August 29, 2026

The panel, headed by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani, was announced by PM Modi last month. NEW DELHI: The high-powered task force set up by Centre to overhaul India’s public examination system opened a nationwide consultation on Friday, seeking suggestions from students, parents, teachers and other stakeholders on making high-stakes tests more secure, transparent and student-friendly.The panel, headed by Infosys co-founder and technology expert Nandan Nilekani, was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last month amid heightened scrutiny of the examination system following NEET-UG paper leak controversy and youth protests over alleged lapses in the test’s conduct.The announcement had come a day after Centre accepted the demands raised by the youth-led CJP, whose protests over NEET leak included calls for then education minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation and withdrawal of FIRs against protesters. “The High-Powered Task Force (HPTF) on Reforms in Public Examinations wants to hear from students, parents, teachers — every citizen,” a senior official said on Friday.The task force’s mandate “to examine and recommend comprehensive reforms relating to conduct, security, design and governance of public examinations, including examinations conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA), the ministry of personnel said. HPTF, which seeks “to benefit from the experience, knowledge and perspectives of stakeholders”, said the suggestions may dwell on the conduct and security of public exams as well as the examination design and assessment methodology.Stakeholders may give inputs on better governance, accountability and institutional arrangements; as also systems to prevent, detect and redress examination malpractices, the ministry said. The public consultation will remain open till Sept 13, with citizens allowed to send suggestions through WhatsApp, a dedicated website, email and a toll-free number.Officials said the task force is examining reforms across the examination chain — from institutional processes and question-paper security to use of technology and strengthening of examination infrastructure.It will also look at measures to improve accessibility and inclusion, while factoring in student well-being during the examination process.“The objective is to develop a public examination system that is robust, secure, transparent, equitable and future-ready,” the official said. The exercise assumes significance after repeated controversies surrounding national-level entrance and eligibility examinations raised questions over paper security, examination management and the ability of testing agencies to respond quickly to irregularities.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines Apart from Nilekani, the task force includes former Isro chairperson S Somanath, former Intelligence bureau director Tapan Deka, IIT Madras director V Kamakoti, former education secretary Anita Karwal and logistics expert Amrit Lal Meena.The panel is expected to recommend both immediate safeguards and longer-term structural changes in the way public examinations are designed, administered and secured.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.Here are more Raksha Bandhan wishes, Bhadra kaal and Shubh Muhurat from The Times of India.About the AuthorBharti JainBharti Jain is senior editor with The Times of India, New Delhi. She has been writing on security matters since 1996. Having covered the Union home ministry, security agencies, Election Commission and the ‘prime’ political beat, the Congress, for The Economic Times all these years, she moved to TOI in August 2012. Her repertoire of news stories delves into the whole gamut of issues related to terrorism and internal strife, besides probing strategic affairs in India’s neighbourhood.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | WatchUS Green Card Wait, USCIS Checks, UK Visas: How Immigration Rules Impact IndiansIndia Plans Javelin Missile Buy From US, Giving Infantry A Battle-Tested Tank-Killing Edge | Watch’Willing & Keen’: Penguin Random House Denies Dropping Sonia Gandhi’s Memoir Over Editorial ChangesGovt Taps EIL For Quality Checks On 5,000 Km Of Road Projects After Modi’s ‘4th-Party Audit’ Jibe469 Dead In Nepal Floods; 3 Bodies Found In Uttar Pradesh; Kathmandu Declines Foreign Rescue TeamsCongress Alleges ₹36,000 Crore ‘Sugar Scam’, Slams Modi Govt Over Festive Price RisePM Modi’s Central Asia Visit: SCO Summit, Uzbekistan Ties, Putin Meet In Focus123Photostories10 vintage baby girl names that still sound fresh todayJungkook style evolution: From bold eyeliner to quiet luxury, how BTS’ star transformed his fashion5 jewellery styling mistakes to avoid with traditional festive outfitsLock Upp 2 fame Akanksha Chamola’s luxurious Mumbai home: Elegant interiors, cosy living room and beautiful mandirH1N1 Or COVID-19? Symptoms may look the same, but the diagnosis can mean a very different treatment approachMakeup not lasting all day? Here’s why your base melts by noonThe ‘ick’ explained: 7 reasons attraction between partners can suddenly disappear (and how to bring the spark back)5 reasons people pull away even when they have feelings7 signs you like the idea of a romantic relationship more than your partnerCuff too tight, legs crossed or talking? Cardiologist reveals 5 home BP mistakes that can alter readings123Hot PicksNepal floodUPTET Result 2026Sunny LeoneKerala name changeRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderNEET PG 2026 admit cardTop TrendingAnkit Balyan MurderChandigarh MurderSamay RainaUdaipur HotelFlorida Car CrashUS Green Card HolderBengal HospitalTamil Nadu Son MurderElon MuskKanpur Aircraft Crash

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins
The panel, headed by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani, was announced by PM Modi last month. NEW DELHI: The high-powered task force set up by Centre to overhaul India’s public examination system opened a nationwide consultation on Friday, seeking suggestions from students, parents, teachers and other stakeholders on making high-stakes tests more secure, transparent and student-friendly.The panel, headed by Infosys co-founder and technology expert Nandan Nilekani, was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last month amid heightened scrutiny of the examination system following NEET-UG paper leak controversy and youth protests over alleged lapses in the test’s conduct.The announcement had come a day after Centre accepted the demands raised by the youth-led CJP, whose protests over NEET leak included calls for then education minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation and withdrawal of FIRs against protesters. “The High-Powered Task Force (HPTF) on Reforms in Public Examinations wants to hear from students, parents, teachers — every citizen,” a senior official said on Friday.The task force’s mandate “to examine and recommend comprehensive reforms relating to conduct, security, design and governance of public examinations, including examinations conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA), the ministry of personnel said. HPTF, which seeks “to benefit from the experience, knowledge and perspectives of stakeholders”, said the suggestions may dwell on the conduct and security of public exams as well as the examination design and assessment methodology.Stakeholders may give inputs on better governance, accountability and institutional arrangements; as also systems to prevent, detect and redress examination malpractices, the ministry said. The public consultation will remain open till Sept 13, with citizens allowed to send suggestions through WhatsApp, a dedicated website, email and a toll-free number.Officials said the task force is examining reforms across the examination chain — from institutional processes and question-paper security to use of technology and strengthening of examination infrastructure.It will also look at measures to improve accessibility and inclusion, while factoring in student well-being during the examination process.“The objective is to develop a public examination system that is robust, secure, transparent, equitable and future-ready,” the official said. The exercise assumes significance after repeated controversies surrounding national-level entrance and eligibility examinations raised questions over paper security, examination management and the ability of testing agencies to respond quickly to irregularities.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines Apart from Nilekani, the task force includes former Isro chairperson S Somanath, former Intelligence bureau director Tapan Deka, IIT Madras director V Kamakoti, former education secretary Anita Karwal and logistics expert Amrit Lal Meena.The panel is expected to recommend both immediate safeguards and longer-term structural changes in the way public examinations are designed, administered and secured.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.Here are more Raksha Bandhan wishes, Bhadra kaal and Shubh Muhurat from The Times of India.About the AuthorBharti JainBharti Jain is senior editor with The Times of India, New Delhi. She has been writing on security matters since 1996. Having covered the Union home ministry, security agencies, Election Commission and the ‘prime’ political beat, the Congress, for The Economic Times all these years, she moved to TOI in August 2012. Her repertoire of news stories delves into the whole gamut of issues related to terrorism and internal strife, besides probing strategic affairs in India’s neighbourhood.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | WatchUS Green Card Wait, USCIS Checks, UK Visas: How Immigration Rules Impact IndiansIndia Plans Javelin Missile Buy From US, Giving Infantry A Battle-Tested Tank-Killing Edge | Watch’Willing & Keen’: Penguin Random House Denies Dropping Sonia Gandhi’s Memoir Over Editorial ChangesGovt Taps EIL For Quality Checks On 5,000 Km Of Road Projects After Modi’s ‘4th-Party Audit’ Jibe469 Dead In Nepal Floods; 3 Bodies Found In Uttar Pradesh; Kathmandu Declines Foreign Rescue TeamsCongress Alleges ₹36,000 Crore ‘Sugar Scam’, Slams Modi Govt Over Festive Price RisePM Modi’s Central Asia Visit: SCO Summit, Uzbekistan Ties, Putin Meet In Focus123Photostories10 vintage baby girl names that still sound fresh todayJungkook style evolution: From bold eyeliner to quiet luxury, how BTS’ star transformed his fashion5 jewellery styling mistakes to avoid with traditional festive outfitsLock Upp 2 fame Akanksha Chamola’s luxurious Mumbai home: Elegant interiors, cosy living room and beautiful mandirH1N1 Or COVID-19? Symptoms may look the same, but the diagnosis can mean a very different treatment approachMakeup not lasting all day? Here’s why your base melts by noonThe ‘ick’ explained: 7 reasons attraction between partners can suddenly disappear (and how to bring the spark back)5 reasons people pull away even when they have feelings7 signs you like the idea of a romantic relationship more than your partnerCuff too tight, legs crossed or talking? Cardiologist reveals 5 home BP mistakes that can alter readings123Hot PicksNepal floodUPTET Result 2026Sunny LeoneKerala name changeRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderNEET PG 2026 admit cardTop TrendingAnkit Balyan MurderChandigarh MurderSamay RainaUdaipur HotelFlorida Car CrashUS Green Card HolderBengal HospitalTamil Nadu Son MurderElon MuskKanpur Aircraft Crash


Nilekani committee seeks public ideas to fix exams
The panel, headed by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani, was announced by PM Modi last month.

NEW DELHI: The high-powered task force set up by Centre to overhaul India’s public examination system opened a nationwide consultation on Friday, seeking suggestions from students, parents, teachers and other stakeholders on making high-stakes tests more secure, transparent and student-friendly.The panel, headed by Infosys co-founder and technology expert Nandan Nilekani, was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last month amid heightened scrutiny of the examination system following NEET-UG paper leak controversy and youth protests over alleged lapses in the test’s conduct.The announcement had come a day after Centre accepted the demands raised by the youth-led CJP, whose protests over NEET leak included calls for then education minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation and withdrawal of FIRs against protesters. “The High-Powered Task Force (HPTF) on Reforms in Public Examinations wants to hear from students, parents, teachers — every citizen,” a senior official said on Friday.The task force’s mandate “to examine and recommend comprehensive reforms relating to conduct, security, design and governance of public examinations, including examinations conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA), the ministry of personnel said. HPTF, which seeks “to benefit from the experience, knowledge and perspectives of stakeholders”, said the suggestions may dwell on the conduct and security of public exams as well as the examination design and assessment methodology.Stakeholders may give inputs on better governance, accountability and institutional arrangements; as also systems to prevent, detect and redress examination malpractices, the ministry said. The public consultation will remain open till Sept 13, with citizens allowed to send suggestions through WhatsApp, a dedicated website, email and a toll-free number.Officials said the task force is examining reforms across the examination chain — from institutional processes and question-paper security to use of technology and strengthening of examination infrastructure.It will also look at measures to improve accessibility and inclusion, while factoring in student well-being during the examination process.“The objective is to develop a public examination system that is robust, secure, transparent, equitable and future-ready,” the official said. The exercise assumes significance after repeated controversies surrounding national-level entrance and eligibility examinations raised questions over paper security, examination management and the ability of testing agencies to respond quickly to irregularities.

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Controversy erupts as Penguin Random House India reportedly pulls out of Sonia Gandhi memoir deal, Congress calls it “murder of democracy.” NEW DELHI: A controversy has erupted over the Indian publication of Sonia Gandhi’s memoir ‘Belonging’, with Penguin Random House India (PRHI) reportedly pulling out of the deal following differences with the former Congress president over certain suggested edits.Calling it a “murder of democracy”, Congress functionary Ashok Gehlot alleged that “pressure was put on Penguin India to remove the portions related to Narendra Modi, RSS and China’s occupation of Indian territory during Modi’s rule”.Penguin, for its part, issued a carefully worded statement saying: “PRHI is not the publisher of ‘Belonging’ in India. Any suggestion that PRHI decided not to publish it because the author declined editorial changes does not accurately reflect the circumstances.” The publishing house, however, defended its “prerogative and responsibility” to fact-check manuscripts and make recommendations to authors. It also said it remained “willing and keen” to publish the book. Earlier this year, PRHI stopped the distribution of cartoonist Joe Sacco’s ‘The Once and Future Riot’, on the Muzaffarnagar riots.Interestingly, the US publisher of the memoir, Alfred A Knopf, is also a division of Penguin Random House. The international launch of ‘Belonging: A Journey in Love’, featuring a photo of a young Sonia on its cover, is scheduled for Nov 10. There is a question mark over who the Indian rights of ‘Belonging’ belong to, but the buzz is that HarperCollins may bag them.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesGehlot also questioned why PRHI wanted changes to the Indian edition if Knopf was ready to publish the book worldwide in its original form. “What is the reason or what pressure is there that what is being published across the world cannot be published in India?” he asked. “Why is this truth being hidden from the people of India? Will the Modi govt alter even the facts by pressuring publishers?” he added.Gehlot said the integrity and dignity with which Sonia had served the country were exemplary. “Suppressing the book of a person of such stature, a senior leader of the nation, and former leader of the opposition, is tantamount to the murder of freedom of expression,” he said.Deputy leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha Gaurav Gogoi said, “No doubt there are those in the BJP govt who have now become afraid of a book being read by the people of India.”Congress, from its official social media handle to frontal organisations such as Seva Dal, lashed out at what it called the BJP’s attempt to sabotage the book of a senior national figure.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.Here are more Raksha Bandhan wishes, Bhadra kaal and Shubh Muhurat from The Times of India.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | WatchUS Green Card Wait, USCIS Checks, UK Visas: How Immigration Rules Impact IndiansIndia Plans Javelin Missile Buy From US, Giving Infantry A Battle-Tested Tank-Killing Edge | Watch’Willing & Keen’: Penguin Random House Denies Dropping Sonia Gandhi’s Memoir Over Editorial ChangesGovt Taps EIL For Quality Checks On 5,000 Km Of Road Projects After Modi’s ‘4th-Party Audit’ Jibe469 Dead In Nepal Floods; 3 Bodies Found In Uttar Pradesh; Kathmandu Declines Foreign Rescue TeamsCongress Alleges ₹36,000 Crore ‘Sugar Scam’, Slams Modi Govt Over Festive Price RisePM Modi’s Central Asia Visit: SCO Summit, Uzbekistan Ties, Putin Meet In Focus123Photostories10 vintage baby girl names that still sound fresh todayJungkook style evolution: From bold eyeliner to quiet luxury, how BTS’ star transformed his fashion5 jewellery styling mistakes to avoid with traditional festive outfitsLock Upp 2 fame Akanksha Chamola’s luxurious Mumbai home: Elegant interiors, cosy living room and beautiful mandirH1N1 Or COVID-19? 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Controversy erupts as Penguin Random House India reportedly pulls out of Sonia Gandhi memoir deal, Congress calls it “murder of democracy.” NEW DELHI: A controversy has erupted over the Indian publication of Sonia Gandhi’s memoir ‘Belonging’, with Penguin Random House India (PRHI) reportedly pulling out of the deal following differences with the former Congress president over certain suggested edits.Calling it a “murder of democracy”, Congress functionary Ashok Gehlot alleged that “pressure was put on Penguin India to remove the portions related to Narendra Modi, RSS and China’s occupation of Indian territory during Modi’s rule”.Penguin, for its part, issued a carefully worded statement saying: “PRHI is not the publisher of ‘Belonging’ in India. Any suggestion that PRHI decided not to publish it because the author declined editorial changes does not accurately reflect the circumstances.” The publishing house, however, defended its “prerogative and responsibility” to fact-check manuscripts and make recommendations to authors. It also said it remained “willing and keen” to publish the book. Earlier this year, PRHI stopped the distribution of cartoonist Joe Sacco’s ‘The Once and Future Riot’, on the Muzaffarnagar riots.Interestingly, the US publisher of the memoir, Alfred A Knopf, is also a division of Penguin Random House. The international launch of ‘Belonging: A Journey in Love’, featuring a photo of a young Sonia on its cover, is scheduled for Nov 10. There is a question mark over who the Indian rights of ‘Belonging’ belong to, but the buzz is that HarperCollins may bag them.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesGehlot also questioned why PRHI wanted changes to the Indian edition if Knopf was ready to publish the book worldwide in its original form. “What is the reason or what pressure is there that what is being published across the world cannot be published in India?” he asked. “Why is this truth being hidden from the people of India? Will the Modi govt alter even the facts by pressuring publishers?” he added.Gehlot said the integrity and dignity with which Sonia had served the country were exemplary. “Suppressing the book of a person of such stature, a senior leader of the nation, and former leader of the opposition, is tantamount to the murder of freedom of expression,” he said.Deputy leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha Gaurav Gogoi said, “No doubt there are those in the BJP govt who have now become afraid of a book being read by the people of India.”Congress, from its official social media handle to frontal organisations such as Seva Dal, lashed out at what it called the BJP’s attempt to sabotage the book of a senior national figure.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.Here are more Raksha Bandhan wishes, Bhadra kaal and Shubh Muhurat from The Times of India.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | WatchUS Green Card Wait, USCIS Checks, UK Visas: How Immigration Rules Impact IndiansIndia Plans Javelin Missile Buy From US, Giving Infantry A Battle-Tested Tank-Killing Edge | Watch’Willing & Keen’: Penguin Random House Denies Dropping Sonia Gandhi’s Memoir Over Editorial ChangesGovt Taps EIL For Quality Checks On 5,000 Km Of Road Projects After Modi’s ‘4th-Party Audit’ Jibe469 Dead In Nepal Floods; 3 Bodies Found In Uttar Pradesh; Kathmandu Declines Foreign Rescue TeamsCongress Alleges ₹36,000 Crore ‘Sugar Scam’, Slams Modi Govt Over Festive Price RisePM Modi’s Central Asia Visit: SCO Summit, Uzbekistan Ties, Putin Meet In Focus123Photostories10 vintage baby girl names that still sound fresh todayJungkook style evolution: From bold eyeliner to quiet luxury, how BTS’ star transformed his fashion5 jewellery styling mistakes to avoid with traditional festive outfitsLock Upp 2 fame Akanksha Chamola’s luxurious Mumbai home: Elegant interiors, cosy living room and beautiful mandirH1N1 Or COVID-19? Symptoms may look the same, but the diagnosis can mean a very different treatment approachMakeup not lasting all day? Here’s why your base melts by noonThe ‘ick’ explained: 7 reasons attraction between partners can suddenly disappear (and how to bring the spark back)5 reasons people pull away even when they have feelings7 signs you like the idea of a romantic relationship more than your partnerCuff too tight, legs crossed or talking? Cardiologist reveals 5 home BP mistakes that can alter readings123Hot PicksNepal floodUPTET Result 2026Sunny LeoneKerala name changeRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderNEET PG 2026 admit cardTop TrendingAnkit Balyan MurderChandigarh MurderSamay RainaUdaipur HotelFlorida Car CrashUS Green Card HolderBengal HospitalTamil Nadu Son MurderElon MuskKanpur Aircraft Crash

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CJI Surya Kant said clean energy push unfair on developing nations NEW DELHI: CJI Surya Kant Friday told Commonwealth countries it was unfair that industrialised nations, who took two centuries to adopt clean energy, were asking nations in the process of industrialisation to move towards renewable energy within decades.Speaking at the Commonwealth Secretariat in London, CJI Kant said, “Countries that are finally industrialising are being asked to move rapidly towards renewable power, and are often made to bear the brunt of criticism when they cannot move fast enough.”“The challenge, therefore, is to reconcile the urgency of the clean energy transition with the principles of fairness and shared responsibility that must underpin it,” the CJI said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.Here are more Raksha Bandhan wishes, Bhadra kaal and Shubh Muhurat from The Times of India.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | WatchUS Green Card Wait, USCIS Checks, UK Visas: How Immigration Rules Impact IndiansIndia Plans Javelin Missile Buy From US, Giving Infantry A Battle-Tested Tank-Killing Edge | Watch’Willing & Keen’: Penguin Random House Denies Dropping Sonia Gandhi’s Memoir Over Editorial ChangesGovt Taps EIL For Quality Checks On 5,000 Km Of Road Projects After Modi’s ‘4th-Party Audit’ Jibe469 Dead In Nepal Floods; 3 Bodies Found In Uttar Pradesh; Kathmandu Declines Foreign Rescue TeamsCongress Alleges ₹36,000 Crore ‘Sugar Scam’, Slams Modi Govt Over Festive Price RisePM Modi’s Central Asia Visit: SCO Summit, Uzbekistan Ties, Putin Meet In Focus123Photostories10 vintage baby girl names that still sound fresh todayJungkook style evolution: From bold eyeliner to quiet luxury, how BTS’ star transformed his fashion5 jewellery styling mistakes to avoid with traditional festive outfitsLock Upp 2 fame Akanksha Chamola’s luxurious Mumbai home: Elegant interiors, cosy living room and beautiful mandirH1N1 Or COVID-19? Symptoms may look the same, but the diagnosis can mean a very different treatment approachMakeup not lasting all day? Here’s why your base melts by noonThe ‘ick’ explained: 7 reasons attraction between partners can suddenly disappear (and how to bring the spark back)5 reasons people pull away even when they have feelings7 signs you like the idea of a romantic relationship more than your partnerCuff too tight, legs crossed or talking? Cardiologist reveals 5 home BP mistakes that can alter readings123Hot PicksNepal floodUPTET Result 2026Sunny LeoneKerala name changeRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderNEET PG 2026 admit cardTop TrendingAnkit Balyan MurderChandigarh MurderSamay RainaUdaipur HotelFlorida Car CrashUS Green Card HolderBengal HospitalTamil Nadu Son MurderElon MuskKanpur Aircraft Crash

CJI Surya Kant said clean energy push unfair on developing nations NEW DELHI: CJI Surya Kant Friday told Commonwealth countries it was unfair that industrialised nations, who took two centuries to adopt clean energy, were asking nations in the process of industrialisation to move towards renewable energy within decades.Speaking at the Commonwealth Secretariat in London, CJI Kant said, “Countries that are finally industrialising are being asked to move rapidly towards renewable power, and are often made to bear the brunt of criticism when they cannot move fast enough.”“The challenge, therefore, is to reconcile the urgency of the clean energy transition with the principles of fairness and shared responsibility that must underpin it,” the CJI said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.Here are more Raksha Bandhan wishes, Bhadra kaal and Shubh Muhurat from The Times of India.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | WatchUS Green Card Wait, USCIS Checks, UK Visas: How Immigration Rules Impact IndiansIndia Plans Javelin Missile Buy From US, Giving Infantry A Battle-Tested Tank-Killing Edge | Watch’Willing & Keen’: Penguin Random House Denies Dropping Sonia Gandhi’s Memoir Over Editorial ChangesGovt Taps EIL For Quality Checks On 5,000 Km Of Road Projects After Modi’s ‘4th-Party Audit’ Jibe469 Dead In Nepal Floods; 3 Bodies Found In Uttar Pradesh; Kathmandu Declines Foreign Rescue TeamsCongress Alleges ₹36,000 Crore ‘Sugar Scam’, Slams Modi Govt Over Festive Price RisePM Modi’s Central Asia Visit: SCO Summit, Uzbekistan Ties, Putin Meet In Focus123Photostories10 vintage baby girl names that still sound fresh todayJungkook style evolution: From bold eyeliner to quiet luxury, how BTS’ star transformed his fashion5 jewellery styling mistakes to avoid with traditional festive outfitsLock Upp 2 fame Akanksha Chamola’s luxurious Mumbai home: Elegant interiors, cosy living room and beautiful mandirH1N1 Or COVID-19? Symptoms may look the same, but the diagnosis can mean a very different treatment approachMakeup not lasting all day? Here’s why your base melts by noonThe ‘ick’ explained: 7 reasons attraction between partners can suddenly disappear (and how to bring the spark back)5 reasons people pull away even when they have feelings7 signs you like the idea of a romantic relationship more than your partnerCuff too tight, legs crossed or talking? Cardiologist reveals 5 home BP mistakes that can alter readings123Hot PicksNepal floodUPTET Result 2026Sunny LeoneKerala name changeRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderNEET PG 2026 admit cardTop TrendingAnkit Balyan MurderChandigarh MurderSamay RainaUdaipur HotelFlorida Car CrashUS Green Card HolderBengal HospitalTamil Nadu Son MurderElon MuskKanpur Aircraft Crash

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Road transport ministry plans to tighten norms for e-cycles & e-bikes with max speed of 25kmph and motor power below 600 watt. NEW DELHI: The road transport ministry has proposed to tighten technical and safety norms for low-speed electric cycles and e-bikes with a maximum speed of 25 kmph and motor power below 600 watts. Manufacturers of these would have to get vehicles certified by authorised testing agencies before they can qualify for exemption from the Motor Vehicles Act to be treated as “motor vehicle”.At present, electric two-wheelers that have motor power below 250 watts are not treated as “motor vehicles” and hence don’t need registration. This definition is now being expanded to vehicles that have motor power up to 600 watts, which officials said is “realistic”.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesAll these vehicles will be required to use only lithium-ion batteries instead of lead-acid batteries.As per draft amendments to Central Motor Vehicles Rules, such vehicles will have to be fitted with “suitable brakes and retro-reflective devices” for visibility. The draft notification said for pedal-assisted electric bicycles, the motor assistance must progressively reduce and cut off once the vehicle reaches 25 kmph or when the rider stops pedalling.The proposal is significant considering that low-speed electric two-wheelers have witnessed rapid growth as affordable urban mobility options, but many models have operated with limited regulatory oversight.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.Here are more Raksha Bandhan wishes, Bhadra kaal and Shubh Muhurat from The Times of India.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | WatchUS Green Card Wait, USCIS Checks, UK Visas: How Immigration Rules Impact IndiansIndia Plans Javelin Missile Buy From US, Giving Infantry A Battle-Tested Tank-Killing Edge | Watch’Willing & Keen’: Penguin Random House Denies Dropping Sonia Gandhi’s Memoir Over Editorial ChangesGovt Taps EIL For Quality Checks On 5,000 Km Of Road Projects After Modi’s ‘4th-Party Audit’ Jibe469 Dead In Nepal Floods; 3 Bodies Found In Uttar Pradesh; Kathmandu Declines Foreign Rescue TeamsCongress Alleges ₹36,000 Crore ‘Sugar Scam’, Slams Modi Govt Over Festive Price RisePM Modi’s Central Asia Visit: SCO Summit, Uzbekistan Ties, Putin Meet In Focus123Photostories10 vintage baby girl names that still sound fresh todayJungkook style evolution: From bold eyeliner to quiet luxury, how BTS’ star transformed his fashion5 jewellery styling mistakes to avoid with traditional festive outfitsLock Upp 2 fame Akanksha Chamola’s luxurious Mumbai home: Elegant interiors, cosy living room and beautiful mandirH1N1 Or COVID-19? Symptoms may look the same, but the diagnosis can mean a very different treatment approachMakeup not lasting all day? Here’s why your base melts by noonThe ‘ick’ explained: 7 reasons attraction between partners can suddenly disappear (and how to bring the spark back)5 reasons people pull away even when they have feelings7 signs you like the idea of a romantic relationship more than your partnerCuff too tight, legs crossed or talking? Cardiologist reveals 5 home BP mistakes that can alter readings123Hot PicksNepal floodUPTET Result 2026Sunny LeoneKerala name changeRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderNEET PG 2026 admit cardTop TrendingAnkit Balyan MurderChandigarh MurderSamay RainaUdaipur HotelFlorida Car CrashUS Green Card HolderBengal HospitalTamil Nadu Son MurderElon MuskKanpur Aircraft Crash

Road transport ministry plans to tighten norms for e-cycles & e-bikes with max speed of 25kmph and motor power below 600 watt. NEW DELHI: The road transport ministry has proposed to tighten technical and safety norms for low-speed electric cycles and e-bikes with a maximum speed of 25 kmph and motor power below 600 watts. Manufacturers of these would have to get vehicles certified by authorised testing agencies before they can qualify for exemption from the Motor Vehicles Act to be treated as “motor vehicle”.At present, electric two-wheelers that have motor power below 250 watts are not treated as “motor vehicles” and hence don’t need registration. This definition is now being expanded to vehicles that have motor power up to 600 watts, which officials said is “realistic”.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesAll these vehicles will be required to use only lithium-ion batteries instead of lead-acid batteries.As per draft amendments to Central Motor Vehicles Rules, such vehicles will have to be fitted with “suitable brakes and retro-reflective devices” for visibility. The draft notification said for pedal-assisted electric bicycles, the motor assistance must progressively reduce and cut off once the vehicle reaches 25 kmph or when the rider stops pedalling.The proposal is significant considering that low-speed electric two-wheelers have witnessed rapid growth as affordable urban mobility options, but many models have operated with limited regulatory oversight.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.Here are more Raksha Bandhan wishes, Bhadra kaal and Shubh Muhurat from The Times of India.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | WatchUS Green Card Wait, USCIS Checks, UK Visas: How Immigration Rules Impact IndiansIndia Plans Javelin Missile Buy From US, Giving Infantry A Battle-Tested Tank-Killing Edge | Watch’Willing & Keen’: Penguin Random House Denies Dropping Sonia Gandhi’s Memoir Over Editorial ChangesGovt Taps EIL For Quality Checks On 5,000 Km Of Road Projects After Modi’s ‘4th-Party Audit’ Jibe469 Dead In Nepal Floods; 3 Bodies Found In Uttar Pradesh; Kathmandu Declines Foreign Rescue TeamsCongress Alleges ₹36,000 Crore ‘Sugar Scam’, Slams Modi Govt Over Festive Price RisePM Modi’s Central Asia Visit: SCO Summit, Uzbekistan Ties, Putin Meet In Focus123Photostories10 vintage baby girl names that still sound fresh todayJungkook style evolution: From bold eyeliner to quiet luxury, how BTS’ star transformed his fashion5 jewellery styling mistakes to avoid with traditional festive outfitsLock Upp 2 fame Akanksha Chamola’s luxurious Mumbai home: Elegant interiors, cosy living room and beautiful mandirH1N1 Or COVID-19? Symptoms may look the same, but the diagnosis can mean a very different treatment approachMakeup not lasting all day? Here’s why your base melts by noonThe ‘ick’ explained: 7 reasons attraction between partners can suddenly disappear (and how to bring the spark back)5 reasons people pull away even when they have feelings7 signs you like the idea of a romantic relationship more than your partnerCuff too tight, legs crossed or talking? Cardiologist reveals 5 home BP mistakes that can alter readings123Hot PicksNepal floodUPTET Result 2026Sunny LeoneKerala name changeRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderNEET PG 2026 admit cardTop TrendingAnkit Balyan MurderChandigarh MurderSamay RainaUdaipur HotelFlorida Car CrashUS Green Card HolderBengal HospitalTamil Nadu Son MurderElon MuskKanpur Aircraft Crash

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An aerial view of damaged structures covered in thick mud and debris following the flash floods at Devighat in Nepal’s Nuwakot NEW DELHI: The Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) disaster in Nepal Wednesday has renewed discussion on India’s own strategy and preparedness to mitigate such risk with the presence of approximately 200 high-risk glacial lakes in the Himalayan regions.According to govt’s survey of these glacial lakes, Himalayan ranges are host to as many as 7,500 of them – with 10% in Sikkim and of which 25 are considered very high-risk. The study found 4,700 of these glacial lakes situated in Ganga river basin with a catchment area estimated at over 2.5 lakh sqkm, projecting a colossal scale of devastation a single breach could cause.India suffered one of the worst GLOF disasters in recent times when on Oct 3, 2023, glacial rocks of 14.7 cubic meter collapsed in South Lhonak Lake in Sikkim, close to midnight, “generating a 20-m high displacement wave”, wiping out several hydro power assets and settlements on its way downstream.Krishna Vatsa, member of National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), said the Nepal event illustrates a new dimension of Himalayan disaster risk, though the precise sequence of events is still being scientifically established. “These are cascading hazards: an ice or rock failure can become a debris flow, create a temporary lake and then generate a flash flood. Such events can develop extremely rapidly and may provide very little warning time downstream.””India’s National GLOF Risk Mitigation Programme has marked 195 at-risk glacial lakes and follows five key priorities (assessment, monitoring, early warning, mitigation, community awareness). It needs to be speeded up and scaled up immediately as a priority for national security,” said Syed Safi Ahsan Rizvi, an ex-NDMA member.As a response to the Sikkim disaster, Centre had set up a high-level coordination committee on GLOF disaster risk reduction. The initiative, spearheaded by PM’s principal secretary PK Mishra, was tasked to host multi-agency deliberations and surveys of such lakes and identify the high-risk ones. Govt also allocated Rs 150 crore for the National GLOF Risk Mitigation Programme for four Himalayan states having high-risk glacial lakes.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe first meeting of the coordination committee on DRR was held in Nov 2024, when PM’s principal secretary expressing his satisfaction on the group’s “tri-focal lens: assessment, monitoring, and mitigation”. The committee hosted regular meetings and received feedback, which were then formed as part of joint strategy between states and Centre. However, not much is known on follow up actions.Earlier, govt had claimed that multi-agency expeditions were conducted to assess all “A-category” lakes. The teams comprised scientists and officials from NDMA, Central Water Commission, Geological Survey of India, Centre for Development of Advance Computing, ITBP and the Army.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.Here are more Raksha Bandhan wishes, Bhadra kaal and Shubh Muhurat from The Times of India.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | WatchUS Green Card Wait, USCIS Checks, UK Visas: How Immigration Rules Impact IndiansIndia Plans Javelin Missile Buy From US, Giving Infantry A Battle-Tested Tank-Killing Edge | Watch’Willing & Keen’: Penguin Random House Denies Dropping Sonia Gandhi’s Memoir Over Editorial ChangesGovt Taps EIL For Quality Checks On 5,000 Km Of Road Projects After Modi’s ‘4th-Party Audit’ Jibe469 Dead In Nepal Floods; 3 Bodies Found In Uttar Pradesh; Kathmandu Declines Foreign Rescue TeamsCongress Alleges ₹36,000 Crore ‘Sugar Scam’, Slams Modi Govt Over Festive Price RisePM Modi’s Central Asia Visit: SCO Summit, Uzbekistan Ties, Putin Meet In Focus123Photostories10 vintage baby girl names that still sound fresh todayJungkook style evolution: From bold eyeliner to quiet luxury, how BTS’ star transformed his fashion5 jewellery styling mistakes to avoid with traditional festive outfitsLock Upp 2 fame Akanksha Chamola’s luxurious Mumbai home: Elegant interiors, cosy living room and beautiful mandirH1N1 Or COVID-19? Symptoms may look the same, but the diagnosis can mean a very different treatment approachMakeup not lasting all day? Here’s why your base melts by noonThe ‘ick’ explained: 7 reasons attraction between partners can suddenly disappear (and how to bring the spark back)5 reasons people pull away even when they have feelings7 signs you like the idea of a romantic relationship more than your partnerCuff too tight, legs crossed or talking? Cardiologist reveals 5 home BP mistakes that can alter readings123Hot PicksNepal floodUPTET Result 2026Sunny LeoneKerala name changeRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderNEET PG 2026 admit cardTop TrendingAnkit Balyan MurderChandigarh MurderSamay RainaUdaipur HotelFlorida Car CrashUS Green Card HolderBengal HospitalTamil Nadu Son MurderElon MuskKanpur Aircraft Crash

An aerial view of damaged structures covered in thick mud and debris following the flash floods at Devighat in Nepal’s Nuwakot NEW DELHI: The Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) disaster in Nepal Wednesday has renewed discussion on India’s own strategy and preparedness to mitigate such risk with the presence of approximately 200 high-risk glacial lakes in the Himalayan regions.According to govt’s survey of these glacial lakes, Himalayan ranges are host to as many as 7,500 of them – with 10% in Sikkim and of which 25 are considered very high-risk. The study found 4,700 of these glacial lakes situated in Ganga river basin with a catchment area estimated at over 2.5 lakh sqkm, projecting a colossal scale of devastation a single breach could cause.India suffered one of the worst GLOF disasters in recent times when on Oct 3, 2023, glacial rocks of 14.7 cubic meter collapsed in South Lhonak Lake in Sikkim, close to midnight, “generating a 20-m high displacement wave”, wiping out several hydro power assets and settlements on its way downstream.Krishna Vatsa, member of National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), said the Nepal event illustrates a new dimension of Himalayan disaster risk, though the precise sequence of events is still being scientifically established. “These are cascading hazards: an ice or rock failure can become a debris flow, create a temporary lake and then generate a flash flood. Such events can develop extremely rapidly and may provide very little warning time downstream.””India’s National GLOF Risk Mitigation Programme has marked 195 at-risk glacial lakes and follows five key priorities (assessment, monitoring, early warning, mitigation, community awareness). It needs to be speeded up and scaled up immediately as a priority for national security,” said Syed Safi Ahsan Rizvi, an ex-NDMA member.As a response to the Sikkim disaster, Centre had set up a high-level coordination committee on GLOF disaster risk reduction. The initiative, spearheaded by PM’s principal secretary PK Mishra, was tasked to host multi-agency deliberations and surveys of such lakes and identify the high-risk ones. Govt also allocated Rs 150 crore for the National GLOF Risk Mitigation Programme for four Himalayan states having high-risk glacial lakes.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesThe first meeting of the coordination committee on DRR was held in Nov 2024, when PM’s principal secretary expressing his satisfaction on the group’s “tri-focal lens: assessment, monitoring, and mitigation”. The committee hosted regular meetings and received feedback, which were then formed as part of joint strategy between states and Centre. However, not much is known on follow up actions.Earlier, govt had claimed that multi-agency expeditions were conducted to assess all “A-category” lakes. The teams comprised scientists and officials from NDMA, Central Water Commission, Geological Survey of India, Centre for Development of Advance Computing, ITBP and the Army.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.Here are more Raksha Bandhan wishes, Bhadra kaal and Shubh Muhurat from The Times of India.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosB Nagendra Quits Karnataka Cabinet Amid Valmiki Scam Allegations, Calls Charges Politically DrivenBlast Near Manipur BJP MLA’s House; CM Khemchand Singh Calls Attack ‘Barbaric’Fresh Threat To Kashmiri Pandits: Terror Group ULC Warns Over Reopening Exodus Cases | WatchUS Green Card Wait, USCIS Checks, UK Visas: How Immigration Rules Impact IndiansIndia Plans Javelin Missile Buy From US, Giving Infantry A Battle-Tested Tank-Killing Edge | Watch’Willing & Keen’: Penguin Random House Denies Dropping Sonia Gandhi’s Memoir Over Editorial ChangesGovt Taps EIL For Quality Checks On 5,000 Km Of Road Projects After Modi’s ‘4th-Party Audit’ Jibe469 Dead In Nepal Floods; 3 Bodies Found In Uttar Pradesh; Kathmandu Declines Foreign Rescue TeamsCongress Alleges ₹36,000 Crore ‘Sugar Scam’, Slams Modi Govt Over Festive Price RisePM Modi’s Central Asia Visit: SCO Summit, Uzbekistan Ties, Putin Meet In Focus123Photostories10 vintage baby girl names that still sound fresh todayJungkook style evolution: From bold eyeliner to quiet luxury, how BTS’ star transformed his fashion5 jewellery styling mistakes to avoid with traditional festive outfitsLock Upp 2 fame Akanksha Chamola’s luxurious Mumbai home: Elegant interiors, cosy living room and beautiful mandirH1N1 Or COVID-19? Symptoms may look the same, but the diagnosis can mean a very different treatment approachMakeup not lasting all day? Here’s why your base melts by noonThe ‘ick’ explained: 7 reasons attraction between partners can suddenly disappear (and how to bring the spark back)5 reasons people pull away even when they have feelings7 signs you like the idea of a romantic relationship more than your partnerCuff too tight, legs crossed or talking? Cardiologist reveals 5 home BP mistakes that can alter readings123Hot PicksNepal floodUPTET Result 2026Sunny LeoneKerala name changeRRB NTPC UG CBT 2 examAnkit Baliyan murderSridhar VembuDelhi murderNEET PG 2026 admit cardTop TrendingAnkit Balyan MurderChandigarh MurderSamay RainaUdaipur HotelFlorida Car CrashUS Green Card HolderBengal HospitalTamil Nadu Son MurderElon MuskKanpur Aircraft Crash

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