April 5, 2026

Air India Ahmedabad plane crash (File photo) NEW DELHI: Ten months after the tragic Air India plane crash that killed 260 people in Ahmedabad, around 30 grieving families have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the release of the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (black box) data.Air India flight AI 171, a Boeing 787-8 en route to London, crashed into a medical college hostel complex shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12.The aircraft bursted into flames, killing 241 out of 242 people onboard and 19 individuals on the ground.The families, who met in Ahmedabad on Saturday, said that the release of the black box and CVR data is crucial to uncover the truth behind the calamity.“We want to know the truth about what caused the crash and whether there was any technical problem,” they said.Copies of their letter were also sent to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel. The families demanded that if the black box data cannot be made public, it should at least be shared privately with them.The airline’s response to the families’ plea is awaited. The AAIB had submitted its preliminary investigation report in July 2025. The final report is expected to be released in June 2026, according to PTI.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 MediaVideos‘Will Take It To Kolkata’: Pak Minister Khawaja Asif’s Fresh Threat After Rajnath’s Stern WarningBig Reveal: ISI Behind Chandigarh Attack, Global Terror Links Surface”Living In Fear”: Indian Family In Bahrain Amid Escalating Iran War‘Genius Move’: Ex-US Pilot Hails India’s Ploy To Use Rafale Decoys In Op Sindoor To Fool PakistanIndia Buys Iranian Oil After 7 Years, No Payment Hurdles Reported“Violation Of Article 21”: Owaisi Slams UCC, Says It Interferes With Religious FreedomAmid Strait Of Hormuz Tensions, Iran Calls India A ‘Cherished Partner’ As Ships Transit Safely‘Three Allegations, Zero Truth’: Raghav Chadha Counters AAP After Shock Deputy Leader Snub‘Came Through Solidly’: S Jaishankar Flags Global Risks, Says India Emerged Resilient Amid CrisisIran War, LPG Crisis Row Expose Congress Rift As Leaders Counter Rahul Gandhi’s Stand Openly123Photostories200 kg of artificially ripened mangoes seized in Hyderabad: FSSAI’s guidelines on artificial fruit ripening and 8 smart ways to check purity at homeHailee Steinfeld and Josh Allen’s love story: Inside their journey from first sightings to family of threeTop vegetarian sources of vitamin D and how to eat them to gain maximum benefits7 indoor herbs you can grow near a sunny windowBaby names inspired by virtuesHidden sodium in everyday foods: How excess salt raises blood pressure and simple ways to reduce intake7 pricey ingredients you can easily make at homeLord Ganesha mantras that you should chant everyday’Friends’, ‘Breaking Bad’, ‘The Office’ and more: Iconic TV quotes and catchphrases that became a part of everyday lifeFive funniest sitcom characters ever: George Costanza, Michael Scott and more123Hot PicksPakistan Petrol CrisisRuturaj GaikwadKick StreamerShashi TharoorStephen CurryPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingYesterday IPL match resultVaibhav SooryavanshiStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Saudi Arabia travel ban rulesToll PaymentIran Drone StrikeHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins
Air India Ahmedabad plane crash (File photo) NEW DELHI: Ten months after the tragic Air India plane crash that killed 260 people in Ahmedabad, around 30 grieving families have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the release of the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (black box) data.Air India flight AI 171, a Boeing 787-8 en route to London, crashed into a medical college hostel complex shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12.The aircraft bursted into flames, killing 241 out of 242 people onboard and 19 individuals on the ground.The families, who met in Ahmedabad on Saturday, said that the release of the black box and CVR data is crucial to uncover the truth behind the calamity.“We want to know the truth about what caused the crash and whether there was any technical problem,” they said.Copies of their letter were also sent to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel. The families demanded that if the black box data cannot be made public, it should at least be shared privately with them.The airline’s response to the families’ plea is awaited. The AAIB had submitted its preliminary investigation report in July 2025. The final report is expected to be released in June 2026, according to PTI.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 MediaVideos‘Will Take It To Kolkata’: Pak Minister Khawaja Asif’s Fresh Threat After Rajnath’s Stern WarningBig Reveal: ISI Behind Chandigarh Attack, Global Terror Links Surface”Living In Fear”: Indian Family In Bahrain Amid Escalating Iran War‘Genius Move’: Ex-US Pilot Hails India’s Ploy To Use Rafale Decoys In Op Sindoor To Fool PakistanIndia Buys Iranian Oil After 7 Years, No Payment Hurdles Reported“Violation Of Article 21”: Owaisi Slams UCC, Says It Interferes With Religious FreedomAmid Strait Of Hormuz Tensions, Iran Calls India A ‘Cherished Partner’ As Ships Transit Safely‘Three Allegations, Zero Truth’: Raghav Chadha Counters AAP After Shock Deputy Leader Snub‘Came Through Solidly’: S Jaishankar Flags Global Risks, Says India Emerged Resilient Amid CrisisIran War, LPG Crisis Row Expose Congress Rift As Leaders Counter Rahul Gandhi’s Stand Openly123Photostories200 kg of artificially ripened mangoes seized in Hyderabad: FSSAI’s guidelines on artificial fruit ripening and 8 smart ways to check purity at homeHailee Steinfeld and Josh Allen’s love story: Inside their journey from first sightings to family of threeTop vegetarian sources of vitamin D and how to eat them to gain maximum benefits7 indoor herbs you can grow near a sunny windowBaby names inspired by virtuesHidden sodium in everyday foods: How excess salt raises blood pressure and simple ways to reduce intake7 pricey ingredients you can easily make at homeLord Ganesha mantras that you should chant everyday’Friends’, ‘Breaking Bad’, ‘The Office’ and more: Iconic TV quotes and catchphrases that became a part of everyday lifeFive funniest sitcom characters ever: George Costanza, Michael Scott and more123Hot PicksPakistan Petrol CrisisRuturaj GaikwadKick StreamerShashi TharoorStephen CurryPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingYesterday IPL match resultVaibhav SooryavanshiStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Saudi Arabia travel ban rulesToll PaymentIran Drone StrikeHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news


Air India Ahmedabad plane crash: Grieving families write to PM Modi, demand release of black box data
Air India Ahmedabad plane crash (File photo)

NEW DELHI: Ten months after the tragic Air India plane crash that killed 260 people in Ahmedabad, around 30 grieving families have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the release of the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (black box) data.Air India flight AI 171, a Boeing 787-8 en route to London, crashed into a medical college hostel complex shortly after taking off from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12.The aircraft bursted into flames, killing 241 out of 242 people onboard and 19 individuals on the ground.The families, who met in Ahmedabad on Saturday, said that the release of the black box and CVR data is crucial to uncover the truth behind the calamity.“We want to know the truth about what caused the crash and whether there was any technical problem,” they said.Copies of their letter were also sent to the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel. The families demanded that if the black box data cannot be made public, it should at least be shared privately with them.The airline’s response to the families’ plea is awaited. The AAIB had submitted its preliminary investigation report in July 2025. The final report is expected to be released in June 2026, according to PTI.



Source link

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related News

Former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, along with other former accused, on Sunday moved a recusal application before Justice Swarn Kanta Sharma in Delhi high court in the alleged liquor scam.According to Aam Aadmi Party, Kejriwal will appear and argue his person on Monday.This comes days after the high court gave final opportunity to Kejriwal and others to file their stand on a plea by the Enforcement Directorate to expunge “unwarranted” remarks made against it by the trial court while discharging them in the liquor policy case. Watch ‘I Am Not Corrupt’: Arvind Kejriwal Breaks Down As Court Frees Him, Sisodia In Excise Policy Case On March 11, led by Kejriwal appealed to Chief Justice Upadhyaya asking that the case be assigned to another “impartial” judge. In the representation, Kejriwal claimed he has a “grave, bona fide, and reasonable apprehension” that the hearing in the matter would not be impartial and neutral.He has also challenged Justice Sharma’s order of March 9, in which she put on hold a trial court direction to investigate the CBI officer who investigated the excise policy case.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 MediaVideosPakistan To Return .5 Billion UAE Debt In April Despite Reserve StrainOil India Posts Record Crude Output From Rajasthan’s Thar Desert Amid West Asia Crisis‘True Friendship’: Iran Envoy Lauds India Ties, Clarifies Deleted Thank You PostsPM Modi Assures No Seat Cut For Southern States, Pushes Women’s Quota Bill‘Will Take It To Kolkata’: Pak Minister Khawaja Asif’s Fresh Threat After Rajnath’s Stern WarningBig Reveal: ISI Behind Chandigarh Attack, Global Terror Links Surface”Living In Fear”: Indian Family In Bahrain Amid Escalating Iran War‘Genius Move’: Ex-US Pilot Hails India’s Ploy To Use Rafale Decoys In Op Sindoor To Fool PakistanIndia Buys Iranian Oil After 7 Years, No Payment Hurdles Reported“Violation Of Article 21”: Owaisi Slams UCC, Says It Interferes With Religious Freedom123PhotostoriesMeet 5 Indian singers who are setting the nation’s hottest fashion trendsTop K-pop songs from the most romantic K-dramas: ‘Goblin’, ‘Descendants of the Sun’ and more10 simple habits and tips to master emotional intelligenceYou don’t have diabetes, but your blood sugar may still be unstable: What to watch and how to fix itTop 5 premium localities in Greater Noida attracting affluent buyers and long-term investorsIs clay pot (matka) water safe? 5-step cleaning tips & summer benefits of matka waterFrom Carmen Electra to Eddie Murphy: Looking back at the most shocking short-lived celebrity weddingsBest Angelina Jolie movies of all time: ‘Girl, Interrupted’, ‘Maleficent’ and moreShiney Ahuja, Rimi Sen to Uday Chopra : The 2000s Bollywood faces who faded away from the big screenBefore age 10, these 12 simple things parents say can shape a child’s confidence and emotional strength for life123Hot PicksIPL ScoreUpdated IPL Points TableApp Leader Raghav ChadhaLPG ShortageStephen CurryPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingYesterday IPL match resultVaibhav SooryavanshiStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Saudi Arabia travel ban rulesToll PaymentIran Drone StrikeHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

Former Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, along with other former accused, on Sunday moved a recusal application before Justice Swarn Kanta Sharma in Delhi high court in the alleged liquor scam.According to Aam Aadmi Party, Kejriwal will appear and argue his person on Monday.This comes days after the high court gave final opportunity to Kejriwal and others to file their stand on a plea by the Enforcement Directorate to expunge “unwarranted” remarks made against it by the trial court while discharging them in the liquor policy case. Watch ‘I Am Not Corrupt’: Arvind Kejriwal Breaks Down As Court Frees Him, Sisodia In Excise Policy Case On March 11, led by Kejriwal appealed to Chief Justice Upadhyaya asking that the case be assigned to another “impartial” judge. In the representation, Kejriwal claimed he has a “grave, bona fide, and reasonable apprehension” that the hearing in the matter would not be impartial and neutral.He has also challenged Justice Sharma’s order of March 9, in which she put on hold a trial court direction to investigate the CBI officer who investigated the excise policy case.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 MediaVideosPakistan To Return $3.5 Billion UAE Debt In April Despite Reserve StrainOil India Posts Record Crude Output From Rajasthan’s Thar Desert Amid West Asia Crisis‘True Friendship’: Iran Envoy Lauds India Ties, Clarifies Deleted Thank You PostsPM Modi Assures No Seat Cut For Southern States, Pushes Women’s Quota Bill‘Will Take It To Kolkata’: Pak Minister Khawaja Asif’s Fresh Threat After Rajnath’s Stern WarningBig Reveal: ISI Behind Chandigarh Attack, Global Terror Links Surface”Living In Fear”: Indian Family In Bahrain Amid Escalating Iran War‘Genius Move’: Ex-US Pilot Hails India’s Ploy To Use Rafale Decoys In Op Sindoor To Fool PakistanIndia Buys Iranian Oil After 7 Years, No Payment Hurdles Reported“Violation Of Article 21”: Owaisi Slams UCC, Says It Interferes With Religious Freedom123PhotostoriesMeet 5 Indian singers who are setting the nation’s hottest fashion trendsTop K-pop songs from the most romantic K-dramas: ‘Goblin’, ‘Descendants of the Sun’ and more10 simple habits and tips to master emotional intelligenceYou don’t have diabetes, but your blood sugar may still be unstable: What to watch and how to fix itTop 5 premium localities in Greater Noida attracting affluent buyers and long-term investorsIs clay pot (matka) water safe? 5-step cleaning tips & summer benefits of matka waterFrom Carmen Electra to Eddie Murphy: Looking back at the most shocking short-lived celebrity weddingsBest Angelina Jolie movies of all time: ‘Girl, Interrupted’, ‘Maleficent’ and moreShiney Ahuja, Rimi Sen to Uday Chopra : The 2000s Bollywood faces who faded away from the big screenBefore age 10, these 12 simple things parents say can shape a child’s confidence and emotional strength for life123Hot PicksIPL ScoreUpdated IPL Points TableApp Leader Raghav ChadhaLPG ShortageStephen CurryPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingYesterday IPL match resultVaibhav SooryavanshiStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Saudi Arabia travel ban rulesToll PaymentIran Drone StrikeHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

Vamsikrishna 0
File photo: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee NEW DELHI: West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee on Sunday accused the BJP of bringing in “paid supporters” from outside the state to influence the upcoming Assembly elections, while also warning her party workers to remain alert against any possible tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).Addressing a press conference in connection with Union home minister Amit Shah’s rally in Bhabanipur, Banerjee alleged that the BJP was trying to import both outsiders and a culture of political hooliganism into Bengal. Watch Migrant Workers Hail Mamata, Say ‘Didi Hamara Bengal Ke Liye Best’ “BJP is not just bringing in voters from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. They are bringing in crowds of paid supporters from those states. And along with them, they are trying to import the worst elements of their culture into Bengal,” she said.Mamata links Bhabanipur tension to Suvendu Adhikari’s nomination rallyBanerjee also referred to the recent nomination rally of BJP leader and Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari in Bhabanipur, claiming that outsiders created disturbances during the event.“During Suvendu’s nomination rally in Bhabanipur, these outsiders were let loose. They ran amok, tearing down posters and banners, spitting on our campaign material, harassing and heckling women bystanders, and even showing shoes at the sacred Maa Kali temple,” she alleged.Stepping up her attack, the TMC supremo said the BJP’s campaign reflected a politics of intimidation and disrespect.“This is the ‘Poriborton’ they want to force upon Bengal. A culture of goondagardi, disrespect for women, and contempt for our faith and traditions. Bengal rejects this hooliganism with utter contempt,” she added.EVM warning: ‘Keep surveillance for 24 hours’Banerjee also raised concerns over the security of EVMs and urged booth-level workers to remain especially vigilant before and after polling.“Check all EVM machines thoroughly. Booth agents should also check the EVMs thoroughly… I know their plan… After voting, under the watch of CRPF and central forces, they might go inside and change the machine, so we need to keep surveillance for 24 hours. You should carefully watch that they don’t hack the EVM,” she said, as quoted by news agency ANI.Her remarks come amid an increasingly heated election campaign in the state, with both the TMC and BJP accusing each other of intimidation and attempts to influence the electoral process.Amit Shah, BJP hit back with call to ‘vote without fear’Banerjee’s attack followed Union home minister Amit Shah’s visit to West Bengal on April 2, where he campaigned for the BJP and urged voters to remove the TMC from power.Speaking at Suvendu Adhikari’s nomination filing event, Shah said, “This time no one should fear; no goon can stop the voters of Bengal. Everyone must vote without fear to uproot and throw TMC into the Bay of Bengal.”He also made a direct appeal to voters in Bhabanipur, where Banerjee is contesting.“I appeal to the Bengal people to help Suvendu Adhikari win this election. We want to make ‘Sonar Bangla’, and this is why we need to defeat TMC,” Shah said, while alleging that the ruling party had been tainted by corruption.PM Modi sharpens attack, says TMC ‘hell-bent’ on ruining law and orderThe BJP’s offensive has also been stepped up by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who on Sunday attacked the Mamata Banerjee government over law and order in the state.PM Modi, speaking at a rally in Cooch Behar, claimed the TMC government was determined to carry out the “funeral procession” of law and order in West Bengal and said “democracy is bleeding every day on the sacred soil of Bengal under the ruthless TMC administration”.He also accused the ruling party of intimidation and warned that “after May 4, the law will take its course”.The Prime Minister’s remarks came days after the alleged gherao of seven judicial officers, including three women, in Malda district over complaints linked to voter roll deletions during the SIR exercise.TMC alleges BJP trying to create unrest before pollingThe TMC, meanwhile, has accused the BJP of deliberately trying to create unrest in the run-up to the election.Banerjee has alleged the BJP is attempting to trigger violence and build a case for President’s rule before polling. She also claimed that the recent Malda “hostage” incident was orchestrated by the BJP.High-stakes battle as Bengal votes in two phasesWest Bengal’s 294-member Assembly will go to polls in two phases on April 23 and April 29, while counting of votes will take place on May 4. In the last Assembly election in 2021, the Trinamool Congress secured a landslide victory with 213 seats, while the BJP emerged as the principal opposition with 77 seats. Congress and the Left Front failed to win a single seat.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 MediaVideosPakistan To Return .5 Billion UAE Debt In April Despite Reserve StrainOil India Posts Record Crude Output From Rajasthan’s Thar Desert Amid West Asia Crisis‘True Friendship’: Iran Envoy Lauds India Ties, Clarifies Deleted Thank You PostsPM Modi Assures No Seat Cut For Southern States, Pushes Women’s Quota Bill‘Will Take It To Kolkata’: Pak Minister Khawaja Asif’s Fresh Threat After Rajnath’s Stern WarningBig Reveal: ISI Behind Chandigarh Attack, Global Terror Links Surface”Living In Fear”: Indian Family In Bahrain Amid Escalating Iran War‘Genius Move’: Ex-US Pilot Hails India’s Ploy To Use Rafale Decoys In Op Sindoor To Fool PakistanIndia Buys Iranian Oil After 7 Years, No Payment Hurdles Reported“Violation Of Article 21”: Owaisi Slams UCC, Says It Interferes With Religious Freedom123PhotostoriesMeet 5 Indian singers who are setting the nation’s hottest fashion trendsTop K-pop songs from the most romantic K-dramas: ‘Goblin’, ‘Descendants of the Sun’ and more10 simple habits and tips to master emotional intelligenceYou don’t have diabetes, but your blood sugar may still be unstable: What to watch and how to fix itTop 5 premium localities in Greater Noida attracting affluent buyers and long-term investorsIs clay pot (matka) water safe? 5-step cleaning tips & summer benefits of matka waterFrom Carmen Electra to Eddie Murphy: Looking back at the most shocking short-lived celebrity weddingsBest Angelina Jolie movies of all time: ‘Girl, Interrupted’, ‘Maleficent’ and moreShiney Ahuja, Rimi Sen to Uday Chopra : The 2000s Bollywood faces who faded away from the big screenBefore age 10, these 12 simple things parents say can shape a child’s confidence and emotional strength for life123Hot PicksIPL ScoreUpdated IPL Points TableApp Leader Raghav ChadhaLPG ShortageStephen CurryPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingYesterday IPL match resultVaibhav SooryavanshiStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Saudi Arabia travel ban rulesToll PaymentIran Drone StrikeHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

File photo: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee NEW DELHI: West Bengal chief minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee on Sunday accused the BJP of bringing in “paid supporters” from outside the state to influence the upcoming Assembly elections, while also warning her party workers to remain alert against any possible tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).Addressing a press conference in connection with Union home minister Amit Shah’s rally in Bhabanipur, Banerjee alleged that the BJP was trying to import both outsiders and a culture of political hooliganism into Bengal. Watch Migrant Workers Hail Mamata, Say ‘Didi Hamara Bengal Ke Liye Best’ “BJP is not just bringing in voters from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. They are bringing in crowds of paid supporters from those states. And along with them, they are trying to import the worst elements of their culture into Bengal,” she said.Mamata links Bhabanipur tension to Suvendu Adhikari’s nomination rallyBanerjee also referred to the recent nomination rally of BJP leader and Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari in Bhabanipur, claiming that outsiders created disturbances during the event.“During Suvendu’s nomination rally in Bhabanipur, these outsiders were let loose. They ran amok, tearing down posters and banners, spitting on our campaign material, harassing and heckling women bystanders, and even showing shoes at the sacred Maa Kali temple,” she alleged.Stepping up her attack, the TMC supremo said the BJP’s campaign reflected a politics of intimidation and disrespect.“This is the ‘Poriborton’ they want to force upon Bengal. A culture of goondagardi, disrespect for women, and contempt for our faith and traditions. Bengal rejects this hooliganism with utter contempt,” she added.EVM warning: ‘Keep surveillance for 24 hours’Banerjee also raised concerns over the security of EVMs and urged booth-level workers to remain especially vigilant before and after polling.“Check all EVM machines thoroughly. Booth agents should also check the EVMs thoroughly… I know their plan… After voting, under the watch of CRPF and central forces, they might go inside and change the machine, so we need to keep surveillance for 24 hours. You should carefully watch that they don’t hack the EVM,” she said, as quoted by news agency ANI.Her remarks come amid an increasingly heated election campaign in the state, with both the TMC and BJP accusing each other of intimidation and attempts to influence the electoral process.Amit Shah, BJP hit back with call to ‘vote without fear’Banerjee’s attack followed Union home minister Amit Shah’s visit to West Bengal on April 2, where he campaigned for the BJP and urged voters to remove the TMC from power.Speaking at Suvendu Adhikari’s nomination filing event, Shah said, “This time no one should fear; no goon can stop the voters of Bengal. Everyone must vote without fear to uproot and throw TMC into the Bay of Bengal.”He also made a direct appeal to voters in Bhabanipur, where Banerjee is contesting.“I appeal to the Bengal people to help Suvendu Adhikari win this election. We want to make ‘Sonar Bangla’, and this is why we need to defeat TMC,” Shah said, while alleging that the ruling party had been tainted by corruption.PM Modi sharpens attack, says TMC ‘hell-bent’ on ruining law and orderThe BJP’s offensive has also been stepped up by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who on Sunday attacked the Mamata Banerjee government over law and order in the state.PM Modi, speaking at a rally in Cooch Behar, claimed the TMC government was determined to carry out the “funeral procession” of law and order in West Bengal and said “democracy is bleeding every day on the sacred soil of Bengal under the ruthless TMC administration”.He also accused the ruling party of intimidation and warned that “after May 4, the law will take its course”.The Prime Minister’s remarks came days after the alleged gherao of seven judicial officers, including three women, in Malda district over complaints linked to voter roll deletions during the SIR exercise.TMC alleges BJP trying to create unrest before pollingThe TMC, meanwhile, has accused the BJP of deliberately trying to create unrest in the run-up to the election.Banerjee has alleged the BJP is attempting to trigger violence and build a case for President’s rule before polling. She also claimed that the recent Malda “hostage” incident was orchestrated by the BJP.High-stakes battle as Bengal votes in two phasesWest Bengal’s 294-member Assembly will go to polls in two phases on April 23 and April 29, while counting of votes will take place on May 4. In the last Assembly election in 2021, the Trinamool Congress secured a landslide victory with 213 seats, while the BJP emerged as the principal opposition with 77 seats. Congress and the Left Front failed to win a single seat.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 MediaVideosPakistan To Return $3.5 Billion UAE Debt In April Despite Reserve StrainOil India Posts Record Crude Output From Rajasthan’s Thar Desert Amid West Asia Crisis‘True Friendship’: Iran Envoy Lauds India Ties, Clarifies Deleted Thank You PostsPM Modi Assures No Seat Cut For Southern States, Pushes Women’s Quota Bill‘Will Take It To Kolkata’: Pak Minister Khawaja Asif’s Fresh Threat After Rajnath’s Stern WarningBig Reveal: ISI Behind Chandigarh Attack, Global Terror Links Surface”Living In Fear”: Indian Family In Bahrain Amid Escalating Iran War‘Genius Move’: Ex-US Pilot Hails India’s Ploy To Use Rafale Decoys In Op Sindoor To Fool PakistanIndia Buys Iranian Oil After 7 Years, No Payment Hurdles Reported“Violation Of Article 21”: Owaisi Slams UCC, Says It Interferes With Religious Freedom123PhotostoriesMeet 5 Indian singers who are setting the nation’s hottest fashion trendsTop K-pop songs from the most romantic K-dramas: ‘Goblin’, ‘Descendants of the Sun’ and more10 simple habits and tips to master emotional intelligenceYou don’t have diabetes, but your blood sugar may still be unstable: What to watch and how to fix itTop 5 premium localities in Greater Noida attracting affluent buyers and long-term investorsIs clay pot (matka) water safe? 5-step cleaning tips & summer benefits of matka waterFrom Carmen Electra to Eddie Murphy: Looking back at the most shocking short-lived celebrity weddingsBest Angelina Jolie movies of all time: ‘Girl, Interrupted’, ‘Maleficent’ and moreShiney Ahuja, Rimi Sen to Uday Chopra : The 2000s Bollywood faces who faded away from the big screenBefore age 10, these 12 simple things parents say can shape a child’s confidence and emotional strength for life123Hot PicksIPL ScoreUpdated IPL Points TableApp Leader Raghav ChadhaLPG ShortageStephen CurryPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingYesterday IPL match resultVaibhav SooryavanshiStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Saudi Arabia travel ban rulesToll PaymentIran Drone StrikeHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

Vamsikrishna 0
The Central Information Commission (CIC) has pulled up the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) for denying information on an RTI plea seeking disclosure of whether bidders in railway tenders had declared links to the Rail Neer scam and related cases probed by central agencies, PTI reported.The applicant had sought details on whether companies bidding for tenders disclosed any cases registered by the CBI or the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against them, including their alleged involvement in the 2015 Rail Neer scam.RTI sought disclosure of CBI, ED casesThe RTI application specifically asked if bidders had declared that they were “accused in the famous Rail Neer scam” and that the CBI had “registered an FIR (RC-DAI-2015-A-0032) against them”.It also sought details on whether bidders disclosed that the ED had “registered a case under sections 120B read with Section 420 of the IPC and 13(2) read with 13(1)(d) of the Prevention of Corruption Act”.Further, the applicant asked if companies informed authorities about developments such as raids, cash seizures, and whether a “chargesheet” or “complaint” had been filed by the agencies.CIC flags ‘mechanical’ denial by IRCTCIRCTC denied the information citing exemption under Section 8(1)(d) of the RTI Act, which covers commercial confidence and trade secrets. The respondent officials maintained that they had “categorically informed the appellant” and that the first appellate authority upheld the reply.However, the CIC found the response inadequate, noting it “merely states the exemption clause without providing any reasons or justification whatsoever”.“A bare or mechanical reference to an exemption clause, without explaining its applicability to the information sought, does not constitute a valid or speaking reply under the RTI Act,” the commission said.Emphasising that denial must be supported by “cogent reasons”, the CIC added that “the burden of proving the applicability of an exemption squarely lies on the public authority”.Holding the reply deficient, the commission said it was “not in consonance with the provisions of the RTI Act” and directed IRCTC to revisit the application and issue a “fresh, reasoned reply”.About the AuthorTOI Business DeskThe TOI Business Desk is a vigilant and dedicated team of journalists committed to delivering the latest and most relevant business news from around the world to readers of The Times of India. The primary focus of the TOI Business Desk is to keep a watchful eye on the global business landscape, covering a wide spectrum of industries, markets, economic trends, in-depth analysis, exclusive reports and breaking stories that impact businesses and economies. With a mission to provide valuable insights and updates, the desk ensures that TOI readers are well-informed about the ever-changing and dynamic world of commerce and can navigate the complexities of the business world.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosOil India Posts Record Crude Output From Rajasthan’s Thar Desert Amid West Asia Crisis‘True Friendship’: Iran Envoy Lauds India Ties, Clarifies Deleted Thank You PostsPM Modi Assures No Seat Cut For Southern States, Pushes Women’s Quota Bill‘Will Take It To Kolkata’: Pak Minister Khawaja Asif’s Fresh Threat After Rajnath’s Stern WarningBig Reveal: ISI Behind Chandigarh Attack, Global Terror Links Surface”Living In Fear”: Indian Family In Bahrain Amid Escalating Iran War‘Genius Move’: Ex-US Pilot Hails India’s Ploy To Use Rafale Decoys In Op Sindoor To Fool PakistanIndia Buys Iranian Oil After 7 Years, No Payment Hurdles Reported“Violation Of Article 21”: Owaisi Slams UCC, Says It Interferes With Religious FreedomAmid Strait Of Hormuz Tensions, Iran Calls India A ‘Cherished Partner’ As Ships Transit Safely123PhotostoriesBest Angelina Jolie movies of all time: ‘Girl, Interrupted’, ‘Maleficent’ and moreShiney Ahuja, Rimi Sen to Uday Chopra : The 2000s Bollywood faces who faded away from the big screenBefore age 10, these 12 simple things parents say can shape a child’s confidence and emotional strength for lifeWhy you feel lonely even around people (And 5 ways to feel truly loved)Divyanka Tripathi and Vivek Dahiya host a heartwarming baby shower ceremony; co-star Ruhaanika Dhawan, actor Dheeraj Dhoopar, and others joinMumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet train corridor: 5 km tunnel excavation complete — why it’s a key step toward operationsBig relief for commuters: Noida plans 10-lane Pushta Road, new link to ease Delhi–Jewar airport traffic; what we knowTilak Varma’s multi-storey home in Hyderabad is rooted in humble beginnings, now a stylish residence shaped by cricket fame and family valuesRashmika Mandanna birthday special: Best performances to watch on OTT, from ‘Animal’ to ‘Chhaava’Stephen Colbert, Steve Carell and more: 6 Hollywood icons who shared apartments before hitting it big123Hot PicksIPL ScoreUpdated IPL Points TableApp Leader Raghav ChadhaLPG ShortageStephen CurryPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingYesterday IPL match resultVaibhav SooryavanshiStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Saudi Arabia travel ban rulesToll PaymentIran Drone StrikeHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

The Central Information Commission (CIC) has pulled up the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) for denying information on an RTI plea seeking disclosure of whether bidders in railway tenders had declared links to the Rail Neer scam and related cases probed by central agencies, PTI reported.The applicant had sought details on whether companies bidding for tenders disclosed any cases registered by the CBI or the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against them, including their alleged involvement in the 2015 Rail Neer scam.RTI sought disclosure of CBI, ED casesThe RTI application specifically asked if bidders had declared that they were “accused in the famous Rail Neer scam” and that the CBI had “registered an FIR (RC-DAI-2015-A-0032) against them”.It also sought details on whether bidders disclosed that the ED had “registered a case under sections 120B read with Section 420 of the IPC and 13(2) read with 13(1)(d) of the Prevention of Corruption Act”.Further, the applicant asked if companies informed authorities about developments such as raids, cash seizures, and whether a “chargesheet” or “complaint” had been filed by the agencies.CIC flags ‘mechanical’ denial by IRCTCIRCTC denied the information citing exemption under Section 8(1)(d) of the RTI Act, which covers commercial confidence and trade secrets. The respondent officials maintained that they had “categorically informed the appellant” and that the first appellate authority upheld the reply.However, the CIC found the response inadequate, noting it “merely states the exemption clause without providing any reasons or justification whatsoever”.“A bare or mechanical reference to an exemption clause, without explaining its applicability to the information sought, does not constitute a valid or speaking reply under the RTI Act,” the commission said.Emphasising that denial must be supported by “cogent reasons”, the CIC added that “the burden of proving the applicability of an exemption squarely lies on the public authority”.Holding the reply deficient, the commission said it was “not in consonance with the provisions of the RTI Act” and directed IRCTC to revisit the application and issue a “fresh, reasoned reply”.About the AuthorTOI Business DeskThe TOI Business Desk is a vigilant and dedicated team of journalists committed to delivering the latest and most relevant business news from around the world to readers of The Times of India. The primary focus of the TOI Business Desk is to keep a watchful eye on the global business landscape, covering a wide spectrum of industries, markets, economic trends, in-depth analysis, exclusive reports and breaking stories that impact businesses and economies. With a mission to provide valuable insights and updates, the desk ensures that TOI readers are well-informed about the ever-changing and dynamic world of commerce and can navigate the complexities of the business world.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosOil India Posts Record Crude Output From Rajasthan’s Thar Desert Amid West Asia Crisis‘True Friendship’: Iran Envoy Lauds India Ties, Clarifies Deleted Thank You PostsPM Modi Assures No Seat Cut For Southern States, Pushes Women’s Quota Bill‘Will Take It To Kolkata’: Pak Minister Khawaja Asif’s Fresh Threat After Rajnath’s Stern WarningBig Reveal: ISI Behind Chandigarh Attack, Global Terror Links Surface”Living In Fear”: Indian Family In Bahrain Amid Escalating Iran War‘Genius Move’: Ex-US Pilot Hails India’s Ploy To Use Rafale Decoys In Op Sindoor To Fool PakistanIndia Buys Iranian Oil After 7 Years, No Payment Hurdles Reported“Violation Of Article 21”: Owaisi Slams UCC, Says It Interferes With Religious FreedomAmid Strait Of Hormuz Tensions, Iran Calls India A ‘Cherished Partner’ As Ships Transit Safely123PhotostoriesBest Angelina Jolie movies of all time: ‘Girl, Interrupted’, ‘Maleficent’ and moreShiney Ahuja, Rimi Sen to Uday Chopra : The 2000s Bollywood faces who faded away from the big screenBefore age 10, these 12 simple things parents say can shape a child’s confidence and emotional strength for lifeWhy you feel lonely even around people (And 5 ways to feel truly loved)Divyanka Tripathi and Vivek Dahiya host a heartwarming baby shower ceremony; co-star Ruhaanika Dhawan, actor Dheeraj Dhoopar, and others joinMumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet train corridor: 5 km tunnel excavation complete — why it’s a key step toward operationsBig relief for commuters: Noida plans 10-lane Pushta Road, new link to ease Delhi–Jewar airport traffic; what we knowTilak Varma’s multi-storey home in Hyderabad is rooted in humble beginnings, now a stylish residence shaped by cricket fame and family valuesRashmika Mandanna birthday special: Best performances to watch on OTT, from ‘Animal’ to ‘Chhaava’Stephen Colbert, Steve Carell and more: 6 Hollywood icons who shared apartments before hitting it big123Hot PicksIPL ScoreUpdated IPL Points TableApp Leader Raghav ChadhaLPG ShortageStephen CurryPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingYesterday IPL match resultVaibhav SooryavanshiStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Saudi Arabia travel ban rulesToll PaymentIran Drone StrikeHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

Vamsikrishna 0
Generative image On National Maritime Day, when India pauses to mark the historic voyage of its first modern merchant ship and celebrate a legacy that stretches back to ancient seafarers, the focus is usually on pride. This year, however, it may also be a moment to look harder at the seas that sustain it. In many ways, the turbulence in global sea lanes resembles a modern samudra manthan, a churning of the oceans where both risk (poison) and opportunity (nectar) surface together, testing how nations respond.The churn is no longer distant as the circumstances are edged with urgency. Far from ceremonial speeches and commemorative events, India’s maritime reality is unfolding in some of the world’s most volatile waters, where tankers and cargo ships navigate not just distance but danger! The challenge is not only to shield these lifelines, but to turn this churn into advantage, extracting strategic and economic gains from a crisis that cannot be wished away.On most days, India’s economic heartbeat is invisible. It does not pulse through stock exchanges or policy corridors but across vast, restless waters where ships move quietly between continents. Yet, when conflict erupts in narrow choke points like the Strait of Hormuz, that invisible system becomes the country’s most visible vulnerability. Major chokepoints The ongoing tensions have done exactly that, forcing India to confront a reality it has long managed but rarely foregrounded.Its growth, its energy security and its strategic autonomy are all tied to sea lanes that run through some of the most volatile regions on the Earth.A narrow strait that powers a giant economyThe Strait of Hormuz is not just another maritime passage. It is the artery through which nearly a fifth of the world’s oil flows, and for India, its importance is even more acute. Around 80 per cent of India’s energy imports pass through this corridor, making it a single point of failure for a country that is among the world’s largest energy consumers. The recent escalation involving Iran, Israel and the United States has demonstrated how quickly this artery can constrict. Importance of Indian oceanTanker traffic has slowed, vessels have been stranded and insurance costs have surged. For India, this has translated into immediate concerns over supply disruptions, rising crude prices and broader macroeconomic stress.The numbers strikingly reflect the scale of exposure. India imports more than 85 per cent of its crude oil and a significant share of its natural gas. Nearly half of that crude and over 60 per cent of LNG and LPG have historically moved through Hormuz. This is not just an energy issue but a systemic one. When oil flows are disrupted, inflation rises, the rupee weakens and industrial costs climb.Operation Sankalp and the navy’s silent watchAs tensions escalated, India responded not just through diplomacy but through deployment. Under Operation Sankalp, Indian naval warships have been maintaining a constant vigil in the Gulf region, escorting merchant vessels and ensuring safe passage through high-risk waters.At any given moment, dozens of Indian seafarers and vessels operate in and around the Persian Gulf. During the current crisis, several India-bound ships carrying crude oil and LPG were stranded or forced to alter routes. The navy’s role has been to provide a security umbrella, deterring threats ranging from missile strikes to drone attacks.The deployment of advanced warships such as INS Surat reflects a broader shift in India’s maritime posture. The navy is no longer confined to coastal defence. It is increasingly tasked with protecting sea lines of communication that stretch from the Gulf of Aden to the western Pacific.Trade rides the wavesEnergy is only one part of the story. Nearly 95 per cent of India’s trade by volume moves by sea. From crude oil and LNG to coal, fertilisers and electronics, the country’s economic lifeline is maritime.The Strait of Hormuz is central to this network, but it is not the only chokepoint. The Red Sea and the Suez Canal form another critical corridor linking India to Europe. Disruptions in these regions create a double vulnerability, forcing ships to take longer routes around the Cape of Good Hope, increasing costs and delays. Principal commodities handled by major portsIndia’s trade exposure to Gulf economies is also significant. About 16 per cent of its total trade is linked to this region, making any disruption not just an energy crisis but a broader economic challenge.Ports as gateways to prosperityIndia’s coastline stretches over 7,500 kilometres and hosts a network of major and minor ports that serve as gateways to global trade. Ports such as Mumbai, Kandla, Visakhapatnam, Chennai and Kochi handle millions of tonnes of cargo every year. Ports in IndiaEach port has its own specialisation. Western ports like Kandla and Mumbai handle large volumes of crude oil and petroleum products due to their proximity to the Gulf. Eastern ports such as Paradip and Visakhapatnam are crucial for coal and mineral exports. Southern ports like Chennai and Tuticorin play a key role in container traffic and industrial goods.The principal commodities moving through these ports reflect the structure of India’s economy. Crude oil, LNG, coal, iron ore, fertilisers and containerised goods dominate the cargo mix. This heavy reliance on imported energy and raw materials further amplifies the importance of secure maritime routes.Government initiatives such as Sagarmala aim to modernise ports, improve connectivity and reduce logistics costs. While these efforts enhance efficiency, they do not eliminate the risks posed by external chokepoints like Hormuz. Sagarmala ProgrammeThe IMEC factor and the search for alternativesThe India-Middle-East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) has emerged as a strategic response to some of these vulnerabilities. By combining maritime and overland routes, it aims to create an alternative pathway linking India to Europe through the Middle East.The corridor is significant not just for trade but for geopolitics. It reduces dependence on traditional routes and offers a framework for deeper economic integration with Gulf and European partners. However, it is not a complete substitute for existing sea lanes. Maritime routes will continue to dominate due to their scale and cost efficiency. IMECWhat IMEC does offer is redundancy. In a world where chokepoints can be disrupted by conflict, having multiple pathways becomes a strategic necessity rather than a luxury.A legacy written in the wavesIndia’s maritime story did not begin with modern trade or globalisation. It stretches back thousands of years to the Harappan civilisation, where ports like Lothal served as hubs of international commerce.Archaeological evidence shows that Harappan traders navigated the Arabian Sea, exporting goods such as carnelian beads to Mesopotamia. The construction of a sophisticated dockyard at Lothal demonstrates an advanced understanding of tides and maritime engineering.Ancient texts further reinforce this legacy. The Rigveda contains references to ocean voyages and ships with multiple oars. The Arthashastra describes administrative structures for managing maritime trade, including officials responsible for overseeing navigation and taxation.Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted India’s maritime heritage and lauded the contribution of those associated with the sector on National Maritime Day.In a post on X, Modi said the dedication of people linked to the maritime sector plays a vital role in strengthening the country’s economy, trade and connectivity.”On National Maritime Day, we recall India’s maritime heritage and the invaluable contribution of all those associated with this sector. Their dedication strengthens our economy, trade and connectivity,” he said.Empires that ruled the seasIndia’s maritime prowess continued through successive empires. The Mauryas maintained a structured naval administration, while the Satavahanas facilitated trade with the Roman world. Roman coins found in India testify to the scale of this exchange.The Cholas represent the high point of India’s naval power. Their fleets dominated the Bay of Bengal and extended influence into Southeast Asia, conducting expeditions that were both military and commercial. Their maritime networks connected India to China and beyond, shaping trade and cultural exchange across the region. Chola Territories during Rajendra CholaThis long history signifies a crucial point. Maritime activity has always been central to India’s economic and strategic identity. The oceans were not barriers but bridges.From decline to resurgenceIndia’s maritime power declined during the colonial period, as European powers established control over sea routes. Indigenous shipbuilding and naval capabilities were gradually eroded, and India became dependent on foreign-controlled maritime systems.The post-independence period marked a slow but steady resurgence. The Indian Navy evolved into a modern force capable of operating across the Indian Ocean. Anti-piracy missions in the Gulf of Aden and humanitarian operations have reinforced its role as a net security provider in the region.Today, initiatives such as SAGAR and MAHASAGAR reflect a broader strategic vision. They emphasise security, cooperation and sustainable development across the Indian Ocean region, positioning India as a key maritime actor.The new age of maritime riskThe Hormuz crisis has highlighted a fundamental shift in the nature of maritime threats. Unlike piracy, which involves non-state actors, the current risks stem from state-level conflicts involving advanced weaponry such as missiles and drones.This changes the calculus of maritime security. Protecting sea lanes now requires not just naval presence but also intelligence, coordination and international cooperation. It also demands integration with economic and diplomatic strategies.India’s response has already begun to reflect this shift. Enhanced monitoring systems, regulatory measures and multi-agency coordination have been put in place to manage the crisis.Building resilience in uncertain watersThe immediate response to the Hormuz disruption has been diversification. India has expanded its pool of energy suppliers, reducing reliance on a single region. This is a necessary but not sufficient step.Long-term resilience requires a broader strategy. Expanding strategic petroleum reserves can provide a buffer against short-term disruptions. Investing in alternative routes and infrastructure can reduce dependence on chokepoints. Strengthening naval capabilities can enhance the ability to secure sea lanes.Equally important is integrating maritime considerations into economic planning. Energy security, trade policy and foreign relations must all account for the risks associated with maritime routes.National Maritime Day is often seen as a celebration of India’s seafaring heritage. This year, it carries a more urgent message. The seas that have enabled India’s rise are also its most significant vulnerability.The Hormuz crisis is not an isolated event but a glimpse into a future where maritime disruptions may become more frequent. In such a world, the security of sea lanes is not just a naval concern but a national priority.India’s journey from the docks of Lothal to the modern ports of Mumbai and Visakhapatnam reflects a continuity of maritime engagement. The challenge now is to adapt that legacy to a new era of uncertainty.When the oceans are secure, India’s economy flows smoothly. When they are disrupted, the consequences ripple across every sector.In the end, the story of India’s maritime lifeline is not just about ships and routes. It is about resilience, strategy and the ability to navigate a world where the calmest waters can suddenly turn turbulent.About the AuthorRajeev SinghRajeev Singh is a Digital Content Producer with The Times of India. He covers politics, policies, defence, and conflicts for readers curious to know their implications. He loves digging into legal maxims and political trivia. On off days, when not turning pages or learning русский, he lives in the reverie of “what ifs” and “how abouts.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPakistan To Return .5 Billion UAE Debt In April Despite Reserve StrainOil India Posts Record Crude Output From Rajasthan’s Thar Desert Amid West Asia Crisis‘True Friendship’: Iran Envoy Lauds India Ties, Clarifies Deleted Thank You PostsPM Modi Assures No Seat Cut For Southern States, Pushes Women’s Quota Bill‘Will Take It To Kolkata’: Pak Minister Khawaja Asif’s Fresh Threat After Rajnath’s Stern WarningBig Reveal: ISI Behind Chandigarh Attack, Global Terror Links Surface”Living In Fear”: Indian Family In Bahrain Amid Escalating Iran War‘Genius Move’: Ex-US Pilot Hails India’s Ploy To Use Rafale Decoys In Op Sindoor To Fool PakistanIndia Buys Iranian Oil After 7 Years, No Payment Hurdles Reported“Violation Of Article 21”: Owaisi Slams UCC, Says It Interferes With Religious Freedom123PhotostoriesIs clay pot (matka) water safe? 5-step cleaning tips & summer benefits of matka waterFrom Carmen Electra to Eddie Murphy: Looking back at the most shocking short-lived celebrity weddingsBest Angelina Jolie movies of all time: ‘Girl, Interrupted’, ‘Maleficent’ and moreShiney Ahuja, Rimi Sen to Uday Chopra : The 2000s Bollywood faces who faded away from the big screenBefore age 10, these 12 simple things parents say can shape a child’s confidence and emotional strength for lifeDivyanka Tripathi and Vivek Dahiya host a heartwarming baby shower ceremony; co-star Ruhaanika Dhawan, actor Dheeraj Dhoopar, and others joinMumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet train corridor: 5 km tunnel excavation complete — why it’s a key step toward operationsBig relief for commuters: Noida plans 10-lane Pushta Road, new link to ease Delhi–Jewar airport traffic; what we knowTilak Varma’s multi-storey home in Hyderabad is rooted in humble beginnings, now a stylish residence shaped by cricket fame and family valuesRashmika Mandanna birthday special: Best performances to watch on OTT, from ‘Animal’ to ‘Chhaava’123Hot PicksIPL ScoreUpdated IPL Points TableApp Leader Raghav ChadhaLPG ShortageStephen CurryPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingYesterday IPL match resultVaibhav SooryavanshiStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Saudi Arabia travel ban rulesToll PaymentIran Drone StrikeHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

Generative image On National Maritime Day, when India pauses to mark the historic voyage of its first modern merchant ship and celebrate a legacy that stretches back to ancient seafarers, the focus is usually on pride. This year, however, it may also be a moment to look harder at the seas that sustain it. In many ways, the turbulence in global sea lanes resembles a modern samudra manthan, a churning of the oceans where both risk (poison) and opportunity (nectar) surface together, testing how nations respond.The churn is no longer distant as the circumstances are edged with urgency. Far from ceremonial speeches and commemorative events, India’s maritime reality is unfolding in some of the world’s most volatile waters, where tankers and cargo ships navigate not just distance but danger! The challenge is not only to shield these lifelines, but to turn this churn into advantage, extracting strategic and economic gains from a crisis that cannot be wished away.On most days, India’s economic heartbeat is invisible. It does not pulse through stock exchanges or policy corridors but across vast, restless waters where ships move quietly between continents. Yet, when conflict erupts in narrow choke points like the Strait of Hormuz, that invisible system becomes the country’s most visible vulnerability. Major chokepoints The ongoing tensions have done exactly that, forcing India to confront a reality it has long managed but rarely foregrounded.Its growth, its energy security and its strategic autonomy are all tied to sea lanes that run through some of the most volatile regions on the Earth.A narrow strait that powers a giant economyThe Strait of Hormuz is not just another maritime passage. It is the artery through which nearly a fifth of the world’s oil flows, and for India, its importance is even more acute. Around 80 per cent of India’s energy imports pass through this corridor, making it a single point of failure for a country that is among the world’s largest energy consumers. The recent escalation involving Iran, Israel and the United States has demonstrated how quickly this artery can constrict. Importance of Indian oceanTanker traffic has slowed, vessels have been stranded and insurance costs have surged. For India, this has translated into immediate concerns over supply disruptions, rising crude prices and broader macroeconomic stress.The numbers strikingly reflect the scale of exposure. India imports more than 85 per cent of its crude oil and a significant share of its natural gas. Nearly half of that crude and over 60 per cent of LNG and LPG have historically moved through Hormuz. This is not just an energy issue but a systemic one. When oil flows are disrupted, inflation rises, the rupee weakens and industrial costs climb.Operation Sankalp and the navy’s silent watchAs tensions escalated, India responded not just through diplomacy but through deployment. Under Operation Sankalp, Indian naval warships have been maintaining a constant vigil in the Gulf region, escorting merchant vessels and ensuring safe passage through high-risk waters.At any given moment, dozens of Indian seafarers and vessels operate in and around the Persian Gulf. During the current crisis, several India-bound ships carrying crude oil and LPG were stranded or forced to alter routes. The navy’s role has been to provide a security umbrella, deterring threats ranging from missile strikes to drone attacks.The deployment of advanced warships such as INS Surat reflects a broader shift in India’s maritime posture. The navy is no longer confined to coastal defence. It is increasingly tasked with protecting sea lines of communication that stretch from the Gulf of Aden to the western Pacific.Trade rides the wavesEnergy is only one part of the story. Nearly 95 per cent of India’s trade by volume moves by sea. From crude oil and LNG to coal, fertilisers and electronics, the country’s economic lifeline is maritime.The Strait of Hormuz is central to this network, but it is not the only chokepoint. The Red Sea and the Suez Canal form another critical corridor linking India to Europe. Disruptions in these regions create a double vulnerability, forcing ships to take longer routes around the Cape of Good Hope, increasing costs and delays. Principal commodities handled by major portsIndia’s trade exposure to Gulf economies is also significant. About 16 per cent of its total trade is linked to this region, making any disruption not just an energy crisis but a broader economic challenge.Ports as gateways to prosperityIndia’s coastline stretches over 7,500 kilometres and hosts a network of major and minor ports that serve as gateways to global trade. Ports such as Mumbai, Kandla, Visakhapatnam, Chennai and Kochi handle millions of tonnes of cargo every year. Ports in IndiaEach port has its own specialisation. Western ports like Kandla and Mumbai handle large volumes of crude oil and petroleum products due to their proximity to the Gulf. Eastern ports such as Paradip and Visakhapatnam are crucial for coal and mineral exports. Southern ports like Chennai and Tuticorin play a key role in container traffic and industrial goods.The principal commodities moving through these ports reflect the structure of India’s economy. Crude oil, LNG, coal, iron ore, fertilisers and containerised goods dominate the cargo mix. This heavy reliance on imported energy and raw materials further amplifies the importance of secure maritime routes.Government initiatives such as Sagarmala aim to modernise ports, improve connectivity and reduce logistics costs. While these efforts enhance efficiency, they do not eliminate the risks posed by external chokepoints like Hormuz. Sagarmala ProgrammeThe IMEC factor and the search for alternativesThe India-Middle-East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) has emerged as a strategic response to some of these vulnerabilities. By combining maritime and overland routes, it aims to create an alternative pathway linking India to Europe through the Middle East.The corridor is significant not just for trade but for geopolitics. It reduces dependence on traditional routes and offers a framework for deeper economic integration with Gulf and European partners. However, it is not a complete substitute for existing sea lanes. Maritime routes will continue to dominate due to their scale and cost efficiency. IMECWhat IMEC does offer is redundancy. In a world where chokepoints can be disrupted by conflict, having multiple pathways becomes a strategic necessity rather than a luxury.A legacy written in the wavesIndia’s maritime story did not begin with modern trade or globalisation. It stretches back thousands of years to the Harappan civilisation, where ports like Lothal served as hubs of international commerce.Archaeological evidence shows that Harappan traders navigated the Arabian Sea, exporting goods such as carnelian beads to Mesopotamia. The construction of a sophisticated dockyard at Lothal demonstrates an advanced understanding of tides and maritime engineering.Ancient texts further reinforce this legacy. The Rigveda contains references to ocean voyages and ships with multiple oars. The Arthashastra describes administrative structures for managing maritime trade, including officials responsible for overseeing navigation and taxation.Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted India’s maritime heritage and lauded the contribution of those associated with the sector on National Maritime Day.In a post on X, Modi said the dedication of people linked to the maritime sector plays a vital role in strengthening the country’s economy, trade and connectivity.”On National Maritime Day, we recall India’s maritime heritage and the invaluable contribution of all those associated with this sector. Their dedication strengthens our economy, trade and connectivity,” he said.Empires that ruled the seasIndia’s maritime prowess continued through successive empires. The Mauryas maintained a structured naval administration, while the Satavahanas facilitated trade with the Roman world. Roman coins found in India testify to the scale of this exchange.The Cholas represent the high point of India’s naval power. Their fleets dominated the Bay of Bengal and extended influence into Southeast Asia, conducting expeditions that were both military and commercial. Their maritime networks connected India to China and beyond, shaping trade and cultural exchange across the region. Chola Territories during Rajendra CholaThis long history signifies a crucial point. Maritime activity has always been central to India’s economic and strategic identity. The oceans were not barriers but bridges.From decline to resurgenceIndia’s maritime power declined during the colonial period, as European powers established control over sea routes. Indigenous shipbuilding and naval capabilities were gradually eroded, and India became dependent on foreign-controlled maritime systems.The post-independence period marked a slow but steady resurgence. The Indian Navy evolved into a modern force capable of operating across the Indian Ocean. Anti-piracy missions in the Gulf of Aden and humanitarian operations have reinforced its role as a net security provider in the region.Today, initiatives such as SAGAR and MAHASAGAR reflect a broader strategic vision. They emphasise security, cooperation and sustainable development across the Indian Ocean region, positioning India as a key maritime actor.The new age of maritime riskThe Hormuz crisis has highlighted a fundamental shift in the nature of maritime threats. Unlike piracy, which involves non-state actors, the current risks stem from state-level conflicts involving advanced weaponry such as missiles and drones.This changes the calculus of maritime security. Protecting sea lanes now requires not just naval presence but also intelligence, coordination and international cooperation. It also demands integration with economic and diplomatic strategies.India’s response has already begun to reflect this shift. Enhanced monitoring systems, regulatory measures and multi-agency coordination have been put in place to manage the crisis.Building resilience in uncertain watersThe immediate response to the Hormuz disruption has been diversification. India has expanded its pool of energy suppliers, reducing reliance on a single region. This is a necessary but not sufficient step.Long-term resilience requires a broader strategy. Expanding strategic petroleum reserves can provide a buffer against short-term disruptions. Investing in alternative routes and infrastructure can reduce dependence on chokepoints. Strengthening naval capabilities can enhance the ability to secure sea lanes.Equally important is integrating maritime considerations into economic planning. Energy security, trade policy and foreign relations must all account for the risks associated with maritime routes.National Maritime Day is often seen as a celebration of India’s seafaring heritage. This year, it carries a more urgent message. The seas that have enabled India’s rise are also its most significant vulnerability.The Hormuz crisis is not an isolated event but a glimpse into a future where maritime disruptions may become more frequent. In such a world, the security of sea lanes is not just a naval concern but a national priority.India’s journey from the docks of Lothal to the modern ports of Mumbai and Visakhapatnam reflects a continuity of maritime engagement. The challenge now is to adapt that legacy to a new era of uncertainty.When the oceans are secure, India’s economy flows smoothly. When they are disrupted, the consequences ripple across every sector.In the end, the story of India’s maritime lifeline is not just about ships and routes. It is about resilience, strategy and the ability to navigate a world where the calmest waters can suddenly turn turbulent.About the AuthorRajeev SinghRajeev Singh is a Digital Content Producer with The Times of India. He covers politics, policies, defence, and conflicts for readers curious to know their implications. He loves digging into legal maxims and political trivia. On off days, when not turning pages or learning русский, he lives in the reverie of “what ifs” and “how abouts.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPakistan To Return $3.5 Billion UAE Debt In April Despite Reserve StrainOil India Posts Record Crude Output From Rajasthan’s Thar Desert Amid West Asia Crisis‘True Friendship’: Iran Envoy Lauds India Ties, Clarifies Deleted Thank You PostsPM Modi Assures No Seat Cut For Southern States, Pushes Women’s Quota Bill‘Will Take It To Kolkata’: Pak Minister Khawaja Asif’s Fresh Threat After Rajnath’s Stern WarningBig Reveal: ISI Behind Chandigarh Attack, Global Terror Links Surface”Living In Fear”: Indian Family In Bahrain Amid Escalating Iran War‘Genius Move’: Ex-US Pilot Hails India’s Ploy To Use Rafale Decoys In Op Sindoor To Fool PakistanIndia Buys Iranian Oil After 7 Years, No Payment Hurdles Reported“Violation Of Article 21”: Owaisi Slams UCC, Says It Interferes With Religious Freedom123PhotostoriesIs clay pot (matka) water safe? 5-step cleaning tips & summer benefits of matka waterFrom Carmen Electra to Eddie Murphy: Looking back at the most shocking short-lived celebrity weddingsBest Angelina Jolie movies of all time: ‘Girl, Interrupted’, ‘Maleficent’ and moreShiney Ahuja, Rimi Sen to Uday Chopra : The 2000s Bollywood faces who faded away from the big screenBefore age 10, these 12 simple things parents say can shape a child’s confidence and emotional strength for lifeDivyanka Tripathi and Vivek Dahiya host a heartwarming baby shower ceremony; co-star Ruhaanika Dhawan, actor Dheeraj Dhoopar, and others joinMumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet train corridor: 5 km tunnel excavation complete — why it’s a key step toward operationsBig relief for commuters: Noida plans 10-lane Pushta Road, new link to ease Delhi–Jewar airport traffic; what we knowTilak Varma’s multi-storey home in Hyderabad is rooted in humble beginnings, now a stylish residence shaped by cricket fame and family valuesRashmika Mandanna birthday special: Best performances to watch on OTT, from ‘Animal’ to ‘Chhaava’123Hot PicksIPL ScoreUpdated IPL Points TableApp Leader Raghav ChadhaLPG ShortageStephen CurryPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingYesterday IPL match resultVaibhav SooryavanshiStrait of HormuzIPL 2026Saudi Arabia travel ban rulesToll PaymentIran Drone StrikeHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

Vamsikrishna 0