August 5, 2026

The NCPCR has initiated a formal investigation following alarming claims from a BBC report which suggested that advertisements on Meta’s platforms like Instagram were linked to the promotion of child abuse material. In response, the child rights organization has demanded clarity from Meta Platforms Inc. Furthermore, the NHRC has instructed the Delhi Police to look into these troubling assertions, as both entities scrutinize Meta’s adherence to child protection regulations. NEW DELHI: The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has decided to institute an inquiry into allegations that advertisements related to Child Sexual Exploitative and Abuse Material (CSEAM) appeared on Meta-owned platforms, government sources said on Tuesday.The move comes after the child rights body took suo motu cognisance of a BBC Eye report last month alleging that advertisements on Instagram promoted child sexual abuse material.NCPCR had issued a notice to Meta Platforms Inc. on July 3 seeking an explanation, to which the company responded a week later.Initiates formal inquiryFollowing an examination of Meta’s reply, the Commission has now decided to initiate a formal inquiry “to determine the facts of the matter”, sources said.Separately, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) had directed the Delhi Police to conduct a comprehensive probe into the allegations and examine whether Meta and other entities complied with mandatory reporting obligations under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe NHRC took cognisance of the BBC World Service report, which alleged that paid advertisements on Instagram used specific keywords and redirected users to channels where child sexual abuse material was allegedly being offered for sale.In a letter dated July 8, the Commission asked the Delhi Police Commissioner to submit a detailed Action Taken Report (ATR). It later sent a reminder on July 29, seeking submission of the pending report.Earlier today, IT Secretary S Krishnan said that the Centre will raise a range of concerns with Meta’s global team during its meeting in India on August 5 and 6, including the platform’s handling of Child Sexual Exploitative and Abuse Material (CSEAM), the temporary restriction of prominent verified accounts, and the spread of AI-generated content.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 MediaVideosNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can HappenUdhayanidhi Stalin Detained Over Trisha Row |FIR, Political Storm & “I’ll Face It Legally” Explained123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins
The NCPCR has initiated a formal investigation following alarming claims from a BBC report which suggested that advertisements on Meta’s platforms like Instagram were linked to the promotion of child abuse material. In response, the child rights organization has demanded clarity from Meta Platforms Inc. Furthermore, the NHRC has instructed the Delhi Police to look into these troubling assertions, as both entities scrutinize Meta’s adherence to child protection regulations. NEW DELHI: The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has decided to institute an inquiry into allegations that advertisements related to Child Sexual Exploitative and Abuse Material (CSEAM) appeared on Meta-owned platforms, government sources said on Tuesday.The move comes after the child rights body took suo motu cognisance of a BBC Eye report last month alleging that advertisements on Instagram promoted child sexual abuse material.NCPCR had issued a notice to Meta Platforms Inc. on July 3 seeking an explanation, to which the company responded a week later.Initiates formal inquiryFollowing an examination of Meta’s reply, the Commission has now decided to initiate a formal inquiry “to determine the facts of the matter”, sources said.Separately, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) had directed the Delhi Police to conduct a comprehensive probe into the allegations and examine whether Meta and other entities complied with mandatory reporting obligations under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe NHRC took cognisance of the BBC World Service report, which alleged that paid advertisements on Instagram used specific keywords and redirected users to channels where child sexual abuse material was allegedly being offered for sale.In a letter dated July 8, the Commission asked the Delhi Police Commissioner to submit a detailed Action Taken Report (ATR). It later sent a reminder on July 29, seeking submission of the pending report.Earlier today, IT Secretary S Krishnan said that the Centre will raise a range of concerns with Meta’s global team during its meeting in India on August 5 and 6, including the platform’s handling of Child Sexual Exploitative and Abuse Material (CSEAM), the temporary restriction of prominent verified accounts, and the spread of AI-generated content.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 MediaVideosNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can HappenUdhayanidhi Stalin Detained Over Trisha Row |FIR, Political Storm & “I’ll Face It Legally” Explained123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh


Child protection panel launches inquiry into Meta over alleged child sexual abuse material ads
The NCPCR has initiated a formal investigation following alarming claims from a BBC report which suggested that advertisements on Meta’s platforms like Instagram were linked to the promotion of child abuse material. In response, the child rights organization has demanded clarity from Meta Platforms Inc. Furthermore, the NHRC has instructed the Delhi Police to look into these troubling assertions, as both entities scrutinize Meta’s adherence to child protection regulations.

NEW DELHI: The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has decided to institute an inquiry into allegations that advertisements related to Child Sexual Exploitative and Abuse Material (CSEAM) appeared on Meta-owned platforms, government sources said on Tuesday.The move comes after the child rights body took suo motu cognisance of a BBC Eye report last month alleging that advertisements on Instagram promoted child sexual abuse material.NCPCR had issued a notice to Meta Platforms Inc. on July 3 seeking an explanation, to which the company responded a week later.Initiates formal inquiryFollowing an examination of Meta’s reply, the Commission has now decided to initiate a formal inquiry “to determine the facts of the matter”, sources said.Separately, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) had directed the Delhi Police to conduct a comprehensive probe into the allegations and examine whether Meta and other entities complied with mandatory reporting obligations under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

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NEW DELHI: The Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) Liberation, whose student wing All India Students Association (AISA) was at the forefront in the Cockroach Janta Party led protests at Jantar Mantar, has demanded that the voting age should be lowered to 16 from 18 years to empower the younger lot among Gen Z.This comes in the backdrop of the students protests that succeeded in getting Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan to resign. For the Left parties like CPI(ML)L, the victory of their student outfits in raising the issues affecting Gen Z, has emboldened them and provided an opportunity to connect with the students to take up their concerns related to education, employment and accountability.Attacking the govt over its use of force against protesters, CPI(ML) L general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya said, “In the protests at Jantar Mantar the world saw an awakening where Gen Z came out to talk about the things that affect them and sought accountability. I feel they are ready and therefore I feel voting age must be lowered,” Bhattacharya said.The voting age in India was brought down from 21 to 18 years through ‘The Constitution (Sixty-first Amendment) Act, 1988. While in most countries the age of voting is 18, in some countries like Argentina, Austria, Brazil, Cuba, Ecuador, Nicaragua, East Timor, Greece, and Indonesia 16 or 17 year olds can vote.Bhattacharya in a statement released by the party on Tuesday said that if the RSS really wants to listen to India’s Gen Z, they should lower the voting age to 16. In today’s digital era of information revolution, 16-year-olds are informed enough to make their political choices,” he said.“RSS is reportedly quite desperate to reach out to Gen Z. Mohan Bhagwat is all set to address 2,000 students aged 15 to 19 brought from 100 cities on August 6 at Mumbai’s Nita Mukesh Ambani Centre! The numbers are impressive, but what will be the outreach about?,” Bhattacharya asked.“Modi (PM Narendra Modi) has already talked about ‘culture shock’, invoking patriarchal prejudices against India’s ‘misled daughters’. The orchestrated backlash, both online and offline, is forcing 15-year-olds to offer apology videos,” he alleged.With this attack on the ruling dispensation, CPI(ML)L has set the pitch for its outreach to Gen Z. “In the protests at Jantar Mantar the world saw an awakening where Gen Z came out to talk about the things that affect them and sought accountability. I feel they are ready and therefore I feel voting age must be lowered,” Bhattacharya said.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesHe said that since he raised the demand on Tuesday, he has received positive responses from the youth. Bhattacharya plans to not only discuss this with AISA members but also take it up with Left parties – CPI(M) and CPI(ML) and also INDIA bloc members.Meanwhile, all set to keep up the momentum generated by the protests, the Left parties CPM, CPI(ML)L and CPI are working on stepping up coordination for the outreach among various sections at the grassroots including students. “The Left needs to coordinate with more focus as a group on issues and align with movements led by students, workers, women and farmers across states. To enable this we are working on a plan and a series of meetings have been held to discuss how we can improve coordination,” Bhattacharya said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh

NEW DELHI: The Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) Liberation, whose student wing All India Students Association (AISA) was at the forefront in the Cockroach Janta Party led protests at Jantar Mantar, has demanded that the voting age should be lowered to 16 from 18 years to empower the younger lot among Gen Z.This comes in the backdrop of the students protests that succeeded in getting Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan to resign. For the Left parties like CPI(ML)L, the victory of their student outfits in raising the issues affecting Gen Z, has emboldened them and provided an opportunity to connect with the students to take up their concerns related to education, employment and accountability.Attacking the govt over its use of force against protesters, CPI(ML) L general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya said, “In the protests at Jantar Mantar the world saw an awakening where Gen Z came out to talk about the things that affect them and sought accountability. I feel they are ready and therefore I feel voting age must be lowered,” Bhattacharya said.The voting age in India was brought down from 21 to 18 years through ‘The Constitution (Sixty-first Amendment) Act, 1988. While in most countries the age of voting is 18, in some countries like Argentina, Austria, Brazil, Cuba, Ecuador, Nicaragua, East Timor, Greece, and Indonesia 16 or 17 year olds can vote.Bhattacharya in a statement released by the party on Tuesday said that if the RSS really wants to listen to India’s Gen Z, they should lower the voting age to 16. In today’s digital era of information revolution, 16-year-olds are informed enough to make their political choices,” he said.“RSS is reportedly quite desperate to reach out to Gen Z. Mohan Bhagwat is all set to address 2,000 students aged 15 to 19 brought from 100 cities on August 6 at Mumbai’s Nita Mukesh Ambani Centre! The numbers are impressive, but what will be the outreach about?,” Bhattacharya asked.“Modi (PM Narendra Modi) has already talked about ‘culture shock’, invoking patriarchal prejudices against India’s ‘misled daughters’. The orchestrated backlash, both online and offline, is forcing 15-year-olds to offer apology videos,” he alleged.With this attack on the ruling dispensation, CPI(ML)L has set the pitch for its outreach to Gen Z. “In the protests at Jantar Mantar the world saw an awakening where Gen Z came out to talk about the things that affect them and sought accountability. I feel they are ready and therefore I feel voting age must be lowered,” Bhattacharya said.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesHe said that since he raised the demand on Tuesday, he has received positive responses from the youth. Bhattacharya plans to not only discuss this with AISA members but also take it up with Left parties – CPI(M) and CPI(ML) and also INDIA bloc members.Meanwhile, all set to keep up the momentum generated by the protests, the Left parties CPM, CPI(ML)L and CPI are working on stepping up coordination for the outreach among various sections at the grassroots including students. “The Left needs to coordinate with more focus as a group on issues and align with movements led by students, workers, women and farmers across states. To enable this we are working on a plan and a series of meetings have been held to discuss how we can improve coordination,” Bhattacharya said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh

Vamsikrishna 0
Govt’s rooftop solar initiative has crossed the 50-lakh household milestone within 29 months NEW DELHI: Govt’s rooftop solar initiative, PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, has crossed the 50-lakh household milestone within 29 months of its launch in Feb 2024, achieving half of its target of one crore households by March 2027.According to new and renewable energy ministry, more than five lakh households installed rooftop solar plants in July, the highest monthly addition since the scheme began. Officials said nearly one lakh new households are being added under the scheme every six days, making it one of the fastest-growing clean energy programmes in the world.“The pace of installation has increased 3.2 times over the last nine months, rising from 5,038 installations a day in Oct 2025 to nearly 16,328 a day in July 2026,” the ministry said in a statement.When the scheme was launched in 2024, the country had fewer than eight lakh rooftop solar installations.Of the scheme’s Rs 75,021-crore outlay, govt has already disbursed Rs 28,024 crore directly to beneficiaries through direct benefit transfer. So far, nearly 19 lakh households have recorded zero electricity bills in at least one billing cycle, significantly reducing their power expenses.The ministry said more than 12 lakh households earned a combined Rs 421 crore by selling surplus electricity to the grid in FY 2024-25, translating into an additional income of around Rs 3,500 a year per household.Cumulatively, 14.8 GW of rooftop solar capacity has been commissioned under the scheme so far.The ministry said 1.6 lakh installations have been completed for Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana beneficiaries, Below Poverty Line families, and SC/ST households across four states under the utility-led aggregation model. The model enables low-income households to install rooftop solar systems while helping states reduce their power subsidy burden.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesGovt has also solarised 25,255 govt buildings with a combined rooftop solar capacity of 872 MW, against 41,542 buildings where installations totalling 1,418 MW are considered feasible. Overall, states have identified around 3.2 lakh govt buildings with an estimated rooftop solar potential of 4,400 MW. Of these, 81,329 buildings with a combined capacity of 1,450 MW have already been solarised, the ministry said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorAtul MathurAtul Mathur is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India with over 27 years of experience in journalism. Based in Delhi, he has spent much of his career reporting on governance, public policy and politics, churning out researched, data-driven stories that impact daily lives. Atul is known for investigative depth and strong human-interest narratives as he strives to bring clarity and context to complex issues. He currently tracks the energy sector, writing on power, renewable energy, coal and mines.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh

Govt’s rooftop solar initiative has crossed the 50-lakh household milestone within 29 months NEW DELHI: Govt’s rooftop solar initiative, PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, has crossed the 50-lakh household milestone within 29 months of its launch in Feb 2024, achieving half of its target of one crore households by March 2027.According to new and renewable energy ministry, more than five lakh households installed rooftop solar plants in July, the highest monthly addition since the scheme began. Officials said nearly one lakh new households are being added under the scheme every six days, making it one of the fastest-growing clean energy programmes in the world.“The pace of installation has increased 3.2 times over the last nine months, rising from 5,038 installations a day in Oct 2025 to nearly 16,328 a day in July 2026,” the ministry said in a statement.When the scheme was launched in 2024, the country had fewer than eight lakh rooftop solar installations.Of the scheme’s Rs 75,021-crore outlay, govt has already disbursed Rs 28,024 crore directly to beneficiaries through direct benefit transfer. So far, nearly 19 lakh households have recorded zero electricity bills in at least one billing cycle, significantly reducing their power expenses.The ministry said more than 12 lakh households earned a combined Rs 421 crore by selling surplus electricity to the grid in FY 2024-25, translating into an additional income of around Rs 3,500 a year per household.Cumulatively, 14.8 GW of rooftop solar capacity has been commissioned under the scheme so far.The ministry said 1.6 lakh installations have been completed for Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana beneficiaries, Below Poverty Line families, and SC/ST households across four states under the utility-led aggregation model. The model enables low-income households to install rooftop solar systems while helping states reduce their power subsidy burden.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesGovt has also solarised 25,255 govt buildings with a combined rooftop solar capacity of 872 MW, against 41,542 buildings where installations totalling 1,418 MW are considered feasible. Overall, states have identified around 3.2 lakh govt buildings with an estimated rooftop solar potential of 4,400 MW. Of these, 81,329 buildings with a combined capacity of 1,450 MW have already been solarised, the ministry said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorAtul MathurAtul Mathur is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India with over 27 years of experience in journalism. Based in Delhi, he has spent much of his career reporting on governance, public policy and politics, churning out researched, data-driven stories that impact daily lives. Atul is known for investigative depth and strong human-interest narratives as he strives to bring clarity and context to complex issues. He currently tracks the energy sector, writing on power, renewable energy, coal and mines.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh

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A projectile attack sank the Indian-flagged vessel off Yemen, but all 14 crew members, including 13 Indians, were safely rescued. (Representational image) NEW DELHI: An Indian-flagged cargo vessel was struck by a projectile and sank off Yemen’s western coast on Tuesday. All 14 crew members aboard the vessel were rescued and brought to safety.Union minister for ports, shipping and waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, said the MSV Faize Noore Oliya was hit by a projectile in Yemeni waters, causing it to capsize and sink. The crew comprised 13 Indian nationals and one Yemeni sailor.The Yemeni Coast Guard rescued all 14 crew members and brought them safely to the port of Mokha, Sonowal added. No casualties were reported.Ministry of External Affairs said the vessel sank in the Red Sea off the Yemeni coast on August 4 and confirmed that all 13 Indian nationals had been rescued. The Indian Embassy in Riyadh was coordinating with Yemeni authorities to ensure the safety of the crew and provide necessary assistance.The government-affiliated National Resistance Forces said coast guard and naval units carried out a joint rescue operation after the vessel was attacked about 13 nautical miles (24 km) south of the Houthi-held port city of Hodeidah.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe National Resistance Forces blamed Yemen’s Houthi rebels for the attack. The Houthis have not commented on the incident.Sonowal condemned what he called an “unprovoked attack” and said the safety of Indian seafarers remained the government’s “supreme priority”. He said the Director General of Maritime Administration had been instructed to coordinate with relevant agencies to ensure the security of Indian sailors in the region.The MEA also expressed concern over continued attacks on commercial shipping in the region, saying such targeting “must end”. It called for free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through international waterways in the region, in accordance with international law, to be restored at the earliest.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 MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh

A projectile attack sank the Indian-flagged vessel off Yemen, but all 14 crew members, including 13 Indians, were safely rescued. (Representational image) NEW DELHI: An Indian-flagged cargo vessel was struck by a projectile and sank off Yemen’s western coast on Tuesday. All 14 crew members aboard the vessel were rescued and brought to safety.Union minister for ports, shipping and waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, said the MSV Faize Noore Oliya was hit by a projectile in Yemeni waters, causing it to capsize and sink. The crew comprised 13 Indian nationals and one Yemeni sailor.The Yemeni Coast Guard rescued all 14 crew members and brought them safely to the port of Mokha, Sonowal added. No casualties were reported.Ministry of External Affairs said the vessel sank in the Red Sea off the Yemeni coast on August 4 and confirmed that all 13 Indian nationals had been rescued. The Indian Embassy in Riyadh was coordinating with Yemeni authorities to ensure the safety of the crew and provide necessary assistance.The government-affiliated National Resistance Forces said coast guard and naval units carried out a joint rescue operation after the vessel was attacked about 13 nautical miles (24 km) south of the Houthi-held port city of Hodeidah.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe National Resistance Forces blamed Yemen’s Houthi rebels for the attack. The Houthis have not commented on the incident.Sonowal condemned what he called an “unprovoked attack” and said the safety of Indian seafarers remained the government’s “supreme priority”. He said the Director General of Maritime Administration had been instructed to coordinate with relevant agencies to ensure the security of Indian sailors in the region.The MEA also expressed concern over continued attacks on commercial shipping in the region, saying such targeting “must end”. It called for free and unimpeded navigation and commerce through international waterways in the region, in accordance with international law, to be restored at the earliest.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 MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh

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Madras HC directed Tamil Nadu Police to release DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin after questioning him over his alleged “double meaning” remark made during a Cauvery protest in Thanjavur.Several passengers and crew members were injured after Air India’s Phuket-Delhi flight encountered turbulence, causing a sudden 300-foot drop in altitude. The aircraft landed safely.France recorded its first-ever “fire cloud” or pyrocumulonimbus during a massive wildfire near Bordeaux in July 2026.Delhi Police on Tuesday stopped AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal and other party leaders from marching to PM Modi’s residence to submit over 2.3 lakh petitions against E20 petrol.A suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed operative arrested by West Bengal STF had allegedly surveyed the area around CM Suvendu Adhikari’s official residence in Kolkata.Here are the top 5 news headlines of the day:Madras HC orders Udhayanidhi Stalin’s release after arrest over ‘double meaning’ remarkMadras high court on Tuesday directed the Tamil Nadu Police to release DMK leader and former deputy chief minister Udhayanidhi Stalin after questioning him over his alleged “double meaning” remark during a protest in Thanjavur over the Cauvery water-sharing dispute. The direction came after the state government informed the court that he would be released on station bail after the inquiry. Read full story Watch Udhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSudden drop in altitude: Flyers injured as Air India’s Phuket-Delhi flight encounters turbulenceSeveral passengers and crew members onboard Air India’s Phuket-Delhi flight (AI 2379) were injured after the aircraft encountered turbulence during cruise on Tuesday morning, causing a sudden 300-foot drop in altitude. The Airbus A320 landed safely in Delhi, where medical teams attended to passengers, with 14 people later shifted to hospitals for further treatment. Read full storyWhen wildfires make their own weather: As France sees its first fire cloud, should India be worried?A massive wildfire in southwest France in July 2026 produced the country’s first recorded pyrocumulonimbus—a towering “fire cloud” that generated its own thunderstorm and lightning, helping spread the blaze. The rare phenomenon, previously seen mainly in Australia and North America, is being linked to worsening heat, drought and climate change.India has not witnessed a pyrocumulonimbus so far, but scientists warn that rising temperatures, erratic monsoons and longer dry seasons are making its forests increasingly vulnerable to large wildfires. Read full storyAAP protest E20 petrol policy: Kejriwal, Sisodia stage sit-in after march to PM Modi’s residence stoppedDelhi Police on Tuesday prevented AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal and other party leaders from marching to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence to submit more than 2.3 lakh petitions opposing the Centre’s E20 petrol policy. After being stopped near Firoz Shah Road, Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and other leaders staged a sit-in protest.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesAAP has alleged that ethanol-blended fuel is harming vehicle owners and has demanded that consumers be allowed to choose between pure petrol and E20.Read full storyArrested Jaish suspect surveyed area near CM Suvendu Adhikari’s residence: OfficialA suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) operative arrested by the West Bengal STF last week allegedly carried out reconnaissance around chief minister Suvendu Adhikari’s official residence in Kolkata, with investigators claiming the survey was part of a larger conspiracy directed by Pakistan-based handlers. Police said technical evidence, including mobile tower data, confirmed his presence in the area.The STF is also examining whether the accused surveyed Nabanna, the state secretariat, and explored renting accommodation near Adhikari’s residence for prolonged surveillance. Read full storyGet the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can HappenUdhayanidhi Stalin Detained Over Trisha Row |FIR, Political Storm & “I’ll Face It Legally” ExplainedPulwama Man Held With Hand Grenade, Anti-National Posters After Kulgam Terror AttackHigh-Level Probe Ordered As Security Forces Launch Massive Valley-Wide Manhunt | WatchSC Clarifies ‘Criminal Antecedents’ Caveat;CJP Demands Immediate Withdrawal Of FIRs Against StudentsAssam Govt Launches Relief Package As Over 1.36 Lakh People Remain Flood Affected | WatchIndian Parl Panel Grills Meta Over PM Modi Video Takedown, Seeks Mark Zuckerberg’s ApologyBankipur Shock, Datia Loss: BJP Suffers Twin Setback, But Why Isn’t It Good News For Opposition?123PhotostoriesTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips5 hair oils that may be making your dandruff worse5 signs your partner is falling out of love with you: What to watch for before it’s too lateFrom Collarwali to Charger: 5 legendary tigers of IndiaNot lemon, baking soda or detergent: This one ingredient can remove foul smell permanently from water bottles and lunch boxesThe 7 germiest things in your hotel room that most guests touch without thinking123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh

Madras HC directed Tamil Nadu Police to release DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin after questioning him over his alleged “double meaning” remark made during a Cauvery protest in Thanjavur.Several passengers and crew members were injured after Air India’s Phuket-Delhi flight encountered turbulence, causing a sudden 300-foot drop in altitude. The aircraft landed safely.France recorded its first-ever “fire cloud” or pyrocumulonimbus during a massive wildfire near Bordeaux in July 2026.Delhi Police on Tuesday stopped AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal and other party leaders from marching to PM Modi’s residence to submit over 2.3 lakh petitions against E20 petrol.A suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed operative arrested by West Bengal STF had allegedly surveyed the area around CM Suvendu Adhikari’s official residence in Kolkata.Here are the top 5 news headlines of the day:Madras HC orders Udhayanidhi Stalin’s release after arrest over ‘double meaning’ remarkMadras high court on Tuesday directed the Tamil Nadu Police to release DMK leader and former deputy chief minister Udhayanidhi Stalin after questioning him over his alleged “double meaning” remark during a protest in Thanjavur over the Cauvery water-sharing dispute. The direction came after the state government informed the court that he would be released on station bail after the inquiry. Read full story Watch Udhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSudden drop in altitude: Flyers injured as Air India’s Phuket-Delhi flight encounters turbulenceSeveral passengers and crew members onboard Air India’s Phuket-Delhi flight (AI 2379) were injured after the aircraft encountered turbulence during cruise on Tuesday morning, causing a sudden 300-foot drop in altitude. The Airbus A320 landed safely in Delhi, where medical teams attended to passengers, with 14 people later shifted to hospitals for further treatment. Read full storyWhen wildfires make their own weather: As France sees its first fire cloud, should India be worried?A massive wildfire in southwest France in July 2026 produced the country’s first recorded pyrocumulonimbus—a towering “fire cloud” that generated its own thunderstorm and lightning, helping spread the blaze. The rare phenomenon, previously seen mainly in Australia and North America, is being linked to worsening heat, drought and climate change.India has not witnessed a pyrocumulonimbus so far, but scientists warn that rising temperatures, erratic monsoons and longer dry seasons are making its forests increasingly vulnerable to large wildfires. Read full storyAAP protest E20 petrol policy: Kejriwal, Sisodia stage sit-in after march to PM Modi’s residence stoppedDelhi Police on Tuesday prevented AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal and other party leaders from marching to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s residence to submit more than 2.3 lakh petitions opposing the Centre’s E20 petrol policy. After being stopped near Firoz Shah Road, Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and other leaders staged a sit-in protest.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesAAP has alleged that ethanol-blended fuel is harming vehicle owners and has demanded that consumers be allowed to choose between pure petrol and E20.Read full storyArrested Jaish suspect surveyed area near CM Suvendu Adhikari’s residence: OfficialA suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) operative arrested by the West Bengal STF last week allegedly carried out reconnaissance around chief minister Suvendu Adhikari’s official residence in Kolkata, with investigators claiming the survey was part of a larger conspiracy directed by Pakistan-based handlers. Police said technical evidence, including mobile tower data, confirmed his presence in the area.The STF is also examining whether the accused surveyed Nabanna, the state secretariat, and explored renting accommodation near Adhikari’s residence for prolonged surveillance. Read full storyGet the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can HappenUdhayanidhi Stalin Detained Over Trisha Row |FIR, Political Storm & “I’ll Face It Legally” ExplainedPulwama Man Held With Hand Grenade, Anti-National Posters After Kulgam Terror AttackHigh-Level Probe Ordered As Security Forces Launch Massive Valley-Wide Manhunt | WatchSC Clarifies ‘Criminal Antecedents’ Caveat;CJP Demands Immediate Withdrawal Of FIRs Against StudentsAssam Govt Launches Relief Package As Over 1.36 Lakh People Remain Flood Affected | WatchIndian Parl Panel Grills Meta Over PM Modi Video Takedown, Seeks Mark Zuckerberg’s ApologyBankipur Shock, Datia Loss: BJP Suffers Twin Setback, But Why Isn’t It Good News For Opposition?123PhotostoriesTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips5 hair oils that may be making your dandruff worse5 signs your partner is falling out of love with you: What to watch for before it’s too lateFrom Collarwali to Charger: 5 legendary tigers of IndiaNot lemon, baking soda or detergent: This one ingredient can remove foul smell permanently from water bottles and lunch boxesThe 7 germiest things in your hotel room that most guests touch without thinking123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh

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