancement and shared prosperity,” Singh said. Sustainability also featured prominently in the discussions. With growing concerns over orbital congestion and space debris, participating nations examined measures to promote debris-free missions and responsible space operations. Singh stressed that the long-term future of space activities depends on preserving outer space as a safe and sustainable domain, calling for greater transparency, cooperation and capacity-building among nations.The meeting concluded with India reaffirming its commitment to deeper engagement with Brics partners.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorChethan KumarChethan Kumar is a Senior Assistant Editor with the Times of India. Aside from specialising in Space & Science, he has reported extensively on varied topics, with special focus on defence, policy and data stories. He has covered multiple elections, too. As a young democracy grows out of adolescence, Chethan feels, there are reels of tales emerging which need to be captured. To do this, he alternates between the mundane goings-on of the Common Man and the wonder-filled worlds of scientists and scamsters, politicians and soldiers. In a career spanning nearly 18 years, he has reported from multiple datelines — Houston, Florida, Kochi, Hyderabad, Chennai, Sriharikota (AP), NH-1 (J&K Highway), New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Raichur, Bhatkal, Mysuru, Chamarajanagar, to name a few — but is based out of Bengaluru, India’s science capital that also hosts the ISRO HQ.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Papa, Save Me’: 10-Year-Old Abducted, Raped And Killed In Delhi; Chilling Details EmergeOne Gram Gold Ring For Every Newborn? CM Vijay’s Big Welfare Move DecodedCong Questions Trade Strategy As India-US Agreement Enters Final Negotiation PhaseAmerica’s Cancer Drug Crisis: How India Could Help Prevent Treatment DisruptionsIndia Set To Restart ₹915 Crore RITES Project Railway Coach Exports To BangladeshAdani Mundra Airport Starts Commercial Operations As First Star Air Flight Lands From GoaNew Book Reveals Trump Rejected Proposal To Send Indian Peacekeepers To UkraineHyderabad Gets ‘Donald Trump Avenue’ As Telangana Renames Road Outside US ConsulateSindhi Community Raises Concerns Over Utilisation Of 200 Kg Silver Donation Made For Ram MandirIndia Hits Back At Pakistan At UN, Reaffirms Jammu & Kashmir Is Strictly An Internal Matter123PhotostoriesRinging in your ears after a day in the sun? Doctor explains the surprising heatwave-tinnitus connection10 beautiful baby girl names inspired by ancient goddesses and their powerful meanings5 Kapoor couples who are setting serious marriage goalsRice water vs rosemary oil vs onion juice: Which viral hair growth hack actually works?Gardening ideas for small balconies: 5 Smart ways to create a green oasis in limited spaceJuly 2026 Hollywood OTT releases: ‘Enola Holmes 3’ to ‘Heartstopper Forever’Psychology says the happiest couples share one unexpected habit; and no, it’s not saying ‘I love you’Psychology says Indian women who love staying at home often share these 11 unique traitsSara Ali Khan gives Princess Diana’s ‘Revenge Dress’ a 2026 upgrade in front of the British royaltyLove desserts? Psychology says it could say something interesting about your personality123Hot PicksPunjab police admit cardDevina GahlotDonald Trump avenueMumbai rainsCBSE 12th revaluationBihar school timingsSpanish proverbAfghan proverbPortuguese proverbTop TrendingDelhi Rape MurderUS-Iran WarITR filing 2025-26FIFA World Cup 2026England vs Ghana FIFA World Cup ResultICAI CA Inter May resultLucknow coaching fireGold rate todayWho was Ketan AgarwalMumbai rain ‘Endless memes and reels,’ Akshay Kumar says making a comedy film is difficult in the time of social media: ‘Better to make fun of yourself than others’ Arvind Vekaria Death News: Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah’s Tanmay Vekaria’s father Arvind Vekaria passes away; CINTAA mourns veteran theatre artist Evening news wrap BJP accuses Rahul Gandhi of amplifying Pakistan’s Rafale claims during Operation Sindoor.Iran invites PM Modi to attend late Ayatollah Khamenei’s funeral ceremonies in July.Kolkata warehouse collapse rescue operation saves 21 people; three dead, several trapped.Sensex jumps 791 points as global cues, trade hopes lift Indian markets.Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s younger brother Ashirvad scores a stunning 168-run century.Here are the top stories of the day:BJP accuses Rahul of echoing Pakistan’s Rafale narrativeThe BJP attacked Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, alleging he amplified claims that mirrored Pakistan’s propaganda during Operation Sindoor. BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya said Gandhi questioned the government over reports of Rafale losses instead of seeking evidence from Islamabad. Read full storyIran invites PM Modi to Khamenei funeral ceremoniesIranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the funeral and burial ceremonies of Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes in February. The ceremonies will be held from July 4 to July 9 across Tehran, Qom and Mashhad. Read full story Watch Cong Questions Trade Strategy As India-US Agreement Enters Final Negotiation Phase21 rescued, three dead in Kolkata warehouse collapseAn under-construction warehouse collapsed in Kolkata’s Taratala area, trapping several workers under debris. Officials said 21 people have been rescued so far, with three confirmed dead and nine undergoing treatment at SSKM Hospital. Read full storySensex, Nifty surge nearly 1% on global cues, trade deal hopesIndian benchmark indices rebounded sharply on Wednesday, with the Sensex rising 791 points to 76,991 and the Nifty50 gaining 198 points to close at 24,022. The rally was supported by a recovery in South Korean markets, easing concerns over rate hikes, softer crude oil prices and optimism over an India-US trade deal. Read full storyVaibhav Sooryavanshi celebrates younger brother Ashirvad’s big centuryYoung cricket star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi celebrated his younger brother Ashirvad’s impressive batting display after the 10-year-old smashed a 168-run knock off 119 balls. Vaibhav, currently with India’s squad for the Ireland series, shared his brother’s scorecard on Instagram, earning praise from fans. Read full storyGet 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 MediaVideosOne Gram Gold Ring For Every Newborn? CM Vijay’s Big Welfare Move DecodedCong Questions Trade Strategy As India-US Agreement Enters Final Negotiation PhaseAmerica’s Cancer Drug Crisis: How India Could Help Prevent Treatment DisruptionsIndia Set To Restart ₹915 Crore RITES Project Railway Coach Exports To BangladeshAdani Mundra Airport Starts Commercial Operations As First Star Air Flight Lands From GoaNew Book Reveals Trump Rejected Proposal To Send Indian Peacekeepers To UkraineHyderabad Gets ‘Donald Trump Avenue’ As Telangana Renames Road Outside US ConsulateSindhi Community Raises Concerns Over Utilisation Of 200 Kg Silver Donation Made For Ram MandirIndia Hits Back At Pakistan At UN, Reaffirms Jammu & Kashmir Is Strictly An Internal MatterMumbai Faces Widespread Waterlogging As Delayed Monsoon Arrival Brings Heavy Rain And Disruptions123PhotostoriesRice water vs rosemary oil vs onion juice: Which viral hair growth hack actually works?Gardening ideas for small balconies: 5 Smart ways to create a green oasis in limited spaceJuly 2026 Hollywood OTT releases: ‘Enola Holmes 3’ to ‘Heartstopper Forever’Psychology says the happiest couples share one unexpected habit; and no, it’s not saying ‘I love you’Psychology says Indian women who love staying at home often share these 11 unique traitsSara Ali Khan gives Princess Diana’s ‘Revenge Dress’ a 2026 upgrade in front of the British royaltyLove desserts? Psychology says it could say something interesting about your personalityParenting looks completely different here: 5 countries that raise independent kids from an early ageWhat is Snake Soup, does it have venom and reasons why Chinese still consume itMumbai–Bengaluru Vande Bharat corridor: 5 destinations worth exploring along the route123Hot PicksPunjab police admit cardDevina GahlotDonald Trump avenueMumbai rainsCBSE 12th revaluationBihar school timingsSpanish proverbAfghan proverbPortuguese proverbTop TrendingDelhi Rape MurderUS-Iran WarITR filing 2025-26FIFA World Cup 2026England vs Ghana FIFA World Cup ResultICAI CA Inter May resultLucknow coaching fireGold rate todayWho was Ketan AgarwalMumbai rain Jun 24, 2026, 19:15 IST Oil math: OPEC’s global crude share could slip from 35% to 31% without UAE ‘Extremist Pakistani song’ at Maharashtra school event: NHRC issues notice to CBSE Rs 3 crore Batmobile, luxury decor and 4,000-year-old antique: A tour of director Ahmed Khan’s lavish Mumbai home Most fuel-efficient CNG Cars: Maruti Celerio, Exter & more Israel’s actions against Gaza children amount to genocidal acts, UN says “My personal relationship with Suvendu Adhikari was very good,” said Mahua Moitra. NEW DELHI: Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mahua Moitra heaping praise on Suvendu Adhikari, who is her party chief Mamata Banerjee’s arch nemesis, has raised eyebrows as the mass exodus of leaders from the “sinking” TMC continues to shape West Bengal politics.Mahua’s “Suvendu supported me a lot” remark triggered a buzz in political circles as some of Mamata’s loyalists, feeling “blue”, have ditched the party ever since Bengal witnessed a landmark political shift, with the BJP bulldozing the once-dominant TMC in the country’s key non-Hindi-speaking state.”My personal relationship with Suvendu was very good. When we were in the same party (TMC) together, he supported me a lot. When I contested from Karimpur for the first time, no one came to campaign for me. Even today, you can see all the photos of him with us,” Mahua Moitra said in an interview.She further said: “In 2014, I was supposed to get a Lok Sabha ticket, but it didn’t happen, and I cried all night. It was Suvendu who supported me. Later, he joined the BJP, and we don’t speak anymore because he is in a different political party. But no one can forget our personal relationship.”Her remark spread like wildfire as she is considered one of the most firebrand leaders in Didi’s party and has incessantly been breathing down the BJP’s neck on the range of issues.However, as the statement began caching the eyeballs on the internet, she was quick to scorch the speculation, saying the chunk of an interview was ” cherry picked” and that Suvendu was “no angel”. “Yes it is cherry picked pls listen to the full interview. Suvendu is no angel but he had the guts to leave & fight on their ticket unlike these traitors. And i had a good relationship with him while he was in our party but have never spoken to him since he left . Why make these comments without listening to the full interview?” she wrote in a reply to a user on X.Amid the cloud suspicions and test of loyalties, the battle for control of the TMC reached the Election Commission (EC) on Monday, with both the Mamata Banerjee camp and the rival Ritabrata Banerjee faction submitting separate lists of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) in support of their respective claims.In a communication to the EC, Mamata Banerjee outlined the party’s organisational structure “as on June 20, 2026”, which her supporters described as the officially recognised hierarchy of the Trinamool Congress.The list identifies Mamata Banerjee as the party’s chairperson, Subrata Bakshi as vice-president, and Abhishek Banerjee as national general secretary and leader of the party in the Lok Sabha. Rajya Sabha MPs Derek O’Brien and Dola Sen, along with treasurer Subhasish Chakraborty, were also named as members of the NWC.The dissident faction, however, submitted a separate list to the poll body, naming four-time Howrah MLA Arup Ray as chairperson in place of Mamata Banerjee.The rebel group has argued that under Article 20 of the party constitution, a National Working Committee must be reconstituted at least once every three years. According to the faction, the last NWC was formed on February 12, 2022, and its term expired on February 11, 2025.Rejecting that contention, a senior Trinamool MP said the party’s official records already establish the legitimacy of the existing committee.“The EC website has the NWC list submitted in 2024. Also, the Trinamool constitution, also uploaded on the EC website, clearly spells out the role and function of the chairperson, and that she can never be replaced,” the MP said. 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 MediaVideosOne Gram Gold Ring For Every Newborn? CM Vijay’s Big Welfare Move DecodedCong Questions Trade Strategy As India-US Agreement Enters Final Negotiation PhaseAmerica’s Cancer Drug Crisis: How India Could Help Prevent Treatment DisruptionsIndia Set To Restart ₹915 Crore RITES Project Railway Coach Exports To BangladeshAdani Mundra Airport Starts Commercial Operations As First Star Air Flight Lands From GoaNew Book Reveals Trump Rejected Proposal To Send Indian Peacekeepers To UkraineHyderabad Gets ‘Donald Trump Avenue’ As Telangana Renames Road Outside US ConsulateSindhi Community Raises Concerns Over Utilisation Of 200 Kg Silver Donation Made For Ram MandirIndia Hits Back At Pakistan At UN, Reaffirms Jammu & Kashmir Is Strictly An Internal MatterMumbai Faces Widespread Waterlogging As Delayed Monsoon Arrival Brings Heavy Rain And Disruptions123PhotostoriesRice water vs rosemary oil vs onion juice: Which viral hair growth hack actually works?Gardening ideas for small balconies: 5 Smart ways to create a green oasis in limited spaceJuly 2026 Hollywood OTT releases: ‘Enola Holmes 3’ to ‘Heartstopper Forever’Psychology says the happiest couples share one unexpected habit; and no, it’s not saying ‘I love you’Psychology says Indian women who love staying at home often share these 11 unique traitsSara Ali Khan gives Princess Diana’s ‘Revenge Dress’ a 2026 upgrade in front of the British royaltyLove desserts? Psychology says it could say something interesting about your personalityParenting looks completely different here: 5 countries that raise independent kids from an early ageWhat is Snake Soup, does it have venom and reasons why Chinese still consume itMumbai–Bengaluru Vande Bharat corridor: 5 destinations worth exploring along the route123Hot PicksPunjab police admit cardDevina GahlotDonald Trump avenueMumbai rainsCBSE 12th revaluationBihar school timingsSpanish proverbAfghan proverbPortuguese proverbTop TrendingDelhi Rape MurderUS-Iran WarITR filing 2025-26FIFA World Cup 2026England vs Ghana FIFA World Cup ResultICAI CA Inter May resultLucknow coaching fireGold rate todayWho was Ketan AgarwalMumbai rain UPSC ISS answer key 2026 released at upsc.gov.in: Direct link to download here ‘The Death of Robin Hood’: Hugh Jackman recalls intense mud battle; says, ‘hardest thing I’ve ever done’ Parenting: Psychology says parents who are genuinely good don’t strive for perfection; instead, they aim to be “good enough” and prioritize bonding over control Made in India, TVS-built Norton Atlas rolls out of plant: Global launch soon Mumbai local train murder: Airport cargo worker nabbed from Panvel; how argument over coach door led to stabbing ‘Putin already compromised’: Lavrov says Russia won’t bend again on Ukraine, cites talks with Trump in Alaska ‘Raja Shivaji’ OTT release date revealed: Here’s when and where to watch Riteish Deshmukh’s historical film OFFSIDE: Sir Alex Ferguson’s favourite lieutenant robs England of its roar In 1999, a farmer donated 87 acres for a park for just $10; today, the land is being sold for a data center in a deal that could bring $10 million to the city and $30 million in tax revenue | World News Updated: Jun 24, 2026, 17:54 IST Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to get a separate changing room in England: ECB reveals the reason behind it Quote of the day by Robert Downey Jr. : “She found me a snarling rescue pet, and loved me back to life. That is why I am here,” when the Iron Man star opened up about love, marriage, and the woman he credits with saving his life. Chetan didn’t pay, Ketan didn’t return: Security guard at Lohagad Fort recalls chilling moments before 400-ft fall Laura Loomer defends Usha Vance, says ‘brown Hindu woman’ gets hate for no reason: ‘I hope SLOTUS never converts’ The Alliance, India’s brainchild, was established in 2024 with the aim of conserving seven big cats NEW DELHI: Bangladesh on Wednesday joined the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) as its new member, taking the total count of member countries of this treaty-based global entity to 27.The Alliance, India’s brainchild, was established in 2024 with the aim of conserving seven big cats — tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar and puma — in coordination with other countries. Except for jaguar and puma, India is home to five big cats.Besides the founding member India, the countries that have already formally joined the IBCA as its members include Russia, Cambodia, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Armenia, Ethiopia, Mongolia, Rwanda, Angola, Myanmar and Saudi Arabia, among others.Primary objective of the IBCA, headquartered in New Delhi, is to facilitate collaboration and synergy among stakeholders, consolidating successful conservation practices and expertise to achieve the conservation of big cats at a global level.There are 95 big cat range countries having habitats of one or more big cats. While 27 out of these 95 are member countries, five others are part of the Alliance as observers.Announcing Bangladesh’s move on X, the IBCA said, “This important milestone strengthens international cooperation for the conservation of #BigCats and their habitats, and reinforces our shared commitment to safeguarding these iconic species and the ecosystems they inhabit for future generations.”Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorVishwa MohanVishwa Mohan is Senior Editor at The Times of India. He writes on environment, climate change, agriculture, water resources and clean energy, tracking policy issues and climate diplomacy. He has been covering Parliament since 2003 to see how politics shaped up domestic policy and India’s position at global platform. Before switching over to explore sustainable development issues, Vishwa had covered internal security and investigative agencies for more than a decade.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAmerica’s Cancer Drug Crisis: How India Could Help Prevent Treatment DisruptionsIndia Set To Restart ₹915 Crore RITES Project Railway Coach Exports To BangladeshAdani Mundra Airport Starts Commercial Operations As First Star Air Flight Lands From GoaNew Book Reveals Trump Rejected Proposal To Send Indian Peacekeepers To UkraineHyderabad Gets ‘Donald Trump Avenue’ As Telangana Renames Road Outside US ConsulateSindhi Community Raises Concerns Over Utilisation Of 200 Kg Silver Donation Made For Ram MandirIndia Hits Back At Pakistan At UN, Reaffirms Jammu & Kashmir Is Strictly An Internal MatterMumbai Faces Widespread Waterlogging As Delayed Monsoon Arrival Brings Heavy Rain And DisruptionsAkhilesh Yadav Says BJP Using Mohan Yadav Land Allegations To Prepare Chief Ministerial ChangesIndia-US Partnership Will Shape The Coming Decades, Says US Envoy123PhotostoriesJuly 2026 Hollywood OTT releases: ‘Enola Holmes 3’ to ‘Heartstopper Forever’Psychology says the happiest couples share one unexpected habit; and no, it’s not saying ‘I love you’Psychology says Indian women who love staying at home often share these 11 unique traitsSara Ali Khan gives Princess Diana’s ‘Revenge Dress’ a 2026 upgrade in front of the British royaltyLove desserts? Psychology says it could say something interesting about your personalityParenting looks completely different here: 5 countries that raise independent kids from an early ageWhat is Snake Soup, does it have venom and reasons why Chinese still consume itMumbai–Bengaluru Vande Bharat corridor: 5 destinations worth exploring along the routeWhat is FAFO parenting? 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NEW DELHI: Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh described Jawaharlal Nehru as the finest prime minister India has produced, while naming Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel as the country’s best prime minister who never got the opportunity to hold the office.In a wide-ranging interview with news agency PTI, Ramesh also launched a sharp attack on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), calling its members “fraudulent nationalists”, and labelled Prime Minister Narendra Modi “the master of falsehoods”.During a rapid-fire segment, the Rajya Sabha MP was asked to give one-word responses to a series of questions. When asked to identify India’s best prime minister, he replied, “undoubtedly Jawaharlal Nehru”. On who he considered the best prime minister the country could not have, Ramesh chose Sardar Patel.Asked to pick between his previous ministerial assignments, Ramesh said he preferred his stint as environment minister over rural development minister. He also favoured his role overseeing the Congress party’s communications strategy over serving as an AICC in-charge for any state.When presented with three different descriptions of himself, writer, strategist and environment conservationist, Ramesh said all were part of the same individual.”I enjoyed writing a large number of books in the last 10 years. I enjoyed researching, going to the archives. Topics that had been on my mind that I could write and which I wrote on. So each role is different. I enjoy being an MP, I enjoy raising questions on environment and I enjoy writing,” Ramesh said.The Congress general secretary also reflected on his entry into politics, crediting former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi for encouraging him to join the party full-time.Asked how his political journey began, Ramesh said, “That’s entirely because of Mr. Rajiv Gandhi you know through Mr. Sam Pitroda, we had worked with the then prime minister on technology missions and then Mr. Gandhi lost the election and in 1990 sometime Mr. Pitroda and I had spoken to him and Mr. Gandhi said come and work with us full-time for the party because elections are around the corner.””So that’s how it started and then I continued. So this is my 35th year with the Congress party,” he added.Ramesh said he had previously worked with the Rajiv Gandhi government in the Ministry of Industry and the Planning Commission, before collaborating directly with the then prime minister through Pitroda on technology missions.”So, he (Rajiv) was the inspirational figure and he was the one who encouraged a lot of younger people from non-political backgrounds. I come from a completely non-political background. So he encouraged all this and no doubt that he was the inspiration, the starting point,” Ramesh said.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 MediaVideosCong Questions Trade Strategy As India-US Agreement Enters Final Negotiation PhaseAmerica’s Cancer Drug Crisis: How India Could Help Prevent Treatment DisruptionsIndia Set To Restart ₹915 Crore RITES Project Railway Coach Exports To BangladeshAdani Mundra Airport Starts Commercial Operations As First Star Air Flight Lands From GoaNew Book Reveals Trump Rejected Proposal To Send Indian Peacekeepers To UkraineHyderabad Gets ‘Donald Trump Avenue’ As Telangana Renames Road Outside US ConsulateSindhi Community Raises Concerns Over Utilisation Of 200 Kg Silver Donation Made For Ram MandirIndia Hits Back At Pakistan At UN, Reaffirms Jammu & Kashmir Is Strictly An Internal MatterMumbai Faces Widespread Waterlogging As Delayed Monsoon Arrival Brings Heavy Rain And DisruptionsAkhilesh Yadav Says BJP Using Mohan Yadav Land Allegations To Prepare Chief Ministerial Changes123PhotostoriesGardening ideas for small balconies: 5 Smart ways to create a green oasis in limited spaceJuly 2026 Hollywood OTT releases: ‘Enola Holmes 3’ to ‘Heartstopper Forever’Psychology says the happiest couples share one unexpected habit; and no, it’s not saying ‘I love you’Psychology says Indian women who love staying at home often share these 11 unique traitsSara Ali Khan gives Princess Diana’s ‘Revenge Dress’ a 2026 upgrade in front of the British royaltyLove desserts? Psychology says it could say something interesting about your personalityParenting looks completely different here: 5 countries that raise independent kids from an early ageWhat is Snake Soup, does it have venom and reasons why Chinese still consume itMumbai–Bengaluru Vande Bharat corridor: 5 destinations worth exploring along the routeWhat is FAFO parenting? The viral trend that every Indian parent has already been doing without knowing it123Hot PicksPunjab police admit cardDevina GahlotDonald Trump avenueMumbai rainsCBSE 12th revaluationBihar school timingsSpanish proverbAfghan proverbPortuguese proverbTop TrendingDelhi Rape MurderUS-Iran WarITR filing 2025-26FIFA World Cup 2026England vs Ghana FIFA World Cup ResultICAI CA Inter May resultLucknow coaching fireGold rate todayWho was Ketan AgarwalMumbai rain Jun 24, 2026, 17:53 IST NEST 2026 result released at nestexam.in: Direct link to check your merit rank here When Prakash Raj mocked ‘Dhurandhar 2’ and took swipe at Allu Arjun, Mahesh Babu and Jr NTR: ‘I am far from Dhurandhar, are you too?’ Builder used homebuyer’s money as interest-free capital for 10 years, consumer commission orders Rs 5.25 lakh refund Sharjah announces new parking timings, paid hours extended to midnight from July 1 | World News