June 19, 2026
NEW DELHI: India and the US have discussed ways to strengthen collaboration in “critical and emerging defence technologies” to meet the evolving requirements at a key meeting hosted here, officials said.Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) hosted the 24th Indo-US Joint Technical Group Plenary Meeting in New Delhi on Feb 3 and 4, they said. As per the statement, the plenary was conducted in line with the vision and policy guidance of the framework for India-US major defence partnership signed by defence minister Rajnath Singh and the US secretary of war Pete Hegseth in Oct 2025. The delegations also reviewed the ongoing cooperation in defence science and technology, discussed associated challenges, and examined proposals to further strengthen collaboration in critical and emerging defence technologies to meet the evolving requirements.The statement further noted that the discussions also focused on enhancing the participation of university-affiliated research centres, defence laboratories and industries in cooperative research and development initiatives. Additionally, the meeting explored potential collaboration between DRDO, and the defence innovation unit under the innovation bridge framework and concluded with the signing of a project agreement.The meeting was co-chaired by director general (production coordination and services interaction), DRDO, Chandrika Kaushik, and assistant secretary of war for critical technologies, office of the under secretary of war for research and engineering, Michael Francis Dodd, the defence ministry said. End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia Reiterates Energy Security Priority, Signals Russia Oil Imports Will ContinueGhaziabad Sisters’ Deaths: Father’s Three Marriages Add Twist To Probe“Deal Favours US farmers” Opposition Attacks India-US Trade FrameworkFrom Tamil Pride To Global Trust: How PM Modi Used Culture To Reset India-Malaysia RelationsPM Modi In Kuala Lumpur Says India Malaysia Ties Are Rising, Unveils IMPACT Vision For Asia”To Benefit Farmers….” Shivraj Singh Chouhan Big Claim On India-US Trade DealPiyush Goyal Says Agriculture Is Self Reliant Sector As India Refuses Farm Import Benefits To USFrom Design To Silicon, India Signals Semiconductor Breakout With Semicon 2.0 RoadmapMP Minister Vijay Shah Finally Apologises For Comment Targeting Op Sindoor Face Col Sofia QureshiTurkey Sides With Pakistan On Kashmir At UN After Sharif’s Rhetoric On India’s ‘Integral’ Territory123PhotostoriesExclusive – Yuvika Choudhary on The 50: I took a break after my daughter’s birth to be there for her; now it’s time for me to return as a working momHow Taylor Swift turned fashion into her signature storytelling powerMukaish to Rabari: Underrated embroidery techniques in India that deserve more attention7 most colourful birds of Indian forestsThe 50: Major Fights That Grabbed Attention5 luxury sports cars that combine comfort with extreme powerThomas Edison once said, “I’ve not failed, I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work”: 4 lessons it teaches students6 celebrities who called out social media as ‘toxic’: Tom Holland, Selena Gomez, Kate Winslet, and moreThe ultimate footwear checklist every girl needs in her closet5 mistakes to avoid when investing in under-construction projects123Hot PicksBudget 2026Gold Silver PricesParliament Budget SessionGCC Unified Visa 2026Income Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingIndia vs USA LiveCooper Kupp WifeKayla NicoleSuper Bowl LX TicketOliver RowlandJustin GaethjeLIV GolfLiam Paro vs Paddy Donovan Net WorthWinter Olympics 2026NBA Trade Update

NEW DELHI: India and the US have discussed ways to strengthen collaboration in “critical and emerging defence technologies” to meet the evolving requirements at a key meeting hosted here, officials said.Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) hosted the 24th Indo-US Joint Technical Group Plenary Meeting in New Delhi on Feb 3 and 4, they said. As per the statement, the plenary was conducted in line with the vision and policy guidance of the framework for India-US major defence partnership signed by defence minister Rajnath Singh and the US secretary of war Pete Hegseth in Oct 2025. The delegations also reviewed the ongoing cooperation in defence science and technology, discussed associated challenges, and examined proposals to further strengthen collaboration in critical and emerging defence technologies to meet the evolving requirements.The statement further noted that the discussions also focused on enhancing the participation of university-affiliated research centres, defence laboratories and industries in cooperative research and development initiatives. Additionally, the meeting explored potential collaboration between DRDO, and the defence innovation unit under the innovation bridge framework and concluded with the signing of a project agreement.The meeting was co-chaired by director general (production coordination and services interaction), DRDO, Chandrika Kaushik, and assistant secretary of war for critical technologies, office of the under secretary of war for research and engineering, Michael Francis Dodd, the defence ministry said. End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia Reiterates Energy Security Priority, Signals Russia Oil Imports Will ContinueGhaziabad Sisters’ Deaths: Father’s Three Marriages Add Twist To Probe“Deal Favours US farmers” Opposition Attacks India-US Trade FrameworkFrom Tamil Pride To Global Trust: How PM Modi Used Culture To Reset India-Malaysia RelationsPM Modi In Kuala Lumpur Says India Malaysia Ties Are Rising, Unveils IMPACT Vision For Asia”To Benefit Farmers….” Shivraj Singh Chouhan Big Claim On India-US Trade DealPiyush Goyal Says Agriculture Is Self Reliant Sector As India Refuses Farm Import Benefits To USFrom Design To Silicon, India Signals Semiconductor Breakout With Semicon 2.0 RoadmapMP Minister Vijay Shah Finally Apologises For Comment Targeting Op Sindoor Face Col Sofia QureshiTurkey Sides With Pakistan On Kashmir At UN After Sharif’s Rhetoric On India’s ‘Integral’ Territory123PhotostoriesExclusive – Yuvika Choudhary on The 50: I took a break after my daughter’s birth to be there for her; now it’s time for me to return as a working momHow Taylor Swift turned fashion into her signature storytelling powerMukaish to Rabari: Underrated embroidery techniques in India that deserve more attention7 most colourful birds of Indian forestsThe 50: Major Fights That Grabbed Attention5 luxury sports cars that combine comfort with extreme powerThomas Edison once said, “I’ve not failed, I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work”: 4 lessons it teaches students6 celebrities who called out social media as ‘toxic’: Tom Holland, Selena Gomez, Kate Winslet, and moreThe ultimate footwear checklist every girl needs in her closet5 mistakes to avoid when investing in under-construction projects123Hot PicksBudget 2026Gold Silver PricesParliament Budget SessionGCC Unified Visa 2026Income Tax CalculatorPublic holidays February 2026Bank Holidays februaryTop TrendingIndia vs USA LiveCooper Kupp WifeKayla NicoleSuper Bowl LX TicketOliver RowlandJustin GaethjeLIV GolfLiam Paro vs Paddy Donovan Net WorthWinter Olympics 2026NBA Trade Update

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: India and the US have discussed ways to strengthen collaboration in “critical and emerging defence technologies” to meet the evolving requirements at a key meeting hosted here, officials said.Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) hosted the 24th Indo-US Joint Technical Group Plenary Meeting in New Delhi on Feb 3 and 4, they said….

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SOF NSO 2025-26 results released at results.sofworld.org/results: Direct link to download here

SOF NSO 2025-26 results released at results.sofworld.org/results: Direct link to download here

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

SOF NSO result 2026: The Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) has announced the National Science Olympiad (NSO) Level 1 results 2025-26. The results have been published online and are also being distributed to schools throughout the country. Students can access their NSO Level 1 results by visiting the official SOF result portal at results. sofworld. org.The…

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US War Department makes important announcement on Google Gemini: Every warfighter…

US War Department makes important announcement on Google Gemini: Every warfighter…

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

The US Department of Defense has launched GenAI.mil, a new AI platform powered by Google Cloud’s Gemini for Government, to equip nearly 3 million personnel with advanced capabilities. This initiative aims for AI technological superiority, enabling tasks like policy summarization and risk assessment. The platform ensures secure, unclassified use, with Google guaranteeing data won’t train…

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India gets a homegrown AI video model

India gets a homegrown AI video model

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins

India’s efforts to build indigenous artificial intelligence models received a boost this week as Avataar AI unveiled Varya, a video generation model designed to better understand Indian cultural contexts while significantly reducing the cost associated with AI video creation.The Bengaluru-based startup, backed by Peak XV Partners and selected under govt’s India AI Mission, said the…

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‘Drishyam 3’ advance booking: Mohanlal and Jeethu Joseph’s thriller crosses Rs 1 crore in Kerala

‘Drishyam 3’ advance booking: Mohanlal and Jeethu Joseph’s thriller crosses Rs 1 crore in Kerala

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

‘Drishyam 3’ has begun its box office journey on an impressive note. The upcoming Malayalam crime thriller is directed by Jeethu Joseph and had Mohanlal in the lead role. It is the third installment in the blockbuster ‘Drishyam’ franchise, following ‘Drishyam’ and ‘Drishyam 2’. Expectations are extremely high for the film. Kerala pre-sales for Mohanlal’s…

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Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin (File photo) NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin on Tuesday issued a sharp warning to the BJP-led central government over the proposed delimitation exercise, saying the state would launch massive protests if any move harmed Tamil Nadu’s interests or disproportionately increased the political influence of northern states.In a video message, Stalin renewed his charge that the delimitation process is being carried out without transparency and without consulting states or political parties. He alleged that the Centre is moving ahead unilaterally on a matter that could significantly alter the balance of political representation.“We do not even know how this delimitation exercise is going to be carried out. No explanation has been provided so far regarding the proposed Constitutional amendment.”He said the lack of clarity had deepened suspicion across southern states, especially Tamil Nadu, where concerns remain high over the possible consequences of population-based seat redistribution.Referring to the special session of Parliament scheduled for April 16, Stalin alleged that it had been “forcibly convened” in the middle of elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, and claimed the Union government intended to push through a constitutional amendment on delimitation without adequate debate.“In this session, the Union government intends to bulldoze through a Constitutional amendment on delimitation,” he alleged.Calling the move a threat to federalism, Stalin said any attempt to reduce Tamil Nadu’s relative political weight would trigger a statewide backlash.“However, if anything is done that harms Tamil Nadu, or that disproportionately enhances the political power of northern states, we in Tamil Nadu will not remain silent,” Stalin was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.The DMK chief warned that the response would go beyond symbolic protest.“Tamil Nadu will register its protest with full force. Every family will take to the streets. Under my leadership as the chief minister of Tamil Nadu, we will organise a massive agitation.”Stalin also cautioned the Centre against assuming that the election season would distract attention from the issue, saying Tamil Nadu was prepared for a larger political confrontation if needed.“You will witness a Tamil Nadu that you have not seen before. India will once again witness the spirit of the DMK of the 1950s and 1960s. Do not mistake this for a threat. This is a warning. Even if you choose to interpret it as a threat, it does not concern us. Yes, this is a warning issued from Tamil Nadu.”Invoking the legacy of DMK founder CN Annadurai and late party patriarch M Karunanidhi, Stalin said the party viewed state rights as more important than electoral considerations.On the birth anniversary of Dr BR Ambedkar, he framed the issue as one of constitutional fairness and federal justice.“If Tamil Nadu is affected, we will make the entire nation take notice. Prime Minister, I repeat, this is the final warning issued to you from Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu will fight; Tamil Nadu will win.”Stalin said the DMK had consistently raised awareness on delimitation and had already brought together chief ministers and opposition leaders from affected states through a Joint Action Committee meeting in Chennai last year.He also pointed out that despite repeated demands, including calls for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to assure Parliament that southern states would not suffer under the new formula, no such assurance had been given.The chief minister added that even requests by MPs from multiple parties to meet the Prime Minister on the issue had been denied, reinforcing what he described as the Centre’s refusal to engage in meaningful consultation.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 MediaVideosDelhi–Dehradun Expressway Inaugurated: How It Cuts Travel Time And Protects WildlifeIndia Engages Israel On Iran And Hormuz Crisis As Jaishankar Pushes Dialogue Amid Rising TensionsWhy Samrat Choudhary Emerges As Likely Bihar CM As BJP Gains Edge With Strong Majority In Assembly‘Gross Injustice If Delayed’: PM Modi Seeks Backing for Women’s Reservation BillHow Secret Police Operation Uncovered Abuse, Coercion, Religious Pressure; Firm Promises ActionAfter Violent Noida Unrest, Uttar Pradesh Govt Raises Wages In Urgent Bid To Restore Calm And TrustNoida Violence Under Scanner As Probe Explores Pakistan Link, 350 People Arrested In CrackdownED Arrests I-Pac Co-Founder Vinesh Chandel; Big Blow To TMC Ahead Of Bengal PollsIndia Receives Iranian Crude After 7 Years Amid Looming US Hormuz Blockade CrisisVikram Misri Holds Key Talks With French FM, Discusses West Asia Conflict, Bilateral Ties123PhotostoriesTop 5 IT hubs in India driving real estate demandArgue without breaking up: 5 simple rules every couple needs to know‘Bhooth Bangla’, ‘Dacoit’ To ‘The Drama’: What to watch in theatres this Week5 things you can bake beyond bread in an OTGIsrael–Lebanon tensions flare again: Inside Hezbollah’s arsenal and Lebanon’s military hand against IsraelBaisakhi 2026 outfit ideas: Traditional looks inspired by Bollywood actressesThese places have the most eerie and bizarre natural formations10 mysteries hidden beneath the ocean floor that scientists still can’t explain8 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin D DeficiencyMumbai’s first closed-door local arrives, big safety shift on tracks123Hot PicksIran warStock market holidayPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingDelhi-Dehradun ExpresswayStock market holidayBank holiday todayKaty PerryAnna Kepner murderDon TzuPraful HingeIPL Points TableKavya MaranNFL news roundup

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin (File photo) NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin on Tuesday issued a sharp warning to the BJP-led central government over the proposed delimitation exercise, saying the state would launch massive protests if any move harmed Tamil Nadu’s interests or disproportionately increased the political influence of northern states.In a video message, Stalin renewed his charge that the delimitation process is being carried out without transparency and without consulting states or political parties. He alleged that the Centre is moving ahead unilaterally on a matter that could significantly alter the balance of political representation.“We do not even know how this delimitation exercise is going to be carried out. No explanation has been provided so far regarding the proposed Constitutional amendment.”He said the lack of clarity had deepened suspicion across southern states, especially Tamil Nadu, where concerns remain high over the possible consequences of population-based seat redistribution.Referring to the special session of Parliament scheduled for April 16, Stalin alleged that it had been “forcibly convened” in the middle of elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, and claimed the Union government intended to push through a constitutional amendment on delimitation without adequate debate.“In this session, the Union government intends to bulldoze through a Constitutional amendment on delimitation,” he alleged.Calling the move a threat to federalism, Stalin said any attempt to reduce Tamil Nadu’s relative political weight would trigger a statewide backlash.“However, if anything is done that harms Tamil Nadu, or that disproportionately enhances the political power of northern states, we in Tamil Nadu will not remain silent,” Stalin was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.The DMK chief warned that the response would go beyond symbolic protest.“Tamil Nadu will register its protest with full force. Every family will take to the streets. Under my leadership as the chief minister of Tamil Nadu, we will organise a massive agitation.”Stalin also cautioned the Centre against assuming that the election season would distract attention from the issue, saying Tamil Nadu was prepared for a larger political confrontation if needed.“You will witness a Tamil Nadu that you have not seen before. India will once again witness the spirit of the DMK of the 1950s and 1960s. Do not mistake this for a threat. This is a warning. Even if you choose to interpret it as a threat, it does not concern us. Yes, this is a warning issued from Tamil Nadu.”Invoking the legacy of DMK founder CN Annadurai and late party patriarch M Karunanidhi, Stalin said the party viewed state rights as more important than electoral considerations.On the birth anniversary of Dr BR Ambedkar, he framed the issue as one of constitutional fairness and federal justice.“If Tamil Nadu is affected, we will make the entire nation take notice. Prime Minister, I repeat, this is the final warning issued to you from Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu will fight; Tamil Nadu will win.”Stalin said the DMK had consistently raised awareness on delimitation and had already brought together chief ministers and opposition leaders from affected states through a Joint Action Committee meeting in Chennai last year.He also pointed out that despite repeated demands, including calls for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to assure Parliament that southern states would not suffer under the new formula, no such assurance had been given.The chief minister added that even requests by MPs from multiple parties to meet the Prime Minister on the issue had been denied, reinforcing what he described as the Centre’s refusal to engage in meaningful consultation.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 MediaVideosDelhi–Dehradun Expressway Inaugurated: How It Cuts Travel Time And Protects WildlifeIndia Engages Israel On Iran And Hormuz Crisis As Jaishankar Pushes Dialogue Amid Rising TensionsWhy Samrat Choudhary Emerges As Likely Bihar CM As BJP Gains Edge With Strong Majority In Assembly‘Gross Injustice If Delayed’: PM Modi Seeks Backing for Women’s Reservation BillHow Secret Police Operation Uncovered Abuse, Coercion, Religious Pressure; Firm Promises ActionAfter Violent Noida Unrest, Uttar Pradesh Govt Raises Wages In Urgent Bid To Restore Calm And TrustNoida Violence Under Scanner As Probe Explores Pakistan Link, 350 People Arrested In CrackdownED Arrests I-Pac Co-Founder Vinesh Chandel; Big Blow To TMC Ahead Of Bengal PollsIndia Receives Iranian Crude After 7 Years Amid Looming US Hormuz Blockade CrisisVikram Misri Holds Key Talks With French FM, Discusses West Asia Conflict, Bilateral Ties123PhotostoriesTop 5 IT hubs in India driving real estate demandArgue without breaking up: 5 simple rules every couple needs to know‘Bhooth Bangla’, ‘Dacoit’ To ‘The Drama’: What to watch in theatres this Week5 things you can bake beyond bread in an OTGIsrael–Lebanon tensions flare again: Inside Hezbollah’s arsenal and Lebanon’s military hand against IsraelBaisakhi 2026 outfit ideas: Traditional looks inspired by Bollywood actressesThese places have the most eerie and bizarre natural formations10 mysteries hidden beneath the ocean floor that scientists still can’t explain8 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin D DeficiencyMumbai’s first closed-door local arrives, big safety shift on tracks123Hot PicksIran warStock market holidayPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingDelhi-Dehradun ExpresswayStock market holidayBank holiday todayKaty PerryAnna Kepner murderDon TzuPraful HingeIPL Points TableKavya MaranNFL news roundup

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin (File photo) NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin on Tuesday issued a sharp warning to the BJP-led central government over the proposed delimitation exercise, saying the state would launch massive protests if any move harmed Tamil Nadu’s interests or disproportionately increased the political influence of northern states.In a…

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Apr 28, 2026, 09:24 IST

Apr 28, 2026, 09:24 IST

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Indian men eased into the quarterfinals of the Thomas Cup with a 5-0 victory against Australia in their second Group A tie in Horsens, Denmark on Monday.The 2022 champions share the top spot in group with defending champions China. While India beat Canada 4-1 on the first day, China blanked Australia 5-0 on April 24…

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‘The White Lotus Season 4’: Why Jason Isaacs feels ‘pure jealousy’ over the show’s location

‘The White Lotus Season 4’: Why Jason Isaacs feels ‘pure jealousy’ over the show’s location

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

‘The White Lotus Season 4’ isn’t just on the way; it’s going bigger, splashier, and honestly, even more jaw-dropping with respect to its brand new locale.Everyone’s talking about the new setting, but there’s another twist: Jason Isaacs, who nailed it as Timothy Ratliff last season, has chimed in with a reaction that’s about as real…

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Lebanese Journalist Killed: Who was Amal Khalil? Lebanese journalist killed in strike as Israel–Hezbollah tensions escalate

Lebanese Journalist Killed: Who was Amal Khalil? Lebanese journalist killed in strike as Israel–Hezbollah tensions escalate

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Lebanese journalist Amal Khalil (File pic) A Lebanese journalist was killed in an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon on Wednesday. Rescue teams recovered her body hours after the attack amid continued hostilities linked to the ongoing Israel–Hezbollah conflict.The reporter, Amal Khalil of Al-Akhbar, had taken shelter in a house in the village of al-Tiri while…

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File photo NEW DELHI: Relaxing existing blanket bans on using several social media apps for its over 11.5 lakh soldiers, Indian Army has now come out with a new policy that allows limited usage.Soldiers can now access Instagram but only for “purposes of viewing and monitoring”. They will, however, not be allowed to post views or comments. Similarly, “exchange of unclassified information of a general nature or content” has been permitted on Skype, WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal. “But information or content can be exchanged only with known persons. The responsibility for correctly identifying the recipients will lie with the users,” an officer said.Only “passive participation” has been permitted to “obtain knowledge or information” on YouTube, X, Quora and Instagram. “Uploading of user-generated content or messages is not permitted. LinkedIn can be used only for uploading a resume and obtaining information on potential employees/employers,” the officer said.The armed forces have been extremely strict with social networking sites to ensure classified information is not compromised, once even getting officers and soldiers to delete Facebook and Instagram accounts.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBangladesh Unrest: Another Hindu Man Lynched; Police Claim Extortion Bid‘Hurt Hindu Sentiments’: Bajrang Dal Protests Outside Bareilly Church, Video Viral‘Bit Late but Strong’: Amit Shah Highlights India’s Semiconductor Industry Growth‘One Family Rule’: PM Modi Slams Congress at Prerna Sthal InaugurationBNP Chairman Tarique Rahman Makes Grand Comeback To Bangladesh, Evokes Martin Luther King In SpeechMajor anti-Naxal success: Rs 1.2-crore bounty Maoist Ganesh Uike among four gunned down in Odisha’Every Indian Is Assaulted When…’: Shashi Tharoor Slams Attacks On Christmas Celebrations In IndiaNitin Gadkari Reveals Shocking Experience of Meeting Hamas Leader Before His Assassination in Iran’You’ll Know Me Now’: Gunman’s Chilling Threat Before Killing AMU Teacher Inside Campus In UPWhy Tarique Rahman’s Return To Dhaka After 17 Years Could Reshape Bangladesh Politics After Hasina123PhotostoriesAvoid making these 5 worst sleep mistakesWhat happens when you practice ‘sideways walking’How to take calcium and magnesium supplements for maximum absorption and why taking them together may not be idealExclusive – From facing blame for breaking the team to claiming Shubhangi Atre copied her Angoori; Shilpa Shinde on Bhabhi Ji Ghar Par Hai, comeback, and comparisonsNew parents of 2025: Chris Evans-Alba Baptista to Millie Bobby Brown-Jake BongioviPost-festive detox: Simple ways to detox your body with turmericWhy South India is the ultimate January escape: 10 places to prove it!Year ender 2025: From Akshaye Khanna, Adarsh Gourav to Sanya Malhotra, actors who redefined their craft beyond the blockbustersFrom fitness to confidence: Why kids should be encouraged to pick up sportsYour Soul’s Biggest Fear Based On Your Birth Date123Hot PicksUAE WeatherPAN-Aadhaar linkingKarbi Anglong CurfewGold rate todayIncome Tax RefundPublic Holidays DecemberBank Holidays DecemberTop TrendingTaylor SwiftPaul RuddPatrick MahomesMegan Thee Stallion Net Worth 2025Travis KelceJoel EmbiidSavannah James Net WorthSophie CunninghamDrew McIntyre and Kaitlyn Frohnapfel Net WorthKhamzat Chimaev

File photo NEW DELHI: Relaxing existing blanket bans on using several social media apps for its over 11.5 lakh soldiers, Indian Army has now come out with a new policy that allows limited usage.Soldiers can now access Instagram but only for “purposes of viewing and monitoring”. They will, however, not be allowed to post views or comments. Similarly, “exchange of unclassified information of a general nature or content” has been permitted on Skype, WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal. “But information or content can be exchanged only with known persons. The responsibility for correctly identifying the recipients will lie with the users,” an officer said.Only “passive participation” has been permitted to “obtain knowledge or information” on YouTube, X, Quora and Instagram. “Uploading of user-generated content or messages is not permitted. LinkedIn can be used only for uploading a resume and obtaining information on potential employees/employers,” the officer said.The armed forces have been extremely strict with social networking sites to ensure classified information is not compromised, once even getting officers and soldiers to delete Facebook and Instagram accounts.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosBangladesh Unrest: Another Hindu Man Lynched; Police Claim Extortion Bid‘Hurt Hindu Sentiments’: Bajrang Dal Protests Outside Bareilly Church, Video Viral‘Bit Late but Strong’: Amit Shah Highlights India’s Semiconductor Industry Growth‘One Family Rule’: PM Modi Slams Congress at Prerna Sthal InaugurationBNP Chairman Tarique Rahman Makes Grand Comeback To Bangladesh, Evokes Martin Luther King In SpeechMajor anti-Naxal success: Rs 1.2-crore bounty Maoist Ganesh Uike among four gunned down in Odisha’Every Indian Is Assaulted When…’: Shashi Tharoor Slams Attacks On Christmas Celebrations In IndiaNitin Gadkari Reveals Shocking Experience of Meeting Hamas Leader Before His Assassination in Iran’You’ll Know Me Now’: Gunman’s Chilling Threat Before Killing AMU Teacher Inside Campus In UPWhy Tarique Rahman’s Return To Dhaka After 17 Years Could Reshape Bangladesh Politics After Hasina123PhotostoriesAvoid making these 5 worst sleep mistakesWhat happens when you practice ‘sideways walking’How to take calcium and magnesium supplements for maximum absorption and why taking them together may not be idealExclusive – From facing blame for breaking the team to claiming Shubhangi Atre copied her Angoori; Shilpa Shinde on Bhabhi Ji Ghar Par Hai, comeback, and comparisonsNew parents of 2025: Chris Evans-Alba Baptista to Millie Bobby Brown-Jake BongioviPost-festive detox: Simple ways to detox your body with turmericWhy South India is the ultimate January escape: 10 places to prove it!Year ender 2025: From Akshaye Khanna, Adarsh Gourav to Sanya Malhotra, actors who redefined their craft beyond the blockbustersFrom fitness to confidence: Why kids should be encouraged to pick up sportsYour Soul’s Biggest Fear Based On Your Birth Date123Hot PicksUAE WeatherPAN-Aadhaar linkingKarbi Anglong CurfewGold rate todayIncome Tax RefundPublic Holidays DecemberBank Holidays DecemberTop TrendingTaylor SwiftPaul RuddPatrick MahomesMegan Thee Stallion Net Worth 2025Travis KelceJoel EmbiidSavannah James Net WorthSophie CunninghamDrew McIntyre and Kaitlyn Frohnapfel Net WorthKhamzat Chimaev

Vamsikrishna01 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Relaxing existing blanket bans on using several social media apps for its over 11.5 lakh soldiers, Indian Army has now come out with a new policy that allows limited usage.Soldiers can now access Instagram but only for “purposes of viewing and monitoring”. They will, however, not be allowed to post views or comments….

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CBSE mandates AI and computational thinking training for 2026–27; new curriculum rolled out for Classes 3–8

CBSE mandates AI and computational thinking training for 2026–27; new curriculum rolled out for Classes 3–8

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has formally notified “Computational Thinking (CT) and Understanding Artificial Intelligence (AI)” as the training theme for the academic session 2026–27. This has been taken as per the guidelines laid down in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023.This clearly…

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Polling for the Jubilee Hills Assembly by-election in Telangana is set for Monday, with over 4.01 lakh voters to cast their ballots. The intense campaign saw top leaders from Congress, BRS, and BJP actively participating. Over 1,700 police personnel and CISF have been deployed to ensure smooth voting, with webcasting at all polling stations. Representational image (PTI file photo) NEW DELHI: Polling for the high-stakes by-election in the Jubilee Hills Assembly constituency in Telangana will take place on Monday. The bypoll was necessitated by the death of sitting BRS MLA Maganti Gopinath earlier this year. The seat has drawn intense attention from all three major parties Congress, BRS, and BJP. Although 58 candidates are contesting, the fight is mainly between the ruling Congress, the BRS, and the BJP. The BRS has nominated Gopinath’s widow, Sunita. The Congress has fielded Naveen Yadav, who also enjoys the support of Asaduddin Owaisi’s AIMIM. The BJP’s candidate is L Deepak Reddy. The campaign has been unusually intense for a bypoll. Chief minister Revanth Reddy camped in the constituency for several days, with all cabinet ministers joining the effort. On the other side, senior BRS leader KT Rama Rao, and Union ministers G Kishan Reddy and Bandi Sanjay Kumar, led roadshows and padayatras, almostWhat to expectVoting will be held from 7 am to 6 pm, and counting of votes is scheduled for November 14.There are over 4.01 lakh registered voters in Jubilee Hills. 2.08 lakh men and 1.92 lakh women. Of the 407 polling stations, 226 have been marked as “critical”, according to Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) commissioner R V Karnan, reported news agency PTI. To ensure smooth voting, over 1,700 police personnel and eight companies of CISF have been deployed. The Hyderabad police will also use “striking” forces, mobile squads, and drone surveillance to maintain law and order.Webcasting will be carried out at all polling stations for live monitoring. Liquor sales have been banned in the constituency from 6 pm on November 9 until 6 pm on polling day, and again from 6 am on November 14 until counting ends.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 MediaVideosTop Bengaluru Jail Official Transferred, 2 Suspended After Viral Videos Spark Outrage23-Year-Old Indian Student Dies In Texas; Family In Andhra Pradesh Appeals For Help To RepatriateEx-RBI Chief Raghuram Rajan Blasts US For Discriminatory Tariffs, Calls Modi-Trump Relation HollowMost-Wanted Indian Gangsters Caught; Sangwan And Bishnoi Networks Face Big Setback in US, GeorgiaUP CM Yogi Adityanath Orders Schools To Sing Vande Mataram Daily, Warns Against ‘New Jinnahs’‘Thar Is Not A Car, It’s A Statement Of Owner’s…’: Haryana DGP Sparks Car-Shaming Row Nationwide300-Kg Explosives, Weapons, Timers: J&K Police Stop Deadly Terror Plot Targeting North India In TimeClinton Family, USAID And Yunus: Sheikh Hasina Aide’s Explosive Allegations On Bangladesh CoupHafiz Saeed’s Lashkar Terrorists Plot Op Sindoor Revenge, Eye Bangladesh To Plot India AttacksDoctor Linked To ISIS-Khorasan Held For Plotting Ricin Mass Attack Across Major Indian Cities123PhotostoriesFrom Yam (Jimikand) to Colocasia (Arbi): 9 types of root vegetables found in IndiaNatasha Poonawalla to Nimrit Kaur: Today’s celebrity fashion moments you can’t missStep into Emraan Hashmi’s beautiful Bandra home, nestled amidst effortless minimal charm’Thugs of Hindostan’ to ‘Kalank’: Bollywood films that failed despite their stellar casts7 conversations you must have with your teenage daughter10 rare phobias that sound too unusual, but are totally real!Inside Faridabad’s shocking 360 kg arms haul: How a woman doctor’s Swift Dzire car hid a terror secretFitness secrets of Rashmika Mandanna: How the ‘Thamma’ star keeps fit amidst a busy scheduleBengaluru’s big push: How Tumakuru’s 2nd Japan industrial park is set to transform Karnataka’s economyCelebrity moms who proved it’s never too late to have a baby123Hot PicksBihar Election CandidatesBihar Election ConstituenciesBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingHafiz SaeedHailee SteinfeldVanessa BryantMarshawn Kneelands GirlfriendMichael Willis Cause of DeathCharlie KirksJuan SotoCandace OwensMLB Trade RumorsMatt Hardy

Polling for the Jubilee Hills Assembly by-election in Telangana is set for Monday, with over 4.01 lakh voters to cast their ballots. The intense campaign saw top leaders from Congress, BRS, and BJP actively participating. Over 1,700 police personnel and CISF have been deployed to ensure smooth voting, with webcasting at all polling stations. Representational image (PTI file photo) NEW DELHI: Polling for the high-stakes by-election in the Jubilee Hills Assembly constituency in Telangana will take place on Monday. The bypoll was necessitated by the death of sitting BRS MLA Maganti Gopinath earlier this year. The seat has drawn intense attention from all three major parties Congress, BRS, and BJP. Although 58 candidates are contesting, the fight is mainly between the ruling Congress, the BRS, and the BJP. The BRS has nominated Gopinath’s widow, Sunita. The Congress has fielded Naveen Yadav, who also enjoys the support of Asaduddin Owaisi’s AIMIM. The BJP’s candidate is L Deepak Reddy. The campaign has been unusually intense for a bypoll. Chief minister Revanth Reddy camped in the constituency for several days, with all cabinet ministers joining the effort. On the other side, senior BRS leader KT Rama Rao, and Union ministers G Kishan Reddy and Bandi Sanjay Kumar, led roadshows and padayatras, almostWhat to expectVoting will be held from 7 am to 6 pm, and counting of votes is scheduled for November 14.There are over 4.01 lakh registered voters in Jubilee Hills. 2.08 lakh men and 1.92 lakh women. Of the 407 polling stations, 226 have been marked as “critical”, according to Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) commissioner R V Karnan, reported news agency PTI. To ensure smooth voting, over 1,700 police personnel and eight companies of CISF have been deployed. The Hyderabad police will also use “striking” forces, mobile squads, and drone surveillance to maintain law and order.Webcasting will be carried out at all polling stations for live monitoring. Liquor sales have been banned in the constituency from 6 pm on November 9 until 6 pm on polling day, and again from 6 am on November 14 until counting ends.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 MediaVideosTop Bengaluru Jail Official Transferred, 2 Suspended After Viral Videos Spark Outrage23-Year-Old Indian Student Dies In Texas; Family In Andhra Pradesh Appeals For Help To RepatriateEx-RBI Chief Raghuram Rajan Blasts US For Discriminatory Tariffs, Calls Modi-Trump Relation HollowMost-Wanted Indian Gangsters Caught; Sangwan And Bishnoi Networks Face Big Setback in US, GeorgiaUP CM Yogi Adityanath Orders Schools To Sing Vande Mataram Daily, Warns Against ‘New Jinnahs’‘Thar Is Not A Car, It’s A Statement Of Owner’s…’: Haryana DGP Sparks Car-Shaming Row Nationwide300-Kg Explosives, Weapons, Timers: J&K Police Stop Deadly Terror Plot Targeting North India In TimeClinton Family, USAID And Yunus: Sheikh Hasina Aide’s Explosive Allegations On Bangladesh CoupHafiz Saeed’s Lashkar Terrorists Plot Op Sindoor Revenge, Eye Bangladesh To Plot India AttacksDoctor Linked To ISIS-Khorasan Held For Plotting Ricin Mass Attack Across Major Indian Cities123PhotostoriesFrom Yam (Jimikand) to Colocasia (Arbi): 9 types of root vegetables found in IndiaNatasha Poonawalla to Nimrit Kaur: Today’s celebrity fashion moments you can’t missStep into Emraan Hashmi’s beautiful Bandra home, nestled amidst effortless minimal charm’Thugs of Hindostan’ to ‘Kalank’: Bollywood films that failed despite their stellar casts7 conversations you must have with your teenage daughter10 rare phobias that sound too unusual, but are totally real!Inside Faridabad’s shocking 360 kg arms haul: How a woman doctor’s Swift Dzire car hid a terror secretFitness secrets of Rashmika Mandanna: How the ‘Thamma’ star keeps fit amidst a busy scheduleBengaluru’s big push: How Tumakuru’s 2nd Japan industrial park is set to transform Karnataka’s economyCelebrity moms who proved it’s never too late to have a baby123Hot PicksBihar Election CandidatesBihar Election ConstituenciesBihar Election 2025Gold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingHafiz SaeedHailee SteinfeldVanessa BryantMarshawn Kneelands GirlfriendMichael Willis Cause of DeathCharlie KirksJuan SotoCandace OwensMLB Trade RumorsMatt Hardy

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Representational image (PTI file photo) NEW DELHI: Polling for the high-stakes by-election in the Jubilee Hills Assembly constituency in Telangana will take place on Monday. The bypoll was necessitated by the death of sitting BRS MLA Maganti Gopinath earlier this year. The seat has drawn intense attention from all three major parties Congress, BRS, and…

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Suicide or foul play? Mystery shrouds Bengaluru techie’s death; decomposed body found in locked flat

Suicide or foul play? Mystery shrouds Bengaluru techie’s death; decomposed body found in locked flat

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Cops suspect techie, found dead under suspicious circumstances in Bengaluru BENGALURU: Police investigating the case of a 34-year-old software engineer, identified as Puja Dutta, who was found dead in a decomposed and naked state inside her rented house in Adugodi Monday night, suspect that she killed herself. However, the probe is on from all possible…

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AI-generated image used for representation NEW DELHI: In world’s largest democracy, election results do not always end the suspense. Sometimes, the real drama begins after the votes are counted — inside the Raj Bhavans.Whenever an assembly election throws up a fractured mandate, the governor takes centrestage and becomes the final arbiter. Political parties rush with letters of support, alliances are stitched overnight, and constitutional debates divide the masses.At the heart of the battle lies one question: Who gets invited first to form the government? The Constitution gives the governor the power to appoint the chief minister under Article 164, but it does not clearly spell out the order in which parties or alliances must be invited. That constitutional grey zone has triggered some of India’s biggest political flashpoints.Numbers test in Tamil NaduOne such flashpoint was in Tamil Nadu recently when people of the state voted for Thalapathy’s ‘vijay’ but the actor-politician’s star performance missed “success” by a whisker.Thalapathy Vijay’s entry into Tamil Nadu’s electoral landscape shook the foundations of Dravidian politics. For nearly six decades, the state had swung between the DMK and the AIADMK. But the 2026 verdict shattered that familiar pattern. Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), barely two years old and contesting its first-ever assembly election, stormed past both Dravidian giants, emerging as the single largest party with 108 seats in the 234-member assembly. The Thalapathy wave was so potent that Tamil Nadu strongman and the then incumbent chief minister MK Stalin failed to even retain his MLA seat.The DMK was pushed down to 59 seats, while the AIADMK slumped to 47. The message from voters was unmistakable: Tamil Nadu wanted change. They did vote for change. But Vijay remained short of the halfway mark of 118 needed to bring about that change on his own.Since Vijay himself had contested and won from two constituencies, the effective strength of the TVK stood at 107. The Congress, with five MLAs, made the first big move. In a dramatic shift, it snapped its 11-year alliance with the DMK and extended support to Vijay. Soon after, the CPM and CPI, with two MLAs each, also backed the TVK from outside. But the numbers still fell short.Then came the rebels and the reluctant allies.AMMK MLA S Kamaraj crossed over to support Vijay’s camp. The VCK and IUML, both initially hesitant despite holding two seats each, eventually joined hands with the TVK after days of suspense-filled negotiations. Only then did Vijay finally gather enough support to cross the majority mark and stake claim to power. The celebrations, that started with the numbers, stopped midway as Vijay started looking for numbers in a hung assembly. The road to Fort St George suddenly became a test not of popularity, but arithmetic. The ball was now in the court of governor Rajendra Arlekar and he wanted to test the numbers. What followed was a week of relentless backroom discussions, persuasion, and political calculations.Raj Bhavan: The final hurdle?The spotlight had now shifted from the cine star to the governor. With a historic verdict and assurance of numbers in hand, Vijay went to the governor hoping to get an invite. But he was asked to show his numbers on paper.Governor Rajendra Arlekar, who was holding additional charge of Tamil Nadu at the time, did not immediately invite Vijay to form the government. The delay triggered intense political and also constitutional debate.The Constitution does not lay down a rigid formula for how governors must exercise their discretionary powers in such situations.Traditionally, governors invite the leader of the single-largest party or a pre-poll alliance capable of proving their majority. But our political history is filled with moments when this constitutional convention collided with the political discretion of the governor, who is often accused of working at the behest of the party ruling at the Centre. (ANI photo)Tamil Nadu in 2026 became the latest chapter in that story.Vijay eventually received the governor’s invitation after all the support letters were in place and the majority was demonstrated in numbers. On May 10 the actor-politician finally took oath as chief minister at Chennai’s Nehru Indoor Stadium becoming the first leader outside the DMK-AIADMK duopoly to occupy the post since 1967.But the number test was still not over. The governor gave him three days to prove his numbers on the floor of the assembly, which he did with ease.The Vijay fever not only swept the masses but also significantly influenced political circles. It went so far that the half-a-century-old party founded by veteran leader MG Ramachandran – AIADMK – split wide open. AIADMK’s current boss and former chief minister Edappadi Palaniswami could not hold back his MLAs, as a large section of the winning chunk emerged as rebels and supported chief minister Vijay in the floor test.For Vijay, it was more than a political victory. It was the climax of a remarkable transition from cinema icon to chief minister. For Tamil Nadu, it marked the collapse of a decades-old political order. And for Indian politics, it was yet another reminder that in democracy, the verdict of the people may decide the destination, but the journey to power can still depend on negotiations, conventions, and the discretion of constitutional offices.What the Constitution saysFormer Lok Sabha secretary general PDT Achary told TOI, “The Governor cannot insist on a floor test before a government is formed. He has the discretionary power to choose any person to form the government. But he should be able to command the majority in the Assembly. The Governor has to judge whether the person he chooses will be able to secure a majority. He can call the leader of the single largest party to form the government provided the Governor is satisfied that he can get a majority in the assembly.”But not everyone agrees on how far those powers extend.Senior advocate and former Delhi HC Bar Association president Kirti Uppal argued that being the single-largest party does not automatically guarantee the first invitation.“There is no constitutional rule or absolute right that the single largest party must be invited first. “Single largest party” is a political convention, not a binding constitutional mandate,” Uppal told TOI. He pointed to Article 163(2), which grants Governors discretionary powers in specific situations.“163(2): If any question arises whether any matter is or is not a matter as respects which the Governor is by or under this Constitution required to act in his discretion, the decision of the governor in his discretion shall be final, and the validity of anything done by the Governor shall not be called in question on the ground that he ought or ought not to have acted in his discretion.”Uppal also defended the use of floor tests as the ultimate democratic check. The governor can order a floor test at any time, whether it is before the government. formation or during the tenure of the ministry. Ultimately, the floor test is considered the supreme democratic method to test the majority of the government on the floor of the house.Senior advocate Kirti UppalHowever, Supreme Court advocate Vivek Narayan Sharma strongly disagreed with the idea of demanding proof of majority before inviting a government to take oath.“The governor cannot insist on a floor test before inviting a party to form the government. A floor test is constitutionally meant to test the majority of a government that has already been appointed, not to determine who gets appointed in the first place,” Sharma told TOI.“The governor’s role at the invitation stage is only prima facie satisfaction, not conclusive adjudication. The Governor may make a prima facie inquiry through letters of support or coalition claims, but cannot insist on a ‘prove majority first, then I will appoint you’ approach as if Raj Bhavan itself were the floor of the House.”Governors vs governments: A history of tussleThat debate is not just theoretical. The instances of friction between governor’s office and elected players are filled up in country’s political history.In Maharashtra in 2019, the state woke up to one of the most dramatic political twists in recent memory. Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari administered an early morning oath to Devendra Fadnavis with support from NCP’s Ajit Pawar. The surprise government collapsed within days after numbers failed to add up.When BJP ally Shiv Sena under Uddhav Thackeray withdrew its support and added up with Congress and other faction of NCP to form their own government.A year earlier in Karnataka, governor Vajubhai Vala invited veteran leader BS Yediyurappa to form the government despite the Congress-JD(S) alliance claiming majority support. The Supreme Court had to step in and order an immediate floor test.In Goa and Manipur in 2017, Congress emerged as the single-largest party, yet Governors invited BJP leaders after post-poll alliances shifted the numbers game.The tension between Governors and elected governments has not remained limited to hung assemblies.In Arunachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand in 2016, political crises spiralled into full-blown constitutional battles involving governors, rebel MLAs and the Centre. In both cases, courts later restored the elected governments.The Article 356 debateAny discussion on the role of governors will be incomplete without a discussion on Article 356. There was a time when this provision of the Constitution was used with impunity to destabilize state governments, especially if they were opposed to the party that ruled at the Centre.Article 356 allows the President’s rule to be imposed in a state if constitutional machinery collapsed. And the basis of this was usually the governor’s report. One of the earliest and most controversial examples came in 1959, when the first-ever elected communist government led by EMS Namboodiripad in Kerala was dismissed.The landmark SR Bommai vs Union of India judgment later imposed major checks on the arbitrary use of Article 356, making floor tests the gold standard for proving majority and opening President’s Rule to judicial review.History is replete with instances when governors have used their discretion to dismiss state governments.Governors’ interference has long been criticised, with critics arguing that since they are appointed by the Centre, they often act in a partisan manner against opposition-ruled states.Yet, every time election results produce a hung verdict, the same political and constitutional questions return. How much discretion should a governor have? Can constitutional authority override political arithmetic? And ultimately, who truly decides the mandate — the assembly floor or Raj Bhavan?About the AuthorAbhishek MishraAbhishek Mishra is a Digital Content Producer at The Times of India, working with the news desk. He writes with a keen eye on foreign policy, defence developments, and the shifting currents of geopolitics-and yes, Indian politics always finds a way onto his radar too.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosHumayun Kabir’s Cow Slaughter Remarks Trigger Political Row Over Qurbani And Law In West BengalUnion Home Minister Amit Shah Calls For Strong Action To End Illegal Infiltration Across BordersMankind Pharma May Raise Condom Prices As Middle East Conflict Pushes Oil Costs Higher | WatchIndian Army Issues Fake Alert Over AAP-RJD’s Viral Presser, Says They Are Spreading MisinformationMuslim Clerics Across India Appeal For Restraint On Cow Sacrifice Ahead Of Eid-al-AdhaOn The Ground Viral ‘Cockroach Janta Party’ sparks buzz in Delhi: Real shift or social media storm?Why Shashi Tharoor Thinks The Viral ‘Cockroach Janata Party’ Reflects India’s Youth AngerPunjab Police Bust Suspected Spy Network; CCTV Camera Allegedly Used To Monitor Army MovementDelhi Government Issues Strict Bakrid Guidelines, Warns Of Criminal Action Over ViolationsVenezuela Overtakes Saudi Arabia As India’s Third-Largest Oil Supplier Amid Global Energy Turmoil123Photostories5 cooling essential oils perfect for stressful summer daysAshish Nehra’s luxurious Goa home is a multi-crore home designed for peaceful family living, away from fast-paced cricketing world5 giant fish that rule the ocean10 subtle mind games people play (And how to spot them)Gym wear to innerwear: How often should you wash your clothesCannes 2026: While others screamed for attention, Diana Penty let butter-yellow elegance do the talking at the French RivieraHow to make Mango Cookie for weekend indulgence5 fiber-rich yellow-colored foods can be the best addition to the daily dietBell Peppers vs Oranges: Which one really gives you more vitamin C?5 sugary drinks that are secretly ruining your skin123Hot PicksBandra demolition driveIPL Schedule 2026Vinesh PhogatUP HeatwaveHardoi fireNID DAT counselling 2026TN Ministers ListTop TrendingTN Finance Minister Marie WilsonNID DAT counsellingChristiano RonaldoPM ModiHardik PandyaJEE Advanced Response SheetIPL Orange Cap 2026Conor McGregor Net WorthNEET UG Paper LeakWest Bengal Annapurna Yojana

AI-generated image used for representation NEW DELHI: In world’s largest democracy, election results do not always end the suspense. Sometimes, the real drama begins after the votes are counted — inside the Raj Bhavans.Whenever an assembly election throws up a fractured mandate, the governor takes centrestage and becomes the final arbiter. Political parties rush with letters of support, alliances are stitched overnight, and constitutional debates divide the masses.At the heart of the battle lies one question: Who gets invited first to form the government? The Constitution gives the governor the power to appoint the chief minister under Article 164, but it does not clearly spell out the order in which parties or alliances must be invited. That constitutional grey zone has triggered some of India’s biggest political flashpoints.Numbers test in Tamil NaduOne such flashpoint was in Tamil Nadu recently when people of the state voted for Thalapathy’s ‘vijay’ but the actor-politician’s star performance missed “success” by a whisker.Thalapathy Vijay’s entry into Tamil Nadu’s electoral landscape shook the foundations of Dravidian politics. For nearly six decades, the state had swung between the DMK and the AIADMK. But the 2026 verdict shattered that familiar pattern. Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), barely two years old and contesting its first-ever assembly election, stormed past both Dravidian giants, emerging as the single largest party with 108 seats in the 234-member assembly. The Thalapathy wave was so potent that Tamil Nadu strongman and the then incumbent chief minister MK Stalin failed to even retain his MLA seat.The DMK was pushed down to 59 seats, while the AIADMK slumped to 47. The message from voters was unmistakable: Tamil Nadu wanted change. They did vote for change. But Vijay remained short of the halfway mark of 118 needed to bring about that change on his own.Since Vijay himself had contested and won from two constituencies, the effective strength of the TVK stood at 107. The Congress, with five MLAs, made the first big move. In a dramatic shift, it snapped its 11-year alliance with the DMK and extended support to Vijay. Soon after, the CPM and CPI, with two MLAs each, also backed the TVK from outside. But the numbers still fell short.Then came the rebels and the reluctant allies.AMMK MLA S Kamaraj crossed over to support Vijay’s camp. The VCK and IUML, both initially hesitant despite holding two seats each, eventually joined hands with the TVK after days of suspense-filled negotiations. Only then did Vijay finally gather enough support to cross the majority mark and stake claim to power. The celebrations, that started with the numbers, stopped midway as Vijay started looking for numbers in a hung assembly. The road to Fort St George suddenly became a test not of popularity, but arithmetic. The ball was now in the court of governor Rajendra Arlekar and he wanted to test the numbers. What followed was a week of relentless backroom discussions, persuasion, and political calculations.Raj Bhavan: The final hurdle?The spotlight had now shifted from the cine star to the governor. With a historic verdict and assurance of numbers in hand, Vijay went to the governor hoping to get an invite. But he was asked to show his numbers on paper.Governor Rajendra Arlekar, who was holding additional charge of Tamil Nadu at the time, did not immediately invite Vijay to form the government. The delay triggered intense political and also constitutional debate.The Constitution does not lay down a rigid formula for how governors must exercise their discretionary powers in such situations.Traditionally, governors invite the leader of the single-largest party or a pre-poll alliance capable of proving their majority. But our political history is filled with moments when this constitutional convention collided with the political discretion of the governor, who is often accused of working at the behest of the party ruling at the Centre. (ANI photo)Tamil Nadu in 2026 became the latest chapter in that story.Vijay eventually received the governor’s invitation after all the support letters were in place and the majority was demonstrated in numbers. On May 10 the actor-politician finally took oath as chief minister at Chennai’s Nehru Indoor Stadium becoming the first leader outside the DMK-AIADMK duopoly to occupy the post since 1967.But the number test was still not over. The governor gave him three days to prove his numbers on the floor of the assembly, which he did with ease.The Vijay fever not only swept the masses but also significantly influenced political circles. It went so far that the half-a-century-old party founded by veteran leader MG Ramachandran – AIADMK – split wide open. AIADMK’s current boss and former chief minister Edappadi Palaniswami could not hold back his MLAs, as a large section of the winning chunk emerged as rebels and supported chief minister Vijay in the floor test.For Vijay, it was more than a political victory. It was the climax of a remarkable transition from cinema icon to chief minister. For Tamil Nadu, it marked the collapse of a decades-old political order. And for Indian politics, it was yet another reminder that in democracy, the verdict of the people may decide the destination, but the journey to power can still depend on negotiations, conventions, and the discretion of constitutional offices.What the Constitution saysFormer Lok Sabha secretary general PDT Achary told TOI, “The Governor cannot insist on a floor test before a government is formed. He has the discretionary power to choose any person to form the government. But he should be able to command the majority in the Assembly. The Governor has to judge whether the person he chooses will be able to secure a majority. He can call the leader of the single largest party to form the government provided the Governor is satisfied that he can get a majority in the assembly.”But not everyone agrees on how far those powers extend.Senior advocate and former Delhi HC Bar Association president Kirti Uppal argued that being the single-largest party does not automatically guarantee the first invitation.“There is no constitutional rule or absolute right that the single largest party must be invited first. “Single largest party” is a political convention, not a binding constitutional mandate,” Uppal told TOI. He pointed to Article 163(2), which grants Governors discretionary powers in specific situations.“163(2): If any question arises whether any matter is or is not a matter as respects which the Governor is by or under this Constitution required to act in his discretion, the decision of the governor in his discretion shall be final, and the validity of anything done by the Governor shall not be called in question on the ground that he ought or ought not to have acted in his discretion.”Uppal also defended the use of floor tests as the ultimate democratic check. The governor can order a floor test at any time, whether it is before the government. formation or during the tenure of the ministry. Ultimately, the floor test is considered the supreme democratic method to test the majority of the government on the floor of the house.Senior advocate Kirti UppalHowever, Supreme Court advocate Vivek Narayan Sharma strongly disagreed with the idea of demanding proof of majority before inviting a government to take oath.“The governor cannot insist on a floor test before inviting a party to form the government. A floor test is constitutionally meant to test the majority of a government that has already been appointed, not to determine who gets appointed in the first place,” Sharma told TOI.“The governor’s role at the invitation stage is only prima facie satisfaction, not conclusive adjudication. The Governor may make a prima facie inquiry through letters of support or coalition claims, but cannot insist on a ‘prove majority first, then I will appoint you’ approach as if Raj Bhavan itself were the floor of the House.”Governors vs governments: A history of tussleThat debate is not just theoretical. The instances of friction between governor’s office and elected players are filled up in country’s political history.In Maharashtra in 2019, the state woke up to one of the most dramatic political twists in recent memory. Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari administered an early morning oath to Devendra Fadnavis with support from NCP’s Ajit Pawar. The surprise government collapsed within days after numbers failed to add up.When BJP ally Shiv Sena under Uddhav Thackeray withdrew its support and added up with Congress and other faction of NCP to form their own government.A year earlier in Karnataka, governor Vajubhai Vala invited veteran leader BS Yediyurappa to form the government despite the Congress-JD(S) alliance claiming majority support. The Supreme Court had to step in and order an immediate floor test.In Goa and Manipur in 2017, Congress emerged as the single-largest party, yet Governors invited BJP leaders after post-poll alliances shifted the numbers game.The tension between Governors and elected governments has not remained limited to hung assemblies.In Arunachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand in 2016, political crises spiralled into full-blown constitutional battles involving governors, rebel MLAs and the Centre. In both cases, courts later restored the elected governments.The Article 356 debateAny discussion on the role of governors will be incomplete without a discussion on Article 356. There was a time when this provision of the Constitution was used with impunity to destabilize state governments, especially if they were opposed to the party that ruled at the Centre.Article 356 allows the President’s rule to be imposed in a state if constitutional machinery collapsed. And the basis of this was usually the governor’s report. One of the earliest and most controversial examples came in 1959, when the first-ever elected communist government led by EMS Namboodiripad in Kerala was dismissed.The landmark SR Bommai vs Union of India judgment later imposed major checks on the arbitrary use of Article 356, making floor tests the gold standard for proving majority and opening President’s Rule to judicial review.History is replete with instances when governors have used their discretion to dismiss state governments.Governors’ interference has long been criticised, with critics arguing that since they are appointed by the Centre, they often act in a partisan manner against opposition-ruled states.Yet, every time election results produce a hung verdict, the same political and constitutional questions return. How much discretion should a governor have? Can constitutional authority override political arithmetic? And ultimately, who truly decides the mandate — the assembly floor or Raj Bhavan?About the AuthorAbhishek MishraAbhishek Mishra is a Digital Content Producer at The Times of India, working with the news desk. He writes with a keen eye on foreign policy, defence developments, and the shifting currents of geopolitics-and yes, Indian politics always finds a way onto his radar too.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosHumayun Kabir’s Cow Slaughter Remarks Trigger Political Row Over Qurbani And Law In West BengalUnion Home Minister Amit Shah Calls For Strong Action To End Illegal Infiltration Across BordersMankind Pharma May Raise Condom Prices As Middle East Conflict Pushes Oil Costs Higher | WatchIndian Army Issues Fake Alert Over AAP-RJD’s Viral Presser, Says They Are Spreading MisinformationMuslim Clerics Across India Appeal For Restraint On Cow Sacrifice Ahead Of Eid-al-AdhaOn The Ground Viral ‘Cockroach Janta Party’ sparks buzz in Delhi: Real shift or social media storm?Why Shashi Tharoor Thinks The Viral ‘Cockroach Janata Party’ Reflects India’s Youth AngerPunjab Police Bust Suspected Spy Network; CCTV Camera Allegedly Used To Monitor Army MovementDelhi Government Issues Strict Bakrid Guidelines, Warns Of Criminal Action Over ViolationsVenezuela Overtakes Saudi Arabia As India’s Third-Largest Oil Supplier Amid Global Energy Turmoil123Photostories5 cooling essential oils perfect for stressful summer daysAshish Nehra’s luxurious Goa home is a multi-crore home designed for peaceful family living, away from fast-paced cricketing world5 giant fish that rule the ocean10 subtle mind games people play (And how to spot them)Gym wear to innerwear: How often should you wash your clothesCannes 2026: While others screamed for attention, Diana Penty let butter-yellow elegance do the talking at the French RivieraHow to make Mango Cookie for weekend indulgence5 fiber-rich yellow-colored foods can be the best addition to the daily dietBell Peppers vs Oranges: Which one really gives you more vitamin C?5 sugary drinks that are secretly ruining your skin123Hot PicksBandra demolition driveIPL Schedule 2026Vinesh PhogatUP HeatwaveHardoi fireNID DAT counselling 2026TN Ministers ListTop TrendingTN Finance Minister Marie WilsonNID DAT counsellingChristiano RonaldoPM ModiHardik PandyaJEE Advanced Response SheetIPL Orange Cap 2026Conor McGregor Net WorthNEET UG Paper LeakWest Bengal Annapurna Yojana

Vamsikrishna09 mins mins

AI-generated image used for representation NEW DELHI: In world’s largest democracy, election results do not always end the suspense. Sometimes, the real drama begins after the votes are counted — inside the Raj Bhavans.Whenever an assembly election throws up a fractured mandate, the governor takes centrestage and becomes the final arbiter. Political parties rush with…

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