Dharmendra

This news report examines the intense controversy surrounding the new UGC 2026 equity norms aimed at curbing campus discrimination. While the Congress student wing, NSUI, has welcomed the move, stating 'it's important to address discrimination on campus,' students from general categories have labeled the law 'draconian,' fearing it may divide classrooms along class lines. The regulations, influenced by a parliamentary committee chaired by Digvijay Singh and following Supreme Court directions, explicitly include disability and OBC harassment as grounds for discrimination. The bulletin highlights that while groups like ABVP seek more clarity, others like the Left-leaning AISA question the implementation. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has assured that the law will not be misused and emphasizes the government's commitment to fairness. The report also notes political escalations, including protests at the UGC headquarters and the resignation of an SDM in Uttar Pradesh, as the debate over a potential caste census continues to influence the discourse.

On this Special Report, former University Grants Commission (UGC) member Yogendra Yadav weighs in on the intensifying controversy surrounding the new UGC equity norms. As protests erupt across India over claims that the rules risk dividing students along caste lines, Yadav offers a sharp critique of the government's role. He stated, 'This instance is an instance of manufactured dissent, how a regime is trying to cultivate dissent against its own decision so that it can be diluted.' Yadav argues that the anti-discrimination framework has existed since 2012 and that the current changes are merely a result of a 2019 Supreme Court mandate rather than a proactive step by the government. The discussion also highlights the demands from the Congress party for a caste census and Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's assurance that the law will not be misused. The programme explores whether the backlash is a genuine student grievance or a calculated political move to reconsider social justice regulations.

In this special report on Newstrack, Marya Shakil moderates a fiery debate over the University Grants Commission’s proposed 2026 equity regulations. The guidelines, intended to address and reduce discrimination on campuses, have triggered protests in several parts of the country.

This edition of The News Today with Rajdeep Sardesai focuses on the landmark free trade agreement between India and the European Union. Finalised after nearly two decades of negotiations, the pact seeks to open up a combined market of two billion people by cutting import duties on key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals and textiles.

This news report examines the nationwide confrontation triggered by the University Grants Commission's (UGC) new equity guidelines aimed at addressing campus discrimination. The speaker notes that while the government insists 'adequate safeguards are in place,' upper caste groups have labelled the rules as biased and 'dangerous,' leading to protests and legal challenges in the Supreme Court. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has clarified that the government will ensure there is no misuse of the law and that no discrimination will occur. However, the report highlights a growing political divide, with the NSUI welcoming the move while some BJP leaders express displeasure. The programme questions whether these regulations represent a tool for social justice or a form of 'reverse discrimination' due to the lack of upper caste representation in equity committees. As the debate intensifies, the central government faces mounting pressure to decide between a formal review or a complete rollback of the controversial guidelines.

This special report examines the growing controversy surrounding the University Grants Commission's (UGC) new draft rules aimed at addressing caste-based discrimination on Indian campuses. The regulations mandate the establishment of equal opportunity centres, equity panels, and 24-hour helplines to protect Dalit, Adivasi, and OBC students. However, the framework has faced significant backlash from upper-caste groups who argue the rules are biased and lack protections against false complaints. The transcript notes that 'The draft defines discrimination broadly, covering explicit acts, implicit bias, structural disadvantage and harm to dignity.' While Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has sought to reassure critics, the matter has reached the Supreme Court via a plea alleging the rules deny institutional protection to non-reserved categories. The programme highlights how these regulations have become a 'political hot potato,' with opposition leaders accusing the government of creating a 'vertical of caste against caste' while the legal challenge unfolds.

This special report examines the intense political and social backlash following the University Grants Commission's (UGC) new draft regulations aimed at tackling caste-based discrimination in Indian universities. Mohandas Pai, Chairman of Aarin Capital, characterizes the framework as draconian and anti-constitutional, while Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan defends the proposed equal opportunity centres, equity squads, and 24-hour helplines. Senior journalist Neerja Chowdhury analyzes the political implications for the BJP, drawing parallels to the 1990 Mandal Commission protests. The discussion features conflicting perspectives on whether these norms foster inclusion or deepen social fault lines. Additionally, the programme covers the historic trade agreement between India and the European Union. Experts evaluate this pact as a significant economic development since 1991, impacting the textile, automobile, and pharmaceutical sectors. The report explores market access for Indian consumers and the strategic diplomatic signals sent to global powers like the United States and China following the New Delhi summit, highlighting the economic ramifications of this international partnership.

This report examines the nationwide controversy surrounding the University Grants Commission's (UGC) new draft equity norms aimed at tackling campus discrimination. The regulations propose a comprehensive overhaul, including the establishment of equal opportunity centres, equity squads, and a 24-hour helpline linked to the police. The narrator notes that 'Reported cases of caste-based discrimination on campuses have jumped 118% between 2019 and 2024', highlighting the urgency of the issue. However, upper caste groups have launched sharp protests, arguing the framework lacks safeguards against malicious complaints and excludes general category representation on decision-making panels. The matter has reached the Supreme Court via a plea alleging the rules deny protection to non-SC, ST, and OBC categories. Politically, the situation places the ruling government in a difficult position, balancing the concerns of its traditional upper-caste support base against the need to retain Dalit and OBC voters following the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri have announced the conclusion of the 16th India-EU Summit, marking a transformative shift in bilateral relations. Minister Goyal described the landmark India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as the 'mother of all deals,' noting it covers 25 percent of global trade. The agreement provides duty-free access for 99% of Indian exports, specifically benefiting labor-intensive sectors such as textiles, leather, and gems. Foreign Secretary Misri detailed the first-ever India-EU Security and Defence Partnership and a memorandum of understanding on mobility. Key focus areas include maritime security, green hydrogen cooperation, and scientific research via the Horizon Europe program. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with EU leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa to solidify this strategic partnership. Additionally, the briefing addresses the nationwide debate regarding new UGC equity regulations. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan provided insights on these regulations, which aim to curb campus discrimination while preventing the potential misuse of the new laws.

On this Special Report, India Today examines the escalating controversy surrounding the new University Grants Commission (UGC) equity directives aimed at curbing campus caste discrimination. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan defended the regulations, stating, 'In the name of discrimination, no one will have the right to misuse it.' While the government insists the law remains within constitutional bounds, widespread protests have broken out in Delhi, Bareilly, and Meerut. Critics and student groups argue the guidelines lack verification mechanisms for complaints and fail to provide protection against malicious allegations, potentially harming the mental health and careers of the accused. The report highlights the resignation of Bareilly City Magistrate Alankar Agnihotri in protest and the demands from various student outfits for either a total rollback or significant amendments to the policy. The matter has now reached the Supreme Court via a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the fairness of these new campus regulations.

On this Special Report, the focus is on the Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's defense of the University Grants Commission's (UGC) new regulations aimed at curbing caste-based discrimination on campuses. Addressing the nationwide stir caused by the draft, the minister stated, 'I assure everyone there will be no discrimination and no one can misuse the law.' The programme highlights the Centre's efforts to allay fears regarding the potential misuse of these regulations, which have sparked protests from various sections of society, including upper-caste groups concerned about being unfairly targeted. The Education Minister emphasized that the laws are intended for fair use and that strict action will be taken against any misuse. The report also features insights from India Today's Piyush Mishra on the social media campaigns and student protests surrounding the 'Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026'.

In this special edition of To The Point, the programme spotlights the display of ‘Operation Sindoor’ at the Kartavya Path parade and the conferment of the Ashok Chakra on Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla during the Republic Day celebrations. A debate between BJP leader Rakesh Sinha and Congress’s Vivek Tankha examines key political flashpoints, including the seating arrangement for Opposition leaders and claims that the Constitution is “under threat.” The discussion also takes up allegations of the ‘electionisation’ of the Padma Awards 2026. Data cited by Praveen Chakravarty shows that 37 per cent of the 131 Padma awardees — including prominent figures such as Mammootty and the late Dharmendra — hail from five states headed for assembly polls, including West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. While the Opposition labels the civilian honours as tools for electoral messaging, BJP leader Khushboo Sundar defends the awards as recognition for long-neglected contributors to society. Overall, the show presents a measured analysis of how the Constitution and national honours have emerged as central themes in India’s political discourse ahead of crucial state elections.

This special report of 'To The Point' with Preeti Chaudhary examines the political flashpoints of India's 77th Republic Day. The program highlights the 'Operation Sindoor' display at the Kartavya Path parade and the conferment of the Ashok Chakra upon Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla. Chaudhary facilitates a debate between BJP's Professor Rakesh Sinha and Congress's Vivek Tankha regarding the seating of Opposition leaders and the narrative of the Constitution being 'under threat.' The discussion extends to the alleged 'electionization' of the Padma Awards 2026. Data presented by Praveen Chakravarty suggests that 37% of the 131 awardees, including legends like Mammootty and the late Dharmendra, hail from five poll-bound states such as West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. While the Opposition labels these civilian honors as 'election vehicles,' BJP's Khushboo Sundar defends the recognition of 'unsung heroes.' The report provides a factual look at how the Constitution and national awards remain central to India's political narrative ahead of crucial assembly elections.

BJP Tamil Nadu Vice President Khushbu Sundar joins India Today to address opposition allegations regarding the 'electionization' of the 2026 Padma Awards. Responding to claims that 35% of awardees hail from election-bound states, Sundar dismissed the charges as a sign of the Congress party's 'fear factor.' She stated, "All I can do is laugh, cough at them, because they are the ones who are trying to politicize every possible thing that the BJP government does." Sundar emphasized that the awards recognize 'unsung heroes' and legendary figures like Dharmendra and Mammootty based on merit rather than political gain. She contrasted the BJP's approach with what she termed the 'appeasement politics' of the past, asserting that the current government focuses on national growth and appreciation. The discussion also touched upon the Bharat Ratna recognitions, with Sundar advising the opposition to use their time for 'something more progressive' instead of deep-diving into award data for political narratives.

On this Special Report, India Today’s Preeti Choudhry anchors the live coverage of India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations from Kartavya Path. The bulletin highlights the historic decoration of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, a key member of the Gaganyaan mission, marking a significant milestone for India’s space-faring ambitions. Preeti Choudhry notes, 'It basically tells us where we want to be, where India wants to be in the committee of space-faring nations.' The programme also discusses the announcement of 131 Padma Awards for 2026, including a posthumous honour for actor Dharmendra. Joining the conversation, Lieutenant General Sanjay Kulkarni reflects on the pride and rigorous selection process for regiments marching in the parade. The discussion underscores the evolution of India’s military technology and the symbolic importance of gallantry award winners leading the contingents, showcasing the nation's 'brains and brawn' on the global stage.

During the 77th Republic Day celebrations, the commentator noted the conspicuous absence of key opposition figures, including the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, and Rajya Sabha LOP Mallikarjun Kharge. The broadcast highlighted the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' theme across various tableaux. 'Vande Mataram is the theme of this float of West Bengal and understandably so because it is the tabla which begins with Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay whose composition Vande Mataram in 1875 became the eternal mantra,' the speaker observed. The parade featured 17 states and union territories, including Maharashtra’s cultural display, Madhya Pradesh’s tribute to Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, and Odisha’s 'Soil and Silicon' narrative. The Manipur tableau focused on a journey toward prosperity from agricultural fields to international markets, amidst hopes for peace in the state. Cabinet ministers including Piyush Goyal, Dharmendra Pradhan, and JP Nadda were seen in attendance as the Department of School Education and Literacy and Panchayati Raj floats also made their way down the Kartavya Path.

On this India Today special report, anchor Anjali Istwal covers India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path. The 2026 parade, themed '150 years of Vande Mataram,' features European Union leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa as chief guests. The broadcast highlights India’s military strength following 'Operation Sindoor,' a May 2025 counteroffensive against Pakistan. Key displays include the S-400 missile systems, Rafale jets, and the Army’s animal contingent. A Swiss think tank report confirms India’s aerial supremacy during the conflict, leading to a forced ceasefire. The bulletin also details the 'Mother of All Deals' trade agreement with the EU and the 2026 Padma Awards. Notable honors include the Ashok Chakra for astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian on the International Space Station, and posthumous Padma Vibhushan awards for Dharmendra and V.S. Achuthanandan. Security updates report foiled infiltration bids in Samba and terror encounters in Doda and Kishtwar, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivers his 'Viksit Bharat' message.

On this Special Report, the focus is on the announcement of the Padma Awards 2026, celebrating icons and grassroots changemakers. Former UGC Chairperson M. Jagadesh Kumar, honoured with the Padma Shri, stated, 'You know that many reforms have to happen in higher education and in the coming years we will be rapidly implementing the NEP 2020 and already a lot of transformation has taken place and these reforms will be carried out at scale.' The awards recognize a diverse group, including late actor Dharmendra for the Padma Vibhushan and cricketer Rohit Sharma for the Padma Shri. The bulletin also highlights a historic milestone for Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to receive the Ashok Chakra following his Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the recipients, noting their contributions strengthen the nation. The 2026 list features significant representation from Southern states, particularly Kerala and Tamil Nadu, alongside gallantry awards conferred by President Droupadi Murmu.

On this Special Report, the focus is on India marking 77 years as a republic with a grand display of 'strength, strategy and spirit on display' during the celebrations. This year’s event marks the first Republic Day following 'Operation Sindoor', featuring a new battle array and the 'Sindhu flypast'. The European Union leadership attended as the chief guest, highlighting the 'mother of all trade deals' currently in focus as S. Jaishankar meets the EU top brass. The Padma Awards 2026 were also announced, with the late Dharmendra being honoured with the Padma Vibhushan, while Rohit Sharma and R. Madhavan received the Padma Shri. In a historic moment, Shubhanshu Shukla became the first Indian astronaut to receive the Ashok Chakra for a 'daring space mission'. The bulletin also covers security concerns, including the seizure of 10,000 kg of ammonium nitrate in Rajasthan and political clashes between TMC and BJP workers in Kolkata over the use of loudspeakers.

On this special report, the focus is on the announcement of the Padma Awards 2026, which honour icons and grassroots change-makers across India. Former UGC Chairperson Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, who has been conferred with the Padma Shri, shared his vision for the future of Indian academia. He stated, 'These reforms will be carried out at scale so that, you know, our country's higher education will reach the next level and help our students become, you know, global leaders in science and technology.' The bulletin highlights other major recipients, including late actor Dharmendra and late former Kerala CM V S Achuthanand for the Padma Vibhushan. The list also features sports icons Rohit Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur, alongside industrialist Uday Kotak. Kumar noted that the awards now increasingly recognise 'unsung heroes' working selflessly in remote areas, providing great motivation for those serving society. The 2026 awards see a significant representation from Southern states, particularly Kerala and Tamil Nadu.