National News

The ministry of home affairs on Monday instructed several states to conduct civil defence mock drills on Wednesday, May 7, to improve readiness for potential hostile attacks amid rising India-Pakistan tensions. These drills include activating air raid sirens, training civilians in civil defence, implementing blackout protocols, camouflaging infrastructure, and updating evacuation plans.

Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami has received a death threat via email, prompting an FIR to be filed in Uttar Pradesh's Amroha district. The sender, identified as Rajput Sindar, allegedly demanded a ransom of Rs one crore. Shami is currently playing in the IPL 2025 for Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi stated that India is capable of negotiating a fair trade deal with the US, acknowledging President Trump's right to adjust tariff structures. Speaking at Brown University, Gandhi stressed India's need to develop a robust manufacturing sector to rival China, emphasizing the importance of a liberalized economy for social progress.

South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada is cleared to play again after completing a substance abuse treatment program. This followed a positive test for a recreational drug during the SA20 competition in January. SAIDS confirmed Rabada tested positive after a match on January 21 and was informed on April 1, leading to a provisional suspension.

According to the IMF's World Economic Outlook April 2025, India is projected to become the fourth largest economy globally in 2025, surpassing Japan with a nominal GDP of $4,187.017 billion. The report indicates continued growth, forecasting India to overtake Germany by 2028 and achieve a $5 trillion economy by 2027.

Following the Pahalgam terror attack and escalating India-Pakistan tensions, major airlines like Lufthansa and Air France are rerouting flights to avoid Pakistani airspace. This comes after India closed its airspace to Pakistani carriers. Pakistan faces lost overflight revenue as airlines opt for alternative routes via Delhi, despite increased fuel costs and flight time.

Berkshire Hathaway's board has officially named Greg Abel as the next CEO, succeeding Warren Buffett by the end of 2026. Abel, currently vice-chairman overseeing non-insurance operations, will navigate the $900 billion conglomerate through global economic challenges. Buffett, 94, will remain chairman to ensure continuity, expressing confidence in Abel's leadership to maintain Berkshire's success.

Chennai Super Kings face a setback. Wicketkeeper Vansh Bedi is out of IPL 2025. Urvil Patel replaces him. Patel is a wicketkeeper-batter from Gujarat. He had strong domestic performances. CSK is already out of playoff contention. The team will focus on future rebuilding. Patel's addition offers a glimpse into the next generation. CSK will play final games with pride.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited riot-affected Murshidabad, accusing the BJP-led Centre of instigating communal tensions. She alleged the BSF's actions escalated the violence and accused the BJP of forcibly relocating victims to prevent them from meeting her. Banerjee also criticized the NHRC's swift response to Murshidabad, questioning their absence in Manipur and Uttar Pradesh, suggesting a pre-planned conspiracy.

Mixed Martial Arts will debut at the 2026 Asian Games. India's athletes need government and sponsor support. Currently, there are no awards or government funding for training. India lacks a recognized federation to govern MMA. Ritu Phogat and Puja Tomar highlight the financial struggles. They emphasize the need for training centers and coaches.

Moody's Ratings warns that ongoing tensions with India pose a greater economic risk to Pakistan than to India. Pakistan's growth and fiscal consolidation could be hampered, straining foreign-exchange reserves. India's economy remains robust, with minimal impact expected.

President Vladimir Putin conveyed his condolences to Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the Pahalgam terror attack, assuring Russia's support in combating terrorism and emphasizing the need for justice. Both leaders affirmed their commitment to strengthening the India-Russia partnership.

As statewide mapping of Scheduled Castes gets underway, CM urges people belonging to SC communities to come forth and provide data

Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for petitioner-NGO Kuki Organisation for Human Trust, referred to the prayer in the petition for a court-monitored investigation by a Special Investigation Team into leaked audio clips

The commission reminded citizens that "the dignity and respect of every woman is valuable" and calls for constructive and respectful expression during national grief

A report by the Registrar General of the Jharkhand High Court said verdict has not been pronounced despite order being reserved on 56 criminal appeals heard by division bench

Uttar Pradesh Congress president Ajay Rai defended his "toy Rafale" jibe, clarifying it was to urge action against terrorism after the Pahalgam attack. Rai criticized the Defence Minister's symbolic gestures during the Rafale acquisition, demanding concrete action. BJP leaders strongly condemned Rai's remarks, accusing him of undermining military morale and aiding Pakistan, sparking a political controversy.