VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html ‘Had a great time’: Harmeet Dhillon responds to backlash after attending January 6 rally organiser’s wedding amid DOJ promotion talk NEW DELHI: Assam is all set to vote on April 9, with a total of 2,50,54,463 electors ready to decide the fate of 722 candidates.The high-stakes contest for the 126-member Assam assembly will unfold with most constituencies set for a direct fight between the BJP-led NDA and a Congress-headed opposition alliance.The BJP is aiming for a third consecutive term, while the Congress is seeking to reclaim the state it lost in 2016. Here’s a dive into the key numbers shaping the 2026 verdict. Watch Assam Elections 2026: Heavyweight Contests, Key Seats and High-Stakes Battles to Watch Follow complete coverage of assembly elections 2026The key contest:Total seats: 126Majority mark: 64Polling date: April 9, 2026Counting day: May 4, 2026Candidates in fray: 722 (down from 946 in 2021) Assam’s voter base has expanded by 6.49% since 2021.Total voters: 2,49,58,139Male voters: 1,24,82,213Female voters: 1,24,75,583 Third gender voters: 343Youth vote: 29% aged 18–29The political fight is largely divided into two blocs:NDA (North East Democratic Alliance):Led by Himanta Biswa Sarma’s BJP (90 seats), alongside Asom Gana Parishad (26) and Bodoland People’s Front (11)Asom Sonmilito Morcha (ASM):Opposition front led by Congress (99 seats), with Raijor Dal (13) and Assam Jatiya Parishad (10)The wild cards:Badruddin Ajmal’s All India United Democratic Front and Aam Aadmi Party contesting soloCrorepati candidates: 285 (39% of total candidates)Richest candidate: Rahul Roy — Rs 261 croreSecond richest: Badruddin Ajmal — Rs 226 croreBJP: 88% crorepati candidatesCongress: 61% crorepati candidatesDelimitation effectThe 2023 delimitation exercise has quietly reshaped the terrain:ST reserved seats: 19SC reserved seats: 9Constituencies redrawn: 80+Regions like Barak Valley and Lower Assam now carry altered voter profiles, meaning past trends may no longer predict future outcomes.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 movies5 quiet laws of social power that make you instantly more respectedAs Ranbir Kapoor takes on dual roles in ‘Ramayana’, a look at Bollywood’s finest double role performances123Hot 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 Melissa Gilbert slams parents in explosive audio amid husband Timothy Busfield’s abuse case Can Rahu dasha change your life overnight? ‘Israel ready to resume war on Iran’: Netanyahu warns ‘finger on trigger’, calls ceasefire ‘not the end’ ‘Insane’: Four Texas teens arrested for kidnapping, torturing classmate for talking to one of their girlfriends Army unveils first drone & munitions roadmap, lists 30 types of UAS, loitering munitions | India News Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, Rashmika tease ‘Cocktail 2’ song ‘Jab Talak’ ‘China made its own efforts’: Beijing on US-Iran ceasefire after Trump credits it for talks Who is Rex Heuermann? Architect-turned Gilgo Beach serial killer admits to strangling 8 women New Delhi: India ranks third globally in renewable energy installed capacity, having surpassed Brazil in global rankings, Union minister Pralhad Joshi said on Wednesday.The minister for new and renewable energy said India had added a record 55.3 GW of non-fossil power capacity in 2025-26, taking the total to 283.5 GW. “This is the highest increase in any year,” he said. Distributed renewable energy — rooftop solar installations and solar pumps for irrigation — has emerged as a significant component of growth, with 7.6 GW added under PM KUSUM scheme and 8.7 GW coming from rooftop solar plants.Addressing a press conference, Joshi said India had reached its highest-ever renewable energy share in electricity generation in July 2025, when green sources — solar, wind, hydro and nuclear — met 51.5% of total electricity demand of 203 GW. In the current scenario, with fossil fuel supplies disrupted due to the conflict in West Asia, steps taken by govt have helped reduce dependence on oil imports.“We have achieved almost 100% electrification of railways, EV sales have increased and daytime charging costs are very low. The use of solar energy with battery storage is increasing in households. We are in discussion with DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) for production of utensils suited for induction stoves to increase its use,” Joshi said.He acknowledged a few instances of curtailment of output from wind and solar farms by grid operators, preventing them from generating at full capacity. “Our transmission system has largely been developed for thermal-based energy and is taking time to adjust. Work on delayed transmission lines is being expedited and is expected to be completed by June, after which the issue of curtailment will not arise,” he said.About the AuthorAtul MathurAtul Mathur is a Senior Assistant Editor at The Times of India with over 27 years of experience in journalism. Based in Delhi, he has spent much of his career reporting on governance, public policy and politics, churning out researched, data-driven stories that impact daily lives. Atul is known for investigative depth and strong human-interest narratives as he strives to bring clarity and context to complex issues. He currently tracks the energy sector, writing on power, renewable energy, coal and mines.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 AFI curbing athletes’ commercial freedom: Experts | More sports News Shah Rukh Khan showers praise on Allu Arjun’s look in ‘Raaka’ as he drops birthday wishes, calls him ‘amazing’, netizens react IPL 2026: Who is Indian cricketer Yashasvi Jaiswal’s rumoured girlfriend Maddie Hamilton? | Mark Zuckerberg Quote: Success quote of the day by Mark Zuckerberg: “The greatest successes come from having the freedom to fail” | ‘We fund outrage about ourselves’: Redditor reacts to YouTuber Tyler Oliveira’s video against H-1B Guwahati: ‘Politics Nokoriba Bandhu (Don’t do politics, my friend),’ sang Zubeen Garg in 2019, seven years before netas on campaign trail turned his tragic 2025 death in Singapore into a talking point at rallies.As the election approaches, visits by politicians to Zubeen Kshetra — a memorial at the site of the music icon’s cremation on Sept 23 last year — have increased. As have slugfests in his name.Lok Sabha MP and Assam Pradesh Congress Committee chief Gaurav Gogoi has alleged that the state govt formed an SIT to “hide” CM Himanta Biswa Sarma’s ties with the accused, referring to North East India Festival organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta. He has also said BJP stands opposed to Zubeen’s ideals and continues to disrespect him even after his death. Watch Assam Elections 2026: Heavyweight Contests, Key Seats and High-Stakes Battles to Watch The CM has also not backed off from the issue, saying in the assembly that it is “on the record” that Zubeen was murdered. He has accused Congress of turning the singer’s memorial into a political arena, and has vowed not to visit the site until elections end.Akhil Gogoi, peasant leader-turned-Raijor Dal president, has said the probe has been converted into a political show, and govt is “dramatising” Zubeen’s death to gain sympathy before the polls.Congress in its manifesto promised to ensure justice for Zubeen within 100 days if elected to office. Sarma called the party’s move to include the tragedy in its poll promises a “sin”. MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra hit back, saying committing to pursue justice within a timeframe should not be viewed as political opportunism.The state coroner in Singapore had concluded that Zubeen’s death was “simply due to an unfortunate and tragic accidental drowning” and that no one had forced, coerced, or pushed him into the water. Directly addressing a concern raised by Zubeen’s wife, Garima Saikia Garg, about the Singapore Police Coast Guard’s finding that there was no foul play, state coroner Adam Nakhoda said that the cops had conducted a comprehensive and thorough investigation.The opposition parties maintained that the “mystery” of Zubeen’s death had remained unsolved, particularly with investigating agencies in India and Singapore arriving at different conclusions.The CM, however, said there was “no difference” between the Singapore verdict and the state police’s chargesheet, and the case here wo-uld be “strengthened” as it bolstered the view that the singer was forced to drink alcohol and coaxed to go for a swim.Last week, Gogoi doubled down on his accusations, clai-ming the probe had been “negligent” because of Sarma’s links to “those responsible”.For ‘Zubeen da’s’ fans, though, none of this is currying favour.Pradip Sharma, secretary of Zubeen Kshetra Pariskar Parisalana and Tadarak Committee, says politicians have started making trips to the memorial “but this will not have any effect on the people of Assam or on the polls”.Nitu Moni Das, a local, says, “He always stood with the people of Assam, not with the politicians. We just want to know how the tragedy happened.”Jayanta Sarma points out that Zubeen himself had said ‘Politics Nokoriba Bandhu’. “How can we tolerate people politicising his death?” he says. Jayanta’s visits to the memorial on weekends have become a ritual.For those across Assam who adored him, Zubeen’s death is not a blame game but a wave of grief that has united them. Hundreds throng the shrine every day; this number runs into thousands on holidays. They offer earthen lamps, gamosas and flowers. Some perform pujas and the Tadarak committee helps th-em with everything they need.Malati Medhi, a committee member, comes every day. She finishes her household chores in the morning and rushes over to offer “whatever assistance” she can.“None of the people working here have specific roles. We take care of the site together,” says Paban Kalita, another member.Krishna Kamal Saikia, who travelled overnight from Dibrugarh, says he comes every month. “Zubeen da was not just a musician but a pure soul. He did so much for the state and its people. Paying our respects is the least we can do,” he says.PollIs the increased attention on Zubeen death helping or harming his legacy?Helping it gain more recognition.Harming it through politicization. Construction has begun on a permanent memorial; a boundary wall is also being built. “The shrine is difficult to maintain during monsoon. A concrete structure will help,” says committee president Deben Das, adding, “The boundary wall is also an urgent requirement in order to prevent trespassing.”A committee member says, “Maybe it will keep netas out of this sacred place.”End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’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 MPCJaishankar To Visit UAE, Signals India’s Strategic Push After US, Iran Strike Ceasefire In West Asia123PhotostoriesThese 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-NCRInside Ruturaj Gaikwad’s ₹8 crore Pune residence that defines modern luxury123Hot 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 ‘It doesn’t matter who you are’: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi steals fresh IPL buzz | Cricket News PFRDA rolls out NPS Swasthya to combine retirement planning with health cover Ramanand Sagar’s son Moti Sagar backs Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana: ‘Comparison with TV show is not right’ Assembly elections 2026: From Brahmaputra to backwaters – Assam, Kerala, Puducherry head to vote Strait of Hormuz: How Trump gave Iran a weapon deadlier than any nuke NEW DELHI: The high-voltage campaign for the Assam Assembly elections ended on Tuesday, bringing to a close two weeks of sharp political exchanges, aggressive rhetoric and a barrage of promises.The contest has largely centred around the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and the opposition Indian National Congress. The BJP’s campaign was dominated by its core plank of “jati-mati-bheti,” the protection of Assamese identity, land and culture along with a strong pitch against alleged illegal infiltration. This narrative remained so prominent that it overshadowed even the party’s welfare promises.The Congress, on the other hand, focused its campaign on targeting chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and accused the BJP of pursuing divisive politics, framing the election as a battle against what it called “politics of hate”.This election is the first Assembly poll after the 2023 delimitation exercise, which has redrawn constituency boundaries across all 126 seats. The changes have significantly altered the political landscape, particularly impacting Muslim voters of Bangladesh origin, whose influence is now seen as reduced from 31 to 22 constituencies.The BJP is aiming for a third consecutive term in power, while the Congress is seeking to reclaim the state after being voted out in 2016.Candidates and parties in the frayA total of 722 candidates are contesting the elections, including several prominent leaders such as Himanta Biswa Sarma, state Congress president Gaurav Gogoi, Leader of Opposition Debabrata Saikia, All India United Democratic Front chief Badruddin Ajmal, Raijor Dal leader Akhil Gogoi and Assam Jatiya Parishad president Lurinjyoti Gogoi.Among parties, the Congress has fielded the highest number of candidates at 99, followed by the BJP with 90. The AIUDF is contesting 30 seats, while NDA allies Asom Gana Parishad and Bodoland People’s Front are contesting 26 and 11 seats, respectively.In the opposition bloc, Raijor Dal is contesting 13 seats, Assam Jatiya Parishad 10, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) 3, and the All Party Hill Leaders Conference 2 seats. Other parties in the fray include the Aam Aadmi Party (18), United People’s Party Liberal (18), All India Trinamool Congress (22), Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (16), along with 258 independent candidates. Faces to watch out forSeveral constituencies are set for high-profile contests. In Jalukbari, Sarma is seeking a sixth consecutive term against Congress candidate Bidisha Neog. In Jorhat, Gaurav Gogoi is attempting his Assembly debut against BJP’s Hitendranath Goswami.AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal is contesting from Binnakandi in a triangular contest against AGP’s Shahabuddin Mazumdar and AJP’s Rejaul Karim Chowdhury.In Sibsagar, Akhil Gogoi faces a three-cornered contest against BJP’s Jayanta Hazarika and AGP’s Pradip Hazarika. AJP’s Lurinjyoti Gogoi is locked in a direct fight with BJP’s Chakradhar Gogoi in Khowang.AGP president and minister Atul Bora is in a triangular contest in Bokakhat against Raijor Dal’s Hari Prasad Saikia and former Independent MLA Jiten Gogoi. Meanwhile, minister Keshav Mahanta faces Raijor Dal candidate Pradip Kumar Baruah in Kaliabor.Polling will be held from 7 am to 5 pm across 31,490 polling stations in 35 districts. Chief Electoral Officer Anurag Goel said webcasting facilities have been enabled at all polling stations for real-time monitoring, while Central Armed Police Forces, including CRPF personnel, have been deployed to ensure security.A total of 2.50 crore voters are eligible to vote, including 1.25 crore women and 318 voters from the third gender. The electorate also includes 6.42 lakh first-time voters, 2.50 lakh voters aged 80 and above — including 2,466 centenarians — and 2.05 lakh persons with disabilities.With polling set to take place in a single phase on Thursday, the results will be declared on May 4, when it will become clear who forms the next government in Assam.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 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 MPCJaishankar To Visit UAE, Signals India’s Strategic Push After US, Iran Strike Ceasefire In West AsiaIndia Welcomes US-Iran Peace Push But Warns Against Further Disruption In Hormuz Supply Chain RouteFour Killed in Fresh Manipur Violence After Months of Calm; Probe Handed to NIA123PhotostoriesThese 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-NCRInside Ruturaj Gaikwad’s ₹8 crore Pune residence that defines modern luxury123Hot 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 Cabinet okays Rs 40,150 crore for two major hydropower projects in Arunachal Pradesh Aditya Dhar gets interim relief as court restrains Santosh Kumar from claiming ‘Dhurandhar 2’ is copied from his script Assam assembly elections 2026: Identity, power & the battle of ‘Asomiya Jatiyotabad’ Illegal Pakistani truck driver arrested in US, three years after killing Maryland man in wrong-way crash New Delhi: In a bid to provide some reprieve to airlines badly affected by the US-Iran war, the aviation ministry has directed 34 major airports to reduce their landing and parking charges by 25% for three months, for domestic flights. Accordingly, the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) on Tuesday issued an order directing the operators of airports at places like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and many others to do so with effect from Tuesday for three months. Govt is looking at ways to provide some relief to Indian carriers, most of whom are struggling to survive. The hike in domestic ATF was capped at 25% this month for that reason. With assembly elections in crucial states like Kerala and West Bengal on the horizon, the aviation ministry is making all possible attempts to ensure that at least domestic airfare hikes don’t defy gravity. The ministry made a rare intervention in airport tariffs, given the fact that a majority of them are run on PPP model.The order reads: “Landing and parking charges (part of aeronautical tariff) at all major airports shall be reduced by 25% from the prevailing tariff. This reduction comes into immediate effect and will be applicable on all domestic flights for a period of three months. The decision shall be reviewed prior to completion of the three-month period. Any under-recovery from aggregate revenue requirement will be trued-up during the tariff determination of the next control period.”This month, oil marketing PSUs hiked aviation turbine fuel base price for domestic and international flights by 25% and over 100%, respectively. Coupled with airspace restrictions to the west that force airlines to take much longer routes to Europe and America, apart from far fewer flights on the lucrative Gulf routes, and a weak rupee, airlines have been badly hit. The Air India group and IndiGo have hied their fuel surcharge.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosOil 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 MPCJaishankar To Visit UAE, Signals India’s Strategic Push After US, Iran Strike Ceasefire In West AsiaIndia Welcomes US-Iran Peace Push But Warns Against Further Disruption In Hormuz Supply Chain Route123PhotostoriesThese 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 movies5 quiet laws of social power that make you instantly more respectedAs 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 India’s high growth, low inflation story at risk! RBI flags 5 adverse impacts from US-Iran war; how resilient is the economy? JPSC city intimation slip 2026 released for CSE prelims exam: Direct link to download here India withdraws its offer to host the UN climate summit (COP33) in 2028 | India News Aditya Dhar praises Mukesh Chhabra after Dhurandhar: The Revenge success; calls him ‘a key force’ behind the film Strait of Hormuz toll? Iran to demand crypto payment from shipping firms – report Four people stabbed outside UK train station, 2 held; video shows chaotic scenes There are 1,099 polling booths, including 30 all-women polling booths, 15 youth-managed polling booths, two booths managed by people with disabilities and two unique polling booths established in heritage buildings in the Union territory. PUDUCHERRY: The Union territory of Puducherry will head to the assembly polls on Thursday (April 9). Chief electoral officer P Jawahar, while briefing reporters on Wednesday, said the election machinery in the territory expects more than 90% polling in 2026. The territory recorded 82.2% polling in the 2021 assembly polls. After special intensive revision (SIR), about 8% voters were removed from the electoral list in 2026, he said.Polling will begin at 7am. There are 294 candidates in the fray in 30 constituencies in the territory. The constituencies include 23 in Puducherry, five in Karaikal and one each in Mahe and Yanam. There are 9.5 lakh voters – 5.03 lakh women, 4.46 lakh men and 140 third gender- in the territory. There are 1,099 polling booths, including 30 all-women polling booths, 15 youth-managed polling booths, two booths managed by people with disabilities (PwD) and two unique polling booths established in heritage buildings in the territory.All India NR Congress (AINRC)-led NDA coalition govt is seeking a second consecutive term. The alliance includes the BJP, AIADMK and LJK. AINRC contests in 16 seats, BJP 10 and AIADMK and LJK two each. Congress-led INDIA bloc is leaving no stone unturned to wrest power back from the NDA. Congress contests in 16 seats, DMK 13 and VCK one.Jawahar said the election department had thus far seized Rs 8.4 crore worth of gold valuables, liquor, and freebies besides cash intended to lure voters. The department suspended nine govt servants for participating in political activities and initiated disciplinary action against another nine govt servants for their involvement in political activities. A delegation of nine officials from six countries — Kyrgyzstan, Ivory Coast, Moldova, Mongolia, Guyana and Bhutan — have arrived in Puducherry to observe the polling process at select stations.He said the election machinery had launched the Meipporul 2.0 application to combat “fake news” and misinformation. He urged citizens to follow the mantra: “Think, verify and act.” Already, 113 misleading social media posts have been removed by the cybersecurity wing. The department had resolved 76 out of 84 complaints within the 100-minute deadline via the C-Vigil app, he said.You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Puducherry | Silver Rate in Puducherry | Bank Holidays in Puducherry | Public Holidays in PuducherryEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia 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 MPCJaishankar To Visit UAE, Signals India’s Strategic Push After US, Iran Strike Ceasefire In West AsiaIndia Welcomes US-Iran Peace Push But Warns Against Further Disruption In Hormuz Supply Chain RouteFour Killed in Fresh Manipur Violence After Months of Calm; Probe Handed to NIA123PhotostoriesThese 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-NCRInside Ruturaj Gaikwad’s ₹8 crore Pune residence that defines modern luxury123Hot 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 BJK Cup: Vaishnavi, Sahaja post milestone wins; India beat New Zealand | Tennis News Rupee surges 52 paise to 92.54 against dollar; US-Iran ceasefire, RBI stance lift sentiment Lucknow University UG Odd Semester result 2026 released at result.lkouniv.ac.in: Direct link to download here Allu Arjun celebrates his 44th birthday with fans as ‘Raaka’ first look drops – Watch Do snake plants really attract snakes: Understanding the truth about their appearance and why they are linked to snakes What are the Vedic switch words? know their powerful effects in Hinduism India’s nuclear dream crosses a milestone at Kalpakkam Why did New York disappear in 1977 under snow that never fell from the clouds | World News ‘Some more information has come to light’: Khera levels new allegations against Assam CM’s wife | India News BCCI introduces stricter IPL rule, curbs extra players’ movement on the field US stock markets today (April 8, 2026): Dow jumps 1,300, S&P 500 gains 2.4%; crude oil tumbles toward $90 on Iran ceasefire Harvard faculty delays vote on controversial A-grade cap proposal: Decision pushed to May amid heated debate Revisiting Meryl Streep's iconic characters Optical illusion personality test: Woman, trees or both? 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