VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html ‘Showed me video of girl branded on tongue with hot iron rod’: Teen drugged, recorded, raped in Gujarat Scorpio Horoscope Today, June 21, 2026: This is a supportive day for speculation and bold financial movement Modi a tough cookie, 1 of my 2 favourite world leaders: Trump Cristiano Ronaldo’s fiancée Georgina Rodriguez poses in stunning swimsuit aboard luxury yacht amid Portugal’s World Cup struggle Libra Horoscope Today, June 21, 2026: At work, your communication becomes your edge Fortnite Gummy Sprite Power Hour (June 20, 2026): Start timings for all regions | Esports News Trump warns of US tolls in Hormuz if final Iran agreement fails Updated: Jun 21, 2026, 03:31 IST Leo Horoscope Today, June 21, 2026: You may choose to cancel shopping and stay home, and that’s not a bad call UK PM Keir Starmer expected to announce resignation on Monday: Report The EV dilemma: Why Delhi’s mechanics and dealers are wary of going electric Virgo Horoscope Today, June 21, 2026: Make sure your finances are in order and refrain from buying things to boost your mood At Lahore’s ‘Eton’, Pakistani alum pays tribute to Indian dost FSSAI turns lens on ‘natural’, ‘healthy’ labels | India News Cancer Horoscope Today, June 21, 2026: Money comes, but through effort only Protests mount in Bangladesh overalleged desecration of Hindu deity Rs 28 LPA in Bengaluru or $60K per year in US: Indian student on F-1 visa asks which one is wiser to choose Digital marking: CBSE to consult stakeholders | India News Ajay Pant, captain of a sanctioned Russian shadow-fleet oil tanker has been arrested in the UK LONDON/DEHRADUN: The Indian captain of a sanctioned Russian shadow-fleet oil tanker intercepted by British armed forces while crossing the English Channel en route from Russia to India has been arrested in the UK and appeared in court charged with breaching sanctions, even as his family in Uttarakhand appealed to the Indian govt to secure his safe return.Ajay Pant, 38, a resident of Nainital, appeared via video link at Southampton magistrates’ court from Bournemouth PS on June 16, charged with “directly or indirectly supplying or delivering prohibited Russian oil from Russia to a third country by ship, in contravention of Regulation 46Z9B of Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019.”His solicitor, James Diamond, told the court: “It was not his choice as to where this vessel was going or the cargo this vessel was carrying. He was simply following orders from those in the corporation. He is just an employee doing his job who now finds himself before a British court.”Prosecutor Varun Chuni said Royal Marines and National Crime Agency boarded MV Smyrtos on June 14 after it entered UK territorial waters without a legitimate flag. Pant, identified as the vessel’s master, was arrested and remanded in custody. District judge David Robinson sent the case to Bournemouth crown court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on July 16. The offence carries a maximum sentence of 10 years.Uttarakhand home secretary Shailesh Bagauli told TOI that the state govt had written to Centre seeking assistance. “We wrote to MEA two days ago to seek their assistance for Pant’s release and return. Our regional commissioner based in Delhi is coordinating with central authorities in the matter,” he said.The Indian high commission in UK has been granted consular access to Pant. Twenty-four crew members from Georgia and India remain on board the vessel, anchored off Weymouth in Dorset and being monitored for environmental and safety concerns.Pant’s wife Ritu said she learnt of her husband’s arrest through British media reports on social media, with no official communication from either UK or Indian authorities. She said his maritime career of over 15 years had been “spotless” and that he was “just following orders from his corporation to captain the ship, and is not at fault”.According to Lloyd’s List, Smyrtos loaded 1,01,400 tonnes of Urals crude at Russia’s Ust-Luga terminal on June 4 and was headed to Sikka port in Gujarat. The tanker had flown the Cameroonian flag since December, but Cameroon removed it and 35 other shadow-fleet vessels from its registry earlier this month, leaving it stateless.The boarding operation – the first of its kind led by the UK – saw Royal Marine commandos descend from a Chinook helicopter onto the tanker at night, with NCA officers inspecting its paperwork. UK PM Keir Starmer said he had personally directed the operation, calling it “another blow to Russia”.Smyrtos has been under the European Union and UK sanctions since Oct 2025. Britain’s defence ministry described it as part of a shadow fleet of 700 ships that transports 75% of Russia’s sanctioned oil exports and helps fund the war against Ukraine.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Shashi Tharoor Hears What PM Modi Does Not Say’: Congress Leader Khera Takes SwipeAkal Takht Releases Video Of Bhagwant Mann’s Appearance Before It Over Controversial VideoPM Modi Targets Cong, TMC, Left In Bengal: ‘When There Was Attempt To Make It Pakistan’s Part…’India’s Passport Ranking Improves, But How Strong Is It Really?’Atmanirbhar Navy’: PM Modi To Commission 3 Indigenous Naval Warships In Kolkata | Watch’Bring Back Pakistan To Grey List’: Owaisi To Modi Govt As India Gets FATF Vice PresidencyMaharashtra: 5 Dead, 17 Injured After Under-Construction Temple Roof Collapses In Parbhani’Candidate’s Own Login’: NTA Says Nagpur NEET Candidate Himself Selected Abu Dhabi As CentreNTA Gears Up For NEET Re-Test As Massive Security Exercise Takes Place Nationwide | WatchPM Modi Wishes President Murmu On Birthday, Joins Her In Odisha To Launch Development Projects123PhotostoriesExclusive – Khatron Ke Khiladi 15’s Vishal Aditya Singh on returning to the show: ‘I come from a small town where life itself felt like a stunt, but KKK taught me discipline and focus’Success quote of the day by Michelle Obama: “Do not bring people into your life who…”The world’s longest-living people almost never do this: What scientists learned from studying centenarians across blue zonesThe scan may be clear, but the journey isn’t over: Doctors explain the untold reality of life after cancer5 Times Shah Rukh Khan proved he is a hands-on dadFather’s Day 2026: 10 quotes that sum up the love of dad7 Beautiful hanging plants that can instantly elevate your living roomPresident Droupadi Murmu loves this protein and fiber-rich vegetarian Odia dish; detailed recipe insideWhat happens when you soak dal for 30 minutes before cookingVitamin D supplements not working? 3 common mistakes people make, heart surgeon reveals123Hot PicksNeeraj ChopraScotland Vs MoroccoBrazil Vs HaltiJIO IPOUddhav ThackerayAbhishek BanerjeeEknath ShindeSamanta BullockLondon Train TragedyTop TrendingBihar gang-rapeUS-Iran Peace DealStock Market LiveFIFA World Cup 2026What is Legacy BadgeBEST bus strikeAIIMS BSc Nursing Admit CardMHT CET PCM 2nd attempt resultsGold rate todayIndia-UK FTA Gemini Horoscope Today, June 21, 2026: This is a hard-work day, no sugar-coating it Man beaten to death while trying to board train at Delhi’s Shahdara railway station Maximum in a day: Three Indian-flagged ships safely cross Strait of Hormuz | India News PM Modi to commission 2 warships into Navy Shashi Tharoor (IANS) NEW DELHI: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor’s statement that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had conveyed India’s concerns to US President Donald Trump regarding the safety of civilian sailors has earned him the ire of his party. “Admiration for PM Modi appears to have transcended the limitations of the physical world” and he now “seems capable of hearing what Modi doesn’t even say”, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said in response to queries regarding Tharoor’s remarks which were at odds with leader of opposition Rahul Gandhi’s allegation that PM had not taken up with Trump the issue of deaths of three Indian seafarers who were killed by the US navy after their Palau-flagged ship breached the US-imposed naval blockade. Tharoor responded on X that he found it extraordinary that a statement about protecting Indian civilian sailors was “being twisted into a partisan political controversy”. Tharoor’s statement saying that the PM had raised the issue of Indian seafarers with the US President, led BJP to take a dig at Rahul Gandhi. “Dr Shashi Tharoor contradicted Rahul Gandhi’s stand on the same issue…” party spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said. “Not just that, Tharoor has effusively praised PM Modi’s vision, articulation, dynamism and oratory. He has said Modi has left a stamp on the lives of Indians,” he added.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Shashi Tharoor Hears What PM Modi Does Not Say’: Congress Leader Khera Takes SwipeAkal Takht Releases Video Of Bhagwant Mann’s Appearance Before It Over Controversial VideoPM Modi Targets Cong, TMC, Left In Bengal: ‘When There Was Attempt To Make It Pakistan’s Part…’India’s Passport Ranking Improves, But How Strong Is It Really?’Atmanirbhar Navy’: PM Modi To Commission 3 Indigenous Naval Warships In Kolkata | Watch’Bring Back Pakistan To Grey List’: Owaisi To Modi Govt As India Gets FATF Vice PresidencyMaharashtra: 5 Dead, 17 Injured After Under-Construction Temple Roof Collapses In Parbhani’Candidate’s Own Login’: NTA Says Nagpur NEET Candidate Himself Selected Abu Dhabi As CentreNTA Gears Up For NEET Re-Test As Massive Security Exercise Takes Place Nationwide | WatchPM Modi Wishes President Murmu On Birthday, Joins Her In Odisha To Launch Development Projects123PhotostoriesExclusive – Khatron Ke Khiladi 15’s Vishal Aditya Singh on returning to the show: ‘I come from a small town where life itself felt like a stunt, but KKK taught me discipline and focus’Success quote of the day by Michelle Obama: “Do not bring people into your life who…”The world’s longest-living people almost never do this: What scientists learned from studying centenarians across blue zonesThe scan may be clear, but the journey isn’t over: Doctors explain the untold reality of life after cancer5 Times Shah Rukh Khan proved he is a hands-on dadFather’s Day 2026: 10 quotes that sum up the love of dad7 Beautiful hanging plants that can instantly elevate your living roomPresident Droupadi Murmu loves this protein and fiber-rich vegetarian Odia dish; detailed recipe insideWhat happens when you soak dal for 30 minutes before cookingVitamin D supplements not working? 3 common mistakes people make, heart surgeon reveals123Hot PicksNeeraj ChopraScotland Vs MoroccoBrazil Vs HaltiJIO IPOUddhav ThackerayAbhishek BanerjeeEknath ShindeSamanta BullockLondon Train TragedyTop TrendingBihar gang-rapeUS-Iran Peace DealStock Market LiveFIFA World Cup 2026What is Legacy BadgeBEST bus strikeAIIMS BSc Nursing Admit CardMHT CET PCM 2nd attempt resultsGold rate todayIndia-UK FTA Germany vs Ivory Coast, FIFA World Cup 2026 Live Score: Germany 0-0 Ivory Coast, Havertz denied by Fofana Dilip Kumar had a second marriage with Asma, 16 years after wedding with Saira Banu: ‘Can never forgive myself for the hurt I caused her’ | Hindi Movie News Taurus Horoscope Today, June 21, 2026: Buy for comfort, but keep a firm cap on household spending Indian, Pak Army officers shake hands during a repatriation process along LoC ‘Can I survive with Rs 6 crore in India without a job?’ Indian man on Green Card queue gets laid off Jun 21, 2026, 01:19 IST Garudastra, India’s heaviest 120-mm vehicle-mounted mortar system, successfully tested Aries Horoscope Today, June 21, 2026: This is a supportive day for speculation and calculated investment How to use Roblox Sound IDs with the Megaphone in Grow a Garden 2 The ‘curse’ of Bhangarh: Science or supernatural? Sonam Khan clarifies she did not have an affair with Rajiv Rai during ‘Tridev’ and ‘Oye Oye Tirchi Topi Wale’: ‘No romance, no so-called director privilege’ Kheer Bhawani yatra begins; 8,500 pilgrims in 214 buses leave Jammu | India News Cocaine hidden inside cheese powder box: Indian man arrested on US-Canada border, says he didn’t know about the drug Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) called Saturday a shutdown in Ladakh SRINAGAR: Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) called Saturday a shutdown in Ladakh on June 23, accusing the Centre of backtracking on agreements reached during talks on May 22 and warning that their “patience should not be tested”.The two main political groups in the Union territory claimed draft minutes of the meeting with a Union home ministry (MHA) sub-committee have not included agreement on a proposed legislative setup with powers over the bureaucracy and constitutional safeguards for Ladakh under a new provision akin to Article 371. Sonam Wangchuk, LAB member and environmentalist, was part of the talks held in Delhi and described later by both groups as “historic”.LAB and KDA warned that if the “two essentials” are not reflected in the final minutes, they would return to their original demand of “full statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh”. This has raised fears of another phase of agitation during Ladakh’s peak tourist season.According to LAB co-chairman Chering Dorjay Lakrook, a draft of the meeting’s minutes had been shared with him, but after he pointed out what he described as “omissions” and sought corrections, the revised minutes were not released or sent back to him.“It is a grave concern for us. These are crucial issues for Ladakh and we expect govt to rectify the omissions and faithfully incorporate the decisions in official records. Govt should adhere to understandings reached at the meeting. It cannot be a case of taking two steps forward and two steps backward. Such an approach raises questions about govt’s intentions,” Lakrook said Saturday.The LAB co-chairman made it clear that a planned visit by the Dalai Lama would not stop protests. “Govt should not assume public mobilisation will not take place because His Holiness the Dalai Lama is expected to visit Ladakh. There are many democratic ways to protest,” Lakrook said.The Tibetan spiritual leader is slated to arrive on June 28 for an extended stay, with govt planning grand celebrations in Ladakh to mark his 91st birthday on July 6.In a “final appeal”, KDA co-chairman Asgar Ali Karbali warned the Centre “not to test the patience” of Ladakh’s people further. “. We have given sufficient time to govt. The patience and tolerance of Ladakhis have limits. If those limits are crossed, this movement can take many forms,” Karbali said.Several rounds of talks have been held with the Centre on Ladakh since 2023. The process stopped after four people were killed and over 80 injured on Sept 24, 2025, in alleged police firing on protesters in Leh demanding statehood. LAB’s Wangchuk was accused of inciting the protesters, arrested, charged under NSA and kept in Jodhpur jail. The Centre revoked his NSA detention in March this year.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Shashi Tharoor Hears What PM Modi Does Not Say’: Congress Leader Khera Takes SwipeAkal Takht Releases Video Of Bhagwant Mann’s Appearance Before It Over Controversial VideoPM Modi Targets Cong, TMC, Left In Bengal: ‘When There Was Attempt To Make It Pakistan’s Part…’India’s Passport Ranking Improves, But How Strong Is It Really?’Atmanirbhar Navy’: PM Modi To Commission 3 Indigenous Naval Warships In Kolkata | Watch’Bring Back Pakistan To Grey List’: Owaisi To Modi Govt As India Gets FATF Vice PresidencyMaharashtra: 5 Dead, 17 Injured After Under-Construction Temple Roof Collapses In Parbhani’Candidate’s Own Login’: NTA Says Nagpur NEET Candidate Himself Selected Abu Dhabi As CentreNTA Gears Up For NEET Re-Test As Massive Security Exercise Takes Place Nationwide | WatchPM Modi Wishes President Murmu On Birthday, Joins Her In Odisha To Launch Development Projects123PhotostoriesSuccess quote of the day by Michelle Obama: “Do not bring people into your life who…”The world’s longest-living people almost never do this: What scientists learned from studying centenarians across blue zonesThe scan may be clear, but the journey isn’t over: Doctors explain the untold reality of life after cancer5 Times Shah Rukh Khan proved he is a hands-on dadFather’s Day 2026: 10 quotes that sum up the love of dad7 Beautiful hanging plants that can instantly elevate your living roomPresident Droupadi Murmu loves this protein and fiber-rich vegetarian Odia dish; detailed recipe insideWhat happens when you soak dal for 30 minutes before cookingVitamin D supplements not working? 3 common mistakes people make, heart surgeon revealsTeenagers who feel close to their parents make safer choices: 7 activities parents can do with their teens to build deeper connection123Hot PicksNeeraj ChopraScotland Vs MoroccoBrazil Vs HaltiJIO IPOUddhav ThackerayAbhishek BanerjeeEknath ShindeSamanta BullockLondon Train TragedyTop TrendingBihar gang-rapeUS-Iran Peace DealStock Market LiveFIFA World Cup 2026What is Legacy BadgeBEST bus strikeAIIMS BSc Nursing Admit CardMHT CET PCM 2nd attempt resultsGold rate todayIndia-UK FTA Horoscope Today: Daily astrological predictions for June 21, 2026 Iran closes Hormuz Strait again over Israel attacks on Lebanon that killed over 20 J&K authorities ordered an inquiry and suspended an interventional cardiologist SRINAGAR: J&K authorities ordered an inquiry and suspended an interventional cardiologist Saturday over allegations that he recorded 103 advanced pacemaker procedures under an Ayushman Bharat PMJAY category that did not cover them, allowing patients to claim govt insurance benefits.Dr Syed Maqbool, an associate professor at Govt Medical College in Anantnag allegedly recorded “left bundle branch area pacing” (LBBAP) procedures as dual-chamber pacemaker implantations under Ayushman Bharat, according to an internal health and medical education department report. It said medical college’s laboratory records showed patients underwent LBBAP, an advanced technique, rather than conventional dual-chamber pacemaker implantation.Govt cited a technical report attributed to Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences in Srinagar, which said 27 of 55 patients had “normal ventricular function”, making surgery “completely unindicated.” Senior SKIMS officials distanced themselves from that assessment, saying administration had no role in preparing it. They said govt had privately sought opinions from cardiologists who are now retired.Maqbool rejected the allegations. “We replied to every allegation with documentary evidence. Matter is under consideration and we have full faith in the system,” he said. According to sources, Maqbool’s detailed rebuttal was not included in the report. The health secretary who ordered an inquiry did not respond to calls.The suspension has triggered a wider medical debate over LBBAP, a newer pacing technique that places a lead near the heart’s conduction system.Doctors said Maqbool selected LBBAP because it can offer better clinical outcomes than conventional dual-chamber pacing. They said Ayushman Bharat did not cover LBBAP, forcing doctors to use the dual-chamber category so patients could access insurance support.Under that arrangement, Ayushman Bharat covered part of the cost while patients paid private suppliers directly for specialised LBBAP hardware and equipment. Without it, patients would have had to bear the full cost, doctors said.Dr Khalil Kanjwal, a Michigan-based senior electrophysiologist, wrote on social media that LBBAP should be performed in all patients needing a dual-chamber pacemaker. “There are many benefits of this pacing and no harm compared to septal pacing,” he said. “I do these procedures routinely and all of our patients who come to my lab for a dual chamber pacemaker receive a left bundle pacemaker.”Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Shashi Tharoor Hears What PM Modi Does Not Say’: Congress Leader Khera Takes SwipeAkal Takht Releases Video Of Bhagwant Mann’s Appearance Before It Over Controversial VideoPM Modi Targets Cong, TMC, Left In Bengal: ‘When There Was Attempt To Make It Pakistan’s Part…’India’s Passport Ranking Improves, But How Strong Is It Really?’Atmanirbhar Navy’: PM Modi To Commission 3 Indigenous Naval Warships In Kolkata | Watch’Bring Back Pakistan To Grey List’: Owaisi To Modi Govt As India Gets FATF Vice PresidencyMaharashtra: 5 Dead, 17 Injured After Under-Construction Temple Roof Collapses In Parbhani’Candidate’s Own Login’: NTA Says Nagpur NEET Candidate Himself Selected Abu Dhabi As CentreNTA Gears Up For NEET Re-Test As Massive Security Exercise Takes Place Nationwide | WatchPM Modi Wishes President Murmu On Birthday, Joins Her In Odisha To Launch Development Projects123PhotostoriesSuccess quote of the day by Michelle Obama: “Do not bring people into your life who…”The world’s longest-living people almost never do this: What scientists learned from studying centenarians across blue zonesThe scan may be clear, but the journey isn’t over: Doctors explain the untold reality of life after cancer5 Times Shah Rukh Khan proved he is a hands-on dadFather’s Day 2026: 10 quotes that sum up the love of dad7 Beautiful hanging plants that can instantly elevate your living roomPresident Droupadi Murmu loves this protein and fiber-rich vegetarian Odia dish; detailed recipe insideWhat happens when you soak dal for 30 minutes before cookingVitamin D supplements not working? 3 common mistakes people make, heart surgeon revealsTeenagers who feel close to their parents make safer choices: 7 activities parents can do with their teens to build deeper connection123Hot PicksNeeraj ChopraScotland Vs MoroccoBrazil Vs HaltiJIO IPOUddhav ThackerayAbhishek BanerjeeEknath ShindeSamanta BullockLondon Train TragedyTop TrendingBihar gang-rapeUS-Iran Peace DealStock Market LiveFIFA World Cup 2026What is Legacy BadgeBEST bus strikeAIIMS BSc Nursing Admit CardMHT CET PCM 2nd attempt resultsGold rate todayIndia-UK FTA Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Shweta Bachchan Ranbir Kapoor, Ravi Kishan: Celebs attend Supriya Sule’s daughter’s wedding – WATCH VIDEOS | Controversy erupts after songs from Vijay movies, TVK campaigns played during convocations at Coimbatore medical colleges Various security measures including police deployment, AI-monitored CCTV have been taken NEW DELHI: The national testing agency has made robust arrangements to ensure smooth conduct of NEET re-exam on June 21. Various measures such as pre-exam checks have been conducted across by authorities to ensure security.The NEET (UG) 2026 re-examination will be held on June 21 from 2:00 pm to 5:15 pm, with the additional 15 minutes allotted for pre-exam formalities and instructions.One of the main measure enforces the ban of Telegram app till the exam in conducted with govt claiming the app has been used to leak papers and thus, the ban will remain to ensure confidentiality and fairness.Additionally, in one of the most visible security measures, the government enlisted the Indian Air Force (IAF) to transport NEET-UG question papers. Since June 13, IAF transport aircraft and Mi-17 helicopters have carried out nearly 200 sorties to airlift sealed question paper packets to 18 designated distribution zones across the country, from where they are being moved to examination centres under tight security. Officials said the move was aimed at ensuring foolproof and time-bound delivery ahead of the June 21 re-exam.NTA’s statementNTA itself gave various assurances during the day. “On the eve of the NEET (UG) 2026 examination, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has put in place comprehensive arrangements to ensure a fair, secure and candidate-friendly examination,” it said.”The examination will be held in more than 95,000 examination rooms, each equipped with CCTV. A total of 13,560 CCTV cameras have been installed, with feeds monitored virtually at the National, State and Ministry levels. To secure the examination against electronic malpractice, 51,311 jammers have been deployed (17,054 by ECIL and 34,257 by BEL),” it added.Further detailing the security measures, it said, “Extensive personnel have been mobilised for examination-day duties. Each of the more than 95,000 examination rooms will have two invigilators, and every centre is staffed with more than ten additional examination functionaries. Candidate verification has been strengthened with 38,795 frisking staff and 48,448 personnel for biometric verification, with biometric manpower doubled and supported by face authentication so that verification is thorough while queues at centres are kept to a minimum.”The NTA said a Centre Systems Officer has been deployed at each of the 5,440 centres to monitor CCTV feeds and address technical issues. Around 6,700 observers and over 100 virtual observers will monitor the examination, with AI-based tools analysing live CCTV footage to flag anomalies. Authorities have also mobilised police, paramilitary personnel and other agencies, while a nationwide mock drill was conducted on June 20 to test all security systems, including CCTV cameras, jammers, frisking procedures and biometric verification.Additionally, a nationwide mock drill was conducted across the country on Saturday on the eve of the re-examin as part of efforts to ensure smooth, secure and transparent conduct of the medical entrance test, officials said.Earlier on Friday NTA said a comprehensive security framework has been implemented to ensure the integrity of the examination process. Confidential examination materials were transported under strict security protocols through GPS-enabled vehicles accompanied by police escorts. CCTV surveillance, Aadhaar-based biometric authentication and real-time monitoring systems have also been deployed at examination centres.Key security measuresHere are some of the key security measures takenIAF conducts nearly 200 sortiesOne of the most significant measures introduced ahead of the NEET-UG re-examination is the deployment of the Indian Air Force (IAF) for the transportation of question papers. According to officials, IAF transport aircraft and Mi-17 helicopters have carried out nearly 200 sorties over the past several days to airlift sealed question paper packets to 18 designated distribution hubs across the country.The operation was launched to ensure secure and time-bound delivery of examination material following the controversy over alleged paper leaks in the original examination. From these hubs, the question papers are being transported to examination centres under police escort and strict security protocols. Officials said the use of military aircraft was aimed at guaranteeing a “foolproof” delivery system and minimising the risk of any disruption in the movement of confidential material.AI tools to monitor live CCTV feedsTechnology has emerged as a central pillar of the security architecture put in place for the examination. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has installed more than 13,500 CCTV cameras across examination centres, with feeds being monitored at national, state and ministry levels. Around 6,700 observers and over 100 virtual observers have also been deployed to oversee the examination process.For the first time, AI-powered tools will analyse live CCTV footage to identify suspicious activity and flag anomalies in real time. Authorities believe the additional layer of monitoring will help detect unusual patterns that may otherwise go unnoticed. Candidate verification has also been strengthened through biometric authentication, fingerprint scanning and facial recognition checks. In Tamil Nadu, for instance, candidates will undergo stringent biometric verification before entering examination halls.Police deployment scaled up across statesAlongside technological safeguards, authorities have mounted massive security operations. Police forces, intelligence agencies, cyber units, district administrations and, in some locations, paramilitary personnel have been mobilised to secure examination centres, question paper storage facilities and transportation routes.In Uttar Pradesh, where a large number of candidates are expected to appear for the examination, authorities have put in place a three-tier security arrangement. In Lucknow alone, the examination will be conducted across 75 centres. Joint Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Babloo Kumar said, “The police deployment is structured into three tiers. The first team will be responsible for safely transporting the question papers to the centers and bringing back the answer sheets. The second team has been deployed to handle the checking and frisking of candidates and teachers using HHMDs. The third tier will manage law and order and security on the outer premises.”Similar arrangements have been made in other states. Ahmedabad Police have activated all six zonal DCPs and 15 police stations, while Rajasthan has deployed police personnel, Special Operations Group (SOG) teams and intelligence agencies to monitor centres and strong rooms round the clock. In Karnataka’s Haveri district, Central Paramilitary Forces have been deployed to strengthen security arrangements.Jammers, drone surveillance to curb malpracticeAuthorities have also introduced extensive anti-cheating measures aimed at preventing electronic malpractice and organised attempts to compromise the examination. Nationally, more than 51,000 jammers have been deployed to block unauthorised electronic communication during the test.In Ahmedabad, police will deploy drone surveillance and Quick Response Teams around examination centres. DCP Reema Munshi said, “The Crime Branch is deploying a Quick Response Team (QRT) and conducting drone surveillance. The Cyber Crime Branch will monitor social media to prevent any negative content from causing panic.”Several states have supplemented these efforts with local monitoring systems. Jharkhand has equipped all 67 examination centres with CCTV cameras and mobile signal jammers, while Rajasthan has activated technical surveillance systems and social media monitoring to identify attempts at malpractice. Kota authorities have also directed coaching institutes to report suspicious activity related to paper leaks or cyber fraud.Response Teams around examination centres, while the Cyber Crime Branch will monitor social media platforms for rumours, fake paper leak claims and content that could trigger panic among candidates. Jharkhand has equipped all 67 examination centres with CCTV cameras and mobile signal jammers, while Rajasthan has activated technical surveillance systems and social media monitoring to identify attempts at malpractice. Kota authorities have also directed coaching institutes to report suspicious activity related to paper leaks or cyber fraud.Security tightenedAuthorities in multiple states have established security perimeters around examination venues and strengthened monitoring of surrounding areas. The measures are aimed at preventing unauthorised access, crowding and any activity that could interfere with the conduct of the examination.In Ranchi, prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS will be enforced within a 200-metre radius of examination centres, restricting public gatherings and other activities during the examination period. Similar restrictions have been imposed in Dehradun, where police escorts will accompany question paper transportation and inspector-rank officers will supervise examination centres.Highlighting the scale of preparations in the state, Jharkhand’s Jamshedpur deputy commissioner Rajiv Ranjan said, “All preparations to conduct free and fair examination have been put in place. Proper security arrangements have been ensured, such as deploying CCTV cameras and mobile signal jammers.”Candidate welfare measures amid tight securityWhile security remains the primary focus, authorities have also announced several measures aimed at ensuring a smoother experience for candidates and their families, particularly in view of the summer heat.In Delhi, the government has established cooling zones equipped with seating, drinking water, ORS, shikanji and first-aid facilities at examination centres. Chief minister Rekha Gupta said the government was working to provide a comfortable and stress-free environment for students appearing for the re-examination amid prevailing heat conditions. Candidates will also be allowed free travel on DTC buses upon presentation of their admit cards.Elsewhere, authorities have focused on medical preparedness and basic facilities. In Karnataka’s Davanagere district, doctors will be stationed at examination centres, while officials have ensured adequate lighting, toilet facilities and dedicated safety rooms. Administrations across several states have also reviewed contingency plans for electricity, emergency response and crowd management to minimise disruptions on examination day.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Shashi Tharoor Hears What PM Modi Does Not Say’: Congress Leader Khera Takes SwipeAkal Takht Releases Video Of Bhagwant Mann’s Appearance Before It Over Controversial VideoPM Modi Targets Cong, TMC, Left In Bengal: ‘When There Was Attempt To Make It Pakistan’s Part…’India’s Passport Ranking Improves, But How Strong Is It Really?’Atmanirbhar Navy’: PM Modi To Commission 3 Indigenous Naval Warships In Kolkata | Watch’Bring Back Pakistan To Grey List’: Owaisi To Modi Govt As India Gets FATF Vice PresidencyMaharashtra: 5 Dead, 17 Injured After Under-Construction Temple Roof Collapses In Parbhani’Candidate’s Own Login’: NTA Says Nagpur NEET Candidate Himself Selected Abu Dhabi As CentreNTA Gears Up For NEET Re-Test As Massive Security Exercise Takes Place Nationwide | WatchPM Modi Wishes President Murmu On Birthday, Joins Her In Odisha To Launch Development Projects123PhotostoriesSuccess quote of the day by Michelle Obama: “Do not bring people into your life who…”The world’s longest-living people almost never do this: What scientists learned from studying centenarians across blue zonesThe scan may be clear, but the journey isn’t over: Doctors explain the untold reality of life after cancer5 Times Shah Rukh Khan proved he is a hands-on dadFather’s Day 2026: 10 quotes that sum up the love of dad7 Beautiful hanging plants that can instantly elevate your living roomPresident Droupadi Murmu loves this protein and fiber-rich vegetarian Odia dish; detailed recipe insideWhat happens when you soak dal for 30 minutes before cookingVitamin D supplements not working? 3 common mistakes people make, heart surgeon revealsTeenagers who feel close to their parents make safer choices: 7 activities parents can do with their teens to build deeper connection123Hot PicksNeeraj ChopraScotland Vs MoroccoBrazil Vs HaltiJIO IPOUddhav ThackerayAbhishek BanerjeeEknath ShindeSamanta BullockLondon Train TragedyTop TrendingBihar gang-rapeUS-Iran Peace DealStock Market LiveFIFA World Cup 2026What is Legacy BadgeBEST bus strikeAIIMS BSc Nursing Admit CardMHT CET PCM 2nd attempt resultsGold rate todayIndia-UK FTA Can’t stop checking your weight? 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