May 19, 2026
West Bengal polls: BJP chief Nitin Nabin confident of forming govt, cites 2021 surge | India News

West Bengal polls: BJP chief Nitin Nabin confident of forming govt, cites 2021 surge | India News

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

BJP national president Nitin Nabin (File photo) NEW DELHI: BJP national president Nitin Nabin on Thursday expressed confidence that the party would form its first government in West Bengal, where assembly elections are scheduled for April 23 and 29.Nabin pointed to the party’s strong surge in the 2021 state assembly poll, when it won 77…

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Saudi Arabia’s Hajj Ministry unveils discount initiative for pilgrims via Nusuk Card

Saudi Arabia’s Hajj Ministry unveils discount initiative for pilgrims via Nusuk Card

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Saudi Arabia’s Hajj Ministry unveils discount initiative for pilgrims via Nusuk Card. Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced a new initiative offering deals and discounts for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims through the Nusuk Card, aiming to improve their overall experience during the pilgrimage.The Nusuk Card serves as an official identification for pilgrims…

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The CM vs ex-CM clash between N Rangasamy (left) and V Vaithilingam makes Thattanchavady the most high-profile seat The Union territory of Puducherry, a former French colony, heads to the polls on Thursday, with the ruling All India NR Congress (AINRC)–BJP combine seeking a second straight term in power.The Congress–DMK alliance has emerged as the main challenger to the AINRC-BJP’s National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which also includes the AIADMK and businessman Jose Charles Martin’s newly formed Latchiya Jananagaya Katchi (LJK). Tamil superstar Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is also in the contest, partnering with the Neyam Makkal Kazhagam (NMK), founded by independent MLA G Nehru Kuppusamy. Despite contesting its maiden election, TVK could draw a significant share of votes by leveraging Vijay’s massive popularity.Puducherry: What numbers sayThe Puducherry legislative assembly has 33 seats, of which 30 are filled through direct elections. The remaining three members are nominated by the central government. How parties fared in 2021Following the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), the Union territory’s final electoral roll comprises 944,211 electors. In comparison, the number of eligible voters in the 2021 assembly elections stood at 973,314, of whom 83.8% cast their votes.A total of 294 candidates will be in the fray in the upcoming elections, a drop from 323 in the polls held five years ago. Puducherry assembly polls 2026Chief minister N Rangasamy, who founded the ruling AINRC in February 2011 after quitting the Congress, is contesting from both Thattanchavady and Mangalam. He had also contested from two constituencies in the previous election, winning Thattanchavady but losing in Yanam. How 2021 contest unfoldedA seat-by-seat analysis shows that in 13 constituencies, the winning candidate secured less than 50% of the total votes polled in their constituency.In seven seats, the winning margin was less than 1,000, including four in which it was below 500. For instance, Rangasamy lost by 655 votes to independent candidate Gollapalli Srinivas Ashok in Yanam. The lowest margin was recorded in Karaikal North, with the winner securing only 135 more votes than the runner-up. On the other hand, in the remaining 17 constituencies, each winner secured at least 50% of the total votes polled. Among the winning candidates, only three registered victory margins of 10,000 votes or more. Therefore, given Puducherry’s small population and limited electorate, even slight shifts in vote share can determine the outcome in several constituencies.Seats that can determine 2026 outcomeApart from the closely contested seats in 2021, several high-profile constituencies are also set to play a key role in determining whether the NDA or the Congress–DMK alliance emerges victorious.Thattanchavady: The most high-profile seat is Thattanchavady, as it is likely to play a decisive role in determining Puducherry’s next chief minister. CM Rangasamy is the sitting MLA, and his main challenger is former chief minister V Vaithilingam, who is currently Puducherry’s Lok Sabha MP and the Union territory’s Congress unit president.Rangasamy has won from here five times, defeating CPI nominee K Sethu Selvam by 5,456 votes in the previous assembly polls. Thattanchavady and MangalamMangalam: This is the second constituency contested by Rangasamy, repeating his 2021 strategy when he also contested from Yanam. Mangalam is currently held by the AINRC and was won by its nominee C Djeacoumar, who defeated DMK’s Sun Kumaravel by 2,751 votes.Yanam: Another seat linked with Rangasamy is Yanam, which shares its name with one of the four districts that make up Puducherry. Unique in that the district is surrounded by another state – Andhra Pradesh – Yanam is represented by independent Gollapalli Srinivas Ashok, who defeated the AINRC founder-president in the previous election. Yanam and Mannadipet Mannadipet: BJP leader and Puducherry home minister A Namassivayam is the sitting legislator from Mannadipet, making it another key seat to watch. He is contesting from here again, having won by a margin of 2,750 votes against DMK’s A Krishnan.Indira Nagar: The seat is an AINRC stronghold and has remained with the party since 2011. It has twice been represented by Rangasamy, while the incumbent legislator is AKD Arumugam, whose margin of victory—18,531—was the highest in 2021. Indira Nagar and NedungaduNedungadu: This is another AINRC-dominated seat and has remained with the party since 2011. The current MLA is Chandira Priyanga, who resigned in October 2023 and was the only woman minister in Rangasamy’s cabinet. Priyanga had also won from here in 2016.Raj Bhavan: An urban constituency, the BJP will face a prestige test in Raj Bhavan as its Puducherry unit president, VP Ramalingam, is a candidate here. It is currently held by AINRC’s K Lakshminarayan, who also won in 2011 and 2016. In the outgoing assembly, Ramalingam served as one of three MLAs nominated by the central government. Raj Bhavan and MudaliarpetMudaliarpet: The seat is being contested by BJP’s A Johnkumar against incumbent MLA L Sambath of the DMK. Johnkumar, a minister in chief minister Rangasamy’s cabinet, is a former Congress MLA who won the Kamaraj Nagar constituency twice—first as a Congress candidate and later on a BJP ticket.Karaikal North: Only 135 votes separated the winner from the runner-up in 2021, as AINRC’s PRN Thirumurugan defeated Congress candidate AV Subramanian. Thirumurugan is in the fray again from the seat, which he has won three consecutive times. Karaikal North and BahourBahour: One of the six seats won by the DMK in 2021—when it emerged as the second-largest party and the principal opposition—Bahour is represented by R Senthilkumar of the party led by Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin. The winning margin here (211) was the second lowest, as the DMK nominee defeated AINRC’s N Dhanavelou.Mahe: Like Yanam, Mahe comes under and shares its name with a district that is entirely surrounded by another state—Kerala. The victory margin in the previous election was just 300, the third-lowest that year. A Congress-held seat, it was won by the grand old party’s Ramesh Parambath, who edged out independent challenger N Haridasan Master. Mahe and NellithopeNellithope: Another constituency where the winning margin (496) was below 500 five years ago, Nellithope was won by the BJP. Richards Johnkumar, son of Puducherry minister A Johnkumar, was the victor, while DMK’s V Karthikeyan was the runner-up.In the five Puducherry assembly elections since 2001, voters in the Union territory have not returned an incumbent government to power since the Congress-led alliance did so in 2006. In 2011, the electorate backed the AINRC within months of its formation, but the party was voted out after a single term and replaced by the Congress.What happened in previous yearsIn the five Puducherry assembly elections since 2001, voters in the Union territory have not returned an incumbent government to power since the Congress-led alliance did so in 2006. In 2011, the electorate backed the AINRC within months of its formation, but the party was voted out after a single term and replaced by the Congress.The All India NR Congress secured a second term in 2021 in alliance with the BJP, marking their second electoral partnership in Puducherry since joining hands for the Lok Sabha polls in 2014. In the run-up to the current assembly election, Puducherry’s Union territory status—and the BJP-led Centre’s decision not to grant full statehood—has emerged as a key political issue that could significantly influence the outcome.The counting of votes will take place on May 4, alongside four states—Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal—which are also going to the polls this month.About the AuthorKaran ManralKaran Manral is a journalist at the Times of India. He covers politics, social issues, and international affairs, exploring stories that affect people’s everyday lives. He also writes explainers to make these stories easier for readers to follow.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Bilateral Trade Growing Towards 0 Bn Ambition’: Piyush Goyal At Launch Of India-US Trade PortalIndia 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 US123PhotostoriesTop 5 premium residential areas in Gandhinagar for upscale living10 most brightly coloured birds to spot in Indian forests5 powerful types of daan in Hinduism believed to improve your karmaThursday Special: 6 Things to do for prosperity and positivity8 desi vegetarian breakfast dishes made with Oats10 regional and landscape-inspired home names in India and their meaningsHow to grow karela (bitter gourd) in containers at homeTaking calcium but still have weak bones? Why supplements alone don’t work and what you need to actually improve bone health8 baby girl names inspired by female freedom fightersHow to make Ranveer Brar-Style Biryani ka Masala at home123Hot PicksKerala VotingRaghav ChadhaPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingPope Leo XIVMamata BanerjeeTop Stock RecommendationsCrude Oil PriceMike VrabelMegan Thee StallionSerena WilliamsIPL Points TableSchool Holidays in AprilKarnataka 2nd PUC Exam Result Date

The CM vs ex-CM clash between N Rangasamy (left) and V Vaithilingam makes Thattanchavady the most high-profile seat The Union territory of Puducherry, a former French colony, heads to the polls on Thursday, with the ruling All India NR Congress (AINRC)–BJP combine seeking a second straight term in power.The Congress–DMK alliance has emerged as the main challenger to the AINRC-BJP’s National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which also includes the AIADMK and businessman Jose Charles Martin’s newly formed Latchiya Jananagaya Katchi (LJK). Tamil superstar Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is also in the contest, partnering with the Neyam Makkal Kazhagam (NMK), founded by independent MLA G Nehru Kuppusamy. Despite contesting its maiden election, TVK could draw a significant share of votes by leveraging Vijay’s massive popularity.Puducherry: What numbers sayThe Puducherry legislative assembly has 33 seats, of which 30 are filled through direct elections. The remaining three members are nominated by the central government. How parties fared in 2021Following the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), the Union territory’s final electoral roll comprises 944,211 electors. In comparison, the number of eligible voters in the 2021 assembly elections stood at 973,314, of whom 83.8% cast their votes.A total of 294 candidates will be in the fray in the upcoming elections, a drop from 323 in the polls held five years ago. Puducherry assembly polls 2026Chief minister N Rangasamy, who founded the ruling AINRC in February 2011 after quitting the Congress, is contesting from both Thattanchavady and Mangalam. He had also contested from two constituencies in the previous election, winning Thattanchavady but losing in Yanam. How 2021 contest unfoldedA seat-by-seat analysis shows that in 13 constituencies, the winning candidate secured less than 50% of the total votes polled in their constituency.In seven seats, the winning margin was less than 1,000, including four in which it was below 500. For instance, Rangasamy lost by 655 votes to independent candidate Gollapalli Srinivas Ashok in Yanam. The lowest margin was recorded in Karaikal North, with the winner securing only 135 more votes than the runner-up. On the other hand, in the remaining 17 constituencies, each winner secured at least 50% of the total votes polled. Among the winning candidates, only three registered victory margins of 10,000 votes or more. Therefore, given Puducherry’s small population and limited electorate, even slight shifts in vote share can determine the outcome in several constituencies.Seats that can determine 2026 outcomeApart from the closely contested seats in 2021, several high-profile constituencies are also set to play a key role in determining whether the NDA or the Congress–DMK alliance emerges victorious.Thattanchavady: The most high-profile seat is Thattanchavady, as it is likely to play a decisive role in determining Puducherry’s next chief minister. CM Rangasamy is the sitting MLA, and his main challenger is former chief minister V Vaithilingam, who is currently Puducherry’s Lok Sabha MP and the Union territory’s Congress unit president.Rangasamy has won from here five times, defeating CPI nominee K Sethu Selvam by 5,456 votes in the previous assembly polls. Thattanchavady and MangalamMangalam: This is the second constituency contested by Rangasamy, repeating his 2021 strategy when he also contested from Yanam. Mangalam is currently held by the AINRC and was won by its nominee C Djeacoumar, who defeated DMK’s Sun Kumaravel by 2,751 votes.Yanam: Another seat linked with Rangasamy is Yanam, which shares its name with one of the four districts that make up Puducherry. Unique in that the district is surrounded by another state – Andhra Pradesh – Yanam is represented by independent Gollapalli Srinivas Ashok, who defeated the AINRC founder-president in the previous election. Yanam and Mannadipet Mannadipet: BJP leader and Puducherry home minister A Namassivayam is the sitting legislator from Mannadipet, making it another key seat to watch. He is contesting from here again, having won by a margin of 2,750 votes against DMK’s A Krishnan.Indira Nagar: The seat is an AINRC stronghold and has remained with the party since 2011. It has twice been represented by Rangasamy, while the incumbent legislator is AKD Arumugam, whose margin of victory—18,531—was the highest in 2021. Indira Nagar and NedungaduNedungadu: This is another AINRC-dominated seat and has remained with the party since 2011. The current MLA is Chandira Priyanga, who resigned in October 2023 and was the only woman minister in Rangasamy’s cabinet. Priyanga had also won from here in 2016.Raj Bhavan: An urban constituency, the BJP will face a prestige test in Raj Bhavan as its Puducherry unit president, VP Ramalingam, is a candidate here. It is currently held by AINRC’s K Lakshminarayan, who also won in 2011 and 2016. In the outgoing assembly, Ramalingam served as one of three MLAs nominated by the central government. Raj Bhavan and MudaliarpetMudaliarpet: The seat is being contested by BJP’s A Johnkumar against incumbent MLA L Sambath of the DMK. Johnkumar, a minister in chief minister Rangasamy’s cabinet, is a former Congress MLA who won the Kamaraj Nagar constituency twice—first as a Congress candidate and later on a BJP ticket.Karaikal North: Only 135 votes separated the winner from the runner-up in 2021, as AINRC’s PRN Thirumurugan defeated Congress candidate AV Subramanian. Thirumurugan is in the fray again from the seat, which he has won three consecutive times. Karaikal North and BahourBahour: One of the six seats won by the DMK in 2021—when it emerged as the second-largest party and the principal opposition—Bahour is represented by R Senthilkumar of the party led by Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin. The winning margin here (211) was the second lowest, as the DMK nominee defeated AINRC’s N Dhanavelou.Mahe: Like Yanam, Mahe comes under and shares its name with a district that is entirely surrounded by another state—Kerala. The victory margin in the previous election was just 300, the third-lowest that year. A Congress-held seat, it was won by the grand old party’s Ramesh Parambath, who edged out independent challenger N Haridasan Master. Mahe and NellithopeNellithope: Another constituency where the winning margin (496) was below 500 five years ago, Nellithope was won by the BJP. Richards Johnkumar, son of Puducherry minister A Johnkumar, was the victor, while DMK’s V Karthikeyan was the runner-up.In the five Puducherry assembly elections since 2001, voters in the Union territory have not returned an incumbent government to power since the Congress-led alliance did so in 2006. In 2011, the electorate backed the AINRC within months of its formation, but the party was voted out after a single term and replaced by the Congress.What happened in previous yearsIn the five Puducherry assembly elections since 2001, voters in the Union territory have not returned an incumbent government to power since the Congress-led alliance did so in 2006. In 2011, the electorate backed the AINRC within months of its formation, but the party was voted out after a single term and replaced by the Congress.The All India NR Congress secured a second term in 2021 in alliance with the BJP, marking their second electoral partnership in Puducherry since joining hands for the Lok Sabha polls in 2014. In the run-up to the current assembly election, Puducherry’s Union territory status—and the BJP-led Centre’s decision not to grant full statehood—has emerged as a key political issue that could significantly influence the outcome.The counting of votes will take place on May 4, alongside four states—Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal—which are also going to the polls this month.About the AuthorKaran ManralKaran Manral is a journalist at the Times of India. He covers politics, social issues, and international affairs, exploring stories that affect people’s everyday lives. He also writes explainers to make these stories easier for readers to follow.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos‘Bilateral Trade Growing Towards $500 Bn Ambition’: Piyush Goyal At Launch Of India-US Trade PortalIndia 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 US123PhotostoriesTop 5 premium residential areas in Gandhinagar for upscale living10 most brightly coloured birds to spot in Indian forests5 powerful types of daan in Hinduism believed to improve your karmaThursday Special: 6 Things to do for prosperity and positivity8 desi vegetarian breakfast dishes made with Oats10 regional and landscape-inspired home names in India and their meaningsHow to grow karela (bitter gourd) in containers at homeTaking calcium but still have weak bones? Why supplements alone don’t work and what you need to actually improve bone health8 baby girl names inspired by female freedom fightersHow to make Ranveer Brar-Style Biryani ka Masala at home123Hot PicksKerala VotingRaghav ChadhaPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingPope Leo XIVMamata BanerjeeTop Stock RecommendationsCrude Oil PriceMike VrabelMegan Thee StallionSerena WilliamsIPL Points TableSchool Holidays in AprilKarnataka 2nd PUC Exam Result Date

Vamsikrishna07 mins mins

The CM vs ex-CM clash between N Rangasamy (left) and V Vaithilingam makes Thattanchavady the most high-profile seat The Union territory of Puducherry, a former French colony, heads to the polls on Thursday, with the ruling All India NR Congress (AINRC)–BJP combine seeking a second straight term in power.The Congress–DMK alliance has emerged as the…

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‘Consistency over sixes’: Markram backs Pant, explains Shami’s true value for LSG | Cricket News

‘Consistency over sixes’: Markram backs Pant, explains Shami’s true value for LSG | Cricket News

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Lucknow Super Giants’ Aiden Markram (ANI Photo) KOLKATA: Lucknow Super Giants’ Aiden Markram isn’t the kind of a batter who will go out there and start smacking sixes. He goes about his job without much flourish but delivers what is required. Excerpts from a conversation with South Africa’s white-ball captain…LSG have three players who have…

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IPL 2026: ‘Incredible’ Sooryavanshi wins first round against Bumrah | Cricket News

IPL 2026: ‘Incredible’ Sooryavanshi wins first round against Bumrah | Cricket News

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

Rajasthan Royals’ Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (ANI Photo) GUWAHATI: It’s not just fast bowlers who hunt in pairs. Openers do so too, just like left-handers Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal are doing for Rajasthan Royals this season. In Rajasthan’s second game against Gujarat Titans, the duo became the fastest Indian opening pair to get to 500 IPL…

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NMC directs medical colleges to charge MBBS fees only for 4.5 years, not full course duration: Check details

NMC directs medical colleges to charge MBBS fees only for 4.5 years, not full course duration: Check details

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NMC caps MBBS fees to 4.5 years, bars charges for internship period The National Medical Commission (NMC) has issued a clarification directing all medical colleges and institutions to charge MBBS fees strictly for the prescribed academic duration of 4.5 years, and not for the entire 5 or 5.5 years of the programme.The directive follows complaints…

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‘Jana Nayagan’ OTT deal cancelled? Here’s the official update on the digital rights of Thalapathy Vijay’s film

‘Jana Nayagan’ OTT deal cancelled? Here’s the official update on the digital rights of Thalapathy Vijay’s film

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Rumors of ‘Jana Nayagan’s’ OTT deal cancellation have been officially denied. Zee 5’s Koushik clarified that the digital rights are undecided due to the film’s uncertain theatrical release date, which has been delayed by censorship issues and potential election influences. The film, potentially Vijay’s last before entering politics, awaits a confirmed release. The much-awaited film…

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Panchang Today, April 09, 2026: Krishan Paksh 7 (Saptami), Mula, Shubh Muhurat, Rahu Kaal and More

Panchang Today, April 09, 2026: Krishan Paksh 7 (Saptami), Mula, Shubh Muhurat, Rahu Kaal and More

Vamsikrishna010 mins mins

Panchang Today is your steady daily guide, like a small lamp kept near the prayer corner, helping you plan with precision and calm. Aaj Ka Panchang draws from the Hindu calendar’s living wisdom, mapping the Moon’s mood, the star’s character, and the day’s spiritual rhythm. It’s not only about “good time” and “bad time”. It’s…

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File photo NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday urged voters in Kerala, Assam and Puducherry to turn out in large numbers as polling got underway in the three states.In a post on X, PM Modi emphasised the importance of strong participation in Kerala, calling on voters—especially youth and women—to take part actively in the democratic process.”Record participation will add vigour to Keralam’s democratic spirit. I particularly request the youth and women of the state to step forward and vote in large numbers,” he said.Polling in Kerala will see over 2.6 crore electors deciding the fate of 883 candidates across 140 constituencies. The contest is primarily among the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), and the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).PM Modi also appealed to voters in Puducherry to participate enthusiastically.”As the Puducherry Assembly elections commence, I urge every voter to come out and participate in record numbers. I especially appeal to our youth and to women voters to strengthen the process of democracy. Every vote matters in shaping the future of Puducherry,” he said.The Union Territory has over 10.14 lakh eligible voters who will elect representatives to its 30-member Assembly.In Assam, the Prime Minister called on citizens to exercise their franchise in large numbers, expressing hope that the elections would be marked by high participation.”As polling begins for the Assam Assembly elections 2026, I appeal to the people of Assam to exercise their franchise in large numbers. I hope that the state’s youth and women voters participate enthusiastically and make this election a celebration of democracy and public duty,” he said.More than 2.5 crore voters in Assam are eligible to cast their ballots for the 126-member assembly, with 722 candidates in the fray.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 MediaVideos‘Bilateral Trade Growing Towards 0 Bn Ambition’: Piyush Goyal At Launch Of India-US Trade PortalIndia 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 US123Photostories5 powerful types of daan in Hinduism believed to improve your karmaThursday Special: 6 Things to do for prosperity and positivity8 desi vegetarian breakfast dishes made with Oats10 regional and landscape-inspired home names in India and their meaningsHow to grow karela (bitter gourd) in containers at homeTaking calcium but still have weak bones? Why supplements alone don’t work and what you need to actually improve bone health8 baby girl names inspired by female freedom fightersHow to make Ranveer Brar-Style Biryani ka Masala at home5 interesting ways to use a sandwich maker beyond making sandwichesFrom ‘flying’ to surviving a year without food: 7 snake facts explained123Hot PicksKerala VotingRaghav ChadhaPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingPope Leo XIVMamata BanerjeeTop Stock RecommendationsCrude Oil PriceMike VrabelMegan Thee StallionSerena WilliamsIPL Points TableSchool Holidays in AprilKarnataka 2nd PUC Exam Result Date

File photo NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday urged voters in Kerala, Assam and Puducherry to turn out in large numbers as polling got underway in the three states.In a post on X, PM Modi emphasised the importance of strong participation in Kerala, calling on voters—especially youth and women—to take part actively in the democratic process.”Record participation will add vigour to Keralam’s democratic spirit. I particularly request the youth and women of the state to step forward and vote in large numbers,” he said.Polling in Kerala will see over 2.6 crore electors deciding the fate of 883 candidates across 140 constituencies. The contest is primarily among the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), and the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).PM Modi also appealed to voters in Puducherry to participate enthusiastically.”As the Puducherry Assembly elections commence, I urge every voter to come out and participate in record numbers. I especially appeal to our youth and to women voters to strengthen the process of democracy. Every vote matters in shaping the future of Puducherry,” he said.The Union Territory has over 10.14 lakh eligible voters who will elect representatives to its 30-member Assembly.In Assam, the Prime Minister called on citizens to exercise their franchise in large numbers, expressing hope that the elections would be marked by high participation.”As polling begins for the Assam Assembly elections 2026, I appeal to the people of Assam to exercise their franchise in large numbers. I hope that the state’s youth and women voters participate enthusiastically and make this election a celebration of democracy and public duty,” he said.More than 2.5 crore voters in Assam are eligible to cast their ballots for the 126-member assembly, with 722 candidates in the fray.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 MediaVideos‘Bilateral Trade Growing Towards $500 Bn Ambition’: Piyush Goyal At Launch Of India-US Trade PortalIndia 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 US123Photostories5 powerful types of daan in Hinduism believed to improve your karmaThursday Special: 6 Things to do for prosperity and positivity8 desi vegetarian breakfast dishes made with Oats10 regional and landscape-inspired home names in India and their meaningsHow to grow karela (bitter gourd) in containers at homeTaking calcium but still have weak bones? Why supplements alone don’t work and what you need to actually improve bone health8 baby girl names inspired by female freedom fightersHow to make Ranveer Brar-Style Biryani ka Masala at home5 interesting ways to use a sandwich maker beyond making sandwichesFrom ‘flying’ to surviving a year without food: 7 snake facts explained123Hot PicksKerala VotingRaghav ChadhaPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingPope Leo XIVMamata BanerjeeTop Stock RecommendationsCrude Oil PriceMike VrabelMegan Thee StallionSerena WilliamsIPL Points TableSchool Holidays in AprilKarnataka 2nd PUC Exam Result Date

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday urged voters in Kerala, Assam and Puducherry to turn out in large numbers as polling got underway in the three states.In a post on X, PM Modi emphasised the importance of strong participation in Kerala, calling on voters—especially youth and women—to take part actively in the democratic…

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Stock market today (April 9, 2026): Nifty50 opens below 23,900; BSE Sensex down over 500 points on rising oil prices, US-Iran ceasefire concerns

Stock market today (April 9, 2026): Nifty50 opens below 23,900; BSE Sensex down over 500 points on rising oil prices, US-Iran ceasefire concerns

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Stock market today (AI image) Stock market today: Nifty50 and BSE Sensex opened in red on Thursday, a day after the stock market saw a record single day gain. While Nifty50 went below 23,900, BSE Sensex was down over 500 points. At 9:16 AM, Nifty50 was trading at 23,857.40, down 140 points or 0.59%. BSE…

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Final trailer of ‘Michael’ released, features Jafar Jackson performing ‘King of Pop’s’ greatest hits

Final trailer of ‘Michael’ released, features Jafar Jackson performing ‘King of Pop’s’ greatest hits

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

The curtain rises on the final trailer for ‘Michael,’ the biopic redefining the narrative of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Jaafar Jackson, who happens to be his nephew, steps into the spotlight, delivering stunning renditions of legendary tracks. The final trailer of King of Pop, Michael Jackson’s biopic, ‘Michael’, has been released. The film,…

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Testing by JP Morgan, Apple, Google and 8 other companies that made Anthropic decide it cannot release its latest model Mythos to public

Testing by JP Morgan, Apple, Google and 8 other companies that made Anthropic decide it cannot release its latest model Mythos to public

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Anthropic, the artificial intelligence (AI) startup behind Claude chatbot, has created an AI model, called Claude Mythos Preview, so proficient at finding and exploiting software flaws that itis refusing to release the tool to the general public. The company has taken this step as a measure to keep the technology out of the hands of…

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Updated: Apr 09, 2026, 08:45 IST

Updated: Apr 09, 2026, 08:45 IST

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Daniil Medvedev (Getty Images) Former world No. 1 Daniil Medvedev endured a stunning on-court meltdown as he was thrashed 6-0, 6-0 by Matteo Berrettini at the Monte Carlo Masters on Wednesday.In a moment that quickly went viral, Medvedev lost his temper midway through the second set, smashing his racquet seven successive times on the red…

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‘Flying Bam Bahadur’s pigeon’: PSL trolled over ‘peacemaker act’ amid US-Iran ceasefire | Cricket News

‘Flying Bam Bahadur’s pigeon’: PSL trolled over ‘peacemaker act’ amid US-Iran ceasefire | Cricket News

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

PSL trolled over peacemaker act (Sreengrab/x) The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 found itself at the centre of social media trolling after a symbolic ‘peace’ gesture during 15th match between Peshawar Zalmi and Hyderabad Kingsmen sparked widespread criticism online.Ahead of Match 15 between Peshawar Zalmi and Hyderabad Kingsmen on April 8, a symbolic gesture captured…

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KEAM 2026 admit card released at cee.kerala.gov.in: Check direct link to download hall ticket, exam day guidelines

KEAM 2026 admit card released at cee.kerala.gov.in: Check direct link to download hall ticket, exam day guidelines

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

KEAM 2026 admit card: The Commissioner for Entrance Examinations Kerala (CEE Kerala) has released the admit card for the Kerala Engineering Architecture Medical (KEAM) 2026 examination. Candidates who registered for the state-level entrance test can now download their hall tickets from the official website, cee.kerala.gov.in.The KEAM 2026 examination is scheduled to begin on April 17,…

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