Haryana school students taken for a ride in the name of bicycle scheme

Students in the Indian state of Haryana are still awaiting the delivery of bicycles promised under a government scheme nearly two years after they were supposed to receive them. The 'Meri cycle meri pasand' initiative, launched in 2019, aimed to provide bicycles to Class 6, 9 and 11 pupils living over 2 km from school. The government would reimburse between INR2,800 ($38) and INR3,300 for the bicycles, with parents covering any extra costs. Almost 1,400 eligible students have applied for the scheme in Rohtak and Hisar, with hundreds still waiting for bikes.

Security beefed up across Pune city amid tensions on India-Pakistan border

Heightened security measures implemented in Pune following India-Pakistan border tensions. Police intensify checks at religious sites, particularly Dagdusheth Ganpati Temple. Anti-riot squads deployed, vehicle checks increased, and public urged to remain calm and follow official advisories.

With wheat, U.P. to also collect 88L quintals of bhoosa

Uttar Pradesh launched a bhoosa (wheat straw) collection campaign to feed 13 lakh stray cattle. Targeting 88 lakh quintals of fodder, the state will procure through donations and purchases at Rs 850 per quintal, ensuring year-round sustenance.

Heavy shelling by Pak: Eerie silence in Uri as locals evacuate to safer areas

Pakistani shelling in Uri, North Kashmir, has triggered mass evacuation. Locals flee to safer areas like Baramulla, with over 80% population displaced. One woman killed, numerous structures damaged. Government supporting relocation and planning to construct bunkers.

International flights unaffected, 9 domestic operations cancelled at Pune airport

Pune airport cancelled nine domestic flights amid national alert, implementing heightened security measures. International operations remain unaffected. Enhanced surveillance, 100% boarding checks, and increased scrutiny of passengers and cargo are in place.

Op Sindoor: Security up at tourist towns in Himachal

In response to escalating tensions after Operation Sindoor, Himachal Pradesh heightened security at tourist destinations. The state government increased vigilance, enforced partial blackouts, closed educational institutions, and is working to evacuate students from Jammu and Kashmir.

HRTC suspends night bus services to some Punjab cities, Jammu

HRTC suspends night bus services to Punjab cities and Jammu due to escalating India-Pakistan tensions, prioritizing passenger safety. Around 25 buses on these routes are halted, including those heading to Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.

Amid India-Pak tensions, Karnataka government postpones mega anniversary event: Report

Karnataka government postpones two-year anniversary event due to India-Pakistan tensions. Law Minister HK Patil cites security concerns, with armed forces on high alert following recent cross-border military exchanges and retaliatory strikes.

Lucknow’s BrahMos complex set for launch, may see early production

India's BrahMos Aerospace complex in Lucknow will launch this Sunday, aiming to produce 100 supersonic missiles annually. The joint Indo-Russian venture is a key project in Uttar Pradesh's Defence Corridor, with potential early production anticipated.

Dead bodies cannot be withheld over unpaid bills: PMC notice to private hospitals

PMC orders private hospitals to release dead bodies immediately after medico-legal procedures, regardless of unpaid bills. The directive follows recent incidents of hospitals holding bodies hostage, emphasizing patient rights and humane treatment.

State launches website for Class 11 admissions

State launches official website for Class 11 admissions in Maharashtra. Online registration begins May 19, with junior colleges and students required to use the official portal https://mahafyjcadmissions.in, amid warnings about fraudulent websites.

Can Lucknow Metro underground infra be a safe holding area in case of emergency?

Lucknow Metro's underground infrastructure can serve as a safe emergency shelter, with stations 50-70 feet deep, built to withstand attacks and earthquakes. Equipped with facilities like washrooms and Wi-Fi, it can accommodate 3,000-3,500 passengers and potentially transport essential supplies during crises.

Blackout in P’kula, Ambala, Panipat after sirens heard on Friday

Haryana districts Panchkula, Ambala, and Panipat imposed nighttime blackouts due to potential security threats. Authorities banned outdoor lighting, firecrackers, and loudspeakers, urging citizens to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary movement while maintaining vigilance.

Haryana districts to get ₹5 lakh each for emergency situations

Haryana government allocates ₹5 lakh to each district for emergency preparedness. Deputy commissioners must use funds strictly for intended purposes, maintain financial discipline, and keep control rooms operational 24/7.

BBMB row: Why May 6 order on water sharing not followed, HC asks Punjab

Punjab High Court criticizes Punjab for blocking water release to Haryana, despite May 6 court order. The court threatens contempt notices to officers for preventing BBMB officials from implementing the water-sharing directive, highlighting escalating inter-state water tensions.

In Lucknow, drain cleaning remains ‘sluggish’ as deadline nears

Private agencies tasked with cleaning 335 drains in Lucknow are moving slowly, despite a May 31 deadline. Residents report clogged, waste-filled drains across multiple city areas, raising concerns about potential monsoon waterlogging.