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Rishabh Pant returns to IPL grind, chasing another India comeback | Cricket News


Rishabh Pant (Photo by Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)

Rishabh Pant is in the 10th year of his international cricket career. He has consistently inspired raging debates over these nine years. Eyeballs yearn for him even when he is not part of the Indian team. Last week, when videos of Pant practising in Mumbai and Chennai surfaced, he hogged the feed on social media, barely days after India became the first team to defend the T20 World Cup title. This could be a defining year for Pant, starting with the IPL. He hasn’t been a definite part of India’s white-ball team since winning the T20 World Cup in June 2024. In fact, he played just two T20Is and one ODI after Gautam Gambhir took charge as head coach of the Indian team. He has remained the backup wicketkeeper in the ODI setup. As India start preparing for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, a good IPL could keep him ahead of the likes of Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson.

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Since recovering from the side strain he suffered in the second week of January, he has been travelling across the country to find the best-quality practice sessions.

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What aspect of Rishabh Pant’s game do you believe needs the most improvement for the upcoming IPL?

Pant’s preparations go beyond just fighting to win his place in India’s white-ball XI or justifying the tag of being IPL’s most expensive player. That he spent four intense days with Yuvraj Singh in Mumbai may seem as if he is just following in the footsteps of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson. Unlike Samson, who went to resurrect his technique ahead of the T20 World Cup, Pant approached Yuvraj to clear the cobwebs from his mind. Pant and Yuvraj have shared a strong bond for a number of years. But the bond runs deeper since Pant survived a horrific car accident in December 2022. Both have touched death and come back to take the field for India when few gave them a chance to even lead a normal life. They share a common outlook on life. For Pant, spending time with Yuvraj was more about reassuring himself about his approach than just working on technical aspects of the game. Those who have followed Pant during the time he endlessly warmed the benches with India’s white-ball team will tell you he puts himself through punishing training sessions — both in the nets and off the field. Lucknow Super Giants recently posted a video of 21-year-old batter Mukul Choudhary waiting nearly two hours for Pant to come out of the nets. Soham Desai, India’s former strength and conditioning coach, mentioned how Pant dragged him to the gym whenever he was free, without caring for the workload management programmes during last year’s ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai. Former national selector Devang Gandhi, who was part of the committee that fast-tracked Pant, pointed out that Pant has the knack of bouncing back from difficult situations. “He has always been under intense scrutiny. But he has made stirring comebacks. He helped India win the Test series in Australia in 2020-21 after he was asked to warm the bench for most of the tour. He had a cracking IPL after coming back from his accident before making it to India’s T20 World Cup team in 2024. And then he had the stellar Test series in England last year after having a tough series in Australia and a modest IPL. These are indications that Pant is mentally very strong,” Gandhi told TOI. One can expect Pant to bat at No. 3 for LSG this season after enduring a forgettable season last year batting lower down the order. Pant’s decision to bat in the middle order had baffled experts since Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid had used him at No. 3 in the T20 World Cup. “He has to face more balls in an innings. I hope he cuts out the risks that come with playing reverse sweeps and fancy ramps. He has a solid technique and can play pace and bounce better than most in India. That’s what you will be looking for against top-quality fast bowling in South African conditions. Whatever videos I have seen on social media, it looks like he is trusting his basics. Having a mentor like Yuvraj will obviously help him,” Gandhi reckoned. Pant has had the time off to work on his cricket and is fresh for the IPL, which is a luxury for an India cricketer. The preps are done. It’s up to execution and reclaiming his place in India’s white-ball setup.

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Govt secures extra LNG via spot buying to make fertilisers


Govt secures extra LNG via spot buying to make fertilisers

NEW DELHI: Amid the global rush to secure energy supplies, Indian agencies have seen the cost of natural gas (LNG) nearly double from around $10-12 a unit before the West Asian conflict to $19-20 per metric million Btu (MMBtu) when they made purchases in the spot market this week.The spike comes in the wake of critical suppliers such as the massive Ras Laffan facility in Qatar being targeted by Iran. QatarEnergy had last week shut down supplies from its facility, adding to the pressure after the Strait of Hormuz was shut down by Iran.While govt responded by reprioritising gas availability, it also began spot purchases to ensure availability for critical industries such as fertiliser, where supply was cut to 70% of the average. So far, it has purchased 7.3 metric standard cubic metres per day (MMSCMD), mainly for urea, against an industry demand for 8.6 MMSCMD of additional gas. While some of the units are under maintenance in the lean season, the purchases have been advanced to meet this month’s demand. This will help produce additional 12,500-13,000 tonnes of urea daily till month end, said officials. Against an average production of 25 lakh tonnes, govt estimates production at around 17 lakh tonnes.“Because of war, there’s a spike in spot prices of LNG. Earlier, when spot buying was done for the fertiliser sector, the price was less than that of long-term contracts,” said an official. Industry insiders and officials said more than price, govt is now concerned about upping availability for the kharif season and building stock for the rabi sowing season.



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NZ-W vs SA-W Dream11 Prediction Today Match, Dream11 Team Today, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Playing XI, Pitch Report, Injury Update- South Africa Women Tour of New Zealand 2026, 3rd T20I


The third T20I match at Eden Park, Auckland on 20th March at 7:15 AM IST will feature South Africa Women opposing New Zealand Women.

Get the best NZ-W vs SA-W Dream11 prediction, fantasy cricket tips, probable playing XI, and match insights for the 3rd T20I match of the South Africa Women Tour of New Zealand 2026. Expert analysis and more.

Also Read: Massive blow for CSK as Nathan Ellis ruled out of IPL 2026

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NZ-W vs SA-W Match Preview:

The five-match T20I series between New Zealand and South Africa reaches a pivotal turning point as the teams head to Auckland for the third encounter. This high-stakes clash is scheduled for Friday, March 20, 2026, at 7:15 AM IST at the iconic Eden Park. Following South Africa’s clinical response in Hamilton, the series stands perfectly poised at 1-1, turning this match into a virtual “best-of-three” sprint toward the trophy.

Meanwhile, historical data from the 2nd T20I underscores a massive shift in momentum for the visitors. South Africa secured an 18-run victory on Tuesday, successfully defending a total of 177—a significant improvement from their 80-run collapse in the opener. Notably, this win marked only their fifth-ever T20I victory against the White Ferns. Therefore, while New Zealand still holds a superior all-time record, the Proteas enter Eden Park with the statistical edge in recent form.

New Zealand Women enter this match seeking more consistency from their top order after being bundled out for 159 in the previous game. Although captain Amelia Kerr continues her elite form with a fighting 32 off 18 balls and two wickets, the squad missed the stability typically provided by Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer. Furthermore, the bowling unit struggled to contain the Proteas in the final overs, despite Jess Kerr claiming 2/34. Additionally, the team aims to utilize the unique, short straight boundaries of Eden Park to reignite their aggressive batting approach.

However, South Africa Women arrive in Auckland with immense confidence after posting a formidable 177/5. The squad is currently powered by the opening pair of Tazmin Brits, who struck a vital 53 off 43 balls, and Sune Luus, who provided a rapid 31. Moreover, the emergence of 18-year-old Kayla Reyneke has transformed their lower order, as she smashed an unbeaten 28 off just 9 balls to earn Player of the Match honors. Furthermore, the bowling department looks lethal, led by Ayabonga Khaka, who dismantled the New Zealand middle order with figures of 4/27.

Therefore, both squads will fight with maximum intensity to take a crucial lead in the series. New Zealand aims to leverage their superior knowledge of Eden Park’s dimensions to overwhelm the visitors with power-hitting. Additionally, South Africa intends to utilize their clinical death-bowling and high-flying momentum to secure back-to-back wins and move within one victory of a historic series win.

NZ-W vs SA-W Head-to-Head Record:

Teams

Matches Won

New Zealand Women

14

South Africa Women

6

NZ-W vs SA-W Weather & Pitch Report:

Temperature

23°C

Weather Forecast

Partly Cloudy

Pitch Behaviour

Batting-friendly

Best Suited To

Pace

Average 1st innings score

150

Record of chasing teams:

NZ-W vs SA-W Playing 11s (Predicted):

New Zealand Women Playing 11:

1) Suzie Bates

2) Georgia Plimmer

3) Amelia Kerr ©

4) Sophie Devine

5) Brooke Halliday

6) Maddy Green

7) Izzy Sharp

8) Isabella Gaze (wk)

9) Jess Kerr

10) Rosemary Mair

11) Eden Carson

South Africa Women Playing 11:

1) Laura Wolvaardt ©

2) Tazmin Brits

3) Anneke Bosch

4) Sune Luus

5) Chloe Tryon

6) Nadine de Klerk

7) Annerie Dercksen

8) Kayla Reyneke

9) Sinalo Jafta (wk)

Hot Picks for NZ-W vs SA-W Dream11 Prediction and Fantasy Cricket Tips:

Captaincy Picks:

Sophie Devine – The right-handed batter from New Zealand Women also bowls right-arm medium pace and has picked up 5 wickets while adding 37 runs.

Amelia Kerr – New Zealand Women rely on this right-handed batter who also bowls right-arm leg-break and has hammered 110 runs in the series.

Top Picks:

Tazmin Brits – The right-handed opener from South Africa Women has been in good form, accumulating 82 runs in the series.

Nadine de Klerk – A right-handed batter from South Africa Women who also bowls right-arm medium pace and has contributed 25 runs along with 1 wicket.

Budget Picks:

Rosemary Mair – The right-handed batter from New Zealand Women also bowls right-arm medium-fast and has added 8 runs while maintaining tight bowling spells.

Kayla Reyneke – South Africa Women count on this right-handed batter who has scored 52 runs with an impressive strike rate in the series.

NZ-W vs SA-W South Africa Women Tour of New Zealand 2026 Captain and Vice-captain Choices:

Captain

Amelia Kerr & Sophie Devine

Vice-Captain

Nadine de Klerk & Tazmin Brits

NZ-W vs SA-W Dream11 Prediction Team 1:

  • Keepers – Isabella Gaze
  • Batters – Laura Wolvaardt, Tazmin Brits, Georgia Plimmer
  • All-rounders – Sophie Devine, Sune Luus, Amelia Kerr ©, Nadine de Klerk (vc), Annerie Dercksen
  • Bowlers – Jess Kerr, Nonkululeko Mlaba
NZ-W vs SA-W Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Dream11 Team South Africa Women Tour of New Zealand 2026
NZ-W vs SA-W Dream11 Prediction

NZ-W vs SA-W Dream11 Prediction Team 2:

  • Keepers – Isabella Gaze
  • Batters – Laura Wolvaardt, Tazmin Brits (vc), Georgia Plimmer
  • All-rounders – Sophie Devine ©, Amelia Kerr, Nadine de Klerk, Kayla Reyneke
  • Bowlers – Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Nonkululeko Mlaba
NZ-W vs SA-W Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Dream11 Team South Africa Women Tour of New Zealand 2026
NZ-W vs SA-W Dream11 Prediction

NZ-W vs SA-W Dream11 Prediction Today Match 3rd T20I South Africa Women Tour of New Zealand 2026 Players to Avoid:

Players

Dream11 Credits

Dream11 Points (Last match)

A Bosch

7.0 credits

NA

N Patel

7.5 credits

NA

NZ-W vs SA-W Dream11 Prediction Today Match 3rd T20I South Africa Women Tour of New Zealand 2026 Expert Advice:

SL Captaincy Choice

Amelia Kerr

GL Captaincy Choice

Sophie Devine

Punt Picks

Kayla Reyneke and Rosemary Mair

Dream11 Combination

1-3-5-2

NZ-W vs SA-W Match Winner Prediction:

Considering the team combination, New Zealand Women is expected to win this match.



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Govt classifies energy data as national security matter | India News



NEW DELHI: The govt has asked all entities across the oil and gas value chain to regularly furnish detailed operational information to the ministry’s Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC), with officials classifying the data as a matter of national security. With imports plummeting, the move signals the vulnerability of the sector, turning it into a strategic asset and highlighting the importance of energy in the overall economy.The data to be disclosed includes production, imports, stock levels and consumption patterns, with the order overriding existing confidentiality provisions. “The obligation to furnish information under this order shall apply notwithstanding anything contained in any contract, agreement, commercial arrangement or confidentiality obligation, and no entity shall refuse to furnish information required under this notification on the ground that such information is commercially sensitive or proprietary,” a gazette notification issued by the ministry of petroleum and natural gas on March 18 said.Every entity engaged in the production, processing, refining, storage, transportation, import, export, marketing, distribution or consumption of petroleum products or natural gas will be required to furnish the data to PPAC. “The data was being shared even earlier, but the notification will provide legal strength to the practice,” said Sujata Sharma, joint secretary in the ministry. With a squeeze on energy supplies, the petroleum ministry reiterated govt was trying to tap energy cargoes from geographies outside West Asia to make up for supply losses due to the military conflict. Sharma said 90% of imported LPG was sourced from West Asia and 47% of natural gas from Qatar in the pre-conflict period, which is now unavailable due to force majeure declared by some facilities and disruptions in transit via the Strait of Hormuz.“The impact is definitely there… We are dealing with it by picking up cargo from other sources. About 70% of crude is coming from areas outside the Strait of Hormuz (up from 55%). We are trying to diversify in LPG as well, with some supplies now coming from the US. Qatar is a big supplier of LNG, but we are now sourcing it from the US and Australia,” Sharma said on a day when Iran struck oil and gas facilities in Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi and the UAE.Sharma said there was no shortage of fuel, but LPG supply continued to be monitored, even as no dry-outs had been reported. She added nearly 56 lakh refills were booked on March 18 and about 55 lakh delivered to homes.



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PIO couple arrested for modern slavery on landing at Heathrow from Mumbai


PIO couple arrested for modern slavery on landing at Heathrow from Mumbai

TOI Correspondent from London: Two Indian-origin passengers, a man and a woman, were arrested at Heathrow airport on suspicion of modern-day slavery after their flight landed from Mumbai on Tuesday night.A Metropolitan Police spokesperson told TOI: “Met officers arrested two people at London Heathrow Airport on March 1… Officers arrested a 30-year-old man and a 30-year-old woman on suspicion of modern slavery, fraud by false representation and blackmail. The arrests follow allegations of modern-day slavery offences against one victim. They have both been released on bail while enquiries continue.”The flight, IndiGo 6E1, landed at Heathrow Terminal 3 at 7.50 pm local time.The arrest took place in full view of other passengers as police boarded the aircraft to arrest the man and woman and passengers were not allowed to disembark.Sources told TOI that IndiGo cooperated with law enforcement.The police have not yet confirmed the nationality of the suspects.A 61-year old Indian passenger on the flight, who had come to see her children in the UK, told TOI: “After the flight landed, once we reached the gate, we all got up to take up our hand luggage from the racks, then four police officers, male and female, came onto the aircraft and told us to remain seated and put the luggage back. They moved beyond me to where a couple were sat at the back of the plane in economy. We asked the air hostesses if they knew what was happening and they all looked perplexed. The couple the police arrested were of Indian origin. The woman was very attractive and the man with her was well dressed. They didn’t react when they got arrested and were escorted off the plane without handcuffs. I later saw them being questioned in a room near immigration.”



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Dubai to host Eid ul Fitr 2026 prayers in over 900 mosques, confirms timing in UAE emirate amid Iran vs US-Israel war


Dubai to host Eid ul Fitr 2026 prayers in over 900 mosques, confirms timing in UAE emirate amid Iran vs US-Israel war
Thousands to Gather Across 900 Mosques for Eid ul Fitr 2026 Prayers in Dubai

Dubai is preparing for one of its largest and most coordinated Eid ul Fitr 2026 prayer gatherings in recent years, with authorities announcing that more than 900 mosques across the emirate will host prayers, a ‘Muezzin Al Freej’ that reflects both the spiritual significance of the occasion and the logistical precision required in the current climate but this year’s celebrations come with a notable shift.While the scale remains grand, the format has changed and marks a careful balance between tradition, safety and evolving regional realities.

Dubai’s citywide Eid ul Fitr 2026 prayer network

According to officials, Eid ul Fitr prayers in Dubai will take place at 6:40 am across over 900 mosques, ensuring that the Muslim worshippers across the city have access to nearby prayer spaces. This wide distribution is not just about convenience, it is a deliberate strategy to avoid overcrowding, ensure smoother movement of worshippers and maintain safety and order across the emirate.Authorities have confirmed full readiness, with coordination between religious bodies and emergency response teams to manage what is expected to be a massive turnout.

No open grounds this year in Dubai for Eid ul Fitr 2026 prayer

In a significant departure from tradition, Dubai, along with other Gulf countries, has restricted Eid ul Fitr prayers to mosques only, suspending large open-air gatherings such as Eidgah prayers. This decision is rooted in the broader regional context. Amid the ongoing geopolitical tensions and heightened security concerns due to Iran vs US-Israel war, authorities are prioritising controlled environments over large, open congregations.

​No Open Grounds? Dubai’s Eid ul Fitr 2026 Prayer Format Has Changed​ Amid Iran vs US-Israel War

No Open Grounds? Dubai’s Eid ul Fitr 2026 Prayer Format Has Changed Amid Iran vs US-Israel War

Mosques, with defined capacities and structured entry systems, offer a more manageable setting for large gatherings. While this may alter the familiar visual of sprawling Eid prayer grounds, the essence of the celebration remains intact, just more organised and secure.

Eid ul Fitr 2026 prayer timing and significance in Dubai and other UAE emirates

The announcement comes as the UAE officially confirmed that Eid ul Fitr will be observed on Friday, March 20, 2026, following the completion of Ramadan. Eid prayers, held shortly after sunrise, are the spiritual highlight of the festival, bringing together communities in a shared moment of gratitude and celebration. In Dubai, the uniform timing of 6:40 am ensures synchronisation across the emirate, creating a sense of collective worship on a citywide scale. Adding to the atmosphere, initiatives like coordinated takbeerat (Eid chants) and mosque-wide announcements will create a unified spiritual experience across Dubai. From neighbourhood mosques to major prayer centres, the sound of Eid Takbeerat will resonate simultaneously, turning the entire city into a shared space of devotion. This synchronisation is not just symbolic; it reflects Dubai’s emphasis on community cohesion, even within a structured and regulated environment.

Safety takes centre stage in Dubai during Eid ul Fitr 2026 prayer

Behind the scenes, authorities have placed strong emphasis on safety and preparedness. Across the UAE, guidelines have been issued urging worshippers to arrive early to avoid congestion, follow instructions from mosque officials and maintain orderly movement within prayer spaces. The decision to decentralise prayers across hundreds of mosques is itself a safety measure, reducing the risks associated with large, concentrated gatherings.This comes at a time when the region has witnessed emergency alerts, heightened security protocols and increased vigilance around public gatherings. Against this backdrop, Eid prayers are being carefully managed to ensure they remain peaceful and secure. Dubai’s approach is part of a broader Gulf-wide trend. Countries including the UAE, Kuwait and Qatar have all moved towards mosque-only Eid ul Fitr prayers, signalling a regional shift in how large religious gatherings are organised during times of uncertainty.This marks a notable evolution from previous years, where large outdoor Eidgahs were common, massive crowds gathered in open spaces and celebrations were more decentralised and informal. Now, the focus is on structured, regulated and safety-first celebrations. The announcement has quickly gained traction as hosting prayers across 900+ mosques is a logistical feat, highlighting Dubai’s ability to manage large-scale events.

​Eid ul Fitr 2026 Amid Iran vs US-Israel War Tensions: Dubai Opts for Mosque-Only Prayers​

Eid ul Fitr 2026 Amid Iran vs US-Israel War Tensions: Dubai Opts for Mosque-Only Prayers

The shift from open grounds to mosques reflects a significant change in tradition. The decision comes amid ongoing regional tensions, adding a layer of urgency and relevance. For residents, this directly impacts how they will celebrate one of the most important days of the year. For many residents, this year’s Eid ul Fitr may feel different. The absence of large outdoor gatherings means more localised celebrations, smaller but community-based prayer experiences and a quieter, more structured atmosphere.Yet, the core elements remain unchanged with congregational prayer, community connection and spiritual reflection. In many ways, the shift may even bring the experience closer to home, with neighbourhood mosques becoming the centre of celebration. Dubai’s Eid ul Fitr prayer plan reflects a broader reality. Large-scale public events are increasingly being designed with flexibility and resilience in mind. Whether due to health concerns, security risks or logistical challenges, authorities are adapting traditional practices to fit modern conditions. This is not about limiting celebrations but about reimagining them safely.Dubai’s decision to host Eid Al Fitr prayers across more than 900 mosques is both ambitious and strategic with a massive scale, structured execution and safety-first approach.



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‘Strength behind my Man’s success’: Sakshi pens heartfelt post for MS Dhoni’s father | Cricket News


'Strength behind my Man's success': Sakshi pens heartfelt post for MS Dhoni's father
MS Dhoni with wife Sakshi (PTI Photo)

NEW DELHI: Chennai Super Kings wicket-keeper batter and former India captain MS Dhoni’s wife Sakshi Dhoni recently shared an emotional birthday message for her father-in-law Pan Singh Dhoni, highlighting his role in Dhoni’s journey. She posted a picture and praised his life story, calling it inspiring and crediting him for shaping Dhoni into the person he is today.

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In her message, Sakshi reflected on Pan Singh’s struggles and achievements, showing how much he means to the family. She wrote, “From a young boy who left his village alone with courage… to building a legacy that the whole nation respects – your journey is pure inspiration. The strength behind my Man’s success and because of you he is what he is today. We love you. Happy Birthday.”

Dhoni’s role and ongoing discussions

Meanwhile, discussions around Dhoni’s role in the IPL continue. Former South African cricketer AB de Villiers suggested that Dhoni should bat higher up the order for Chennai Super Kings. He said, “It’s very tricky and not straightforward. Brands are built over years, and CSK have built this empire over many years with this MS Dhoni figure that’s always been there.”He added, “We know he can be impactful with the bat, but if he’s batting that low and not captaining, it feels like he’s almost just making up for a spot for the wrong reasons.“I do feel Ruturaj and Sanju are the perfect players to take over from MS (Dhoni). My only issue is where MS fits in and if he’s not going to have that big impact batting at 4, 5, 6 sometimes, then rather be out of the squad.“Let someone else, that can maybe bowl and bat and have a bigger impact in the game, to come in there and then MS can almost sit on the side as a mentor and still guide the guys.”

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Rly min: Centre gives 3k cr/yr subsidy for Mumbai local trains | Mumbai News


Mumbai: The Centre provides an annual subsidy of Rs 3,000 crore for Mumbai’s suburban railway system, helping keep fares affordable for millions of daily commuters, railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said in Parliament on Tuesday.Replying to questions, he said the subsidy translates into a significant fare concession and underlines govt’s continued financial support to the city’s lifeline, which carries over 70 lakh passengers. To improve commuter safety, 238 new suburban trains with automatic door-closing systems are being manufactured for Mumbai. The move gains significance amid rising concerns over passengers falling from overcrowded trains. Vaishnaw also highlighted ongoing capacity augmentation works in Mumbai, including the addition of platforms, stabling lines, pit lines and coaching terminals to ease congestion and improve operational efficiency. In a major boost to regional connectivity, the Centre is planning a Mumbai-Pune bullet train corridor, which is expected to cut travel time to 48 minutes. The project is part of a broader plan to develop seven high-speed rail corridors across the country. Preparations are underway for the Nashik Kumbh, with a detailed master plan covering key stations, such as Nashik Road and Deolali, along with construction of new road overbridges and underpasses to handle the surge in passenger traffic.



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National Building Standards to replace Code by April; Experts raise concerns over fire safety matters | India News


National Building Standards to replace Code by April; Experts raise concerns over fire safety matters
Under construction building. ( Representational image)

NEW DELHI: The National Building Code (NBC) will be replaced by a National Building Standard (NBS) by April-end, giving states and municipal bodies rights over matters such as development control norms, fire safety and administration. This would be done as land and buildings fall under their jurisdiction.The Cabinet Secretariat has directed the Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS) to complete the task.Experts, who have been involved in the preparation of the latest NBC draft, said matters related to fire safety should be part of the proposed standard and not be tweaked, considering the safety of occupants and people at large. However, they said, changes to some parts of the existing Code are possible, till the NBS is published.People aware of the development said the deregulation cell under Cabinet Secretariat has asked BIS to make “hand books” for some parts of the NBC, including the chapter dealing with fire safety, which states can refer to as best practices.“NBC is voluntary in nature, and hence, we feel that the Code can exist, and states can tweak them. It’s important to retain parts relating to fire safety. We must realise that fire safety engineering is largely missing in our country and if we don’t have a national standard, it’s impact will be visible considering that we lack robust fire safety infrastructure,” said Srinivas Valluri, national president of Fire and Security Association of India (FSAI), who has been a member of the technical committee for NBC of 2016 and 2025.Corroborating this, another member of the technical committee, U S Chhillar said, the national standard can help guide states and municipal bodies which otherwise have less capacity on such matters. “We (technical committee) want to inform the govt about the need for these standards. But govt wants us to simply change the sections as per their instructions,” said Chhillar, director general of the Institution of Fire Engineers.Recently, the Cabinet Secretariat had intervened to withdraw the revised 2025 BIS seismic zoning map standard after the housing and urban affairs ministry flagged increase in cost of Metro Rail projects, technical complexity and lack of stakeholder consultation. There was a directive to BIS to “immediately” withdraw the draft standards, TOI has learnt.People aware about the developments said that the updation of NBC was done after more than two years’ work and just when it was about to be published, the Cabinet Secretariat in June last year wrote to all states, saying that it is not mandatory to follow NBC. This was followed by directives to BIS to make it only a standard document and tweak provisions.



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