May 21, 2026

NIA (Image credit: ANI) As part of an anti-India espionage network, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday arrested a Kolkata-based man for allegedly passing confidential security-related information to Pakistan Intelligence Officers (PIOs).Sharing details of the arrest on X, the official NIA India account said, “A Pak-backed spy, Zafar Riaz @ Rizvi of Kolkata, has been arrested in an espionage racket, in which he was engaged in clandestinely passing confidential security-related information to Pakistan Intelligence Officers (PIOs) as part of an anti-India terror conspiracy.”According to the agency, the accused has been booked under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Official Secrets Act, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A].“A Look Out Circular was issued against him and proceedings were also under way to declare him a Proclaimed Offender (PO) when he was taken into custody,” the NIA said in its press release.The agency further revealed during its investigation that the accused was married to a Pakistani national and had been travelling frequently between India and Pakistan since 2005.“During one such visit, he was contacted and cultivated by PIOs to carry out espionage activities in India in lieu of financial inducements and the promise of Pakistani citizenship,” the release added.NIA reveals alleged espionage networkAccording to the NIA, the accused allegedly facilitated espionage and terror operatives by sharing One-Time Passwords (OTPs) linked to Indian telecom mobile numbers with a PIO to activate WhatsApp accounts.The agency claimed these accounts were later used by the alleged PIO to communicate secretly with Motiram Jat, another accused in the case, who was allegedly involved in passing sensitive security-related information.Investigation continuesThe NIA said investigations are underway to identify other individuals linked to the espionage racket and uncover the larger conspiracy behind the operation.The arrest comes amid wider crackdowns by the agency across states including West Bengal, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan to dismantle alleged cross-border intelligence networks.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’India Won’t Tolerate Any Form Of Nuclear Blackmail’: Rajnath Singh In South KoreaWho Is Ryan Williams? Footballer Who Gave Up Australian Citizenship To Play For IndiaCongress To Join Tamil Nadu Cabinet After 59 Years As Vijay Expands TVK GovernmentIndia, Italy Elevate Ties; PM Modi’s ‘Melody’ Gift To Meloni Goes Viral | Headlines@9Parle Industries Shares Jump 5% After Modi-Meloni’s ‘Melody’ Moment, But There’s A CatchItaly PM Giorgia Meloni Speaks Hindi During Joint Presser With PM Modi | Viral ‘Melodi’ Moment’Anarchic Mindset’: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For ‘Traitors’ Remark On PM Modi, Amit Shah’Warned India of Economic Storm, Then Flew to Italy on ₹4,000 Crore Jet’: Rahul Gandhi Slams PM ModiIndia Successfully Tests Suryastra Precision Rocket System With 300-Km Strike CapabilityThree Newly Married Women Die Within Five Days Across MP And UP, Families Allege Dowry Harassment123Photostories10 twin baby boy and girl names that are super cuteThey never smoked, but they got mouth cancer: What doctors want young people to know nowBella Hadid’s Cannes 2026 looks are a masterclass in quiet luxury glamour”Faltu khana na banaye, agar koi…” CM Yogi Adityanath urges people on being mindful while cooking: 5 tips on how to cook ‘right’ at homeMorning affirmation at 5 am: What happens when your brain hears positive words before sunriseInternational Tea Day 2026: 6 culinary uses of tea leaves apart from making teaUrvashi Rautela said ‘too much’ is the ultimate mood with not one but two extravagant gowns at Cannes 2026Exclusive – From Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah to Dhurandhar, Rakesh Bedi and Asit Kumarr Modi get candid about their bond and journey; actor reacts to David Dhawan’s remark8 strange and uncomfortable signs you are going through a quiet spiritual awakening8 giraffe facts that shock even wildlife lovers123Hot PicksSBI apprentice recruitment 2026US Iran warCBSE Class 12 re-evaluation 2026Gold price predictionAdani Group stocksNEET exam cancelledMHT CET Result 2026Top TrendingCBSE Answer SheetTwisha SharmaIPL Playoff RaceTN Results 2026Odisha 12th ResultsIPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026India VS Afghanistan Squad AnnouncementMHT CET Result DateJahangir Khan

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins
NIA (Image credit: ANI) As part of an anti-India espionage network, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday arrested a Kolkata-based man for allegedly passing confidential security-related information to Pakistan Intelligence Officers (PIOs).Sharing details of the arrest on X, the official NIA India account said, “A Pak-backed spy, Zafar Riaz @ Rizvi of Kolkata, has been arrested in an espionage racket, in which he was engaged in clandestinely passing confidential security-related information to Pakistan Intelligence Officers (PIOs) as part of an anti-India terror conspiracy.”According to the agency, the accused has been booked under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Official Secrets Act, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A].“A Look Out Circular was issued against him and proceedings were also under way to declare him a Proclaimed Offender (PO) when he was taken into custody,” the NIA said in its press release.The agency further revealed during its investigation that the accused was married to a Pakistani national and had been travelling frequently between India and Pakistan since 2005.“During one such visit, he was contacted and cultivated by PIOs to carry out espionage activities in India in lieu of financial inducements and the promise of Pakistani citizenship,” the release added.NIA reveals alleged espionage networkAccording to the NIA, the accused allegedly facilitated espionage and terror operatives by sharing One-Time Passwords (OTPs) linked to Indian telecom mobile numbers with a PIO to activate WhatsApp accounts.The agency claimed these accounts were later used by the alleged PIO to communicate secretly with Motiram Jat, another accused in the case, who was allegedly involved in passing sensitive security-related information.Investigation continuesThe NIA said investigations are underway to identify other individuals linked to the espionage racket and uncover the larger conspiracy behind the operation.The arrest comes amid wider crackdowns by the agency across states including West Bengal, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan to dismantle alleged cross-border intelligence networks.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’India Won’t Tolerate Any Form Of Nuclear Blackmail’: Rajnath Singh In South KoreaWho Is Ryan Williams? Footballer Who Gave Up Australian Citizenship To Play For IndiaCongress To Join Tamil Nadu Cabinet After 59 Years As Vijay Expands TVK GovernmentIndia, Italy Elevate Ties; PM Modi’s ‘Melody’ Gift To Meloni Goes Viral | Headlines@9Parle Industries Shares Jump 5% After Modi-Meloni’s ‘Melody’ Moment, But There’s A CatchItaly PM Giorgia Meloni Speaks Hindi During Joint Presser With PM Modi | Viral ‘Melodi’ Moment’Anarchic Mindset’: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For ‘Traitors’ Remark On PM Modi, Amit Shah’Warned India of Economic Storm, Then Flew to Italy on ₹4,000 Crore Jet’: Rahul Gandhi Slams PM ModiIndia Successfully Tests Suryastra Precision Rocket System With 300-Km Strike CapabilityThree Newly Married Women Die Within Five Days Across MP And UP, Families Allege Dowry Harassment123Photostories10 twin baby boy and girl names that are super cuteThey never smoked, but they got mouth cancer: What doctors want young people to know nowBella Hadid’s Cannes 2026 looks are a masterclass in quiet luxury glamour”Faltu khana na banaye, agar koi…” CM Yogi Adityanath urges people on being mindful while cooking: 5 tips on how to cook ‘right’ at homeMorning affirmation at 5 am: What happens when your brain hears positive words before sunriseInternational Tea Day 2026: 6 culinary uses of tea leaves apart from making teaUrvashi Rautela said ‘too much’ is the ultimate mood with not one but two extravagant gowns at Cannes 2026Exclusive – From Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah to Dhurandhar, Rakesh Bedi and Asit Kumarr Modi get candid about their bond and journey; actor reacts to David Dhawan’s remark8 strange and uncomfortable signs you are going through a quiet spiritual awakening8 giraffe facts that shock even wildlife lovers123Hot PicksSBI apprentice recruitment 2026US Iran warCBSE Class 12 re-evaluation 2026Gold price predictionAdani Group stocksNEET exam cancelledMHT CET Result 2026Top TrendingCBSE Answer SheetTwisha SharmaIPL Playoff RaceTN Results 2026Odisha 12th ResultsIPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026India VS Afghanistan Squad AnnouncementMHT CET Result DateJahangir Khan


NIA arrests Kolkata resident for spying for ‘Pak’ on espionage charges

As part of an anti-India espionage network, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday arrested a Kolkata-based man for allegedly passing confidential security-related information to Pakistan Intelligence Officers (PIOs).Sharing details of the arrest on X, the official NIA India account said, “A Pak-backed spy, Zafar Riaz @ Rizvi of Kolkata, has been arrested in an espionage racket, in which he was engaged in clandestinely passing confidential security-related information to Pakistan Intelligence Officers (PIOs) as part of an anti-India terror conspiracy.”According to the agency, the accused has been booked under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Official Secrets Act, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A].“A Look Out Circular was issued against him and proceedings were also under way to declare him a Proclaimed Offender (PO) when he was taken into custody,” the NIA said in its press release.The agency further revealed during its investigation that the accused was married to a Pakistani national and had been travelling frequently between India and Pakistan since 2005.“During one such visit, he was contacted and cultivated by PIOs to carry out espionage activities in India in lieu of financial inducements and the promise of Pakistani citizenship,” the release added.NIA reveals alleged espionage networkAccording to the NIA, the accused allegedly facilitated espionage and terror operatives by sharing One-Time Passwords (OTPs) linked to Indian telecom mobile numbers with a PIO to activate WhatsApp accounts.The agency claimed these accounts were later used by the alleged PIO to communicate secretly with Motiram Jat, another accused in the case, who was allegedly involved in passing sensitive security-related information.Investigation continuesThe NIA said investigations are underway to identify other individuals linked to the espionage racket and uncover the larger conspiracy behind the operation.The arrest comes amid wider crackdowns by the agency across states including West Bengal, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan to dismantle alleged cross-border intelligence networks.



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. THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala’s most controversial infrastructure project in recent history is officially dead. Chief minister V D Satheesan Wednesday announced that UDF govt had decided to scrap the controversial SilverLine semi-high-speed rail project designed to link Thiruvananthapuram and Kasaragod, ending the flagship infrastructure initiative of the previous LDF govt after years of protests and uncertainty. The anti-SilverLine agitation went on to evolve into one of the fiercest mass mobilisation against the previous Pinarayi Vijayan govt. The CM told media that the cabinet took a decision to revoke all land acquisition notifications issued for it. “Though the project had effectively been dropped, the notifications continued to remain in force, causing difficulties for ordinary people who were unable to sell, purchase or mortgage their land,” Satheesan said.. Satheesan clarified that UDF was not against a high-speed rail corridor, as long as it did not place a financial or environmental burden on Kerala. “We opposed SilverLine because it did not even have a proper detailed project report. Had it been implemented, it would have been an environmental disaster, as 30ft-high embankments were planned for 300km and 10ft-high walls for another 200km of the corridor,” he said. During monsoon, it would have wreaked havoc, Satheesan said. SilverLine was proposed as a 529.45km rail corridor connecting 11 districts.Will withdraw cases against Silverline protesters: Kerala CMConceived by Kerala Rail Development Corporation, the project, also known as K-Rail, aimed to reduce travel time between the two ends of the state to around four hours. Its estimated cost had crossed Rs 1 lakh crore in later projections. The project had faced uncertainty after the Union govt did not grant final approval. People affected by the land acquisition process and others opposed to the project welcomed the decision. The chief minister said the home department would recommend the withdrawal of cases related to protests against the project pending before courts. A decision on withdrawal would be taken after examining the nature and status of each case individually, he added. The proposal faced sustained opposition from environmental groups, residents’ collectives and opposition parties. End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’India Won’t Tolerate Any Form Of Nuclear Blackmail’: Rajnath Singh In South KoreaWho Is Ryan Williams? Footballer Who Gave Up Australian Citizenship To Play For IndiaCongress To Join Tamil Nadu Cabinet After 59 Years As Vijay Expands TVK GovernmentIndia, Italy Elevate Ties; PM Modi’s ‘Melody’ Gift To Meloni Goes Viral | Headlines@9Parle Industries Shares Jump 5% After Modi-Meloni’s ‘Melody’ Moment, But There’s A CatchItaly PM Giorgia Meloni Speaks Hindi During Joint Presser With PM Modi | Viral ‘Melodi’ Moment’Anarchic Mindset’: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For ‘Traitors’ Remark On PM Modi, Amit Shah’Warned India of Economic Storm, Then Flew to Italy on ₹4,000 Crore Jet’: Rahul Gandhi Slams PM ModiIndia Successfully Tests Suryastra Precision Rocket System With 300-Km Strike CapabilityThree Newly Married Women Die Within Five Days Across MP And UP, Families Allege Dowry Harassment123PhotostoriesMorning affirmation at 5 am: What happens when your brain hears positive words before sunriseInternational Tea Day 2026: 6 culinary uses of tea leaves apart from making teaUrvashi Rautela said ‘too much’ is the ultimate mood with not one but two extravagant gowns at Cannes 2026Exclusive – From Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah to Dhurandhar, Rakesh Bedi and Asit Kumarr Modi get candid about their bond and journey; actor reacts to David Dhawan’s remark8 strange and uncomfortable signs you are going through a quiet spiritual awakening8 giraffe facts that shock even wildlife loversGauranga Das shares 3 signs of a loyal partner10 exercises that can keep the heart healthyFeeling Stressed? Try These Astrological Tips to Calm Down Your MindNidhi Kumar recreated Madhuri Dixit’s magic at Cannes 2026’s red carpet — and the internet is officially obsessed123Hot PicksSBI apprentice recruitment 2026US Iran warCBSE Class 12 re-evaluation 2026Gold price predictionAdani Group stocksNEET exam cancelledMHT CET Result 2026Top TrendingCBSE Answer SheetTwisha SharmaIPL Playoff RaceTN Results 2026Odisha 12th ResultsIPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026India VS Afghanistan Squad AnnouncementMHT CET Result DateJahangir Khan

. THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala’s most controversial infrastructure project in recent history is officially dead. Chief minister V D Satheesan Wednesday announced that UDF govt had decided to scrap the controversial SilverLine semi-high-speed rail project designed to link Thiruvananthapuram and Kasaragod, ending the flagship infrastructure initiative of the previous LDF govt after years of protests and uncertainty. The anti-SilverLine agitation went on to evolve into one of the fiercest mass mobilisation against the previous Pinarayi Vijayan govt. The CM told media that the cabinet took a decision to revoke all land acquisition notifications issued for it. “Though the project had effectively been dropped, the notifications continued to remain in force, causing difficulties for ordinary people who were unable to sell, purchase or mortgage their land,” Satheesan said.. Satheesan clarified that UDF was not against a high-speed rail corridor, as long as it did not place a financial or environmental burden on Kerala. “We opposed SilverLine because it did not even have a proper detailed project report. Had it been implemented, it would have been an environmental disaster, as 30ft-high embankments were planned for 300km and 10ft-high walls for another 200km of the corridor,” he said. During monsoon, it would have wreaked havoc, Satheesan said. SilverLine was proposed as a 529.45km rail corridor connecting 11 districts.Will withdraw cases against Silverline protesters: Kerala CMConceived by Kerala Rail Development Corporation, the project, also known as K-Rail, aimed to reduce travel time between the two ends of the state to around four hours. Its estimated cost had crossed Rs 1 lakh crore in later projections. The project had faced uncertainty after the Union govt did not grant final approval. People affected by the land acquisition process and others opposed to the project welcomed the decision. The chief minister said the home department would recommend the withdrawal of cases related to protests against the project pending before courts. A decision on withdrawal would be taken after examining the nature and status of each case individually, he added. The proposal faced sustained opposition from environmental groups, residents’ collectives and opposition parties. End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’India Won’t Tolerate Any Form Of Nuclear Blackmail’: Rajnath Singh In South KoreaWho Is Ryan Williams? Footballer Who Gave Up Australian Citizenship To Play For IndiaCongress To Join Tamil Nadu Cabinet After 59 Years As Vijay Expands TVK GovernmentIndia, Italy Elevate Ties; PM Modi’s ‘Melody’ Gift To Meloni Goes Viral | Headlines@9Parle Industries Shares Jump 5% After Modi-Meloni’s ‘Melody’ Moment, But There’s A CatchItaly PM Giorgia Meloni Speaks Hindi During Joint Presser With PM Modi | Viral ‘Melodi’ Moment’Anarchic Mindset’: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For ‘Traitors’ Remark On PM Modi, Amit Shah’Warned India of Economic Storm, Then Flew to Italy on ₹4,000 Crore Jet’: Rahul Gandhi Slams PM ModiIndia Successfully Tests Suryastra Precision Rocket System With 300-Km Strike CapabilityThree Newly Married Women Die Within Five Days Across MP And UP, Families Allege Dowry Harassment123PhotostoriesMorning affirmation at 5 am: What happens when your brain hears positive words before sunriseInternational Tea Day 2026: 6 culinary uses of tea leaves apart from making teaUrvashi Rautela said ‘too much’ is the ultimate mood with not one but two extravagant gowns at Cannes 2026Exclusive – From Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah to Dhurandhar, Rakesh Bedi and Asit Kumarr Modi get candid about their bond and journey; actor reacts to David Dhawan’s remark8 strange and uncomfortable signs you are going through a quiet spiritual awakening8 giraffe facts that shock even wildlife loversGauranga Das shares 3 signs of a loyal partner10 exercises that can keep the heart healthyFeeling Stressed? Try These Astrological Tips to Calm Down Your MindNidhi Kumar recreated Madhuri Dixit’s magic at Cannes 2026’s red carpet — and the internet is officially obsessed123Hot PicksSBI apprentice recruitment 2026US Iran warCBSE Class 12 re-evaluation 2026Gold price predictionAdani Group stocksNEET exam cancelledMHT CET Result 2026Top TrendingCBSE Answer SheetTwisha SharmaIPL Playoff RaceTN Results 2026Odisha 12th ResultsIPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026India VS Afghanistan Squad AnnouncementMHT CET Result DateJahangir Khan

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. NEW DELHI: Multilateral military exercise PRAGATI 2026 involving personnel from 12 friendly countries started at Meghalaya’s Umroi Military Station on Wednesday.The contingents of Bhutan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Seychelles, Sri Lanka and Vietnam were accorded a traditional welcome by the Indian Army.PRAGATI — Partnership of Regional Armies for Growth and Transformation in the Indian Ocean Region — exercise provides a common platform for participating armies to engage in professional exchange, learn from one another’s experiences and build closer military-to-military ties.The two-week exercise will focus on counter-terror operations in semi-mountainous and jungle terrain. The training programme will include joint planning exercises, tactical-level drills and coordinated operations designed to improve adaptability, endurance and tactical proficiency of participating troops.In his address during a ceremony, Major General Sunil Sheoran, additional director general of Infantry of Indian Army welcomed all contingents and highlighted the importance of collective engagement in addressing contemporary security challenges. He stressed that the strengths and perspectives brought by each nation would contribute meaningfully towards achieving collective objectives of exercise.As part of the exercise, Indian technology and defence companies will showcase indigenous equipment and innovations under Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, providing a platform for knowledge exchange and highlighting India’s growing capabilities in defence production, innovation and self-reliance.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’India Won’t Tolerate Any Form Of Nuclear Blackmail’: Rajnath Singh In South KoreaWho Is Ryan Williams? Footballer Who Gave Up Australian Citizenship To Play For IndiaCongress To Join Tamil Nadu Cabinet After 59 Years As Vijay Expands TVK GovernmentIndia, Italy Elevate Ties; PM Modi’s ‘Melody’ Gift To Meloni Goes Viral | Headlines@9Parle Industries Shares Jump 5% After Modi-Meloni’s ‘Melody’ Moment, But There’s A CatchItaly PM Giorgia Meloni Speaks Hindi During Joint Presser With PM Modi | Viral ‘Melodi’ Moment’Anarchic Mindset’: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For ‘Traitors’ Remark On PM Modi, Amit Shah’Warned India of Economic Storm, Then Flew to Italy on ₹4,000 Crore Jet’: Rahul Gandhi Slams PM ModiIndia Successfully Tests Suryastra Precision Rocket System With 300-Km Strike CapabilityThree Newly Married Women Die Within Five Days Across MP And UP, Families Allege Dowry Harassment123Photostories”Faltu khana na banaye, agar koi…” CM Yogi Adityanath urges people on being mindful while cooking: 5 tips on how to cook ‘right’ at homeMorning affirmation at 5 am: What happens when your brain hears positive words before sunriseInternational Tea Day 2026: 6 culinary uses of tea leaves apart from making teaUrvashi Rautela said ‘too much’ is the ultimate mood with not one but two extravagant gowns at Cannes 2026Exclusive – From Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah to Dhurandhar, Rakesh Bedi and Asit Kumarr Modi get candid about their bond and journey; actor reacts to David Dhawan’s remark8 strange and uncomfortable signs you are going through a quiet spiritual awakening8 giraffe facts that shock even wildlife loversGauranga Das shares 3 signs of a loyal partner10 exercises that can keep the heart healthyFeeling Stressed? Try These Astrological Tips to Calm Down Your Mind123Hot PicksSBI apprentice recruitment 2026US Iran warCBSE Class 12 re-evaluation 2026Gold price predictionAdani Group stocksNEET exam cancelledMHT CET Result 2026Top TrendingCBSE Answer SheetTwisha SharmaIPL Playoff RaceTN Results 2026Odisha 12th ResultsIPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026India VS Afghanistan Squad AnnouncementMHT CET Result DateJahangir Khan

. NEW DELHI: Multilateral military exercise PRAGATI 2026 involving personnel from 12 friendly countries started at Meghalaya’s Umroi Military Station on Wednesday.The contingents of Bhutan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Seychelles, Sri Lanka and Vietnam were accorded a traditional welcome by the Indian Army.PRAGATI — Partnership of Regional Armies for Growth and Transformation in the Indian Ocean Region — exercise provides a common platform for participating armies to engage in professional exchange, learn from one another’s experiences and build closer military-to-military ties.The two-week exercise will focus on counter-terror operations in semi-mountainous and jungle terrain. The training programme will include joint planning exercises, tactical-level drills and coordinated operations designed to improve adaptability, endurance and tactical proficiency of participating troops.In his address during a ceremony, Major General Sunil Sheoran, additional director general of Infantry of Indian Army welcomed all contingents and highlighted the importance of collective engagement in addressing contemporary security challenges. He stressed that the strengths and perspectives brought by each nation would contribute meaningfully towards achieving collective objectives of exercise.As part of the exercise, Indian technology and defence companies will showcase indigenous equipment and innovations under Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, providing a platform for knowledge exchange and highlighting India’s growing capabilities in defence production, innovation and self-reliance.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’India Won’t Tolerate Any Form Of Nuclear Blackmail’: Rajnath Singh In South KoreaWho Is Ryan Williams? Footballer Who Gave Up Australian Citizenship To Play For IndiaCongress To Join Tamil Nadu Cabinet After 59 Years As Vijay Expands TVK GovernmentIndia, Italy Elevate Ties; PM Modi’s ‘Melody’ Gift To Meloni Goes Viral | Headlines@9Parle Industries Shares Jump 5% After Modi-Meloni’s ‘Melody’ Moment, But There’s A CatchItaly PM Giorgia Meloni Speaks Hindi During Joint Presser With PM Modi | Viral ‘Melodi’ Moment’Anarchic Mindset’: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For ‘Traitors’ Remark On PM Modi, Amit Shah’Warned India of Economic Storm, Then Flew to Italy on ₹4,000 Crore Jet’: Rahul Gandhi Slams PM ModiIndia Successfully Tests Suryastra Precision Rocket System With 300-Km Strike CapabilityThree Newly Married Women Die Within Five Days Across MP And UP, Families Allege Dowry Harassment123Photostories”Faltu khana na banaye, agar koi…” CM Yogi Adityanath urges people on being mindful while cooking: 5 tips on how to cook ‘right’ at homeMorning affirmation at 5 am: What happens when your brain hears positive words before sunriseInternational Tea Day 2026: 6 culinary uses of tea leaves apart from making teaUrvashi Rautela said ‘too much’ is the ultimate mood with not one but two extravagant gowns at Cannes 2026Exclusive – From Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah to Dhurandhar, Rakesh Bedi and Asit Kumarr Modi get candid about their bond and journey; actor reacts to David Dhawan’s remark8 strange and uncomfortable signs you are going through a quiet spiritual awakening8 giraffe facts that shock even wildlife loversGauranga Das shares 3 signs of a loyal partner10 exercises that can keep the heart healthyFeeling Stressed? Try These Astrological Tips to Calm Down Your Mind123Hot PicksSBI apprentice recruitment 2026US Iran warCBSE Class 12 re-evaluation 2026Gold price predictionAdani Group stocksNEET exam cancelledMHT CET Result 2026Top TrendingCBSE Answer SheetTwisha SharmaIPL Playoff RaceTN Results 2026Odisha 12th ResultsIPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026India VS Afghanistan Squad AnnouncementMHT CET Result DateJahangir Khan

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. NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair a meeting of the Union government’s council of ministers on Thursday, with discussions expected on the functioning of ministries, recent policy decisions, their outcomes and future plans, official sources said.The meeting, the first of the council of ministers this year, assumes political significance as it comes after the BJP’s strong performance in the recent Assembly elections in West Bengal and Assam, besides the formation of an NDA government in Puducherry again. It is also taking place amid speculation of a cabinet reshuffle.All cabinet ministers, ministers of state with independent charge and ministers of state will attend the meeting, reported PTI.According to sources, the functioning of various ministries and departments, key decisions taken in the recent past and their impact will be reviewed. Discussions are also expected on future priorities and the implementation of government schemes and programmes to ensure maximum success.The meeting is likely to focus on reforms across sectors aimed at benefiting common people. PM Modi had earlier outlined reform priorities for the next 10 years, asserting that his government’s “Reform Express” has delivered systemic transformation and benefitted common citizens in a significant way.The prime minister is also expected to raise the ongoing West Asia crisis and its economic implications. Sources said he may direct ministries and departments to take steps to minimise inconvenience to citizens and reduce the impact on affected sectors.Sectors such as energy, agriculture, fertilisers, aviation, shipping and logistics are likely to receive focused attention during the meeting.Soon after the West Asia conflict began, PM Modi had directed all concerned to take every possible step to ameliorate the problems of citizens and sectors affected by it.PM Modi has been holding meetings of the entire council of ministers from time to time to discuss key policy and governance issues, but Thursday’s meeting is being closely watched due to its political timing and broader governance agenda.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’India Won’t Tolerate Any Form Of Nuclear Blackmail’: Rajnath Singh In South KoreaWho Is Ryan Williams? Footballer Who Gave Up Australian Citizenship To Play For IndiaCongress To Join Tamil Nadu Cabinet After 59 Years As Vijay Expands TVK GovernmentIndia, Italy Elevate Ties; PM Modi’s ‘Melody’ Gift To Meloni Goes Viral | Headlines@9Parle Industries Shares Jump 5% After Modi-Meloni’s ‘Melody’ Moment, But There’s A CatchItaly PM Giorgia Meloni Speaks Hindi During Joint Presser With PM Modi | Viral ‘Melodi’ Moment’Anarchic Mindset’: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For ‘Traitors’ Remark On PM Modi, Amit Shah’Warned India of Economic Storm, Then Flew to Italy on ₹4,000 Crore Jet’: Rahul Gandhi Slams PM ModiIndia Successfully Tests Suryastra Precision Rocket System With 300-Km Strike CapabilityThree Newly Married Women Die Within Five Days Across MP And UP, Families Allege Dowry Harassment123PhotostoriesMorning affirmation at 5 am: What happens when your brain hears positive words before sunriseInternational Tea Day 2026: 6 culinary uses of tea leaves apart from making teaUrvashi Rautela said ‘too much’ is the ultimate mood with not one but two extravagant gowns at Cannes 2026Exclusive – From Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah to Dhurandhar, Rakesh Bedi and Asit Kumarr Modi get candid about their bond and journey; actor reacts to David Dhawan’s remark8 strange and uncomfortable signs you are going through a quiet spiritual awakening8 giraffe facts that shock even wildlife loversGauranga Das shares 3 signs of a loyal partner10 exercises that can keep the heart healthyFeeling Stressed? Try These Astrological Tips to Calm Down Your MindNidhi Kumar recreated Madhuri Dixit’s magic at Cannes 2026’s red carpet — and the internet is officially obsessed123Hot PicksSBI apprentice recruitment 2026US Iran warCBSE Class 12 re-evaluation 2026Gold price predictionAdani Group stocksNEET exam cancelledMHT CET Result 2026Top TrendingCBSE Answer SheetTwisha SharmaIPL Playoff RaceTN Results 2026Odisha 12th ResultsIPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026India VS Afghanistan Squad AnnouncementMHT CET Result DateJahangir Khan

. NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair a meeting of the Union government’s council of ministers on Thursday, with discussions expected on the functioning of ministries, recent policy decisions, their outcomes and future plans, official sources said.The meeting, the first of the council of ministers this year, assumes political significance as it comes after the BJP’s strong performance in the recent Assembly elections in West Bengal and Assam, besides the formation of an NDA government in Puducherry again. It is also taking place amid speculation of a cabinet reshuffle.All cabinet ministers, ministers of state with independent charge and ministers of state will attend the meeting, reported PTI.According to sources, the functioning of various ministries and departments, key decisions taken in the recent past and their impact will be reviewed. Discussions are also expected on future priorities and the implementation of government schemes and programmes to ensure maximum success.The meeting is likely to focus on reforms across sectors aimed at benefiting common people. PM Modi had earlier outlined reform priorities for the next 10 years, asserting that his government’s “Reform Express” has delivered systemic transformation and benefitted common citizens in a significant way.The prime minister is also expected to raise the ongoing West Asia crisis and its economic implications. Sources said he may direct ministries and departments to take steps to minimise inconvenience to citizens and reduce the impact on affected sectors.Sectors such as energy, agriculture, fertilisers, aviation, shipping and logistics are likely to receive focused attention during the meeting.Soon after the West Asia conflict began, PM Modi had directed all concerned to take every possible step to ameliorate the problems of citizens and sectors affected by it.PM Modi has been holding meetings of the entire council of ministers from time to time to discuss key policy and governance issues, but Thursday’s meeting is being closely watched due to its political timing and broader governance agenda.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’India Won’t Tolerate Any Form Of Nuclear Blackmail’: Rajnath Singh In South KoreaWho Is Ryan Williams? Footballer Who Gave Up Australian Citizenship To Play For IndiaCongress To Join Tamil Nadu Cabinet After 59 Years As Vijay Expands TVK GovernmentIndia, Italy Elevate Ties; PM Modi’s ‘Melody’ Gift To Meloni Goes Viral | Headlines@9Parle Industries Shares Jump 5% After Modi-Meloni’s ‘Melody’ Moment, But There’s A CatchItaly PM Giorgia Meloni Speaks Hindi During Joint Presser With PM Modi | Viral ‘Melodi’ Moment’Anarchic Mindset’: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For ‘Traitors’ Remark On PM Modi, Amit Shah’Warned India of Economic Storm, Then Flew to Italy on ₹4,000 Crore Jet’: Rahul Gandhi Slams PM ModiIndia Successfully Tests Suryastra Precision Rocket System With 300-Km Strike CapabilityThree Newly Married Women Die Within Five Days Across MP And UP, Families Allege Dowry Harassment123PhotostoriesMorning affirmation at 5 am: What happens when your brain hears positive words before sunriseInternational Tea Day 2026: 6 culinary uses of tea leaves apart from making teaUrvashi Rautela said ‘too much’ is the ultimate mood with not one but two extravagant gowns at Cannes 2026Exclusive – From Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah to Dhurandhar, Rakesh Bedi and Asit Kumarr Modi get candid about their bond and journey; actor reacts to David Dhawan’s remark8 strange and uncomfortable signs you are going through a quiet spiritual awakening8 giraffe facts that shock even wildlife loversGauranga Das shares 3 signs of a loyal partner10 exercises that can keep the heart healthyFeeling Stressed? Try These Astrological Tips to Calm Down Your MindNidhi Kumar recreated Madhuri Dixit’s magic at Cannes 2026’s red carpet — and the internet is officially obsessed123Hot PicksSBI apprentice recruitment 2026US Iran warCBSE Class 12 re-evaluation 2026Gold price predictionAdani Group stocksNEET exam cancelledMHT CET Result 2026Top TrendingCBSE Answer SheetTwisha SharmaIPL Playoff RaceTN Results 2026Odisha 12th ResultsIPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026India VS Afghanistan Squad AnnouncementMHT CET Result DateJahangir Khan

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. NEW DELHI: In a move that may prevent further stress on the fragile Himalayan ecosystem and upper reaches of river Ganga in Uttarakhand, the Centre Wednesday told Supreme Court that it’s “not in favour of permitting any new hydro-electric project in Alaknanda and Bhagirathi river basins” apart from the seven that have either been commissioned or have made substantial progress in construction.The Centre’s view was expressed by environment ministry through an affidavit to SC which has been examining the issue of allowing new hydel projects in the upper reaches of Ganga river basins since the Kedarnath disaster of 2013.The decision means the Centre will now go ahead with only seven of the 28 projects planned earlier and scrutinised by various committees. Centre told SC the risk/damage to environment, including health of the river, is far greater than financial/economic benefits of the remaining 21 hydro-power projects with a total capacity of about 2,100 MW..SC is expected to pass its order on the issue at the next hearing on Aug 20. It had in Jan granted three months to the Centre to take a final decision.The seven projects the govt wants to continue include four already commissioned – Tehri Stage-II (1000 MW), Singoli Bhatwari (99 MW), Madhmaheshwar (15 MW) and Kaliganga-II (4.5 MW) – and three, Tapovan Vishnugad (520 MW), Vishnugad Pipalkoti (444 MW) and Phata Byung (76 MW), which are in advanced stages of construction. The affidavit, representing “collective and consensus decision” of three ministries – Jal shakti, power and environment – argued that these seven “may be permitted to proceed, subject to strict compliance with applicable statutory provisions and environmental safeguards”.Better sense has prevailed: Green activistsIt is good to see that better sense has prevailed and the govt has taken this wise and welcome step to prevent future tragedies like 2013 and protect the fragile and disaster prone ecology of the Ganga-Himalayan basin,” said Mallika Bhanot of Ganga Ahvaan, a citizen forum working towards conservation of Ganga and Himalayan ecosystem. The decision to not have any new hydro-electric project in the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi river basins was taken following inter-ministerial consultations on recommendations of different expert committees. One of the committees wanted 28 projects to be allowed in the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi basins while the other one, comprising officials from Jal shakti and environment ministries, recommended only five.About the AuthorVishwa MohanVishwa Mohan is Senior Editor at The Times of India. He writes on environment, climate change, agriculture, water resources and clean energy, tracking policy issues and climate diplomacy. He has been covering Parliament since 2003 to see how politics shaped up domestic policy and India’s position at global platform. Before switching over to explore sustainable development issues, Vishwa had covered internal security and investigative agencies for more than a decade.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’India Won’t Tolerate Any Form Of Nuclear Blackmail’: Rajnath Singh In South KoreaWho Is Ryan Williams? Footballer Who Gave Up Australian Citizenship To Play For IndiaCongress To Join Tamil Nadu Cabinet After 59 Years As Vijay Expands TVK GovernmentIndia, Italy Elevate Ties; PM Modi’s ‘Melody’ Gift To Meloni Goes Viral | Headlines@9Parle Industries Shares Jump 5% After Modi-Meloni’s ‘Melody’ Moment, But There’s A CatchItaly PM Giorgia Meloni Speaks Hindi During Joint Presser With PM Modi | Viral ‘Melodi’ Moment’Anarchic Mindset’: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For ‘Traitors’ Remark On PM Modi, Amit Shah’Warned India of Economic Storm, Then Flew to Italy on ₹4,000 Crore Jet’: Rahul Gandhi Slams PM ModiIndia Successfully Tests Suryastra Precision Rocket System With 300-Km Strike CapabilityThree Newly Married Women Die Within Five Days Across MP And UP, Families Allege Dowry Harassment123PhotostoriesInternational Tea Day 2026: 6 culinary uses of tea leaves apart from making teaUrvashi Rautela said ‘too much’ is the ultimate mood with not one but two extravagant gowns at Cannes 2026Exclusive – From Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah to Dhurandhar, Rakesh Bedi and Asit Kumarr Modi get candid about their bond and journey; actor reacts to David Dhawan’s remark8 strange and uncomfortable signs you are going through a quiet spiritual awakening8 giraffe facts that shock even wildlife loversGauranga Das shares 3 signs of a loyal partner10 exercises that can keep the heart healthyFeeling Stressed? Try These Astrological Tips to Calm Down Your MindNidhi Kumar recreated Madhuri Dixit’s magic at Cannes 2026’s red carpet — and the internet is officially obsessed5 heaviest and biggest birds on earth: The real heavyweights of nature123Hot PicksSBI apprentice recruitment 2026US Iran warCBSE Class 12 re-evaluation 2026Gold price predictionAdani Group stocksNEET exam cancelledMHT CET Result 2026Top TrendingCBSE Answer SheetTwisha SharmaIPL Playoff RaceTN Results 2026Odisha 12th ResultsIPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026India VS Afghanistan Squad AnnouncementMHT CET Result DateJahangir Khan

. NEW DELHI: In a move that may prevent further stress on the fragile Himalayan ecosystem and upper reaches of river Ganga in Uttarakhand, the Centre Wednesday told Supreme Court that it’s “not in favour of permitting any new hydro-electric project in Alaknanda and Bhagirathi river basins” apart from the seven that have either been commissioned or have made substantial progress in construction.The Centre’s view was expressed by environment ministry through an affidavit to SC which has been examining the issue of allowing new hydel projects in the upper reaches of Ganga river basins since the Kedarnath disaster of 2013.The decision means the Centre will now go ahead with only seven of the 28 projects planned earlier and scrutinised by various committees. Centre told SC the risk/damage to environment, including health of the river, is far greater than financial/economic benefits of the remaining 21 hydro-power projects with a total capacity of about 2,100 MW..SC is expected to pass its order on the issue at the next hearing on Aug 20. It had in Jan granted three months to the Centre to take a final decision.The seven projects the govt wants to continue include four already commissioned – Tehri Stage-II (1000 MW), Singoli Bhatwari (99 MW), Madhmaheshwar (15 MW) and Kaliganga-II (4.5 MW) – and three, Tapovan Vishnugad (520 MW), Vishnugad Pipalkoti (444 MW) and Phata Byung (76 MW), which are in advanced stages of construction. The affidavit, representing “collective and consensus decision” of three ministries – Jal shakti, power and environment – argued that these seven “may be permitted to proceed, subject to strict compliance with applicable statutory provisions and environmental safeguards”.Better sense has prevailed: Green activistsIt is good to see that better sense has prevailed and the govt has taken this wise and welcome step to prevent future tragedies like 2013 and protect the fragile and disaster prone ecology of the Ganga-Himalayan basin,” said Mallika Bhanot of Ganga Ahvaan, a citizen forum working towards conservation of Ganga and Himalayan ecosystem. The decision to not have any new hydro-electric project in the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi river basins was taken following inter-ministerial consultations on recommendations of different expert committees. One of the committees wanted 28 projects to be allowed in the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi basins while the other one, comprising officials from Jal shakti and environment ministries, recommended only five.About the AuthorVishwa MohanVishwa Mohan is Senior Editor at The Times of India. He writes on environment, climate change, agriculture, water resources and clean energy, tracking policy issues and climate diplomacy. He has been covering Parliament since 2003 to see how politics shaped up domestic policy and India’s position at global platform. Before switching over to explore sustainable development issues, Vishwa had covered internal security and investigative agencies for more than a decade.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’India Won’t Tolerate Any Form Of Nuclear Blackmail’: Rajnath Singh In South KoreaWho Is Ryan Williams? Footballer Who Gave Up Australian Citizenship To Play For IndiaCongress To Join Tamil Nadu Cabinet After 59 Years As Vijay Expands TVK GovernmentIndia, Italy Elevate Ties; PM Modi’s ‘Melody’ Gift To Meloni Goes Viral | Headlines@9Parle Industries Shares Jump 5% After Modi-Meloni’s ‘Melody’ Moment, But There’s A CatchItaly PM Giorgia Meloni Speaks Hindi During Joint Presser With PM Modi | Viral ‘Melodi’ Moment’Anarchic Mindset’: BJP Slams Rahul Gandhi For ‘Traitors’ Remark On PM Modi, Amit Shah’Warned India of Economic Storm, Then Flew to Italy on ₹4,000 Crore Jet’: Rahul Gandhi Slams PM ModiIndia Successfully Tests Suryastra Precision Rocket System With 300-Km Strike CapabilityThree Newly Married Women Die Within Five Days Across MP And UP, Families Allege Dowry Harassment123PhotostoriesInternational Tea Day 2026: 6 culinary uses of tea leaves apart from making teaUrvashi Rautela said ‘too much’ is the ultimate mood with not one but two extravagant gowns at Cannes 2026Exclusive – From Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah to Dhurandhar, Rakesh Bedi and Asit Kumarr Modi get candid about their bond and journey; actor reacts to David Dhawan’s remark8 strange and uncomfortable signs you are going through a quiet spiritual awakening8 giraffe facts that shock even wildlife loversGauranga Das shares 3 signs of a loyal partner10 exercises that can keep the heart healthyFeeling Stressed? Try These Astrological Tips to Calm Down Your MindNidhi Kumar recreated Madhuri Dixit’s magic at Cannes 2026’s red carpet — and the internet is officially obsessed5 heaviest and biggest birds on earth: The real heavyweights of nature123Hot PicksSBI apprentice recruitment 2026US Iran warCBSE Class 12 re-evaluation 2026Gold price predictionAdani Group stocksNEET exam cancelledMHT CET Result 2026Top TrendingCBSE Answer SheetTwisha SharmaIPL Playoff RaceTN Results 2026Odisha 12th ResultsIPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026India VS Afghanistan Squad AnnouncementMHT CET Result DateJahangir Khan

Vamsikrishna 0