VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html ‘Antisemitism is here, real and growing’: Keir Starmer vows to protect Jewish community after Golders Green attack NEW DELHI: Assam assembly elections concluded in one phase on April 9, recording a turnout of over 85%, one of the highest in recent years. In a crucial contest in Assam, the Bharatiya Janata Party, under chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, is seeking a third straight term. Meanwhile, the Congress has mounted a determined effort to regain ground in the state, led by Gaurav Gogoi, son of former chief minister Tarun Gogoi and currently the deputy leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha.When and where to watchEarly trends will start to take shape from 8am on May 4 as counting begins across all 126 constituencies in the state. Real-time data will be available on the Election Commission’s website, along with live updates, analysis, and seat counts on The Times of India.Follow full coverage of elections hereWhat exit polls predictExit polls released on Wednesday evening for the closely watched Assam contest suggest a clear majority for the incumbent government led by Himanta Biswa Sarma, with most pollsters backing the BJP to win a third consecutive term in the tea-producing state. The projections place the Congress on the sidelines, leaving the party in a weaker position and offering little boost to its campaign led by Gaurav Gogoi in Assam. Overall, estimates from various agencies indicate a comfortable victory for the BJP-led government, pointing to a likely third straight term for the party under Himanta Biswa Sarma.How counting is doneThe counting process is carried out in an organised and closely supervised manner. It begins with the counting of postal ballots, after which votes recorded in Electronic Voting Machines are taken up. For each constituency, counting happens in several rounds, with updates released after every round. Once all rounds are finished and verified, the returning officer announces the final result. Security at counting centres is strict, with strong rooms under constant guard and entry limited to authorised personnel and representatives of candidates. While Electronic Voting Machines enable quicker vote tabulation, the need for verification and round-by-round counting means the entire process continues throughout the day.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 MediaVideosVietnam President To Lam’s First State Visit To India: What It Means For New Delhi-Hanoi TiesPune Rape-Murder Case: CM Fadnavis Assures Fast-Track Trial, Targets Oppn Over ‘Cash-for-Transfer’Nishant Kumar Begins Sadbhav Yatra from Patna, Says Aim is Worker Outreach & Public ConnectIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data Inclusion123PhotostoriesWhere snakes hide around your home: 7 surprising spots in your house and garden you should never ignore5 best summer fabrics for men to beat the heatwave5 offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect for a peaceful holiday”My moong dal chilla sticks to the pan”: 5 easy fixes to make crispy and non-sticky chillaBest ways to mole- and rat-proof your home and gardenVictoria Beckham and David Beckham: All about the high-profile romance, cheating rumours, renewed vows and moreDiljit Dosanjh fashion: 5 iconic looks that broke style rulesFrom firing near Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Cafe to Bishnoi gang’s warning: All you need to know about the ongoing controversyThe 10-minute smart freezer tricks you will wish you knew before every vacationAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap SRH opt to bat against KKR in Hyderabad; Two changes each, still no Pathirana in XI Nestle India flags cost volatility, bets on volume-led growth despite global risks HPSC HCS prelims result 2026 released at hpsc.gov.in: Direct link to download PDF here Anupam Kher reflects on his 55-year journey, says an actor’s face becomes a ‘reservoir’ of experience Cancer Patient Support: ‘I never imagined so many people would come…’: Young, lonely cancer patient ‘orders company’ via food app, riders show up Top signs that you have a strong sixth sense and strong spiritual energy Diljit Dosanjh halts Canada show midway, slams fans waving pro-Khalistan flags ‘jinne jhande dikhane dilkhai challo’ Saudi Arabia arrests over 11,000 for residency, labour, border violations in nationwide crackdown | World News NEW DELHI: For decades, politics in Tamil Nadu has revolved around two Dravidian giants — DMK and AIADMK.Election after election, new entrants have tried to break this duopoly, but most have struggled to make a lasting impact.In the 2026 assembly elections, the bipolar contest was disrupted by a high-profile cinematic entry, as actor-turned-politician Vijay Thalapathy positioned himself as an alternative for the people in the state.Bihar’s Prashant Kishor or Delhi’s Kejriwal?In the run-up to the polls, Vijay’s political entry has drawn comparisons with two “startup” experiments — Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party and Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj.When Prashant Kishor entered Bihar’s electoral arena with Jan Suraaj, he attempted to challenge entrenched caste politics with a pitch focused on governance failures, migration and jobs. The message resonated, but votes did not follow.His party drew a blank in the Bihar assembly elections despite contesting all 243 seats.In contrast, Arvind Kejriwal quit his government job and launched Aam Aadmi Party after the India Against Corruption movement. In its first electoral outing, the party won 28 of 70 seats in Delhi and went on to dominate subsequent elections.Does Vijay stand a chance?Tamil Nadu’s political contest has largely been shaped by fronts led by DMK and AIADMK. Since 1967, power has alternated between these two, with smaller parties aligning with either side.This time, however, the race appears to be shifting towards a three-way contest, as a significant section of voters has remained outside the two main blocs.In 2016, AIADMK won 134 seats with over 40 per cent vote share, while DMK secured 89 seats with 32.1 per cent. Nearly 20 per cent of votes went to other parties, including BJP and Left.A similar trend played out in 2021. AIADMK-BJP alliance secured 39.71 per cent vote share, while DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance garnered around 45 per cent.In both elections, roughly one-fifth of the electorate voted outside the two dominant alliances. This 15–20 per cent unaligned vote remains critical for any third force.However, that does not automatically mean these votes will consolidate behind TVK.What exit polls suggestMost projections place TVK in the 10–24 seat range — a notable debut, but one that positions it more as a spoiler than a principal contender.P-Marq and Matrize estimate 10–12 seats, while Peoples Pulse projects 18–24, indicating traction among urban and younger voters.In such a scenario, Vijay’s party could split anti-incumbency votes, indirectly benefiting DMK.Axis MyIndia, however, offers a dramatic outlier, projecting 98–120 seats for TVK — numbers that, if realised on May 4, would propel Vijay to the centre of Tamil Nadu politics overnight.Even so, Tamil Nadu’s electoral landscape remains deeply rooted in Dravidian politics, strong party organisation and long-standing voter loyalties. Translating popularity into votes requires booth-level strength — an area where established players like DMK and AIADMK still hold an advantage.So, will Vijay be able to convert momentum into a mandate? Or will his debut mirror the fate of many other political experiments in Tamil Nadu?The answer will be clear on May 4.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 MediaVideosVietnam President To Lam’s First State Visit To India: What It Means For New Delhi-Hanoi TiesPune Rape-Murder Case: CM Fadnavis Assures Fast-Track Trial, Targets Oppn Over ‘Cash-for-Transfer’Nishant Kumar Begins Sadbhav Yatra from Patna, Says Aim is Worker Outreach & Public ConnectIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data Inclusion123PhotostoriesWhere snakes hide around your home: 7 surprising spots in your house and garden you should never ignore5 best summer fabrics for men to beat the heatwave5 offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect for a peaceful holiday”My moong dal chilla sticks to the pan”: 5 easy fixes to make crispy and non-sticky chillaBest ways to mole- and rat-proof your home and gardenVictoria Beckham and David Beckham: All about the high-profile romance, cheating rumours, renewed vows and moreDiljit Dosanjh fashion: 5 iconic looks that broke style rulesFrom firing near Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Cafe to Bishnoi gang’s warning: All you need to know about the ongoing controversyThe 10-minute smart freezer tricks you will wish you knew before every vacationAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap Leather, footwear sector seeks duty relief as Middle East crisis drives up input costs Allegations by PhD scholar at IIT Ropar intensify; institute places professor on leave, changes supervisor Actress Kelly Brook on the ongoing Ant and Dec feud: Ends rumors and says ‘There was no awkwardness’ 10 common behaviours that quietly ruin first impressions ‘MPs who switched to BJP targeted’: Raghav Chadha accuses Punjab govt of political vendetta, to meet President Droupadi Murmu on May 5 NEW DELHI: The political battle for Assam will enter its decisive stage with the counting of votes on Monday, determining whether the BJP-led NDA secures a third consecutive term or the Congress stages a comeback after a high-voltage campaign centred on identity politics, welfare delivery and regional aspirations.A total of 722 candidates are in the fray across 126 assembly constituencies. Congress has fielded the highest number of candidates at 99, followed by the BJP with 90. The AIUDF has 30 candidates, while NDA allies Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and Bodo Peoples’ Front (BPF) have fielded 26 and 11 nominees respectively.Among other players, Raijor Dal contested 13 seats, Assam Jatiya Parishad (AJP) 10, CPI(M) three, and the All Party Hill Leaders Conference (APHLC) two. The Aam Aadmi Party and United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL) contested 18 seats each, the Trinamool Congress 22, and the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) 16. There are also 258 Independent candidates.High-profile faces in the fraySeveral key leaders will have their electoral fate decided on May 4, including chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Congress state president Gaurav Gogoi, AGP’s Atul Bora, Assembly Speaker Biswajit Daimary, leader of the opposition Debabrata Saikia, AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal, Raijor Dal leader Akhil Gogoi, and AJP chief Lurinjyoti Gogoi.Sarma is seeking a third consecutive term from Jalukbari, a seat he has represented multiple times. In the 2021 elections, he won by a record margin, securing 130,762 votes and a 73.52% vote share against Congress candidate Romen Chandra Borthakur.Gaurav Gogoi, shifting from national to state politics, is contesting from Jorhat and is seen as a key face of the Congress’s push to regain ground in upper Assam.In Tamulpur, the performance of Assembly Speaker Biswajit Daimary will be closely watched as a test of the BJP-UPPL alliance in the Bodoland Territorial Region. Debabrata Saikia is aiming to retain Nazira, a constituency long associated with his family’s political legacy.AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal is contesting from Binnakandi, looking to consolidate minority votes, while in Sivasagar, Akhil Gogoi continues to be a strong grassroots figure, having won the seat in 2021 as an Independent with 57,219 votes.Lurinjyoti Gogoi is contesting from Khowang, seeking to convert student-led regional mobilisation into electoral success. Meanwhile, AGP president Atul Bora is in the fray from Bokakhat, and senior minister Keshab Mahanta is contesting from Kaliabor.In Mazbat, BPF’s Charan Boro is attempting to revive the party’s influence in the Bodo belt, making it another closely watched contest.The BJP-led NDA includes AGP and BPF as key allies, while the opposition bloc comprises Congress, Raijor Dal, AJP, CPI(M), APHLC and CPI(ML).In the outgoing Assembly, the BJP holds 64 seats, with allies AGP (9), UPPL (7) and BPF (3). The opposition includes Congress (26), AIUDF (15), CPI(M) (1) and one Independent MLA.Tight security for countingCounting will take place at 40 centres across all 35 districts under heavy security. Electronic voting machines (EVMs) containing votes of over 2.5 crore electors will be opened amid strict monitoring.Twenty-five companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been deployed to guard counting centres and strongrooms, while around 800 additional unarmed police personnel will assist in transporting EVMs. Authorities have also stationed 93 companies of state armed police and 85 assault groups to handle any untoward incidents.Counting in Nagaon will be conducted at three centres, while Kokrajhar, Tinsukia and Jorhat will each have two counting locations. Polling for the Assembly elections was held on April 9, with a robust voter turnout of 85.96 per cent. Among the candidates, 59 are women.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 MediaVideosVietnam President To Lam’s First State Visit To India: What It Means For New Delhi-Hanoi TiesPune Rape-Murder Case: CM Fadnavis Assures Fast-Track Trial, Targets Oppn Over ‘Cash-for-Transfer’Nishant Kumar Begins Sadbhav Yatra from Patna, Says Aim is Worker Outreach & Public ConnectIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data Inclusion123PhotostoriesWhere snakes hide around your home: 7 surprising spots in your house and garden you should never ignore5 best summer fabrics for men to beat the heatwave5 offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect for a peaceful holiday”My moong dal chilla sticks to the pan”: 5 easy fixes to make crispy and non-sticky chillaBest ways to mole- and rat-proof your home and gardenVictoria Beckham and David Beckham: All about the high-profile romance, cheating rumours, renewed vows and moreDiljit Dosanjh fashion: 5 iconic looks that broke style rulesFrom firing near Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Cafe to Bishnoi gang’s warning: All you need to know about the ongoing controversyThe 10-minute smart freezer tricks you will wish you knew before every vacationAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap Not CSK or RCB! Mumbai Indians become the first team in T20 cricket to… OPaL Apprentice recruitment 2026: Registration window opens at opalindia.in; check eligibility, direct link to apply Konkona Sen Sharma pin points big-budget films still prioritise male heroes: ‘Big films still favour..’ Vinesh Phogat drops bombshell, reveals identity as one of six victims allegedly harassed by Brij Bhushan Singh BENGALURU: Bengaluru-based space startup GalaxEye placed its first commercial satellite — Drishti — in orbit aboard SpaceX’s Falcon-9 rocket on Sunday. Terming it the “world’s first OptoSAR satellite”, the firm said the launch was a milestone in the advancement of Earth observation technologies and reinforcing India’s growing capabilities in the global space sector.“Weighing 190kg, Mission Drishti is India’s largest privately developed Earth observation satellite. It is the first satellite globally to integrate Electro-Optical (EO) and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) sensors into a single operational platform, enabling all-weather, day-and-night imaging capabilities,” the firm said.Drishti, which can “see” through clouds, darkness and bad weather while also capturing conventional optical imagery, carries what the company calls a “SyncFused OptoSAR” payload, combining electro-optical imaging and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) on a single platform. Optical satellites provide conventional high-resolution images but are affected by cloud cover and darkness. Radar satellites, on the other hand, can operate day and night and penetrate clouds, smoke and rain, though their imagery is harder to interpret.By synchronising and combining both streams of data, GalaxEye says the satellite can generate more consistent and usable imagery for users on the ground.The spacecraft is expected to support applications ranging from border surveillance and defence monitoring to disaster response, agriculture, infrastructure planning and insurance assessment. During floods, cyclones or landslides, for instance, radar imaging can continue functioning even when cloud cover prevents optical satellites from capturing images.“Another key feature onboard is artificial intelligence processing powered by Nvidia’s Jetson Orin computing platform. Instead of transmitting vast quantities of raw imagery back to Earth for analysis, parts of the processing will happen directly in orbit. The idea is to reduce the time taken to convert satellite imagery into actionable information,” GalaxEye co-founder and CEO Suyash Singh told TOI.GalaxEye says the satellite can deliver imagery at a resolution of 1.5 metres and revisit locations globally every seven to ten days. The spacecraft, roughly the size of a compact refrigerator, also carries a deployable antenna spanning about three-and-a-half metres.The company had earlier tested its imaging systems through nearly 500 aerial sorties involving drones, Cessna aircraft and high-altitude platforms, besides flying an earlier payload aboard an Isro PSLV mission under the POEM platform.Interest in the project has already emerged from both defence and civilian agencies. The company has said discussions have taken place with multiple Indian government departments, including defence and agriculture ministries, while agencies such as the Defence Space Agency, Indian Air Force, Army and Navy have been tracking the programme.GalaxEye has also signed distribution partnerships across more than 20 countries. Following Drishti’s launch, the startup plans to build a larger constellation of 8 to 12 satellites over the next four years, with future versions targeting even sharper imagery.About the AuthorChethan KumarChethan Kumar is a Senior Assistant Editor with the Times of India. Aside from specialising in Space & Science, he has reported extensively on varied topics, with special focus on defence, policy and data stories. He has covered multiple elections, too. As a young democracy grows out of adolescence, Chethan feels, there are reels of tales emerging which need to be captured. To do this, he alternates between the mundane goings-on of the Common Man and the wonder-filled worlds of scientists and scamsters, politicians and soldiers. In a career spanning nearly 18 years, he has reported from multiple datelines — Houston, Florida, Kochi, Hyderabad, Chennai, Sriharikota (AP), NH-1 (J&K Highway), New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Raichur, Bhatkal, Mysuru, Chamarajanagar, to name a few — but is based out of Bengaluru, India’s science capital that also hosts the ISRO HQ.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosVietnam President To Lam’s First State Visit To India: What It Means For New Delhi-Hanoi TiesPune Rape-Murder Case: CM Fadnavis Assures Fast-Track Trial, Targets Oppn Over ‘Cash-for-Transfer’Nishant Kumar Begins Sadbhav Yatra from Patna, Says Aim is Worker Outreach & Public ConnectIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data Inclusion123Photostories5 offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect for a peaceful holiday”My moong dal chilla sticks to the pan”: 5 easy fixes to make crispy and non-sticky chillaBest ways to mole- and rat-proof your home and gardenVictoria Beckham and David Beckham: All about the high-profile romance, cheating rumours, renewed vows and moreDiljit Dosanjh fashion: 5 iconic looks that broke style rulesFrom firing near Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Cafe to Bishnoi gang’s warning: All you need to know about the ongoing controversyThe 10-minute smart freezer tricks you will wish you knew before every vacationAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars17-year-old ‘Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2025’: 7 stunning photosPrincess Charlotte celebrates 11th birthday: 5 interesting facts about the Princess who’s an equal in the league of Queen Elizabeth II123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap SSC Stenographer exam 2026: Application for 731 Grade C, D posts ends soon; direct link to apply here Lil Jon shares about his emotional last trip with son Nathan Smith, says, ‘I saw how happy it made him’ ‘Iron grills, locked terrace’: How Delhi residential building became its own death trap Indian-origin doctor shares experience of UK driving test, says system is ‘strict but necessary’ | World News NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu’s 2026 assembly election has set the stage for a closely fought contest, with counting day expected to bring clarity after weeks of high-decibel campaigning and strong voter turnout.Trends will begin to emerge from 8am on May 4, as counting gets underway across the state’s 234 constituencies.Data will be released in real time on the Election Commission website, alongside live coverage, analysis, and seat tallies on The Times of India. Watch Tamil Nadu Exit Poll Stuns Panel As Axis My India Projects Up To 120 Seats For Vijay’s TVKPolling for the 2026 election was conducted in a single phase, with crores of voters participating across the state. Turnout remained robust, continuing Tamil Nadu’s trend of high electoral participation.Tamil Nadu recorded one of its highest-ever voter turnouts, exceeding 84.80%.The ruling DMK, led by chief minister MK Stalin, is seeking another term based on its governance and welfare initiatives.Meanwhile, opposition AIADMK, headed by Edappadi K Palaniswami, is aiming for a comeback. At the same time, TVK, led by Vijay, has emerged as a disruptive force, especially among urban and young voters.What exit polls predictedIn Tamil Nadu, while most exit polls indicate that the DMK-led alliance under chief minister M K Stalin is on course to retain power, Axis My India predicts the rise of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by actor-politician Vijay.The Axis My India exit poll projected that TVK would get 98-120 seats in its debut election, DMK-led alliance 92-100 seats, and the five-party alliance led by BJP 22-32 seats. According to Axis My India, Vijay is also ahead of Stalin in terms of choice for the next chief minister. While Stalin was supported by 35 per cent of those polled, Vijay got the support of 37 per cent.Several other exit polls predicted that the alliance led by the ruling DMK will return to power in the state. People’s Pulse projected 125-145 seats for DMK-led alliance and 65-80 seats for AIADMK-led alliance, which includes BJP. It projected TVK getting two to six seats. Tamil Nadu has 234 assembly seats.Even conservative estimates suggest that TVK could influence outcomes in multiple constituencies by redistributing votes.According to exit poll projections by Matrize, DMK and its allies will get 122–132 seats and AIADMK and its allies 80–100 seats. It said TVK would get 0–6 Assembly seats.The exit poll by P-MARQ projected 125-145 seats for the DMK-led alliance, 60-70 seats for the AIADMK-led alliance, and one to six seats for TVK.People’s Insight projected 120-140 seats for the DMK-led alliance, 60–70 for the AIADMK-led alliance, and 30-40 seats for TVK.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 MediaVideosVietnam President To Lam’s First State Visit To India: What It Means For New Delhi-Hanoi TiesPune Rape-Murder Case: CM Fadnavis Assures Fast-Track Trial, Targets Oppn Over ‘Cash-for-Transfer’Nishant Kumar Begins Sadbhav Yatra from Patna, Says Aim is Worker Outreach & Public ConnectIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data Inclusion123Photostories5 offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect for a peaceful holiday”My moong dal chilla sticks to the pan”: 5 easy fixes to make crispy and non-sticky chillaBest ways to mole- and rat-proof your home and gardenVictoria Beckham and David Beckham: All about the high-profile romance, cheating rumours, renewed vows and moreDiljit Dosanjh fashion: 5 iconic looks that broke style rulesFrom firing near Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Cafe to Bishnoi gang’s warning: All you need to know about the ongoing controversyThe 10-minute smart freezer tricks you will wish you knew before every vacationAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars17-year-old ‘Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2025’: 7 stunning photosPrincess Charlotte celebrates 11th birthday: 5 interesting facts about the Princess who’s an equal in the league of Queen Elizabeth II123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap Union Bank of India apprentice recruitment 2026 underway for 1865 vacancies; check details and direct link here When Govinda danced with wife Sunita for the FIRST time and sealed it with kiss: ‘Inhone aajtak mere saath dance nahi kiya’ Ac Explosion Causes: Why are ACs exploding? Here are some common mistakes you might be making unknowingly The $900 billion reason Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei keeps talking about AI taking away millions of jobs Image courtesy: ANI NEW DELHI: Tensions flared at the counting centre in Bhowanipore, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee’s assembly constituency, a day before vote counting, after her TMC alleged that two vehicles displaying BJP flags were allowed inside the secured premises where EVMs are stored.Banerjee’s main opponent in Bhowanipore is BJP leader and West Bengal’s leader of opposition Suvendu Adhikari, her former aide.TMC workers claimed that CAPF personnel were strictly regulating entry into the counting centre, yet a suspicious vehicle was permitted inside despite no prior sightings in recent days. They further alleged that after they raised objections, security forces pushed them back nearly 100 metres from the site.The party also alleged that although officials initially said the vehicle would be removed, it remained parked for some time before leaving. However, an Election Commission official countered the claim, stating that the vehicle had merely passed along Harish Mukherjee Road and was allowed to proceed after checks by security personnel and police found nothing objectionable.The incident follows a series of similar allegations made by the TMC in recent days. On Thursday, Banerjee staged a four-hour sit-in outside the Sakhawat Memorial Girls School counting centre, protesting “unauthorised access” to strongrooms. Trinamool leaders and candidatea Sashi Panja and Kunal Ghosh also held demonstrations outside another counting facility, accusing authorities of irregularities amid the absence of TMC agents.Similar protests were reported on Saturday at counting centres in Asansol College in Paschim Bardhaman and Barasat Government College in North 24 Parganas, where the ruling party’s workers claimed CCTV cameras were briefly switched off. The Election Commission rejected all such allegations, maintaining that surveillance systems remained fully operational.Meanwhile, BJP spokesperson Sajal Ghosh dismissed the claims, accusing the TMC of making baseless allegations out of fear of defeat and questioning whether the party was anticipating an electoral loss.West Bengal’s elections were conducted in two phases, with voting held on April 23 in 152 constituencies and on April 29 in the remaining 142 seats. Both phases saw a record voter turnout exceeding 90%.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 MediaVideosNishant Kumar Begins Sadbhav Yatra from Patna, Says Aim is Worker Outreach & Public ConnectIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data InclusionHome Minister Amit Shah Meets Sonam Wangchuk & Other Leaders in Leh Ahead Of TalksChhattisgarh IED Blast Kills 4 DRG Personnel During Defusal Operation Near Kanker-Narayanpur Border123Photostories5 offbeat beaches in Maharashtra perfect for a peaceful holiday”My moong dal chilla sticks to the pan”: 5 easy fixes to make crispy and non-sticky chillaBest ways to mole- and rat-proof your home and gardenVictoria Beckham and David Beckham: All about the high-profile romance, cheating rumours, renewed vows and moreDiljit Dosanjh fashion: 5 iconic looks that broke style rulesFrom firing near Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Cafe to Bishnoi gang’s warning: All you need to know about the ongoing controversyThe 10-minute smart freezer tricks you will wish you knew before every vacationAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars17-year-old ‘Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2025’: 7 stunning photosPrincess Charlotte celebrates 11th birthday: 5 interesting facts about the Princess who’s an equal in the league of Queen Elizabeth II123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap Mittal Family, Adar Poonawala acquire Rajasthan Royals for approx $1.65 billion Market watch this week: State poll verdicts, oil prices and Q4 earnings to steer stock market mood, analysts say Costly textbooks: Are schools forcing private books over NCERT? NHRC issues notice to Centre, states ‘Raja Shivaji’ box office collection Day 3 [LIVE]: Riteish Deshmukh starrer is inching towards the Rs 30 crore mark on first Sunday Ac Explosion Causes: Why are ACs exploding? Here are some common mistakes you might be making unknowingly Hyderabad man hits mother-in-law with helmet during ride, fakes ‘seizure’ fall; wife uncovers truth on CCTV, gets him arrested NEW DELHI: The risk of being hospitalised in India doubles after the age of 45 and rises sharply among the elderly, signalling a shift in the country’s healthcare burden, according to the latest National Sample Survey Office (NSO) data for the last 365 days.The survey shows that hospitalisation rates climb from 23 per 1,000 people in the 30–44 age group to 42 per 1,000 among those aged 45–59, and then nearly double again to 81 per 1,000 in those aged 60 and above. In comparison, only 15 per 1,000 people aged 15–29 required hospital care over the year. Hospitalisation among children aged 0–4 (34 per 1,000) is also higher than among adolescents and young adults, pointing to a dual burden at the two ends of the age spectrum.The data point to a clear transition, with healthcare demand increasingly driven by middle-aged and older populations. Experts say this reflects a rising burden of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart conditions and respiratory illnesses, which become more common with age and often require hospital treatment.“The sharp rise in hospitalisation after 45 reflects a systemic gap in preventive healthcare. Lifestyle diseases like diabetes, hypertension, obesity, fatty liver and heart disease are accumulating earlier, but structured screening and risk modification are not keeping pace,” said Dr Rommel Tickoo, Director, Internal Medicine, Max Hospital, Saket.“If India invests in early detection, routine metabolic screening, cardiovascular risk assessment, and primary care strengthening, we can significantly reduce avoidable hospital admissions in later decades,” he added.State-wise differences are stark. Kerala reports among the highest hospitalisation rates, with about 186 elderly persons per 1,000 admitted in a year—more than double the national average. Other regions such as Lakshadweep and Tripura also show elevated levels, while some northeastern states report lower rates. Experts say higher rates in states like Kerala may also reflect better access to healthcare and higher detection of illnesses.Among the elderly, hospitalisation rates are higher for men (93 per 1,000) than women (69 per 1,000), while differences are smaller or reversed in younger age groups.The trend highlights growing pressure on hospitals as India’s population ages. With more people living longer and developing long-term conditions, demand for inpatient care is expected to rise further in the coming years.The NSO data, based on hospitalisations over the past year (excluding childbirth), underline the need for stronger primary healthcare, early detection and better management of chronic diseases to reduce avoidable hospital admissions. The findings suggest India’s healthcare needs are shifting rapidly towards middle-aged and elderly populations.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 MediaVideosIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data InclusionHome Minister Amit Shah Meets Sonam Wangchuk & Other Leaders in Leh Ahead Of TalksChhattisgarh IED Blast Kills 4 DRG Personnel During Defusal Operation Near Kanker-Narayanpur BorderIndia-Bound LPG Tanker Sarv Shakti On The Move Across Strait Of Hormuz: Why It Matters?123PhotostoriesAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars17-year-old ‘Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2025′: 7 stunning photosPrincess Charlotte celebrates 11th birthday: 5 interesting facts about the Princess who’s an equal in the league of Queen Elizabeth II7 life lessons from Sundar Pichai that actually apply to your everyday lifeHow to make South Indian Onion Uttapam for Sunday breakfastRoyal deja vu! 5 times Queen Camilla’s wardrobe looked strikingly similar to Princess Diana’s10 beautiful and unique baby girl names with the letter “S”’The Devil Wears Prada 2’: Emily Blunt’s most iconic momentsMorning affirmation at 5 am: Affirmations that help you hear yourselfFrom Samay Raina roasting Sunil Pal and Navjot Singh Sidhu to Kapil Sharma pulling Ranveer Allahbadia and Samay’s leg over the India’s Got Latent controversy—highlights from The Great Indian Kapil Show123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap ‘CSK are becoming dangerous’: R Ashwin’s bold take after Gaikwad’s form turnaround UPTET 2026 registration ends today at upessc.up.gov.in: Check detailed OTR process here Anushka Sharma backs idea of screen-free, no-network summer holidays with kids: ‘A place where no one is selling you anything’ Premanand Maharaj Ji: Love quote of the day by Premanand Maharaj ji: “True love is…” ‘I will burn you, just watch’: Bengaluru man pours petrol on son during fight NEW DELHI: Even as the Supreme Court has stepped in to examine how brain death is certified in India, asking for an expert committee from AIIMS to weigh in on whether additional tests such as electroencephalogram (EEG) and angiogram are needed, experts say these may not be necessary as existing protocols already have adequate checks and balances.Hearing a petition alleging malpractices in brain death certification, a two-judge bench said it would seek expert opinion from AIIMS on the safety and viability of such tests. The court asked the head of AIIMS’s neurology department to constitute a committee, which, according to sources, is yet to be formed.The plea, filed by Kerala-based medic and activist S Ganapathy, alleged that patients who may not be brain dead are sometimes declared so to facilitate organ donation. It also questioned the reliability of the apnea test—the standard method used to confirm brain death—calling it subjective and claiming that the legal requirement of videographing the procedure is often not followed.Under the existing legal framework, brain death certification follows a strictly defined protocol. Dr Manjari Tripathi, head of neurology at AIIMS, said the process is governed by Form 10 under the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, 1994. “Brain stem death has to be certified by a panel of four independent doctors, including a neurologist or neurosurgeon, and confirmed twice with a minimum gap of six hours. The process is carried out with due diligence and seriousness,” she said.Experts said additional tests could add to the system burden. EEG is not routinely recommended for brainstem death certification, while angiogram is used only in select cases where the apnea test cannot be performed. Globally, the apnea test remains the gold standard. These criteria are clearly laid down and cannot be altered, said experts. Brain death is the irreversible loss of all brain function, including the brainstem; while the heart may continue to beat on life support, the person cannot breathe or regain consciousness and is medically considered dead, unlike in coma where some brain activity remains.The court’s move comes amid a persistent gap between potential and actual organ donation. Despite a large pool of potential donors, only about 1,100 deceased donations take place annually in India, or 0.77 per million population.A recent multi-institutional study, including researchers from AIIMS Delhi, Dr Deepak Gupta, found fewer than half of doctors had formal training in brain death certification and flagged inconsistencies in clinical practice, leading to under-recognition of eligible cases. These gaps often result in “silent brain deaths”, where patients meet criteria but are not formally declared, eliminating the possibility of organ donation.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 MediaVideosIAF Rescues Two Children Stranded On Water Tank in Siddharthnagar, UP Using Mi-17 HelicopterMassive Fire in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar Building, 9 Dead as Rescue Operations Continue in ShahdaraPune Child Rape-Murder Sparks Protests, Highway Blocked Near Navale Bridge‘Reminder To Those Who Misuse State Power’: Pawan Khera Jabs Assam CM After SC Anticipatory BailUS Retains India on Special 301 Priority Watch List, Flags Patent Regime, Enforcement GapsCourt Rejects Nida Khan’s Anticipatory Bail in TCS Nashik Harassment and Conversion CaseCensus 2027 To Begin In UP From May 2026 With 5 Lakh Personnel, & Caste Data InclusionHome Minister Amit Shah Meets Sonam Wangchuk & Other Leaders in Leh Ahead Of TalksChhattisgarh IED Blast Kills 4 DRG Personnel During Defusal Operation Near Kanker-Narayanpur BorderIndia-Bound LPG Tanker Sarv Shakti On The Move Across Strait Of Hormuz: Why It Matters?123PhotostoriesAkshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Ajay Devgn, Ranbir Kapoor: Celebs who love pulling pranks on co-stars17-year-old ‘Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2025′: 7 stunning photosPrincess Charlotte celebrates 11th birthday: 5 interesting facts about the Princess who’s an equal in the league of Queen Elizabeth II7 life lessons from Sundar Pichai that actually apply to your everyday lifeHow to make South Indian Onion Uttapam for Sunday breakfastRoyal deja vu! 5 times Queen Camilla’s wardrobe looked strikingly similar to Princess Diana’s10 beautiful and unique baby girl names with the letter “S”’The Devil Wears Prada 2’: Emily Blunt’s most iconic momentsMorning affirmation at 5 am: Affirmations that help you hear yourselfFrom Samay Raina roasting Sunil Pal and Navjot Singh Sidhu to Kapil Sharma pulling Ranveer Allahbadia and Samay’s leg over the India’s Got Latent controversy—highlights from The Great Indian Kapil Show123Hot PicksAssam key constituenciesKerala key constituenciesPuducherry election resultsTamil Nadu constituenciesAjay Pal SharmaBengal Poll RecordHimanta Biswa SarmaTop TrendingUS Germany relationsBank Holiday MayVande Bharat expressLPG cylinder price hikeMumbai missing linkPetrol, Diesel, LPG priceCBSE Class 12th ResultNEET 2026: Exam-day guideBSE AP SSC Class 10th ResultIPL Orange Cap IPL 2026 | ‘What is there to be ashamed of?’ Ashwin brings back Jos Buttler ‘Mankading’ row UPTET 2026 registration ends today at upessc.up.gov.in; check eligibility and direct link here When ‘Raja Shivaji’ actor Riteish Deshmukh revealed how son Riaan inspires him; ‘Laugh loudly at silly things’ Types Of Tears: What are tears? 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