April 24, 2026

Nandigram: People show their ink-marked fingers after casting votes during the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly election, in Nandigram, Purba Medinipur district. (PTI Photo/Manvender Vashist Lav) NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu and West Bengal recorded bumper polling on Thursday, with the Election Commission (ECI) saying both states saw their highest-ever voter turnout since Independence as voting ended at 6 pm.Polling concluded at 6pm, with West Bengal recording a turnout of 91.91% in the first of two phases, while Tamil Nadu saw 84.80% voting, according to the latest data by the ECI.“Highest-ever polling percentage in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu since Independence — the ECI salutes every voter,” Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar said, according to ANI.Several districts in West Bengal recorded over 90% turnout, led by Dakshin Dinajpur (94.85%), followed by Cooch Behar (94.54%), Birbhum (93.70%), Jalpaiguri (93.23%) and Murshidabad (92.93%).Tamil Nadu also saw strong participation, with Karur leading at 92.48%, followed by Salem (90.42%), Dharmapuri (90.02%), Erode (89.97%) and Namakkal (89.63%).Significantly, in West Bengal, female turnout reached a record 92.69%, compared to 90.92% for men. Similarly, in Tamil Nadu, 85.76% of women voted, while male participation stood at 83.57%.Polling for all 234 assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu and 152 of 294 seats in West Bengal began at 7 am amid tight security. Voting for the remaining 142 seats in West Bengal will be held on April 29.Counting of votes in both states is scheduled for May 4.In West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee and the TMC have been in power since 2011, with the chief minister now seeking a fourth consecutive term. The BJP is the principal challenger after its best-ever performance in the state in 2021.In Tamil Nadu, the DMK, which heads the Secular Progressive Alliance, is in power. Its main challenger is the National Democratic Alliance, led in the state by the DMK’s arch-rival, the AIADMK.In the 2021 assembly elections, voter turnout stood at 85.2% in West Bengal and 76.6% in Tamil Nadu.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‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil NaduMassive Poll Day: West Bengal Begins Voting, Tamil Nadu Sees Triangular Showdown123PhotostoriesRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxuryThink you’re healthy and safe from a heart attack? Doctors warn hidden risk factors may be putting you at risk: Here’s what to watch forWhy is the mayonnaise ban extended in this South Indian state till April 2027123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionCBSE 10th Second Board Exam ScheduleBan vs NZTS EAMCET Hall TicketUPMSP 10th ResultUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins
Nandigram: People show their ink-marked fingers after casting votes during the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly election, in Nandigram, Purba Medinipur district. (PTI Photo/Manvender Vashist Lav) NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu and West Bengal recorded bumper polling on Thursday, with the Election Commission (ECI) saying both states saw their highest-ever voter turnout since Independence as voting ended at 6 pm.Polling concluded at 6pm, with West Bengal recording a turnout of 91.91% in the first of two phases, while Tamil Nadu saw 84.80% voting, according to the latest data by the ECI.“Highest-ever polling percentage in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu since Independence — the ECI salutes every voter,” Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar said, according to ANI.Several districts in West Bengal recorded over 90% turnout, led by Dakshin Dinajpur (94.85%), followed by Cooch Behar (94.54%), Birbhum (93.70%), Jalpaiguri (93.23%) and Murshidabad (92.93%).Tamil Nadu also saw strong participation, with Karur leading at 92.48%, followed by Salem (90.42%), Dharmapuri (90.02%), Erode (89.97%) and Namakkal (89.63%).Significantly, in West Bengal, female turnout reached a record 92.69%, compared to 90.92% for men. Similarly, in Tamil Nadu, 85.76% of women voted, while male participation stood at 83.57%.Polling for all 234 assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu and 152 of 294 seats in West Bengal began at 7 am amid tight security. Voting for the remaining 142 seats in West Bengal will be held on April 29.Counting of votes in both states is scheduled for May 4.In West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee and the TMC have been in power since 2011, with the chief minister now seeking a fourth consecutive term. The BJP is the principal challenger after its best-ever performance in the state in 2021.In Tamil Nadu, the DMK, which heads the Secular Progressive Alliance, is in power. Its main challenger is the National Democratic Alliance, led in the state by the DMK’s arch-rival, the AIADMK.In the 2021 assembly elections, voter turnout stood at 85.2% in West Bengal and 76.6% in Tamil Nadu.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‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil NaduMassive Poll Day: West Bengal Begins Voting, Tamil Nadu Sees Triangular Showdown123PhotostoriesRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxuryThink you’re healthy and safe from a heart attack? Doctors warn hidden risk factors may be putting you at risk: Here’s what to watch forWhy is the mayonnaise ban extended in this South Indian state till April 2027123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionCBSE 10th Second Board Exam ScheduleBan vs NZTS EAMCET Hall TicketUPMSP 10th ResultUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap


‘EC salutes voters’: Tamil Nadu, West Bengal record highest-ever turnout since Independence
Nandigram: People show their ink-marked fingers after casting votes during the first phase of the West Bengal Assembly election, in Nandigram, Purba Medinipur district. (PTI Photo/Manvender Vashist Lav)

NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu and West Bengal recorded bumper polling on Thursday, with the Election Commission (ECI) saying both states saw their highest-ever voter turnout since Independence as voting ended at 6 pm.Polling concluded at 6pm, with West Bengal recording a turnout of 91.91% in the first of two phases, while Tamil Nadu saw 84.80% voting, according to the latest data by the ECI.“Highest-ever polling percentage in West Bengal and Tamil Nadu since Independence — the ECI salutes every voter,” Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar said, according to ANI.Several districts in West Bengal recorded over 90% turnout, led by Dakshin Dinajpur (94.85%), followed by Cooch Behar (94.54%), Birbhum (93.70%), Jalpaiguri (93.23%) and Murshidabad (92.93%).Tamil Nadu also saw strong participation, with Karur leading at 92.48%, followed by Salem (90.42%), Dharmapuri (90.02%), Erode (89.97%) and Namakkal (89.63%).Significantly, in West Bengal, female turnout reached a record 92.69%, compared to 90.92% for men. Similarly, in Tamil Nadu, 85.76% of women voted, while male participation stood at 83.57%.Polling for all 234 assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu and 152 of 294 seats in West Bengal began at 7 am amid tight security. Voting for the remaining 142 seats in West Bengal will be held on April 29.Counting of votes in both states is scheduled for May 4.In West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee and the TMC have been in power since 2011, with the chief minister now seeking a fourth consecutive term. The BJP is the principal challenger after its best-ever performance in the state in 2021.In Tamil Nadu, the DMK, which heads the Secular Progressive Alliance, is in power. Its main challenger is the National Democratic Alliance, led in the state by the DMK’s arch-rival, the AIADMK.In the 2021 assembly elections, voter turnout stood at 85.2% in West Bengal and 76.6% in Tamil Nadu.



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Former Army Chief Gen Naravane NEW DELHI: After the controversy surrounding his unpublished memoir ‘Four Stars of Destiny’, former Army chief General MM Naravane (Retd) has told news channels in separate interviews that it was “totally unfair to drag me and the armed forces into politics” by using an unpublished book to score points and asserted that he had not been abandoned by govt at the height of the 2020 LAC standoff with China.He spoke candidly about the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, brandishing a copy of his unpublished memoir in Parliament to attack the Modi government over the issue.Naravane, who has written a new book, ‘The Curious and the Classified: Unearthing Military Myths and Mysteries’, said he had the government’s full backing and authority to open fire on Chinese soldiers if the situation so warranted during the LAC standoff with China.“The person at the helm is always alone, whether it’s a CEO or the leader of a country. But that does not mean you have been abandoned. The whole country is behind you, your whole army is with you,” Gen Naravane (Retd) told one news channel.The remarks came a few months after Rahul tried to slam the government by citing extracts from Naravane’s unpublished book in which the retired general alleged that PM (through the defence minister) had told him, ‘jo uchit samjho wo karo’ (do what you think is right), then he sought orders from the government during a faceoff with Chinese soldiers on Rechin La pass.There was nothing in the book that warranted the fuss, the former Army chief added.In his new book, Gen Naravane “pulls aside the still-drawn curtains on some of the most riveting and compelling arcana that colour the legends and lore of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force,” his publisher Rupa Publications announced on Wednesday.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Uninformed, Inappropriate’: India Responds To Trump’s ‘Hell-hole’ Comment‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil Nadu123PhotostoriesAre you using the right spoon? Here’s what each type of spoon is actually designed forGarad to Tangail: 5 underrated textiles from West Bengal you need to knowRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxury123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionDianna RussiniNFL TradeTaylor SwiftMike VrabelUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

Former Army Chief Gen Naravane NEW DELHI: After the controversy surrounding his unpublished memoir ‘Four Stars of Destiny’, former Army chief General MM Naravane (Retd) has told news channels in separate interviews that it was “totally unfair to drag me and the armed forces into politics” by using an unpublished book to score points and asserted that he had not been abandoned by govt at the height of the 2020 LAC standoff with China.He spoke candidly about the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, brandishing a copy of his unpublished memoir in Parliament to attack the Modi government over the issue.Naravane, who has written a new book, ‘The Curious and the Classified: Unearthing Military Myths and Mysteries’, said he had the government’s full backing and authority to open fire on Chinese soldiers if the situation so warranted during the LAC standoff with China.“The person at the helm is always alone, whether it’s a CEO or the leader of a country. But that does not mean you have been abandoned. The whole country is behind you, your whole army is with you,” Gen Naravane (Retd) told one news channel.The remarks came a few months after Rahul tried to slam the government by citing extracts from Naravane’s unpublished book in which the retired general alleged that PM (through the defence minister) had told him, ‘jo uchit samjho wo karo’ (do what you think is right), then he sought orders from the government during a faceoff with Chinese soldiers on Rechin La pass.There was nothing in the book that warranted the fuss, the former Army chief added.In his new book, Gen Naravane “pulls aside the still-drawn curtains on some of the most riveting and compelling arcana that colour the legends and lore of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force,” his publisher Rupa Publications announced on Wednesday.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Uninformed, Inappropriate’: India Responds To Trump’s ‘Hell-hole’ Comment‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil Nadu123PhotostoriesAre you using the right spoon? Here’s what each type of spoon is actually designed forGarad to Tangail: 5 underrated textiles from West Bengal you need to knowRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxury123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionDianna RussiniNFL TradeTaylor SwiftMike VrabelUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna 0
SRINAGAR: Initiating major reforms in the Union territory, the government of Ladakh on Thursday announced to deregulate the hospitality sector, freeing it from old regulations and bureaucratic interference. Lieutenant governor VK Saxena said, “I have approved major reforms related to ease of doing business aimed at deregulating the hospitality sector, reducing compliance burden on stakeholders and creating a unified, streamlined, and citizen-friendly registration mechanism for tourism units.”The registration validity of tour operators has been increased from one year to five years, eliminating the need for renewal every year. Tour and travel operators engaged in adventure and mountaineering activities were earlier required to register separately as ‘adventure tour operators’ and ‘mountaineering tour operators’ at an additional registration fee of Rs 3,000 each. This has been done away with.A unified category under the nomenclature ‘travel agent’ has been introduced, which will authorise the registered entity to undertake all activities permitted under the Registration of Tourist Act.The number of documents required for registration of tour operators has been reduced significantly. The new framework also removes the requirement of a character certificate, a fixed bank balance and educational qualification to run a tour and travel agency.The existing process for homestay registration involves multiple procedural requirements and documentation, which often act as barriers to local participation. The new framework reduces the number of documents required, making the process simpler and more accessible, encouraging community-based tourism and creating livelihood opportunities for local residents.The LG said that the reforms, guided by PM Modi’s dictum of ‘Minimum Government, Maximum Governance’, would create a safe and secure atmosphere for tourists, expand the tourism industry and contribute significantly to strengthening the local economy.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Uninformed, Inappropriate’: India Responds To Trump’s ‘Hell-hole’ Comment‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil Nadu123PhotostoriesAre you using the right spoon? Here’s what each type of spoon is actually designed forGarad to Tangail: 5 underrated textiles from West Bengal you need to knowRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxury123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionDianna RussiniBan vs NZTS EAMCET Hall TicketUPMSP 10th ResultUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

SRINAGAR: Initiating major reforms in the Union territory, the government of Ladakh on Thursday announced to deregulate the hospitality sector, freeing it from old regulations and bureaucratic interference. Lieutenant governor VK Saxena said, “I have approved major reforms related to ease of doing business aimed at deregulating the hospitality sector, reducing compliance burden on stakeholders and creating a unified, streamlined, and citizen-friendly registration mechanism for tourism units.”The registration validity of tour operators has been increased from one year to five years, eliminating the need for renewal every year. Tour and travel operators engaged in adventure and mountaineering activities were earlier required to register separately as ‘adventure tour operators’ and ‘mountaineering tour operators’ at an additional registration fee of Rs 3,000 each. This has been done away with.A unified category under the nomenclature ‘travel agent’ has been introduced, which will authorise the registered entity to undertake all activities permitted under the Registration of Tourist Act.The number of documents required for registration of tour operators has been reduced significantly. The new framework also removes the requirement of a character certificate, a fixed bank balance and educational qualification to run a tour and travel agency.The existing process for homestay registration involves multiple procedural requirements and documentation, which often act as barriers to local participation. The new framework reduces the number of documents required, making the process simpler and more accessible, encouraging community-based tourism and creating livelihood opportunities for local residents.The LG said that the reforms, guided by PM Modi’s dictum of ‘Minimum Government, Maximum Governance’, would create a safe and secure atmosphere for tourists, expand the tourism industry and contribute significantly to strengthening the local economy.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Uninformed, Inappropriate’: India Responds To Trump’s ‘Hell-hole’ Comment‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil Nadu123PhotostoriesAre you using the right spoon? Here’s what each type of spoon is actually designed forGarad to Tangail: 5 underrated textiles from West Bengal you need to knowRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxury123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionDianna RussiniBan vs NZTS EAMCET Hall TicketUPMSP 10th ResultUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

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NEW DELHI: The Congress on Thursday submitted a “summary response” to the Election Commission’s notice issued to party president Mallikarjun Kharge over his “terrorist” remark, alleging that the move “smacks of ulterior motives” and does not constitute a violation of the Model Code of Conduct or any law.The party has sought one week’s time to file a detailed reply.In a letter to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Congress general secretary (communications) Jairam Ramesh flagged discrepancies in the notices issued by the poll body.”We are in receipt of two notices with the same number … both dated April 22, 2026, and signed by two different officials,” Ramesh said, adding that if one had been withdrawn, there was no mention of it.He also pointed out that while one notice cited a complaint by Trinamool Congress leader Derek O’Brien, the other version uploaded on the EC’s website omitted the complainant’s name.”This indicates a casual and routine manner in which show-cause notices are being issued, merely on the basis of the ruling party’s complaints and without due application of mind,” Ramesh alleged, also criticising the 24-hour deadline given to Kharge to respond.Calling the time frame insufficient, he said Kharge is currently engaged in multiple campaign events.”It appears the notice is being issued as a formality rather than in the spirit of natural justice,” Ramesh said.The Congress has requested a week’s time to submit a detailed response and sought an opportunity for a senior delegation to present its case before the Commission.In its summary reply, the party said Kharge had already clarified his remarks.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Uninformed, Inappropriate’: India Responds To Trump’s ‘Hell-hole’ Comment‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil Nadu123PhotostoriesGarad to Tangail: 5 underrated textiles from West Bengal you need to knowRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxuryThink you’re healthy and safe from a heart attack? Doctors warn hidden risk factors may be putting you at risk: Here’s what to watch for123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionCBSE 10th Second Board Exam ScheduleBan vs NZTS EAMCET Hall TicketUPMSP 10th ResultUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

NEW DELHI: The Congress on Thursday submitted a “summary response” to the Election Commission’s notice issued to party president Mallikarjun Kharge over his “terrorist” remark, alleging that the move “smacks of ulterior motives” and does not constitute a violation of the Model Code of Conduct or any law.The party has sought one week’s time to file a detailed reply.In a letter to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Congress general secretary (communications) Jairam Ramesh flagged discrepancies in the notices issued by the poll body.”We are in receipt of two notices with the same number … both dated April 22, 2026, and signed by two different officials,” Ramesh said, adding that if one had been withdrawn, there was no mention of it.He also pointed out that while one notice cited a complaint by Trinamool Congress leader Derek O’Brien, the other version uploaded on the EC’s website omitted the complainant’s name.”This indicates a casual and routine manner in which show-cause notices are being issued, merely on the basis of the ruling party’s complaints and without due application of mind,” Ramesh alleged, also criticising the 24-hour deadline given to Kharge to respond.Calling the time frame insufficient, he said Kharge is currently engaged in multiple campaign events.”It appears the notice is being issued as a formality rather than in the spirit of natural justice,” Ramesh said.The Congress has requested a week’s time to submit a detailed response and sought an opportunity for a senior delegation to present its case before the Commission.In its summary reply, the party said Kharge had already clarified his remarks.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Uninformed, Inappropriate’: India Responds To Trump’s ‘Hell-hole’ Comment‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil Nadu123PhotostoriesGarad to Tangail: 5 underrated textiles from West Bengal you need to knowRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxuryThink you’re healthy and safe from a heart attack? Doctors warn hidden risk factors may be putting you at risk: Here’s what to watch for123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionCBSE 10th Second Board Exam ScheduleBan vs NZTS EAMCET Hall TicketUPMSP 10th ResultUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

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. NEW DELHI: India is finalising its hub-and-spoke policy of flying passengers between small towns and rest of the world via hub like Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru. The move comes amid Air India and IndiGo’s massive orders for wide body aircraft; the coming of age of Indian hub airports that are gearing up for domestic-to-international and vice-versa transfers; and the biggest hubs of international travel to and from India in the Gulf like Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha facing uncertainty over when the resume pre Feb 28 operations. Union aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu visited and secretary Samir Sinha visited the upcoming hub at Delhi’s IGI Airport — India’s busiest airport — on Thursday to fine-tune the policy and begin its implementation in right earnest.Sinha is tackling what is the biggest pain point for international to domestic passengers — they need to collect their baggage on the port of arrival in India; clear customs and then then check-in again for the domestic connecting flight. “baggage for both inbound and outbound international passengers will be transferred seamlessly through airside operations at the hub airport, eliminating the need for passenger intervention,” the aviation ministry says about the change under the new hub-and-spoke policy.Passengers flying out of India, say from Lucknow to Delhi to London, on the other hand, can through check-in their bag at Lucknow itself if both their flights are on the same airline or alliance’ code share partner carriers. The operating procedure for domestic to international transfers: “Under the hub-and-spoke model, passengers arriving from various smaller cities will be consolidated in a coordinated manner and routed through major hub airports such as Delhi for onward international connections. At the spoke (smaller origin) airport, passengers will be issued two separate boarding passes, clearly marked with ‘D’ (domestic) and ‘I’ (international) indicators,” the aviation ministry said in a statement.“Customs and immigration formalities for outbound passengers will be completed at the first point of exit from the country, which will be the spoke airport, and passengers on such outbound journeys will not have access to customs declaration facilities during transit,” it said.The operating procedure for international to domestic transfers: “For inbound passengers, customs and immigration processes will take place at the final point of entry into the country, which will again be the spoke airport…. baggage for both inbound and outbound international passengers will be transferred seamlessly through airside operations at the hub airport, eliminating the need for passenger intervention. In order to maintain operational efficiency and regulatory clarity, combination flights will not be permitted, and separate aircraft will be deployed for the domestic and international segments of hub-and-spoke operations,” it said.Naidu said India is aiming to enable seamless connectivity between Tier-II and Tier-III airports and international destinations. “While passengers will benefit from reduced travel time, there will also be optimal utilisation of infrastructure already developed across the country,” he said.The hub and spoke strategy aims to alter India from being a source market of traffic for feeding foreign airlines and hubs, to a “global transit hub, thereby allowing Indian airports to capture a substantial share of transfer traffic that is currently routed through foreign hubs.”Naidu said: “At present, nearly 35% of international passengers travelling from India transit through foreign hubs such as Dubai, London and Singapore. Our aim is to reverse this trend by developing globally competitive Indian hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Chennai.”“Delhi Airport (for instance) stands out with its capacity exceeding 10 crore passengers annually, handling nearly 50% of the total passenger traffic in the northern region and managing around 50,000 daily transfers, thereby positioning itself as a natural hub airport,” the minster said.The implementation of this hub-and-spoke model “will also enable airlines to deploy their aircraft more efficiently for international operations, while contributing to decongestion at major airports by decentralising customs and immigration processes to spoke locations,” Naidu said.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil NaduMassive Poll Day: West Bengal Begins Voting, Tamil Nadu Sees Triangular Showdown123PhotostoriesGarad to Tangail: 5 underrated textiles from West Bengal you need to knowRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxuryThink you’re healthy and safe from a heart attack? Doctors warn hidden risk factors may be putting you at risk: Here’s what to watch for123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionCBSE 10th Second Board Exam ScheduleBan vs NZTS EAMCET Hall TicketUPMSP 10th ResultUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

. NEW DELHI: India is finalising its hub-and-spoke policy of flying passengers between small towns and rest of the world via hub like Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru. The move comes amid Air India and IndiGo’s massive orders for wide body aircraft; the coming of age of Indian hub airports that are gearing up for domestic-to-international and vice-versa transfers; and the biggest hubs of international travel to and from India in the Gulf like Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha facing uncertainty over when the resume pre Feb 28 operations. Union aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu visited and secretary Samir Sinha visited the upcoming hub at Delhi’s IGI Airport — India’s busiest airport — on Thursday to fine-tune the policy and begin its implementation in right earnest.Sinha is tackling what is the biggest pain point for international to domestic passengers — they need to collect their baggage on the port of arrival in India; clear customs and then then check-in again for the domestic connecting flight. “baggage for both inbound and outbound international passengers will be transferred seamlessly through airside operations at the hub airport, eliminating the need for passenger intervention,” the aviation ministry says about the change under the new hub-and-spoke policy.Passengers flying out of India, say from Lucknow to Delhi to London, on the other hand, can through check-in their bag at Lucknow itself if both their flights are on the same airline or alliance’ code share partner carriers. The operating procedure for domestic to international transfers: “Under the hub-and-spoke model, passengers arriving from various smaller cities will be consolidated in a coordinated manner and routed through major hub airports such as Delhi for onward international connections. At the spoke (smaller origin) airport, passengers will be issued two separate boarding passes, clearly marked with ‘D’ (domestic) and ‘I’ (international) indicators,” the aviation ministry said in a statement.“Customs and immigration formalities for outbound passengers will be completed at the first point of exit from the country, which will be the spoke airport, and passengers on such outbound journeys will not have access to customs declaration facilities during transit,” it said.The operating procedure for international to domestic transfers: “For inbound passengers, customs and immigration processes will take place at the final point of entry into the country, which will again be the spoke airport…. baggage for both inbound and outbound international passengers will be transferred seamlessly through airside operations at the hub airport, eliminating the need for passenger intervention. In order to maintain operational efficiency and regulatory clarity, combination flights will not be permitted, and separate aircraft will be deployed for the domestic and international segments of hub-and-spoke operations,” it said.Naidu said India is aiming to enable seamless connectivity between Tier-II and Tier-III airports and international destinations. “While passengers will benefit from reduced travel time, there will also be optimal utilisation of infrastructure already developed across the country,” he said.The hub and spoke strategy aims to alter India from being a source market of traffic for feeding foreign airlines and hubs, to a “global transit hub, thereby allowing Indian airports to capture a substantial share of transfer traffic that is currently routed through foreign hubs.”Naidu said: “At present, nearly 35% of international passengers travelling from India transit through foreign hubs such as Dubai, London and Singapore. Our aim is to reverse this trend by developing globally competitive Indian hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Chennai.”“Delhi Airport (for instance) stands out with its capacity exceeding 10 crore passengers annually, handling nearly 50% of the total passenger traffic in the northern region and managing around 50,000 daily transfers, thereby positioning itself as a natural hub airport,” the minster said.The implementation of this hub-and-spoke model “will also enable airlines to deploy their aircraft more efficiently for international operations, while contributing to decongestion at major airports by decentralising customs and immigration processes to spoke locations,” Naidu said.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘In Touch With Iran’: MEA Confirms Indian Crew Safe After Hormuz FiringViolent Clashes Mar Bengal Phase 1 Voting As Tamil Stars Contribute To 82% TurnoutFrance Waives Airport Transit Visa For Indian Nationals, Boosts Travel EaseTop Military Leadership Of India And US Engage To Discuss Common Concerns In The Indo-pacificEx-Domestic Worker Arrested in Delhi IIT Graduate Murder; Linked to Alwar CaseTrump Sparks Outrage After Reposting ‘Hellholes’ Remark on India, China Amid Citizenship DebateUS Congressman Urges Pakistan To Act Against LeT, JeM; Renews Focus On Cross-Border TerrorWest Bengal Poll Violence: Blast In Murshidabad Injures Multiple During VotingVijay Writes To EC Seeking Poll Extension Amid 17.69% Early Turnout In Tamil NaduMassive Poll Day: West Bengal Begins Voting, Tamil Nadu Sees Triangular Showdown123PhotostoriesGarad to Tangail: 5 underrated textiles from West Bengal you need to knowRoyal birthdays in May 2026: List of upcoming birthdays of Royals across the worldExclusive – Parth Samthaan on Mahid’s popularity, Sehar Hone Ko Hai and work-life balance: ‘We never tried to create controversy or show religion as propaganda’7 ways to make your first home feel right—cozy, functional, and personalMeghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideawaysTop 5 elite residential neighbourhoods in Lucknow for end-users and investorsHow to identify a papaya which has been artificially ripenedWhy did Prime Minister Narendra Modi praise Indian cheese in a social media postInside ‘Dhurandhar’ director Aditya Dhar and Yami Gautam’s Rs 20 crore Bandra home: Minimalism, nature and quiet luxuryThink you’re healthy and safe from a heart attack? Doctors warn hidden risk factors may be putting you at risk: Here’s what to watch for123Hot PicksBengal Election 2026UP Board Class 10 result 2026Bengal election dos and don’tsTamil Nadu pollsSIR ProtestTN election dos and don’tsBank Holidays AprilTop TrendingWest Bengal electionTamil Nadu electionCBSE 10th Second Board Exam ScheduleBan vs NZTS EAMCET Hall TicketUPMSP 10th ResultUPMSP 12th ResultDelhi Murder NewsUP Board Result TimeIPL Orange Cap

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