This is the real photo of the brave rat hole miners who rescued the 41 workers trapped in the Uttarkashi tunnel. Newspapers like Hindustan Times and others published a cheery AI-generated fake of perhaps more “photogenic” heroes—holding an Indian flag. Well, the real thing is more than good enough for us. 

As Reuters reminds us, ‘Rat mining’ is a “primitive, hazardous and controversial method”—and its “name comes from its resemblance to rats burrowing through narrow holes.” They are among the bravest Indians—and they make all of us proud. No AI filters required, thanks! The Hindu has lots more on these men who work on the margins—with little attention or respect.