PM Modi to Launch Phase 2 of Varanasi-Kolkata Expressway
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to lay the foundation stone for the second phase of the Varanasi-Gaya-Ranchi-Kolkata Expressway (NH-319B) in Bihar on Thursday. This significant infrastructure project aims to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic development in eastern India. The expressway is expected to improve transportation links between key cities and regions, fostering trade and growth as part of a broader national infrastructure initiative.
Deep Depression Over Bay of Bengal to Bring Heavy Rains to Odisha, West Bengal
A deep depression over the northwest Bay of Bengal is intensifying and moving northwards, poised to trigger heavy rainfall in Odisha and West Bengal. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for several districts. The system is expected to cross the West Bengal–Bangladesh coast by Thursday afternoon, prompting authorities to prepare for potential impacts from strong winds and significant precipitation in the affected coastal regions.
Rajasthan Government Employee Detained for Alleged Espionage for Pakistan
A Rajasthan government employee, Shakur Khan from Jaisalmer, has been detained on suspicion of espionage for Pakistan. Intelligence agencies reportedly found suspicious Pakistan-linked phone numbers on his device, leading to his apprehension. This incident highlights ongoing counter-espionage efforts by Indian authorities to safeguard national security interests, particularly in border states. The investigation will focus on the nature and extent of any information allegedly shared with foreign entities.
Lawrence Bishnoi Gang Sharpshooter Killed in Uttar Pradesh Police Encounter
Naveen Kumar, an alleged sharpshooter associated with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, was killed in a police encounter in Uttar Pradesh. Kumar was reportedly wanted in multiple serious criminal cases, including murder and charges under the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). This operation marks a significant development in law enforcement efforts to dismantle organized crime networks operating across various states in India.
Pune Porsche Case Doctor Arrested in Separate Kidney Transplant Racket
Dr. Ajay Taware, former medical superintendent of Pune's Sassoon General Hospital and already jailed for alleged blood sample tampering in the Pune Porsche crash case, has been arrested again. This new arrest is in connection with an alleged kidney transplant racket at a Ruby Hall Clinic dating back to 2022. This development adds another layer to the controversies surrounding Dr. Taware and probes into medical malpractices.
Singapore Open: Satwik-Chirag Reach Quarters; Prannoy Exits
India's top men's doubles pair, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, advanced to the quarterfinals of the Singapore Open badminton tournament. However, there was disappointment in men's singles as HS Prannoy was eliminated in the pre-quarterfinals after losing to Frenchman Christo Popov with scores of 16-21, 14-21. The mixed results highlight the ongoing challenges and successes for Indian shuttlers on the international BWF World Tour.
Haryana Minister and Others Briefly Stuck in Chandigarh Lift
Haryana Sports Minister Gaurav Gautam experienced a few anxious moments when he, along with at least eight other people, got stuck in a lift in Chandigarh. A video of the incident, showing the minister and others waiting inside the stalled elevator, subsequently went viral on social media. While a minor inconvenience promptly resolved, the incident provided an unexpected, lighthearted moment involving a public figure.
Interpol Issues Silver Notices on India's Request to Track Global Assets
Interpol has issued its first-ever Silver Notices at India's request to help trace the global assets of two individuals. One notice targets former French Embassy officer Shubham Shokeen, wanted for visa fraud; the second is for Amit Madanlal Lakhanpal. This new notice type, introduced in January, aids member countries in locating and recovering assets linked to criminal activities, marking a significant step in international cooperation for India.
India and US Advance Tech Cooperation in High-Level Washington Meet
Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with U.S. Under Secretary for Commerce Jeffrey Kessler in Washington to bolster bilateral cooperation in critical and emerging technologies. The discussions focused on advancing the strategic partnership between the two nations in key technological areas. This meeting underscores ongoing efforts by India and the US to deepen their ties and collaborate on future technological advancements of mutual interest.
Kamal Haasan's Linguistic Claim on Kannada Sparks Political Row
Actor-politician Kamal Haasan ignited controversy by stating at a Chennai event that the Kannada language "was born out of Tamil." This remark has drawn sharp criticism in Karnataka, with the BJP and pro-Kannada organizations condemning his statement as divisive and historically inaccurate. They have demanded an unconditional apology from Haasan, highlighting the sensitive nature of linguistic identity and its political ramifications in the region.
World Chess Champion Gukesh Suffers Second Straight Loss in Norway
Indian chess prodigy and World Champion D Gukesh suffered his second consecutive defeat at the prestigious Norway Chess tournament, losing to fellow Indian Arjun Erigaisi. This loss marks a challenging phase for the young champion. The result highlights the intense competition at top-tier chess events and boosts Erigaisi's standing, while Gukesh aims to recover in subsequent rounds of this elite competition featuring the world's best players.
Actress Dipika Kakar Diagnosed with Stage 2 Liver Cancer
Television actress Dipika Kakar has revealed she has been diagnosed with Stage 2 liver cancer. She shared that her scheduled tumour surgery was postponed due to a fever. The popular actress, known for her roles in several TV shows including 'Sasural Simar Ka,' has requested fans and well-wishers for prayers during this challenging period. Her health update has prompted an outpouring of support from the entertainment industry and her followers.
IPL 2025: Rishabh Pant, LSG Penalized for Slow Over Rate
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) skipper Rishabh Pant faces a Rs 30 lakh fine for his team's slow over rate during their IPL match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. This is reportedly LSG's second such offence in the season. The rest of LSG's playing XI, including the Impact Player, were also penalized with individual fines of Rs 12 lakh each, underscoring the strict enforcement of IPL's playing conditions for match timeliness.
Defence Ministry Greenlights Advanced Combat Aircraft Project with Industry Partnership
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the execution model for India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, emphasizing collaboration with private industry. This strategic move aims to bolster indigenous defence manufacturing. The first AMCA prototype is anticipated by 2028-29, with production slated for 2032-33 and induction targeted for 2034, marking a significant step towards self-reliance in advanced aerial warfare technology.
PM Modi Holds Grand Roadshow in Gandhinagar Amid Gujarat Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted a large roadshow in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, drawing substantial crowds. This event marked his fourth roadshow during a two-day visit to his home state. The visit is notably his first since "Operation Sindoor," India's military response to the Pahalgam terror attack, underscoring its political and security significance for the region and the nation.