Pakistan Spy Jyoti Malhotra Was Hired By Kerala Tourism, Reveals RTI
Jyoti Malhotra, a 33-year-old travel vlogger from Haryana who was recently arrested for allegedly spying on behalf of Pakistan, had previously been hired by the Kerala Tourism Department as part of an official digital outreach campaign, a newly surfaced RTI response has confirmed.
Malhotra, known for her YouTube channel Travel with Jo, was among a curated list of social media influencers invited by the state between 2024 and 2025 to promote Kerala as a global travel destination. Her travel, accommodation, and itinerary costs were entirely funded by the Kerala government, under its influencer collaboration programme aimed at boosting the state's digital presence in the tourism sector.
According to the RTI reply, Malhotra travelled extensively through key tourist circuits, including Kannur, Kozhikode, Kochi, Alappuzha, and Munnar, documenting her experiences for her YouTube audience. One of her videos, which had gone viral, featured her draped in a traditional Kerala sari while attending a Theyyam performance in Kannur.
However, her arrest has cast a shadow over the programme, as ongoing investigations by Indian intelligence agencies allege that Malhotra had travelled to Pakistan multiple times, establishing direct contact with officials linked to Pakistani intelligence services, including personnel from the Pakistan High Commission in India. One such official was expelled after the alleged connections came to light.
Malhotra's arrest has raised serious concerns about national security loopholes and the vetting process for individuals participating in government-funded campaigns. Her YouTube channel, which hosts 487 videos, includes content from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Thailand, and several Indian states—now under scrutiny for potential intelligence links masked as travel content.
First Published:
July 07, 2025, 10:08 IST
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
News18
an hour ago
- News18
Vande Bharat: Check Full List Of Trains, Timings, Routes & Ticket Prices Across India
Vande Bharat Express Trains List: At present, 144 Vande Bharat services are operational on the Indian Railways network, which means 72 trains run across the country Vande Bharat Express Trains List: It was 2019 when the first Vande Bharat Express rolled out of the station—marking the arrival of not just a faster train but the beginning of a new chapter in India's transportation story. Designed, engineered, and manufactured entirely in India, the Vande Bharat series is not just a technological achievement but also reflects the country's ability to create modern, world-class infrastructure using indigenous talent and resources. Whether it's the business traveller shuttling between Delhi and Varanasi or the pilgrim heading to Katra to seek blessings at Vaishno Devi, the Vande Bharat trains—designed by RDSO and manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, a subsidiary of the Indian Railways—have redefined what comfort, speed, and punctuality mean for Indian rail passengers. The Vande Bharat network now criss-crosses the country, connecting metros, pilgrimage sites, state capitals, and economic hubs. Popular routes include New Delhi to Varanasi, Mumbai to Gandhinagar, Chennai to Mysuru, and Patna to Howrah—each carefully chosen to reflect high-demand corridors. Timings are optimised for same-day returns on many routes, making them ideal for work, family, or even weekend travel. The expansion hasn't slowed down. With new routes being added every few months—connecting smaller cities and regional clusters—Vande Bharat is quickly becoming the face of a faster, better-connected India. The journey of Vande Bharat Express began with the inaugural service between New Delhi and Varanasi, flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 15, 2019, at the New Delhi railway station. At present, 144 Vande Bharat services are operational on the Indian Railways network, which means 72 trains run across the country. The main cities connected through the trains include New Delhi, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Secunderabad, Visakhapatnam, Chennai and Coimbatore. WHAT ARE THE TICKET PRICES? The typical AC Chair Car fares range between Rs 1,100 and Rs 1,700 depending on the route, while Executive Class fares usually fall in the Rs 2,300–Rs 3,300 range. Meals are included by default, but you can choose to opt out. Here are some sample fares to give you an idea of ticket prices: New Delhi ↔ Varanasi (Train 22415/22416) • AC Chair Car: Rs 1,805 • Executive Chair Car: Rs 3,355 New Delhi ↔ Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra • AC Chair Car: Rs 1,545 • Executive Chair Car: Rs 2,805 Gandhinagar Capital ↔ Mumbai Central • AC Chair Car: Rs 1,420 • Executive Chair Car: Rs 2,630 Amb Andaura ↔ New Delhi • AC Chair Car: Rs 1,240 • Executive Chair Car: Rs 2,240 Chennai (MGR Central) ↔ Mysuru • AC Chair Car: Rs 1,365 • Executive Chair Car: Rs 2,485 Nagpur ↔ Bilaspur • AC Chair Car: Rs 1,155 • Executive Chair Car: Rs 2,065 Secunderabad ↔ Visakhapatnam • AC Chair Car: Rs 1,665 • Executive Chair Car: Rs 3,120 Howrah ↔ Puri • AC Chair Car: Rs 1,565 • Executive Chair Car: Rs 2,825 Secunderabad ↔ Tirupati • AC Chair Car: Rs 1,680 • Executive Chair Car: Rs 3,080 Delhi Cantonment ↔ Ajmer • AC Chair Car: Rs 1,250 • Executive Chair Car: Rs 2,270 Kasaragod ↔ Thiruvananthapuram • AC Chair Car: Rs 1,520 • Executive Chair Car: Rs 2,815 Anand Vihar Terminal ↔ Dehradun • AC Chair Car: Rs 1,065 • Executive Chair Car: Rs 1,890 SPEED & COMPARTMENTS The Vande Bharat Express reaches a maximum speed of 160 km/h on the Rani Kamalapati (Habibganj) to Hazrat Nizamuddin route. Among its various routes, the New Delhi to Varanasi stretch records the highest average speed of 95 km/h, while the Coimbatore to Bengaluru Cantonment line operates at a slower average of 58 km/h. The train's longest route spans 759 km between New Delhi and Varanasi, whereas the shortest runs 296 km from Gorakhpur to Lucknow, offering travelers a range of journey options. The Vande Bharat Express typically has two classes of coaches: AC Executive Class (EC) and AC Chair Car (CC). A standard 16-coach Vande Bharat train includes 14 AC Chair Car coaches and two Executive Class coaches, with a total seating capacity of 1,128 passengers. The AC Executive Class coaches offer a premium experience, with features like 2×2 seating configuration, reclining and rotating seats, and a seating capacity of 52 passengers per coach. The AC Chair Car coaches have a 2×3 seating configuration with retractable seats. The first and last coaches in this category have a seating capacity of 44 passengers each, while the remaining coaches can accommodate 78 passengers each. FEATURES & AMENITIES • The train has an intelligent braking system which enables better acceleration and deceleration. • All coaches are equipped with automatic doors; GPS-based audio-visual passenger information system, on-board hotspot Wi-Fi for entertainment purposes, and very comfortable seating. The executive class also has rotating chairs. • All toilets are bio-vacuum type. The lighting is dual mode, viz. diffused for general illumination and personal for every seat. • Every coach has a pantry with facilities to serve hot meals, hot and cold beverages. The insulation is meant to keep heat and noise to very low levels for additional passenger comfort. top videos View all • Adding up the green footprints, the train has a regenerative braking system in the coaches which can save up to 30 per cent of electrical energy. • The Vande Bharat Express train has fully sealed gangways and censored interconnecting doors for a dust-free environment. About the Author Apoorva Misra Apoorva Misra is News Editor at with over nine years of experience. She is a graduate from Delhi University's Lady Shri Ram College and holds a PG Diploma from Asian College of Journalism, Chennai. More Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from politics to crime and society. Stay informed with the latest India news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : Vande Bharat Trains view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 28, 2025, 08:00 IST News india Vande Bharat: Check Full List Of Trains, Timings, Routes & Ticket Prices Across India Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Indian Express
an hour ago
- Indian Express
Thousands of years of civilization alive and visible in Delhi, says Ecuador Ambassador
A career diplomat with over three decades of experience, Fernando Bucheli, Ambassador of Ecuador to India, has represented his nation in various postings around the world, including Japan, Switzerland, Germany, and the Netherlands. He has been living in Delhi for around a year, and he says that the city 'touches your heart in quiet, enduring ways'. 'It is not just a city you live in—it is a city that stays with you,' Bucheli asserts. He speaks to The Indian Express as part of a series of interviews with Ambassadors about Delhi — their home. Excerpts: What is the one place in the city that you love to visit often? I have been living in Delhi for one year, and during this time, I have come to appreciate the city as one of the world's great historical capitals. Delhi is not just a seat of government — it is a place where thousands of years of civilization are visible and alive. One place that left a lasting impression on me from the beginning is Akshardham Temple. Its monumental architecture, intricate carvings, are truly breathtaking. But beyond its physical beauty, what moves me most is the story it tells about India—its culture, its values, its spiritual heritage, and its contributions to humanity through the ages. Every visit to Akshardham is a reminder of how deeply rooted Indian identity is in history, reflection, and devotion. It offers a unique perspective—not only into Hindu philosophy, but into the broader soul of the country. What are the three things that stood out in Delhi during your stay here? First, the profound spirituality of its people. In Delhi, spirituality is not something abstract — it's a living force that shapes daily life. Whether through temple visits, rituals, or simple gestures of compassion, people carry their values with a quiet but powerful dignity. This spiritual depth is something I deeply admire. Second, the genuine warmth and friendship extended to foreigners. From the very beginning, I was welcomed with openness and sincerity. The friendships I've built here — across cultures, professions, and backgrounds — are among the most meaningful aspects of my diplomatic mission. There is a generosity of spirit that is unique and unforgettable. Third, the striking contrasts that coexist in the city. Delhi presents a complex mosaic where wealth and opportunity stand alongside inequality and hardship. These contrasts are not easy to ignore, and they call for reflection. Yet, they also reveal the resilience and vitality of its people—how they adapt, create, and strive, often with remarkable dignity. Any memories here that you'll never forget? Delhi has offered me unforgettable experiences that go far beyond official meetings or diplomatic engagements. What has truly stayed with me are the spiritual spaces I have visited and the conversations with people deeply rooted in India's philosophical traditions. I have found peace and perspective in places like the ISKCON temple, the Jain temples, and the gurdwaras — especially Bangla Sahib, where the spirit of service and equality is deeply moving. One particularly meaningful experience has been my visit to the Art of Living International Center, where I was introduced to meditation and breathing techniques that embody India's living wisdom in a contemporary context. Delhi also provides opportunities to appreciate the contributions of Islamic culture to India's artistic and intellectual landscape—visible in its architecture, calligraphy, music, and traditions of hospitality. At a diplomatic level, it was a great honor to present my credentials to President Droupadi Murmu, a moment of deep symbolic and institutional significance. I was also privileged to greet Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a social event—a brief but memorable exchange with the leader of this extraordinary nation. In one of my spiritual and cultural visits, I came across the Encyclopedia of Hinduism, a remarkable work compiled under the guidance of Swami Sarasvati Ji and published in English. It offers a vast yet accessible insight into Hindu philosophy, traditions, and the spiritual foundations of Indian civilization. It is my personal dream that this monumental contribution can one day be translated into Spanish, to help Spanish-speaking audiences engage more deeply with India's profound heritage. Favourite food in the city? Delhi is a culinary universe in itself, and discovering its food has been one of the most enjoyable parts of living here. I have developed a deep appreciation for North Indian cuisine, and butter chicken, with its rich flavor and comforting warmth, has become a personal favorite. There are several places I enjoy visiting. The Spice Route at The Imperial is not just a restaurant — it is an artistic and cultural experience, where every corner tells a story, and the food reflects a journey through Asia. I also appreciate the modern elegance and fusion style of Bo Tai in Qutub, as well as the vibrant atmosphere and traditional flavors at Parikrama, a revolving restaurant. At the same time, I find the street food culture in Old Delhi to be extraordinary. Walking through the narrow lanes, and discovering hidden gems and time-honored recipes is like tasting history. The way food is celebrated and shared in this city speaks volumes about its soul. How is Delhi different compared to other cities that you have visited? Delhi stands out for its intense diplomatic and public engagement calendar. Among the many capitals I have served in, I can confidently say that Delhi is one of the most active and vibrant in terms of events, conferences, and outreach activities. There is a constant flow of invitations — from chambers of commerce, ministries, universities, think tanks, and cultural institutions —that reflects the city's dynamic role in shaping not only India's national agenda but also its international relations. As a diplomat, this offers unique opportunities to engage with a broad spectrum of stakeholders and to deepen bilateral ties in meaningful ways. One striking aspect is that there is hardly a free day in Delhi — even weekends are filled with events, receptions, cultural programmes, or working meetings. The city moves at a remarkable pace, and being part of that rhythm is both challenging and stimulating. If you have to introduce Delhi to someone back home, how would you do it? I would say that Delhi is not just a city—it is an awakening. It's a place that challenges you, surprises you, and ultimately transforms you. Living here means engaging daily with complexity, beauty, history, faith, and humanity in all its forms. Delhi teaches you to see the world differently. It invites you to look beyond the surface, to embrace diversity, to appreciate the coexistence of contrasts. You encounter thousands of years of civilization in a single walk, hear dozens of languages in a single day, and witness countless acts of kindness in the most unexpected places. If I were to describe Delhi back home, I would say: you will never return to the same person. This city has the power to expand your mind and deepen your spirit. It leaves a mark that stays with you—quietly, but forever. Is there anything you would want to tell the administrators to change about the city? As a guest in this remarkable city, I speak with great respect and admiration for all that Delhi represents. What I can humbly share are reflections from the perspective of a resident who has come to appreciate the city's many strengths, as well as its complexities. Delhi is a city of extraordinary potential, and like many large capitals around the world, it faces the ongoing challenge of managing rapid urban growth. In that context, efforts to enhance infrastructure, public services, and environmental conditions are not only necessary but already underway in many areas. In particular, I believe that initiatives aimed at improving air quality, waste management, traffic flow, and noise levels would contribute greatly to the overall well-being of its residents and visitors alike. These are challenges shared by many global cities, and I have no doubt that with its talent, creativity, and determination, Delhi will continue to make meaningful progress. Does pollution in Delhi bother you? How do you deal with it? Yes, like in many major global cities, pollution in Delhi—especially during certain times of the year—is a serious concern. I take the necessary precautions: following public health advisories, limiting outdoor exposure when the air quality is poor, and taking measures to ensure a healthier indoor environment. That said, I also see pollution as part of a broader global environmental challenge. No single city or country can solve it alone. It is an issue that calls for greater international cooperation, particularly in areas such as clean energy, sustainable urban planning, waste management, and technological innovation. As diplomats, we have a role to play in building bridges for knowledge-sharing and collaboration. I believe that through sustained dialogue, partnerships, and mutual learning, countries can work together to address the environmental challenges that increasingly affect us all. What will you miss the most once you say goodbye to the city? There is much I will miss when the time comes to leave Delhi. Above all, the generosity, humility, and sincerity of the Indian people. The friendships I have built here have been deeply meaningful—marked by warmth, openness, and a genuine willingness to connect. I will also miss the spiritual atmosphere that is so present in daily life. Whether through visits to temples or quiet conversations about philosophy and values, Delhi offers constant reminders of the importance of introspection and inner strength. Another feature I have grown fond of is the presence of green and historic spaces, particularly in Lutyens' Delhi, where grand avenues and public gardens offer moments of serenity in the midst of urban life. Places like Lodhi Gardens and Nehru Park have become personal favorites. And I will always carry with me the memory of paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat. It was a deeply moving experience—one that reminded me of the timeless relevance of his message of peace, truth, and nonviolence. Gandhi's legacy continues to guide not only India, but also the conscience of the world. Delhi touches your heart in quiet, enduring ways. It is not just a city you live in—it is a city that stays with you.
Deccan Herald
5 hours ago
- Deccan Herald
Visitors to Chitradurga fort find digital hurdle difficult to breach
Hubballi: A section of visitors to the historical Chitradurga fort either return without seeing the legendary 'Obavvana kindi' or argue with guards at the gate to gain free entry as self-ticketing (by scanning QR code) fails to issue tickets due to poor internet connectivity and lengthy process of uploading details on the ASI-pay ministry of culture, under which the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) protected monument comes, has launched self-ticketing only system across India to minimise deployment of human resources at ticket counters, reduce operation cost (purchase of ticket rolls and vending machines) and reduce queue fort is one of the 25 monuments across India to pilot this initiative. However, forget the benefits, visitors to the fort are facing hardships..A security guard at Chitradurga fort said seven out of 10 attempts fail due to poor takes at least 8-10 minutes for each transaction to complete as visitors have to fill in their details along with uploading identity proof and mobile numbers on the ASI-pay app..'Many visitors don't carry smart-phones or do not have phone-pay/G-pay. The network coverage at the fort is poor. So, it becomes very difficult to manage the crowd,' said another many as 16 centrally protected monuments in Karnataka have entry them, two monuments — Chitradurga fort and Tipu Sultan palace in Bengaluru — allow visitors only under self-ticketing have to scan a QR code placed at the entry gate via digital payment apps and buy the 25 monuments selected by ASI across India for this pilot project, two are in ASI intends to implement self-ticketing system across all 250 centrally protected ticketed monuments in the country..A senior ASI official said the key main intention of the Ministry of Culture to implement ASI-pay app is to give Indian visitors Rs 5 discount and foreign visitors Rs 50 multiple ASI officials and guides at Hampi and Vijayapura informed DH that the app, instead of helping visitors, was resulting in hardships..'Earlier, we used to deploy two staff to issue tickets at Vijayapura monuments. Now, with the government insisting on self-ticketing, we are deploying five staff on weekends to help tourists,' said a Dharwad circle officer of app has also reduced mass booking of tickets. Only five persons can book a ticket per a guide at Hampi, says visitors are facing problems while booking tickets at Lotus Mahal and Vittala temple complex due to poor network coverage..'A majority of visitors buy tickets at the counter though they are a bit costlier than booking through QR scanning method,' he says and adds the process should have been as simple as making a digital ASI officer at Hampi circle said the complaint had been brought to the notice of higher-ups..'The network issue wasn't brought to our notice, we will look into it,' he says..A senior officer in Bengaluru circle, under which Chitradurga fort and Tipu Sultan palace come, says they are just following orders from the ministry of culture..'We have been asked to issue tickets at these monuments only via QR code scanning. Officials in Delhi or regional directors can take a call on reactivating booking counters,' he says.
