May 12, 2026

NEW DELHI: Thousands of postgraduate medical aspirants appearing for the May 2026 Institute of National Importance Combined Entrance Test (INI-CET) have flagged delayed admit card access and allotment of exam centres hundreds of kilometres away, barely a week before the May 16 examination.The AIIMS Delhi-conducted exam released admit cards around 3 pm on May 9, but candidates alleged the website slowed down or crashed soon after, preventing many from downloading hall tickets for nearly 9-10 hours. Several students said they could access the portal only after midnight, triggering a flood of complaints on social media.“You charge ₹4,000 for the application form and the website still crashed for hours,” tweeted Dr Aman Kumar (@manish__aman).According to AIIMS officials, heavy traffic from simultaneous logins temporarily slowed the portal. “If one lakh people access any website at the same time, it can slow down or crash. This happens with many exams, including NEET. The site is now working fine and candidates have been able to download admit cards,” officials said.Candidates also flagged allotment of distant exam centres. Aspirants from large states such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan said they were allotted centres 500-800 km away because INI-CET collected only state-wise, not city-wise, preferences during registration.An Agra-based candidate said she was allotted Varanasi, around 650 km away, while a Mumbai aspirant claimed she received Nanded as her centre, increasing travel costs and logistical difficulties. Students said travelling within states like UP and Rajasthan itself can take 12-24 hours, while the seven-day gap between admit card release and the exam leaves little time for confirmed train or flight bookings.“There are hundreds of such cases,” a candidate said, urging AIIMS to review the centre allocation process.On complaints regarding distant centres, AIIMS officials said allotments depend on seat availability and preference patterns, adding that candidates are asked to fill state-wise rather than city-wise preferences to prevent possible malpractice in centre allocation. “The effort is always to allot the closest possible centre, but in large states such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Maharashtra, some candidates may still get centres 500-800 km away if nearby seats are already filled,” officials said.Dr Naval K. Vikram, Associate Dean (Examinations) at AIIMS Delhi, said around 95,000 candidates had received either their first or second preferred state and over one lakh candidates are appearing for the exam this year. Nearly 96,000 admit cards had already been downloaded till Sunday, he said.INI-CET is conducted twice a year, in May and November, for admission to postgraduate courses at AIIMS and other Institutes of National Importance across the country.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 MediaVideosFormer TMC Minister Sujit Bose Arrested By ED In Municipality Recruitment ‘Scam’PM Modi Slams Destination Weddings Abroad, Urges Indians To Avoid Foreign Travel’Voted For Whistle’: MDMK Chief Vaiko’s House Helps’ Meeting With CM Vijay Goes ViralRahul Slams PM Modi’s Crisis Appeal | NIA Probes Bengaluru Security Scare IntensifyTMC Leaders Turn On I-PAC After Bengal Poll Rout, Raise Explosive Claims Against FirmAfter PM Modi’s ‘Save Oil’ Appeal, Rajnath Singh Chairs Key Energy Security Review Meeting’Deeply Shocking’: TVK Ally Questions Vijay Over Vande Mataram Priority At Oath CeremonyTVK Blames Governor’s Office As Tamil Anthem Row Explodes After Vijay’s Oath CeremonySC Asks Mamata To File Fresh Pleas Regarding Victory Margin Being Less Than SIR DeletionsCM Vijay Meets MK Stalin Amid Treasury Row, Fuels Buzz Over Tamil Nadu’s Political Reset123Photostories5 healthiest ways to eat Dates for better blood sugar controlIs hantavirus the next COVID? WHO director-general flags key pointers10 baby boy names inspired by the galaxyMorning affirmation at 5 AM: One small shift that changes everythingGold price inflation: Trending alternatives to traditional gold jewellery in 2026Ripe vs Raw Papaya: Which has more nutrition and 5 ways to consume them during summerWhy Kumar Vishwas doesn’t keep these 2 things in his kitchen and shares his Aloo Tamatar Sabzi recipe10 wise quotes by Sudha Murty on love, life and marriageThese 10 daily habits could be the real reason you feel tired, stuck, and brokeAishwarya to Tara: Indian celebrities expected to shine at Cannes Film Festival 2026123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultModi on buying goldOil prices todayPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingRCBYesterday Match ResultIPL Points TableUS Iran warTilak VarmaChandranath Rath MurderIPL Orange Cap 2026AIADMK splitPM Modi WFHPBKS vs DC Match Preview

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins
NEW DELHI: Thousands of postgraduate medical aspirants appearing for the May 2026 Institute of National Importance Combined Entrance Test (INI-CET) have flagged delayed admit card access and allotment of exam centres hundreds of kilometres away, barely a week before the May 16 examination.The AIIMS Delhi-conducted exam released admit cards around 3 pm on May 9, but candidates alleged the website slowed down or crashed soon after, preventing many from downloading hall tickets for nearly 9-10 hours. Several students said they could access the portal only after midnight, triggering a flood of complaints on social media.“You charge ₹4,000 for the application form and the website still crashed for hours,” tweeted Dr Aman Kumar (@manish__aman).According to AIIMS officials, heavy traffic from simultaneous logins temporarily slowed the portal. “If one lakh people access any website at the same time, it can slow down or crash. This happens with many exams, including NEET. The site is now working fine and candidates have been able to download admit cards,” officials said.Candidates also flagged allotment of distant exam centres. Aspirants from large states such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan said they were allotted centres 500-800 km away because INI-CET collected only state-wise, not city-wise, preferences during registration.An Agra-based candidate said she was allotted Varanasi, around 650 km away, while a Mumbai aspirant claimed she received Nanded as her centre, increasing travel costs and logistical difficulties. Students said travelling within states like UP and Rajasthan itself can take 12-24 hours, while the seven-day gap between admit card release and the exam leaves little time for confirmed train or flight bookings.“There are hundreds of such cases,” a candidate said, urging AIIMS to review the centre allocation process.On complaints regarding distant centres, AIIMS officials said allotments depend on seat availability and preference patterns, adding that candidates are asked to fill state-wise rather than city-wise preferences to prevent possible malpractice in centre allocation. “The effort is always to allot the closest possible centre, but in large states such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Maharashtra, some candidates may still get centres 500-800 km away if nearby seats are already filled,” officials said.Dr Naval K. Vikram, Associate Dean (Examinations) at AIIMS Delhi, said around 95,000 candidates had received either their first or second preferred state and over one lakh candidates are appearing for the exam this year. Nearly 96,000 admit cards had already been downloaded till Sunday, he said.INI-CET is conducted twice a year, in May and November, for admission to postgraduate courses at AIIMS and other Institutes of National Importance across the country.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 MediaVideosFormer TMC Minister Sujit Bose Arrested By ED In Municipality Recruitment ‘Scam’PM Modi Slams Destination Weddings Abroad, Urges Indians To Avoid Foreign Travel’Voted For Whistle’: MDMK Chief Vaiko’s House Helps’ Meeting With CM Vijay Goes ViralRahul Slams PM Modi’s Crisis Appeal | NIA Probes Bengaluru Security Scare IntensifyTMC Leaders Turn On I-PAC After Bengal Poll Rout, Raise Explosive Claims Against FirmAfter PM Modi’s ‘Save Oil’ Appeal, Rajnath Singh Chairs Key Energy Security Review Meeting’Deeply Shocking’: TVK Ally Questions Vijay Over Vande Mataram Priority At Oath CeremonyTVK Blames Governor’s Office As Tamil Anthem Row Explodes After Vijay’s Oath CeremonySC Asks Mamata To File Fresh Pleas Regarding Victory Margin Being Less Than SIR DeletionsCM Vijay Meets MK Stalin Amid Treasury Row, Fuels Buzz Over Tamil Nadu’s Political Reset123Photostories5 healthiest ways to eat Dates for better blood sugar controlIs hantavirus the next COVID? WHO director-general flags key pointers10 baby boy names inspired by the galaxyMorning affirmation at 5 AM: One small shift that changes everythingGold price inflation: Trending alternatives to traditional gold jewellery in 2026Ripe vs Raw Papaya: Which has more nutrition and 5 ways to consume them during summerWhy Kumar Vishwas doesn’t keep these 2 things in his kitchen and shares his Aloo Tamatar Sabzi recipe10 wise quotes by Sudha Murty on love, life and marriageThese 10 daily habits could be the real reason you feel tired, stuck, and brokeAishwarya to Tara: Indian celebrities expected to shine at Cannes Film Festival 2026123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultModi on buying goldOil prices todayPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingRCBYesterday Match ResultIPL Points TableUS Iran warTilak VarmaChandranath Rath MurderIPL Orange Cap 2026AIADMK splitPM Modi WFHPBKS vs DC Match Preview


INICET aspirants flag portal crash, far-off exam centres

NEW DELHI: Thousands of postgraduate medical aspirants appearing for the May 2026 Institute of National Importance Combined Entrance Test (INI-CET) have flagged delayed admit card access and allotment of exam centres hundreds of kilometres away, barely a week before the May 16 examination.The AIIMS Delhi-conducted exam released admit cards around 3 pm on May 9, but candidates alleged the website slowed down or crashed soon after, preventing many from downloading hall tickets for nearly 9-10 hours. Several students said they could access the portal only after midnight, triggering a flood of complaints on social media.“You charge ₹4,000 for the application form and the website still crashed for hours,” tweeted Dr Aman Kumar (@manish__aman).According to AIIMS officials, heavy traffic from simultaneous logins temporarily slowed the portal. “If one lakh people access any website at the same time, it can slow down or crash. This happens with many exams, including NEET. The site is now working fine and candidates have been able to download admit cards,” officials said.Candidates also flagged allotment of distant exam centres. Aspirants from large states such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan said they were allotted centres 500-800 km away because INI-CET collected only state-wise, not city-wise, preferences during registration.An Agra-based candidate said she was allotted Varanasi, around 650 km away, while a Mumbai aspirant claimed she received Nanded as her centre, increasing travel costs and logistical difficulties. Students said travelling within states like UP and Rajasthan itself can take 12-24 hours, while the seven-day gap between admit card release and the exam leaves little time for confirmed train or flight bookings.“There are hundreds of such cases,” a candidate said, urging AIIMS to review the centre allocation process.On complaints regarding distant centres, AIIMS officials said allotments depend on seat availability and preference patterns, adding that candidates are asked to fill state-wise rather than city-wise preferences to prevent possible malpractice in centre allocation. “The effort is always to allot the closest possible centre, but in large states such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Maharashtra, some candidates may still get centres 500-800 km away if nearby seats are already filled,” officials said.Dr Naval K. Vikram, Associate Dean (Examinations) at AIIMS Delhi, said around 95,000 candidates had received either their first or second preferred state and over one lakh candidates are appearing for the exam this year. Nearly 96,000 admit cards had already been downloaded till Sunday, he said.INI-CET is conducted twice a year, in May and November, for admission to postgraduate courses at AIIMS and other Institutes of National Importance across the country.



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Iron-rich rice, protein wheat and fortified millets part of push to tackle India’s hidden hungerNEW DELHI: With nearly 67% of Indian children and more than half of women suffering from anaemia, Indian agricultural scientists have developed 203 biofortified crop varieties enriched with iron, zinc, protein and vitamins in an attempt to fight malnutrition through everyday food staples.The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), in a new report released this year, said the nutrient-rich varieties developed between 2014 and 2025 include iron-rich rice, protein-rich wheat, zinc-enriched maize and fortified millets aimed at improving nutrition without requiring people to change food habits.According to figures cited in the report, 67.1% of children aged 6-59 months and over 57% women aged 15-49 years in India are anaemic, while the country continues to face a serious burden of malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. The report said India also faces widespread “hidden hunger” caused by deficiencies of essential micronutrients such as iron and zinc.The publication, Biofortified Crop Varieties: Sustainable Way to Alleviate Malnutrition, states that the crops were developed through conventional and molecular breeding methods to naturally increase nutrients such as iron, zinc, calcium, protein and vitamin-A.ICAR said India has so far developed 70 biofortified wheat varieties, 43 maize varieties, 18 pearl millet varieties and 16 rice varieties, along with nutrient-rich pulses, oilseeds, vegetables and fruits.The push for nutrient-rich crops comes amid the launch of the SEHAT (Science Excellence for Health through Agricultural Transformation) mission by Union health minister J.P. Nadda and Union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, with ICMR and ICAR seeking to link agriculture with nutrition and disease prevention.The report argues that biofortified crops could offer a low-cost and sustainable alternative to supplements and food fortification programmes because nutrients are delivered through foods people consume daily.ICAR director general M.L. Jat said dietary risks now account for 54.6% of India’s disease burden and stressed the need to make the country’s agri-food system more nutrition-sensitive.Union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said India had achieved record foodgrain production of 357.7 million tonnes in 2024-25, but added that improving nutritional quality was equally important for food security.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 MediaVideosFormer TMC Minister Sujit Bose Arrested By ED In Municipality Recruitment ‘Scam’PM Modi Slams Destination Weddings Abroad, Urges Indians To Avoid Foreign Travel’Voted For Whistle’: MDMK Chief Vaiko’s House Helps’ Meeting With CM Vijay Goes ViralRahul Slams PM Modi’s Crisis Appeal | NIA Probes Bengaluru Security Scare IntensifyTMC Leaders Turn On I-PAC After Bengal Poll Rout, Raise Explosive Claims Against FirmAfter PM Modi’s ‘Save Oil’ Appeal, Rajnath Singh Chairs Key Energy Security Review Meeting’Deeply Shocking’: TVK Ally Questions Vijay Over Vande Mataram Priority At Oath CeremonyTVK Blames Governor’s Office As Tamil Anthem Row Explodes After Vijay’s Oath CeremonySC Asks Mamata To File Fresh Pleas Regarding Victory Margin Being Less Than SIR DeletionsCM Vijay Meets MK Stalin Amid Treasury Row, Fuels Buzz Over Tamil Nadu’s Political Reset123PhotostoriesIs hantavirus the next COVID? WHO director-general flags key pointers10 baby boy names inspired by the galaxyMorning affirmation at 5 AM: One small shift that changes everythingGold price inflation: Trending alternatives to traditional gold jewellery in 2026Ripe vs Raw Papaya: Which has more nutrition and 5 ways to consume them during summerWhy Kumar Vishwas doesn’t keep these 2 things in his kitchen and shares his Aloo Tamatar Sabzi recipe10 wise quotes by Sudha Murty on love, life and marriageThese 10 daily habits could be the real reason you feel tired, stuck, and brokeAishwarya to Tara: Indian celebrities expected to shine at Cannes Film Festival 20265 stunning flowering plants that can cause Hay Fever123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultModi on buying goldOil prices todayPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingRCBYesterday Match ResultIPL Points TableUS Iran warTilak VarmaChandranath Rath MurderIPL Orange Cap 2026AIADMK splitPM Modi WFHPBKS vs DC Match Preview

Iron-rich rice, protein wheat and fortified millets part of push to tackle India’s hidden hungerNEW DELHI: With nearly 67% of Indian children and more than half of women suffering from anaemia, Indian agricultural scientists have developed 203 biofortified crop varieties enriched with iron, zinc, protein and vitamins in an attempt to fight malnutrition through everyday food staples.The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), in a new report released this year, said the nutrient-rich varieties developed between 2014 and 2025 include iron-rich rice, protein-rich wheat, zinc-enriched maize and fortified millets aimed at improving nutrition without requiring people to change food habits.According to figures cited in the report, 67.1% of children aged 6-59 months and over 57% women aged 15-49 years in India are anaemic, while the country continues to face a serious burden of malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. The report said India also faces widespread “hidden hunger” caused by deficiencies of essential micronutrients such as iron and zinc.The publication, Biofortified Crop Varieties: Sustainable Way to Alleviate Malnutrition, states that the crops were developed through conventional and molecular breeding methods to naturally increase nutrients such as iron, zinc, calcium, protein and vitamin-A.ICAR said India has so far developed 70 biofortified wheat varieties, 43 maize varieties, 18 pearl millet varieties and 16 rice varieties, along with nutrient-rich pulses, oilseeds, vegetables and fruits.The push for nutrient-rich crops comes amid the launch of the SEHAT (Science Excellence for Health through Agricultural Transformation) mission by Union health minister J.P. Nadda and Union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, with ICMR and ICAR seeking to link agriculture with nutrition and disease prevention.The report argues that biofortified crops could offer a low-cost and sustainable alternative to supplements and food fortification programmes because nutrients are delivered through foods people consume daily.ICAR director general M.L. Jat said dietary risks now account for 54.6% of India’s disease burden and stressed the need to make the country’s agri-food system more nutrition-sensitive.Union agriculture minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said India had achieved record foodgrain production of 357.7 million tonnes in 2024-25, but added that improving nutritional quality was equally important for food security.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 MediaVideosFormer TMC Minister Sujit Bose Arrested By ED In Municipality Recruitment ‘Scam’PM Modi Slams Destination Weddings Abroad, Urges Indians To Avoid Foreign Travel’Voted For Whistle’: MDMK Chief Vaiko’s House Helps’ Meeting With CM Vijay Goes ViralRahul Slams PM Modi’s Crisis Appeal | NIA Probes Bengaluru Security Scare IntensifyTMC Leaders Turn On I-PAC After Bengal Poll Rout, Raise Explosive Claims Against FirmAfter PM Modi’s ‘Save Oil’ Appeal, Rajnath Singh Chairs Key Energy Security Review Meeting’Deeply Shocking’: TVK Ally Questions Vijay Over Vande Mataram Priority At Oath CeremonyTVK Blames Governor’s Office As Tamil Anthem Row Explodes After Vijay’s Oath CeremonySC Asks Mamata To File Fresh Pleas Regarding Victory Margin Being Less Than SIR DeletionsCM Vijay Meets MK Stalin Amid Treasury Row, Fuels Buzz Over Tamil Nadu’s Political Reset123PhotostoriesIs hantavirus the next COVID? WHO director-general flags key pointers10 baby boy names inspired by the galaxyMorning affirmation at 5 AM: One small shift that changes everythingGold price inflation: Trending alternatives to traditional gold jewellery in 2026Ripe vs Raw Papaya: Which has more nutrition and 5 ways to consume them during summerWhy Kumar Vishwas doesn’t keep these 2 things in his kitchen and shares his Aloo Tamatar Sabzi recipe10 wise quotes by Sudha Murty on love, life and marriageThese 10 daily habits could be the real reason you feel tired, stuck, and brokeAishwarya to Tara: Indian celebrities expected to shine at Cannes Film Festival 20265 stunning flowering plants that can cause Hay Fever123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultModi on buying goldOil prices todayPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingRCBYesterday Match ResultIPL Points TableUS Iran warTilak VarmaChandranath Rath MurderIPL Orange Cap 2026AIADMK splitPM Modi WFHPBKS vs DC Match Preview

Vamsikrishna 0
Manoj Agarwal NEW DELHI: Days after conceding a major defeat in West Bengal, the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress has launched a sharp attack on the newly formed BJP government in the state over the appointment of former chief electoral officer Manoj Agarwal as chief secretary. The opposition party termed the move “shameless” and questioned the neutrality of the election process.The TMC highlighted that Agarwal, who oversaw the recently concluded assembly elections in West Bengal as the Election Commission’s top state official, has now been appointed to the highest bureaucratic post in the BJP-led state government.Trinamool Congress leader Saket Gokhale wrote on X: “Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Aggarwal, who conducted the West Bengal election for the EC, has been appointed chief secretary of Bengal by the new BJP Govt.“BJP & ECI are now being open about stealing the election.“Are the courts BLIND or COMPLICIT? This is beyond shameless.”The announcement was made after the first cabinet meeting of the Suvendu Adhikari-led government in West Bengal.Agarwal’s appointment came just 48 hours after special election observer Subrata Gupta was named adviser to the chief minister.Interestingly, Manoj Agarwal had originally been chosen as West Bengal’s chief electoral officer by the Election Commission from a panel sent by the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government.Speculation over his new role intensified on Monday after Agarwal was seen seated beside chief minister Adhikari, with Nariala on his left, during the BJP government’s cabinet meeting at Nabanna.The Trinamool Congress, which had repeatedly clashed with Agarwal during the assembly polls, including a public spat on X between him and former finance minister Chandrima Bhattacharya, reacted sharply to the appointment.TMC MP Sagarika Ghose posted on X: “The so-called ‘neutral umpire’ is rewarded with the post of top bureaucrat of the BJP dispensation in Bengal. Does anyone still seriously believe the 2026 Bengal elections were free and fair? Outrageous and brazen.”The BJP defended the decision, saying it had appointed the senior-most IAS officer and, unlike Mamata Banerjee, had followed service rules.A 1990-batch IAS officer of the West Bengal cadre, Manoj Agarwal is due to retire on July 31. However, sources indicated that he could receive at least a six-month extension, subject to a recommendation from the state government and approval by the Centre.West Bengal has precedent for such extensions. Former chief secretaries Samar Ghosh, Hari Krishna Dwivedi, BP Gopalika and Manoj Pant continued in office even after turning 60. Ghosh, who was appointed during the Left Front era, later became Mamata Banerjee’s first chief secretary in 2011.A mechanical engineering graduate, Agarwal has held several key administrative positions during his career. He began as ADM of Burdwan and later served as principal secretary in departments including personnel and administrative reforms, food and supplies, and fire and emergency services.In June 2024, he was appointed additional chief secretary of the forest department before becoming chief electoral officer ten months later.Under Agarwal’s tenure as CEO, the assembly elections in West Bengal were conducted largely peacefully. Sources said chief election commissioner Gyanesh Kumar had commended him for overseeing the polls smoothly.His appointment also comes ahead of the May 21 Falta bypoll.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 MediaVideosFormer TMC Minister Sujit Bose Arrested By ED In Municipality Recruitment ‘Scam’PM Modi Slams Destination Weddings Abroad, Urges Indians To Avoid Foreign Travel’Voted For Whistle’: MDMK Chief Vaiko’s House Helps’ Meeting With CM Vijay Goes ViralRahul Slams PM Modi’s Crisis Appeal | NIA Probes Bengaluru Security Scare IntensifyTMC Leaders Turn On I-PAC After Bengal Poll Rout, Raise Explosive Claims Against FirmAfter PM Modi’s ‘Save Oil’ Appeal, Rajnath Singh Chairs Key Energy Security Review Meeting’Deeply Shocking’: TVK Ally Questions Vijay Over Vande Mataram Priority At Oath CeremonyTVK Blames Governor’s Office As Tamil Anthem Row Explodes After Vijay’s Oath CeremonySC Asks Mamata To File Fresh Pleas Regarding Victory Margin Being Less Than SIR DeletionsCM Vijay Meets MK Stalin Amid Treasury Row, Fuels Buzz Over Tamil Nadu’s Political Reset123PhotostoriesIs hantavirus the next COVID? WHO director-general flags key pointers10 baby boy names inspired by the galaxyMorning affirmation at 5 AM: One small shift that changes everythingGold price inflation: Trending alternatives to traditional gold jewellery in 2026Ripe vs Raw Papaya: Which has more nutrition and 5 ways to consume them during summerWhy Kumar Vishwas doesn’t keep these 2 things in his kitchen and shares his Aloo Tamatar Sabzi recipe10 wise quotes by Sudha Murty on love, life and marriageThese 10 daily habits could be the real reason you feel tired, stuck, and brokeAishwarya to Tara: Indian celebrities expected to shine at Cannes Film Festival 20265 stunning flowering plants that can cause Hay Fever123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultModi on buying goldOil prices todayPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingRCBYesterday Match ResultIPL Points TableUS Iran warTilak VarmaChandranath Rath MurderIPL Orange Cap 2026AIADMK splitPM Modi WFHPBKS vs DC Match Preview

Manoj Agarwal NEW DELHI: Days after conceding a major defeat in West Bengal, the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress has launched a sharp attack on the newly formed BJP government in the state over the appointment of former chief electoral officer Manoj Agarwal as chief secretary. The opposition party termed the move “shameless” and questioned the neutrality of the election process.The TMC highlighted that Agarwal, who oversaw the recently concluded assembly elections in West Bengal as the Election Commission’s top state official, has now been appointed to the highest bureaucratic post in the BJP-led state government.Trinamool Congress leader Saket Gokhale wrote on X: “Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Aggarwal, who conducted the West Bengal election for the EC, has been appointed chief secretary of Bengal by the new BJP Govt.“BJP & ECI are now being open about stealing the election.“Are the courts BLIND or COMPLICIT? This is beyond shameless.”The announcement was made after the first cabinet meeting of the Suvendu Adhikari-led government in West Bengal.Agarwal’s appointment came just 48 hours after special election observer Subrata Gupta was named adviser to the chief minister.Interestingly, Manoj Agarwal had originally been chosen as West Bengal’s chief electoral officer by the Election Commission from a panel sent by the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government.Speculation over his new role intensified on Monday after Agarwal was seen seated beside chief minister Adhikari, with Nariala on his left, during the BJP government’s cabinet meeting at Nabanna.The Trinamool Congress, which had repeatedly clashed with Agarwal during the assembly polls, including a public spat on X between him and former finance minister Chandrima Bhattacharya, reacted sharply to the appointment.TMC MP Sagarika Ghose posted on X: “The so-called ‘neutral umpire’ is rewarded with the post of top bureaucrat of the BJP dispensation in Bengal. Does anyone still seriously believe the 2026 Bengal elections were free and fair? Outrageous and brazen.”The BJP defended the decision, saying it had appointed the senior-most IAS officer and, unlike Mamata Banerjee, had followed service rules.A 1990-batch IAS officer of the West Bengal cadre, Manoj Agarwal is due to retire on July 31. However, sources indicated that he could receive at least a six-month extension, subject to a recommendation from the state government and approval by the Centre.West Bengal has precedent for such extensions. Former chief secretaries Samar Ghosh, Hari Krishna Dwivedi, BP Gopalika and Manoj Pant continued in office even after turning 60. Ghosh, who was appointed during the Left Front era, later became Mamata Banerjee’s first chief secretary in 2011.A mechanical engineering graduate, Agarwal has held several key administrative positions during his career. He began as ADM of Burdwan and later served as principal secretary in departments including personnel and administrative reforms, food and supplies, and fire and emergency services.In June 2024, he was appointed additional chief secretary of the forest department before becoming chief electoral officer ten months later.Under Agarwal’s tenure as CEO, the assembly elections in West Bengal were conducted largely peacefully. Sources said chief election commissioner Gyanesh Kumar had commended him for overseeing the polls smoothly.His appointment also comes ahead of the May 21 Falta bypoll.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 MediaVideosFormer TMC Minister Sujit Bose Arrested By ED In Municipality Recruitment ‘Scam’PM Modi Slams Destination Weddings Abroad, Urges Indians To Avoid Foreign Travel’Voted For Whistle’: MDMK Chief Vaiko’s House Helps’ Meeting With CM Vijay Goes ViralRahul Slams PM Modi’s Crisis Appeal | NIA Probes Bengaluru Security Scare IntensifyTMC Leaders Turn On I-PAC After Bengal Poll Rout, Raise Explosive Claims Against FirmAfter PM Modi’s ‘Save Oil’ Appeal, Rajnath Singh Chairs Key Energy Security Review Meeting’Deeply Shocking’: TVK Ally Questions Vijay Over Vande Mataram Priority At Oath CeremonyTVK Blames Governor’s Office As Tamil Anthem Row Explodes After Vijay’s Oath CeremonySC Asks Mamata To File Fresh Pleas Regarding Victory Margin Being Less Than SIR DeletionsCM Vijay Meets MK Stalin Amid Treasury Row, Fuels Buzz Over Tamil Nadu’s Political Reset123PhotostoriesIs hantavirus the next COVID? WHO director-general flags key pointers10 baby boy names inspired by the galaxyMorning affirmation at 5 AM: One small shift that changes everythingGold price inflation: Trending alternatives to traditional gold jewellery in 2026Ripe vs Raw Papaya: Which has more nutrition and 5 ways to consume them during summerWhy Kumar Vishwas doesn’t keep these 2 things in his kitchen and shares his Aloo Tamatar Sabzi recipe10 wise quotes by Sudha Murty on love, life and marriageThese 10 daily habits could be the real reason you feel tired, stuck, and brokeAishwarya to Tara: Indian celebrities expected to shine at Cannes Film Festival 20265 stunning flowering plants that can cause Hay Fever123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultModi on buying goldOil prices todayPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingRCBYesterday Match ResultIPL Points TableUS Iran warTilak VarmaChandranath Rath MurderIPL Orange Cap 2026AIADMK splitPM Modi WFHPBKS vs DC Match Preview

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NEW DELHI: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Monday urged “people to remain calm and avoid any kind of panic as all concrete steps are being taken to prevent shortages or disruptions in supply chains”. The minister, who chaired the 5th meeting of the informal group of ministers (IGoM) on the West Asia developments, said his “govt’s primary focus is to ensure that energy flows remain uninterrupted, economic stability is maintained and maritime trade routes remain secure”. He, however, urged people to rationalise use of fuel.The IGoM, attended by several ministers, including Jagat Prakash Nadda, Hardeep Singh Puri, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Kiren Rijiju, K R Rammohan Naidu, S Sonowal and Jitendra Singh, was informed that the country is secure, and there is no shortage of any petroleum product, even as most other nations have taken emergency measures to dramatically reduce domestic consumption.The ministers were also informed that there is a surplus amount of essential commodities for the people and the present conservation is intended towards long-run capacity building if the crisis prolongs. The supply management has been good, and the people need not panic or resort to over purchase of fuel and other products.“India has 60 days of crude oil, 60 days of natural gas and 45 days of LPG rolling stock. The foreign exchange reserves stand at a comfortable 3 billion. India is the world’s third largest oil refiner and fourth largest exporter of petroleum products, exporting to over 150 countries and is meeting domestic demand in full. But there is a huge cost being borne by the nation as international crude prices are continuing at very high levels. Fuel conservation can ease this burden,” a govt release said after the meeting.Rajnath, however, directed officials to take concrete steps to implement the PM’s appeal (to rationalise use of fuel) at the ground level. “Ministries and states must identify, in a coordinated manner, measures to institutionalise fuel efficiency, public awareness, and responsible consumption behaviour,” he said, adding, we “need to focus on strategic crisis anticipation, early warning assessment, scenario planning and timely whole-of-govt preparedness”.On Sunday, PM Modi appealed to the people for collective participation to help the country deal with global economic disruptions, supply chain challenges and rising prices caused by international conflicts by prudently using petroleum products and by reducing wasteful consumption so that the fiscal burden on the nation is reduced.India is among a few countries where petroleum prices have held steady through this period of global volatility even after more than 70 days since the conflict started. In many countries, prices have increased by 30 to 70%. However, India’s oil marketing companies have absorbed losses of close to Rs 1,000 crore a day, with under-recoveries running to nearly Rs 2 lakh crore in Q1 ’26 so that the burden of global astronomical prices is not passed to the Indian citizens.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFormer TMC Minister Sujit Bose Arrested By ED In Municipality Recruitment ‘Scam’PM Modi Slams Destination Weddings Abroad, Urges Indians To Avoid Foreign Travel’Voted For Whistle’: MDMK Chief Vaiko’s House Helps’ Meeting With CM Vijay Goes ViralRahul Slams PM Modi’s Crisis Appeal | NIA Probes Bengaluru Security Scare IntensifyTMC Leaders Turn On I-PAC After Bengal Poll Rout, Raise Explosive Claims Against FirmAfter PM Modi’s ‘Save Oil’ Appeal, Rajnath Singh Chairs Key Energy Security Review Meeting’Deeply Shocking’: TVK Ally Questions Vijay Over Vande Mataram Priority At Oath CeremonyTVK Blames Governor’s Office As Tamil Anthem Row Explodes After Vijay’s Oath CeremonySC Asks Mamata To File Fresh Pleas Regarding Victory Margin Being Less Than SIR DeletionsCM Vijay Meets MK Stalin Amid Treasury Row, Fuels Buzz Over Tamil Nadu’s Political Reset123PhotostoriesMorning affirmation at 5 AM: One small shift that changes everythingGold price inflation: Trending alternatives to traditional gold jewellery in 2026Ripe vs Raw Papaya: Which has more nutrition and 5 ways to consume them during summerWhy Kumar Vishwas doesn’t keep these 2 things in his kitchen and shares his Aloo Tamatar Sabzi recipe10 wise quotes by Sudha Murty on love, life and marriageThese 10 daily habits could be the real reason you feel tired, stuck, and brokeAishwarya to Tara: Indian celebrities expected to shine at Cannes Film Festival 20265 stunning flowering plants that can cause Hay Fever7 shocking facts about lions that prove they are far more dangerous than most people think5 summer dinner sabzis you can make with just 2 tbsp of mustard oil123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultModi on buying goldOil prices todayPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingRCBYesterday Match ResultIPL Points TableUS Iran warTilak VarmaChandranath Rath MurderIPL Orange Cap 2026AIADMK splitPM Modi WFHPBKS vs DC Match Preview

NEW DELHI: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Monday urged “people to remain calm and avoid any kind of panic as all concrete steps are being taken to prevent shortages or disruptions in supply chains”. The minister, who chaired the 5th meeting of the informal group of ministers (IGoM) on the West Asia developments, said his “govt’s primary focus is to ensure that energy flows remain uninterrupted, economic stability is maintained and maritime trade routes remain secure”. He, however, urged people to rationalise use of fuel.The IGoM, attended by several ministers, including Jagat Prakash Nadda, Hardeep Singh Puri, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Kiren Rijiju, K R Rammohan Naidu, S Sonowal and Jitendra Singh, was informed that the country is secure, and there is no shortage of any petroleum product, even as most other nations have taken emergency measures to dramatically reduce domestic consumption.The ministers were also informed that there is a surplus amount of essential commodities for the people and the present conservation is intended towards long-run capacity building if the crisis prolongs. The supply management has been good, and the people need not panic or resort to over purchase of fuel and other products.“India has 60 days of crude oil, 60 days of natural gas and 45 days of LPG rolling stock. The foreign exchange reserves stand at a comfortable $703 billion. India is the world’s third largest oil refiner and fourth largest exporter of petroleum products, exporting to over 150 countries and is meeting domestic demand in full. But there is a huge cost being borne by the nation as international crude prices are continuing at very high levels. Fuel conservation can ease this burden,” a govt release said after the meeting.Rajnath, however, directed officials to take concrete steps to implement the PM’s appeal (to rationalise use of fuel) at the ground level. “Ministries and states must identify, in a coordinated manner, measures to institutionalise fuel efficiency, public awareness, and responsible consumption behaviour,” he said, adding, we “need to focus on strategic crisis anticipation, early warning assessment, scenario planning and timely whole-of-govt preparedness”.On Sunday, PM Modi appealed to the people for collective participation to help the country deal with global economic disruptions, supply chain challenges and rising prices caused by international conflicts by prudently using petroleum products and by reducing wasteful consumption so that the fiscal burden on the nation is reduced.India is among a few countries where petroleum prices have held steady through this period of global volatility even after more than 70 days since the conflict started. In many countries, prices have increased by 30 to 70%. However, India’s oil marketing companies have absorbed losses of close to Rs 1,000 crore a day, with under-recoveries running to nearly Rs 2 lakh crore in Q1 ’26 so that the burden of global astronomical prices is not passed to the Indian citizens.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFormer TMC Minister Sujit Bose Arrested By ED In Municipality Recruitment ‘Scam’PM Modi Slams Destination Weddings Abroad, Urges Indians To Avoid Foreign Travel’Voted For Whistle’: MDMK Chief Vaiko’s House Helps’ Meeting With CM Vijay Goes ViralRahul Slams PM Modi’s Crisis Appeal | NIA Probes Bengaluru Security Scare IntensifyTMC Leaders Turn On I-PAC After Bengal Poll Rout, Raise Explosive Claims Against FirmAfter PM Modi’s ‘Save Oil’ Appeal, Rajnath Singh Chairs Key Energy Security Review Meeting’Deeply Shocking’: TVK Ally Questions Vijay Over Vande Mataram Priority At Oath CeremonyTVK Blames Governor’s Office As Tamil Anthem Row Explodes After Vijay’s Oath CeremonySC Asks Mamata To File Fresh Pleas Regarding Victory Margin Being Less Than SIR DeletionsCM Vijay Meets MK Stalin Amid Treasury Row, Fuels Buzz Over Tamil Nadu’s Political Reset123PhotostoriesMorning affirmation at 5 AM: One small shift that changes everythingGold price inflation: Trending alternatives to traditional gold jewellery in 2026Ripe vs Raw Papaya: Which has more nutrition and 5 ways to consume them during summerWhy Kumar Vishwas doesn’t keep these 2 things in his kitchen and shares his Aloo Tamatar Sabzi recipe10 wise quotes by Sudha Murty on love, life and marriageThese 10 daily habits could be the real reason you feel tired, stuck, and brokeAishwarya to Tara: Indian celebrities expected to shine at Cannes Film Festival 20265 stunning flowering plants that can cause Hay Fever7 shocking facts about lions that prove they are far more dangerous than most people think5 summer dinner sabzis you can make with just 2 tbsp of mustard oil123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultModi on buying goldOil prices todayPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingRCBYesterday Match ResultIPL Points TableUS Iran warTilak VarmaChandranath Rath MurderIPL Orange Cap 2026AIADMK splitPM Modi WFHPBKS vs DC Match Preview

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NEW DELHI: BJP turned to a speech of Jawaharlal Nehru to hit out at Rahul Gandhi for his jibe at PM Modi’s appeal for conserving fuel and deferring gold purchase to save foreign exchange, as it accused Congress of confining its politics to the pursuit of power at the cost of nation-building.A clip of Nehru’s speech at a public meeting had him saying that global events like the Korean war, which took place in the early 50s, or some incidents in the US impacted India adversely and could cause price rise.”If appealing to people to be responsible is failure, then was your beloved Nehru ji a ‘compromised PM’,” BJP asked Rahul, turning around his barb for Modi.BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi accused Congress of advancing its “political interests by creating social and political disorder”, questioning if it supports securing India’s future. He said that every region of the world is facing some kind of economic, strategic or energy crisis at this time, be it the US, Europe or West Asia.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFormer TMC Minister Sujit Bose Arrested By ED In Municipality Recruitment ‘Scam’PM Modi Slams Destination Weddings Abroad, Urges Indians To Avoid Foreign Travel’Voted For Whistle’: MDMK Chief Vaiko’s House Helps’ Meeting With CM Vijay Goes ViralRahul Slams PM Modi’s Crisis Appeal | NIA Probes Bengaluru Security Scare IntensifyTMC Leaders Turn On I-PAC After Bengal Poll Rout, Raise Explosive Claims Against FirmAfter PM Modi’s ‘Save Oil’ Appeal, Rajnath Singh Chairs Key Energy Security Review Meeting’Deeply Shocking’: TVK Ally Questions Vijay Over Vande Mataram Priority At Oath CeremonyTVK Blames Governor’s Office As Tamil Anthem Row Explodes After Vijay’s Oath CeremonySC Asks Mamata To File Fresh Pleas Regarding Victory Margin Being Less Than SIR DeletionsCM Vijay Meets MK Stalin Amid Treasury Row, Fuels Buzz Over Tamil Nadu’s Political Reset123PhotostoriesGold price inflation: Trending alternatives to traditional gold jewellery in 2026Ripe vs Raw Papaya: Which has more nutrition and 5 ways to consume them during summerWhy Kumar Vishwas doesn’t keep these 2 things in his kitchen and shares his Aloo Tamatar Sabzi recipe10 wise quotes by Sudha Murty on love, life and marriageThese 10 daily habits could be the real reason you feel tired, stuck, and brokeAishwarya to Tara: Indian celebrities expected to shine at Cannes Film Festival 20265 stunning flowering plants that can cause Hay Fever7 shocking facts about lions that prove they are far more dangerous than most people think5 summer dinner sabzis you can make with just 2 tbsp of mustard oil10 things to do with your parents before it’s too late — Moments you’ll never regret123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultModi on buying goldOil prices todayPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingRCBYesterday Match ResultIPL Points TableUS Iran warTilak VarmaChandranath Rath MurderIPL Orange Cap 2026AIADMK splitPM Modi WFHPBKS vs DC Match Preview

NEW DELHI: BJP turned to a speech of Jawaharlal Nehru to hit out at Rahul Gandhi for his jibe at PM Modi’s appeal for conserving fuel and deferring gold purchase to save foreign exchange, as it accused Congress of confining its politics to the pursuit of power at the cost of nation-building.A clip of Nehru’s speech at a public meeting had him saying that global events like the Korean war, which took place in the early 50s, or some incidents in the US impacted India adversely and could cause price rise.”If appealing to people to be responsible is failure, then was your beloved Nehru ji a ‘compromised PM’,” BJP asked Rahul, turning around his barb for Modi.BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi accused Congress of advancing its “political interests by creating social and political disorder”, questioning if it supports securing India’s future. He said that every region of the world is facing some kind of economic, strategic or energy crisis at this time, be it the US, Europe or West Asia.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFormer TMC Minister Sujit Bose Arrested By ED In Municipality Recruitment ‘Scam’PM Modi Slams Destination Weddings Abroad, Urges Indians To Avoid Foreign Travel’Voted For Whistle’: MDMK Chief Vaiko’s House Helps’ Meeting With CM Vijay Goes ViralRahul Slams PM Modi’s Crisis Appeal | NIA Probes Bengaluru Security Scare IntensifyTMC Leaders Turn On I-PAC After Bengal Poll Rout, Raise Explosive Claims Against FirmAfter PM Modi’s ‘Save Oil’ Appeal, Rajnath Singh Chairs Key Energy Security Review Meeting’Deeply Shocking’: TVK Ally Questions Vijay Over Vande Mataram Priority At Oath CeremonyTVK Blames Governor’s Office As Tamil Anthem Row Explodes After Vijay’s Oath CeremonySC Asks Mamata To File Fresh Pleas Regarding Victory Margin Being Less Than SIR DeletionsCM Vijay Meets MK Stalin Amid Treasury Row, Fuels Buzz Over Tamil Nadu’s Political Reset123PhotostoriesGold price inflation: Trending alternatives to traditional gold jewellery in 2026Ripe vs Raw Papaya: Which has more nutrition and 5 ways to consume them during summerWhy Kumar Vishwas doesn’t keep these 2 things in his kitchen and shares his Aloo Tamatar Sabzi recipe10 wise quotes by Sudha Murty on love, life and marriageThese 10 daily habits could be the real reason you feel tired, stuck, and brokeAishwarya to Tara: Indian celebrities expected to shine at Cannes Film Festival 20265 stunning flowering plants that can cause Hay Fever7 shocking facts about lions that prove they are far more dangerous than most people think5 summer dinner sabzis you can make with just 2 tbsp of mustard oil10 things to do with your parents before it’s too late — Moments you’ll never regret123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultModi on buying goldOil prices todayPune child rape-murder casePerambur election resultIndia-New Zealand FTASugarcane price hikeTop TrendingRCBYesterday Match ResultIPL Points TableUS Iran warTilak VarmaChandranath Rath MurderIPL Orange Cap 2026AIADMK splitPM Modi WFHPBKS vs DC Match Preview

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