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Kumaraswamy Invites Shivakumar to Discuss Bidadi Township Controversy
Bengaluru, June 26: The political controversy surrounding the proposed Greater Bengaluru Integrated Township Project in Bidadi continued on Thursday. Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy has written to Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar for the second time, inviting him to visit Bairamangala village on June 27 to engage directly with the affected ... Read more Kumaraswamy Invites Shivakumar to Discuss Bidadi Township Controversy
Shocking Triple Murder Case in Bengaluru: Daughter Claims She Was Treated Like a Prisoner by Mother
Bengaluru, June 26: In a shocking triple murder case in Bengaluru, a daughter arrested for the crime has claimed she killed her mother because she felt imprisoned for years. Meanwhile, police are intensifying their search for her live-in partner, who remains at large. The case involves the murders of 55-year-old software professional Somasundar, his 48-year-old ... Read more Shocking Triple Murder Case in Bengaluru: Daughter Claims She Was Treated Like a Prisoner by Mother
Another Bengaluru metro Purple Line snag at Cubbon Park Metro Station causes delays
According to the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited, the disruption occurred due to a problem with the train's door-closing mechanism. The issue led to a temporary halt in operations, affecting at least five subsequent train services and causing delays of nearly 20 minutes
Political Tensions Rise Over Bidadi Township Project in Karnataka
New Delhi, June 26: The political controversy surrounding the proposed Greater Bengaluru Integrated Township Project in Bidadi continues to escalate. Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, has invited Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar for a second time to visit Byramangala village on June 27 and engage directly with those affected by the ... Read more Political Tensions Rise Over Bidadi Township Project in Karnataka
Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20: Gulbarga Mystics Outclass Hubli Tigers; Climb To Third Spot
Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Tournament: Gulbarga Mystics returned to winning ways with a commanding seven-wicket victory over Hubli Tigers in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Tournament on Thursday, climbing to third place in the standings as the Mysuru leg of the tournament came to an end. In a low-scoring contest, Hubli Tigers struggled for momentum throughout their innings, losing wickets at regular intervals before finishing on 119 for nine in 20 overs. The Tigers highest partnership came from the final wicket, with Shikhar Shetty (27 not out off 17 balls; 2 fours, 2 sixes) and Vaibhav Sharma (4 not out) adding 31 runs, highlighting the batting sides overall struggles. Shettys late flourish, which included 17 runs in the final over, helped the Hubli Tigers avoid being bowled out for under 100. Mayank Agarwal (16) and Abhinav Manohar (21) failed to convert their starts, while medium pacer Kranthi Kumar starred with the ball, returning impressive figures of 3 for 17 from three overs, including nine dot balls. Chasing 120, the Gulbarga Mystics lost two early wickets before Thippa Reddy (34 not out off 24 balls; 4 fours) and Macneil Noronha (42 not out off 29 balls; 3 fours, 3 sixes) steadied the innings with an unbeaten partnership to guide their side home in just 13.2 overs with seven wickets in hand. With the Mysore leg of the tournament concluding, Bengaluru Blasters lead the table with six points from three wins, while Coastal Kings Mangaluru are second with five points from two wins and one washed-out match. The Gulbarga Mystics moved up to third with four points from four matches following their second win of the campaign, while Hubli Tigers slipped to fifth after suffering consecutive defeats. Coastal Kings Mangaluru win Earlier, Karun Nair and Shreyas Gopal complemented each other to steer Coastal Kings Mangaluru to a six-wicket victory over Mysore Warriors on Thursday. The Coastal Kings were back in action less than 24 hours after losing to Bangalore Blasters by 20 runs on Wednesday. But they made light work of the fatigue factor with Nair and Gopal successfully chasing a 192-run target with a stunning and decisive 60-ball 123 run partnership for the fourth wicket. The veteran duo, who have featured in many epic battles both for Karnataka and many franchises down the years, turned the tables after the Coastal Kings were reduced to 42-3 by the fifth over. Nair, the top pick at Rs18-lakh in this years auction, was at his flamboyant best making a 32-ball 61 (6 fours, three sixes) before he got out going for another big hit. The tournament now shifts to Hubballi, with play resuming on Saturday. Nair, the top pick at Rs18-lakh in this years auction, was at his flamboyant best making a 32-ball 61 (6 fours, three sixes) before he got out going for another big hit. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Hubli Tigers 119/9 in 20 overs (Shikhar Shetty 27 not out; Kranthi Kumar 3/17) lost to Gulbarga Mystics 120/3 in 13.2 overs (Thippa Reddy 34 not out, Macneil Noronha 42 not out; Shikhar Shetty 2/26) by seven wickets Article Source: IANS
Recurring Bengaluru Metro breakdowns trigger calls for safety & maintenance audit
Bengalurus Mount Carmel College conferred deemed-to-be-university status
After bail & personal turmoil, Bengaluru businessman ends life in actress flat
12 arrested for robbing Bengaluru trader of Rs 17 lakh
Digital shift simplifies concessions, but railway accessibility still a hurdle for the disabled
Sri Lankan caught at Bengaluru airport with fake Canadian passport
BRICS Expands Satellite Constellation
Club of Nations moves towards Space Council at Bengaluru summit
Despite SC order, many schools skip gratuity for teachers
Traffic curbs in Kengeri for CMs event tomorrow
A Java Full Stack Developer dramatically boosted his salary from 7.8 LPA to 24.8 LPA in a single year. Strategic job switches, a bold move to Bengaluru, and leveraging multiple offers during his notice period were key. Despite initial slow growth at a service-based company, his risk-taking and continuous learning led to this significant career leap, culminating in a role at AMEX GBT.
Purple Line metro services in Bengaluru experienced a brief disruption on Thursday evening due to a train door malfunction at Cubbon Park station. Passengers were safely deboarded as a precautionary measure, causing a 17-minute delay to subsequent services. This follows a similar incident on Tuesday, highlighting ongoing technical issues. Operations and Maintenance teams have since rectified the problem, restoring normal services.
Centre planning nationwide dam desilting drive: Jal shakti minister
No lapses in Gruha Lakshmi implementation, says women and child welfare department
Puttige, Kotathattu selected as Model Solar Villages
Shoe thief walks away with 27 pairs from Bengaluru apartment
VB-G RAM G: Karnataka wants existing MGNREGA issues resolved before transition
Karnataka aims to vaccinate 64L children in pulse polio drive
Kumaraswamy renews call for Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar's visit to Bidadi project site
Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy has again urged Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to join him on June 27 in Byramangala village to meet residents impacted by the proposed Greater Bengaluru Integrated Township Project. Kumaraswamy seeks a joint on-site interaction to address concerns from farmers, laborers, and entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need for direct dialogue with affected communities.
Businessman found dead in actors residence in Bengaluru
AP Drone Corp. inks pact for developing drone delivery network across Amaravati
Bengaluru-based aerospace company will work with stakeholders across healthcare, logistics and e-commerce sectors to enable drone operations connecting Amaravati, Vijayawada and Guntur
Naidu praises Modi in presence of Telangana, Karnataka CMs
Koppal: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership while addressing a gathering during the inauguration of the newly installed crest gates at the Tungabhadra Dam in Munirabad, Koppal district. Sharing the stage with Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, Naidu Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Wall-breaking silver heist: Bengaluru police recover 5kg of silver from young burglar
Coalition demands unconditional implementation of Womens Reservation Act, holds public consultation
Beedi workers fear loss of livelihood due to outside supplies
Union opposes privatisation of power sector
Activists seek 50 lakh compensation for families of STP workers
GCC demand, flex workspaces keep India's office leasing on growth path in H1
India's office market is thriving, with a 6% year-on-year surge in leasing to 35.7 million sq ft in the first half of 2026. Global Capability Centres and steady demand from sectors like technology and BFSI are driving this growth. Bengaluru and Hyderabad lead the charge, showcasing robust expansion despite global economic headwinds. Flexible workspaces are also seeing unprecedented demand, signaling a dynamic and resilient market.
Mount Carmel College becomes Deemed-to-be University
Congress Launches Nationwide 40-Day Campaign Against Exam Paper Leaks
Bengaluru, June 25: Congress MP Varsha Gaikwad announced a nationwide 40-day campaign on Thursday to address alleged exam paper leaks and irregularities in the education system. She accused the NDA government of failing to protect student interests. Speaking at a press conference at the Agricultural Technology Institute on Queens Road, Gaikwad stated that the campaign ... Read more Congress Launches Nationwide 40-Day Campaign Against Exam Paper Leaks
A Bengaluru-born musician Benny Prasad back in the spotlight after he showed 16 passports packed with stamps and visas from his journey across 245 countries, including Antarctica. The clip has renewed interest in his record-setting travels, music career and difficult early life.
Karnataka mango growers get Rs 1,750 per quintal support
New Delhi: In a major relief for mango growers in Karnataka who have been reeling under a sharp decline in market prices, the Central Government has approved financial assistance under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) for Totapuri mango farmers. Support of Rs 1,750 per quintal has been sanctioned for 1.30 lakh metric tonnes of Totapuri Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
BJP seeks cancellation of Bengaluru tunnel road tender, targets Congress over Adani bid
The BJP has demanded Karnataka government scrap the Bengaluru tunnel road tender, alleging the Adani Group's bid is a staggering 96% over the estimated cost. Opposition leader R Ashoka accused the Congress of favouring corporate interests, contrasting it with Rahul Gandhi's anti-crony capitalism stance. The party fears citizens will face decades of tolls and the project burdens taxpayers, questioning the rationale behind clearing such a high bid.
Krishna textbook name linked to river, not religion: NCERT
Bengaluru: Amid a growing political debate over alleged saffronisation of school textbooks, NCERT has issued a clarification defending the content and naming of its recently introduced textbooks, including the Class 6 Kannada text titled Krishna. The controversy gained momentum after former Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa accused the BJP government of introducing ideological influences into educational Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Businessman found dead in actor Krishi Thapandas residence in Bengaluru
He is said to have sent messages to the actor indicating that he intended to end his life
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, has strengthened its global standing in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2026, achieving significant improvements across multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while retaining its overall 101-200 global band. MAHE secured the No. 1 global rank for SDG 5 - Gender Equality The latest rankings recognise MAHEs commitment to progressing excellence in research, teaching, outreach, and institutional stewardship aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. In a landmark achievement, MAHE secured the No. 1 global rank for SDG 5 - Gender Equality, making an extraordinary leap from Rank 11 in the previous edition. MAHE also recorded an impressive Rank 5 globally for SDG 3 - Good Health & Well-being, improving significantly from Rank 74 in 2025. MAHE continued its upward trajectory in other key areas, attaining Rank 23 for SDG 4 - Quality Education, up from Rank 43, and making remarkable progress in SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals, where it moved from the 601-800 band to Rank 93 globally. The rankings reflect MAHEs strategic focus on promoting an inclusive academic environment, endorsing gender equity, delivering quality education, advancing healthcare innovation, and building impactful global partnerships that contribute to sustainable development. Speaking on the achievement, Dr Sharath K. Rao, Vice Chancellor, MAHE , said, " MAHEs performance in the THE Impact Rankings 2026 is a testament to our unwavering commitment to creating meaningful societal impact through education, research, healthcare, and community engagement. Securing the No. 1 global rank for Gender Equality and achieving top-five status in Good Health & Well-being reflect the collective efforts of our faculty, researchers, students, healthcare professionals, and partners. Dr Christopher Sudhakar, Director Quality, MAHE, said, "MAHEs outstanding performance in the THE Impact Rankings 2026 reflects a deeply embedded culture of quality, accountability, and continuous improvement across the institution. Achieving the No. 1 global rank for SDG 5 and significant advancements in SDGs 3, 4, and 17 demonstrate that our quality assurance framework extends beyond academic excellence to creating measurable societal impac t. By enhancing collaboration, broadening access to quality education, promoting fairness in opportunities, and progressing in healthcare and community outreach initiatives, MAHE continues to make a significant contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. At the same time, it strengthens its status as a top global institution dedicated to positive social change. About Manipal Academy of Higher Education Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. MAHE offers over 400 specialisations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2025 rankings, MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life, as well as for national and multinational corporations seeking top talent.
Bengaluru police launch inquiry into death at actress Krishi Thapandas home
A 33-year-old man was found dead inside Kannada actress Krishi Thapandas Bengaluru apartment. Police have launched an investigation and are awaiting post-mortem and forensic reports to determine the cause of death. No foul play has been confirmed so far.
Former director of medical education in Karnataka Dr. N. Rajeeva Shetty passes away in Bengaluru
Dr. Rajeeva Shetty made significant contributions to dental education, research, and healthcare administration
From code to captaincy: AWS agentic AI playbook
At DevSparks Bengaluru 2026, AWS Praful Bagai used cricket to explain why developers must move beyond prompts and start orchestrating intelligent systems.
CM Shivakumar inaugurates 33 spillway gates of Tungabhadra Dam
Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, alongside Union Minister C R Patil and the Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, inaugurated 33 new spillway gates at the Tungabhadra Dam. This significant upgrade follows the August 2024 incident where a gate was washed away, prompting a swift expert-led replacement. The Rs 51 crore project ensures the dam's functionality for decades, supporting agriculture across three states.
Man found dead at actress-model's Bengaluru flat. Who is Krishi Thapanda?
A man was found dead in actress Krishi Thapanda's Bengaluru apartment. Police are investigating the incident, which preliminary findings suggest was a suicide. Vaishak had reportedly called the actress-model on Wednesday night, expressing suicidal intentions. Read on to know more about the actress.
A woman shifted to Bengaluru from London and reduced more than 50 percent of her monthly rent. She also pointed out how she saves money by carrying her meals/dabbas during outings and taking bike taxis in the city. Check it out.
Man found dead in Kannada actor Krishi Thapanda's apartment
A man in his 30s was found dead in the apartment of Kannada actor Krishi Thapanda in Bengaluru's RR Nagar on Thursday.
Karnataka BJP Raises Alarm Over 225 Crore Griha Lakshmi Scam
Bengaluru, June 25: Karnatakas opposition leader and senior BJP figure R. Ashok has accused the state government of a massive 225 crore scam under the Griha Lakshmi Scheme. He described the situation as a case of state-sponsored cybercrime and called for an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and central cybercrime agencies. Ashok ... Read more Karnataka BJP Raises Alarm Over 225 Crore Griha Lakshmi Scam
Cookstoves and Carbon Credits: Inside Bengaluru's Carbon Market Boom
Poorly designed projects where households are pushed towards technology actually increase emissions, say experts.
Office leasing down 2% in Apr-Jun across top 7 cities; new supply falls 28%: Colliers
Office space leasing across seven major Indian cities saw a slight dip of 2% to 17.4 million sq ft in April-June, primarily due to reduced new supply. While Bengaluru, Delhi-NCR, and Hyderabad experienced growth, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, and Kolkata reported declines. Despite global economic uncertainties, the office market demonstrated resilience, with Grade A space uptake remaining largely stable.
BJP targets Priyank Kharge over traffic violations
Bengaluru: The Karnataka BJP on Wednesday, June 25, launched a sharp attack on Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge over alleged traffic violations linked to a vehicle registered in his name, accusing him of failing to follow the very road safety norms he recently urged citizens to obey. In a post on social media platform X, the Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Telangana CM urges Centre to resolve Tungabhadra water row
Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Wednesday, June 24, urged the Union government to resolve the utilisation of the states rightful share of water from the Tungabhadra project and to facilitate coordination among the stakeholder states. Revanth Reddy, who held a review of the Tungabhadra project, RDS, and inter-state river water disputes here, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
A Microsoft employee in Bengaluru, Deepika Koul, has captured social media attention for her enduring enthusiasm at work after five years. She attributes her sustained excitement not to the company's name, but to a supportive workplace culture fostering collaboration and personal growth. Koul highlights how her colleagues' encouragement and meaningful interactions positively impact her mental wellbeing, urging others to value such environments.
Bengaluru startup Airbound ties up with Andhra Pradesh to build drone delivery network
Bengaluru's Airbound is partnering with Andhra Pradesh Drone Corporation to launch a massive drone delivery network in the Amaravati Capital Region. Aiming for 10,000 daily flights within a year, the initiative will initially serve Guntur, then expand to Amaravati and Vijayawada. This ambitious project promises to revolutionize logistics for healthcare, goods, and e-commerce, potentially slashing delivery costs significantly.
The Future of Angioplasty: Precision Calcium Management and Metal-Less Therapies
Coronary Artery Disease continues to be one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with India witnessing a particularly alarming rise in the disease, changing lifestyles, increasing stress levels, unhealthy dietary habits, smoking, diabetes, hypertension, and lack of physical activity have contributed significantly to the growing burden of heart disease across all age groups. Coronary Artery Disease is no longer a condition affecting only the elderly, younger individuals are increasingly presenting with complex coronary blockages, making early detection and timely treatment more critical than ever. Common warning signs such as chest pain, shortness of breath, excessive fatigue, dizziness, and reduced exercise tolerance should never be ignored, as prompt medical attention can significantly improve outcomes. The field of interventional cardiology has witnessed remarkable advancements over the past decade, enabling physicians to treat coronary blockages with greater precision, safety, and long-term effectiveness. Modern angioplasty techniques now include ultra-thin strut Drug-Eluting Stents (DES), specialized bifurcation stents for complex vessel anatomy, and long tapered stents designed to address extensive coronary lesions while maintaining optimal blood flow. Beyond conventional stenting, metal-less angioplasty approaches are emerging as promising treatment options in the management of coronary artery disease. BioResorbable Scaffolds provide temporary vessel support before gradually dissolving over time, while Drug-Coated Balloons deliver anti-proliferative medication directly to the vessel wall without requiring a permanent implant. These innovations are particularly valuable in selected patient populations and align with the broader goal of preserving the natural physiology of the artery. Dr. Kishore K S, Senior Interventional Cardiologist, Sagar Hospitals, Bengaluru Dr. Kishore K S , Senior Interventional Cardiologist, Sagar Hospitals, Bengaluru , said, "The philosophy of 'Leave Nothing Behind' is transforming the future of coronary interventions. While Drug-Eluting Stents (DES) continue to play a crucial role in treating complex coronary artery disease, newer treatment modalities such as BioResorbable Scaffolds (BRS) and Drug-Coated Balloons (DCB) are expanding our therapeutic options. These technologies allow us to tailor treatment based on the patient's condition while reducing the amount of permanent metallic implants within the coronary arteries. The ability to restore vessel function while potentially leaving nothing behind represents a significant step forward in patient-centric cardiac care." Another critical challenge in contemporary angioplasty is the management of heavily calcified coronary lesions, which can make procedures technically demanding and impact treatment outcomes. Advances in calcium modification technologies are helping physicians prepare these difficult lesions more effectively before stent implantation. Dr. Anand R. Shenoy, Consultant - Interventional Cardiologist, Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru Dr. Anand R. Shenoy , Consultanat - Interventional Cardiologist, Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru , said, "Coronary artery calcification remains one of the most challenging aspects of angioplasty. Adequate calcium management is essential to ensure optimal stent expansion and long-term procedural success. Today, advanced lesion preparation techniques and calcium modification technologies such as specialty balloons, atherectomy systems, and intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) enable us to treat complex calcified blockages more effectively than ever before. By addressing calcium appropriately before intervention, we can improve procedural outcomes, reduce complications, and ultimately enhance the quality of care delivered to patients with complex coronary artery disease." While technological innovations continue to improve treatment outcomes, prevention remains the first line of defense against coronary artery disease. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, tobacco cessation, stress management, and routine health screenings can significantly reduce cardiovascular risk. With the availability of advanced angioplasty solutions and increasing awareness about heart health, cardiologists believe that patients diagnosed with coronary artery disease today have access to safer, more personalized, and highly effective treatment options than ever before.
A master planning dilemma for Bengaluru
Multiple plans by multiple agencies inevitably adds to the complexity. Unlike in the past, the master plan, covering a total area of 1,227.48 sq km will now be prepared by two different agencies
Karnataka: ED Raids Locations Linked to Minister Jarkiholis Brother-in-Law
According to sources, the ED conducted simultaneous searches at around six locations linked to Manjunath in Belagavi, Bengaluru, Mysuru and Arsikere in Hassan district
In a tragic incident in Bengaluru, a paying guest owner was brutally killed by two students over a dispute regarding a water tap. After an initial altercation, the youths returned, threatening the owner before overpowering him and fatally striking him with his son's cricket bat. The victim's family suspects the attackers were under the influence of substances, while the accused are now in judicial custody.
Dr Jitendra Singh pitches BRICS Space Economy
Union Minister of State for PMO Dr Jitendra Singh Wednesday pitched for BRICS Space Economy as the next frontier of global growth and called for collective action among member nations to unlock new opportunities in innovation, investment, entrepreneurship and sustainable development. Addressing the valedictory session of the BRICS Heads of Space Agencies (HOSA) Meeting in Bengaluru, Dr Jitendra Singh said BRICS countries possess the scale, scientific capabilities, technological strengths and industrial capacity required 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. BRICS countries have the potential to become one of the strongest pillars of this emerging global space ecosystem, Dr Jitendra Singh said. The minister also released the Indian Space Industry Brochure, exchanged mementoes with the Heads of Space Agencies participating in the meeting and interacted with representatives of Indias fast-growing NewSpace sector. The interaction showcased the growing capabilities of Indian space startups and private enterprises before the visiting BRICS delegations. Hosted by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) under Indias BRICS Chairship 2026, the two-day meeting brought together Heads of Space Agencies and senior officials from Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates. Chairman, ISRO and Secretary, Department of Space Dr V. Narayanan, Chairman, IN-SPACe Dr. Pawan Goenka, senior officials from the Department of Space, representatives of Indian space industries and NewSpace startups also participated in the concluding session. The meeting reviewed progress in BRICS space cooperation and deliberated on key issues including space sustainability, debris-free missions, strengthening the BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation (RSSC), expanding participation of new BRICS members in existing cooperation mechanisms, and advancing discussions on the proposed BRICS Space Council. Deliberations also covered future collaboration in disaster management, Earth observation, capacity building and knowledge sharing. Dr Jitendra Singh said that space technology has emerged as one of the most powerful drivers of economic transformation and societal progress, enabling countries to strengthen communication networks, navigation systems, disaster preparedness, agriculture, healthcare, education and environmental monitoring. He said 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. Referring to the growing role of BRICS in the global space landscape, the minister said the grouping represents a significant share of the worlds population, economic output, scientific expertise and technological capabilities. He said deeper cooperation among BRICS countries can create new opportunities for innovation, industrial partnerships, technology transfer, investment and economic growth while addressing common developmental priorities. Dr. Jitendra Singh said the BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation has already demonstrated the value of collaborative space applications through satellite data sharing among member countries. He expressed confidence that ongoing discussions on institutional mechanisms, including the proposed BRICS Space Council, would provide greater momentum and continuity to future cooperation in the space sector. The minister said Indias space programme has consistently focused on ensuring that the benefits of space technology reach ordinary citizens. Guided by the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Indias space sector has undergone transformative reforms that have opened unprecedented opportunities for private industry, startups, academia and global partnerships, resulting in one of the worlds most dynamic and rapidly expanding space ecosystems. Dr Jitendra Singh said Indias achievements such as Chandrayaan-3, Aditya-L1 and the continuing progress of the Gaganyaan mission have not only expanded the frontiers of science and technology but have also created new avenues for international collaboration in advanced space research and applications. Emphasising the importance of sustainability, Dr Jitendra Singh said that the long-term future of space activities depends on preserving outer space as a safe, secure and sustainable domain. He called for greater international cooperation, transparency, responsible behaviour and capacity building to address challenges arising from increasing space traffic and orbital debris. He welcomed the discussions held during the meeting on debris-free missions and sustainable space operations as important steps towards safeguarding the space environment for future generations. Calling for a more ambitious vision of cooperation, Dr Jitendra Singh said India envisions BRICS space engagement evolving from coordination to co-creation. 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, he said. The minister reaffirmed Indias commitment to working closely with all BRICS partners to transform shared aspirations into concrete outcomes and to ensure that space continues to serve as a powerful force for development, resilience, innovation, sustainability and international cooperation.
Academic Freedom: Reclaiming India's Civilizational Legacy of Knowledge
Academic freedom is not a Western import or a modern political slogan. It is an ancient Indian value BIJU DHARMAPALAN In India, whenever the issue of academic freedom comes up, the conversation is invariably through a modern political prism. However, intellectual freedom has a rich heritage in Indian civilisation. It has been a tradition in India, dating back long before the dawn of modern universities in Europe, to encourage cultures of inquiry, debate, and dissent, in the Vedic tradition, the Buddhist knowledge centres of monastic schools, and the many philosophical schools. This is the heritage we need to revive and consolidate to achieve our goal of becoming a knowledge power in the 21st century. Academic freedom in India has been reported to be in serious jeopardy in recent years in the international arena. Though the question of rankings and indices can be argued, the bigger question is, can a country be innovative, prosperous and scientifically advanced without giving the scholars freedom to question, challenge and explore? The Vedic Tradition: Knowledge Through Questioning Contrary to the popular notion that ancient learning was mere rote memorisation and obedience, Vedic education was all about questioning. The Upanishads are conversations in the form of questioning. Pupils questioned teachers, and questions were put to sages; the truths were not decreed, but rather were challenged and debated. Perhaps one of the earliest examples of intellectual courage appears in the Katha Upanishad, where Nachiketa meets Yama. A young boy who doesn't accept easy answers and is constantly asking questions about life and death. Similarly, Gargi Vachaknavi, in the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, challenged intellectual authority (of the sage Yajnavalkya) publicly. The Rig Veda contains an attitude of inquiry. The famous Nasadiya Sukta does not provide definitive answers to the creation issue but acknowledges its uncertainty. Such modesty regarding knowledge is characteristic of a confident civilisation. The Buddhist Contribution: Freedom as a Path to Truth Another strong case for academic freedom is presented in the teachings of the Buddha. Lord Buddha in the Kalama Sutta taught that his followers should never take anything on faith just because it is found in scripture, or tradition, or the words of someone. Rather, the individual was asked to look for evidence and use reason to decide for himself whether to accept any claim. This is based on the same principle as contemporary scientific practice. Science advances because every idea remains open to scrutiny. Every theory can be challenged. Every hypothesis must survive criticism. Academic freedom is therefore not a political luxury; it is the operating system of scientific progress. The Buddhist universities that flourished across ancient India institutionalised this spirit of inquiry. Debate was not considered a threat. It was considered a method of learning. Why Academic Freedom is important for the future of India. India is now looking to be a leader in Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology, Quantum Computing, Space Science, Renewable Energy and Advanced Manufacturing. Such dreams need funding and infrastructure, but much more. It's hard to get innovation when people are afraid to challenge the status quo. Some of the largest scientific achievements ever made, including the discovery of DNA, Einstein's theory of relativity, and the invention of modern computers, were the result of intellectual freedom. The recent studies increasingly demonstrate a positive link between academic freedom and innovation. Nations that enjoy greater academic freedom have higher patent output, better research, and stronger technological development. Evidence indicates that greater academic freedoms lead to meaningful increases in the quantity and quality of innovations produced. But it is important to understand that if India is to become a developed nation by 2047, it must recognise that academic freedom is a key driver of it. Institutional Autonomy: The Foundation of Academic Freedom The recent Academic Freedom Index report offers an important insight that deserves particular attention in India. According to the authors, the autonomy of academic institutions is one of the strongest determinants of the freedom enjoyed by individual researchers. When institutional autonomy is reduced, universities and scholars are subjected to more and more external pressures, political, ideological, administrative and economic, the report says. Academic freedom is not only a matter for courageous scholars; it is also a matter of the university's independence to decide what is taught, researched, and debated. Several countries that once had relatively high levels of academic freedom, such as Hungary, India and Trkiye, have seen their academic autonomy eroded over time due to various political, legal and administrative measures. This trend is not only prevalent in developing nations but also in developed ones. In recent years, institutional autonomy has also declined sharply in the USA, and it is a cause for concern among scholars around the world. This finding is of great importance for a nation like India. The ancient seats of learning in the country, such as Nalanda, Vikramshila, and Takshashila, prospered due to their relative intellectual freedom. They were run by kings and patrons, but rarely dictated the content of scholarship. There was a clash of philosophies among teachers, a challenge to dogma among students, and the development of knowledge occurred without administrators' control. Without autonomy, a university can't be a real centre of innovation. Scientists who are worried about repercussions within their institutions may be reluctant to pursue unusual ideas, controversial research or interdisciplinary research. Over time, this prudence leads to a lack of creativity and suppresses the innovative thinking needed to address complex problems such as climate change, public health, AI, and sustainable development. Preserving the autonomy of universities should be seen not only as an administrative problem but also as a developmental issue for India to become a global leader in knowledge by 2047. The Cost of Restricting Intellectual Inquiry When universities become overly dependent on political, bureaucratic, or ideological control, several consequences follow. First, talented scholars migrate elsewhere. Brain drain is often not merely a matter of salary; it is a search for intellectual space. Second, research becomes risk-averse. Scholars avoid controversial or unconventional topics, even when those topics may yield transformative discoveries. Third, universities lose their ability to act as independent centres of knowledge generation and become mere teaching institutions. Fourth, society loses an important mechanism for self-correction. Universities help nations identify emerging challenges, evaluate policies, and generate evidence-based solutions. Without academic freedom, institutions produce compliance rather than creativity. The National Education Policy 2020 has rightly envisioned multidisciplinary Universities, research excellence and global competitiveness. But this can only be achieved if institutions are truly independent and scholars are free to conduct independent research. Reclaiming India's Civilizational Confidence Indian traditions of knowledge have never been uniform. They have flourished based on dialogue, debate and diversity. Philosophical discussions in the Upanishadic era and the scholarly exchanges at Nalanda, India's greatest university, were all the result of a free exchange of ideas. The country became a beacon of learning not because everyone thought alike, but because different thinkers were allowed to disagree. As India prepares for its centenary of independence in 2047, the challenge is not merely to build more universities. It is to build universities worthy of India's civilizational heritage. The path to becoming a global knowledge leader does not lie in controlling ideas. It lies in creating conditions where ideas can flourish. Academic freedom is therefore not a Western import or a modern political slogan. It is an ancient Indian value. Reclaiming it may be one of the most important investments India can make in its future prosperity. (The Author is the Dean -Academic Affairs, Garden City University, Bengaluru and an adjunct faculty at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bangalore, E-mail: bijudharmapalan@gmail.com )
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