May 19, 2026

NEW DELHI: Union home minister Amit Shah has described the passage of the Jan Vishwas Bill, 2026, in Parliament as a “giant step” towards enhancing ease of living and ease of doing business in India. In a post on X late Thursday, the home minister said, “Cutting down on several legal provisions, it makes Modi Ji’s vision of New India a grand reality by making life easier and business simpler for all.” Parliament on Thursday passed the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026, to amend 784 provisions in 79 central laws for decriminalising and rationalising minor offences to further improve the business environment and check harassment of people.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Himanta Biswa Sarma Is Amit Shah Of North-East, He Even Controls Congress’: Yashwant DeshmukhAs Iran War Jolts Pakistan’s Economy, India Acts as Key Stabiliser for NeighboursMEA Confirms India Attending UK-Hosted Meeting To Discuss Reopening Strait Of HormuzTamil Nadu Elections 2026: M.K. Stalin vs AIADMK — Will Vijay Be the X-Factor?Tejas Mk1A Delayed Again As GE Delivers Only 6 Engines Against Target’Energy Instability’: Navy Chief Tripathi Flags ‘Severe Economic Impact’ Of Hormuz Disruption’No Worries For India In Hormuz’: Says Iran, As Rajnath Singh Assures Navy’s Escort To Secure Supply’No Fuel Shortage, Navy Guards Tankers On Hormuz Route’: Rajnath Singh Signals India’s Readiness’Unprecedented, Decisive Action’: Rajnath Warns Pakistan Against Misadventure, Reminds Of Op SindoorIndian LPG Tanker Escapes Mined Hormuz Route, Sails Via Larak Amid War123Photostories10 home names inspired by sacred places and their meaningsHow to grow plums in containers on a balconyGold jewellery vs solid gold investment: Which is a smarter investment choice today?From reacting to husband Krushna Abhishek roasting her to working as Shiamak Davar’s dancer and bagging the SRK-Juhi starrer ‘Yes Boss,’ Kashmera Shah on her journeyHow to make protein-rich Sattu Paratha for breakfastBirds that change their feather colours for survivalFrom Aditya Dhar-Yami Gautam to Sachin Tendulkar-Anjali: 10 celebrities who chose to get married in the comfort of their homesFrom typhoons to blizzards: Strangest weather events in war historyBill Gates once said, “Success is a lousy teacher, it seduces smart people…”: 4 lessons it teaches studentsRERA penalties for real estate brokers in India (2026); from hefty fines to jail terms123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingOil Price TodayGood Friday 2026India Labour CodeRandy GeorgeLuigi MangioneGucci ManeRaghav ChaddaHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins
NEW DELHI: Union home minister Amit Shah has described the passage of the Jan Vishwas Bill, 2026, in Parliament as a “giant step” towards enhancing ease of living and ease of doing business in India. In a post on X late Thursday, the home minister said, “Cutting down on several legal provisions, it makes Modi Ji’s vision of New India a grand reality by making life easier and business simpler for all.” Parliament on Thursday passed the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026, to amend 784 provisions in 79 central laws for decriminalising and rationalising minor offences to further improve the business environment and check harassment of people.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Himanta Biswa Sarma Is Amit Shah Of North-East, He Even Controls Congress’: Yashwant DeshmukhAs Iran War Jolts Pakistan’s Economy, India Acts as Key Stabiliser for NeighboursMEA Confirms India Attending UK-Hosted Meeting To Discuss Reopening Strait Of HormuzTamil Nadu Elections 2026: M.K. Stalin vs AIADMK — Will Vijay Be the X-Factor?Tejas Mk1A Delayed Again As GE Delivers Only 6 Engines Against Target’Energy Instability’: Navy Chief Tripathi Flags ‘Severe Economic Impact’ Of Hormuz Disruption’No Worries For India In Hormuz’: Says Iran, As Rajnath Singh Assures Navy’s Escort To Secure Supply’No Fuel Shortage, Navy Guards Tankers On Hormuz Route’: Rajnath Singh Signals India’s Readiness’Unprecedented, Decisive Action’: Rajnath Warns Pakistan Against Misadventure, Reminds Of Op SindoorIndian LPG Tanker Escapes Mined Hormuz Route, Sails Via Larak Amid War123Photostories10 home names inspired by sacred places and their meaningsHow to grow plums in containers on a balconyGold jewellery vs solid gold investment: Which is a smarter investment choice today?From reacting to husband Krushna Abhishek roasting her to working as Shiamak Davar’s dancer and bagging the SRK-Juhi starrer ‘Yes Boss,’ Kashmera Shah on her journeyHow to make protein-rich Sattu Paratha for breakfastBirds that change their feather colours for survivalFrom Aditya Dhar-Yami Gautam to Sachin Tendulkar-Anjali: 10 celebrities who chose to get married in the comfort of their homesFrom typhoons to blizzards: Strangest weather events in war historyBill Gates once said, “Success is a lousy teacher, it seduces smart people…”: 4 lessons it teaches studentsRERA penalties for real estate brokers in India (2026); from hefty fines to jail terms123Hot PicksUAE healthcare rulesLeBron JamesNASA Artemis IIKristi Noem HusbandUS Iran WarPublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingOil Price TodayGood Friday 2026India Labour CodeRandy GeorgeLuigi MangioneGucci ManeRaghav ChaddaHailee SteinfeldSchool Holidays in AprilIran war news


Jan Vishwas Bill 'giant step' for ease of living, business: Shah

NEW DELHI: Union home minister Amit Shah has described the passage of the Jan Vishwas Bill, 2026, in Parliament as a “giant step” towards enhancing ease of living and ease of doing business in India. In a post on X late Thursday, the home minister said, “Cutting down on several legal provisions, it makes Modi Ji’s vision of New India a grand reality by making life easier and business simpler for all.” Parliament on Thursday passed the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026, to amend 784 provisions in 79 central laws for decriminalising and rationalising minor offences to further improve the business environment and check harassment of people.



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NEW DELHI: Days before the re-polls, Trinamool Congress candidate Jahangir Khan from West Bengal’s Falta on Tuesday withdrew his nomination.TMC spokesperson Arup Chakraborty said the party has received information about Khan’s decision, but is yet to get clarity on what prompted it.”We have heard that Jahangir Khan has decided not to contest or participate in the Falta repoll,” he told reporters.”We are still not aware of the reason behind his withdrawal,” he added.This comes after the Election commission scrapped the polls in Falta assembly constituency citing “severe electoral offences and subversion of the democratic process.”Cases of voter intimidation and alleged tampering with EVMs, including blocking opposition candidates’ names, were reported across booths in Falta. Inadequate CCTV footage also made it impossible to verify the fairness of the polling process.The repolling in Falta seat is scheduled to take place on May 21.Earlier, West Bengal chief minister Suvendu Adhikari took direct aim at Jahangir, who had compared himself to blockbuster film Pushpa’s smuggler-turned-strongman.While addressing a rally in Diamond Harbour, Adhikari said, “Where is that Pushpa — the dacoit? He is not seen anywhere now. The National Human Rights Commission declared 19 persons as notorious criminals in 2021. Jahangir was one of them. Leave him to me. I will take care of him.”Ahead of the rally, police arrested Saidul Khan, a close aide of Jahangir and Trinamool’s Falta vice-president, on multiple charges including death threats.In the 2026 assembly elections, BJP secured 207 seats to end the party’s 15-year rule in the state. Meanwhile, TMC managed to win only 80 seats.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosThree Coaches Of Ujjain Express Derail Near Rishikesh, Railway Safety Procedures Under ScrutinyTamil Nadu TVK MLA Performs 30-Minute Ritual Float In Well For Vijay, Sparks Online DebateSC Refuses Stay On Stray Dog Removal From Public Places; Orders Strict ABC Rule ComplianceFIR Against Ex-Minister, Former DGP Over Lionel Messi Kolkata Event ChaosTMC Alleges ‘Vote Chori’ In Bengal Polls, BJP Says TMC Must Introspect Over DefeatMEA’s Sibi George Defends India After Reporter Questions ‘Why the World Should Trust India’“Fuel Prices Rise Again”: Petrol, Diesel Rates Hiked Across India Amid Global Oil SurgeTamil Nadu CM Vijay Pays Tribute To Former LTTE Chief Prabhakaran On Death AnniversaryIndia’s Agni Missile Journey: Could Agni-VI Become A 10,000 KM ICBM?Suvendu Adhikari Says ED Granted Sanction To Prosecute Sandeep Ghosh In R.G. Kar Case123PhotostoriesMouni Roy channels ultimate revenge dressing in bold monochrome settings at Cannes 2026, post-split separation buzz with Suraj NambiarMichael Jackson’s acting roles: All about films in which the King of Pop starredAnne Hathaway’s beauty secrets revealed: The exact routine behind her youthful glow in 40sHow to prevent dust from entering home through windows7 snakes with colours so bright they look AI-generated10 parenting advice given to young parents that can be happily ignored9 seasonal fruits one should eat in the month of MayPlants that need pruning in May in IndiaTara Sutaria’s vintage ina modern home speaks Victorian minimalism: Art inspirations to take awayFrom elephant aunties to lesbian birds: 5 wild animal queens that rule harder than humans ever could123Hot PicksSBI apprentice recruitment 2026US Iran warCBSE Class 12 re-evaluation 2026Gold price predictionAdani Group stocksNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingTwisha SharmaJEE AdvancedFifa World Cup 2026Subnautica 2 Enameled Glass GuideWWE Raw HighlightsIPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026India VS Afghanistan Squad AnnouncementLeviathan in Subnautica 2Fuel Price Hike

NEW DELHI: Days before the re-polls, Trinamool Congress candidate Jahangir Khan from West Bengal’s Falta on Tuesday withdrew his nomination.TMC spokesperson Arup Chakraborty said the party has received information about Khan’s decision, but is yet to get clarity on what prompted it.”We have heard that Jahangir Khan has decided not to contest or participate in the Falta repoll,” he told reporters.”We are still not aware of the reason behind his withdrawal,” he added.This comes after the Election commission scrapped the polls in Falta assembly constituency citing “severe electoral offences and subversion of the democratic process.”Cases of voter intimidation and alleged tampering with EVMs, including blocking opposition candidates’ names, were reported across booths in Falta. Inadequate CCTV footage also made it impossible to verify the fairness of the polling process.The repolling in Falta seat is scheduled to take place on May 21.Earlier, West Bengal chief minister Suvendu Adhikari took direct aim at Jahangir, who had compared himself to blockbuster film Pushpa’s smuggler-turned-strongman.While addressing a rally in Diamond Harbour, Adhikari said, “Where is that Pushpa — the dacoit? He is not seen anywhere now. The National Human Rights Commission declared 19 persons as notorious criminals in 2021. Jahangir was one of them. Leave him to me. I will take care of him.”Ahead of the rally, police arrested Saidul Khan, a close aide of Jahangir and Trinamool’s Falta vice-president, on multiple charges including death threats.In the 2026 assembly elections, BJP secured 207 seats to end the party’s 15-year rule in the state. Meanwhile, TMC managed to win only 80 seats.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosThree Coaches Of Ujjain Express Derail Near Rishikesh, Railway Safety Procedures Under ScrutinyTamil Nadu TVK MLA Performs 30-Minute Ritual Float In Well For Vijay, Sparks Online DebateSC Refuses Stay On Stray Dog Removal From Public Places; Orders Strict ABC Rule ComplianceFIR Against Ex-Minister, Former DGP Over Lionel Messi Kolkata Event ChaosTMC Alleges ‘Vote Chori’ In Bengal Polls, BJP Says TMC Must Introspect Over DefeatMEA’s Sibi George Defends India After Reporter Questions ‘Why the World Should Trust India’“Fuel Prices Rise Again”: Petrol, Diesel Rates Hiked Across India Amid Global Oil SurgeTamil Nadu CM Vijay Pays Tribute To Former LTTE Chief Prabhakaran On Death AnniversaryIndia’s Agni Missile Journey: Could Agni-VI Become A 10,000 KM ICBM?Suvendu Adhikari Says ED Granted Sanction To Prosecute Sandeep Ghosh In R.G. Kar Case123PhotostoriesMouni Roy channels ultimate revenge dressing in bold monochrome settings at Cannes 2026, post-split separation buzz with Suraj NambiarMichael Jackson’s acting roles: All about films in which the King of Pop starredAnne Hathaway’s beauty secrets revealed: The exact routine behind her youthful glow in 40sHow to prevent dust from entering home through windows7 snakes with colours so bright they look AI-generated10 parenting advice given to young parents that can be happily ignored9 seasonal fruits one should eat in the month of MayPlants that need pruning in May in IndiaTara Sutaria’s vintage ina modern home speaks Victorian minimalism: Art inspirations to take awayFrom elephant aunties to lesbian birds: 5 wild animal queens that rule harder than humans ever could123Hot PicksSBI apprentice recruitment 2026US Iran warCBSE Class 12 re-evaluation 2026Gold price predictionAdani Group stocksNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingTwisha SharmaJEE AdvancedFifa World Cup 2026Subnautica 2 Enameled Glass GuideWWE Raw HighlightsIPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026India VS Afghanistan Squad AnnouncementLeviathan in Subnautica 2Fuel Price Hike

Vamsikrishna 0
NEW DELHI: The ministry of external affairs (MEA) strongly pushed back against questions on press freedom and human rights during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Norway, saying many international observers fail to understand the scale and complexity of the country and rely on reports published by “ignorant NGOs”.The remarks came after a Norwegian journalist publicly claimed that PM Modi did not take her question during a media interaction alongside Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in Oslo.The journalist also referred to India’s position in the World Press Freedom Index and criticised the lack of questions during the press appearance, saying “why should we trust India?”‘1/6th of world’s population but not 1/6th of world’s problems’: MEAResponding to the questions, MEA secretary (West) Sibi George defended India’s democratic institutions and constitutional framework.”We hear a lot of people asking why this, why that, but let me tell you this. We are one sixth of the total population of the world, but not one sixth of the problems of the world,” he said during a press briefing.”We have a constitution which guarantees the fundamental rights of the people. We have equal rights for the women of our country, which is very important,” he added.’People have no understanding of the scale of India’The MEA official also criticised international commentary on India, saying many people form opinions without understanding the country’s vast media ecosystem.”You know how many stories are up here. We have how many breaking news coming every day in the evening. At least 200 TV channels in Delhi alone, in the English language, in Hindi language and multiple languages,” George said.”People have no understanding of the scale of India. People have no understanding. They read, you know, one or two news reports published by some godforsaken, ignorant NGOs and then come and ask questions,” he added.”In 1947 we gave the freedom to vote to our women. We got the freedom together and got the right to vote from day one. I know many countries where voting rights for women came after several decades. We believe in equality; We believe in human rights. If anyone whose rights are violated, they have the right to go to court. We are proud to be a democracy,” he said.What may have triggered the controversyThe controversy erupted after Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng questioned PM Modi as he was leaving the hall after delivering media statements with PM Støre.Later, Lyng shared a video of the moment on X stating, “Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, would not take my question, I was not expecting him to.”She also referred to India’s ranking in the World Press Freedom Index, saying, “Norway has the number one spot” while “India is at 157th.”However, the Indian Embassy in Norway responded to her post and invited her to attend an official press briefing later in the evening.”The Embassy is organising a press briefing on the Prime Minister’s Visit this evening at 9.30pm at hotel Radisson BluPlaza hotel. You are most welcome to come and ask your questions there,” the embassy said.Lyng also posted saying she was “very disappointed that the prime minister of Norway did not include time today for the Indian reporters.”Norwegian PM also didn’t take any questions: BJPThe episode also sparked a political row, with opposition leaders targeting PM Modi over the joint media interaction. Rahul Gandhi took a swipe at the Prime Minister, saying, “When there is nothing to hide, there is nothing to fear.”Sharing the video on X, Rahul said, “What happens to India’s image when the world sees a compromised PM panic and run from a few questions?”Congress leader Jairam Ramesh also targeted PM Modi over his interactions with European leaders during the visit, asking “What bogus gyaan is the self-styled but thoroughly exposed Vishwaguru giving to the Dutch PM who actually called him out?”Responding to the criticism, BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya defended PM Modi and pointed out that the Norwegian Prime Minister too did not take questions during the joint press briefing.Sharing a post on X, Malviya said, “The Norwegian Prime Minister also didn’t take any questions at the joint press briefing of the two leaders.””But the lunatic Congress ecosystem led by Rahul Gandhi is crowing over a delinquent journalist’s incoherent rant. One wonders if, like the journalist in question, the Congress leadership is also on the take of those who do not want to see a strong and powerful India,” he added.PM Modi arrived in Oslo on Monday as part of his six-day, five-nation tour to attend the third India-Nordic Summit and hold bilateral talks with Nordic leaders.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 MediaVideosSC Refuses Stay On Stray Dog Removal From Schools, Hospitals; Orders Strict ABC Rule ComplianceFIR Against Ex-Minister, Former DGP Over Lionel Messi Kolkata Event ChaosTMC Alleges ‘Vote Chori’ In Bengal Polls, BJP Says TMC Must Introspect Over DefeatMEA’s Sibi George Defends India After Reporter Questions ‘Why the World Should Trust India’“Fuel Prices Rise Again”: Petrol, Diesel Rates Hiked Across India Amid Global Oil SurgeTamil Nadu CM Vijay Pays Tribute To Former LTTE Chief Prabhakaran On Death AnniversaryIndia’s Agni Missile Journey: Could Agni-VI Become A 10,000 KM ICBM?Suvendu Adhikari Says ED Granted Sanction To Prosecute Sandeep Ghosh In R.G. 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NEW DELHI: The ministry of external affairs (MEA) strongly pushed back against questions on press freedom and human rights during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Norway, saying many international observers fail to understand the scale and complexity of the country and rely on reports published by “ignorant NGOs”.The remarks came after a Norwegian journalist publicly claimed that PM Modi did not take her question during a media interaction alongside Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in Oslo.The journalist also referred to India’s position in the World Press Freedom Index and criticised the lack of questions during the press appearance, saying “why should we trust India?”‘1/6th of world’s population but not 1/6th of world’s problems’: MEAResponding to the questions, MEA secretary (West) Sibi George defended India’s democratic institutions and constitutional framework.”We hear a lot of people asking why this, why that, but let me tell you this. We are one sixth of the total population of the world, but not one sixth of the problems of the world,” he said during a press briefing.”We have a constitution which guarantees the fundamental rights of the people. We have equal rights for the women of our country, which is very important,” he added.’People have no understanding of the scale of India’The MEA official also criticised international commentary on India, saying many people form opinions without understanding the country’s vast media ecosystem.”You know how many stories are up here. We have how many breaking news coming every day in the evening. At least 200 TV channels in Delhi alone, in the English language, in Hindi language and multiple languages,” George said.”People have no understanding of the scale of India. People have no understanding. They read, you know, one or two news reports published by some godforsaken, ignorant NGOs and then come and ask questions,” he added.”In 1947 we gave the freedom to vote to our women. We got the freedom together and got the right to vote from day one. I know many countries where voting rights for women came after several decades. We believe in equality; We believe in human rights. If anyone whose rights are violated, they have the right to go to court. We are proud to be a democracy,” he said.What may have triggered the controversyThe controversy erupted after Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng questioned PM Modi as he was leaving the hall after delivering media statements with PM Støre.Later, Lyng shared a video of the moment on X stating, “Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, would not take my question, I was not expecting him to.”She also referred to India’s ranking in the World Press Freedom Index, saying, “Norway has the number one spot” while “India is at 157th.”However, the Indian Embassy in Norway responded to her post and invited her to attend an official press briefing later in the evening.”The Embassy is organising a press briefing on the Prime Minister’s Visit this evening at 9.30pm at hotel Radisson BluPlaza hotel. You are most welcome to come and ask your questions there,” the embassy said.Lyng also posted saying she was “very disappointed that the prime minister of Norway did not include time today for the Indian reporters.”Norwegian PM also didn’t take any questions: BJPThe episode also sparked a political row, with opposition leaders targeting PM Modi over the joint media interaction. Rahul Gandhi took a swipe at the Prime Minister, saying, “When there is nothing to hide, there is nothing to fear.”Sharing the video on X, Rahul said, “What happens to India’s image when the world sees a compromised PM panic and run from a few questions?”Congress leader Jairam Ramesh also targeted PM Modi over his interactions with European leaders during the visit, asking “What bogus gyaan is the self-styled but thoroughly exposed Vishwaguru giving to the Dutch PM who actually called him out?”Responding to the criticism, BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya defended PM Modi and pointed out that the Norwegian Prime Minister too did not take questions during the joint press briefing.Sharing a post on X, Malviya said, “The Norwegian Prime Minister also didn’t take any questions at the joint press briefing of the two leaders.””But the lunatic Congress ecosystem led by Rahul Gandhi is crowing over a delinquent journalist’s incoherent rant. One wonders if, like the journalist in question, the Congress leadership is also on the take of those who do not want to see a strong and powerful India,” he added.PM Modi arrived in Oslo on Monday as part of his six-day, five-nation tour to attend the third India-Nordic Summit and hold bilateral talks with Nordic leaders.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. 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Kar CaseNorwegian Reporters Question India On Trust And PM Modi’s Media Interactions During Oslo VisitIndia Invites Norway For Big Investment Push In Shipbuilding And Green Energy Sectors123Photostories10 parenting advice given to young parents that can be happily ignored9 seasonal fruits one should eat in the month of MayPlants that need pruning in May in IndiaTara Sutaria’s vintage ina modern home speaks Victorian minimalism: Art inspirations to take awayFrom elephant aunties to lesbian birds: 5 wild animal queens that rule harder than humans ever couldTamil Nadu shuts down 15% of alcohol stores: 5 Indian states where alcohol is completely bannedTraditional Indian cooling methods that still work todayLast chance! 5 tiger safaris to experience in India before the wildlife season ends in JuneNavjot Singh Sidhu’s ₹25 crore luxury mansion in Amritsar is defined by cricket success, ancient trees, and palace-style interiorsWho is Josh Heuston? Inside the rise of ‘Off Campus’ breakout star Justin Kohl123Hot PicksSBI apprentice recruitment 2026US Iran warCBSE Class 12 re-evaluation 2026Gold price predictionAdani Group stocksNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingTwisha SharmaJEE AdvancedFifa World Cup 2026Subnautica 2 Enameled Glass GuideWWE Raw HighlightsIPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026India VS Afghanistan Squad AnnouncementLeviathan in Subnautica 2Fuel Price Hike

Vamsikrishna 0
Independent India was beset with challenges in every walk of life. Archaeology was no exception. Historian Himanshu Prabha Ray and co-author Ajay Yadav map its journey in a new book, “Indian Archaeology after Independence: Amalananda Ghosh and his legacy.” They also enumerate how AI can aid archaeology.1. Archaeology in pre-Independent India was primarily a colonial affair. What were the major challenges in its decolonisation?A: From its inception in 1861, ASI was headed by British officers trained in the classics (Greek and Latin) until 1948 with two exceptions — Daya Ram Sahni (1931–1935) and K N Dikshit (1937–1944). With their competence in Greek and Latin and in Graeco-Roman archaeology the research agenda of ASI was set by DGs who viewed India’s past either as a search for Alexander’s legacy (Alexander Cunningham 1861-1885) or to validate the greatness of the Roman Empire through trade with India (Mortimer Wheeler 1944–1948). From the beginning, the primary task of ASI was conservation of monuments. These included those that highlighted the glory of Britain’s Empire, as well as those that were built during colonial rule.In contrast, the Indian subordinates of the British DGs had mastery over Sanskrit, Tamil and other Indian languages and scripts and were keen to discover India’s past for its citizens rather than for a European audience. Thus, the challenges in ASI’s decolonisation were twofold: one, to shift the focus from understanding Indian archaeology through a Graeco-Roman lens to one rooted in Indian cultural landscapes that evolved and developed from the prehistoric period onwards in diverse ecological niches across the country; and the second, to include the large number of monuments that were protected by the Princely States prior to 1947 within the purview of ASI’s conservation budget.2. Before ASI was born in 1861, there was Bhagwanlal Indraji (1839-88). Can you tell us something about his life and work?A: There is no doubt that Bhagwanlal Indraji, born and brought up in Junagadh, Gujarat, should be considered one of the early dedicated archaeologists in India. He not only deciphered some Ashokan inscriptions but also discovered the edicts at Bairat near Jaipur and Sopara near Mumbai. In 1882 Indraji excavated a Buddhist stupa locally known as Buruda (or basket-maker) king’s fort west of modern Sopara, which yielded a rich haul of Buddhist relics.3. Amalananda Ghosh served as the director-general of ASI from 1958-1973. You write about his “tact, deftness and vision”. What makes his tenure seminal enough to make him part of the book’s title?A: The leadership style of Ghosh was to promote teamwork, rather than seek personal glory. This is what sets him apart from many of his predecessors as well as those who followed him. The survey of Bikaner by his team and him was an attempt to comprehend the cultural context of settlements in the Ghaggar river system, rather than a search for Harappan sites that India had lost to Pakistan in 1947, as generally suggested. An engagement with the archaeology of neighbouring countries was a hallmark of Ghosh’s vision and one that is evident in ASI’s participation in UNESCO’s salvage expedition to Nubia, in Egypt; the Centenary Celebrations in 1961 and the conference on Asian Archaeology.4. In recent decades, bureaucrats have headed the ASI. Often, they have short tenures. Has it worked to the advantage or detriment of the institution?A: After Ghosh’s 15-year tenure ended in 1968, leadership became increasingly fragmented, although professional archaeologists continued to be in charge until the early 1980s. From the 1990s onward, as the organisation became heavily involved in court-mandated excavations, heritage litigation, tourism management, and World Heritage compliance, the government began appointing senior IAS officers as Directors-General. This shift produced mixed outcomes, since internally, ASI has long been shaped by competing professional lineages, excavation-based loyalties, and regional networks. The core issue, therefore, is not the background of the Director-General, but the absence of stable, long-term leadership in a discipline that depends on cumulative knowledge and sustained institutional memory. Each leadership change in ASI tends to reset priorities rather than consolidate them.5. What would you say are the challenges for an archaeologist in India today?A: Ghosh had identified two challenges for archaeologists in India: training and employment opportunities. These continue to plague Indian archaeology into the present.6. AI is the buzzword in all aspects of our lives today. What can be its role in archaeology?In archaeology, it is useful to distinguish between language-based AI and research or data-driven AI, because their functions and limits are quite different. Language-based AI systems work primarily with text and could aid in organising excavation reports, scanning archives and making site records searchable. Such tools could significantly improve access to the ASI’s vast but under-utilised archival holdings and inscriptional treasure. Research-based AI, by contrast, works on numerical, spatial, or visual data rather than prose. In India, these applications could help identify potential site clusters, trace palaeo-river systems, or flag anomalies that need ground verification. But AI cannot act as a substitute for archaeological methods and judgement.About the AuthorAvijit GhoshAvijit Ghosh is an associate editor with The Times of India. He is addicted to films, music, cricket and football—and not necessarily in that order. He is the author of Bandicoots in the Moonlight, Cinema Bhojpuri, 40 Retakes, and now, Up Campus, Down Campus, a novel set in 1980s JNU. He tweets from the handle @cinemawaleghoshRead MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTMC Alleges ‘Vote Chori’ In Bengal Polls, BJP Says TMC Must Introspect Over DefeatMEA’s Sibi George Defends India After Reporter Questions ‘Why the World Should Trust India’“Fuel Prices Rise Again”: Petrol, Diesel Rates Hiked Across India Amid Global Oil SurgeTamil Nadu CM Vijay Pays Tribute To Former LTTE Chief Prabhakaran On Death AnniversaryIndia’s Agni Missile Journey: Could Agni-VI Become A 10,000 KM ICBM?Suvendu Adhikari Says ED Granted Sanction To Prosecute Sandeep Ghosh In R.G. 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Independent India was beset with challenges in every walk of life. Archaeology was no exception. Historian Himanshu Prabha Ray and co-author Ajay Yadav map its journey in a new book, “Indian Archaeology after Independence: Amalananda Ghosh and his legacy.” They also enumerate how AI can aid archaeology.1. Archaeology in pre-Independent India was primarily a colonial affair. What were the major challenges in its decolonisation?A: From its inception in 1861, ASI was headed by British officers trained in the classics (Greek and Latin) until 1948 with two exceptions — Daya Ram Sahni (1931–1935) and K N Dikshit (1937–1944). With their competence in Greek and Latin and in Graeco-Roman archaeology the research agenda of ASI was set by DGs who viewed India’s past either as a search for Alexander’s legacy (Alexander Cunningham 1861-1885) or to validate the greatness of the Roman Empire through trade with India (Mortimer Wheeler 1944–1948). From the beginning, the primary task of ASI was conservation of monuments. These included those that highlighted the glory of Britain’s Empire, as well as those that were built during colonial rule.In contrast, the Indian subordinates of the British DGs had mastery over Sanskrit, Tamil and other Indian languages and scripts and were keen to discover India’s past for its citizens rather than for a European audience. Thus, the challenges in ASI’s decolonisation were twofold: one, to shift the focus from understanding Indian archaeology through a Graeco-Roman lens to one rooted in Indian cultural landscapes that evolved and developed from the prehistoric period onwards in diverse ecological niches across the country; and the second, to include the large number of monuments that were protected by the Princely States prior to 1947 within the purview of ASI’s conservation budget.2. Before ASI was born in 1861, there was Bhagwanlal Indraji (1839-88). Can you tell us something about his life and work?A: There is no doubt that Bhagwanlal Indraji, born and brought up in Junagadh, Gujarat, should be considered one of the early dedicated archaeologists in India. He not only deciphered some Ashokan inscriptions but also discovered the edicts at Bairat near Jaipur and Sopara near Mumbai. In 1882 Indraji excavated a Buddhist stupa locally known as Buruda (or basket-maker) king’s fort west of modern Sopara, which yielded a rich haul of Buddhist relics.3. Amalananda Ghosh served as the director-general of ASI from 1958-1973. You write about his “tact, deftness and vision”. What makes his tenure seminal enough to make him part of the book’s title?A: The leadership style of Ghosh was to promote teamwork, rather than seek personal glory. This is what sets him apart from many of his predecessors as well as those who followed him. The survey of Bikaner by his team and him was an attempt to comprehend the cultural context of settlements in the Ghaggar river system, rather than a search for Harappan sites that India had lost to Pakistan in 1947, as generally suggested. An engagement with the archaeology of neighbouring countries was a hallmark of Ghosh’s vision and one that is evident in ASI’s participation in UNESCO’s salvage expedition to Nubia, in Egypt; the Centenary Celebrations in 1961 and the conference on Asian Archaeology.4. In recent decades, bureaucrats have headed the ASI. Often, they have short tenures. Has it worked to the advantage or detriment of the institution?A: After Ghosh’s 15-year tenure ended in 1968, leadership became increasingly fragmented, although professional archaeologists continued to be in charge until the early 1980s. From the 1990s onward, as the organisation became heavily involved in court-mandated excavations, heritage litigation, tourism management, and World Heritage compliance, the government began appointing senior IAS officers as Directors-General. This shift produced mixed outcomes, since internally, ASI has long been shaped by competing professional lineages, excavation-based loyalties, and regional networks. The core issue, therefore, is not the background of the Director-General, but the absence of stable, long-term leadership in a discipline that depends on cumulative knowledge and sustained institutional memory. Each leadership change in ASI tends to reset priorities rather than consolidate them.5. What would you say are the challenges for an archaeologist in India today?A: Ghosh had identified two challenges for archaeologists in India: training and employment opportunities. These continue to plague Indian archaeology into the present.6. AI is the buzzword in all aspects of our lives today. What can be its role in archaeology?In archaeology, it is useful to distinguish between language-based AI and research or data-driven AI, because their functions and limits are quite different. Language-based AI systems work primarily with text and could aid in organising excavation reports, scanning archives and making site records searchable. Such tools could significantly improve access to the ASI’s vast but under-utilised archival holdings and inscriptional treasure. Research-based AI, by contrast, works on numerical, spatial, or visual data rather than prose. In India, these applications could help identify potential site clusters, trace palaeo-river systems, or flag anomalies that need ground verification. But AI cannot act as a substitute for archaeological methods and judgement.About the AuthorAvijit GhoshAvijit Ghosh is an associate editor with The Times of India. He is addicted to films, music, cricket and football—and not necessarily in that order. He is the author of Bandicoots in the Moonlight, Cinema Bhojpuri, 40 Retakes, and now, Up Campus, Down Campus, a novel set in 1980s JNU. He tweets from the handle @cinemawaleghoshRead MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTMC Alleges ‘Vote Chori’ In Bengal Polls, BJP Says TMC Must Introspect Over DefeatMEA’s Sibi George Defends India After Reporter Questions ‘Why the World Should Trust India’“Fuel Prices Rise Again”: Petrol, Diesel Rates Hiked Across India Amid Global Oil SurgeTamil Nadu CM Vijay Pays Tribute To Former LTTE Chief Prabhakaran On Death AnniversaryIndia’s Agni Missile Journey: Could Agni-VI Become A 10,000 KM ICBM?Suvendu Adhikari Says ED Granted Sanction To Prosecute Sandeep Ghosh In R.G. Kar CaseNorwegian Reporters Question India On Trust And PM Modi’s Media Interactions During Oslo VisitIndia Invites Norway For Big Investment Push In Shipbuilding And Green Energy Sectors’Time Has Come’: Suvendu’s ‘Deportation’ Warning In Bhabanipur, Vows Action Over Kolkata ViolenceDelhi High Court Denies Interim Relief To Vinesh Phogat, Wrestler Barred From Asian Games Trials123PhotostoriesPlants that need pruning in May in IndiaTara Sutaria’s vintage ina modern home speaks Victorian minimalism: Art inspirations to take awayFrom elephant aunties to lesbian birds: 5 wild animal queens that rule harder than humans ever couldTamil Nadu shuts down 15% of alcohol stores: 5 Indian states where alcohol is completely bannedTraditional Indian cooling methods that still work todayLast chance! 5 tiger safaris to experience in India before the wildlife season ends in JuneNavjot Singh Sidhu’s ₹25 crore luxury mansion in Amritsar is defined by cricket success, ancient trees, and palace-style interiorsWho is Josh Heuston? Inside the rise of ‘Off Campus’ breakout star Justin KohlArt quote of the day by Pablo Picasso: “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life”From samosas to dokla: 10 common Indian snacks and how many calories they contain123Hot PicksSBI apprentice recruitment 2026US Iran warCBSE Class 12 re-evaluation 2026Gold price predictionAdani Group stocksNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingTwisha SharmaIOCL share priceFifa World Cup 2026Subnautica 2 Enameled Glass GuideWWE Raw HighlightsIPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026India VS Afghanistan Squad AnnouncementLeviathan in Subnautica 2Fuel Price Hike

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