March 28, 2026

India

AMMK general secretary TTV Dhinakaran NEW DELHI: Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) general secretary TTV Dhinakaran on Saturday released the party’s manifesto for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, outlining 120 key promises.”Among the key assurances, the party has promised that 85% of jobs in both State and Central government establishments within Tamil Nadu will be provided to Tamil people,” Dhinakaran said. The AMMK also emphasised promoting the Tamil language. Dhinakaran stated, “Tamil will be made the official language of the Tamil Nadu government and introduced for use in the High Court.”Addressing the concerns of farmers, he announced, “All farmers’ loans will be completely waived.” Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubWar to end in ‘weeks, not months’: Rubio says no need to send ground troops to IranInterview With Iran Envoy: Nuclear weapons are forbidden; India urged to mediateOn inter-state water disputes, he added, “The party has assured that the long-pending Cauvery-Mekedatu dam issue will be resolved through appropriate measures.”The manifesto includes measures for rural employment as well. “The party has promised to increase the current 100 days of work under employment schemes to 150 days, along with a hike in wages for workers,” Dhinakaran said.Other key promises include granting full operational freedom to the Tamil Nadu Police, introducing a new excise policy, and restoring benefits for government employees. Dhinakaran stated, “For government employees, the party has assured the reintroduction of the Old Pension Scheme.” The manifesto also mentions efforts to secure the Bharat Ratna award for former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa and Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar.”The party has received 99 per cent of the constituencies it had requested in the seat-sharing arrangement with the AIADMK-led NDA alliance,” he said, while criticising the ruling party. “Tamil Nadu is currently under family rule and such dark governance had never been witnessed in the state before in history.”Earlier, the NDA in Tamil Nadu, led by All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), announced its seat-sharing arrangement for the elections. AIADMK will contest 169 out of 234 seats, while the remaining 65 have been allocated to its allies.Dhinakaran said, “From April 6th I will start my campaign across TN.”Tamil Nadu will go to the polls in a single phase on April 23, with counting scheduled for May 4. The main contest is expected between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA), which includes Congress, DMDK, and VCK, and the NDA, led by AIADMK with BJP and Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) as allies. Actor-turned-politician Vijay will make his electoral debut with TVK, adding a three-way dimension to the elections.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 MediaVideosIndia Mocks Pakistan’s Mediator Claims, Cites Khwaja Asif’s Remark And 1971 Atrocities RecordIran’s Big Message From India: No Nuclear Plans, Delhi Can Help End The War And West Asia CrisisIndian Army Reshapes Armoured Warfare With Drone-Integrated Shaurya Squadrons | WatchPM Modi-Trump Call Turns High-Stakes As Elon Musk Joins Talks Amid Rising West Asia Crisis: ReportNirmala Sitharaman Blasts Lockdown Rumours, Compares Pakistan, Bangladesh Situation On Fuel Crisis’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?123PhotostoriesFrom the rare golden tiger to the black panther: National parks in India to spot rare big catsIt’s not mango, watermelon, or muskmelon! India is the largest producer of this super yummy summer fruitInside Shreyas Iyer’s Mumbai House: A blend of style, space, and personality5 things that should never be on your teen’s study table10 mythology-inspired home names and their meanings5 morning habits to naturally detoxify your bodyFrom John Cena to Dave Bautista: 5 athletes who became Hollywood starsHow to activate your Venus according to your birth dateRollback to the Hindi classical comedies of the 80’s: ‘Angoor’ ‘Khoobsurat’, and moreHow to store food without using plastic: Simple swaps for a sustainable kitchen123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealNoida International AirportUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashBabar AzamH-1B lotteryVaibhav SooryavanshiMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

AMMK general secretary TTV Dhinakaran NEW DELHI: Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) general secretary TTV Dhinakaran on Saturday released the party’s manifesto for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, outlining 120 key promises.”Among the key assurances, the party has promised that 85% of jobs in both State and Central government establishments within Tamil Nadu will be provided to Tamil people,” Dhinakaran said. The AMMK also emphasised promoting the Tamil language. Dhinakaran stated, “Tamil will be made the official language of the Tamil Nadu government and introduced for use in the High Court.”Addressing the concerns of farmers, he announced, “All farmers’ loans will be completely waived.” Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubWar to end in ‘weeks, not months’: Rubio says no need to send ground troops to IranInterview With Iran Envoy: Nuclear weapons are forbidden; India urged to mediateOn inter-state water disputes, he added, “The party has assured that the long-pending Cauvery-Mekedatu dam issue will be resolved through appropriate measures.”The manifesto includes measures for rural employment as well. “The party has promised to increase the current 100 days of work under employment schemes to 150 days, along with a hike in wages for workers,” Dhinakaran said.Other key promises include granting full operational freedom to the Tamil Nadu Police, introducing a new excise policy, and restoring benefits for government employees. Dhinakaran stated, “For government employees, the party has assured the reintroduction of the Old Pension Scheme.” The manifesto also mentions efforts to secure the Bharat Ratna award for former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa and Pasumpon Muthuramalinga Thevar.”The party has received 99 per cent of the constituencies it had requested in the seat-sharing arrangement with the AIADMK-led NDA alliance,” he said, while criticising the ruling party. “Tamil Nadu is currently under family rule and such dark governance had never been witnessed in the state before in history.”Earlier, the NDA in Tamil Nadu, led by All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), announced its seat-sharing arrangement for the elections. AIADMK will contest 169 out of 234 seats, while the remaining 65 have been allocated to its allies.Dhinakaran said, “From April 6th I will start my campaign across TN.”Tamil Nadu will go to the polls in a single phase on April 23, with counting scheduled for May 4. The main contest is expected between the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance (SPA), which includes Congress, DMDK, and VCK, and the NDA, led by AIADMK with BJP and Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) as allies. Actor-turned-politician Vijay will make his electoral debut with TVK, adding a three-way dimension to the elections.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 MediaVideosIndia Mocks Pakistan’s Mediator Claims, Cites Khwaja Asif’s Remark And 1971 Atrocities RecordIran’s Big Message From India: No Nuclear Plans, Delhi Can Help End The War And West Asia CrisisIndian Army Reshapes Armoured Warfare With Drone-Integrated Shaurya Squadrons | WatchPM Modi-Trump Call Turns High-Stakes As Elon Musk Joins Talks Amid Rising West Asia Crisis: ReportNirmala Sitharaman Blasts Lockdown Rumours, Compares Pakistan, Bangladesh Situation On Fuel Crisis’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?123PhotostoriesFrom the rare golden tiger to the black panther: National parks in India to spot rare big catsIt’s not mango, watermelon, or muskmelon! India is the largest producer of this super yummy summer fruitInside Shreyas Iyer’s Mumbai House: A blend of style, space, and personality5 things that should never be on your teen’s study table10 mythology-inspired home names and their meanings5 morning habits to naturally detoxify your bodyFrom John Cena to Dave Bautista: 5 athletes who became Hollywood starsHow to activate your Venus according to your birth dateRollback to the Hindi classical comedies of the 80’s: ‘Angoor’ ‘Khoobsurat’, and moreHow to store food without using plastic: Simple swaps for a sustainable kitchen123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealNoida International AirportUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashBabar AzamH-1B lotteryVaibhav SooryavanshiMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

AMMK general secretary TTV Dhinakaran NEW DELHI: Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AMMK) general secretary TTV Dhinakaran on Saturday released the party’s manifesto for the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, outlining 120 key promises.“Among the key assurances, the party has promised that 85% of jobs in both State and Central government establishments within Tamil Nadu will…

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‘Pakistan remains in denial’: India reaffirms support for Bangladesh’s justice push over 1971 atrocities | India News

‘Pakistan remains in denial’: India reaffirms support for Bangladesh’s justice push over 1971 atrocities | India News

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: India on Friday reaffirmed its support for Bangladesh’s pursuit of justice over the atrocities committed by Pakistan during the 1971 military crackdown, saying Islamabad continues to deny its crimes.The remarks came as Bangladesh marked March 25 as Genocide Day, remembering one of the darkest chapters in its history. On that day in 1971,…

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Cash, care and constant connect: How the ‘Didi model’ is shaping Bengal’s ballot The welfare architecture of Mamata Banerjee’s government in West Bengal has emerged as a defining feature of its governance, combining large-scale social support programmes with significant political implications as the state heads toward the 2026 Assembly elections.As the state prepares for the first phase of polling on April 23, the “Didi Model” of governance is not only acting as key social welfare schemes that have redefined rural economics, but has also served as the ultimate political insurance for Mamata Banerjee’s enduring grip on power.Lakshmi in every homeAt the centre of this model is the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme, launched in 2021 to provide monthly financial assistance to women aged roughly 25 to 60. Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubWar to end in ‘weeks, not months’: Rubio says no need to send ground troops to IranInterview With Iran Envoy: Nuclear weapons are forbidden; India urged to mediateRegardless of the marital or employment status, this scheme covers all women residents of Bengal.Currently, beneficiaries receive Rs 1,000 per month, while women from Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities receive Rs 1,200. Designed to cover household expenses and improve financial security, the scheme has gained widespread acceptance and is increasingly viewed not as a “freebie” but as an economic entitlement.The scheme has also become a major political talking point, with the ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) promising to raise the assistance by Rs 500 if re-elected.However, implementation challenges persist. In a recent case from East Midnapore, around 7,000 women reportedly did not receive payments for nearly five months, prompting the Calcutta High Court to seek a report. Despite such issues, the scheme continues to expand, with approximately 1.25 lakh new beneficiaries added to an existing base of 2.2 crore women.No one sleeps hungryFood security remains another cornerstone of the state’s welfare strategy through the Khadya Sathi programme, launched in 2016. The scheme provides rice and wheat at subsidised rates of around Rs 2 per kilogram and currently covers nearly 9 crore people.Eligible beneficiaries are categorised based on their ration card. This constitutes the “poorest of the poor”, including landless labourers, marginal farmers, rural artisans, and households headed by widows or terminally ill persons. Families living below the poverty line (BPL) or in the economically weaker section (EWS) are also the beneficiaries of this scheme.With expenditure exceeding Rs 1 lakh crore, it is among the largest such initiatives in the country.It is complemented by the Duare Ration initiative, which delivers food grains directly to households, reaching about 7 crore people at a cost of over Rs 1,700 crore.The state government claims that these combined efforts have helped lift around 1.7 crore people above the poverty line by 2023, reinforcing its narrative of inclusive growth driven by welfare spending.Cash for classroom over ‘Chhadnatola’In education and gender empowerment, the Kanyashree Prakalpa remains a flagship programme. Launched in 2013, it provides Rs 1,000 annually to girls aged 13 to 18 who remain in school and unmarried, along with a one-time grant of Rs 25,000 at age 18 for those continuing education or training.With over 7 crore cumulative enrolments, the programme is one of the largest conditional cash transfer schemes for girls globally and was recognised with the UN Public Service Award. However, challenges remain in ensuring awareness, documentation, and sustained participation beyond eligibility.Healthcare without billsHealthcare coverage has been expanded through the Swasthya Sathi scheme, introduced in 2016. It offers cashless treatment up to Rs 5 lakh per family per year and covers nearly 9 crore people across 2.5 crore families.Notably, smart cards are issued in the name of the female head of the household. The scheme has recorded over 1 crore hospitalisations, with government spending exceeding Rs 13,000 crore. While it boasts one of the highest coverage rates in India, estimated at around 74.5 per cent, concerns persist regarding hospital participation, claim settlements, and out-of-pocket expenses in private healthcare facilities.The unemployment cushionMost recently, the government has turned its attention to unemployment with the launch of Banglar Yuva Sathi, announced in the 2026 Interim Budget. The scheme provides Rs 1,500 per month to educated unemployed youth aged 21 to 40 for up to five years or until they secure employment.Targeting Madhyamik-qualified individuals not covered under other programmes, it was fast-tracked with initial payments released on March 7, 2026. Backed by an allocation of around Rs 5,000 crore, with projections going up to Rs 15,000 crore, it is positioned as a key intervention to address unemployment ahead of the elections.Together, these schemes form the backbone of the TMC’s welfare-driven governance model, blending direct benefit transfers, food security, healthcare, and social empowerment. While the scale and reach of these programmes have drawn both national and international attention, their long-term sustainability and implementation efficiency remain under scrutiny as political stakes rise in West Bengal.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 MediaVideosIndia’s Clears ₹2.38 Lakh Crore Defence Proposals Across Services In Major Procurement PushIndia Mocks Pakistan’s Mediator Claims, Cites Khwaja Asif’s Remark And 1971 Atrocities RecordIran’s Big Message From India: No Nuclear Plans, Delhi Can Help End The War And West Asia CrisisIndian Army Reshapes Armoured Warfare With Drone-Integrated Shaurya Squadrons | WatchPM Modi-Trump Call Turns High-Stakes As Elon Musk Joins Talks Amid Rising West Asia Crisis: ReportNirmala Sitharaman Blasts Lockdown Rumours, Compares Pakistan, Bangladesh Situation On Fuel Crisis’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call123PhotostoriesThese birth dates are known as powerful healers’The Vampire Diaries’, ‘Dawson’s Creek’, ‘Gilmore Girls’: Best romantic TV shows to binge-watch that defined modern lovePune metro phase II: PCMC–Nigdi 4.41-km corridor work gains paceFrom the rare golden tiger to the black panther: National parks in India to spot rare big catsIt’s not mango, watermelon, or muskmelon! India is the largest producer of this super yummy summer fruitInside Shreyas Iyer’s Mumbai House: A blend of style, space, and personality5 things that should never be on your teen’s study table10 mythology-inspired home names and their meanings5 morning habits to naturally detoxify your bodyFrom John Cena to Dave Bautista: 5 athletes who became Hollywood stars123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealNoida International AirportUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashBabar AzamH-1B lotteryVaibhav SooryavanshiMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Cash, care and constant connect: How the ‘Didi model’ is shaping Bengal’s ballot The welfare architecture of Mamata Banerjee’s government in West Bengal has emerged as a defining feature of its governance, combining large-scale social support programmes with significant political implications as the state heads toward the 2026 Assembly elections.As the state prepares for the first phase of polling on April 23, the “Didi Model” of governance is not only acting as key social welfare schemes that have redefined rural economics, but has also served as the ultimate political insurance for Mamata Banerjee’s enduring grip on power.Lakshmi in every homeAt the centre of this model is the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme, launched in 2021 to provide monthly financial assistance to women aged roughly 25 to 60. Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubWar to end in ‘weeks, not months’: Rubio says no need to send ground troops to IranInterview With Iran Envoy: Nuclear weapons are forbidden; India urged to mediateRegardless of the marital or employment status, this scheme covers all women residents of Bengal.Currently, beneficiaries receive Rs 1,000 per month, while women from Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities receive Rs 1,200. Designed to cover household expenses and improve financial security, the scheme has gained widespread acceptance and is increasingly viewed not as a “freebie” but as an economic entitlement.The scheme has also become a major political talking point, with the ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) promising to raise the assistance by Rs 500 if re-elected.However, implementation challenges persist. In a recent case from East Midnapore, around 7,000 women reportedly did not receive payments for nearly five months, prompting the Calcutta High Court to seek a report. Despite such issues, the scheme continues to expand, with approximately 1.25 lakh new beneficiaries added to an existing base of 2.2 crore women.No one sleeps hungryFood security remains another cornerstone of the state’s welfare strategy through the Khadya Sathi programme, launched in 2016. The scheme provides rice and wheat at subsidised rates of around Rs 2 per kilogram and currently covers nearly 9 crore people.Eligible beneficiaries are categorised based on their ration card. This constitutes the “poorest of the poor”, including landless labourers, marginal farmers, rural artisans, and households headed by widows or terminally ill persons. Families living below the poverty line (BPL) or in the economically weaker section (EWS) are also the beneficiaries of this scheme.With expenditure exceeding Rs 1 lakh crore, it is among the largest such initiatives in the country.It is complemented by the Duare Ration initiative, which delivers food grains directly to households, reaching about 7 crore people at a cost of over Rs 1,700 crore.The state government claims that these combined efforts have helped lift around 1.7 crore people above the poverty line by 2023, reinforcing its narrative of inclusive growth driven by welfare spending.Cash for classroom over ‘Chhadnatola’In education and gender empowerment, the Kanyashree Prakalpa remains a flagship programme. Launched in 2013, it provides Rs 1,000 annually to girls aged 13 to 18 who remain in school and unmarried, along with a one-time grant of Rs 25,000 at age 18 for those continuing education or training.With over 7 crore cumulative enrolments, the programme is one of the largest conditional cash transfer schemes for girls globally and was recognised with the UN Public Service Award. However, challenges remain in ensuring awareness, documentation, and sustained participation beyond eligibility.Healthcare without billsHealthcare coverage has been expanded through the Swasthya Sathi scheme, introduced in 2016. It offers cashless treatment up to Rs 5 lakh per family per year and covers nearly 9 crore people across 2.5 crore families.Notably, smart cards are issued in the name of the female head of the household. The scheme has recorded over 1 crore hospitalisations, with government spending exceeding Rs 13,000 crore. While it boasts one of the highest coverage rates in India, estimated at around 74.5 per cent, concerns persist regarding hospital participation, claim settlements, and out-of-pocket expenses in private healthcare facilities.The unemployment cushionMost recently, the government has turned its attention to unemployment with the launch of Banglar Yuva Sathi, announced in the 2026 Interim Budget. The scheme provides Rs 1,500 per month to educated unemployed youth aged 21 to 40 for up to five years or until they secure employment.Targeting Madhyamik-qualified individuals not covered under other programmes, it was fast-tracked with initial payments released on March 7, 2026. Backed by an allocation of around Rs 5,000 crore, with projections going up to Rs 15,000 crore, it is positioned as a key intervention to address unemployment ahead of the elections.Together, these schemes form the backbone of the TMC’s welfare-driven governance model, blending direct benefit transfers, food security, healthcare, and social empowerment. While the scale and reach of these programmes have drawn both national and international attention, their long-term sustainability and implementation efficiency remain under scrutiny as political stakes rise in West Bengal.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 MediaVideosIndia’s Clears ₹2.38 Lakh Crore Defence Proposals Across Services In Major Procurement PushIndia Mocks Pakistan’s Mediator Claims, Cites Khwaja Asif’s Remark And 1971 Atrocities RecordIran’s Big Message From India: No Nuclear Plans, Delhi Can Help End The War And West Asia CrisisIndian Army Reshapes Armoured Warfare With Drone-Integrated Shaurya Squadrons | WatchPM Modi-Trump Call Turns High-Stakes As Elon Musk Joins Talks Amid Rising West Asia Crisis: ReportNirmala Sitharaman Blasts Lockdown Rumours, Compares Pakistan, Bangladesh Situation On Fuel Crisis’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call123PhotostoriesThese birth dates are known as powerful healers’The Vampire Diaries’, ‘Dawson’s Creek’, ‘Gilmore Girls’: Best romantic TV shows to binge-watch that defined modern lovePune metro phase II: PCMC–Nigdi 4.41-km corridor work gains paceFrom the rare golden tiger to the black panther: National parks in India to spot rare big catsIt’s not mango, watermelon, or muskmelon! India is the largest producer of this super yummy summer fruitInside Shreyas Iyer’s Mumbai House: A blend of style, space, and personality5 things that should never be on your teen’s study table10 mythology-inspired home names and their meanings5 morning habits to naturally detoxify your bodyFrom John Cena to Dave Bautista: 5 athletes who became Hollywood stars123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealNoida International AirportUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashBabar AzamH-1B lotteryVaibhav SooryavanshiMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Cash, care and constant connect: How the ‘Didi model’ is shaping Bengal’s ballot The welfare architecture of Mamata Banerjee’s government in West Bengal has emerged as a defining feature of its governance, combining large-scale social support programmes with significant political implications as the state heads toward the 2026 Assembly elections.As the state prepares for the…

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Representational image NEW DELHI: As Puducherry gears up for the upcoming assembly elections, several key constituencies in the Union territory (UT) are set to witness high-profile battles, featuring the outgoing chief minister, a former chief minister, UT party chiefs, and a political heir.The Puducherry legislative assembly has 33 members, and elections are held for 30 seats. The remaining three MLAs are nominated by the Centre. Previous elections Voting will be held in a single phase on April 9. The counting is scheduled for May 4, along with the counting in Assam, Keralam, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, which will vote around the same period. Watch Annamalai Skips Contest, Flags ‘Extreme Displeasure’ Over NDA Seat-Sharing in Tamil Nadu Key battles in PuducherryThattanchavady: The spotlight is on outgoing chief minister N Rangasamy, the incumbent MLA from the seat. The AINRC founder-president will face V Vaithilingam, former chief minister and current Lok Sabha MP, making this the most high-profile contest of the elections.Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubWar to end in ‘weeks, not months’: Rubio says no need to send ground troops to IranInterview With Iran Envoy: Nuclear weapons are forbidden; India urged to mediate Thattanchavady clash Raj Bhavan: NDA candidate VP Ramalingam, the Puducherry BJP president, will take on Vignesh Kannan of the DMK, son of former Puducherry minister P Kannan. The DMK is contesting in alliance with the Congress. Key battles Lawspet: AINRC leader VP Sivakolundhu will be challenged by V Saminathan, former Puducherry BJP chief representing actor-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). Sivakolundhu had previously held the assembly speaker’s post as a Congress member.Mahe and Yanam: Of the 30 assembly constituencies, Mahe and Yanam are geographically unique. Mahe is entirely surrounded by Keralam, while Yanam is encircled by Andhra Pradesh. In Mahe, A Dineshan of the BJP faces Ramesh Parambath of the Congress. Yanam will see Malladi Krishna Rao of AINRC contesting against Gollapalli Srinivas Ashok of the Congress.AlliancesThe ruling National Democratic Alliance in Puducherry comprises the AINRC, BJP, AIADMK, and the newly formed Latchiya Jananayaga Katchi, led by businessman Jose Charles Martin. While CM Rangasamy’s party will contest 16 seats, the BJP will fight 14 constituencies. From its share, the saffron party has allotted two seats each to the AIADMK and Latchiya Jananayaga Katchi (LJK). Puducherry dynasty candidates Meanwhile, the Congress will field candidates in 16 constituencies, with the remaining seats allocated to the DMK.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 MediaVideosIndia Mocks Pakistan’s Mediator Claims, Cites Khwaja Asif’s Remark And 1971 Atrocities RecordIran’s Big Message From India: No Nuclear Plans, Delhi Can Help End The War And West Asia CrisisIndian Army Reshapes Armoured Warfare With Drone-Integrated Shaurya Squadrons | WatchPM Modi-Trump Call Turns High-Stakes As Elon Musk Joins Talks Amid Rising West Asia Crisis: ReportNirmala Sitharaman Blasts Lockdown Rumours, Compares Pakistan, Bangladesh Situation On Fuel Crisis’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?123PhotostoriesFrom the rare golden tiger to the black panther: National parks in India to spot rare big catsIt’s not mango, watermelon, or muskmelon! India is the largest producer of this super yummy summer fruitInside Shreyas Iyer’s Mumbai House: A blend of style, space, and personality5 things that should never be on your teen’s study table10 mythology-inspired home names and their meanings5 morning habits to naturally detoxify your bodyFrom John Cena to Dave Bautista: 5 athletes who became Hollywood starsHow to activate your Venus according to your birth dateRollback to the Hindi classical comedies of the 80’s: ‘Angoor’ ‘Khoobsurat’, and moreHow to store food without using plastic: Simple swaps for a sustainable kitchen123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealNoida International AirportUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashBabar AzamH-1B lotteryVaibhav SooryavanshiMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Representational image NEW DELHI: As Puducherry gears up for the upcoming assembly elections, several key constituencies in the Union territory (UT) are set to witness high-profile battles, featuring the outgoing chief minister, a former chief minister, UT party chiefs, and a political heir.The Puducherry legislative assembly has 33 members, and elections are held for 30 seats. The remaining three MLAs are nominated by the Centre. Previous elections Voting will be held in a single phase on April 9. The counting is scheduled for May 4, along with the counting in Assam, Keralam, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, which will vote around the same period. Watch Annamalai Skips Contest, Flags ‘Extreme Displeasure’ Over NDA Seat-Sharing in Tamil Nadu Key battles in PuducherryThattanchavady: The spotlight is on outgoing chief minister N Rangasamy, the incumbent MLA from the seat. The AINRC founder-president will face V Vaithilingam, former chief minister and current Lok Sabha MP, making this the most high-profile contest of the elections.Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubWar to end in ‘weeks, not months’: Rubio says no need to send ground troops to IranInterview With Iran Envoy: Nuclear weapons are forbidden; India urged to mediate Thattanchavady clash Raj Bhavan: NDA candidate VP Ramalingam, the Puducherry BJP president, will take on Vignesh Kannan of the DMK, son of former Puducherry minister P Kannan. The DMK is contesting in alliance with the Congress. Key battles Lawspet: AINRC leader VP Sivakolundhu will be challenged by V Saminathan, former Puducherry BJP chief representing actor-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). Sivakolundhu had previously held the assembly speaker’s post as a Congress member.Mahe and Yanam: Of the 30 assembly constituencies, Mahe and Yanam are geographically unique. Mahe is entirely surrounded by Keralam, while Yanam is encircled by Andhra Pradesh. In Mahe, A Dineshan of the BJP faces Ramesh Parambath of the Congress. Yanam will see Malladi Krishna Rao of AINRC contesting against Gollapalli Srinivas Ashok of the Congress.AlliancesThe ruling National Democratic Alliance in Puducherry comprises the AINRC, BJP, AIADMK, and the newly formed Latchiya Jananayaga Katchi, led by businessman Jose Charles Martin. While CM Rangasamy’s party will contest 16 seats, the BJP will fight 14 constituencies. From its share, the saffron party has allotted two seats each to the AIADMK and Latchiya Jananayaga Katchi (LJK). Puducherry dynasty candidates Meanwhile, the Congress will field candidates in 16 constituencies, with the remaining seats allocated to the DMK.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 MediaVideosIndia Mocks Pakistan’s Mediator Claims, Cites Khwaja Asif’s Remark And 1971 Atrocities RecordIran’s Big Message From India: No Nuclear Plans, Delhi Can Help End The War And West Asia CrisisIndian Army Reshapes Armoured Warfare With Drone-Integrated Shaurya Squadrons | WatchPM Modi-Trump Call Turns High-Stakes As Elon Musk Joins Talks Amid Rising West Asia Crisis: ReportNirmala Sitharaman Blasts Lockdown Rumours, Compares Pakistan, Bangladesh Situation On Fuel Crisis’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?123PhotostoriesFrom the rare golden tiger to the black panther: National parks in India to spot rare big catsIt’s not mango, watermelon, or muskmelon! India is the largest producer of this super yummy summer fruitInside Shreyas Iyer’s Mumbai House: A blend of style, space, and personality5 things that should never be on your teen’s study table10 mythology-inspired home names and their meanings5 morning habits to naturally detoxify your bodyFrom John Cena to Dave Bautista: 5 athletes who became Hollywood starsHow to activate your Venus according to your birth dateRollback to the Hindi classical comedies of the 80’s: ‘Angoor’ ‘Khoobsurat’, and moreHow to store food without using plastic: Simple swaps for a sustainable kitchen123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealNoida International AirportUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashBabar AzamH-1B lotteryVaibhav SooryavanshiMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: As Puducherry gears up for the upcoming assembly elections, several key constituencies in the Union territory (UT) are set to witness high-profile battles, featuring the outgoing chief minister, a former chief minister, UT party chiefs, and a political heir.The Puducherry legislative assembly has 33 members, and elections are held for 30 seats. The…

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CR Kesavan, left, and Rahul Gandhi NEW DELHI: BJP national spokesperson CR Kesavan on Saturday attacked the Congress in Tamil Nadu, alleging that the party was facing a “deep divide” after MP Jothimani publicly raised concerns over a lack of transparency in constituency selection ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.In a post on X, Kesavan said the developments reflected a larger pattern within the party and also targeted the DMK-Congress alliance in the state.”Rahul Gandhi’s Congress is a deeply divided house and is in total disarray in Tamil Nadu. Their Party MP from TN is now publicly attacking Congress leadership for having no transparency. There is a definite pattern to this. Rahul Gandhi’s point person in the Bihar elections was gheraoed by Congress workers for allegedly selling tickets. Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubWar to end in ‘weeks, not months’: Rubio says no need to send ground troops to IranInterview With Iran Envoy: Nuclear weapons are forbidden; India urged to mediateThis is why the Compromised Congress has lost credibility with people across the country. The opportunistic DMK -Congress alliance is in tatters, and the disaster model DMK Govt’s misrule, which has been one of the worst regimes in the history of Tamil Nadu, will be categorically rejected by the people in the coming elections,” the BJP leader wrote.Kesavan’s remarks came after Jothimani publicly questioned the Congress party’s constituency selection process, alleging that decisions were taken in a “highly secretive manner” and that the welfare of the party had been compromised.”There is absolutely no transparency in the Congress party’s constituency selection. Our view that constituency selection should be done only after transparency and extensive discussion has not been accepted by the responsible leaders. Everything happened in a highly secretive manner. The welfare of the Congress party has been entirely compromised. It is heartbreaking to see a few individuals, who haven’t even bothered to pluck a single feather from the decades-long hard work of genuine Congress party workers like us for the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee, now selling it off,” Jothimani wrote on X.She also warned that the party could face serious consequences in Tamil Nadu if the same approach is followed during candidate selection.”One cannot remain silent in the face of this terrible situation without raising questions. The party is not just the responsible leaders, the state president, and the legislative party leader. The sentiments and labour of lakhs of workers are what make the party. We can discuss this in detail once the list is released. If candidate selection is also going to happen with this same selling approach, no one can save the Congress party in Tamil Nadu.”The political developments come as the DMK alliance continues preparations for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has announced that its ‘Rising Sun’ symbol will contest in nearly 175 constituencies in the state.So far, the DMK alliance has allotted seats to nine parties, including Congress (28), MDMK (4), IUML (2), MMK (2), KMDK (2), CPI (5), CPM (5), VCK (8), and DMDK (10). A total of 66 seats have been allocated to allies, with seven of them being contested under the DMK symbol.With remaining allocations expected, the DMK will directly contest 168 seats, while allied candidates in seven seats will also contest under the Rising Sun symbol, taking the total to 175 seats under the DMK symbol.Tamil Nadu will go to the polls in a single phase on April 23, with counting scheduled for May 4.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 MediaVideosIndia Mocks Pakistan’s Mediator Claims, Cites Khwaja Asif’s Remark And 1971 Atrocities RecordIran’s Big Message From India: No Nuclear Plans, Delhi Can Help End The War And West Asia CrisisIndian Army Reshapes Armoured Warfare With Drone-Integrated Shaurya Squadrons | WatchPM Modi-Trump Call Turns High-Stakes As Elon Musk Joins Talks Amid Rising West Asia Crisis: ReportNirmala Sitharaman Blasts Lockdown Rumours, Compares Pakistan, Bangladesh Situation On Fuel Crisis’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?123PhotostoriesFrom the rare golden tiger to the black panther: National parks in India to spot rare big catsIt’s not mango, watermelon, or muskmelon! India is the largest producer of this super yummy summer fruitInside Shreyas Iyer’s Mumbai House: A blend of style, space, and personality5 things that should never be on your teen’s study table10 mythology-inspired home names and their meanings5 morning habits to naturally detoxify your bodyFrom John Cena to Dave Bautista: 5 athletes who became Hollywood starsHow to activate your Venus according to your birth dateRollback to the Hindi classical comedies of the 80’s: ‘Angoor’ ‘Khoobsurat’, and moreHow to store food without using plastic: Simple swaps for a sustainable kitchen123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealNoida International AirportUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashBabar AzamH-1B lotteryVaibhav SooryavanshiMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

CR Kesavan, left, and Rahul Gandhi NEW DELHI: BJP national spokesperson CR Kesavan on Saturday attacked the Congress in Tamil Nadu, alleging that the party was facing a “deep divide” after MP Jothimani publicly raised concerns over a lack of transparency in constituency selection ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.In a post on X, Kesavan said the developments reflected a larger pattern within the party and also targeted the DMK-Congress alliance in the state.”Rahul Gandhi’s Congress is a deeply divided house and is in total disarray in Tamil Nadu. Their Party MP from TN is now publicly attacking Congress leadership for having no transparency. There is a definite pattern to this. Rahul Gandhi’s point person in the Bihar elections was gheraoed by Congress workers for allegedly selling tickets. Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubWar to end in ‘weeks, not months’: Rubio says no need to send ground troops to IranInterview With Iran Envoy: Nuclear weapons are forbidden; India urged to mediateThis is why the Compromised Congress has lost credibility with people across the country. The opportunistic DMK -Congress alliance is in tatters, and the disaster model DMK Govt’s misrule, which has been one of the worst regimes in the history of Tamil Nadu, will be categorically rejected by the people in the coming elections,” the BJP leader wrote.Kesavan’s remarks came after Jothimani publicly questioned the Congress party’s constituency selection process, alleging that decisions were taken in a “highly secretive manner” and that the welfare of the party had been compromised.”There is absolutely no transparency in the Congress party’s constituency selection. Our view that constituency selection should be done only after transparency and extensive discussion has not been accepted by the responsible leaders. Everything happened in a highly secretive manner. The welfare of the Congress party has been entirely compromised. It is heartbreaking to see a few individuals, who haven’t even bothered to pluck a single feather from the decades-long hard work of genuine Congress party workers like us for the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee, now selling it off,” Jothimani wrote on X.She also warned that the party could face serious consequences in Tamil Nadu if the same approach is followed during candidate selection.”One cannot remain silent in the face of this terrible situation without raising questions. The party is not just the responsible leaders, the state president, and the legislative party leader. The sentiments and labour of lakhs of workers are what make the party. We can discuss this in detail once the list is released. If candidate selection is also going to happen with this same selling approach, no one can save the Congress party in Tamil Nadu.”The political developments come as the DMK alliance continues preparations for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has announced that its ‘Rising Sun’ symbol will contest in nearly 175 constituencies in the state.So far, the DMK alliance has allotted seats to nine parties, including Congress (28), MDMK (4), IUML (2), MMK (2), KMDK (2), CPI (5), CPM (5), VCK (8), and DMDK (10). A total of 66 seats have been allocated to allies, with seven of them being contested under the DMK symbol.With remaining allocations expected, the DMK will directly contest 168 seats, while allied candidates in seven seats will also contest under the Rising Sun symbol, taking the total to 175 seats under the DMK symbol.Tamil Nadu will go to the polls in a single phase on April 23, with counting scheduled for May 4.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 MediaVideosIndia Mocks Pakistan’s Mediator Claims, Cites Khwaja Asif’s Remark And 1971 Atrocities RecordIran’s Big Message From India: No Nuclear Plans, Delhi Can Help End The War And West Asia CrisisIndian Army Reshapes Armoured Warfare With Drone-Integrated Shaurya Squadrons | WatchPM Modi-Trump Call Turns High-Stakes As Elon Musk Joins Talks Amid Rising West Asia Crisis: ReportNirmala Sitharaman Blasts Lockdown Rumours, Compares Pakistan, Bangladesh Situation On Fuel Crisis’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?123PhotostoriesFrom the rare golden tiger to the black panther: National parks in India to spot rare big catsIt’s not mango, watermelon, or muskmelon! India is the largest producer of this super yummy summer fruitInside Shreyas Iyer’s Mumbai House: A blend of style, space, and personality5 things that should never be on your teen’s study table10 mythology-inspired home names and their meanings5 morning habits to naturally detoxify your bodyFrom John Cena to Dave Bautista: 5 athletes who became Hollywood starsHow to activate your Venus according to your birth dateRollback to the Hindi classical comedies of the 80’s: ‘Angoor’ ‘Khoobsurat’, and moreHow to store food without using plastic: Simple swaps for a sustainable kitchen123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealNoida International AirportUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashBabar AzamH-1B lotteryVaibhav SooryavanshiMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

CR Kesavan, left, and Rahul Gandhi NEW DELHI: BJP national spokesperson CR Kesavan on Saturday attacked the Congress in Tamil Nadu, alleging that the party was facing a “deep divide” after MP Jothimani publicly raised concerns over a lack of transparency in constituency selection ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.In a post on X, Kesavan…

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Amit Shah releasing ‘chargesheet’ against TMC NEW DELHI: Union home minister Amit Shah on Saturday released the BJP’s “charge sheet” against the Trinamool Congress (TMC)-led West Bengal government ahead of assembly polls in the state.Speaking at a press conference in Kolkata, Shah emphasised that the upcoming elections would be a choice between “fear and trust.” He was joined by BJP state president and Rajya Sabha MP Samik Bhattacharya and Suvendu Adhikari, the leader of opposition in the West Bengal assembly.He criticised chief minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of fostering a “politics of lies, violence, and corruption over the past 15 years.””Bengal has to choose between fear and trust. For the last 15 years, politics of fear and corruption have been going on. Mamata Banerjee has created a new way of politics by using lies and violence to move her politics forward. Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubWar to end in ‘weeks, not months’: Rubio says no need to send ground troops to IranInterview With Iran Envoy: Nuclear weapons are forbidden; India urged to mediateThe basis of TMC coming to power is lies, fear, and violence. But since 2011, BJP has been fighting against this, and I believe that this time BJP will form the government,” Shah told reporters.He continued, “In today’s press conference, we have come with a chargesheet against the 15 years of rule by the TMC government. This chargesheet is filed against the Mamata Banerjee government on behalf of the people of Bengal, which the BJP is voicing. In a way, the people of Bengal have to decide in the coming elections whether to choose fear or to choose trust.”The senior BJP leader also lauded Suvendu Adhikari for his extensive tour of the state to address key issues.”Elections have been announced. All BJP workers, under the leadership of our state president, have stepped into Bengal with the resolve to form a BJP government. This election in Bengal is also very important for national security. The security of the entire eastern region is connected to Bengal. After the BJP government was formed in Assam, infiltration has almost ended. Now, only one route remains from where infiltrators enter the entire country, and that is Bengal,” he explained.Shah added, “Our opposition leader, Shri Suvendu Adhikari ji, has also toured the entire Bengal before the elections, taking the issues of disorder, anarchy, economic distress, and especially infiltration prevalent in Bengal to every individual.”He further criticised the TMC for failing to deliver on its promise of a “Sonar Bangla,” turning the state into a hub for criminal syndicates and stifling industrial growth, which he described as a “graveyard for industry.”The state will conduct elections in two phases, on April 23 and April 29, with counting of votes for both phases scheduled for May 4. In the first phase, elections will be held across 152 constituencies, while the remaining 142 seats will go to the polls in the second phase.(With ANI inputs)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 MediaVideosIndia Mocks Pakistan’s Mediator Claims, Cites Khwaja Asif’s Remark And 1971 Atrocities RecordIran’s Big Message From India: No Nuclear Plans, Delhi Can Help End The War And West Asia CrisisIndian Army Reshapes Armoured Warfare With Drone-Integrated Shaurya Squadrons | WatchPM Modi-Trump Call Turns High-Stakes As Elon Musk Joins Talks Amid Rising West Asia Crisis: ReportNirmala Sitharaman Blasts Lockdown Rumours, Compares Pakistan, Bangladesh Situation On Fuel Crisis’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?123PhotostoriesInside Shreyas Iyer’s Mumbai House: A blend of style, space, and personality5 things that should never be on your teen’s study table10 mythology-inspired home names and their meanings5 morning habits to naturally detoxify your bodyFrom John Cena to Dave Bautista: 5 athletes who became Hollywood starsHow to activate your Venus according to your birth dateRollback to the Hindi classical comedies of the 80’s: ‘Angoor’ ‘Khoobsurat’, and moreHow to store food without using plastic: Simple swaps for a sustainable kitchenDipika Kakar gets teary-eyed as she shares blood test reports amid cyst removal surgery; Shoaib says, ‘Lambi ladayi hai’New wings for Noida: How Jewar airport will expand in phases123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealNoida International AirportUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashBabar AzamH-1B lotteryVaibhav SooryavanshiMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Amit Shah releasing ‘chargesheet’ against TMC NEW DELHI: Union home minister Amit Shah on Saturday released the BJP’s “charge sheet” against the Trinamool Congress (TMC)-led West Bengal government ahead of assembly polls in the state.Speaking at a press conference in Kolkata, Shah emphasised that the upcoming elections would be a choice between “fear and trust.” He was joined by BJP state president and Rajya Sabha MP Samik Bhattacharya and Suvendu Adhikari, the leader of opposition in the West Bengal assembly.He criticised chief minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of fostering a “politics of lies, violence, and corruption over the past 15 years.””Bengal has to choose between fear and trust. For the last 15 years, politics of fear and corruption have been going on. Mamata Banerjee has created a new way of politics by using lies and violence to move her politics forward. Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubWar to end in ‘weeks, not months’: Rubio says no need to send ground troops to IranInterview With Iran Envoy: Nuclear weapons are forbidden; India urged to mediateThe basis of TMC coming to power is lies, fear, and violence. But since 2011, BJP has been fighting against this, and I believe that this time BJP will form the government,” Shah told reporters.He continued, “In today’s press conference, we have come with a chargesheet against the 15 years of rule by the TMC government. This chargesheet is filed against the Mamata Banerjee government on behalf of the people of Bengal, which the BJP is voicing. In a way, the people of Bengal have to decide in the coming elections whether to choose fear or to choose trust.”The senior BJP leader also lauded Suvendu Adhikari for his extensive tour of the state to address key issues.”Elections have been announced. All BJP workers, under the leadership of our state president, have stepped into Bengal with the resolve to form a BJP government. This election in Bengal is also very important for national security. The security of the entire eastern region is connected to Bengal. After the BJP government was formed in Assam, infiltration has almost ended. Now, only one route remains from where infiltrators enter the entire country, and that is Bengal,” he explained.Shah added, “Our opposition leader, Shri Suvendu Adhikari ji, has also toured the entire Bengal before the elections, taking the issues of disorder, anarchy, economic distress, and especially infiltration prevalent in Bengal to every individual.”He further criticised the TMC for failing to deliver on its promise of a “Sonar Bangla,” turning the state into a hub for criminal syndicates and stifling industrial growth, which he described as a “graveyard for industry.”The state will conduct elections in two phases, on April 23 and April 29, with counting of votes for both phases scheduled for May 4. In the first phase, elections will be held across 152 constituencies, while the remaining 142 seats will go to the polls in the second phase.(With ANI inputs)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 MediaVideosIndia Mocks Pakistan’s Mediator Claims, Cites Khwaja Asif’s Remark And 1971 Atrocities RecordIran’s Big Message From India: No Nuclear Plans, Delhi Can Help End The War And West Asia CrisisIndian Army Reshapes Armoured Warfare With Drone-Integrated Shaurya Squadrons | WatchPM Modi-Trump Call Turns High-Stakes As Elon Musk Joins Talks Amid Rising West Asia Crisis: ReportNirmala Sitharaman Blasts Lockdown Rumours, Compares Pakistan, Bangladesh Situation On Fuel Crisis’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?123PhotostoriesInside Shreyas Iyer’s Mumbai House: A blend of style, space, and personality5 things that should never be on your teen’s study table10 mythology-inspired home names and their meanings5 morning habits to naturally detoxify your bodyFrom John Cena to Dave Bautista: 5 athletes who became Hollywood starsHow to activate your Venus according to your birth dateRollback to the Hindi classical comedies of the 80’s: ‘Angoor’ ‘Khoobsurat’, and moreHow to store food without using plastic: Simple swaps for a sustainable kitchenDipika Kakar gets teary-eyed as she shares blood test reports amid cyst removal surgery; Shoaib says, ‘Lambi ladayi hai’New wings for Noida: How Jewar airport will expand in phases123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealNoida International AirportUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashBabar AzamH-1B lotteryVaibhav SooryavanshiMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Amit Shah releasing ‘chargesheet’ against TMC NEW DELHI: Union home minister Amit Shah on Saturday released the BJP’s “charge sheet” against the Trinamool Congress (TMC)-led West Bengal government ahead of assembly polls in the state.Speaking at a press conference in Kolkata, Shah emphasised that the upcoming elections would be a choice between “fear and trust.”…

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Dharmendra Pradhan NEW DELHI: Education minister Dharmendra Pradhan called the recent controversies over the UGC equity rules and an NCERT textbook carrying a chapter on judicial corruption “avoidable.”“I accept that they (controversies) were avoidable, especially the way they were presented. The discussion in society on the UGC matter is sub judice and under the Supreme Court’s cognisance, so I cannot comment publicly. But I would like to assure citizens that we do not endorse victimisation against anyone,” Pradhan said at the Times Now Summit on Friday. Watch ‘Heads Must Roll’: Centre Says Sorry Over NCERT Chapter, Supreme Court Demands Accountability He stressed that the government has a constitutional responsibility to ensure that no form of discrimination occurs.Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubWar to end in ‘weeks, not months’: Rubio says no need to send ground troops to IranInterview With Iran Envoy: Nuclear weapons are forbidden; India urged to mediate“This (UGC matter) is under the court’s cognisance; as the court frames it, the government will implement the system in line with the Constitution,” he added.The UGC guidelines, issued in January, triggered protests in some quarters, including within the ruling BJP, which claimed the norms were discriminatory. The Supreme Court later granted an interim stay, observing that they appeared prima facie “vague” and could be misused.Drafted with what the Centre described as the aim to curb discrimination against SC, ST, and OBC students, the UGC regilations mandated equal opportunity cells, 24/7 helplines, and strict complaint redressal timelines, but faced controversy for allegedly being vague and unfair to general category students, leading to calls for redrafting. Regarding the NCERT issue, the minister noted that the top court has given some guidance on the matter.“It has been said that a well-monitored chapter will be added under its supervision, and we are engaged in that work. A committee has also been formed—a three-member committee under the leadership of Justice Indu Malhotra. The court had also asked for the inclusion of Bhopal Law Academy. All this work is ongoing, and the chapter is being prepared. It will be placed before the court and added accordingly,” Pradhan stated.Earlier this month, the NCERT issued a public apology for including a chapter on judicial corruption in a textbook that had drawn criticism from the Supreme Court, and announced that the entire textbook would be withdrawn.The Class 8 social science textbook stated that corruption, a massive backlog of cases, and a shortage of judges are among the challenges faced by the judicial system.Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed unhappiness over the chapter on judicial corruption and asked for “accountability to be fixed.”(With PTI inputs)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 MediaVideosIran’s Big Message From India: No Nuclear Plans, Delhi Can Help End The War And West Asia CrisisIndian Army Reshapes Armoured Warfare With Drone-Integrated Shaurya Squadrons | WatchPM Modi-Trump Call Turns High-Stakes As Elon Musk Joins Talks Amid Rising West Asia Crisis: ReportNirmala Sitharaman Blasts Lockdown Rumours, Compares Pakistan, Bangladesh Situation On Fuel Crisis’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In Parliament123Photostories5 things that should never be on your teen’s study table10 mythology-inspired home names and their meanings5 morning habits to naturally detoxify your bodyFrom John Cena to Dave Bautista: 5 athletes who became Hollywood starsHow to activate your Venus according to your birth dateRollback to the Hindi classical comedies of the 80’s: ‘Angoor’ ‘Khoobsurat’, and moreHow to store food without using plastic: Simple swaps for a sustainable kitchenDipika Kakar gets teary-eyed as she shares blood test reports amid cyst removal surgery; Shoaib says, ‘Lambi ladayi hai’New wings for Noida: How Jewar airport will expand in phasesJames Tolkan’s must-watch films: ‘Back to the Future, ‘Top Gun’, and ‘The Wild River’123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealNoida International AirportUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashBabar AzamH-1B lotteryVaibhav SooryavanshiMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Dharmendra Pradhan NEW DELHI: Education minister Dharmendra Pradhan called the recent controversies over the UGC equity rules and an NCERT textbook carrying a chapter on judicial corruption “avoidable.”“I accept that they (controversies) were avoidable, especially the way they were presented. The discussion in society on the UGC matter is sub judice and under the Supreme Court’s cognisance, so I cannot comment publicly. But I would like to assure citizens that we do not endorse victimisation against anyone,” Pradhan said at the Times Now Summit on Friday. Watch ‘Heads Must Roll’: Centre Says Sorry Over NCERT Chapter, Supreme Court Demands Accountability He stressed that the government has a constitutional responsibility to ensure that no form of discrimination occurs.Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubWar to end in ‘weeks, not months’: Rubio says no need to send ground troops to IranInterview With Iran Envoy: Nuclear weapons are forbidden; India urged to mediate“This (UGC matter) is under the court’s cognisance; as the court frames it, the government will implement the system in line with the Constitution,” he added.The UGC guidelines, issued in January, triggered protests in some quarters, including within the ruling BJP, which claimed the norms were discriminatory. The Supreme Court later granted an interim stay, observing that they appeared prima facie “vague” and could be misused.Drafted with what the Centre described as the aim to curb discrimination against SC, ST, and OBC students, the UGC regilations mandated equal opportunity cells, 24/7 helplines, and strict complaint redressal timelines, but faced controversy for allegedly being vague and unfair to general category students, leading to calls for redrafting. Regarding the NCERT issue, the minister noted that the top court has given some guidance on the matter.“It has been said that a well-monitored chapter will be added under its supervision, and we are engaged in that work. A committee has also been formed—a three-member committee under the leadership of Justice Indu Malhotra. The court had also asked for the inclusion of Bhopal Law Academy. All this work is ongoing, and the chapter is being prepared. It will be placed before the court and added accordingly,” Pradhan stated.Earlier this month, the NCERT issued a public apology for including a chapter on judicial corruption in a textbook that had drawn criticism from the Supreme Court, and announced that the entire textbook would be withdrawn.The Class 8 social science textbook stated that corruption, a massive backlog of cases, and a shortage of judges are among the challenges faced by the judicial system.Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed unhappiness over the chapter on judicial corruption and asked for “accountability to be fixed.”(With PTI inputs)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 MediaVideosIran’s Big Message From India: No Nuclear Plans, Delhi Can Help End The War And West Asia CrisisIndian Army Reshapes Armoured Warfare With Drone-Integrated Shaurya Squadrons | WatchPM Modi-Trump Call Turns High-Stakes As Elon Musk Joins Talks Amid Rising West Asia Crisis: ReportNirmala Sitharaman Blasts Lockdown Rumours, Compares Pakistan, Bangladesh Situation On Fuel Crisis’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In Parliament123Photostories5 things that should never be on your teen’s study table10 mythology-inspired home names and their meanings5 morning habits to naturally detoxify your bodyFrom John Cena to Dave Bautista: 5 athletes who became Hollywood starsHow to activate your Venus according to your birth dateRollback to the Hindi classical comedies of the 80’s: ‘Angoor’ ‘Khoobsurat’, and moreHow to store food without using plastic: Simple swaps for a sustainable kitchenDipika Kakar gets teary-eyed as she shares blood test reports amid cyst removal surgery; Shoaib says, ‘Lambi ladayi hai’New wings for Noida: How Jewar airport will expand in phasesJames Tolkan’s must-watch films: ‘Back to the Future, ‘Top Gun’, and ‘The Wild River’123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealNoida International AirportUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashBabar AzamH-1B lotteryVaibhav SooryavanshiMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Education minister Dharmendra Pradhan called the recent controversies over the UGC equity rules and an NCERT textbook carrying a chapter on judicial corruption “avoidable.”“I accept that they (controversies) were avoidable, especially the way they were presented. The discussion in society on the UGC matter is sub judice and under the Supreme Court’s cognisance,…

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Photo credit: Agencies NEW DELHI: A parliamentary committee is set to recommend to government that it should explore introducing age-restrictions for social media platforms, a suggestion that will lend a legislative fillip to the demand for limiting children’s exposure to them at a time when countries around the world are warming up to the idea. The committee’s nudge to govt for limiting social media exposure for children, though it has not specified any age bracket but its suggestion appears to be aimed at them, comes amid growing call within India, including from state govts, to ban SM platforms for minors below a certain age. The parliament committee on communications and information technology, which is headed by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, has adopted its report and is likely to table this in Parliament on Monday, people aware of the development said. Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubWar to end in ‘weeks, not months’: Rubio says no need to send ground troops to IranInterview With Iran Envoy: Nuclear weapons are forbidden; India urged to mediateIt has also urged govt to consider bringing in a comprehensive legislation to prevent the misuse of Artificial Intelligence on the lines of stringent and binding laws enacted in several countries. Pitching for a comprehensive law to curb the misuse of Artificial Intelligence, the panel cited its deployment for financial frauds and intimidation besides deepfake audios and videos to back its suggestions even as it acknowledged govt’s steps to curb such incidence and protect innocent people, especially women and children. In the committee’s meetings, members cutting across party lines have flagged the growing danger of cyber crimes, which have robbed people of their lifelong savings in many cases which have hit national headlines, and asked for stringent counter measures. Currently, such cases fall under the provisions of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, an omnibus set of criminal laws, and IT Act. The panel has said, “The committee opines that AI should be used ethically and responsibly. The committee is given to understand that several countries in the world have already enacted stringent and binding laws to prevent the misuse of Artificial Intelligence. It urges govt to explore the possibility of a comprehensive legislation to prevent AI’s misuse and also explore if age restrictions for certain platforms could be an option to save people from the misuse of AI.” Official sources said the reference to certain platforms is meant for social media and its adverse impact on children. While there is a recognition within govt over the issue, it has so far restricted itself to conveying concerns and calling for building a consensus over the manner of dealing with the challenge. Two Indian states, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, have taken a stand for banning the use of children in a certain age group, but no nationwide policy on restricting social media usage exists so far. Australia became the first country to ban children under-16 having social media accounts, touching off a clamour for similar policy in different countries with several European nations now in the middle of formulating legislations. The panel said efficient use of AI will help resolve the “problems of humanity” and help common people through its integration into healthcare, education, agriculture, energy, industry and infrastructure creation. It has urged the ministry of electronics and IT to encourage specialised studies and courses in AI besides popularizing it from lower standards of schools, in colleges, academic research and PhDs and work for setting up data centres and AI Labs throughout the country.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosNirmala Sitharaman Blasts Lockdown Rumours, Compares Pakistan, Bangladesh Situation On Fuel Crisis’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework123Photostories5 books to read if you want to be rich and successful in lifeFake Desi Ghee in the market? How to check the purity of Ghee at homeIndia’s most iconic treks for the summer extreme adventure6 tallest buildings of Bangkok defining architectural brilliance8 fruits that can protect kids from heat strokeYou’re drinking water, but is your body actually using it? Doctor explains hidden hydration mistakes5 phrases that can emotionally hurt a childHow to grow beautiful zinnia flowers in your balcony garden8 Japanese food habits that help shed extra kilosRashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda’s chikankari moment proves newlywed fashion doesn’t always have to be loud123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealUS stock markets todayUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Photo credit: Agencies NEW DELHI: A parliamentary committee is set to recommend to government that it should explore introducing age-restrictions for social media platforms, a suggestion that will lend a legislative fillip to the demand for limiting children’s exposure to them at a time when countries around the world are warming up to the idea. The committee’s nudge to govt for limiting social media exposure for children, though it has not specified any age bracket but its suggestion appears to be aimed at them, comes amid growing call within India, including from state govts, to ban SM platforms for minors below a certain age. The parliament committee on communications and information technology, which is headed by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, has adopted its report and is likely to table this in Parliament on Monday, people aware of the development said. Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubWar to end in ‘weeks, not months’: Rubio says no need to send ground troops to IranInterview With Iran Envoy: Nuclear weapons are forbidden; India urged to mediateIt has also urged govt to consider bringing in a comprehensive legislation to prevent the misuse of Artificial Intelligence on the lines of stringent and binding laws enacted in several countries. Pitching for a comprehensive law to curb the misuse of Artificial Intelligence, the panel cited its deployment for financial frauds and intimidation besides deepfake audios and videos to back its suggestions even as it acknowledged govt’s steps to curb such incidence and protect innocent people, especially women and children. In the committee’s meetings, members cutting across party lines have flagged the growing danger of cyber crimes, which have robbed people of their lifelong savings in many cases which have hit national headlines, and asked for stringent counter measures. Currently, such cases fall under the provisions of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, an omnibus set of criminal laws, and IT Act. The panel has said, “The committee opines that AI should be used ethically and responsibly. The committee is given to understand that several countries in the world have already enacted stringent and binding laws to prevent the misuse of Artificial Intelligence. It urges govt to explore the possibility of a comprehensive legislation to prevent AI’s misuse and also explore if age restrictions for certain platforms could be an option to save people from the misuse of AI.” Official sources said the reference to certain platforms is meant for social media and its adverse impact on children. While there is a recognition within govt over the issue, it has so far restricted itself to conveying concerns and calling for building a consensus over the manner of dealing with the challenge. Two Indian states, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, have taken a stand for banning the use of children in a certain age group, but no nationwide policy on restricting social media usage exists so far. Australia became the first country to ban children under-16 having social media accounts, touching off a clamour for similar policy in different countries with several European nations now in the middle of formulating legislations. The panel said efficient use of AI will help resolve the “problems of humanity” and help common people through its integration into healthcare, education, agriculture, energy, industry and infrastructure creation. It has urged the ministry of electronics and IT to encourage specialised studies and courses in AI besides popularizing it from lower standards of schools, in colleges, academic research and PhDs and work for setting up data centres and AI Labs throughout the country.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosNirmala Sitharaman Blasts Lockdown Rumours, Compares Pakistan, Bangladesh Situation On Fuel Crisis’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework123Photostories5 books to read if you want to be rich and successful in lifeFake Desi Ghee in the market? How to check the purity of Ghee at homeIndia’s most iconic treks for the summer extreme adventure6 tallest buildings of Bangkok defining architectural brilliance8 fruits that can protect kids from heat strokeYou’re drinking water, but is your body actually using it? Doctor explains hidden hydration mistakes5 phrases that can emotionally hurt a childHow to grow beautiful zinnia flowers in your balcony garden8 Japanese food habits that help shed extra kilosRashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda’s chikankari moment proves newlywed fashion doesn’t always have to be loud123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealUS stock markets todayUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

NEW DELHI: A parliamentary committee is set to recommend to government that it should explore introducing age-restrictions for social media platforms, a suggestion that will lend a legislative fillip to the demand for limiting children’s exposure to them at a time when countries around the world are warming up to the idea. The committee’s nudge…

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Residents look on as rescue workers search for bodies in the rubble of a residential building that was hit in an airstrike in Tehran With almost a month into the West Asia conflict, people in Iran’s capital, Tehran, have started fearing for the worse. And ambiguous statements from Washington and threatening comments from Tel Aviv are adding to their predicament. Iranians living in India told TOI on Friday their dear ones back home have started moving out of the capital’s residential areas as there is a strong buzz among the population of a ground assault by the “enemy” in parts of their country in the coming days.“There is panic. People are deeply worried. No one knows whether the current talk of (ceasefire) talks would be fruitful or lead to some kind of a pause in air strikes by the US and Israel… Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubWar to end in ‘weeks, not months’: Rubio says no need to send ground troops to IranInterview With Iran Envoy: Nuclear weapons are forbidden; India urged to mediateMany families including mine, who live in Tehran, have started leaving their homes for ‘safer’ rural areas up north,” said Roya, an Iranian national.Living in Mumbai for the past few years with her husband, she added her family and friends are not waiting for the next 10 days (as announced by US president Donald Trump) before the US-Israel starts “something more offensive”. She said some of her family members have decided to move to their ancestral place in a quiet village far away from Tehran.Reza, an Iranian national living in Bangaluru for about four years, said residents have rationed groceries and essentials. “They have witnessed intense bombing and are scared,” he said.“We had learnt our lessons from the Iraq war. It was a part of culture in those days to collect rations, especially dry ones, for at least two months. As of now, there has been no food shortage in Tehran, but people there have stopped trusting Trump… We can see every night and day how our cities are being bombed. They can start a ground assault in my country any moment,” added Reza, whose family called him Thursday for “about two minutes”.”One major problem we are facing is the lack of connectivity,” Reza said. “Incoming calls into Iran from abroad are still not allowed…”However, govt of Iran has “relaxed communication blackouts by allowing video calls on social media apps”. “Thankfully, I managed to see the faces of my family via a video call on Bale App on Friday after almost a month. We couldn’t talk though, we only wept. Only God knows what will happen next,” said an Iranian woman in Delhi.About the AuthorKalyan DasPrincipal Correspondent at TOI Dehradun, covering crime, defence, power and off-beat human interest stories.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosNirmala Sitharaman Blasts Lockdown Rumours, Compares Pakistan, Bangladesh Situation On Fuel Crisis’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework123PhotostoriesIndia’s most iconic treks for the summer extreme adventure6 tallest buildings of Bangkok defining architectural brillianceYou’re drinking water, but is your body actually using it? Doctor explains hidden hydration mistakes5 phrases that can emotionally hurt a childHow to grow beautiful zinnia flowers in your balcony garden8 Japanese food habits that help shed extra kilosRashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda’s chikankari moment proves newlywed fashion doesn’t always have to be loudYour ‘healthy’ morning routine may be backfiring: What doctors say most people get wrong after waking up8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat Pandey123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealUS stock markets todayUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Residents look on as rescue workers search for bodies in the rubble of a residential building that was hit in an airstrike in Tehran With almost a month into the West Asia conflict, people in Iran’s capital, Tehran, have started fearing for the worse. And ambiguous statements from Washington and threatening comments from Tel Aviv are adding to their predicament. Iranians living in India told TOI on Friday their dear ones back home have started moving out of the capital’s residential areas as there is a strong buzz among the population of a ground assault by the “enemy” in parts of their country in the coming days.“There is panic. People are deeply worried. No one knows whether the current talk of (ceasefire) talks would be fruitful or lead to some kind of a pause in air strikes by the US and Israel… Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubWar to end in ‘weeks, not months’: Rubio says no need to send ground troops to IranInterview With Iran Envoy: Nuclear weapons are forbidden; India urged to mediateMany families including mine, who live in Tehran, have started leaving their homes for ‘safer’ rural areas up north,” said Roya, an Iranian national.Living in Mumbai for the past few years with her husband, she added her family and friends are not waiting for the next 10 days (as announced by US president Donald Trump) before the US-Israel starts “something more offensive”. She said some of her family members have decided to move to their ancestral place in a quiet village far away from Tehran.Reza, an Iranian national living in Bangaluru for about four years, said residents have rationed groceries and essentials. “They have witnessed intense bombing and are scared,” he said.“We had learnt our lessons from the Iraq war. It was a part of culture in those days to collect rations, especially dry ones, for at least two months. As of now, there has been no food shortage in Tehran, but people there have stopped trusting Trump… We can see every night and day how our cities are being bombed. They can start a ground assault in my country any moment,” added Reza, whose family called him Thursday for “about two minutes”.”One major problem we are facing is the lack of connectivity,” Reza said. “Incoming calls into Iran from abroad are still not allowed…”However, govt of Iran has “relaxed communication blackouts by allowing video calls on social media apps”. “Thankfully, I managed to see the faces of my family via a video call on Bale App on Friday after almost a month. We couldn’t talk though, we only wept. Only God knows what will happen next,” said an Iranian woman in Delhi.About the AuthorKalyan DasPrincipal Correspondent at TOI Dehradun, covering crime, defence, power and off-beat human interest stories.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosNirmala Sitharaman Blasts Lockdown Rumours, Compares Pakistan, Bangladesh Situation On Fuel Crisis’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework123PhotostoriesIndia’s most iconic treks for the summer extreme adventure6 tallest buildings of Bangkok defining architectural brillianceYou’re drinking water, but is your body actually using it? Doctor explains hidden hydration mistakes5 phrases that can emotionally hurt a childHow to grow beautiful zinnia flowers in your balcony garden8 Japanese food habits that help shed extra kilosRashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda’s chikankari moment proves newlywed fashion doesn’t always have to be loudYour ‘healthy’ morning routine may be backfiring: What doctors say most people get wrong after waking up8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat Pandey123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealUS stock markets todayUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Residents look on as rescue workers search for bodies in the rubble of a residential building that was hit in an airstrike in Tehran With almost a month into the West Asia conflict, people in Iran’s capital, Tehran, have started fearing for the worse. And ambiguous statements from Washington and threatening comments from Tel Aviv…

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File photo NEW DELHI: Cheap, effective and widely trusted, metformin has long been the first choice for treating type 2 diabetes. Now, scientists say the drug works in a way few had imagined — by acting directly on the brain.A study published in Science Advances by Baylor College of Medicine has uncovered a hidden brain pathway that helps explain how metformin lowers blood sugar, offering fresh insight into a medicine used for over six decades.For years, metformin was believed to act mainly on the liver and gut. The new research shows it also works through the ventromedial hypothalamus — a small but crucial brain region that controls hunger, energy use and glucose balance.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Blasts reported near Pakistan embassy in Tehran as Israel launches fresh wave of strikesUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightThe drug switches off a protein called Rap1 and activates nerve cells that regulate blood sugar, effectively using the brain’s control system. When this pathway was blocked, metformin stopped working while drugs like insulin remained effective. Even tiny amounts were enough to lower blood sugar.Lead researcher Makoto Fukuda said the discovery challenges long-held assumptions. Experts said the findings add clarity, not concern.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 MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123Photostories8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at home5 famous modern-day princesses, from Sheikha Mahra to Kate MiddletonAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped5 beautiful relationship lessons to learn from Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas123Hot PicksStock Market TodayDonald TrumpIran Strike on IsraelUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

File photo NEW DELHI: Cheap, effective and widely trusted, metformin has long been the first choice for treating type 2 diabetes. Now, scientists say the drug works in a way few had imagined — by acting directly on the brain.A study published in Science Advances by Baylor College of Medicine has uncovered a hidden brain pathway that helps explain how metformin lowers blood sugar, offering fresh insight into a medicine used for over six decades.For years, metformin was believed to act mainly on the liver and gut. The new research shows it also works through the ventromedial hypothalamus — a small but crucial brain region that controls hunger, energy use and glucose balance.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Blasts reported near Pakistan embassy in Tehran as Israel launches fresh wave of strikesUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightThe drug switches off a protein called Rap1 and activates nerve cells that regulate blood sugar, effectively using the brain’s control system. When this pathway was blocked, metformin stopped working while drugs like insulin remained effective. Even tiny amounts were enough to lower blood sugar.Lead researcher Makoto Fukuda said the discovery challenges long-held assumptions. Experts said the findings add clarity, not concern.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 MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123Photostories8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at home5 famous modern-day princesses, from Sheikha Mahra to Kate MiddletonAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped5 beautiful relationship lessons to learn from Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas123Hot PicksStock Market TodayDonald TrumpIran Strike on IsraelUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Cheap, effective and widely trusted, metformin has long been the first choice for treating type 2 diabetes. Now, scientists say the drug works in a way few had imagined — by acting directly on the brain.A study published in Science Advances by Baylor College of Medicine has uncovered a hidden brain pathway that…

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EAM Jaishankar NEW DELHI: External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Friday underscored the importance of freedom of navigation for global economic security in a meeting of the G7 foreign ministers in France, amid Iranian blockade of Strait of Hormuz. On the margins, Jaishankar also met his G7 counterparts, including US secretary of state Marco Rubio with whom, he said, he had “useful” talks.Jaishankar said on X he raised Global South’s concerns about energy challenges, fertiliser supplies and food security in the session on global governance. “The uncertainties arising from the conflict in West Asia only make a stronger case for more resilient trade corridors and supply chains,” he said. Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightJaishankar said on X India’s FTAs with the EU, EFTA members and the UK have enhanced the utility of IMEC. Watch EAM Jaishankar Highlights Israel’s Support In Wars, Calls It Vital For Defence Technology He also said on X that he highlighted the urgency of UNSC reforms, streamlining peacekeeping operations, and strengthening humanitarian supply chains.In an session on cross-cutting threats and sovereignty, Jaishankar emphasised the importance of freedom of navigation, and also spoke about the threat of narco-terror linkages. He also shared views about IMEC in one of the sessions, appreciating the “wide support and enthusiasm” to realise this important connectivity initiative.Jaishankar met his Canadian counterpart, Anita Anand. The two followed up on the outcomes from Canadian PM Mark Carney’s visit to India earlier this month.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123PhotostoriesRashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda’s chikankari moment proves newlywed fashion doesn’t always have to be loudYour ‘healthy’ morning routine may be backfiring: What doctors say most people get wrong after waking up8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at homeAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealUS stock markets todayUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

EAM Jaishankar NEW DELHI: External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Friday underscored the importance of freedom of navigation for global economic security in a meeting of the G7 foreign ministers in France, amid Iranian blockade of Strait of Hormuz. On the margins, Jaishankar also met his G7 counterparts, including US secretary of state Marco Rubio with whom, he said, he had “useful” talks.Jaishankar said on X he raised Global South’s concerns about energy challenges, fertiliser supplies and food security in the session on global governance. “The uncertainties arising from the conflict in West Asia only make a stronger case for more resilient trade corridors and supply chains,” he said. Israel Iran War‘A tremendous mistake’: Trump says he’ll cut spending on Nato over Iran war snubUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightJaishankar said on X India’s FTAs with the EU, EFTA members and the UK have enhanced the utility of IMEC. Watch EAM Jaishankar Highlights Israel’s Support In Wars, Calls It Vital For Defence Technology He also said on X that he highlighted the urgency of UNSC reforms, streamlining peacekeeping operations, and strengthening humanitarian supply chains.In an session on cross-cutting threats and sovereignty, Jaishankar emphasised the importance of freedom of navigation, and also spoke about the threat of narco-terror linkages. He also shared views about IMEC in one of the sessions, appreciating the “wide support and enthusiasm” to realise this important connectivity initiative.Jaishankar met his Canadian counterpart, Anita Anand. The two followed up on the outcomes from Canadian PM Mark Carney’s visit to India earlier this month.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123PhotostoriesRashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda’s chikankari moment proves newlywed fashion doesn’t always have to be loudYour ‘healthy’ morning routine may be backfiring: What doctors say most people get wrong after waking up8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at homeAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealUS stock markets todayUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

EAM Jaishankar NEW DELHI: External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Friday underscored the importance of freedom of navigation for global economic security in a meeting of the G7 foreign ministers in France, amid Iranian blockade of Strait of Hormuz. On the margins, Jaishankar also met his G7 counterparts, including US secretary of state Marco Rubio…

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Union minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan (ANI photo) NEW DELHI: India has sufficient stock of fertilisers and govt is working to ensure supply remains intact, Union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said Friday.“Whenever there is war, it’s a crisis for the entire world and has a direct and indirect impact on every country. I will not say there is no problem. But we have done all preparations to deal with it. As of today, we have adequate stock of fertilisers. Currently we are not worried and are working on plans to ensure it remains sufficient,” Chouhan said.He stressed govt will leave no stone unturned to ensure options remain available even during a prolonged conflict.Chouhan said there is a need to reduce burden on people in agriculture as landholdings are small, but noted many young people using technology are turning to farming. “Many farmers have doubled their income. Some have even tripled or quadrupled it,” he added.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123PhotostoriesExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at home5 famous modern-day princesses, from Sheikha Mahra to Kate MiddletonAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped5 beautiful relationship lessons to learn from Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas5 work habits secretly ruining your reputation – And how to fix them fast123Hot PicksStock Market TodayDonald TrumpIran Strike on IsraelUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingMiddle East CrisisBSEB 10th ResultPetrol Price TodayPoland Bent TreesUS Strike on IranFrance Underwater ShipwreckUS mortgage ratesUAE CycloneZojila PassPetrol Diesel Price

Union minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan (ANI photo) NEW DELHI: India has sufficient stock of fertilisers and govt is working to ensure supply remains intact, Union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said Friday.“Whenever there is war, it’s a crisis for the entire world and has a direct and indirect impact on every country. I will not say there is no problem. But we have done all preparations to deal with it. As of today, we have adequate stock of fertilisers. Currently we are not worried and are working on plans to ensure it remains sufficient,” Chouhan said.He stressed govt will leave no stone unturned to ensure options remain available even during a prolonged conflict.Chouhan said there is a need to reduce burden on people in agriculture as landholdings are small, but noted many young people using technology are turning to farming. “Many farmers have doubled their income. Some have even tripled or quadrupled it,” he added.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123PhotostoriesExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at home5 famous modern-day princesses, from Sheikha Mahra to Kate MiddletonAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped5 beautiful relationship lessons to learn from Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas5 work habits secretly ruining your reputation – And how to fix them fast123Hot PicksStock Market TodayDonald TrumpIran Strike on IsraelUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingMiddle East CrisisBSEB 10th ResultPetrol Price TodayPoland Bent TreesUS Strike on IranFrance Underwater ShipwreckUS mortgage ratesUAE CycloneZojila PassPetrol Diesel Price

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins

Union minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan (ANI photo) NEW DELHI: India has sufficient stock of fertilisers and govt is working to ensure supply remains intact, Union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said Friday.“Whenever there is war, it’s a crisis for the entire world and has a direct and indirect impact on every country. I will not…

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File photo NEW DELHI: In a major push for defence acquisition, the Rajnath Singh-led Defence Acquisition Council on Friday granted approvals to various proposals worth around Rs 2.38 lakh crore, including for additional units of the Russian-made S-400 long-range surface-to-air missile system and 155mm Dhanush — howitzer — gun systems.“The decisions taken in the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) will help in further strengthening India’s defence preparedness. It’s heartwarming to note that in the financial year 2025-26, AoN for 55 proposals, amounting to Rs 6.73 lakh crore, has been accorded by DAC. Moreover, capital procurement contracts have been signed for 503 proposals amounting to Rs 2.28 lakh crore in the current fiscal year. This is the highest number in any given financial year,” Rajnath said in a post on X.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Blasts reported near Pakistan embassy in Tehran as Israel launches fresh wave of strikesUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightThe approval for additional S-400 ‘Sudarshan’ systems, which had helped neutralise Pakistani missiles during last year’s conflict in May and had also to its credit the world’s longest-range kill of an enemy aircraft, has come at a time when IAF teams are in Russia to receive the fourth squadron under the earlier contract for five such systems.The fourth system is likely to arrive by May while the fifth squadron is expected by Dec.Another big approval is the nod for procurement of medium transport aircraft, most probably 60 of them, to replace IAF’s ageing transport fleet AN32 and IL-76 that help the force meet strategic, tactical and operational airlift requirements of the military. Brazilian firm Embraer, American company Lockheed Martin and Russian manufacturer Ilyushin are the main contenders vying for the mega contract.For the Army, the defence council has given approval for air defence tracked systems, armoured piercing tank ammunition, high-capacity radio relay, runway independent aerial surveillance system and 155mm Dhanush gun systems. For air defence tracked systems, reports indicate India could acquire Russian Pantsir-S1 systems to protect India’s S-400 assets from low-flying threats and drones.“The air defence tracked system will provide real-time air defence control and reporting capability, while the high-capacity radio relay will provide reliable and fail-proof communication,” a statement from the defence ministry said. The runway independent aerial surveillance system will provide surveillance capabilities to Army units, with armoured piercing tank ammunition enhancing lethality of anti-tank ammunition.The 155mm Dhanush howitzers, which have been deployed along the borders with Pakistan and China, will enhance the artillery’s capabilities to engage targets at longer ranges in all terrains with enhanced lethality and accuracy. The desi guns, whose design is based on the Bofors howitzers, have already been inducted into the Army, as 114 guns were ordered a few years ago.For the IAF, the DAC has approved remotely piloted strike aircraft and overhaul of Su-30 aero engine aggregates to increase the service life of IAF’s mainstay combat aircraft. Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft will enable undertaking offensive counter and coordinated air operations and provide stealth intelligence, surveillance and recognition activities.For the Indian Coast Guard, DAC accorded AoN for heavy-duty air cushion vehicles. These vehicles will be used for multipurpose maritime coastal operational roles, including high-speed coastal patrolling, reconnaissance, search and rescue operations.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123Photostories8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at home5 famous modern-day princesses, from Sheikha Mahra to Kate MiddletonAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped5 beautiful relationship lessons to learn from Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealUS stock markets todayUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

File photo NEW DELHI: In a major push for defence acquisition, the Rajnath Singh-led Defence Acquisition Council on Friday granted approvals to various proposals worth around Rs 2.38 lakh crore, including for additional units of the Russian-made S-400 long-range surface-to-air missile system and 155mm Dhanush — howitzer — gun systems.“The decisions taken in the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) will help in further strengthening India’s defence preparedness. It’s heartwarming to note that in the financial year 2025-26, AoN for 55 proposals, amounting to Rs 6.73 lakh crore, has been accorded by DAC. Moreover, capital procurement contracts have been signed for 503 proposals amounting to Rs 2.28 lakh crore in the current fiscal year. This is the highest number in any given financial year,” Rajnath said in a post on X.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Blasts reported near Pakistan embassy in Tehran as Israel launches fresh wave of strikesUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightThe approval for additional S-400 ‘Sudarshan’ systems, which had helped neutralise Pakistani missiles during last year’s conflict in May and had also to its credit the world’s longest-range kill of an enemy aircraft, has come at a time when IAF teams are in Russia to receive the fourth squadron under the earlier contract for five such systems.The fourth system is likely to arrive by May while the fifth squadron is expected by Dec.Another big approval is the nod for procurement of medium transport aircraft, most probably 60 of them, to replace IAF’s ageing transport fleet AN32 and IL-76 that help the force meet strategic, tactical and operational airlift requirements of the military. Brazilian firm Embraer, American company Lockheed Martin and Russian manufacturer Ilyushin are the main contenders vying for the mega contract.For the Army, the defence council has given approval for air defence tracked systems, armoured piercing tank ammunition, high-capacity radio relay, runway independent aerial surveillance system and 155mm Dhanush gun systems. For air defence tracked systems, reports indicate India could acquire Russian Pantsir-S1 systems to protect India’s S-400 assets from low-flying threats and drones.“The air defence tracked system will provide real-time air defence control and reporting capability, while the high-capacity radio relay will provide reliable and fail-proof communication,” a statement from the defence ministry said. The runway independent aerial surveillance system will provide surveillance capabilities to Army units, with armoured piercing tank ammunition enhancing lethality of anti-tank ammunition.The 155mm Dhanush howitzers, which have been deployed along the borders with Pakistan and China, will enhance the artillery’s capabilities to engage targets at longer ranges in all terrains with enhanced lethality and accuracy. The desi guns, whose design is based on the Bofors howitzers, have already been inducted into the Army, as 114 guns were ordered a few years ago.For the IAF, the DAC has approved remotely piloted strike aircraft and overhaul of Su-30 aero engine aggregates to increase the service life of IAF’s mainstay combat aircraft. Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft will enable undertaking offensive counter and coordinated air operations and provide stealth intelligence, surveillance and recognition activities.For the Indian Coast Guard, DAC accorded AoN for heavy-duty air cushion vehicles. These vehicles will be used for multipurpose maritime coastal operational roles, including high-speed coastal patrolling, reconnaissance, search and rescue operations.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123Photostories8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at home5 famous modern-day princesses, from Sheikha Mahra to Kate MiddletonAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped5 beautiful relationship lessons to learn from Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealUS stock markets todayUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

NEW DELHI: In a major push for defence acquisition, the Rajnath Singh-led Defence Acquisition Council on Friday granted approvals to various proposals worth around Rs 2.38 lakh crore, including for additional units of the Russian-made S-400 long-range surface-to-air missile system and 155mm Dhanush — howitzer — gun systems.“The decisions taken in the Defence Acquisition Council…

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MoD inks Rs 858 crore contracts for Tunguska Air Defence Missile System and Inspection (Depot Level) of P8I Aircraft NEW DELHI: The defence ministry on Friday signed a deal for the procurement of Tunguska air defence missile systems from Russia and another contract for maintenance of its P8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft fleet with Boeing India. The combined cost of the two contracts is Rs 858 crore.The contract for the procurement of Tunguska systems, valued at Rs 445 crore, for the Indian Army, was signed with JSC Rosoboronexport of Russia in the presence of defence secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi. These cutting-edge missiles will enhance India’s multi-layered air defence capabilities against aerial threats. Tunguska is designed to provide day-and- night protection for infantry and tank regiments against low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and cruise missiles in all-weather conditions. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Blasts reported near Pakistan embassy in Tehran as Israel launches fresh wave of strikesUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightThe Tunguska agreement will further strengthen the Indo-Russian strategic defence partnership.The contract for the Inspection (depot level) of P8I aircraft for the Indian Navy under the buy Indian category with 100% indigenous content, valued at Rs 413 crore, was signed with Boeing India Defence Private Ltd, a wholly owned Indian subsidiary of Boeing. This contract will ensure depot level maintenance of P8I fleet at in-country maintenance, repair and overhaul facility, which is in line with the govt’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat. The Indian Navy currently operates 12 Boeing P-8I Poseidon long-range maritime patrol aircraft. These aircraft are stationed at INS Rajali in Tamil Nadu and INS Hansa in Goa. The country is also in the process of acquiring six additional P-8I aircraft, which will take the fleet to 18.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123Photostories8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at home5 famous modern-day princesses, from Sheikha Mahra to Kate MiddletonAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped5 beautiful relationship lessons to learn from Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealUS stock markets todayUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

MoD inks Rs 858 crore contracts for Tunguska Air Defence Missile System and Inspection (Depot Level) of P8I Aircraft NEW DELHI: The defence ministry on Friday signed a deal for the procurement of Tunguska air defence missile systems from Russia and another contract for maintenance of its P8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft fleet with Boeing India. The combined cost of the two contracts is Rs 858 crore.The contract for the procurement of Tunguska systems, valued at Rs 445 crore, for the Indian Army, was signed with JSC Rosoboronexport of Russia in the presence of defence secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi. These cutting-edge missiles will enhance India’s multi-layered air defence capabilities against aerial threats. Tunguska is designed to provide day-and- night protection for infantry and tank regiments against low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and cruise missiles in all-weather conditions. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Blasts reported near Pakistan embassy in Tehran as Israel launches fresh wave of strikesUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightThe Tunguska agreement will further strengthen the Indo-Russian strategic defence partnership.The contract for the Inspection (depot level) of P8I aircraft for the Indian Navy under the buy Indian category with 100% indigenous content, valued at Rs 413 crore, was signed with Boeing India Defence Private Ltd, a wholly owned Indian subsidiary of Boeing. This contract will ensure depot level maintenance of P8I fleet at in-country maintenance, repair and overhaul facility, which is in line with the govt’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat. The Indian Navy currently operates 12 Boeing P-8I Poseidon long-range maritime patrol aircraft. These aircraft are stationed at INS Rajali in Tamil Nadu and INS Hansa in Goa. The country is also in the process of acquiring six additional P-8I aircraft, which will take the fleet to 18.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123Photostories8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at home5 famous modern-day princesses, from Sheikha Mahra to Kate MiddletonAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped5 beautiful relationship lessons to learn from Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealUS stock markets todayUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

MoD inks Rs 858 crore contracts for Tunguska Air Defence Missile System and Inspection (Depot Level) of P8I Aircraft NEW DELHI: The defence ministry on Friday signed a deal for the procurement of Tunguska air defence missile systems from Russia and another contract for maintenance of its P8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft fleet with Boeing…

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PTI photo KOLKATA: West Bengal’s second supplementary voters’ list was published around 11pm Friday, albeit with little clarity on how many among the 12 lakh names on it had cleared judicial scrutiny.As was the case when Election Commission released the first supplementary rolls close to midnight last Monday, there were more questions than CEO Manoj Agarwal had answers for. “About 37 lakh of the 60 lakh pending cases have been disposed of till now. After receiving the list from Calcutta HC, EC will take 4-6 hours to process and upload it on our server,” he said in the afternoon.The list can be accessed at voters.eci.gov.in, ceowestbengal.wb.gov.in, and ECINET app. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Blasts reported near Pakistan embassy in Tehran as Israel launches fresh wave of strikesUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightCopies will be displayed at polling stations and available with district election officers, DMs, SDOs and BDOs. Those who didn’t make the cut can appeal within 15 days, online or offline, before appellate tribunals. One more list is slated to be published on April 3.EC sources said 35-40% of those whose documents were examined by judicial officers had been disenfranchised.CM Mamata Banerjee’s TMC filed an appeal Friday before CJ Sujoy Paul of Calcutta HC, seeking daily publication of supplementary lists. The party said the first list only had 749,863 names, although judicial officers had by then disposed of 27 lakh cases. There was no information on the remaining 20-odd lakh names, it said.It also pointed out that 11 of its election candidates under adjudication were still in the dark about their voter status. It flagged the narrow window for disposal of appeals against exclusion, referring to the April 7 deadline for “locking” voters’ lists for the 152 constituencies going to polls in the first phase.On Friday, CJ Paul chaired a meeting on the publication of the second supplementary list with chief secretary Dushyant Nariala, home secretary Sanghamitra Ghosh, DGP S N Gupta, Kolkata police commissioner Ajay Nand, CEO Agarwal and special roll observer Subrata Gupta.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123Photostories8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at home5 famous modern-day princesses, from Sheikha Mahra to Kate MiddletonAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped5 beautiful relationship lessons to learn from Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealUS stock markets todayUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

PTI photo KOLKATA: West Bengal’s second supplementary voters’ list was published around 11pm Friday, albeit with little clarity on how many among the 12 lakh names on it had cleared judicial scrutiny.As was the case when Election Commission released the first supplementary rolls close to midnight last Monday, there were more questions than CEO Manoj Agarwal had answers for. “About 37 lakh of the 60 lakh pending cases have been disposed of till now. After receiving the list from Calcutta HC, EC will take 4-6 hours to process and upload it on our server,” he said in the afternoon.The list can be accessed at voters.eci.gov.in, ceowestbengal.wb.gov.in, and ECINET app. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Blasts reported near Pakistan embassy in Tehran as Israel launches fresh wave of strikesUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightCopies will be displayed at polling stations and available with district election officers, DMs, SDOs and BDOs. Those who didn’t make the cut can appeal within 15 days, online or offline, before appellate tribunals. One more list is slated to be published on April 3.EC sources said 35-40% of those whose documents were examined by judicial officers had been disenfranchised.CM Mamata Banerjee’s TMC filed an appeal Friday before CJ Sujoy Paul of Calcutta HC, seeking daily publication of supplementary lists. The party said the first list only had 749,863 names, although judicial officers had by then disposed of 27 lakh cases. There was no information on the remaining 20-odd lakh names, it said.It also pointed out that 11 of its election candidates under adjudication were still in the dark about their voter status. It flagged the narrow window for disposal of appeals against exclusion, referring to the April 7 deadline for “locking” voters’ lists for the 152 constituencies going to polls in the first phase.On Friday, CJ Paul chaired a meeting on the publication of the second supplementary list with chief secretary Dushyant Nariala, home secretary Sanghamitra Ghosh, DGP S N Gupta, Kolkata police commissioner Ajay Nand, CEO Agarwal and special roll observer Subrata Gupta.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123Photostories8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at home5 famous modern-day princesses, from Sheikha Mahra to Kate MiddletonAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped5 beautiful relationship lessons to learn from Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealUS stock markets todayUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

KOLKATA: West Bengal’s second supplementary voters’ list was published around 11pm Friday, albeit with little clarity on how many among the 12 lakh names on it had cleared judicial scrutiny.As was the case when Election Commission released the first supplementary rolls close to midnight last Monday, there were more questions than CEO Manoj Agarwal had…

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Ani Ambani NEW DELHI: Enforcement Directorate has filed a prosecution complaint (chargesheet) before a special court here against Punit Garg, a close associate of Anil Ambani, in a money laundering probe against Reliance Communications (RCom).RCom, Ambani, his close associates and some family members are under investigation in the purchase and sale of an apartment worth over Rs 70 crore in Manhattan, New York. Sources said the chargesheet has mentioned Vaishali Jairam Mane, besides Garg, as an accused. Mane was an RCom employee based in the US. ED had questioned Ambani and his son in this case earlier.The probe agency has established a money trail of funds allegedly siphoned off from RCom and transactions layered through several related shell entities. One of the shell companies was used to fund foreign education of Garg’s children from the alleged proceeds of crime siphoned off from bank loans RCom had received from an SBI-led consortium.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Blasts reported near Pakistan embassy in Tehran as Israel launches fresh wave of strikesUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightLater, the Manhattan apartment was sold for .3 million and the money was “remitted from the USA under the guise of a sham investment arrangement with a Dubai-based entity controlled by a Pakistan-linked individual, without the knowledge or consent of the resolution professional”. Dubai-based Azco Real Estate Brokers LLC is also under investigation.Garg was arrested on Jan 29 at the ED headquarters where he was called for interrogation relating to the Manhattan apartment and funding of over ,000 towards college fees of his children, besides using the rental income of over ,000 from the apartment to pay for expenses of his daughter.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123Photostories8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at homeAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skippedNora Fatehi looks divine in a deep purple Raw Mango saree10 mind-blowing facts about the blue planet, Earth123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealUS stock markets todayUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Ani Ambani NEW DELHI: Enforcement Directorate has filed a prosecution complaint (chargesheet) before a special court here against Punit Garg, a close associate of Anil Ambani, in a money laundering probe against Reliance Communications (RCom).RCom, Ambani, his close associates and some family members are under investigation in the purchase and sale of an apartment worth over Rs 70 crore in Manhattan, New York. Sources said the chargesheet has mentioned Vaishali Jairam Mane, besides Garg, as an accused. Mane was an RCom employee based in the US. ED had questioned Ambani and his son in this case earlier.The probe agency has established a money trail of funds allegedly siphoned off from RCom and transactions layered through several related shell entities. One of the shell companies was used to fund foreign education of Garg’s children from the alleged proceeds of crime siphoned off from bank loans RCom had received from an SBI-led consortium.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Blasts reported near Pakistan embassy in Tehran as Israel launches fresh wave of strikesUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightLater, the Manhattan apartment was sold for $8.3 million and the money was “remitted from the USA under the guise of a sham investment arrangement with a Dubai-based entity controlled by a Pakistan-linked individual, without the knowledge or consent of the resolution professional”. Dubai-based Azco Real Estate Brokers LLC is also under investigation.Garg was arrested on Jan 29 at the ED headquarters where he was called for interrogation relating to the Manhattan apartment and funding of over $40,000 towards college fees of his children, besides using the rental income of over $36,000 from the apartment to pay for expenses of his daughter.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123Photostories8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at homeAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skippedNora Fatehi looks divine in a deep purple Raw Mango saree10 mind-blowing facts about the blue planet, Earth123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealUS stock markets todayUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Enforcement Directorate has filed a prosecution complaint (chargesheet) before a special court here against Punit Garg, a close associate of Anil Ambani, in a money laundering probe against Reliance Communications (RCom).RCom, Ambani, his close associates and some family members are under investigation in the purchase and sale of an apartment worth over Rs…

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Mamata Banerjee NEW DELHI: Election Commission Friday sought a report from the West Bengal chief electoral officer on the recent statement by chief minister Mamata Banerjee at a public meeting in Naxalbari, Darjeeling, allegedly instigating local women to be at polling booths and use household kitchen items to deal with “necessary situations”.With her statement seen as a provocation to TMC women workers and supporters to launch attacks at polling stations in rural areas, posing a risk to the central armed police forces deployed there, of facing criminal charges were they to intervene and stop them, EC will examine if the statement amounts of provocation and interferes in discharge of duties by poll and security personnel. If so, whether it merits action for violation of the model code and other laws including BNS and the RP Act.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Blasts reported near Pakistan embassy in Tehran as Israel launches fresh wave of strikesUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightIn video footage from her public meeting in Naxalbari Wednesday, Mamata can be heard as saying, “The women of West Bengal will have to take special initiative this time to protect polling booths from morning on polling days. If you want peace in West Bengal for five years, you will have to protect the booths for a day and prevent outsiders from electoral manipulations. Come out on the streets with whatever you have at home”.Meanwhile, an FIR has been lodged against those accused in the incident of violence that occurred Thursday at Basanti Bazar, Baruipur police district, in which several persons, including police personnel, were injured. The accused have been arrested.EC had earlier suspended Inspector Avijit Paul, in-charge of Basanti PS, for having failed to make adequate police arrangements in spite of having prior information regarding public programme of two political parties. Further, CAPFs had been made available for the last few days. Despite this he did not requisition CAPF. “This reflects serious negligence and dereliction of duty on his part,” EC had observed.About the AuthorBharti JainBharti Jain is senior editor with The Times of India, New Delhi. She has been writing on security matters since 1996. Having covered the Union home ministry, security agencies, Election Commission and the ‘prime’ political beat, the Congress, for The Economic Times all these years, she moved to TOI in August 2012. Her repertoire of news stories delves into the whole gamut of issues related to terrorism and internal strife, besides probing strategic affairs in India’s neighbourhood.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123Photostories8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at home5 famous modern-day princesses, from Sheikha Mahra to Kate MiddletonAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped5 beautiful relationship lessons to learn from Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealUS stock markets todayUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Mamata Banerjee NEW DELHI: Election Commission Friday sought a report from the West Bengal chief electoral officer on the recent statement by chief minister Mamata Banerjee at a public meeting in Naxalbari, Darjeeling, allegedly instigating local women to be at polling booths and use household kitchen items to deal with “necessary situations”.With her statement seen as a provocation to TMC women workers and supporters to launch attacks at polling stations in rural areas, posing a risk to the central armed police forces deployed there, of facing criminal charges were they to intervene and stop them, EC will examine if the statement amounts of provocation and interferes in discharge of duties by poll and security personnel. If so, whether it merits action for violation of the model code and other laws including BNS and the RP Act.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Blasts reported near Pakistan embassy in Tehran as Israel launches fresh wave of strikesUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightIn video footage from her public meeting in Naxalbari Wednesday, Mamata can be heard as saying, “The women of West Bengal will have to take special initiative this time to protect polling booths from morning on polling days. If you want peace in West Bengal for five years, you will have to protect the booths for a day and prevent outsiders from electoral manipulations. Come out on the streets with whatever you have at home”.Meanwhile, an FIR has been lodged against those accused in the incident of violence that occurred Thursday at Basanti Bazar, Baruipur police district, in which several persons, including police personnel, were injured. The accused have been arrested.EC had earlier suspended Inspector Avijit Paul, in-charge of Basanti PS, for having failed to make adequate police arrangements in spite of having prior information regarding public programme of two political parties. Further, CAPFs had been made available for the last few days. Despite this he did not requisition CAPF. “This reflects serious negligence and dereliction of duty on his part,” EC had observed.About the AuthorBharti JainBharti Jain is senior editor with The Times of India, New Delhi. She has been writing on security matters since 1996. Having covered the Union home ministry, security agencies, Election Commission and the ‘prime’ political beat, the Congress, for The Economic Times all these years, she moved to TOI in August 2012. Her repertoire of news stories delves into the whole gamut of issues related to terrorism and internal strife, besides probing strategic affairs in India’s neighbourhood.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123Photostories8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at home5 famous modern-day princesses, from Sheikha Mahra to Kate MiddletonAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped5 beautiful relationship lessons to learn from Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas123Hot PicksE-chequesIndia-US trade dealUS stock markets todayUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Election Commission Friday sought a report from the West Bengal chief electoral officer on the recent statement by chief minister Mamata Banerjee at a public meeting in Naxalbari, Darjeeling, allegedly instigating local women to be at polling booths and use household kitchen items to deal with “necessary situations”.With her statement seen as a…

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Pandit Ramkishan NEW DELHI: A month ago, Pandit Ramkishan sat on a dharna in Rajasthan, demanding better quality water for his home district, Bharatpur. One of India’s oldest former MPs (he was in Parliament in 1977), he told TOI on Friday, a day before he turned 100, that he will always remain a socialist. “That’s what I learnt from Ram Manohar Lohia.”Sitting in his Bharatpur home, the veteran, “Lohia’s oldest disciple” as he likes to call himself, speaks with the authority of one who has not just witnessed history, but shaped it. Until a recent fall briefly hospitalised him, he was holding three meetings a week.What keeps him going is unfinished work.“The day I stop thinking about a better India, that’s the day I will stop living. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Blasts reported near Pakistan embassy in Tehran as Israel launches fresh wave of strikesUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightI am alive now and my voice will be heard,” he insists. “The values we fought for — equality, integrity, dialogue — are under strain. We need to speak up.” Aptly named, his autobiography, out last year, said just that — Main Zinda Hoon.First half of life defined by ideology, second has seen its erosion: PanditjiBut why continue agitations that are physically taxing, sitting under the sun, sometimes without food and water, with a failing knee and the weight of a century behind him? “It comes naturally to me,” Pandit Ramkishan says simply.A participant in the Quit India movement of 1942, “and shaped by Lohia and Jayaprakash Narayan”, Panditji, as people call him fondly, was jailed during the Emergency, from which, he says, he came out wiser.Not born into politics, he was a farmer’s son for whom Independence meant “freedom from fear, from ‘lagaan’ and scarcity, and freedom from a system that kept the common man on edge”.He recalls looking for Mahatma Gandhi in his youth. As a student in Bharatpur, he one day travelled to Delhi with a few coins collected among friends, hoping to hear Gandhi speak. Panditji was not impressed. “We had gone looking for revolutionary ideas.”Today, he believes, the idea of freedom itself is unsettled. If the first half of his life was defined by ideology, the second, he says, has seen its erosion. Politics, he argues, has shifted from conviction to convenience.Panditji left the Congress when the socialist bloc split — and never returned. He remembers repeated attempts to bring him over, including offers to head the state of Rajasthan. He refused. “It was difficult — but necessary…opportunity or pressure should never override principle.”So, what are the modern issues he grapples with these days? “Quite a few,” he says. “From problems concerning farmers and Dalits to climate change, unemployment and artificial intelligence.” What unsettles him, though, is “what politics now has lost”. He tells a story. “I was contesting against Union minister Babu Raj Bahadur, who once stopped mid-journey to help me during my campaign when my vehicle broke down. We were fighting elections, but there was no enmity.”Today, he says, the opponent is treated as an enemy, not as part of governance. “Criticism is meant to strengthen democracy — not invite hostility.”Is he hopeful?Panditji pauses. There is pessimism when he speaks of communal polarisation and political opportunism. But also a refusal to give up. “The solution will not come from political parties. It’s the common people who have to understand what affects the country’s progress, and in turn, their own,” he said.About the AuthorIsmat AraAt The Times of India, Ismat Ara covers politics, people, and societies, with a focus on accountability, justice, and lived experience. Shaped by years of rigorous reporting across cities, small towns, and remote villages, she is drawn to the human stories tucked beneath policy and paperwork.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123Photostories8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at home5 famous modern-day princesses, from Sheikha Mahra to Kate MiddletonAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped5 beautiful relationship lessons to learn from Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas123Hot PicksStock Market TodayDonald TrumpIran Strike on IsraelUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Pandit Ramkishan NEW DELHI: A month ago, Pandit Ramkishan sat on a dharna in Rajasthan, demanding better quality water for his home district, Bharatpur. One of India’s oldest former MPs (he was in Parliament in 1977), he told TOI on Friday, a day before he turned 100, that he will always remain a socialist. “That’s what I learnt from Ram Manohar Lohia.”Sitting in his Bharatpur home, the veteran, “Lohia’s oldest disciple” as he likes to call himself, speaks with the authority of one who has not just witnessed history, but shaped it. Until a recent fall briefly hospitalised him, he was holding three meetings a week.What keeps him going is unfinished work.“The day I stop thinking about a better India, that’s the day I will stop living. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Blasts reported near Pakistan embassy in Tehran as Israel launches fresh wave of strikesUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightI am alive now and my voice will be heard,” he insists. “The values we fought for — equality, integrity, dialogue — are under strain. We need to speak up.” Aptly named, his autobiography, out last year, said just that — Main Zinda Hoon.First half of life defined by ideology, second has seen its erosion: PanditjiBut why continue agitations that are physically taxing, sitting under the sun, sometimes without food and water, with a failing knee and the weight of a century behind him? “It comes naturally to me,” Pandit Ramkishan says simply.A participant in the Quit India movement of 1942, “and shaped by Lohia and Jayaprakash Narayan”, Panditji, as people call him fondly, was jailed during the Emergency, from which, he says, he came out wiser.Not born into politics, he was a farmer’s son for whom Independence meant “freedom from fear, from ‘lagaan’ and scarcity, and freedom from a system that kept the common man on edge”.He recalls looking for Mahatma Gandhi in his youth. As a student in Bharatpur, he one day travelled to Delhi with a few coins collected among friends, hoping to hear Gandhi speak. Panditji was not impressed. “We had gone looking for revolutionary ideas.”Today, he believes, the idea of freedom itself is unsettled. If the first half of his life was defined by ideology, the second, he says, has seen its erosion. Politics, he argues, has shifted from conviction to convenience.Panditji left the Congress when the socialist bloc split — and never returned. He remembers repeated attempts to bring him over, including offers to head the state of Rajasthan. He refused. “It was difficult — but necessary…opportunity or pressure should never override principle.”So, what are the modern issues he grapples with these days? “Quite a few,” he says. “From problems concerning farmers and Dalits to climate change, unemployment and artificial intelligence.” What unsettles him, though, is “what politics now has lost”. He tells a story. “I was contesting against Union minister Babu Raj Bahadur, who once stopped mid-journey to help me during my campaign when my vehicle broke down. We were fighting elections, but there was no enmity.”Today, he says, the opponent is treated as an enemy, not as part of governance. “Criticism is meant to strengthen democracy — not invite hostility.”Is he hopeful?Panditji pauses. There is pessimism when he speaks of communal polarisation and political opportunism. But also a refusal to give up. “The solution will not come from political parties. It’s the common people who have to understand what affects the country’s progress, and in turn, their own,” he said.About the AuthorIsmat AraAt The Times of India, Ismat Ara covers politics, people, and societies, with a focus on accountability, justice, and lived experience. Shaped by years of rigorous reporting across cities, small towns, and remote villages, she is drawn to the human stories tucked beneath policy and paperwork.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123Photostories8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at home5 famous modern-day princesses, from Sheikha Mahra to Kate MiddletonAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped5 beautiful relationship lessons to learn from Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas123Hot PicksStock Market TodayDonald TrumpIran Strike on IsraelUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

NEW DELHI: A month ago, Pandit Ramkishan sat on a dharna in Rajasthan, demanding better quality water for his home district, Bharatpur. One of India’s oldest former MPs (he was in Parliament in 1977), he told TOI on Friday, a day before he turned 100, that he will always remain a socialist. “That’s what I…

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Representative image NEW DELHI: A special Delhi court on Friday acquitted former Congress MP Vijay Darda, his son Devendra, ex-coal secretary H C Gupta and others in a coal block allocation case, ending over a decade of trial after finding the evidence “highly insufficient” to prove charges of cheating, conspiracy, or misconduct.The case stemmed from the allocation in Maharashtra’s Bandar and led to the first CBI chargesheet in the larger coal block controversy dating back to the time Congress-led UPA was in office. The FIR was filed in 2012 and the chargesheet in 2014.Judge Sunena Sharma held that there was no proof of criminal conspiracy, noting the case was based on conjectures and lacked evidence of a “meeting of minds” or illegal agreement. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Blasts reported near Pakistan embassy in Tehran as Israel launches fresh wave of strikesUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightThe others cleared included AMR Iron and Steel Private Ltd, which had bagged the block in Maharashtra’s Bander, its director Manoj Kumar Jayaswal and two others. Advocate Mudit Jain appeared for Jayaswal, the Dardas and AMR, while lawyer Rahul Tyagi represented Gupta.Sharma observed that the material on record was too sparse to conclusively establish any of the essential ingredients — viz deception, inducement, dishonest intention or cheating under Section 420 of IPC.CBI had alleged that AMR, in conspiracy with Gupta, submitted false information to a screening committee of the Union coal ministry to secure the allocation. According to CBI, then Rajya Sabha MP Vijay wrote to various departments allegedly reiterating misrepresentations to influence the allocation process and received Rs 24.6 crore as illegal gratification.Strictly follow rule on not naming survivor: SCSC said: “Clearly, the intent of this Section has been given a miss in these proceedings. The name of the survivor is treated like that of any other witness and is freely used throughout the record. This must be deprecated in the strongest terms. In fact, this court has noticed earlier also that the mandate of this provision is not being followed”.The court said that a copy of this judgment be sent to all high courts to ensure strict compliance with the apex court’s order.“This has been the long-standing position in law but it has not been followed. The primary reason there amongst, one supposes, is the general indifference of the courts below and possibly even the lack of awareness of the deep stigma that follows such offences,” the Supreme Court said.Supreme Court, while convicting the accused and setting aside the acquittal order of Uttarakhand high court, said courts must not give undue importance to minor discrepancies.“A truthful witness may make honest mistakes or omit immaterial details, and such normal variation should not result in wholesale rejection of evidence. However, when omissions or contradictions relate to material facts that form the foundation of the prosecution’s version, they assume significance and may create reasonable doubt….We may observe that the approach adopted by the high court is one of attempting to pick holes in a case that otherwise has withstood the test of cross-examination. The prosecutrix has positively identified the respondent-accused and has unequivocally stated that it was he who forced himself upon her,” it said.About the AuthorKoushiki SahaKoushiki Saha, a trainee journalist currently reporting for The Times of India, covers urban governance, infrastructure lapses, public grievances, and municipal policies with clarity and compassion. Still learning every day, she draws insights from fieldwork, lived experiences, and holding authorities accountable through persistent, people-focused reporting.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123Photostories8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at home5 famous modern-day princesses, from Sheikha Mahra to Kate MiddletonAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped5 beautiful relationship lessons to learn from Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas123Hot PicksStock Market TodayDonald TrumpIran Strike on IsraelUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Representative image NEW DELHI: A special Delhi court on Friday acquitted former Congress MP Vijay Darda, his son Devendra, ex-coal secretary H C Gupta and others in a coal block allocation case, ending over a decade of trial after finding the evidence “highly insufficient” to prove charges of cheating, conspiracy, or misconduct.The case stemmed from the allocation in Maharashtra’s Bandar and led to the first CBI chargesheet in the larger coal block controversy dating back to the time Congress-led UPA was in office. The FIR was filed in 2012 and the chargesheet in 2014.Judge Sunena Sharma held that there was no proof of criminal conspiracy, noting the case was based on conjectures and lacked evidence of a “meeting of minds” or illegal agreement. Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Blasts reported near Pakistan embassy in Tehran as Israel launches fresh wave of strikesUS-Iran war: India prepares to re-start LNG buys from Russia; seeks Trump admin waiver, says reportMiddle East crisis: Govt levies export duties on diesel, turbine oil; eyes over Rs 1,500 crore collection in fortnightThe others cleared included AMR Iron and Steel Private Ltd, which had bagged the block in Maharashtra’s Bander, its director Manoj Kumar Jayaswal and two others. Advocate Mudit Jain appeared for Jayaswal, the Dardas and AMR, while lawyer Rahul Tyagi represented Gupta.Sharma observed that the material on record was too sparse to conclusively establish any of the essential ingredients — viz deception, inducement, dishonest intention or cheating under Section 420 of IPC.CBI had alleged that AMR, in conspiracy with Gupta, submitted false information to a screening committee of the Union coal ministry to secure the allocation. According to CBI, then Rajya Sabha MP Vijay wrote to various departments allegedly reiterating misrepresentations to influence the allocation process and received Rs 24.6 crore as illegal gratification.Strictly follow rule on not naming survivor: SCSC said: “Clearly, the intent of this Section has been given a miss in these proceedings. The name of the survivor is treated like that of any other witness and is freely used throughout the record. This must be deprecated in the strongest terms. In fact, this court has noticed earlier also that the mandate of this provision is not being followed”.The court said that a copy of this judgment be sent to all high courts to ensure strict compliance with the apex court’s order.“This has been the long-standing position in law but it has not been followed. The primary reason there amongst, one supposes, is the general indifference of the courts below and possibly even the lack of awareness of the deep stigma that follows such offences,” the Supreme Court said.Supreme Court, while convicting the accused and setting aside the acquittal order of Uttarakhand high court, said courts must not give undue importance to minor discrepancies.“A truthful witness may make honest mistakes or omit immaterial details, and such normal variation should not result in wholesale rejection of evidence. However, when omissions or contradictions relate to material facts that form the foundation of the prosecution’s version, they assume significance and may create reasonable doubt….We may observe that the approach adopted by the high court is one of attempting to pick holes in a case that otherwise has withstood the test of cross-examination. The prosecutrix has positively identified the respondent-accused and has unequivocally stated that it was he who forced himself upon her,” it said.About the AuthorKoushiki SahaKoushiki Saha, a trainee journalist currently reporting for The Times of India, covers urban governance, infrastructure lapses, public grievances, and municipal policies with clarity and compassion. Still learning every day, she draws insights from fieldwork, lived experiences, and holding authorities accountable through persistent, people-focused reporting.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Team India’: PM Modi Meets With CMs, Urges Covid-Like Coordination Amid West Asia CrisisPM Modi Congratulates Balendra Shah On Becoming Nepal PM, Eyes Stronger India-Nepal Ties‘Systemic Victimisation’: India Blasts Munir’s ‘Go To Iran’ Remark, Targets Pakistan On 1971 Denial’Pak Remains In Denial’: India Hits Out Over Op Searchlight Genocide, Backs Dhaka’s Justice Call‘Lockdown Rumours False’: Oil Minister; Centre Slashes Excise Duty On Fuel, Will It Help Consumers?BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Targets Rahul Gandhi, Says ‘Needs Tuition’ Over Economy Claims In ParliamentIndia Signs ₹445 Crore Tunguska Air Defence Deal To Boost Short-Range ProtectionWill Delimitation Change Impact Of Muslim Voters In Assam Election 2026? | Himanta Biswa SarmaIndia Moves To Secure Military Drones With New “Secure-By-Design” Framework“As if Hardeep Puri is giving money from his pocket…”: OPPN STRONG take on fuel excise move123Photostories8 sky events in April 2026 you can’t miss: From a blazing comet to meteor stormsExclusive – The 50: Rajat Dalal opens up on fallout with Prince Narula, says he no longer calls him ‘brother’; reacts to link-up with Chahat PandeyAkshaye Khanna birthday special:‘Dhurandhar’, ‘Chhaava’, ‘Border’, a look at his best performances5 sacred flowers of Goddess Lakshmi you must grow at home to attract wealth and prosperityHow to make Soy and Mushroom Fried Rice for dinner at home5 famous modern-day princesses, from Sheikha Mahra to Kate MiddletonAlmost 50% of Indians have vitamin B12 deficiency: Top foods for vegetarians and non-vegetarians to boost energy and avoid long-term health risks5 off-road cars designed for extreme conditions5 island destinations to visit in summer, and why they shouldn’t be skipped5 beautiful relationship lessons to learn from Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas123Hot PicksStock Market TodayDonald TrumpIran Strike on IsraelUS Iran WarIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTiger Woods CrashJill BidenH-1B lotteryVanathi SrinivasanMirwaiz Umar FarooqZojila Pass avalancheNoelia CastilloUS travel advisoryAnti-vaccine rowH-1B visa

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

NEW DELHI: A special Delhi court on Friday acquitted former Congress MP Vijay Darda, his son Devendra, ex-coal secretary H C Gupta and others in a coal block allocation case, ending over a decade of trial after finding the evidence “highly insufficient” to prove charges of cheating, conspiracy, or misconduct.The case stemmed from the allocation…

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