The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has dismissed rampant rumours regarding the discontinuation of the FASTag system effective May 1, 2025. In an official statement released on Friday, the ministry reiterated that it has no intention of phasing out FASTag or replacing it with a satellite-based tolling system in the immediate future.

Authorities cautioned the public against believing misleading reports and viral messages that suggest FASTag will be eliminated, emphasising that the system remains active and mandatory for toll payments across the nation.

While new technological approaches are under consideration, MoRTH clarified that the ongoing pilot tests featuring Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems at selected toll plazas are meant to enhance, not replace, FASTag functionalities.

Understanding the hybrid tolling model

The proposed hybrid model seeks to combine the existing Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID)-based FASTag with ANPR technology. This innovative approach aims to facilitate barrier-less toll collection; sophisticated high-resolution cameras will capture vehicle number plates and link them with FASTag accounts for a more efficient toll payment process.

The ministry is currently assessing the hybrid system’s potential to:

• Decrease congestion at toll plazas
• Accelerate vehicle flow
• Provide motorists with a smoother, uninterrupted tolling experience

However, MoRTH has confirmed that the hybrid model is still in the pilot phase and no final decision regarding its nationwide implementation has been established.

Although FASTag will not be replaced, the ministry stressed the importance of compliance under the hybrid system. Vehicle owners who neglect toll payment procedures may receive electronic notices, face suspension of their FASTag accounts, or incur penalties as per the VAHAN vehicle registration database.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways strongly urged motorists to disregard false information regarding the discontinuation of FASTag. Official updates on any changes to the tolling system will be communicated through trusted channels. The public is encouraged to stay informed by visiting the official websites at www.nhai.gov.in and morth.nic.in.

Fact Check: Claim: A satellite-based tolling system will replace FASTag starting May 1, 2025. Fact: This claim has been labelled false, as MoRTH has confirmed that FASTag will remain in use beyond the specified date.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla fulfilled a promise he made six years ago by participating in the wedding rituals of the daughter of a martyr from Pulwama, held in Kota, Rajasthan. He took part in the traditional ceremonies typically performed by the bride’s uncle or her mother’s brother.

Birla took on the role of the uncle for Reena’s mother, Madhubala, and performed the Hindu wedding custom known as ‘mayra’. He is the representative of the Kota-Bundi constituency in Parliament and attended the wedding of 25-year-old Reena, the daughter of Hemraj Meena, who died in the Pulwama attack, in the Sangod area of Kota.

Who was Hemraj Meena?

Hemraj Meena served as a head constable in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and was from Vinod Kalan village in Sangod, Rajasthan. He is survived by his wife, Madhubala Meena, and their daughter Reena. Hemraj lost his life in the 2019 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pulwama.

In the wake of Hemraj’s death, Om Birla pledged to support his family. Since then, he has been actively involved in their lives, celebrating festivals and providing assistance.

At the wedding, Birla played a significant role by presenting a ceremonial ‘odhni’ and other gifts to Madhubala, while also honouring the memory of Hemraj Meena and taking part in numerous wedding rituals. State Energy Minister Heeralal Nagar accompanied him at the event.

Birla expressed his emotions about the occasion by sharing photos from the ceremony on X (formerly Twitter). He stated, “My heart is filled with pride and joy that our daughter Reena is now going to start her new life. This moment is not only emotionally significant for the family but also a source of pride, as it reflects the love, values, and aspirations that have come to fruition. The unique sacrifice and unwavering dedication of Martyr Hemraj Meena Ji to our nation continue to inspire us all.”

He concluded by wishing for Reena’s married life to be filled with love, trust, and harmony, praying that she always finds happiness, prosperity, and respect in her new journey.

In a groundbreaking decision, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences revealed on Friday that it will introduce a new Oscar category, Best Stunt Design, to recognize the artistry of stunt work, beginning with the 100th Academy Awards in 2028 for films released in 2027. This historic step celebrates a craft integral to cinema since its inception, marking a victory for stunt professionals after decades of advocacy.

The announcement follows persistent efforts from industry insiders, spearheaded by director and former stuntman David Leitch—known for The Fall Guy, Bullet Train, and Deadpool 2—and veteran stunt coordinator Chris O’Hara. Their compelling presentations to the Academy’s Board of Governors paved the way for this long-overdue recognition. “Since the early days of cinema, stunt design has been a vital part of filmmaking,” Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang said in a joint statement. “We are proud to honor the innovative work of these technical and creative artists.”

The Academy echoed this sentiment on X, stating, “Stunts have always been part of the magic of movies. Now, they’re part of the Oscars. The Academy has created a new annual award for Achievement in Stunt Design—beginning with the 100th Oscars in 2028, honoring films released in 2027.”

The decision drew enthusiastic responses worldwide. Indian filmmaker SS Rajamouli, celebrated for RRR, expressed his excitement on social media: “At last!! After a 100-year wait!!! Ecstatic for the new Oscars stunt design category for films releasing in 2027! Huge thanks to David Leitch, Chris O’Hara, and the stunt community for making this historic recognition possible, and to The Academy, CEO Bill Kramer, and President Janet Yang for honoring the power of stunt work. Thrilled to see #RRRMovie’s action visuals shining in the announcement!”

Leitch reflected on the milestone, saying, “This has been a long journey for so many of us. Chris O’Hara and I have spent years working to bring this moment to life, standing on the shoulders of stunt professionals who’ve fought tirelessly for recognition over the decades.” Similarly, John Wick director Chad Stahelski lauded the Academy’s decision as a nod to the collaborative spirit of stunt teams. “It’s great to see the Academy truly listening to the stunt community,” he told Variety, highlighting the importance of recognizing an entire department rather than a single individual.

Jeff Wolfe, president of the Stuntmen’s Association, hailed it as “a historic moment for our community,” adding, “This validates the passion, innovation, creativity, and hard work behind every fall, fight, and fireball.” The push for recognition gained momentum in recent years, bolstered by films like The Fall Guy and support from actors such as Winston Duke.

Details on the award’s criteria and voting process will be finalized in the 2027 Academy Awards rulebook, with presentation logistics to be determined later. Meanwhile, online reactions have spotlighted legends like Jackie Chan, with fans noting that this category—while a triumph—comes late for icons whose groundbreaking stunts have long defined cinematic excellence. Social media buzz reflects a mix of celebration and bittersweet sentiment, as the Oscars finally catch up to a craft fans have revered for generations.