May 17, 2026
– NEW DELHI: Seeking a unified, global approach in the fight against narcotics and narco-terror, Home minister Amit Shah Friday said India has chalked out a roadmap to eradicate drug cartels and make itself drug-free by 2047, such that not a single gram of drugs can enter the country or transit through its land or sea borders.“The strategic goal of demolishing drug syndicates has been set. India aims for a completely drug-free eco-system by 2047; a concrete roadmap for this has been prepared with all the stakeholder ministries on board,” Shah said while delivering the R N Kao Memorial lecture organised here by Research and Analysis Wing (RAW). The lecture — organised annually since 2007 in honour of Kao, the founder of RAW — was themed on ‘Narcotics: A borderless threat, a collective responsibility” this year.Turning to diplomats in the audience representing 40 countries, Shah appealed that they carry back the message of synergised approach for a drug-free world, to their respective govts.Shah suggested that the nations must adopt a unified legal framework to deal with narcotics menace, focused on a common definition of controlled substances and similar penalties, actively share leads on movement of narcotics consignments and work closely to have drug kingpins extradited and brought to justice. “If this is not done, the narcotics and narco terror problem may grow out of control in the next 10 years,” the minister warned while batting for balancing the ruthless approach against narcotics trade and drug cartels with a humane approach towards the victims of substance abuse.The Union home minister highlighted that drug trafficking was not just a law and order problem left to be handled by the police or anti-narcotics agencies, but an issue with a long-lasting impact on society and future generations. With drugs/narcotics proceeds known to fund narco-terror, organised crime and insurgencies across geographies, the minister said the battle against drugs must rise above geopolitical differences and individual national interests. “The world must simultaneously fight both narco networks and narco-terror states,” he stated.He shared that India had, in the past two years, brought back more than 40 transnational criminals to India, with the support of friendly countries.“There is a need for all responsible countries to reach a consensus that the war on drugs is critical to national security, protecting public health and preventing narco-states from becoming alternative power centres,” said the home minister.About the AuthorBharti JainBharti Jain is senior editor with The Times of India, New Delhi. She has been writing on security matters since 1996. Having covered the Union home ministry, security agencies, Election Commission and the ‘prime’ political beat, the Congress, for The Economic Times all these years, she moved to TOI in August 2012. Her repertoire of news stories delves into the whole gamut of issues related to terrorism and internal strife, besides probing strategic affairs in India’s neighbourhood.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Not An Iota Of Truth’: PM Modi Rubbishes Report Of Restriction On Foreign Travel28 Hostages From Kuki, Naga Communities Held By Armed Groups Released In Manipur’I Am Sorry To…’: Shashi Tharoor To Skip VD Satheesan’s Swearing-In As Kerala CMNEET UG 2026 Re-Exam On June 21, Computer-Based Test Format From Next Year: Education MinisterOman To Gujarat: India Fast-Tracks Deep-Sea Gas Pipeline Project Amid Hormuz CrisisCJI Surya Kant Makes Strong Remarks During Senior Advocate HearingKerala CM-Designate Satheesan Hits Back At BJP Over IUML, Secularism DebateFormer RAW Chief Flags Security Risks Over PM Modi’s Convoy DownsizingTMC MP Derek O’Brien Slams Centre After Petrol-Diesel Hike, Targets Modi Government’Bhojshala Complex Is A Temple, Hindus Have Right To Worship’: MP High Court123PhotostoriesKishwer Merchant recalls her father’s reaction to her interfaith marriage and age gap with Suyyash Rai; reacts to her son being trolled for wearing a skull capLauki vs Tori: Which has more nutrition for summer and 5 interesting ways to eat themAncient Kashmiri beauty secrets that are becoming popular again in IndiaFrom transparent bodies to underground lives: 5 bizarre frogs you’ve probably never heard of8 modern TV unit designs to instantly upgrade your living roomPersonality test: Mango, litchi, watermelon? Pick a fruit and see if you are a natural leader, kind, or creativeCannes 2026:Why Sanam Saeed’s Cannes debut is a major moment for Pakistani cinemaHow to grow butterfly-friendly native plants in Indian city home gardensNot just travel: 10 cheapest countries to retire in — 9 and 10 will surprise you5 adorable dog breeds that stay puppy-sized forever123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingNEET UG Re-Exam dateAdmit card indian army agniveer gdIPL Points TablePM ModiKerala Board SSLC Result 2026IPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026Bengaluru RapeWho is Shubham KhairnarIndia UA Trade Talk

– NEW DELHI: Seeking a unified, global approach in the fight against narcotics and narco-terror, Home minister Amit Shah Friday said India has chalked out a roadmap to eradicate drug cartels and make itself drug-free by 2047, such that not a single gram of drugs can enter the country or transit through its land or sea borders.“The strategic goal of demolishing drug syndicates has been set. India aims for a completely drug-free eco-system by 2047; a concrete roadmap for this has been prepared with all the stakeholder ministries on board,” Shah said while delivering the R N Kao Memorial lecture organised here by Research and Analysis Wing (RAW). The lecture — organised annually since 2007 in honour of Kao, the founder of RAW — was themed on ‘Narcotics: A borderless threat, a collective responsibility” this year.Turning to diplomats in the audience representing 40 countries, Shah appealed that they carry back the message of synergised approach for a drug-free world, to their respective govts.Shah suggested that the nations must adopt a unified legal framework to deal with narcotics menace, focused on a common definition of controlled substances and similar penalties, actively share leads on movement of narcotics consignments and work closely to have drug kingpins extradited and brought to justice. “If this is not done, the narcotics and narco terror problem may grow out of control in the next 10 years,” the minister warned while batting for balancing the ruthless approach against narcotics trade and drug cartels with a humane approach towards the victims of substance abuse.The Union home minister highlighted that drug trafficking was not just a law and order problem left to be handled by the police or anti-narcotics agencies, but an issue with a long-lasting impact on society and future generations. With drugs/narcotics proceeds known to fund narco-terror, organised crime and insurgencies across geographies, the minister said the battle against drugs must rise above geopolitical differences and individual national interests. “The world must simultaneously fight both narco networks and narco-terror states,” he stated.He shared that India had, in the past two years, brought back more than 40 transnational criminals to India, with the support of friendly countries.“There is a need for all responsible countries to reach a consensus that the war on drugs is critical to national security, protecting public health and preventing narco-states from becoming alternative power centres,” said the home minister.About the AuthorBharti JainBharti Jain is senior editor with The Times of India, New Delhi. She has been writing on security matters since 1996. Having covered the Union home ministry, security agencies, Election Commission and the ‘prime’ political beat, the Congress, for The Economic Times all these years, she moved to TOI in August 2012. Her repertoire of news stories delves into the whole gamut of issues related to terrorism and internal strife, besides probing strategic affairs in India’s neighbourhood.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Not An Iota Of Truth’: PM Modi Rubbishes Report Of Restriction On Foreign Travel28 Hostages From Kuki, Naga Communities Held By Armed Groups Released In Manipur’I Am Sorry To…’: Shashi Tharoor To Skip VD Satheesan’s Swearing-In As Kerala CMNEET UG 2026 Re-Exam On June 21, Computer-Based Test Format From Next Year: Education MinisterOman To Gujarat: India Fast-Tracks Deep-Sea Gas Pipeline Project Amid Hormuz CrisisCJI Surya Kant Makes Strong Remarks During Senior Advocate HearingKerala CM-Designate Satheesan Hits Back At BJP Over IUML, Secularism DebateFormer RAW Chief Flags Security Risks Over PM Modi’s Convoy DownsizingTMC MP Derek O’Brien Slams Centre After Petrol-Diesel Hike, Targets Modi Government’Bhojshala Complex Is A Temple, Hindus Have Right To Worship’: MP High Court123PhotostoriesKishwer Merchant recalls her father’s reaction to her interfaith marriage and age gap with Suyyash Rai; reacts to her son being trolled for wearing a skull capLauki vs Tori: Which has more nutrition for summer and 5 interesting ways to eat themAncient Kashmiri beauty secrets that are becoming popular again in IndiaFrom transparent bodies to underground lives: 5 bizarre frogs you’ve probably never heard of8 modern TV unit designs to instantly upgrade your living roomPersonality test: Mango, litchi, watermelon? Pick a fruit and see if you are a natural leader, kind, or creativeCannes 2026:Why Sanam Saeed’s Cannes debut is a major moment for Pakistani cinemaHow to grow butterfly-friendly native plants in Indian city home gardensNot just travel: 10 cheapest countries to retire in — 9 and 10 will surprise you5 adorable dog breeds that stay puppy-sized forever123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingNEET UG Re-Exam dateAdmit card indian army agniveer gdIPL Points TablePM ModiKerala Board SSLC Result 2026IPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026Bengaluru RapeWho is Shubham KhairnarIndia UA Trade Talk

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Seeking a unified, global approach in the fight against narcotics and narco-terror, Home minister Amit Shah Friday said India has chalked out a roadmap to eradicate drug cartels and make itself drug-free by 2047, such that not a single gram of drugs can enter the country or transit through its land or sea…

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CJI on panel to pick CEC not statutory need: Govt

CJI on panel to pick CEC not statutory need: Govt

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Govt, in an affidavit, said the issue is not what the appointment process should be, but whether SC can examine Parliament’s chosen mechanism at all NEW DELHI: Justifying the decision to drop the CJI from the appointment panel for the chief election commissioner and election commissioners (ECs), Centre has told Supreme Court that the Constitution…

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NEW DELHI: In a big boost for the country’s stealth aircraft programme, defence minister Rajnath Singh and Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu on Friday laid the foundation stone for the core integration and flight testing centre at Puttaparthi in Sri Sathya Sai district of the state to fast-track the development of 5th-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and other future indigenous platforms.While the total outlay for the AMCA project is around Rs 15,000 crore, the facility is being established at a cost of Rs 2,000 crore. “Puttaparthi is set to join the exclusive league of global destinations from which a fifth-generation aircraft will take to the skies. It will become the birthplace of an aircraft capable of annihilating the enemy in the blink of an eye,” Rajnath said, calling the stone-laying ceremony as the “historic chapter in India’s defence history”.In another big development, a consortium of eight drone companies have joined forces to establish a Drone City in Kurnool. The defence minister said this region will soon be recognised as the ‘Drone Hub’ of the country.Rajnath and Naidu also laid the foundation stone for the naval systems manufacturing facility, a Rs 480-crore project of Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), at T Sirasapalli village in Anakapalli district to cater to the requirements of advanced underwater weapon and naval combat systems. A defence energetics facility of Agneyastra Energetics Ltd, a subsidiary of Bharat Forge, is also being set up with an investment of Rs 1,500 crore, the defence ministry said. Various companies also exchanged MoUs with the Andhra govt to establish defence units in the state. An ammunition and electric fuse plant of HFCL Limited is also being established with an investment of around Rs 1,200 crore. Addressing a gathering at the event, Rajnath described the commencement of the projects as “truly historic”, asserting that Aatmanirbharta in defence manufacturing is a critical imperative to safeguard national interests in the current era of global turbulence.“These projects will cater to all the branches of the defence forces. Our objective is crystal clear: We are advancing with the resolute goal of achieving self-reliance in the defence sector, ensuring that the three services are future-ready. The projects will prove to be a milestone in the nation’s pursuit of self-reliance and Andhra Pradesh’s journey of development,” the minister said. Rajnath said projects will serve as powerful “growth poles”, resulting in massive employment generation.Praising the Andhra CM for his vision, technological focus and development-driven leadership, Rajnath said, “In my view, when it comes to Mr Naidu, thinking small is simply impossible. And the commitment with which he has worked for the development of Andhra, I want to say with conviction that it has been appreciated not only in India but also on international forums.”CM Naidu, on his part, said the AMCA project reflects the state’s “speed of doing business” as Andhra Pradesh aims to emerge as a major defence manufacturing hub. He commended the efforts of PM Modi and the defence minister towards strengthening India’s defence capabilities and modernising the military with a sustained focus on indigenisation and self-reliance. He stated that the nation’s preparedness and global standing in defence and aerospace sectors have been enhanced due to the continued emphasis on reforms, investment and innovation, the release said.He also described Op Sindoor as a proud example of India’s growing strength and technological progress and expressed confidence that the facilities, for which the foundation stones have been laid, will bolster the defence preparedness of the country and foster growth in the region.Naidu called upon the industries and entrepreneurs to “design-in-Andhra Pradesh, make-in-Andhra Pradesh, lead-from-Andhra Pradesh”, extending the state govt’s full cooperation.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Not An Iota Of Truth’: PM Modi Rubbishes Report Of Restriction On Foreign Travel28 Hostages From Kuki, Naga Communities Held By Armed Groups Released In Manipur’I Am Sorry To…’: Shashi Tharoor To Skip VD Satheesan’s Swearing-In As Kerala CMNEET UG 2026 Re-Exam On June 21, Computer-Based Test Format From Next Year: Education MinisterOman To Gujarat: India Fast-Tracks Deep-Sea Gas Pipeline Project Amid Hormuz CrisisCJI Surya Kant Makes Strong Remarks During Senior Advocate HearingKerala CM-Designate Satheesan Hits Back At BJP Over IUML, Secularism DebateFormer RAW Chief Flags Security Risks Over PM Modi’s Convoy DownsizingTMC MP Derek O’Brien Slams Centre After Petrol-Diesel Hike, Targets Modi Government’Bhojshala Complex Is A Temple, Hindus Have Right To Worship’: MP High Court123PhotostoriesKishwer Merchant recalls her father’s reaction to her interfaith marriage and age gap with Suyyash Rai; reacts to her son being trolled for wearing a skull capLauki vs Tori: Which has more nutrition for summer and 5 interesting ways to eat themAncient Kashmiri beauty secrets that are becoming popular again in IndiaFrom transparent bodies to underground lives: 5 bizarre frogs you’ve probably never heard of8 modern TV unit designs to instantly upgrade your living roomPersonality test: Mango, litchi, watermelon? Pick a fruit and see if you are a natural leader, kind, or creativeCannes 2026:Why Sanam Saeed’s Cannes debut is a major moment for Pakistani cinemaHow to grow butterfly-friendly native plants in Indian city home gardensNot just travel: 10 cheapest countries to retire in — 9 and 10 will surprise you5 adorable dog breeds that stay puppy-sized forever123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingNEET UG Re-Exam dateAdmit card indian army agniveer gdIPL Points TablePM ModiKerala Board SSLC Result 2026IPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026Bengaluru RapeWho is Shubham KhairnarIndia UA Trade Talk

NEW DELHI: In a big boost for the country’s stealth aircraft programme, defence minister Rajnath Singh and Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu on Friday laid the foundation stone for the core integration and flight testing centre at Puttaparthi in Sri Sathya Sai district of the state to fast-track the development of 5th-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and other future indigenous platforms.While the total outlay for the AMCA project is around Rs 15,000 crore, the facility is being established at a cost of Rs 2,000 crore. “Puttaparthi is set to join the exclusive league of global destinations from which a fifth-generation aircraft will take to the skies. It will become the birthplace of an aircraft capable of annihilating the enemy in the blink of an eye,” Rajnath said, calling the stone-laying ceremony as the “historic chapter in India’s defence history”.In another big development, a consortium of eight drone companies have joined forces to establish a Drone City in Kurnool. The defence minister said this region will soon be recognised as the ‘Drone Hub’ of the country.Rajnath and Naidu also laid the foundation stone for the naval systems manufacturing facility, a Rs 480-crore project of Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), at T Sirasapalli village in Anakapalli district to cater to the requirements of advanced underwater weapon and naval combat systems. A defence energetics facility of Agneyastra Energetics Ltd, a subsidiary of Bharat Forge, is also being set up with an investment of Rs 1,500 crore, the defence ministry said. Various companies also exchanged MoUs with the Andhra govt to establish defence units in the state. An ammunition and electric fuse plant of HFCL Limited is also being established with an investment of around Rs 1,200 crore. Addressing a gathering at the event, Rajnath described the commencement of the projects as “truly historic”, asserting that Aatmanirbharta in defence manufacturing is a critical imperative to safeguard national interests in the current era of global turbulence.“These projects will cater to all the branches of the defence forces. Our objective is crystal clear: We are advancing with the resolute goal of achieving self-reliance in the defence sector, ensuring that the three services are future-ready. The projects will prove to be a milestone in the nation’s pursuit of self-reliance and Andhra Pradesh’s journey of development,” the minister said. Rajnath said projects will serve as powerful “growth poles”, resulting in massive employment generation.Praising the Andhra CM for his vision, technological focus and development-driven leadership, Rajnath said, “In my view, when it comes to Mr Naidu, thinking small is simply impossible. And the commitment with which he has worked for the development of Andhra, I want to say with conviction that it has been appreciated not only in India but also on international forums.”CM Naidu, on his part, said the AMCA project reflects the state’s “speed of doing business” as Andhra Pradesh aims to emerge as a major defence manufacturing hub. He commended the efforts of PM Modi and the defence minister towards strengthening India’s defence capabilities and modernising the military with a sustained focus on indigenisation and self-reliance. He stated that the nation’s preparedness and global standing in defence and aerospace sectors have been enhanced due to the continued emphasis on reforms, investment and innovation, the release said.He also described Op Sindoor as a proud example of India’s growing strength and technological progress and expressed confidence that the facilities, for which the foundation stones have been laid, will bolster the defence preparedness of the country and foster growth in the region.Naidu called upon the industries and entrepreneurs to “design-in-Andhra Pradesh, make-in-Andhra Pradesh, lead-from-Andhra Pradesh”, extending the state govt’s full cooperation.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Not An Iota Of Truth’: PM Modi Rubbishes Report Of Restriction On Foreign Travel28 Hostages From Kuki, Naga Communities Held By Armed Groups Released In Manipur’I Am Sorry To…’: Shashi Tharoor To Skip VD Satheesan’s Swearing-In As Kerala CMNEET UG 2026 Re-Exam On June 21, Computer-Based Test Format From Next Year: Education MinisterOman To Gujarat: India Fast-Tracks Deep-Sea Gas Pipeline Project Amid Hormuz CrisisCJI Surya Kant Makes Strong Remarks During Senior Advocate HearingKerala CM-Designate Satheesan Hits Back At BJP Over IUML, Secularism DebateFormer RAW Chief Flags Security Risks Over PM Modi’s Convoy DownsizingTMC MP Derek O’Brien Slams Centre After Petrol-Diesel Hike, Targets Modi Government’Bhojshala Complex Is A Temple, Hindus Have Right To Worship’: MP High Court123PhotostoriesKishwer Merchant recalls her father’s reaction to her interfaith marriage and age gap with Suyyash Rai; reacts to her son being trolled for wearing a skull capLauki vs Tori: Which has more nutrition for summer and 5 interesting ways to eat themAncient Kashmiri beauty secrets that are becoming popular again in IndiaFrom transparent bodies to underground lives: 5 bizarre frogs you’ve probably never heard of8 modern TV unit designs to instantly upgrade your living roomPersonality test: Mango, litchi, watermelon? Pick a fruit and see if you are a natural leader, kind, or creativeCannes 2026:Why Sanam Saeed’s Cannes debut is a major moment for Pakistani cinemaHow to grow butterfly-friendly native plants in Indian city home gardensNot just travel: 10 cheapest countries to retire in — 9 and 10 will surprise you5 adorable dog breeds that stay puppy-sized forever123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingNEET UG Re-Exam dateAdmit card indian army agniveer gdIPL Points TablePM ModiKerala Board SSLC Result 2026IPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026Bengaluru RapeWho is Shubham KhairnarIndia UA Trade Talk

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

NEW DELHI: In a big boost for the country’s stealth aircraft programme, defence minister Rajnath Singh and Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu on Friday laid the foundation stone for the core integration and flight testing centre at Puttaparthi in Sri Sathya Sai district of the state to fast-track the development of 5th-generation Advanced Medium…

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NEW DELHI: Govt on Friday announced that the cancelled NEET-UG 2026 examination will be reconducted on June 21, while also unveiling a major structural reform — shifting the country’s largest medical entrance exam to a computer-based testing (CBT) format from 2027 following the latest paper leak controversy.For the retest — to be conducted on the pen-paper OMR (optical mark recognition) sheet mode — candidates will not have to pay any additional exam fee, while the fee paid for the cancelled May 3 test will be refunded.Addressing his first press conference since the cancellation of the May 3 examination, Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan said that the govt had adopted a “zero tolerance” policy towards examination malpractice.It would not allow “education mafia” to compromise opportunities for genuine students, he added.The National Testing Agency (NTA) had cancelled the earlier examination after allegations surfaced that parts of the question paper had been leaked before the test. The controversy escalated after a so-called “guess paper”, allegedly containing several actual questions, began circulating among candidates in Rajasthan and other states ahead of the exam.Pradhan said authorities confirmed within days that some questions had indeed been compromised. “We admit there was a breach somewhere in the chain of command despite implementing the Radhakrishnan committee recommendations. We take responsibility to fix this,” he said.Calling the cancellation a “difficult but necessary” step, the minister said preserving the credibility and fairness of the admission process was non-negotiable.About the AuthorManash Pratim GohainManash Pratim Gohain is a seasoned journalist with over two decades at The Times of India, where he has built a rich body of work spanning education policy, politics, and governance. Renowned for his incisive coverage of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, accreditation reforms, and skilling initiatives, he has also reported on student politics, urban policy, and social movements. His political reportage—both reflective and news-driven—adds depth to his writing, bridging policy with public impact. Through his 2,500 articles and related outlets, he has emerged as a trusted voice in national discourse, particularly in linking education reform to broader societal change.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Not An Iota Of Truth’: PM Modi Rubbishes Report Of Restriction On Foreign Travel28 Hostages From Kuki, Naga Communities Held By Armed Groups Released In Manipur’I Am Sorry To…’: Shashi Tharoor To Skip VD Satheesan’s Swearing-In As Kerala CMNEET UG 2026 Re-Exam On June 21, Computer-Based Test Format From Next Year: Education MinisterOman To Gujarat: India Fast-Tracks Deep-Sea Gas Pipeline Project Amid Hormuz CrisisCJI Surya Kant Makes Strong Remarks During Senior Advocate HearingKerala CM-Designate Satheesan Hits Back At BJP Over IUML, Secularism DebateFormer RAW Chief Flags Security Risks Over PM Modi’s Convoy DownsizingTMC MP Derek O’Brien Slams Centre After Petrol-Diesel Hike, Targets Modi Government’Bhojshala Complex Is A Temple, Hindus Have Right To Worship’: MP High Court123PhotostoriesKishwer Merchant recalls her father’s reaction to her interfaith marriage and age gap with Suyyash Rai; reacts to her son being trolled for wearing a skull capLauki vs Tori: Which has more nutrition for summer and 5 interesting ways to eat themAncient Kashmiri beauty secrets that are becoming popular again in IndiaFrom transparent bodies to underground lives: 5 bizarre frogs you’ve probably never heard of8 modern TV unit designs to instantly upgrade your living roomPersonality test: Mango, litchi, watermelon? Pick a fruit and see if you are a natural leader, kind, or creativeCannes 2026:Why Sanam Saeed’s Cannes debut is a major moment for Pakistani cinemaHow to grow butterfly-friendly native plants in Indian city home gardensNot just travel: 10 cheapest countries to retire in — 9 and 10 will surprise you5 adorable dog breeds that stay puppy-sized forever123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingNEET UG Re-Exam dateAdmit card indian army agniveer gdIPL Points TablePM ModiKerala Board SSLC Result 2026IPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026Bengaluru RapeWho is Shubham KhairnarIndia UA Trade Talk

NEW DELHI: Govt on Friday announced that the cancelled NEET-UG 2026 examination will be reconducted on June 21, while also unveiling a major structural reform — shifting the country’s largest medical entrance exam to a computer-based testing (CBT) format from 2027 following the latest paper leak controversy.For the retest — to be conducted on the pen-paper OMR (optical mark recognition) sheet mode — candidates will not have to pay any additional exam fee, while the fee paid for the cancelled May 3 test will be refunded.Addressing his first press conference since the cancellation of the May 3 examination, Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan said that the govt had adopted a “zero tolerance” policy towards examination malpractice.It would not allow “education mafia” to compromise opportunities for genuine students, he added.The National Testing Agency (NTA) had cancelled the earlier examination after allegations surfaced that parts of the question paper had been leaked before the test. The controversy escalated after a so-called “guess paper”, allegedly containing several actual questions, began circulating among candidates in Rajasthan and other states ahead of the exam.Pradhan said authorities confirmed within days that some questions had indeed been compromised. “We admit there was a breach somewhere in the chain of command despite implementing the Radhakrishnan committee recommendations. We take responsibility to fix this,” he said.Calling the cancellation a “difficult but necessary” step, the minister said preserving the credibility and fairness of the admission process was non-negotiable.About the AuthorManash Pratim GohainManash Pratim Gohain is a seasoned journalist with over two decades at The Times of India, where he has built a rich body of work spanning education policy, politics, and governance. Renowned for his incisive coverage of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, accreditation reforms, and skilling initiatives, he has also reported on student politics, urban policy, and social movements. His political reportage—both reflective and news-driven—adds depth to his writing, bridging policy with public impact. Through his 2,500 articles and related outlets, he has emerged as a trusted voice in national discourse, particularly in linking education reform to broader societal change.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Not An Iota Of Truth’: PM Modi Rubbishes Report Of Restriction On Foreign Travel28 Hostages From Kuki, Naga Communities Held By Armed Groups Released In Manipur’I Am Sorry To…’: Shashi Tharoor To Skip VD Satheesan’s Swearing-In As Kerala CMNEET UG 2026 Re-Exam On June 21, Computer-Based Test Format From Next Year: Education MinisterOman To Gujarat: India Fast-Tracks Deep-Sea Gas Pipeline Project Amid Hormuz CrisisCJI Surya Kant Makes Strong Remarks During Senior Advocate HearingKerala CM-Designate Satheesan Hits Back At BJP Over IUML, Secularism DebateFormer RAW Chief Flags Security Risks Over PM Modi’s Convoy DownsizingTMC MP Derek O’Brien Slams Centre After Petrol-Diesel Hike, Targets Modi Government’Bhojshala Complex Is A Temple, Hindus Have Right To Worship’: MP High Court123PhotostoriesKishwer Merchant recalls her father’s reaction to her interfaith marriage and age gap with Suyyash Rai; reacts to her son being trolled for wearing a skull capLauki vs Tori: Which has more nutrition for summer and 5 interesting ways to eat themAncient Kashmiri beauty secrets that are becoming popular again in IndiaFrom transparent bodies to underground lives: 5 bizarre frogs you’ve probably never heard of8 modern TV unit designs to instantly upgrade your living roomPersonality test: Mango, litchi, watermelon? Pick a fruit and see if you are a natural leader, kind, or creativeCannes 2026:Why Sanam Saeed’s Cannes debut is a major moment for Pakistani cinemaHow to grow butterfly-friendly native plants in Indian city home gardensNot just travel: 10 cheapest countries to retire in — 9 and 10 will surprise you5 adorable dog breeds that stay puppy-sized forever123Hot PicksCBSE class 12 resultUS Iran warPrateek YadavHaryana election resultForeign outflowNEET exam cancelledTamil Nadu assemblyTop TrendingNEET UG Re-Exam dateAdmit card indian army agniveer gdIPL Points TablePM ModiKerala Board SSLC Result 2026IPL 2026IPL Orange Cap 2026Bengaluru RapeWho is Shubham KhairnarIndia UA Trade Talk

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Govt on Friday announced that the cancelled NEET-UG 2026 examination will be reconducted on June 21, while also unveiling a major structural reform — shifting the country’s largest medical entrance exam to a computer-based testing (CBT) format from 2027 following the latest paper leak controversy.For the retest — to be conducted on the…

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Leo Horoscope Today, May 16, 2026: If you’re considering a purchase for your work, compare prices and check the warranty

Leo Horoscope Today, May 16, 2026: If you’re considering a purchase for your work, compare prices and check the warranty

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

You may find yourself drawn to something sacred or meaningful today. The Sun supports your pride in a good way, and the Moon pushes you toward faith, charity, or a small religious task at home or nearby.Children bring joy. Their support, their questions, even their silly stories will fill your heart with fresh energy. It’s…

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Friendly nations can rely on safe commerce, says Araghchi after meeting EAM; welcomes any positive role by India for peace

Friendly nations can rely on safe commerce, says Araghchi after meeting EAM; welcomes any positive role by India for peace

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

External affairs minister S Jaishankar and his Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi discussed the West Asia conflict and its implications, including the Strait of Hormuz situation, in their first bilateral meeting since the US-Israel and Iran war started in February. Araghchi said later that he had a fruitful engagement with Jaishankar, discussed regional developments and…

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120 Burmese python eggs discovered in Florida’s Everglades

120 Burmese python eggs discovered in Florida’s Everglades

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

A shocking discovery in Florida’s Everglades has once again highlighted the growing threat posed by invasive Burmese pythons in the region. Snake hunter Kevin Pavlidis recently uncovered two neighbouring nests containing around 120 Burmese python eggs in total, according to videos and reports shared online. The discovery quickly went viral, with many viewers expressing alarm…

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Cancer Horoscope Today, May 16, 2026: Businesspersons will find it easy to get orders from different sources

Cancer Horoscope Today, May 16, 2026: Businesspersons will find it easy to get orders from different sources

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

You’ll feel seen today, and it sits well on you. Moon and Jupiter both work to enhance your public persona, so respect comes easily even from people who usually remain neutral.Still, there’s a twist. Your mind may swing between happiness and confusion. One moment you feel confident, the next you doubt yourself. That’s because Mercury…

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Petrol, diesel prices up by Rs 3, CNG by Rs 2, further hike likely; no change in piped gas yet

Petrol, diesel prices up by Rs 3, CNG by Rs 2, further hike likely; no change in piped gas yet

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Amid mounting losses, public sector oil firms announced the much-anticipated increase in petrol and diesel prices, raising it by around Rs 3 a litre across metros on Friday, which was lower than expected. Piped kitchen gas prices were, however, left unchanged.Oil company executives did not rule out the possibility of a further increase…

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John Travolta tears up over honorary Palme d’Or at Cannes Film Festival; makes directorial debut with ‘Propeller One-Way Night Coach’

John Travolta tears up over honorary Palme d’Or at Cannes Film Festival; makes directorial debut with ‘Propeller One-Way Night Coach’

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

John Travolta was surprised with an honorary Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival premiere of his directorial debut Friday.Clad in a white beret, Travolta walked the Cannes red carpet with his 26-year-old daughter Ella Bleu Travolta. The actor wrote, directed and co-produced ‘Propeller One-Way Night Coach’, based on his own 1997 children’s novel.Thierry Fremaux,…

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Aalim Hakim refuses to work with celebrities whose managers ‘mistreat’ crew members; Kajol, Bobby Deol, Arjun Rampal react

Aalim Hakim refuses to work with celebrities whose managers ‘mistreat’ crew members; Kajol, Bobby Deol, Arjun Rampal react

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Celebrity hairstylist Aalim Hakim has taken a strong stand against toxic behaviour in the entertainment industry, announcing that he will no longer work with celebrities whose managers allegedly disrespect or mistreat creative professionals and crew members behind the scenes.The hairstylist shared a powerful note on social media, calling out the growing culture of arrogance and…

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Super-rich NRI who called himself ‘recession-proof’ in 2008 sent to jail: His New Jersey mansion had salt water pool surrounded by imported sand

Super-rich NRI who called himself ‘recession-proof’ in 2008 sent to jail: His New Jersey mansion had salt water pool surrounded by imported sand

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Super-rich NRI Paul Parmar was once known for his lavish lifestyle, 39,000 sqft New Jersey mansion. Parmjit “Paul” Parmar, an Indian-origin investor who once called himself recession-proof as he continued splurging money in 2008, has been sentenced to five years in prison. Parmar pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit securities fraud that involved inflating revenues,…

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15-year-old Canadian boy built a robotic turtle that can detect underwater environmental threats with 96% accuracy

15-year-old Canadian boy built a robotic turtle that can detect underwater environmental threats with 96% accuracy

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

A 15-year-old Canadian named Evan Budz took on a significant challenge in marine conservation. At just fifteen, he came up with the invention of the Bionic Underwater Robotic Turtle (BURT). This invention filled a major gap by incorporating the natural swimming kinematics of snapping turtles, creating an autonomous vehicle that could monitor and assess delicate…

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