VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html Tabu moves Delhi High Court to protect personality rights, seeks action against AI-generated impersonation and identity misuse Daily Nadi Horoscope for Virgo (5th August 2026): Don’t Let Friendly Advice Control a Private Money Decision BJP has called out the Congress party for its hypocritical stance on examination irregularities NEW DELHI: BJP accused Congress and its allies of double standards on the issue of examination irregularities as it slammed them for their alleged silence over student protests in Jharkhand and Karnataka home minister Priyank Kharge’s controversial comments to defend police action against protests linked to an exam.While Congress maintains silence on exam irregularities in states where it is in office, it along with its allies are not allowing Parliament to function over similar incidents, BJP said, in a reference to opposition’s strident protest over NEET paper leak and related issues and its attack on home minister Amit Shah over Delhi police action against protesters on July 20.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines”No Congress MP is seen holding a placard on Jharkhand Public Service Commission examination paper leak issue. This is selective outrage driven only by political interests,” BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said. He also brought up Kharge’s “arrogant and insensitive” remarks to attack Congress. When asked if he would take responsibility after students protested over an exam irregularity, the state home minister said let students first go on a hunger strike and face lathi-charge, only then will he consider resigning.Kharge defended police action, saying it was necessary to allow the exam to go on undisturbed. “Mallikarjun Kharge had spoken for hours on the same issue in RS, which was welcome because at least the matter was discussed. However, when his own son made such an insensitive and inhuman statement, he, Rahul Gandhi, and Congress remained silent,” Patra said.”Hardly any bill is being discussed. The reason is the conduct of INDIA bloc. I am surprised by their double standards,” he said. TNNGet the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Daily Nadi Horoscope for Leo (5th August 2026): Don’t Reveal a Future Plan Before It Is Ready US Congressman warns FCRA Bill could affect India-US ties SP president Akhilesh Yadav, party MPs Dimple Yadav, Dharmendra Yadav and others protest the misappropriation of donations at Ram Temple, in the Parliament complex in New Delhi Tuesday NEW DELHI: Rajya Sabha Tuesday passed Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Bill amid din, with MoS for home Nityanand Rai saying the legislation intends to ensure every child born is duly registered and also all deaths are registered “so that ghosts don’t keep casting votes for parties that believe in appeasement”.The bill was passed without any discussion and voice vote as an unrelenting opposition continued to disrupt proceedings over NEET-UG paper leak and Ram temple donation theft issues and demanding home minister Amit Shah’s presence in the House.Responding to the discussion on the bill, Rai, in apparent reference to illegal immigrants, said, “The country now wants to get rid of ghosts. There are govts in some states that look for an opportunity and welcome those (who were not born in India) and register their births who are not eligible to be registered here. Now, we will not allow this to happen.”The bill that was earlier passed by Lok Sabha seeks to tighten regulations for delayed registration of births and deaths and makes it mandatory to get approval from a judicial magistrate (first class) for cases reported more than two years after the event.Similar scenes also prevailed in LS, with it passing Appropriation Bill without discussion – the fifth legislation to be approved by voice vote in lower House in Parliament’s monsoon session.Earlier, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced Taxation and Other Laws Amendment Bill for passage, but it was left for another day as the House was adjourned for the day after passage of Appropriation Bill, which seeks to provide authorisation of appropriation of moneys out of Consolidated Fund of India to meet amounts spent on certain services during the financial year ended on March 31, 2023, in excess of the amounts granted.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesMonsoon session is heading for a virtual washout as both Houses have been repeatedly adjourned since the session began except for a discussion on the bill making punishment in paper leak cases more stringent. RS witnessed an uproar as governing party and opposition had an angry exchange of words over the donation theft issue.When LoP Malikarjun Kharge asked why govt agencies like ED, CBI and I-T were not probing the theft ‘by members of Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra’, parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju alleged that Congress and SP had always “abused Lord Ram” and “opposed Ram Temple construction.”Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Virgo Horoscope Today, August 05, 2026: Safety should be your top priority in all endeavors Day after PK’s poll win, PM Modi talks to Nabin, meets Nitish Quote of the day by Warren Buffett: ‘Look for the job you would take if you didn’t need a job’ and timeless career advice NEW DELHI: Dismissing reports of fuel quality issues at outlets, govt Tuesday said additional checks have been introduced by oil marketing companies (OMCs) to detect fuel contamination and adulteration.In a post on X, the petroleum ministry said OMCs were regularly monitoring fuel quality, water ingress and contamination, and that only two cases of chloride contamination had been detected so far.”In addition to the advanced and elaborate testing protocols already in place, further checks have been instituted, including water ingress testing 8-12 times a day at over 87,000 outlets. Over 2,000 samples have also been tested for chloride/sulphide. Only two cases of chloride contamination have been found in the entire country till now, and sales from those pumps were suspended immediately,” ministry said.It added that oil companies had been instructed to take proactive steps to detect any possible contamination across the fuel supply chain, and strict action would be taken if contamination or adulteration was found at any retail outlet.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThrough a series of infographics on X, ministry said there was “zero compromise” on quality benchmarks and that 302 tankers carrying 10,500 kilolitres of ethanol were rejected between July 2024 and June 2026 for failing quality standards.It added that ethanol used for blending must comply with BIS IS 15464, have a minimum purity of 99.6% and be accompanied by a certified quality report. The ministry said ethanol is stored in dedicated facilities to prevent contamination, its quality is monitored regularly to ensure consistency and every tanker is sampled from both the top and bottom before being accepted.Separately, govt has so far approved Rs 4,687 crore as interest subsidy for eligible ethanol projects under its various support schemes, minister of state for petroleum Suresh Gopi told Parliament Monday. Under the schemes, govt bears an interest subvention of 6% or 50% of the interest rate charged by lenders, whichever is lower, for five years on loans taken to set up new distilleries or expand existing ethanol production capacity.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Daily Nadi Horoscope for Cancer (5th August 2026): Mercury in Cancer Makes Your Professional Intentions More Visible ‘A Fitting Farewell’: An Illinois family gave its old farmhouse one final purpose; about 100 firefighters trained inside before it burned Nora Fatehi breaks silence on dating rumours with Yassine Bounou, calls Moroccan goalkeeper ‘very kind’ and ‘one of the best in the world’ Daily Nadi Horoscope for Gemini (5th August 2026): Moon in Aries Brings New Contacts and Hopes of Future Gains Florida laboratory tests exposed endangered Caribbean corals to predatory bacteria; more than half showed no bleaching beyond the infection site The balance of research and development funding has shifted, with government and private industry now investing nearly the same amount. In recent years, private sector contributions to research have seen a notable rise. Government spending is concentrated on sectors deemed strategic and beneficial to the public. Additionally, multinational corporations are increasingly influential in shaping India’s research environment, although the overall research intensity still lags behind other major economies. BENGALURU: For every Rs 100 spent on R&D, the govt contributes about Rs 48 while private industry accounts for Rs 45, latest data from R&D Statistics At a Glance 2025-26 by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), shows.The remaining Rs 7 comes from scientific and industrial research organisations (SIROs) and private higher education institutions.India’s Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) breached Rs 2.4-lakh crore in 2023-24, more than three times the Rs 79,356 crore recorded a decade ago. However, overall R&D spend is still under 1% of the GDP, touching 0.8%, as per the latest figures.Private industry’s share in GERD increased from 39.7% in 2020-21 to 45.2% in 2023-24 in just three years. During the same period, govt share declined from 54.5% to 48.2%, although it continues to remain the country’s single largest contributor to research spending.The report notes that private R&D expenditure has been growing at an average annual rate of around 20% over the last three years.While the DST report’s detailed analysis is up to 2023-24, it has projected overall trends for two more years: “The upward [spending] trend is expected to continue, with GERD projected to reach nearly Rs 2.8-lakh-crore by 2024-25 and more than Rs 3.1-lakh-crore crore by 2025–26,” it reads.Govt spending continues to be concentrated in strategic and public-interest sectors. Among the Centre’s scientific agencies, DRDO accounted for 32.7%, followed by the Department of Space (15%), Department of Atomic Energy (14.4%), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (13.1%) and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (8.7%). Together, 12 major scientific agencies accounted for 76% of govt R&D spend.Transportation emerged as the biggest destination for industrial R&D, accounting for 32.6% of private sector expenditure, followed by pharmaceuticals (21.4%), biotechnology (8.6%), IT (7.9%) and electrical and electronics (5.9%).The report also highlights the growing role of MNCs in India’s research landscape. Their share in business R&D expenditure has increased from 49.9% in 2020-21 to 71.3% in 2023-24. According to the report, the growth rate of R&D expenditure has outpaced GDP growth after 2021-22, except in 2022-23, reflecting the increasing priority accorded to research and innovation.Despite the encouraging trends, India continues to trail many major economies in research intensity. At 0.8% of GDP, the country’s R&D expenditure remains below that of China (2.6%), Brazil (1.2%) and several advanced economies that invest more than 2% of their GDP in research.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesNevertheless, the latest figures point to a maturing innovation ecosystem where the burden of financing research is gradually shifting from being overwhelmingly government-led to one in which private enterprise is emerging as an almost equal partner.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.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 MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Cancer Horoscope Today, August 05, 2026: Day brings a sigh of relief as helpful connections usher in advantageous transformations New government schemes will offer significant financial support to Indian private space companies. These initiatives aim to boost domestic launch capabilities and global competitiveness for businesses. Subsidies will cover launch services, technology transfer, and access to ISRO facilities. The programs are designed to lower entry barriers and accelerate private sector growth. This support will make satellite data and infrastructure more affordable for Indian entities. BENGALURU: Indian private space companies and non-government entities will receive govt support ranging from 30% to 100% on everything from launch services and technology transfer to satellite data and access to Isro facilities under two new schemes of the Department of Space (DoS).The incentives — Launch Services Price-support Scheme (LSPS) and the Price Support Scheme — being implemented by Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) are aimed at lowering entry barriers, making Indian space businesses globally competitive and accelerating private participation across the sector.The larger of the two initiatives is the Launch Services Price-support Scheme, with a budget of Rs 800 crore over five years until June 2031. The scheme seeks to boost domestic commercial launch operations and strengthen India’s position as a global launch hub.IN-SPACe chairman Pawan Goenka told TOI: “The idea is to make the launches competitive. Therefore, we are trying to defray the cost of launch, thereby making the launch cost globally competitive. The ultimate beneficiary will be the satellite launch.”Under Category A, eligible entities can receive up to 50% support for using Isro and DoS launch facilities. The benefit extends to NGEs, government entities and launch vehicle providers.Category B offers a 30% subsidy on contractual launch costs, or up to $3,000 per kg, whichever is lower, for Indian small launch vehicles carrying satellites, experiments or payloads weighing up to 500 kg. The support is available to satellite owners and operators.The subsidy would apply to launches by Indian private entities from Indian soil too. “It will be applicable to [Skyroot’s] Vikram also. Any satellite launch by an Indian company… from Indian soil… we will directly pay the satellite guys $3,000 per kg,” Goenka said. He added that the policy is focused on promoting small launch vehicles where private sector participation is growing.Category C provides the highest level of support, offering 100% funding for repurposed upper-stage platforms carrying payloads of up to 120 kg. The funding is capped at $13,000 per kg and limited to four missions. The category is aimed at NGEs, govt entities and launch vehicle providers.Category D extends launch incentives to satellites weighing up to 100 kg launched aboard PSLV, GSLV and LVM3 missions. Beneficiaries will receive a 30% subsidy on contractual launch costs, or up to $3,000 per kg, whichever is lower.Complementing the launch incentives is a separate Price Support Scheme for Indian entities, which will run for three years until Feb 2029. The programme is intended to reduce the cost of accessing India’s space infrastructure, technologies and data.The scheme has three components. The first provides up to 50% support for the utilisation of DoS and In-SPACe facilities, along with technical expertise.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe second offers a 30% subsidy on Technology Transfer Fees (TTF) for technologies licensed from Isro, lowering the cost for companies seeking to commercialise govt-developed technologies.The third provides a 50% subsidy on standard Earth Observation data and data products, making satellite imagery and geospatial datasets more affordable for Indian companies developing applications in agriculture, urban planning, disaster management, climate services and other downstream sectors.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.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 MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Daily Nadi Horoscope for Taurus (5th August 2026): Mercury in Cancer May Reveal a Story Kept Secret Quote of the day by Chandrika Kumaratunga: ‘Power is a joke, but it gives me the authority to do what I think I need to do for the country’ Kashmir’s political landscape will witness separate protests from the NC and PDP this Wednesday, marking seven years since Article 370 was abrogated. The NC is pushing for the restoration of its statehood, whereas the PDP demands the reinstatement of Article 370. Meanwhile, BJP’s celebratory events, including a Tiranga rally from Lal Chowk, suggest a contrasting narrative on the changes in Jammu and Kashmir’s sentiments following the abrogation. SRINAGAR: NC and PDP announced plans for separate protests on Wednesday on the seventh anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 and bifurcation of erstwhile J&K into two Union territories. BJP said it would mark the day with celebratory events at its party headquarters and in districts.J&K’s governing NC said it would hold peaceful protests to demand the restoration of statehood while PDP said its demonstrations would seek the restoration of Article 370 and the release of political prisoners.“On this day, I would just say they (Centre) should fulfil their promise. They promised the people of J&K and the entire country that statehood would be restored after elections and delimitation. Both have been done,” NC chief Farooq Abdullah said.BJP spokesperson Sajid Yousuf Shah said the party would take out a Tiranga rally from Lal Chowk, adding the abrogation of Article 370 had changed the mood in J&K.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Gemini Horoscope Today, August 05, 2026: Unexpected changes in daily plans necessitate a flexible mindset In 2003, China planted small islands of native trees along a degraded river; 20 years later they held only 19–30% of an intact forest’s diversity and biomass Inspiring story of the day: “My father was always in a good mood, he loved football” – How Cristiano Ronaldo turned childhood poverty and loss into football greatness From 1952 to 2020, US inspectors recorded 2,562 woodwasp interceptions; researchers found wooden packaging was the dominant invasion pathway The Jammu Chief Judicial Magistrate has taken decisive action by ordering the preservation of evidence in a troubling case of fake silver offerings amounting to Rs 550 crore. In response to a petition seeking to secure all relevant physical and electronic evidence, the court acknowledged allegations of adulteration and pilferage concerning around twenty tonnes of silver. JAMMU: Jammu Chief Judicial Magistrate Munish Kumar Manhas, while hearing the case of alleged Rs 550 crore fake silver offerings at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji shrine last week, directed Deputy SP Bhawan, Katra, to submit a detailed inquiry report and ordered the preservation of evidence on the next date of hearing.The CJM’s orders came on July 29 following a petition filed by advocate Deepak Sharma seeking urgent preservation of all physical, documentary, and electronic evidence linked to the controversy alleging adulteration, substitution, pilferage and suspected misappropriation of approximately 20 tonnes of silver offerings devotees had made to the shrine.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe petitioner also sought safeguarding of the remaining silver or purported silver articles, samples, remnants, and residues, along with stock and vault records, weighing and dispatch registers, assay and laboratory reports, govt mint records, transportation documents and the complete chain-of-custody record. He sought protection of CCTV footage, electronic inventory data, official emails, server logs, access records, audit trails, accounting records, reconciliation statements and other digital evidence linked to the alleged scam.On May 9, Sharma submitted a complaint to IGP (crime branch) Jammu and SSP (crime branch, EOW) Jammu. The crime branch received the complaint on May 11 and forwarded it to its HQ on May 20 for further action. Crime branch HQ approved its reference to Zonal Police HQ on June 9, following which it was sent to IGP (Jammu) on June 13.The SSP said the case was currently in the inquiry stage, and no FIR had been registered yet.The CJM posted the next hearing on Aug 18.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Daily Nadi Horoscope for Aries (5th August 2026): Moon in Aries Speeds Emotions, but Mercury in Cancer Brings Family Pressure From apps to ‘intent’: How AI agents will rewrite the way we use next‑generation smartphones IShowSpeed criticizes Diamond Gym’s “fatigue maxxing” after seeing 300 burpees before workout | World News India has achieved a remarkable milestone in clean energy, generating over one thousand billion units from nuclear power. This achievement helps avoid more than 860 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. The government aims to increase nuclear power capacity to 100 GW by 2047, with an intermediate target of 22 GW by 2031-32. This expansion will involve multiple stakeholders and the introduction of new legislation. NEW DELHI: In a milestone for India’s clean energy production, Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) has cumulatively generated over 1,000 billion units of nuclear electricity.NPCIL said Tuesday, “Since commencement of commercial operation, NPCIL’s nuclear power plants have cumulatively generated over 1,000 billion units of clean electricity, thereby avoiding over 860 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions into the environment.”“This milestone reflects NPCIL’s steadfast commitment to deliver safe, reliable and sustainable nuclear power, strengthening India’s energy security while supporting the nation’s clean energy transition and climate goals,” it said on XTo give the scale of how much carbon emission is avoided, a typical passenger vehicle emits about 4.6 metric tonnes of CO2 per year. Avoiding 860 million tonnes is equal to taking roughly 187 million gasoline-powered cars going off the road for an entire year. At least 860 million tonnes is roughly equivalent to the total annual greenhouse gas emissions of a major industrial country like Germany or Japan for a full year.Govt has drawn up a roadmap for reaching the 100 GW nuclear power capacity in the next two decades by 2047, as announced in the Nuclear Energy Mission in the Budget 2025-26, thereby increasing the share of reliable, low-carbon base-load nuclear energy in the country’s energy mix and reaching the goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2070.The present nuclear power capacity of 8.78 GW is expected to reach about 22 GW by 2031-32 on progressive completion of projects presently at various stages of implementation. Another 32 GW of nuclear power capacity is envisaged to be set up beyond 2032 by NPCIL under the administrative control of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThis will comprise indigenous pressurised heavy water reactors (PHWRs) and light water reactors (LWRs) planned to be set up by 2047, taking NPCIL’s nuclear power capacity to 54 GW.The balance of 46 GW comprising reactors of different technologies, is expected to be set up by other public sector enterprises, private sector and joint ventures in different business models. With the govt enacting the SHANTI Act (Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Act, 2025) last year, the new law provides the legal framework that makes this 46 GW expansion possible.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Aries Horoscope Today, August 05, 2026: Mixed cosmic influences test confidence; pause before big decisions Scientists identified seven new diamond frog species in Madagascar after a 12-year search through forests and museum collections Egyptian doctor wrongly connects organ in a way that bowel waste is channeled back to stomach, UK cancels his licence A parliamentary panel has called attention to the frequent exclusion of MPs from events related to rural road schemes. NEW DELHI: A parliamentary panel in its report among various concerns pertaining to the centrally-sponsored rural road scheme PMGSY has brought into focus that despite advisories from the rural development ministry, MPs are often not invited for foundation laying and inauguration ceremonies.This, the committee observed, “undermines established parliamentary protocol”.To deal with the situation, Standing Committee on Rural Development and Panchayati Raj chaired by Congress MP Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka in its report tabled in Parliament Friday recommended that department of rural development (DoRD) “issue strict mandatory instructions” to state govts and authorities to invite the MP concerned or their representative at least 15 days in advance through multiple modes of communication like email, letter, and SMS.“High-quality photographs of the events, clearly depicting the MP’s participation along with the plaque, must be mandatorily uploaded on the Online Monitoring, Management and Accounting System (OMMAS) within seven days of the ceremony,” the panel has recommended.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesIt suggested instituting a quarterly monitoring mechanism to track compliance, linking persistent violations to administrative accountability, and conducting regular sensitisation programmes for officials for effective implementation of the 2022 advisory and enforcement of these protocols.These findings are part of the action taken on the recommendations made the panel in its 17th report on “Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)” (2024-25), in which it was highlighted that the committee has been frequently informed about the violation of norms/provisions of PMGSY pertaining to the protocol with regards to MPs.In the action taken reply, the ministry shared its advisory, dated Feb 2, 2022, with regard to invitation to the public representatives for foundation laying and inauguration ceremonies of PMGSY works. The committee has acknowledged the reply but called for measures to ensure compliance.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Daily Nadi Horoscope for 5 August 2026: Mercury’s Transit in Cancer May Bring Important Conversations After opening golf tournament, CM Omar says authorities must not allow repeat of migrant worker killings As UK oceans warm up, experts warn great white sharks are ‘already lurking off beaches’ and another toothy predator could follow Following intelligence indicating potential terror suspects in Poonch, security forces have launched coordinated operations in two strategic locations. Reports have confirmed sightings near Gujjar Naar and Kherowali dhok, prompting a thorough search in the isolated Dhara Sangla village by army and police units. As of Tuesday evening, no contact with the suspects has been reported. Earlier, a significant search initiative was executed in the Thanamandi area of Rajouri district. JAMMU: Security forces on Tuesday initiated joint cordon-and-search operations in two locations in J&K’s Poonch district after being alerted about the alleged movement of terror suspects.According to intelligence inputs, three terror suspects were seen near Gujjar Naar area, and four more were spotted close to Kherowali dhok (high-altitude temporary huts constructed by nomads) in the remote Dhara Sangla village in Surankote sector.Troops of the Army’s 16 Rashtriya Rifles and J&K Police’s Special Operations Group subsequently launched intensive searches. No contact was established with the terror suspects till Tuesday evening, even as both operations remained underway, officials said.Earlier on July 14, a massive combing operation was carried out across multiple villages in Rajouri district’s Thanamandi after CCTV footage purportedly captured the movement of two terror suspects in the area.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Tom Selleck Quote: Quote of the day by Tom Selleck: ‘Few of us are as good as we think we are; none of us is as good as we can be,’ when ‘Blue Bloods’ star explained perception and limits | US judge blocks New York’s ban on ICE officers wearing face masks NEW DELHI: The Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) Liberation, whose student wing All India Students Association (AISA) was at the forefront in the Cockroach Janta Party led protests at Jantar Mantar, has demanded that the voting age should be lowered to 16 from 18 years to empower the younger lot among Gen Z.This comes in the backdrop of the students protests that succeeded in getting Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan to resign. For the Left parties like CPI(ML)L, the victory of their student outfits in raising the issues affecting Gen Z, has emboldened them and provided an opportunity to connect with the students to take up their concerns related to education, employment and accountability.Attacking the govt over its use of force against protesters, CPI(ML) L general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya said, “In the protests at Jantar Mantar the world saw an awakening where Gen Z came out to talk about the things that affect them and sought accountability. I feel they are ready and therefore I feel voting age must be lowered,” Bhattacharya said.The voting age in India was brought down from 21 to 18 years through ‘The Constitution (Sixty-first Amendment) Act, 1988. While in most countries the age of voting is 18, in some countries like Argentina, Austria, Brazil, Cuba, Ecuador, Nicaragua, East Timor, Greece, and Indonesia 16 or 17 year olds can vote.Bhattacharya in a statement released by the party on Tuesday said that if the RSS really wants to listen to India’s Gen Z, they should lower the voting age to 16. In today’s digital era of information revolution, 16-year-olds are informed enough to make their political choices,” he said.“RSS is reportedly quite desperate to reach out to Gen Z. Mohan Bhagwat is all set to address 2,000 students aged 15 to 19 brought from 100 cities on August 6 at Mumbai’s Nita Mukesh Ambani Centre! The numbers are impressive, but what will be the outreach about?,” Bhattacharya asked.“Modi (PM Narendra Modi) has already talked about ‘culture shock’, invoking patriarchal prejudices against India’s ‘misled daughters’. The orchestrated backlash, both online and offline, is forcing 15-year-olds to offer apology videos,” he alleged.With this attack on the ruling dispensation, CPI(ML)L has set the pitch for its outreach to Gen Z. “In the protests at Jantar Mantar the world saw an awakening where Gen Z came out to talk about the things that affect them and sought accountability. I feel they are ready and therefore I feel voting age must be lowered,” Bhattacharya said.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesHe said that since he raised the demand on Tuesday, he has received positive responses from the youth. Bhattacharya plans to not only discuss this with AISA members but also take it up with Left parties – CPI(M) and CPI(ML) and also INDIA bloc members.Meanwhile, all set to keep up the momentum generated by the protests, the Left parties CPM, CPI(ML)L and CPI are working on stepping up coordination for the outreach among various sections at the grassroots including students. “The Left needs to coordinate with more focus as a group on issues and align with movements led by students, workers, women and farmers across states. To enable this we are working on a plan and a series of meetings have been held to discuss how we can improve coordination,” Bhattacharya said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Inside Kishore Kumar’s iconic Gouri Kunj bungalow in Juhu, where he composed timeless songs and spoke to trees, now home to Virat Kohli’s One8 Commune Student housing is India’s next real estate hotspot, says report: Here’s why | Over 170 migrants rescued after Channel boat catches fire; UK says ‘all will be returned’ to France Govt’s rooftop solar initiative has crossed the 50-lakh household milestone within 29 months NEW DELHI: Govt’s rooftop solar initiative, PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, has crossed the 50-lakh household milestone within 29 months of its launch in Feb 2024, achieving half of its target of one crore households by March 2027.According to new and renewable energy ministry, more than five lakh households installed rooftop solar plants in July, the highest monthly addition since the scheme began. Officials said nearly one lakh new households are being added under the scheme every six days, making it one of the fastest-growing clean energy programmes in the world.“The pace of installation has increased 3.2 times over the last nine months, rising from 5,038 installations a day in Oct 2025 to nearly 16,328 a day in July 2026,” the ministry said in a statement.When the scheme was launched in 2024, the country had fewer than eight lakh rooftop solar installations.Of the scheme’s Rs 75,021-crore outlay, govt has already disbursed Rs 28,024 crore directly to beneficiaries through direct benefit transfer. So far, nearly 19 lakh households have recorded zero electricity bills in at least one billing cycle, significantly reducing their power expenses.The ministry said more than 12 lakh households earned a combined Rs 421 crore by selling surplus electricity to the grid in FY 2024-25, translating into an additional income of around Rs 3,500 a year per household.Cumulatively, 14.8 GW of rooftop solar capacity has been commissioned under the scheme so far.The ministry said 1.6 lakh installations have been completed for Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana beneficiaries, Below Poverty Line families, and SC/ST households across four states under the utility-led aggregation model. The model enables low-income households to install rooftop solar systems while helping states reduce their power subsidy burden.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesGovt has also solarised 25,255 govt buildings with a combined rooftop solar capacity of 872 MW, against 41,542 buildings where installations totalling 1,418 MW are considered feasible. Overall, states have identified around 3.2 lakh govt buildings with an estimated rooftop solar potential of 4,400 MW. Of these, 81,329 buildings with a combined capacity of 1,450 MW have already been solarised, the ministry said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.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 MediaVideosSecurity On High Alert: Pak Drone Sighted In Jammu On Eve Of Article 370 Abrogation AnniversaryNot A Single Woman In Karnataka Cabinet? Congress Faces Tough QuestionsExplained: Why Jharkhand Students Are Distancing Their JPSC Protest From The Jantar Mantar AgitationGovernment Proposes V2V Technology To Enable Real-Time Vehicle Communication For Better Road Safety’Cannot Tear Open My Chest’: Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren’s First Reaction To JPSC Student Protest’Thought We Would Die’: Air India Phuket-Delhi Flight Hit By Violent Turbulence, Several InjuredNHAI Forced Into U-Turn After Posting Wrong Pic Of Rajasthan’s NH-25; Project Director SuspendedUdhayanidhi Stalin Released Hours After Arrest Over ‘Double Meaning’ RemarkSC Extends Section 498A Protection To Women In Marriage-Like Live-In RelationshipsWhatsApp Puts Multiple Accounts Under Review, Users Locked Out As Company Admits Mistakes Can Happen123PhotostoriesThe first date was amazing. So why wasn’t there a second? 9 reasons it happens more often than you think12 dhaba-style potato dishes that are perfect for lunch and dinnerWant siblings who stay close for life? These everyday parenting habits can make all the difference10 baby boy names inspired by kings and royaltyTamannaah Bhatia turns heads with 3 dramatically different looksBleeding gums may be warning you about more than your teeth: Doctor explains the link to heart disease, stroke and diabetesOptical illusion brain teaser: You might be a record breaker if you spot the ‘blue-eyed fox’ among the browns in this jungleThe way you react today becomes your child’s inner voice tomorrow: 7 everyday moments that shape your child’s future more than any parenting advice ever could13 iconic ice creams from around the world every dessert lover should tryHow to talk to toddlers to nurture intelligence: Science-backed tips123Hot PicksCJP nationwide tourGold Rate TodayMJPRU resultBSE SensexRBI FD ruleManmohan Singh LiberhanKarnataka cabinet expansionUdhayanidhi StalinD Y PatilTop TrendingFaridabad MurderUdhayanidhi StalinPanchkula Army Captain Wife DeathPappu Yadav Slipper AttackPM ModiKarnataka Cabinet ExpansionTrisha KrishnanD Y Patil DeathBypoll Election Result 2026Shradha Singh Airtel Q1 profit jumps 37% to Rs 8,167 crore In 1950s, the US built a neighbourhood upon 22,000 tons of buried toxic waste, then children began returning home with burns exposing the worst environmental scandal of the country Department of Homeland Security plan that hints at US government increasing fees for H-1B and L-1 visas for large companies Why vultures don’t get sick from eating rotten meat; the remarkable adaptations that make them nature’s ultimate clean-up crew Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan return from holiday, Aaradhya Bachchan’s ‘namaste’ to the paps wins the internet as she twins in black with her mother – WATCH VIDEO