June 12, 2026

(File photo) NEW DELHI: Barely two months after the National Medical Commission (NMC) prohibited medical colleges from charging MBBS fees beyond the prescribed 54 months of academic study, a complaint from Kerala has alleged that colleges continued to collect fees for five years, setting up the first major test of the regulator’s willingness to enforce its own order.Acting on a complaint filed by the Combined Association of Medicos & Parents (CAMP), Kerala, the NMC’s Undergraduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB) has directed the state’s Directorate of Medical Education (DME) to ensure refund of excess fees allegedly collected from MBBS students and submit a compliance report.The complaint alleges that colleges continued to collect fees for 60 months despite the NMC’s April directive limiting fee collection to 54 months of academic study, making Kerala the first major test of the regulator’s enforcement resolve.On April 7, the NMC clarified that MBBS fees can be charged only for the prescribed 4.5 years, or 54 months, of academic study and not for the internship period. The Commission said charging fees beyond the academic duration was inconsistent with statutory provisions and Supreme Court rulings governing educational fees.If the Kerala allegations are substantiated, colleges could face action under the Maintenance of Standards of Medical Education Regulations (MSMER), 2023, including penalties of up to Rs 1 crore per violation, withholding of accreditation, reduction of seats, admission curbs and, in serious cases, withdrawal of permission or recognition.The regulations empower the NMC to act against institutions that violate statutory provisions or regulatory standards. While colleges may be given an opportunity to rectify deficiencies, repeated or serious violations can attract stronger action. The Kerala complaint is significant as the first publicly known case to surface after the NMC’s fee clarification and could indicate whether the regulator intends to use its enforcement powers or limit its intervention to directing refunds. However, it remains unclear whether penal provisions will be invoked if the allegations are proven.An RTI reply has raised fresh questions, with the NMC stating that it does not maintain records of MBBS fee-related complaints and merely forwards them to state authorities. The Kerala case could now become a test of whether violations of the 54-month fee cap attract penalties under NMC regulations or end with refunds alone.The NMC said its immediate priority is to ensure that students are not charged fees beyond the prescribed framework and that any excess amount collected is refunded. It added that the matter is being examined through due process and that any regulatory action will depend on the findings, nature of the violation and the institution’s response.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorAnuja JaiswalAnuja Jaiswal is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India, with an impressive 18-year career in narrative journalism. She specializes in health and heritage reporting, expertly simplifying complex health information to make it engaging and understandable for readers. Her deep dives into heritage topics are well-researched, resulting in captivating narratives that resonate with her audience. Over the years, she has worked in Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh and West UP, gaining diverse on-ground experience that shapes her storytelling.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosThree Killed As Massive Fire Breaks Out In Multi-Storey Residential Building In Delhi’s TughlakabadJaishankar Calls Out Europe’s ‘Double Standards’, Says European Weapons Have Been Used Against IndiaFalta Strongman Paraded In Shorts By Cops After Arrest In Falta | WatchAll 28 Chief Ministers Attend NITI Aayog Meeting, Marking End of Recent Boycott TrendKirti Azad Dismisses Exit Talks, Says Didi Will Fix Kalyan Banerjee Dispute | WatchCongress Sweeps Three Of Four Karnataka Rs Seats As Poll Ends Without ContestBJP Wins All Three MP Rajya Sabha Seats Unopposed After Congress Nominee RejectedRam Mandir Funds Issue Takes New Turn With Call For Investigation; Calls For Accountability Emerge’Abhishek Banerjee Destroyed TMC’: Suspended Leader Riju Dutta Launches Fresh AttackIndia-Bangladesh Border Standoff Leaves 55-year-old Stranded In No-Man’s Land123Photostories6 Fascinating plants that do not produce flowers but still thrive in natureInland Taipan changes colour with the seasons: Inside the strange and dramatic seasonal color change explainedIs your child carrying emotional baggage? 6 subtle signs and what parents can do to help10 beautiful baby girl names starting with the letter T“This will help prevent…and improve..” Why did Amit Shah praise this rice varietyShoaib Malik to Glenn Maxwell: 7 international cricketers who married Indian women27-year-old woman shares 5 reasons she doesn’t want to get married earlyNo crowds, no chaos: This remote Himalayan valley in Uttarkhand feels frozen in time5 venomous snakes you’ll only find in Africa and where to spot them5 things fathers should never do and how these mistakes affect a child’s personality123Hot Picks147000 Medical BillGulf of Oman attackFifa World Cup Opening CeremonyShakiraIndia Vs Afghanistan HighlightsVaibhav SooryavanshiLewis HamiltonCJP ProtestHow to Watch FIFA world cup highlightsTop TrendingHaryana Gym Owner MurderGuru Randhawa Gym FiringGold Rate TodayFIFA World Cup 2026Delhi Hotel FireSingappen Special ForceCJP ProtestCBSE Class 10 Second Board ResultBengaluru Child DeathKarnataka Murder

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins
(File photo) NEW DELHI: Barely two months after the National Medical Commission (NMC) prohibited medical colleges from charging MBBS fees beyond the prescribed 54 months of academic study, a complaint from Kerala has alleged that colleges continued to collect fees for five years, setting up the first major test of the regulator’s willingness to enforce its own order.Acting on a complaint filed by the Combined Association of Medicos & Parents (CAMP), Kerala, the NMC’s Undergraduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB) has directed the state’s Directorate of Medical Education (DME) to ensure refund of excess fees allegedly collected from MBBS students and submit a compliance report.The complaint alleges that colleges continued to collect fees for 60 months despite the NMC’s April directive limiting fee collection to 54 months of academic study, making Kerala the first major test of the regulator’s enforcement resolve.On April 7, the NMC clarified that MBBS fees can be charged only for the prescribed 4.5 years, or 54 months, of academic study and not for the internship period. The Commission said charging fees beyond the academic duration was inconsistent with statutory provisions and Supreme Court rulings governing educational fees.If the Kerala allegations are substantiated, colleges could face action under the Maintenance of Standards of Medical Education Regulations (MSMER), 2023, including penalties of up to Rs 1 crore per violation, withholding of accreditation, reduction of seats, admission curbs and, in serious cases, withdrawal of permission or recognition.The regulations empower the NMC to act against institutions that violate statutory provisions or regulatory standards. While colleges may be given an opportunity to rectify deficiencies, repeated or serious violations can attract stronger action. The Kerala complaint is significant as the first publicly known case to surface after the NMC’s fee clarification and could indicate whether the regulator intends to use its enforcement powers or limit its intervention to directing refunds. However, it remains unclear whether penal provisions will be invoked if the allegations are proven.An RTI reply has raised fresh questions, with the NMC stating that it does not maintain records of MBBS fee-related complaints and merely forwards them to state authorities. The Kerala case could now become a test of whether violations of the 54-month fee cap attract penalties under NMC regulations or end with refunds alone.The NMC said its immediate priority is to ensure that students are not charged fees beyond the prescribed framework and that any excess amount collected is refunded. It added that the matter is being examined through due process and that any regulatory action will depend on the findings, nature of the violation and the institution’s response.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorAnuja JaiswalAnuja Jaiswal is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India, with an impressive 18-year career in narrative journalism. She specializes in health and heritage reporting, expertly simplifying complex health information to make it engaging and understandable for readers. Her deep dives into heritage topics are well-researched, resulting in captivating narratives that resonate with her audience. Over the years, she has worked in Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh and West UP, gaining diverse on-ground experience that shapes her storytelling.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosThree Killed As Massive Fire Breaks Out In Multi-Storey Residential Building In Delhi’s TughlakabadJaishankar Calls Out Europe’s ‘Double Standards’, Says European Weapons Have Been Used Against IndiaFalta Strongman Paraded In Shorts By Cops After Arrest In Falta | WatchAll 28 Chief Ministers Attend NITI Aayog Meeting, Marking End of Recent Boycott TrendKirti Azad Dismisses Exit Talks, Says Didi Will Fix Kalyan Banerjee Dispute | WatchCongress Sweeps Three Of Four Karnataka Rs Seats As Poll Ends Without ContestBJP Wins All Three MP Rajya Sabha Seats Unopposed After Congress Nominee RejectedRam Mandir Funds Issue Takes New Turn With Call For Investigation; Calls For Accountability Emerge’Abhishek Banerjee Destroyed TMC’: Suspended Leader Riju Dutta Launches Fresh AttackIndia-Bangladesh Border Standoff Leaves 55-year-old Stranded In No-Man’s Land123Photostories6 Fascinating plants that do not produce flowers but still thrive in natureInland Taipan changes colour with the seasons: Inside the strange and dramatic seasonal color change explainedIs your child carrying emotional baggage? 6 subtle signs and what parents can do to help10 beautiful baby girl names starting with the letter T“This will help prevent…and improve..” Why did Amit Shah praise this rice varietyShoaib Malik to Glenn Maxwell: 7 international cricketers who married Indian women27-year-old woman shares 5 reasons she doesn’t want to get married earlyNo crowds, no chaos: This remote Himalayan valley in Uttarkhand feels frozen in time5 venomous snakes you’ll only find in Africa and where to spot them5 things fathers should never do and how these mistakes affect a child’s personality123Hot Picks147000 Medical BillGulf of Oman attackFifa World Cup Opening CeremonyShakiraIndia Vs Afghanistan HighlightsVaibhav SooryavanshiLewis HamiltonCJP ProtestHow to Watch FIFA world cup highlightsTop TrendingHaryana Gym Owner MurderGuru Randhawa Gym FiringGold Rate TodayFIFA World Cup 2026Delhi Hotel FireSingappen Special ForceCJP ProtestCBSE Class 10 Second Board ResultBengaluru Child DeathKarnataka Murder


Kerala colleges face heat over MBBS fee collection despite NMC order

NEW DELHI: Barely two months after the National Medical Commission (NMC) prohibited medical colleges from charging MBBS fees beyond the prescribed 54 months of academic study, a complaint from Kerala has alleged that colleges continued to collect fees for five years, setting up the first major test of the regulator’s willingness to enforce its own order.Acting on a complaint filed by the Combined Association of Medicos & Parents (CAMP), Kerala, the NMC’s Undergraduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB) has directed the state’s Directorate of Medical Education (DME) to ensure refund of excess fees allegedly collected from MBBS students and submit a compliance report.The complaint alleges that colleges continued to collect fees for 60 months despite the NMC’s April directive limiting fee collection to 54 months of academic study, making Kerala the first major test of the regulator’s enforcement resolve.On April 7, the NMC clarified that MBBS fees can be charged only for the prescribed 4.5 years, or 54 months, of academic study and not for the internship period. The Commission said charging fees beyond the academic duration was inconsistent with statutory provisions and Supreme Court rulings governing educational fees.If the Kerala allegations are substantiated, colleges could face action under the Maintenance of Standards of Medical Education Regulations (MSMER), 2023, including penalties of up to Rs 1 crore per violation, withholding of accreditation, reduction of seats, admission curbs and, in serious cases, withdrawal of permission or recognition.The regulations empower the NMC to act against institutions that violate statutory provisions or regulatory standards. While colleges may be given an opportunity to rectify deficiencies, repeated or serious violations can attract stronger action. The Kerala complaint is significant as the first publicly known case to surface after the NMC’s fee clarification and could indicate whether the regulator intends to use its enforcement powers or limit its intervention to directing refunds. However, it remains unclear whether penal provisions will be invoked if the allegations are proven.An RTI reply has raised fresh questions, with the NMC stating that it does not maintain records of MBBS fee-related complaints and merely forwards them to state authorities. The Kerala case could now become a test of whether violations of the 54-month fee cap attract penalties under NMC regulations or end with refunds alone.The NMC said its immediate priority is to ensure that students are not charged fees beyond the prescribed framework and that any excess amount collected is refunded. It added that the matter is being examined through due process and that any regulatory action will depend on the findings, nature of the violation and the institution’s response.



Source link

Leave a Reply

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

Related News

Image credit: ANI NEW DELHI: Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has asked defence minister Rajnath Singh to rethink the government’s decision against expanding the INS Baaz runway, arguing it would be less ecologically destructive than building a new airport in Great Nicobar.In a letter to Singh on Friday, Ramesh said he first proposed the INS Baaz expansion alternative on May 16. He suggested it as a way to protect the environment while still meeting strategic military objectives in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.But on June 8, anonymous “defence ministry sources” told the media that expanding the runway beyond 4,500 feet would itself cause ecological damage. Ramesh said he found this concern ironic given the scale of destruction planned for the proposed greenfield airport site.Environmental red flagsRamesh laid out seven reasons why the proposed airport location at Gandhi Nagar-Shastri Nagar is worse than upgrading the existing naval air station.The new site would require leveling two forest-covered hills that rise 115 metres each. It would eat up 225 acres of protected forest and another 130 acres of deemed forest-land that belongs to the Shompen tribal community and that they still use.Around 142 acres of the proposed site fall under ICRZ-1A, the highest protected category under coastal zone rules. That area includes turtle nesting beaches, coral reefs, and nesting grounds of the endangered Nicobar Megapode.The project would also require filling a creek and moving saltwater crocodiles elsewhere. Two villages housing 234 ex-servicemen families sit directly on the proposed site, and those families would be uprooted for the third time in recent years.Ramesh described the area as largely undisturbed, pristine forest bordering an ecologically sensitive coastline. He said no serious or systematic environmental impact assessment has been done for the site.This matters, he argued, because Great Nicobar is designated as both an Important Bird Area and an Endemic Bird Area. It also falls under two major international bird flyways, the Central Asian and the East Asian-Australasian routes, that bring migratory species to the island every year.’Compelled to speak’ after six yearsThe Congress leader noted that the Galathea Bay airport site was first announced as a dual-purpose facility by the Home Ministry on March 30, 2022. It took the Defence Ministry more than six years to comment on it, and even that was through anonymous briefings.”The disastrous ecological impacts of the Great Nicobar Island Project… have become all-too-evident and are inviting wide-spread concern,” Ramesh wrote. He said this public pressure has forced the ministry to finally address the issue.He copied the letter to Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, reminding him that he has written at least four times over the past two years about what he calls the “demonstrably dubious” environmental impact assessment of the entire project.Jairam Ramesh’s letter follows recent Defence Ministry statements defending the Great Nicobar project as strategically vital for India’s maritime interests. Ministry sources dismissed critics as suffering from “geographical illiteracy” and said INS Baaz’s runway would not be part of the new project.The government plans to build an international container transshipment port, a civilian-cum-naval airport, a township and a power plant on the island. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has alleged the project is actually meant to benefit one businessman who wants to build hotels and casinos on ecologically sensitive land.Based on inputs from PTIGet the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosCongress Plans Massive Nationwide Stir Against Centre, Targets Inflation, Job Crisis And Paper LeaksAbhishek Banerjee Faces Six-Hour CID Interrogation In Bengal Signature Forgery CaseStone Shatters Window Of Shatabdi Express Near Firozabad; RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Was On BoardJaishankar Says US Asked India To Buy Russian Oil In 2022, Slams Double Standards Over Energy PolicyThree Killed As Massive Fire Breaks Out In Multi-Storey Residential Building In Delhi’s TughlakabadJaishankar Calls Out Europe’s ‘Double Standards’, Says European Weapons Have Been Used Against IndiaFalta Strongman Paraded In Shorts By Cops After Arrest In Falta | WatchAll 28 Chief Ministers Attend NITI Aayog Meeting, Marking End of Recent Boycott TrendKirti Azad Dismisses Exit Talks, Says Didi Will Fix Kalyan Banerjee Dispute | WatchCongress Sweeps Three Of Four Karnataka Rs Seats As Poll Ends Without Contest123PhotostoriesSuccess quote of the day by Tom Hanks: “Never give up because…”Love Lessons Written in Your Birth Number7 home interior design styles influencing modern residential spacesKangana Ranaut continues her love affair with Indian handlooms in a stunning Patan Patola saree10 foods that help reduce bloating naturally in summer6 Fascinating plants that do not produce flowers but still thrive in natureInland Taipan changes colour with the seasons: Inside the strange and dramatic seasonal color change explainedIs your child carrying emotional baggage? 6 subtle signs and what parents can do to help10 beautiful baby girl names starting with the letter T“This will help prevent…and improve..” Why did Amit Shah praise this rice variety123Hot Picks147000 Medical BillGulf of Oman attackFifa World Cup Opening CeremonyShakiraIndia Vs Afghanistan HighlightsISC Revaluation ResultSpaceX IPODelhi weatherIndustrial fuel banTop TrendingTMC rebel MPIndian RupeeSpaceX IPOFIFA World Cup 2026Nipah virusCJP Lucknow ProtestBharatiya Antariksh HackathonKerala SSLC Revaluation ResultBengaluru Child DeathKarnataka Murder

Image credit: ANI NEW DELHI: Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has asked defence minister Rajnath Singh to rethink the government’s decision against expanding the INS Baaz runway, arguing it would be less ecologically destructive than building a new airport in Great Nicobar.In a letter to Singh on Friday, Ramesh said he first proposed the INS Baaz expansion alternative on May 16. He suggested it as a way to protect the environment while still meeting strategic military objectives in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.But on June 8, anonymous “defence ministry sources” told the media that expanding the runway beyond 4,500 feet would itself cause ecological damage. Ramesh said he found this concern ironic given the scale of destruction planned for the proposed greenfield airport site.Environmental red flagsRamesh laid out seven reasons why the proposed airport location at Gandhi Nagar-Shastri Nagar is worse than upgrading the existing naval air station.The new site would require leveling two forest-covered hills that rise 115 metres each. It would eat up 225 acres of protected forest and another 130 acres of deemed forest-land that belongs to the Shompen tribal community and that they still use.Around 142 acres of the proposed site fall under ICRZ-1A, the highest protected category under coastal zone rules. That area includes turtle nesting beaches, coral reefs, and nesting grounds of the endangered Nicobar Megapode.The project would also require filling a creek and moving saltwater crocodiles elsewhere. Two villages housing 234 ex-servicemen families sit directly on the proposed site, and those families would be uprooted for the third time in recent years.Ramesh described the area as largely undisturbed, pristine forest bordering an ecologically sensitive coastline. He said no serious or systematic environmental impact assessment has been done for the site.This matters, he argued, because Great Nicobar is designated as both an Important Bird Area and an Endemic Bird Area. It also falls under two major international bird flyways, the Central Asian and the East Asian-Australasian routes, that bring migratory species to the island every year.’Compelled to speak’ after six yearsThe Congress leader noted that the Galathea Bay airport site was first announced as a dual-purpose facility by the Home Ministry on March 30, 2022. It took the Defence Ministry more than six years to comment on it, and even that was through anonymous briefings.”The disastrous ecological impacts of the Great Nicobar Island Project… have become all-too-evident and are inviting wide-spread concern,” Ramesh wrote. He said this public pressure has forced the ministry to finally address the issue.He copied the letter to Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, reminding him that he has written at least four times over the past two years about what he calls the “demonstrably dubious” environmental impact assessment of the entire project.Jairam Ramesh’s letter follows recent Defence Ministry statements defending the Great Nicobar project as strategically vital for India’s maritime interests. Ministry sources dismissed critics as suffering from “geographical illiteracy” and said INS Baaz’s runway would not be part of the new project.The government plans to build an international container transshipment port, a civilian-cum-naval airport, a township and a power plant on the island. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has alleged the project is actually meant to benefit one businessman who wants to build hotels and casinos on ecologically sensitive land.Based on inputs from PTIGet the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosCongress Plans Massive Nationwide Stir Against Centre, Targets Inflation, Job Crisis And Paper LeaksAbhishek Banerjee Faces Six-Hour CID Interrogation In Bengal Signature Forgery CaseStone Shatters Window Of Shatabdi Express Near Firozabad; RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Was On BoardJaishankar Says US Asked India To Buy Russian Oil In 2022, Slams Double Standards Over Energy PolicyThree Killed As Massive Fire Breaks Out In Multi-Storey Residential Building In Delhi’s TughlakabadJaishankar Calls Out Europe’s ‘Double Standards’, Says European Weapons Have Been Used Against IndiaFalta Strongman Paraded In Shorts By Cops After Arrest In Falta | WatchAll 28 Chief Ministers Attend NITI Aayog Meeting, Marking End of Recent Boycott TrendKirti Azad Dismisses Exit Talks, Says Didi Will Fix Kalyan Banerjee Dispute | WatchCongress Sweeps Three Of Four Karnataka Rs Seats As Poll Ends Without Contest123PhotostoriesSuccess quote of the day by Tom Hanks: “Never give up because…”Love Lessons Written in Your Birth Number7 home interior design styles influencing modern residential spacesKangana Ranaut continues her love affair with Indian handlooms in a stunning Patan Patola saree10 foods that help reduce bloating naturally in summer6 Fascinating plants that do not produce flowers but still thrive in natureInland Taipan changes colour with the seasons: Inside the strange and dramatic seasonal color change explainedIs your child carrying emotional baggage? 6 subtle signs and what parents can do to help10 beautiful baby girl names starting with the letter T“This will help prevent…and improve..” Why did Amit Shah praise this rice variety123Hot Picks147000 Medical BillGulf of Oman attackFifa World Cup Opening CeremonyShakiraIndia Vs Afghanistan HighlightsISC Revaluation ResultSpaceX IPODelhi weatherIndustrial fuel banTop TrendingTMC rebel MPIndian RupeeSpaceX IPOFIFA World Cup 2026Nipah virusCJP Lucknow ProtestBharatiya Antariksh HackathonKerala SSLC Revaluation ResultBengaluru Child DeathKarnataka Murder

Vamsikrishna 0
PM Modi celebrates ’12 years of Nari Shakti’, highlights NDA’s push for women-led development NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday celebrated “12 Years of Nari Shakti”, emphasising the steps and initiatives taken towards strengthening women’s empowerment by the government under his leadership.In an ‘X’ post, PM Modi stated that it reflected the prominent role being played by women across education, healthcare, sanitation, housing, sports, science and governance. He further stressed that the efforts being made to ensure women’s empowerment are deeply rooted and have helped create an environment where women can realise their full potential and contribute even more strongly to nation-building.”Over the last 12 years, the NDA Government has worked to further women-led development. And, this is visible across sectors. From financial inclusion and entrepreneurship to education, healthcare, sanitation, housing, sports, science and governance, women are playing a prominent role across diverse sectors. The efforts of the NDA Government are rooted in dignity, opportunity and empowerment. They have helped create an environment where women can realise their full potential and contribute even more strongly to nation-building,” said PM Modi.The Prime Minister also praised the growing participation and interest of women towards developing drone technology, which has opened new avenues of opportunity and transformed the development landscape across the nation.”I am particularly happy to see India’s Nari Shakti make a mark in sectors like science, space and innovation. Their growing participation in emerging fields such as drone technology is opening new avenues of opportunity and transforming development landscape across the nation. Our Government is actively supporting Self Help Groups, which are going a long way in making women financially independent,” he added.The remarks come after leaders of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) gathered in New Delhi to congratulate PM Modi on completing 4,399 days in office, making him India’s longest-serving democratically elected Prime Minister in consecutive terms. NDA leaders hailed his tenure, citing development initiatives, governance reforms and welfare programmes implemented over the past 12 years.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAbhishek Banerjee Faces Six-Hour CID Interrogation In Bengal Signature Forgery CaseStone Shatters Window Of Shatabdi Express Near Firozabad; RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Was On BoardJaishankar Says US Asked India To Buy Russian Oil In 2022, Slams Double Standards Over Energy PolicyThree Killed As Massive Fire Breaks Out In Multi-Storey Residential Building In Delhi’s TughlakabadJaishankar Calls Out Europe’s ‘Double Standards’, Says European Weapons Have Been Used Against IndiaFalta Strongman Paraded In Shorts By Cops After Arrest In Falta | WatchAll 28 Chief Ministers Attend NITI Aayog Meeting, Marking End of Recent Boycott TrendKirti Azad Dismisses Exit Talks, Says Didi Will Fix Kalyan Banerjee Dispute | WatchCongress Sweeps Three Of Four Karnataka Rs Seats As Poll Ends Without ContestBJP Wins All Three MP Rajya Sabha Seats Unopposed After Congress Nominee Rejected123PhotostoriesLove Lessons Written in Your Birth Number7 home interior design styles influencing modern residential spacesKangana Ranaut continues her love affair with Indian handlooms in a stunning Patan Patola saree10 foods that help reduce bloating naturally in summer6 Fascinating plants that do not produce flowers but still thrive in natureInland Taipan changes colour with the seasons: Inside the strange and dramatic seasonal color change explainedIs your child carrying emotional baggage? 6 subtle signs and what parents can do to help10 beautiful baby girl names starting with the letter T“This will help prevent…and improve..” Why did Amit Shah praise this rice varietyShoaib Malik to Glenn Maxwell: 7 international cricketers who married Indian women123Hot Picks147000 Medical BillGulf of Oman attackFifa World Cup Opening CeremonyShakiraIndia Vs Afghanistan HighlightsVaibhav SooryavanshiSpaceX IPODelhi weatherIndustrial fuel banTop TrendingHaryana Gym Owner MurderBurari Nigerian Woman SuicideVijay ThalapathyFIFA World Cup 2026Census 2027CJP Lucknow ProtestCJP ProtestCBSE Class 10 Second Board ResultBengaluru Child DeathKarnataka Murder

PM Modi celebrates ’12 years of Nari Shakti’, highlights NDA’s push for women-led development NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday celebrated “12 Years of Nari Shakti”, emphasising the steps and initiatives taken towards strengthening women’s empowerment by the government under his leadership.In an ‘X’ post, PM Modi stated that it reflected the prominent role being played by women across education, healthcare, sanitation, housing, sports, science and governance. He further stressed that the efforts being made to ensure women’s empowerment are deeply rooted and have helped create an environment where women can realise their full potential and contribute even more strongly to nation-building.”Over the last 12 years, the NDA Government has worked to further women-led development. And, this is visible across sectors. From financial inclusion and entrepreneurship to education, healthcare, sanitation, housing, sports, science and governance, women are playing a prominent role across diverse sectors. The efforts of the NDA Government are rooted in dignity, opportunity and empowerment. They have helped create an environment where women can realise their full potential and contribute even more strongly to nation-building,” said PM Modi.The Prime Minister also praised the growing participation and interest of women towards developing drone technology, which has opened new avenues of opportunity and transformed the development landscape across the nation.”I am particularly happy to see India’s Nari Shakti make a mark in sectors like science, space and innovation. Their growing participation in emerging fields such as drone technology is opening new avenues of opportunity and transforming development landscape across the nation. Our Government is actively supporting Self Help Groups, which are going a long way in making women financially independent,” he added.The remarks come after leaders of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) gathered in New Delhi to congratulate PM Modi on completing 4,399 days in office, making him India’s longest-serving democratically elected Prime Minister in consecutive terms. NDA leaders hailed his tenure, citing development initiatives, governance reforms and welfare programmes implemented over the past 12 years.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAbhishek Banerjee Faces Six-Hour CID Interrogation In Bengal Signature Forgery CaseStone Shatters Window Of Shatabdi Express Near Firozabad; RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Was On BoardJaishankar Says US Asked India To Buy Russian Oil In 2022, Slams Double Standards Over Energy PolicyThree Killed As Massive Fire Breaks Out In Multi-Storey Residential Building In Delhi’s TughlakabadJaishankar Calls Out Europe’s ‘Double Standards’, Says European Weapons Have Been Used Against IndiaFalta Strongman Paraded In Shorts By Cops After Arrest In Falta | WatchAll 28 Chief Ministers Attend NITI Aayog Meeting, Marking End of Recent Boycott TrendKirti Azad Dismisses Exit Talks, Says Didi Will Fix Kalyan Banerjee Dispute | WatchCongress Sweeps Three Of Four Karnataka Rs Seats As Poll Ends Without ContestBJP Wins All Three MP Rajya Sabha Seats Unopposed After Congress Nominee Rejected123PhotostoriesLove Lessons Written in Your Birth Number7 home interior design styles influencing modern residential spacesKangana Ranaut continues her love affair with Indian handlooms in a stunning Patan Patola saree10 foods that help reduce bloating naturally in summer6 Fascinating plants that do not produce flowers but still thrive in natureInland Taipan changes colour with the seasons: Inside the strange and dramatic seasonal color change explainedIs your child carrying emotional baggage? 6 subtle signs and what parents can do to help10 beautiful baby girl names starting with the letter T“This will help prevent…and improve..” Why did Amit Shah praise this rice varietyShoaib Malik to Glenn Maxwell: 7 international cricketers who married Indian women123Hot Picks147000 Medical BillGulf of Oman attackFifa World Cup Opening CeremonyShakiraIndia Vs Afghanistan HighlightsVaibhav SooryavanshiSpaceX IPODelhi weatherIndustrial fuel banTop TrendingHaryana Gym Owner MurderBurari Nigerian Woman SuicideVijay ThalapathyFIFA World Cup 2026Census 2027CJP Lucknow ProtestCJP ProtestCBSE Class 10 Second Board ResultBengaluru Child DeathKarnataka Murder

Vamsikrishna 0
NEW DELHI: External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Thursday pushed back against European criticism of India’s Russia policy, saying weapons sold by European countries had been used against India for years even as they questioned New Delhi’s purchase of Russian oil. Defending India’s energy choices, he also revealed that the United States had encouraged India to buy Russian crude in 2022 to help stabilise global oil markets after sanctions were imposed on Moscow.Speaking at the Kultaranta Talks in Finland during a discussion on “Emerging Powers and the New Geopolitical Competition”, Jaishankar responded to a question suggesting India had been “too sympathetic to Russia” and overly dependent on Russian oil since the outbreak of the Ukraine conflict.”No European country has been attacked with Indian weapons. I wish I could say that for Europe weapons vis-a-vis India,” Jaishankar said.When asked to elaborate, the minister pointed to India’s longstanding security concerns over European arms exports.”Europe sells weapons, which are used to attack India. Not just now but for many years. We Indians have never done anything to endanger Europe. I think that’s a reasonable point,” Jaishankar emphasised.Defending India’s energy choices, Jaishankar said New Delhi’s purchases were driven by economic considerations rather than geopolitics and noted that changing market dynamics after the Ukraine war left Russian crude among the most accessible options.The minister also disclosed that Washington had itself asked India to continue buying Russian oil to prevent disruptions in global energy markets.”At that time, the US directly asked India to buy Russian oil to stabilise the oil market. We buy oil based on cost and availability,” Jaishankar said.Explaining India’s position further, he added: “I’ll make two observations. I buy oil based on cost and availability. So at that point of time, much of the oil available in the market was Russian because Europeans were essentially buying oil from the Middle East, which was our traditional supplier. So circumstances pushed us in a certain direction.”Jaishankar also questioned what he described as inconsistencies in Western approaches towards sanctions, trade and energy security, arguing against applying selective standards to complex geopolitical issues.His remarks come amid continuing scrutiny from some Western nations over India’s relationship with Russia. New Delhi has consistently maintained that its foreign policy and energy decisions are guided by national interest, energy security and economic considerations.(With inputs from ANI)Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosThree Killed As Massive Fire Breaks Out In Multi-Storey Residential Building In Delhi’s TughlakabadJaishankar Calls Out Europe’s ‘Double Standards’, Says European Weapons Have Been Used Against IndiaFalta Strongman Paraded In Shorts By Cops After Arrest In Falta | WatchAll 28 Chief Ministers Attend NITI Aayog Meeting, Marking End of Recent Boycott TrendKirti Azad Dismisses Exit Talks, Says Didi Will Fix Kalyan Banerjee Dispute | WatchCongress Sweeps Three Of Four Karnataka Rs Seats As Poll Ends Without ContestBJP Wins All Three MP Rajya Sabha Seats Unopposed After Congress Nominee RejectedRam Mandir Funds Issue Takes New Turn With Call For Investigation; Calls For Accountability Emerge’Abhishek Banerjee Destroyed TMC’: Suspended Leader Riju Dutta Launches Fresh AttackIndia-Bangladesh Border Standoff Leaves 55-year-old Stranded In No-Man’s Land123Photostories6 Fascinating plants that do not produce flowers but still thrive in natureInland Taipan changes colour with the seasons: Inside the strange and dramatic seasonal color change explainedIs your child carrying emotional baggage? 6 subtle signs and what parents can do to help10 beautiful baby girl names starting with the letter T“This will help prevent…and improve..” Why did Amit Shah praise this rice varietyShoaib Malik to Glenn Maxwell: 7 international cricketers who married Indian women27-year-old woman shares 5 reasons she doesn’t want to get married earlyNo crowds, no chaos: This remote Himalayan valley in Uttarkhand feels frozen in time5 venomous snakes you’ll only find in Africa and where to spot them5 things fathers should never do and how these mistakes affect a child’s personality123Hot Picks147000 Medical BillGulf of Oman attackFifa World Cup Opening CeremonyShakiraIndia Vs Afghanistan HighlightsVaibhav SooryavanshiLewis HamiltonCJP ProtestHow to Watch FIFA world cup highlightsTop TrendingHaryana Gym Owner MurderGuru Randhawa Gym FiringGold Rate TodayFIFA World Cup 2026Delhi Hotel FireSingappen Special ForceCJP ProtestCBSE Class 10 Second Board ResultBengaluru Child DeathKarnataka Murder

NEW DELHI: External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Thursday pushed back against European criticism of India’s Russia policy, saying weapons sold by European countries had been used against India for years even as they questioned New Delhi’s purchase of Russian oil. Defending India’s energy choices, he also revealed that the United States had encouraged India to buy Russian crude in 2022 to help stabilise global oil markets after sanctions were imposed on Moscow.Speaking at the Kultaranta Talks in Finland during a discussion on “Emerging Powers and the New Geopolitical Competition”, Jaishankar responded to a question suggesting India had been “too sympathetic to Russia” and overly dependent on Russian oil since the outbreak of the Ukraine conflict.”No European country has been attacked with Indian weapons. I wish I could say that for Europe weapons vis-a-vis India,” Jaishankar said.When asked to elaborate, the minister pointed to India’s longstanding security concerns over European arms exports.”Europe sells weapons, which are used to attack India. Not just now but for many years. We Indians have never done anything to endanger Europe. I think that’s a reasonable point,” Jaishankar emphasised.Defending India’s energy choices, Jaishankar said New Delhi’s purchases were driven by economic considerations rather than geopolitics and noted that changing market dynamics after the Ukraine war left Russian crude among the most accessible options.The minister also disclosed that Washington had itself asked India to continue buying Russian oil to prevent disruptions in global energy markets.”At that time, the US directly asked India to buy Russian oil to stabilise the oil market. We buy oil based on cost and availability,” Jaishankar said.Explaining India’s position further, he added: “I’ll make two observations. I buy oil based on cost and availability. So at that point of time, much of the oil available in the market was Russian because Europeans were essentially buying oil from the Middle East, which was our traditional supplier. So circumstances pushed us in a certain direction.”Jaishankar also questioned what he described as inconsistencies in Western approaches towards sanctions, trade and energy security, arguing against applying selective standards to complex geopolitical issues.His remarks come amid continuing scrutiny from some Western nations over India’s relationship with Russia. New Delhi has consistently maintained that its foreign policy and energy decisions are guided by national interest, energy security and economic considerations.(With inputs from ANI)Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.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 MediaVideosThree Killed As Massive Fire Breaks Out In Multi-Storey Residential Building In Delhi’s TughlakabadJaishankar Calls Out Europe’s ‘Double Standards’, Says European Weapons Have Been Used Against IndiaFalta Strongman Paraded In Shorts By Cops After Arrest In Falta | WatchAll 28 Chief Ministers Attend NITI Aayog Meeting, Marking End of Recent Boycott TrendKirti Azad Dismisses Exit Talks, Says Didi Will Fix Kalyan Banerjee Dispute | WatchCongress Sweeps Three Of Four Karnataka Rs Seats As Poll Ends Without ContestBJP Wins All Three MP Rajya Sabha Seats Unopposed After Congress Nominee RejectedRam Mandir Funds Issue Takes New Turn With Call For Investigation; Calls For Accountability Emerge’Abhishek Banerjee Destroyed TMC’: Suspended Leader Riju Dutta Launches Fresh AttackIndia-Bangladesh Border Standoff Leaves 55-year-old Stranded In No-Man’s Land123Photostories6 Fascinating plants that do not produce flowers but still thrive in natureInland Taipan changes colour with the seasons: Inside the strange and dramatic seasonal color change explainedIs your child carrying emotional baggage? 6 subtle signs and what parents can do to help10 beautiful baby girl names starting with the letter T“This will help prevent…and improve..” Why did Amit Shah praise this rice varietyShoaib Malik to Glenn Maxwell: 7 international cricketers who married Indian women27-year-old woman shares 5 reasons she doesn’t want to get married earlyNo crowds, no chaos: This remote Himalayan valley in Uttarkhand feels frozen in time5 venomous snakes you’ll only find in Africa and where to spot them5 things fathers should never do and how these mistakes affect a child’s personality123Hot Picks147000 Medical BillGulf of Oman attackFifa World Cup Opening CeremonyShakiraIndia Vs Afghanistan HighlightsVaibhav SooryavanshiLewis HamiltonCJP ProtestHow to Watch FIFA world cup highlightsTop TrendingHaryana Gym Owner MurderGuru Randhawa Gym FiringGold Rate TodayFIFA World Cup 2026Delhi Hotel FireSingappen Special ForceCJP ProtestCBSE Class 10 Second Board ResultBengaluru Child DeathKarnataka Murder

Vamsikrishna 0