August 15, 2026

NEW DELHI: Five Army personnel went missing after a heavy rain-triggered flash flood washed away two shelters in Arunachal Pradesh’s Dibang Valley district, while a major landslide at a road construction site in Upper Subansiri district claimed four lives, officials told news agency PTI on Saturday.Both incidents took place on Friday evening, according to the state emergency operations centre.In Upper Subansiri district, a major landslide struck the Keojaring-Byaching road construction site, burying several people under debris. Four people, Tadu Baki, Taji Rai, Markosh Basumatari and Babul Ali, were reported dead.The body of Babul Ali has been recovered, the district disaster management officer of Upper Subansiri said.Personnel from Nacho Police Station have been deployed for search and recovery operations. Fire and Emergency Services teams are being mobilised from Daporijo, while a State Disaster Response Force team will join the operation.Five Army personnel missing after flash floodIn Dibang Valley district, a flash flood triggered by heavy rainfall swept away two shelters at the 5th Grenadier’s Pasu Pani Army camp on Friday evening.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesSeven Army personnel were swept away in the flash flood, officials said. Two were rescued, while five remain missing.The missing personnel have been identified as Havaldar Upendar and Army personnel Kundan, Vinod, Aditya and Samunda.Two search and rescue teams from the 5th Grenadier have been deployed to locate the missing personnel.Teams from the 58th Battalion of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), 62 RCC of the General Reserve Engineer Force, Arunachal Pradesh Police and local volunteers have also been rushed to the area.An SDRF team from Pasighat is proceeding to Anini to assist in the search and rescue operation.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based Delimitation123PhotostoriesBigg Boss Tamil 10 ‘The Common Man’: From contestants to telecast time, here’s everything you need to knowRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins
NEW DELHI: Five Army personnel went missing after a heavy rain-triggered flash flood washed away two shelters in Arunachal Pradesh’s Dibang Valley district, while a major landslide at a road construction site in Upper Subansiri district claimed four lives, officials told news agency PTI on Saturday.Both incidents took place on Friday evening, according to the state emergency operations centre.In Upper Subansiri district, a major landslide struck the Keojaring-Byaching road construction site, burying several people under debris. Four people, Tadu Baki, Taji Rai, Markosh Basumatari and Babul Ali, were reported dead.The body of Babul Ali has been recovered, the district disaster management officer of Upper Subansiri said.Personnel from Nacho Police Station have been deployed for search and recovery operations. Fire and Emergency Services teams are being mobilised from Daporijo, while a State Disaster Response Force team will join the operation.Five Army personnel missing after flash floodIn Dibang Valley district, a flash flood triggered by heavy rainfall swept away two shelters at the 5th Grenadier’s Pasu Pani Army camp on Friday evening.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesSeven Army personnel were swept away in the flash flood, officials said. Two were rescued, while five remain missing.The missing personnel have been identified as Havaldar Upendar and Army personnel Kundan, Vinod, Aditya and Samunda.Two search and rescue teams from the 5th Grenadier have been deployed to locate the missing personnel.Teams from the 58th Battalion of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), 62 RCC of the General Reserve Engineer Force, Arunachal Pradesh Police and local volunteers have also been rushed to the area.An SDRF team from Pasighat is proceeding to Anini to assist in the search and rescue operation.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based Delimitation123PhotostoriesBigg Boss Tamil 10 ‘The Common Man’: From contestants to telecast time, here’s everything you need to knowRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke


Arunachal Pradesh flash floods: Four killed, five Army personnel missing after landslide

NEW DELHI: Five Army personnel went missing after a heavy rain-triggered flash flood washed away two shelters in Arunachal Pradesh’s Dibang Valley district, while a major landslide at a road construction site in Upper Subansiri district claimed four lives, officials told news agency PTI on Saturday.Both incidents took place on Friday evening, according to the state emergency operations centre.In Upper Subansiri district, a major landslide struck the Keojaring-Byaching road construction site, burying several people under debris. Four people, Tadu Baki, Taji Rai, Markosh Basumatari and Babul Ali, were reported dead.The body of Babul Ali has been recovered, the district disaster management officer of Upper Subansiri said.Personnel from Nacho Police Station have been deployed for search and recovery operations. Fire and Emergency Services teams are being mobilised from Daporijo, while a State Disaster Response Force team will join the operation.

Five Army personnel missing after flash flood

In Dibang Valley district, a flash flood triggered by heavy rainfall swept away two shelters at the 5th Grenadier’s Pasu Pani Army camp on Friday evening.

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CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke speaks to the media alongside CJP chief spokesperson Saurav Das and national spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka (ANI) NEW DELHI: The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) on Saturday announced its plans to launch a statewide campaign to assess the condition of public hospitals in Maharashtra. The organisation’s founder, Abhijeet Dipke, alleged that patients are forced to endure long delays and poor facilities in government-run healthcare institutions.The announcement came as the party expanded its broader push to scrutinise public welfare infrastructure after launching its “School Thik Karo” campaign, which seeks to audit basic amenities in government schools across Maharashtra and eventually nationwide.Addressing reporters during a visit to his native village in Hingoli district, Dipke said the CJP would now focus on healthcare facilities in public hospitals.“We are going to raise health-related issues. When we visit public hospitals, we see people sleeping on the floor. People have to wait for surgeries. For a CT scan, the wait extends to one week,” he alleged.Dipke said the proposed campaign would examine the condition of government hospitals and document deficiencies in infrastructure and access to treatment. He further argued that essential public services have been neglected.The hospital initiative follows the launch of the CJP’s “School Thik Karo” campaign, under which party workers are collecting data on basic facilities in government schools, including drinking water, toilets, benches, windows and overall infrastructure. Dipke has repeatedly argued that the government must improve public institutions that serve ordinary citizens, particularly students and patients.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesHe said the party believes that public well-being facilities, including schools and hospitals, require greater accountability and better utilisation of government funds.During the school campaign launch, Dipke had questioned why basic amenities remained unavailable in many government schools despite decades of public spending, and accused successive governments of neglecting state-run institutions. He has also alleged that poor infrastructure in public facilities disproportionately affects children and low-income families.The CJP convenor said the hospital campaign would similarly highlight issues faced by patients who depend on government healthcare, including overcrowding, delays in surgeries and diagnostic tests, and inadequate infrastructure.The party has said it intends to use findings from both campaigns to press governments for improvements in public education and healthcare infrastructure across Maharashtra.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based Delimitation123PhotostoriesBigg Boss Tamil 10 ‘The Common Man’: From contestants to telecast time, here’s everything you need to knowRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? 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CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke speaks to the media alongside CJP chief spokesperson Saurav Das and national spokesperson Ashutosh Ranka (ANI) NEW DELHI: The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) on Saturday announced its plans to launch a statewide campaign to assess the condition of public hospitals in Maharashtra. The organisation’s founder, Abhijeet Dipke, alleged that patients are forced to endure long delays and poor facilities in government-run healthcare institutions.The announcement came as the party expanded its broader push to scrutinise public welfare infrastructure after launching its “School Thik Karo” campaign, which seeks to audit basic amenities in government schools across Maharashtra and eventually nationwide.Addressing reporters during a visit to his native village in Hingoli district, Dipke said the CJP would now focus on healthcare facilities in public hospitals.“We are going to raise health-related issues. When we visit public hospitals, we see people sleeping on the floor. People have to wait for surgeries. For a CT scan, the wait extends to one week,” he alleged.Dipke said the proposed campaign would examine the condition of government hospitals and document deficiencies in infrastructure and access to treatment. He further argued that essential public services have been neglected.The hospital initiative follows the launch of the CJP’s “School Thik Karo” campaign, under which party workers are collecting data on basic facilities in government schools, including drinking water, toilets, benches, windows and overall infrastructure. Dipke has repeatedly argued that the government must improve public institutions that serve ordinary citizens, particularly students and patients.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesHe said the party believes that public well-being facilities, including schools and hospitals, require greater accountability and better utilisation of government funds.During the school campaign launch, Dipke had questioned why basic amenities remained unavailable in many government schools despite decades of public spending, and accused successive governments of neglecting state-run institutions. He has also alleged that poor infrastructure in public facilities disproportionately affects children and low-income families.The CJP convenor said the hospital campaign would similarly highlight issues faced by patients who depend on government healthcare, including overcrowding, delays in surgeries and diagnostic tests, and inadequate infrastructure.The party has said it intends to use findings from both campaigns to press governments for improvements in public education and healthcare infrastructure across Maharashtra.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based Delimitation123PhotostoriesBigg Boss Tamil 10 ‘The Common Man’: From contestants to telecast time, here’s everything you need to knowRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke

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Target of 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047, 5 new nuclear reactors to be operational within 6-7 years: PM Modi NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced an ambitious expansion of India’s nuclear power programme, setting a target of 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047 and saying five new nuclear reactors will be operationalised during this decade as the country seeks greater energy security and self-reliance.Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the 80th Independence Day, PM Modi said India had taken an important step towards self-reliance in nuclear energy with the 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu attaining first criticality in April this year.PM Modi said nuclear power would be an important component of India’s energy security as demand for electricity rises with the expansion of technologies such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence and data centres. He also referred to the government’s nuclear policy reforms and the SHANTI Act, enacted in December 2025, as part of efforts to expand the sector.“The new world cannot run without energy. Whether they are (semiconductor) chips, AI or data centres, the country needs lots of electricity … That’s why we have already taken strong steps to ensure energy security,” he added.PM Modi said India had set the goal of reaching 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047, with five new reactors expected to become operational in the current decade.India enters second stage of three-stage nuclear programmeThe PFBR at Kalpakkam marks India’s entry into the second stage of its three-stage nuclear power programme, originally conceived by Homi J Bhabha.The 500 MWe reactor, developed and built indigenously at the Kalpakkam Nuclear Complex, attained first criticality on April 6, 2026. It is being built by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited, or BHAVINI, under the Department of Atomic Energy, with technology developed by the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research.The first stage of India’s nuclear programme relies on Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors, or PHWRs, which use natural uranium as fuel and produce plutonium as a byproduct.The second stage uses this plutonium in fast breeder reactors. The PFBR uses uranium-plutonium mixed oxide, or MOX, fuel and is designed to produce more fissile material than it consumes.The third stage of the programme is aimed at using India’s large thorium reserves to produce uranium-233 for nuclear power generation.The PFBR is therefore intended to serve as a bridge between India’s existing uranium-based nuclear programme and its longer-term thorium-based energy strategy.Why PFBR matters for India’s nuclear expansionThe PFBR is a 500 MWe sodium-cooled fast breeder reactor designed to use plutonium-based fuel while breeding additional fissile material.A blanket of uranium-238 around the reactor core can be converted into plutonium-239 through the action of fast neutrons. This allows the reactor to generate electricity while producing additional fuel.The reactor’s technology is particularly relevant to India’s nuclear strategy because the country has relatively limited uranium resources but substantial thorium reserves.The Department of Atomic Energy has said the PFBR will eventually help lay the foundation for the third stage of India’s nuclear programme, in which thorium would be used to produce uranium-233.PM Modi had earlier described the PFBR milestone as a major development in India’s civil nuclear programme.“Today, India takes a defining step in its civil nuclear journey, advancing the second stage of its nuclear programme.”PM Modi had also said, “This advanced reactor, capable of producing more fuel than it consumes, reflects the depth of our scientific capability and the strength of our engineering enterprise. It is a decisive step towards harnessing our vast thorium reserves in the third stage of the programme.”Nuclear power seen as key to meeting rising electricity demandIn his Independence Day address, PM Modi linked India’s nuclear expansion with the country’s rapidly increasing demand for electricity.He pointed to the growing power requirements of semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence and data centres, saying energy security would become increasingly important as India expands its technology and manufacturing sectors.“It is difficult to build a new world. That is why, whether it is a chip, AI, or data centre, we need electricity in large quantity. The new era demands energy.”PM Modi said India had taken steps to strengthen energy security by expanding both nuclear and renewable energy capacity.He said nuclear energy was vital for ensuring a stable supply of electricity while the country simultaneously expands solar, wind and other renewable sources.India targets 500 GW renewable energy by 2030Alongside the nuclear expansion, PM Modi highlighted the growth of India’s renewable energy capacity.He said India’s solar energy capacity had risen from 2 GW in 2014 to 160 GW, while the country had set a target of 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.PM Modi also referred to the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, saying around 50 lakh households had been covered under the rooftop solar programme.Thousands of consumers, he said, were also earning through electricity generated from rooftop solar systems.Beneficiaries under the scheme can receive a subsidy of up to Rs 80,000 per household for installing rooftop solar systems.PM Modi also said India’s railway electrification had expanded sharply, helping reduce diesel consumption and imports.He said India had also started work on a hydrogen train as part of its broader clean-energy transition.SHANTI Act seeks to reshape India’s nuclear power frameworkPM Modi also referred to the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India, or SHANTI Act, enacted in December 2025.The legislation is intended to modernise India’s nuclear legal framework and facilitate greater participation in the nuclear sector under regulatory oversight.The law forms part of the government’s broader effort to expand nuclear power capacity and bring new investment and technology into the sector.The Union Budget 2025-26 had also announced a Nuclear Energy Mission with an allocation of Rs 20,000 crore for the design, development and deployment of Small Modular Reactors.The government has set a target of having at least five indigenously designed small modular reactors operational by 2033.India’s nuclear capacity to expand from 8.78 GWIndia’s installed nuclear power capacity currently stands at around 8.78 GW, according to government data.Nuclear power accounted for about 3.1% of India’s electricity generation in 2024-25, when nuclear plants generated 56,681 million units of electricity.The government has projected that India’s nuclear capacity could reach around 22.38 GW by 2031-32 through the development of indigenous 700 MW reactors and larger reactors being developed through international cooperation.The 100 GW target by 2047 would therefore require a substantial expansion in both the number and scale of nuclear power projects over the next two decades.Five reactors to be operationalised this decadePM Modi said India would operationalise five nuclear reactors during the current decade as part of its push towards greater nuclear capacity.The expansion is expected to involve multiple reactor technologies, including India’s indigenous PHWR designs and advanced reactor technologies.The government is also developing small modular reactor designs, including the 200 MWe Bharat Small Modular Reactor and the 55 MWe SMR-55, as well as other advanced reactor concepts.The expansion is aimed at increasing the contribution of nuclear energy to India’s electricity mix while maintaining the country’s broader clean-energy and net-zero commitments.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesNuclear power and India’s 2070 net-zero targetThe expansion of nuclear power is also linked to India’s commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.Unlike solar and wind power, nuclear reactors can provide continuous electricity and are not dependent on weather conditions. This makes nuclear generation a potential source of firm, low-carbon electricity alongside renewable energy.The government has therefore positioned nuclear power as part of a wider energy mix that includes solar, wind, hydrogen and other clean-energy sources.PM Modi’s announcement of the 100 GW target marks a substantial increase in India’s long-term nuclear ambitions and places nuclear power at the centre of the country’s energy security strategy as it works towards the Viksit Bharat 2047 goal.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based Delimitation123PhotostoriesBigg Boss Tamil 10 ‘The Common Man’: From contestants to telecast time, here’s everything you need to knowRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke

Target of 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047, 5 new nuclear reactors to be operational within 6-7 years: PM Modi NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced an ambitious expansion of India’s nuclear power programme, setting a target of 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047 and saying five new nuclear reactors will be operationalised during this decade as the country seeks greater energy security and self-reliance.Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the 80th Independence Day, PM Modi said India had taken an important step towards self-reliance in nuclear energy with the 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu attaining first criticality in April this year.PM Modi said nuclear power would be an important component of India’s energy security as demand for electricity rises with the expansion of technologies such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence and data centres. He also referred to the government’s nuclear policy reforms and the SHANTI Act, enacted in December 2025, as part of efforts to expand the sector.“The new world cannot run without energy. Whether they are (semiconductor) chips, AI or data centres, the country needs lots of electricity … That’s why we have already taken strong steps to ensure energy security,” he added.PM Modi said India had set the goal of reaching 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047, with five new reactors expected to become operational in the current decade.India enters second stage of three-stage nuclear programmeThe PFBR at Kalpakkam marks India’s entry into the second stage of its three-stage nuclear power programme, originally conceived by Homi J Bhabha.The 500 MWe reactor, developed and built indigenously at the Kalpakkam Nuclear Complex, attained first criticality on April 6, 2026. It is being built by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited, or BHAVINI, under the Department of Atomic Energy, with technology developed by the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research.The first stage of India’s nuclear programme relies on Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors, or PHWRs, which use natural uranium as fuel and produce plutonium as a byproduct.The second stage uses this plutonium in fast breeder reactors. The PFBR uses uranium-plutonium mixed oxide, or MOX, fuel and is designed to produce more fissile material than it consumes.The third stage of the programme is aimed at using India’s large thorium reserves to produce uranium-233 for nuclear power generation.The PFBR is therefore intended to serve as a bridge between India’s existing uranium-based nuclear programme and its longer-term thorium-based energy strategy.Why PFBR matters for India’s nuclear expansionThe PFBR is a 500 MWe sodium-cooled fast breeder reactor designed to use plutonium-based fuel while breeding additional fissile material.A blanket of uranium-238 around the reactor core can be converted into plutonium-239 through the action of fast neutrons. This allows the reactor to generate electricity while producing additional fuel.The reactor’s technology is particularly relevant to India’s nuclear strategy because the country has relatively limited uranium resources but substantial thorium reserves.The Department of Atomic Energy has said the PFBR will eventually help lay the foundation for the third stage of India’s nuclear programme, in which thorium would be used to produce uranium-233.PM Modi had earlier described the PFBR milestone as a major development in India’s civil nuclear programme.“Today, India takes a defining step in its civil nuclear journey, advancing the second stage of its nuclear programme.”PM Modi had also said, “This advanced reactor, capable of producing more fuel than it consumes, reflects the depth of our scientific capability and the strength of our engineering enterprise. It is a decisive step towards harnessing our vast thorium reserves in the third stage of the programme.”Nuclear power seen as key to meeting rising electricity demandIn his Independence Day address, PM Modi linked India’s nuclear expansion with the country’s rapidly increasing demand for electricity.He pointed to the growing power requirements of semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence and data centres, saying energy security would become increasingly important as India expands its technology and manufacturing sectors.“It is difficult to build a new world. That is why, whether it is a chip, AI, or data centre, we need electricity in large quantity. The new era demands energy.”PM Modi said India had taken steps to strengthen energy security by expanding both nuclear and renewable energy capacity.He said nuclear energy was vital for ensuring a stable supply of electricity while the country simultaneously expands solar, wind and other renewable sources.India targets 500 GW renewable energy by 2030Alongside the nuclear expansion, PM Modi highlighted the growth of India’s renewable energy capacity.He said India’s solar energy capacity had risen from 2 GW in 2014 to 160 GW, while the country had set a target of 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.PM Modi also referred to the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, saying around 50 lakh households had been covered under the rooftop solar programme.Thousands of consumers, he said, were also earning through electricity generated from rooftop solar systems.Beneficiaries under the scheme can receive a subsidy of up to Rs 80,000 per household for installing rooftop solar systems.PM Modi also said India’s railway electrification had expanded sharply, helping reduce diesel consumption and imports.He said India had also started work on a hydrogen train as part of its broader clean-energy transition.SHANTI Act seeks to reshape India’s nuclear power frameworkPM Modi also referred to the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India, or SHANTI Act, enacted in December 2025.The legislation is intended to modernise India’s nuclear legal framework and facilitate greater participation in the nuclear sector under regulatory oversight.The law forms part of the government’s broader effort to expand nuclear power capacity and bring new investment and technology into the sector.The Union Budget 2025-26 had also announced a Nuclear Energy Mission with an allocation of Rs 20,000 crore for the design, development and deployment of Small Modular Reactors.The government has set a target of having at least five indigenously designed small modular reactors operational by 2033.India’s nuclear capacity to expand from 8.78 GWIndia’s installed nuclear power capacity currently stands at around 8.78 GW, according to government data.Nuclear power accounted for about 3.1% of India’s electricity generation in 2024-25, when nuclear plants generated 56,681 million units of electricity.The government has projected that India’s nuclear capacity could reach around 22.38 GW by 2031-32 through the development of indigenous 700 MW reactors and larger reactors being developed through international cooperation.The 100 GW target by 2047 would therefore require a substantial expansion in both the number and scale of nuclear power projects over the next two decades.Five reactors to be operationalised this decadePM Modi said India would operationalise five nuclear reactors during the current decade as part of its push towards greater nuclear capacity.The expansion is expected to involve multiple reactor technologies, including India’s indigenous PHWR designs and advanced reactor technologies.The government is also developing small modular reactor designs, including the 200 MWe Bharat Small Modular Reactor and the 55 MWe SMR-55, as well as other advanced reactor concepts.The expansion is aimed at increasing the contribution of nuclear energy to India’s electricity mix while maintaining the country’s broader clean-energy and net-zero commitments.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesNuclear power and India’s 2070 net-zero targetThe expansion of nuclear power is also linked to India’s commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.Unlike solar and wind power, nuclear reactors can provide continuous electricity and are not dependent on weather conditions. This makes nuclear generation a potential source of firm, low-carbon electricity alongside renewable energy.The government has therefore positioned nuclear power as part of a wider energy mix that includes solar, wind, hydrogen and other clean-energy sources.PM Modi’s announcement of the 100 GW target marks a substantial increase in India’s long-term nuclear ambitions and places nuclear power at the centre of the country’s energy security strategy as it works towards the Viksit Bharat 2047 goal.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based Delimitation123PhotostoriesBigg Boss Tamil 10 ‘The Common Man’: From contestants to telecast time, here’s everything you need to knowRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke

Vamsikrishna 0
Sonia Gandhi’s Vande Mataram row: BJP alleges ‘hatred’, Congress calls claim false NEW DELHI: A political row erupted on Saturday over the rendition of the full version of Vande Mataram at the Congress’s Independence Day event, with the BJP accusing grand old party’s former chief Sonia Gandhi of objecting to the national song and the opposition party rejecting the allegation.The BJP shared video footage from the Congress’s event at Indira Bhawan and alleged that Sonia questioned party workers while Vande Mataram was being played. Congress, however, said there was no attempt to stop the full rendition and that Sonia was merely asking for a chair for party president Mallikarjun Kharge, who had been standing for some time.BJP spokesperson Gopal Krishna Agarwal, sharing the footage on X, accused the Congress of showing disrespect towards the national song. “The scene that has come to light today on Independence Day is utterly shameful.”He said, “Sonia Gandhi’s objection during the rendition of India’s national song, ‘Vande Mataram’, and her questioning of Congress workers as to why it was being played exposes the Congress party’s mindset.”Agarwal said Vande Mataram represented more than a patriotic song, calling it a symbol of India’s freedom struggle and national consciousness.”Is this the same Congress that lays claim to the legacy of the nation’s freedom struggle?” he asked.He also alleged that the Congress’s alleged approach towards the national song reflected the party’s “Emergency mindset”.”The people of the country have rejected this mindset and will continue to reject it,” he said.Congress rejects BJP’s allegationThe Congress dismissed the BJP’s claim and maintained that the full version of Vande Mataram was sung at its Independence Day programme.Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh cited the party’s historical association with the song and referred to a 1937 meeting of the Congress Working Committee in Calcutta, attended by several prominent leaders of the freedom movement.”On October 28, 1937, in Calcutta, a meeting of the Congress Working Committee was held in the presence of Mahatma Gandhi, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Jawaharlal Nehru, Govind Ballabh Pant and C Rajagopalachari, and on the advice of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, they decided that the initial stanzas of Vande Mataram would be sung at the Congress sessions,” Ramesh said.Ramesh said Tagore had advised Nehru and Bose that the opening portions of the song should be used at Congress gatherings.”Tagore gave the advice to Nehru and Bose that the first few paragraphs of Vande Mataram should be used, he said.”We have been singing those lines in every session since them, our Seva Dal sings it, our workers sing it, there is no controversy over that,” Ramesh said.”He stressed that the complete version was sung at Saturday’s event and said the issue had already been debated extensively in Parliament.”This was discussed in Parliament for 16 hours. We put forward our views. I narrated the whole history around it which the prime minister and the home minister did not know. I informed MPs of the context in which the Vande Mataram decision was taken,” Ramesh said.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines”But today, at Indira Bhawan, the full version was sung, there is no question of a controversy over it,” he added.Asked specifically about the BJP’s allegation that Sonia had tried to stop the full rendition, Ramesh offered a different explanation for what was seen in the video.”As the Congress president was standing for a long time, Soniaji was asking for a chair for him,” he said.BJP escalates attackBJP spokesperson R P Singh also targeted Sonia over the controversy, questioning her alleged opposition to the national song.”Why does Antonio Maino Ji hate Vande Mataram so much? When Vande Mataram was being sung, Antonio Maino Ji reportedly became so angry that she allegedly got agitated and asked her party workers to stop it. Why such hatred for Vande Mataram?”The row over Vande Mataram comes shortly after Parliament passed legislation dealing with disrespect towards the national song. The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, was passed by the Lok Sabha through a voice vote on July 30, a day after the Rajya Sabha cleared it.The legislation grants Vande Mataram a status on par with the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based Delimitation123PhotostoriesBigg Boss Tamil 10 ‘The Common Man’: From contestants to telecast time, here’s everything you need to knowRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke

Sonia Gandhi’s Vande Mataram row: BJP alleges ‘hatred’, Congress calls claim false NEW DELHI: A political row erupted on Saturday over the rendition of the full version of Vande Mataram at the Congress’s Independence Day event, with the BJP accusing grand old party’s former chief Sonia Gandhi of objecting to the national song and the opposition party rejecting the allegation.The BJP shared video footage from the Congress’s event at Indira Bhawan and alleged that Sonia questioned party workers while Vande Mataram was being played. Congress, however, said there was no attempt to stop the full rendition and that Sonia was merely asking for a chair for party president Mallikarjun Kharge, who had been standing for some time.BJP spokesperson Gopal Krishna Agarwal, sharing the footage on X, accused the Congress of showing disrespect towards the national song. “The scene that has come to light today on Independence Day is utterly shameful.”He said, “Sonia Gandhi’s objection during the rendition of India’s national song, ‘Vande Mataram’, and her questioning of Congress workers as to why it was being played exposes the Congress party’s mindset.”Agarwal said Vande Mataram represented more than a patriotic song, calling it a symbol of India’s freedom struggle and national consciousness.”Is this the same Congress that lays claim to the legacy of the nation’s freedom struggle?” he asked.He also alleged that the Congress’s alleged approach towards the national song reflected the party’s “Emergency mindset”.”The people of the country have rejected this mindset and will continue to reject it,” he said.Congress rejects BJP’s allegationThe Congress dismissed the BJP’s claim and maintained that the full version of Vande Mataram was sung at its Independence Day programme.Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh cited the party’s historical association with the song and referred to a 1937 meeting of the Congress Working Committee in Calcutta, attended by several prominent leaders of the freedom movement.”On October 28, 1937, in Calcutta, a meeting of the Congress Working Committee was held in the presence of Mahatma Gandhi, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Jawaharlal Nehru, Govind Ballabh Pant and C Rajagopalachari, and on the advice of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, they decided that the initial stanzas of Vande Mataram would be sung at the Congress sessions,” Ramesh said.Ramesh said Tagore had advised Nehru and Bose that the opening portions of the song should be used at Congress gatherings.”Tagore gave the advice to Nehru and Bose that the first few paragraphs of Vande Mataram should be used, he said.”We have been singing those lines in every session since them, our Seva Dal sings it, our workers sing it, there is no controversy over that,” Ramesh said.”He stressed that the complete version was sung at Saturday’s event and said the issue had already been debated extensively in Parliament.”This was discussed in Parliament for 16 hours. We put forward our views. I narrated the whole history around it which the prime minister and the home minister did not know. I informed MPs of the context in which the Vande Mataram decision was taken,” Ramesh said.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines”But today, at Indira Bhawan, the full version was sung, there is no question of a controversy over it,” he added.Asked specifically about the BJP’s allegation that Sonia had tried to stop the full rendition, Ramesh offered a different explanation for what was seen in the video.”As the Congress president was standing for a long time, Soniaji was asking for a chair for him,” he said.BJP escalates attackBJP spokesperson R P Singh also targeted Sonia over the controversy, questioning her alleged opposition to the national song.”Why does Antonio Maino Ji hate Vande Mataram so much? When Vande Mataram was being sung, Antonio Maino Ji reportedly became so angry that she allegedly got agitated and asked her party workers to stop it. Why such hatred for Vande Mataram?”The row over Vande Mataram comes shortly after Parliament passed legislation dealing with disrespect towards the national song. The Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, was passed by the Lok Sabha through a voice vote on July 30, a day after the Rajya Sabha cleared it.The legislation grants Vande Mataram a status on par with the national anthem, Jana Gana Mana.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based Delimitation123PhotostoriesBigg Boss Tamil 10 ‘The Common Man’: From contestants to telecast time, here’s everything you need to knowRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke

Vamsikrishna 0
India celebrates 80th Independence day NEW DELHI: From Washington and Jerusalem to Singapore and Kathmandu, leaders and institutions across the world extended greetings to India on Saturday as the country marked its 80th Independence Day, highlighting the strength of bilateral ties and the breadth of cooperation with New Delhi.IsraelIsrael’s president Isaac Herzog congratulated President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of India.“On behalf of the State of Israel, I warmly congratulate President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the wonderful people of India on your 80th Independence Day! May we continue to strengthen the beautiful friendship between Israel and India,” Herzog wrote on X. He also posted his wishes in Hindi.The message came after Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu reviewed progress in the India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership and discussed the situation in West Asia during a recent phone call.United StatesUS secretary of state Marco Rubio said the India-US relationship continues to grow and is “stronger than ever”.“On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm congratulations to the people of India on their Independence Day. Thanks to the personal relationship between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi, the U.S.-India relationship continues to grow and is stronger than ever,” Rubio said.He highlighted cooperation in defence, energy security, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, space cooperation and commerce.“From defence and energy security to critical minerals, artificial intelligence, space cooperation, and commerce, our collaboration is making both of our nations, and the broader Indian Ocean region, safer, stronger, and more prosperous,” Rubio said. He added: “The United States looks forward to the future our two countries will build together.”SingaporeSingapore president Tharman Shanmugaratnam congratulated India on the “joyous occasion” and underscored the countries’ Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.“On behalf of the people of Singapore, I extend my warmest congratulations to Your Excellency and the people of India on the joyous occasion of India’s 80th Independence Day,” Tharman wrote in a letter addressed to President Murmu.He also pointed to close people-to-people ties and expanding cooperation in skills development, digitalisation, sustainability and advanced manufacturing.NepalNepal prime minister Balendra ‘Balen’ Shah extended greetings and best wishes to PM Modi, the Government of India and the people of India.“On the occasion of India’s 80th Independence Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to PM Narendra Modi and the friendly people and Government of India,” the Office of the Prime Minister of Nepal said in a post on X.MaldivesMaldives president Mohamed Muizzu also joined the global chorus of greetings, extending his “warmest greetings” to the President and PM Modi on the country’s 80th Independence Day. Muizzu said eight decades of independence reflected India’s “aspirations, resilience and enduring spirit” and reaffirmed Male’s commitment to advancing the close partnership between the two countries, built on “mutual respect, shared prosperity and enduring friendship”.Additionally, the former president, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih also greeted India, writing, “Warm felicitations to President Murmu, PM Narendra Modi, and our dear friends, the people of India, on the occasion of India’s Independence Day.” He described India’s journey since 1947 as an inspiration and said, “May the close ties of cooperation and friendship that exist between Maldives-India grow ever stronger.”Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesLatviaLatvia’s ministry of foreign affairs conveyed its greetings, saying: “Happy Independence Day to India from Latvia! Wishing India continued progress, unity, and prosperity.”AustraliaAustralia’s high commissioner to India Philip Green joined the celebrations, sharing visuals of the Australian High Commission illuminated in the colours of the Indian Tricolour.“The High Commission is glowing in saffron, white & green, with our team proudly dressing in the colours of the Indian tricolour,” Green said. “From all of us, a very Happy Independence Day to Indians across the globe,” he added.IrelandThe Irish embassy in India also extended greetings, saying, “Happy 80th Independence Day, India! Warm wishes from the Embassy & CG Mumbai to Indians everywhere.”Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based Delimitation123PhotostoriesBigg Boss Tamil 10 ‘The Common Man’: From contestants to telecast time, here’s everything you need to knowRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke

India celebrates 80th Independence day NEW DELHI: From Washington and Jerusalem to Singapore and Kathmandu, leaders and institutions across the world extended greetings to India on Saturday as the country marked its 80th Independence Day, highlighting the strength of bilateral ties and the breadth of cooperation with New Delhi.IsraelIsrael’s president Isaac Herzog congratulated President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of India.“On behalf of the State of Israel, I warmly congratulate President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the wonderful people of India on your 80th Independence Day! May we continue to strengthen the beautiful friendship between Israel and India,” Herzog wrote on X. He also posted his wishes in Hindi.The message came after Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu reviewed progress in the India-Israel Special Strategic Partnership and discussed the situation in West Asia during a recent phone call.United StatesUS secretary of state Marco Rubio said the India-US relationship continues to grow and is “stronger than ever”.“On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm congratulations to the people of India on their Independence Day. Thanks to the personal relationship between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi, the U.S.-India relationship continues to grow and is stronger than ever,” Rubio said.He highlighted cooperation in defence, energy security, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, space cooperation and commerce.“From defence and energy security to critical minerals, artificial intelligence, space cooperation, and commerce, our collaboration is making both of our nations, and the broader Indian Ocean region, safer, stronger, and more prosperous,” Rubio said. He added: “The United States looks forward to the future our two countries will build together.”SingaporeSingapore president Tharman Shanmugaratnam congratulated India on the “joyous occasion” and underscored the countries’ Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.“On behalf of the people of Singapore, I extend my warmest congratulations to Your Excellency and the people of India on the joyous occasion of India’s 80th Independence Day,” Tharman wrote in a letter addressed to President Murmu.He also pointed to close people-to-people ties and expanding cooperation in skills development, digitalisation, sustainability and advanced manufacturing.NepalNepal prime minister Balendra ‘Balen’ Shah extended greetings and best wishes to PM Modi, the Government of India and the people of India.“On the occasion of India’s 80th Independence Day, I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to PM Narendra Modi and the friendly people and Government of India,” the Office of the Prime Minister of Nepal said in a post on X.MaldivesMaldives president Mohamed Muizzu also joined the global chorus of greetings, extending his “warmest greetings” to the President and PM Modi on the country’s 80th Independence Day. Muizzu said eight decades of independence reflected India’s “aspirations, resilience and enduring spirit” and reaffirmed Male’s commitment to advancing the close partnership between the two countries, built on “mutual respect, shared prosperity and enduring friendship”.Additionally, the former president, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih also greeted India, writing, “Warm felicitations to President Murmu, PM Narendra Modi, and our dear friends, the people of India, on the occasion of India’s Independence Day.” He described India’s journey since 1947 as an inspiration and said, “May the close ties of cooperation and friendship that exist between Maldives-India grow ever stronger.”Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesLatviaLatvia’s ministry of foreign affairs conveyed its greetings, saying: “Happy Independence Day to India from Latvia! Wishing India continued progress, unity, and prosperity.”AustraliaAustralia’s high commissioner to India Philip Green joined the celebrations, sharing visuals of the Australian High Commission illuminated in the colours of the Indian Tricolour.“The High Commission is glowing in saffron, white & green, with our team proudly dressing in the colours of the Indian tricolour,” Green said. “From all of us, a very Happy Independence Day to Indians across the globe,” he added.IrelandThe Irish embassy in India also extended greetings, saying, “Happy 80th Independence Day, India! Warm wishes from the Embassy & CG Mumbai to Indians everywhere.”Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgeRahul Gandhi, Kharge Skip Red Fort Event Again As Congress Flags Threats To Democratic InstitutionsPM Modi From Red Fort: India’s Self-Reliance Push, Semiconductor Boom And Manufacturing SurgePM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based Delimitation123PhotostoriesBigg Boss Tamil 10 ‘The Common Man’: From contestants to telecast time, here’s everything you need to knowRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? 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