July 17, 2026
Representative image NEW DELHI: India has issued over 500 visas to Afghan nationals in the last four months, including more than 200 medical visas, signalling a calibrated humanitarian push to ensure uninterrupted access to treatment for Afghan patients amid severe constraints in the country’s healthcare system.The visas have been issued since the rollout of a new Afghan visa module in April 2025, with medical cases emerging as a key priority area. Officials said a significant proportion of applicants sought visas for cancer care, trauma management and advanced diagnostics, reflecting Afghanistan’s limited capacity to handle complex and emergency conditions domestically.Linking visa facilitation to broader health support, Union Health Minister J P Nadda, during talks with Afghanistan’s Minister of Public Health Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali, said India would continue providing free treatment in Indian hospitals for Afghan patients with emergency and serious ailments, while ensuring smoother medical visa processing. He said India’s engagement with Afghanistan remains firmly people-centric and guided by humanitarian considerations.The meeting also reviewed India-backed healthcare infrastructure projects in Afghanistan, including five maternity and health clinics in Paktia, Khost and Paktika provinces, a 30-bed hospital in Kabul, and the construction or upgradation of key facilities such as an oncology centre, trauma centre, diagnostic centre and thalassemia centre in the Afghan capital. Additional health sector proposals are under active consideration.India has supplied 327 tonnes of medicines and vaccines to Afghanistan over the past four years. Nadda said cancer medicines and a CT scan machine, requested by the Afghan health ministry, are ready for dispatch and will reach Afghanistan by the end of this month. Requests for a radiotherapy machine and further medical supplies are also being processed.Capacity building was another focus area, with India working on plans to send a team of senior Indian doctors to Afghanistan to conduct a medical camp and train local doctors. The Jaipur Foot camp organised in Kabul in June 2025, where 75 prosthetic limbs were fitted, was cited as a model to be expanded in the coming year.Both sides expressed satisfaction over the pace of cooperation, with India reiterating that visa facilitation, treatment access and healthcare support will remain central to its engagement with the Afghan people.About the AuthorAnuja JaiswalAnuja Jaiswal is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India, with an impressive 18-year career in narrative journalism. She specializes in health and heritage reporting, expertly simplifying complex health information to make it engaging and understandable for readers. Her deep dives into heritage topics are well-researched, resulting in captivating narratives that resonate with her audience. Over the years, she has worked in Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh and West UP, gaining diverse on-ground experience that shapes her storytelling.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPakistan Embarrassed Globally As Saudi Deports 56000 Beggars Despite No Fly Lists And Warnings’Countries Like Us Must Stick Together’: Jaishankar And Dutch FM On Strengthening India-EU Ties’Can’t Breathe, You Are Killing Me’: Trapped Journalist Cries As Dhaka Protesters Torch Media HousesWinter Session Closes As Lok Sabha Skips Pollution Debate A Day After G RAM G Bill Sparks ChaosMidnight Drama Over VB-G RAM G Bill, Opposition Stage Overnight Protest, Sleep Outside ParliamentMuhammad Yunus Calls For Calm And Patience As Hadi Death Sparks Protests Arson And National MourningHadi Death Triggers Overnight Riots In Bangladesh With Arson And Anti-India Fury, Media Targeted’Abrupt Variation In Chenab River Flow’: Pakistan Cries Over Indus Water Treaty Suspension’Asking Since June…’: Priyanka Gandhi, Nitin Gadkari Share ‘Appointment’ Banter In Lok Sabha’Possibilities For Expansion’: Argentinian Envoy On Trade Partnership With India123Photostories5 foods with the highest amount of Vitamin D levels10 morning habits kids must follow for guaranteed success and confidenceBharti Singh, Haarsh Limbachiyaa welcome baby boy: Here’s the list of other TV actors who became parents in 20255 reasons why cartoons may overstimulate newbornsChef Sanjeev Kapoor shares tips to make soft and perfect ragi rotiWhich animal you should feed according to your birth date7 reasons to have broccoli daily in winters and cooking tips that make it taste like heavenMumbai pins hopes on Rs 2,000-crore twin projects to cut Mithi River pollutionNot just eggnog: 5 other delicious drinks made using eggs5 Christmas cakes worth baking, other than the traditional rum cake123Hot Picksvb g ram gICICI Prudential AMCUAE RainGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays DecemberBank Holidays DecemberTop TrendingTravis Kelce Retirement RumorsAnthony Richardson InjuryCAT ResultWNBASan Francisco GiantsCam SkatteboPuka NacuaJake PaulSidney CrosbyGisele Bndchen

Representative image NEW DELHI: India has issued over 500 visas to Afghan nationals in the last four months, including more than 200 medical visas, signalling a calibrated humanitarian push to ensure uninterrupted access to treatment for Afghan patients amid severe constraints in the country’s healthcare system.The visas have been issued since the rollout of a new Afghan visa module in April 2025, with medical cases emerging as a key priority area. Officials said a significant proportion of applicants sought visas for cancer care, trauma management and advanced diagnostics, reflecting Afghanistan’s limited capacity to handle complex and emergency conditions domestically.Linking visa facilitation to broader health support, Union Health Minister J P Nadda, during talks with Afghanistan’s Minister of Public Health Mawlawi Noor Jalal Jalali, said India would continue providing free treatment in Indian hospitals for Afghan patients with emergency and serious ailments, while ensuring smoother medical visa processing. He said India’s engagement with Afghanistan remains firmly people-centric and guided by humanitarian considerations.The meeting also reviewed India-backed healthcare infrastructure projects in Afghanistan, including five maternity and health clinics in Paktia, Khost and Paktika provinces, a 30-bed hospital in Kabul, and the construction or upgradation of key facilities such as an oncology centre, trauma centre, diagnostic centre and thalassemia centre in the Afghan capital. Additional health sector proposals are under active consideration.India has supplied 327 tonnes of medicines and vaccines to Afghanistan over the past four years. Nadda said cancer medicines and a CT scan machine, requested by the Afghan health ministry, are ready for dispatch and will reach Afghanistan by the end of this month. Requests for a radiotherapy machine and further medical supplies are also being processed.Capacity building was another focus area, with India working on plans to send a team of senior Indian doctors to Afghanistan to conduct a medical camp and train local doctors. The Jaipur Foot camp organised in Kabul in June 2025, where 75 prosthetic limbs were fitted, was cited as a model to be expanded in the coming year.Both sides expressed satisfaction over the pace of cooperation, with India reiterating that visa facilitation, treatment access and healthcare support will remain central to its engagement with the Afghan people.About the AuthorAnuja JaiswalAnuja Jaiswal is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India, with an impressive 18-year career in narrative journalism. She specializes in health and heritage reporting, expertly simplifying complex health information to make it engaging and understandable for readers. Her deep dives into heritage topics are well-researched, resulting in captivating narratives that resonate with her audience. Over the years, she has worked in Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh and West UP, gaining diverse on-ground experience that shapes her storytelling.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPakistan Embarrassed Globally As Saudi Deports 56000 Beggars Despite No Fly Lists And Warnings’Countries Like Us Must Stick Together’: Jaishankar And Dutch FM On Strengthening India-EU Ties’Can’t Breathe, You Are Killing Me’: Trapped Journalist Cries As Dhaka Protesters Torch Media HousesWinter Session Closes As Lok Sabha Skips Pollution Debate A Day After G RAM G Bill Sparks ChaosMidnight Drama Over VB-G RAM G Bill, Opposition Stage Overnight Protest, Sleep Outside ParliamentMuhammad Yunus Calls For Calm And Patience As Hadi Death Sparks Protests Arson And National MourningHadi Death Triggers Overnight Riots In Bangladesh With Arson And Anti-India Fury, Media Targeted’Abrupt Variation In Chenab River Flow’: Pakistan Cries Over Indus Water Treaty Suspension’Asking Since June…’: Priyanka Gandhi, Nitin Gadkari Share ‘Appointment’ Banter In Lok Sabha’Possibilities For Expansion’: Argentinian Envoy On Trade Partnership With India123Photostories5 foods with the highest amount of Vitamin D levels10 morning habits kids must follow for guaranteed success and confidenceBharti Singh, Haarsh Limbachiyaa welcome baby boy: Here’s the list of other TV actors who became parents in 20255 reasons why cartoons may overstimulate newbornsChef Sanjeev Kapoor shares tips to make soft and perfect ragi rotiWhich animal you should feed according to your birth date7 reasons to have broccoli daily in winters and cooking tips that make it taste like heavenMumbai pins hopes on Rs 2,000-crore twin projects to cut Mithi River pollutionNot just eggnog: 5 other delicious drinks made using eggs5 Christmas cakes worth baking, other than the traditional rum cake123Hot Picksvb g ram gICICI Prudential AMCUAE RainGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays DecemberBank Holidays DecemberTop TrendingTravis Kelce Retirement RumorsAnthony Richardson InjuryCAT ResultWNBASan Francisco GiantsCam SkatteboPuka NacuaJake PaulSidney CrosbyGisele Bndchen

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: India has issued over 500 visas to Afghan nationals in the last four months, including more than 200 medical visas, signalling a calibrated humanitarian push to ensure uninterrupted access to treatment for Afghan patients amid severe constraints in the country’s healthcare system.The visas have been issued since the rollout of a new Afghan…

Read More
‘Maa Inti Bangaaram’ box office collections day 10: Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s film beats ‘Arundhati’ record; Earns Rs 78.71 crore worldwide

‘Maa Inti Bangaaram’ box office collections day 10: Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s film beats ‘Arundhati’ record; Earns Rs 78.71 crore worldwide

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

‘Maa Inti Bangaaram’ box office collections day 10: Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s film beats ‘Arundhati’ record; Earns Rs 78.71 crore worldwide Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s ‘Maa Inti Bangaaram’ has continued its dream run at the box office. The action-family thriller has delivered another impressive day at the ticket counters, surpassing the lifetime worldwide earnings of Anushka Shetty’s…

Read More
Sushant Singh Rajput’s sister Shweta Singh Kirti claims psychics told her he was ‘murdered by two people’; questions Rhea Chakraborty’s cryptic poem

Sushant Singh Rajput’s sister Shweta Singh Kirti claims psychics told her he was ‘murdered by two people’; questions Rhea Chakraborty’s cryptic poem

Vamsikrishna05 mins mins

Late actor Sushant Singh Rajput’s sister, Shweta Singh Kirti, has reignited conversations surrounding her brother’s tragic death with startling revelations. Speaking in a recent interview, she claimed that two psychics — one based in the United States and another in Mumbai — told her that Sushant was “murdered by two people” and did not die…

Read More
Nod to changes to widen transgender definition

Nod to changes to widen transgender definition

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Cabinet Tuesday approved a proposal to amend the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, seeking to expand the definition of transgender persons in what is being cited as an attempt to make the law more “inclusive” so that all bona fide persons receive benefits and protection.There has been debate over the implementation…

Read More
. NEW DELHI: Calcutta HC holds the key to whether nearly 45 lakh ‘doubtful electors’ will be able to participate in the Bengal assembly elections – their cases being adjudicated by judicial officers in line with SC’s Feb directives. Of the 60 lakh ‘doubtful elector’ cases, 15 lakh have been adjudicated so far, according to reports. CEC Gyanesh Kumar on Sunday said the “learned judges” working as per the HC’s directions will be putting out the supplementary list of names approved for inclusion in the state electoral roll, following which EC will add them back to the final roll. The electors added shall be eligible to vote in the upcoming poll in the state.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: ‘All oil and energy infrastructure will turn to ashes,’ says Iran after US hits Kharg Island’I’m what?’ Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu mocks death rumours, shows off five fingers – watch’Must take care’: Trump urges nations to send warships to Strait of Hormuz as conflict with Iran intensifies Praising SIR and calling it a “massive democratic exercise”, Kumar said it has delivered a pure electoral roll, “a bedrock of democracy”, in line with Article 326. An EC official, however, said the rules require the voters’ list to be frozen on the last date of nomination, with additions allowed till 10 days before that, leaving the remaining period for possible appeals. There is a provision for a two-point appeal process against final roll entries, the first point being the district magistrate and the second and final one, the chief electoral officer of the state or UT concerned. This means that the roll may be frozen on March 27 in respect of 152 assembly constituencies of Bengal covered in the first phase of polling on April 23, and on April 1 for 142 seats scheduled to go to polls on April 29.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 MediaVideosDiscussed Ways To Fast-Track EU FTA With S Jaishankar: Piyush GoyalIndian Vessel ‘Jag Laadki’ Escapes Unhurt After Attack At Fujairah Oil TerminalSTF Arrests Man Who Helped Bangladeshi Murder Suspects Sneak Into India After Dhaka KillingRahul Gandhi Writes To PM Modi, Demands Bharat Ratna For BSP Founder Kanshi RamTMC MP Mahua Moitra Accuses BJP Workers Of Bringing -Jungle Raj- To West Bengal‘Chai-Pakora At Parl Door’: Amit Shah Hits Out At Rahul Gandhi Over LPG Protest, AI Summit Row7 Indian Pilgrims Killed, Several Injured After Bus Slips Off Mountain Road In NepalInfiltration Bid Foiled In J&K: Pakistani Terrorist Killed In Army-Police Joint Operation In Uri‘Because I Am Brahmin…’: Mani Shankar Aiyar Slams BJP, Clarifies ‘Neech Aadmi’ Comment On PM Modi‘Act Of Aggression’: India Strongly Condemns Pakistan’s Air Strikes On Afghanistan123PhotostoriesStomach feels tight after a normal meal? Gastroenterologists explain why digestion can slow down and share simple habits that help ease post-meal bloating7 summer foods Indians traditionally ate to beat the heatAmerican TV sitcoms to watch with friends: ‘Friends’, ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and more10 benefits of eating soaked almonds daily: Dietitians explain how this simple morning habit supports brain, heart and digestive healthSara Tendulkar steps out with new bhabhi Saaniya Chandhok after Arjun Tendulkar’s wedding; their saree looks steal the spotlightThe best romantic comedies on TV: ‘Bhakarwadi’, ‘Anandibaa aur Emily’ and more6 foods that may cause bloating if eaten too often7 architectural features that increase natural light in housesPriyanka Chopra, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan to Rashmika Mandanna: Pan-Indian actresses who conquered multiple film industries10 ways Kathal or Jackfruit is prepared across India123Hot PicksIran war newsLPG crisis in IndiaElection CommissionGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingSanju SamsonBrittany Mahomes Net WorthWilt ChamberlainMovsar EvloevMichael BispingLPG Crisis IndiaAssembly election dateIran US WarIPL 2026 Chennai Super KingsMiddle East War

. NEW DELHI: Calcutta HC holds the key to whether nearly 45 lakh ‘doubtful electors’ will be able to participate in the Bengal assembly elections – their cases being adjudicated by judicial officers in line with SC’s Feb directives. Of the 60 lakh ‘doubtful elector’ cases, 15 lakh have been adjudicated so far, according to reports. CEC Gyanesh Kumar on Sunday said the “learned judges” working as per the HC’s directions will be putting out the supplementary list of names approved for inclusion in the state electoral roll, following which EC will add them back to the final roll. The electors added shall be eligible to vote in the upcoming poll in the state.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: ‘All oil and energy infrastructure will turn to ashes,’ says Iran after US hits Kharg Island’I’m what?’ Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu mocks death rumours, shows off five fingers – watch’Must take care’: Trump urges nations to send warships to Strait of Hormuz as conflict with Iran intensifies Praising SIR and calling it a “massive democratic exercise”, Kumar said it has delivered a pure electoral roll, “a bedrock of democracy”, in line with Article 326. An EC official, however, said the rules require the voters’ list to be frozen on the last date of nomination, with additions allowed till 10 days before that, leaving the remaining period for possible appeals. There is a provision for a two-point appeal process against final roll entries, the first point being the district magistrate and the second and final one, the chief electoral officer of the state or UT concerned. This means that the roll may be frozen on March 27 in respect of 152 assembly constituencies of Bengal covered in the first phase of polling on April 23, and on April 1 for 142 seats scheduled to go to polls on April 29.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 MediaVideosDiscussed Ways To Fast-Track EU FTA With S Jaishankar: Piyush GoyalIndian Vessel ‘Jag Laadki’ Escapes Unhurt After Attack At Fujairah Oil TerminalSTF Arrests Man Who Helped Bangladeshi Murder Suspects Sneak Into India After Dhaka KillingRahul Gandhi Writes To PM Modi, Demands Bharat Ratna For BSP Founder Kanshi RamTMC MP Mahua Moitra Accuses BJP Workers Of Bringing -Jungle Raj- To West Bengal‘Chai-Pakora At Parl Door’: Amit Shah Hits Out At Rahul Gandhi Over LPG Protest, AI Summit Row7 Indian Pilgrims Killed, Several Injured After Bus Slips Off Mountain Road In NepalInfiltration Bid Foiled In J&K: Pakistani Terrorist Killed In Army-Police Joint Operation In Uri‘Because I Am Brahmin…’: Mani Shankar Aiyar Slams BJP, Clarifies ‘Neech Aadmi’ Comment On PM Modi‘Act Of Aggression’: India Strongly Condemns Pakistan’s Air Strikes On Afghanistan123PhotostoriesStomach feels tight after a normal meal? Gastroenterologists explain why digestion can slow down and share simple habits that help ease post-meal bloating7 summer foods Indians traditionally ate to beat the heatAmerican TV sitcoms to watch with friends: ‘Friends’, ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and more10 benefits of eating soaked almonds daily: Dietitians explain how this simple morning habit supports brain, heart and digestive healthSara Tendulkar steps out with new bhabhi Saaniya Chandhok after Arjun Tendulkar’s wedding; their saree looks steal the spotlightThe best romantic comedies on TV: ‘Bhakarwadi’, ‘Anandibaa aur Emily’ and more6 foods that may cause bloating if eaten too often7 architectural features that increase natural light in housesPriyanka Chopra, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan to Rashmika Mandanna: Pan-Indian actresses who conquered multiple film industries10 ways Kathal or Jackfruit is prepared across India123Hot PicksIran war newsLPG crisis in IndiaElection CommissionGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingSanju SamsonBrittany Mahomes Net WorthWilt ChamberlainMovsar EvloevMichael BispingLPG Crisis IndiaAssembly election dateIran US WarIPL 2026 Chennai Super KingsMiddle East War

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Calcutta HC holds the key to whether nearly 45 lakh ‘doubtful electors’ will be able to participate in the Bengal assembly elections – their cases being adjudicated by judicial officers in line with SC’s Feb directives. Of the 60 lakh ‘doubtful elector’ cases, 15 lakh have been adjudicated so far, according to reports….

Read More
‘Love Insurance Kompany’ OTT release CONFIRMED: When and where to stream Pradeep Ranganathan and Krithi Shetty film

‘Love Insurance Kompany’ OTT release CONFIRMED: When and where to stream Pradeep Ranganathan and Krithi Shetty film

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Pradeep Ranganathan starrer ‘Love Insurance Kompany’ is now preparing for its digital debut after completing its theatrical run. The film was released in cinemas on April 10 this year. It is now set to reach a wider audience through OTT.Directed by Vignesh Shivan, the sci-fi romantic comedy stars Pradeep Ranganathan and Krithi Shetty in the…

Read More
Taylor Swift becomes the youngest entry to the Songwriters Hall of Fame; Gene Simmons, Kenny Loggins, and others join the list

Taylor Swift becomes the youngest entry to the Songwriters Hall of Fame; Gene Simmons, Kenny Loggins, and others join the list

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

In a crowning moment for her illustrious career, pop powerhouse Taylor Swift has received an exclusive induction into the revered Songwriters Hall of Fame. This honor places her alongside iconic artists like KISS’s Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, as well as the incomparable Alanis Morissette, all celebrated for their significant contributions to the music scene….

Read More
Pakistani national among 3 arrested in US for attempting to smuggle 89 firearms into Canada

Pakistani national among 3 arrested in US for attempting to smuggle 89 firearms into Canada

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Three men, including a Pakistani national, have been charged in the United States for allegedly attempting to smuggle 89 firearms, including at least 17 reported stolen, from the US into Canada, authorities said.According to a statement issued by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, the arrests followed a traffic…

Read More
Representative image Puducherry is all set to go to the polls on Thursday, April 9, with voting scheduled from 7 AM to 6 PM across 1,099 polling stations in the Union Territory and its enclaves of Karaikal, Mahe, and Yanam. Over 9.5 lakh voters will decide the fate of 294 candidates contesting 30 Assembly seats. Special arrangements have been made for first-time voters, senior citizens, and differently-abled citizens, including volunteers, wheelchairs, Braille ballots, and assistance through the Saksham mobile application.Security and monitoringThe Election Commission has deployed drone surveillance to monitor electoral malpractice, which has already led to the seizure of Rs 77.25 lakh in cash and Rs 68.5 lakh in liquor allegedly intended to influence voters. Security deployment includes 4,836 government personnel, 2,791 police staff, 173 micro-observers, and 2,198 student volunteers. Special polling stations include 30 managed entirely by women, 15 by young officers, and two entirely by persons with disabilities. Watch Puducherry Elections 2026: TVK To Contest Solo, BJP and AINRC Alliance Finalises Seat-Sharing All stations are equipped with seating, drinking water, toilets, ramps, signage, and webcasting facilities to ensure a smooth and transparent voting process.Key contestants and alliancesThe elections will witness a fierce battle between the ruling NDA alliance, comprising NR Congress, BJP, AIADMK, and LJK, and the opposition Congress-DMK bloc. Chief minister N Rangasamy, leading the AINRC, is contesting from Thattanchavady and Mangalam, while actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has emerged as a significant third force, introducing unpredictability in several constituencies. Other parties, including CPI, CPI(M), and Naam Tamizhar Katchi, are also fielding candidates.Also read: Full candidate list for Puducherry pollsMajor issues shaping pollsOne of the central issues is Puducherry’s long-standing demand for full statehood, with the ruling NDA claiming alignment with the Centre ensures smoother governance. The opposition argues that administrative friction with the Lieutenant Governor has limited the Union Territory’s autonomy, making this election a de facto referendum on “lost powers.” Economic concerns, including rising living costs, unemployment, and the proposed privatisation of the electricity department, are also front and centre. The ruling alliance is relying on welfare schemes and subsidies to retain voter trust, while the opposition is highlighting economic challenges and the need for better job opportunities. The entry of TVK has made the contest more fragmented, with vote-splitting potentially decisive in several close-fought constituencies.What’s at stakeVoters across Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe, and Yanam will determine whether the NDA retains its “double engine” governance or whether the opposition bloc and new entrants like TVK reshape the Union Territory’s political landscape. With polling set for April 9 and counting scheduled for May 4, the outcome will signal the future political direction of the region and could set a precedent for how emerging third parties influence small but strategic assemblies.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 MediaVideosIndia Pushes For ‘Freedom Of Navigation’ At Hormuz After Iran-US Ceasefire, Jaishankar Heads To UAE’How Will We Get PoK, Aksai Chin Back?’: Owaisi Slams Modi Govt Over US-Iran CeasefireOil Falls After US-Iran Ceasefire, But Why Indians May Not See Cheaper Fuel Anytime SoonIndia Seeks Return Of Stranded Ships In Hormuz, Evacuation Of 7,500 Indians In Iran After CeasefireIndia’s Theatre Command Plan Nears Reality, Marking Major Shift In WarfightingExplained: Why India’s Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor Is A Game-Changer For Its Nuclear RoadmapEAM Jaishankar Hosts Bangladesh FM Khalilur Rahman For Crucial Bilateral Talks In DelhiDRDO Chief Flags Risks Of Foreign Dependence, Calls For Full-Spectrum Defence Self-Reliance’I Cry When I Think Of Indians’: Iran Supreme Leader’s Rep Hails India After Ceasefire With US‘Hormuz Disruptions Could Hit Growth’: RBI Governor Malhotra Flags Oil, Inflation Risks After MPC123Photostories8 red snakes you won’t believe exist in the wildThese 8 teddy bear-like dogs are so cute you won’t believe they’re realBanarasi outfit ideas beyond sarees inspired by Bollywood celebritiesWhat are the Vedic switch words? know their powerful effects in HinduismAhead of ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ release, let’s revisit Meryl Streep’s other iconic charactersNearly 100 hospitalised after suspected food poisoning: Food storage mistakes that turn dangerous in summerTop 8 Indian real estate hotspots for NRI investors right nowFrom ‘Ramayana’, ‘Cocktail 2’ to ‘Toxic’: A complete look at 2026’s biggest upcoming moviesAs Ranbir Kapoor takes on dual roles in ‘Ramayana’, a look at Bollywood’s finest double role performancesMumbai Metro crosses 100km, overtakes Bengaluru to become India’s second-largest network after Delhi-NCR123Hot PicksShreyas Iyer SisterUpdated IPL Points TablePurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTaylor Swift and Travis Kelce RelationshipIPL 2026Donald TrumpB V NagarathnaRomarioMHT CET Admit cardBengal PollIPL Points TableSchool Holidays in AprilKarnataka 2nd PUC Exam Result Date

Representative image Puducherry is all set to go to the polls on Thursday, April 9, with voting scheduled from 7 AM to 6 PM across 1,099 polling stations in the Union Territory and its enclaves of Karaikal, Mahe, and Yanam. Over 9.5 lakh voters will decide the fate of 294 candidates contesting 30 Assembly seats. Special arrangements have been made for first-time voters, senior citizens, and differently-abled citizens, including volunteers, wheelchairs, Braille ballots, and assistance through the Saksham mobile application.Security and monitoringThe Election Commission has deployed drone surveillance to monitor electoral malpractice, which has already led to the seizure of Rs 77.25 lakh in cash and Rs 68.5 lakh in liquor allegedly intended to influence voters. Security deployment includes 4,836 government personnel, 2,791 police staff, 173 micro-observers, and 2,198 student volunteers. Special polling stations include 30 managed entirely by women, 15 by young officers, and two entirely by persons with disabilities. Watch Puducherry Elections 2026: TVK To Contest Solo, BJP and AINRC Alliance Finalises Seat-Sharing All stations are equipped with seating, drinking water, toilets, ramps, signage, and webcasting facilities to ensure a smooth and transparent voting process.Key contestants and alliancesThe elections will witness a fierce battle between the ruling NDA alliance, comprising NR Congress, BJP, AIADMK, and LJK, and the opposition Congress-DMK bloc. Chief minister N Rangasamy, leading the AINRC, is contesting from Thattanchavady and Mangalam, while actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has emerged as a significant third force, introducing unpredictability in several constituencies. Other parties, including CPI, CPI(M), and Naam Tamizhar Katchi, are also fielding candidates.Also read: Full candidate list for Puducherry pollsMajor issues shaping pollsOne of the central issues is Puducherry’s long-standing demand for full statehood, with the ruling NDA claiming alignment with the Centre ensures smoother governance. The opposition argues that administrative friction with the Lieutenant Governor has limited the Union Territory’s autonomy, making this election a de facto referendum on “lost powers.” Economic concerns, including rising living costs, unemployment, and the proposed privatisation of the electricity department, are also front and centre. The ruling alliance is relying on welfare schemes and subsidies to retain voter trust, while the opposition is highlighting economic challenges and the need for better job opportunities. The entry of TVK has made the contest more fragmented, with vote-splitting potentially decisive in several close-fought constituencies.What’s at stakeVoters across Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe, and Yanam will determine whether the NDA retains its “double engine” governance or whether the opposition bloc and new entrants like TVK reshape the Union Territory’s political landscape. With polling set for April 9 and counting scheduled for May 4, the outcome will signal the future political direction of the region and could set a precedent for how emerging third parties influence small but strategic assemblies.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 MediaVideosIndia Pushes For ‘Freedom Of Navigation’ At Hormuz After Iran-US Ceasefire, Jaishankar Heads To UAE’How Will We Get PoK, Aksai Chin Back?’: Owaisi Slams Modi Govt Over US-Iran CeasefireOil Falls After US-Iran Ceasefire, But Why Indians May Not See Cheaper Fuel Anytime SoonIndia Seeks Return Of Stranded Ships In Hormuz, Evacuation Of 7,500 Indians In Iran After CeasefireIndia’s Theatre Command Plan Nears Reality, Marking Major Shift In WarfightingExplained: Why India’s Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor Is A Game-Changer For Its Nuclear RoadmapEAM Jaishankar Hosts Bangladesh FM Khalilur Rahman For Crucial Bilateral Talks In DelhiDRDO Chief Flags Risks Of Foreign Dependence, Calls For Full-Spectrum Defence Self-Reliance’I Cry When I Think Of Indians’: Iran Supreme Leader’s Rep Hails India After Ceasefire With US‘Hormuz Disruptions Could Hit Growth’: RBI Governor Malhotra Flags Oil, Inflation Risks After MPC123Photostories8 red snakes you won’t believe exist in the wildThese 8 teddy bear-like dogs are so cute you won’t believe they’re realBanarasi outfit ideas beyond sarees inspired by Bollywood celebritiesWhat are the Vedic switch words? know their powerful effects in HinduismAhead of ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ release, let’s revisit Meryl Streep’s other iconic charactersNearly 100 hospitalised after suspected food poisoning: Food storage mistakes that turn dangerous in summerTop 8 Indian real estate hotspots for NRI investors right nowFrom ‘Ramayana’, ‘Cocktail 2’ to ‘Toxic’: A complete look at 2026’s biggest upcoming moviesAs Ranbir Kapoor takes on dual roles in ‘Ramayana’, a look at Bollywood’s finest double role performancesMumbai Metro crosses 100km, overtakes Bengaluru to become India’s second-largest network after Delhi-NCR123Hot PicksShreyas Iyer SisterUpdated IPL Points TablePurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingTaylor Swift and Travis Kelce RelationshipIPL 2026Donald TrumpB V NagarathnaRomarioMHT CET Admit cardBengal PollIPL Points TableSchool Holidays in AprilKarnataka 2nd PUC Exam Result Date

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Puducherry is all set to go to the polls on Thursday, April 9, with voting scheduled from 7 AM to 6 PM across 1,099 polling stations in the Union Territory and its enclaves of Karaikal, Mahe, and Yanam. Over 9.5 lakh voters will decide the fate of 294 candidates contesting 30 Assembly seats. Special arrangements…

Read More
Is Joel Embiid playing tonight vs the Toronto Raptors? Latest update on the Philadelphia 76ers star’s injury report (January 12, 2026)

Is Joel Embiid playing tonight vs the Toronto Raptors? Latest update on the Philadelphia 76ers star’s injury report (January 12, 2026)

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Joel Embiid injury update (Image via NBA) Joel Embiid will not play for the Philadelphia 76ers against the Toronto Raptors on January 12, 2026. The team has ruled him out due to left knee injury management and soreness in his left groin. His absence will end a six-game stretch, which had been his longest run…

Read More
Jennifer Lopez waves goodbye at the airport after performing at a star-studded Udaipur wedding – Watch

Jennifer Lopez waves goodbye at the airport after performing at a star-studded Udaipur wedding – Watch

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Hollywood sensation was in India over the weekend, as she performed at the extravagant wedding of Netra Mantena, daughter of US-based billionaire Rama Raju Mantena, and Vamsi Gadiraju, co-founder of Superorder. Following her power-packed performance, the American actress-singer was spotted at the Udaipur airport, as she waved goodbye to India in the wee hours of…

Read More
UPPSC APO Prelims admit card 2026 released at uppsc.up.nic.in: Direct link to download hall ticket here

UPPSC APO Prelims admit card 2026 released at uppsc.up.nic.in: Direct link to download hall ticket here

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

The Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) has released the admit card for the Assistant Prosecution Officer (APO) Preliminary examination 2026. Candidates who have registered for the recruitment exam can now download their hall tickets from the official website, UPPSC official website.The admit cards were issued today, March 12, 2026 under Advertisement no. A-8/E-1/2025. Candidates…

Read More
US lawmaker Ro Khanna says Israeli settlers armed with US-made rifles detained him in West Bank

US lawmaker Ro Khanna says Israeli settlers armed with US-made rifles detained him in West Bank

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

The Democrat said settlers carrying US-made M4 rifles blocked his group’s vehicle during a visit to the occupied West Bank (File photo) A US Democratic lawmaker has alleged that he was briefly detained by Israeli settlers armed with US-made rifles during a visit to the occupied West Bank.California Representative Ro Khanna said the incident took…

Read More
Happy birthday Rishab Shetty: Birthday celebration video goes viral; Fans call him ‘Man behind the magic’

Happy birthday Rishab Shetty: Birthday celebration video goes viral; Fans call him ‘Man behind the magic’

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Happy Birthday Rishab Shetty: Birthday celebration video goes viral; Fans call him ‘Man behind the magic’ Actor, filmmaker and producer Rishab Shetty is celebrating his birthday today, and fans across the country have come together to mark the occasion. Social media platforms have been flooded with wishes for the Kannada superstar.Adding to the celebrations, a…

Read More