QUICKREADS

Over 1 million Kanwariyas arrive in Haridwar in just first two days of Yatra
Uttarakhand on Friday witnessed a massive footfall in the ongoing Kanwar Yatra, with more than 1 million Shiva devotees arriving in the state within just the first two days of the pilgrimage that began on Thursday. Citing the major influx of devotees, the administration has decided to completely prohibit the entry of heavy vehicles from July 20 midnight from 5 am till 11 pm.

Mining policy: Now, individuals in Punjab can apply online for mining licences
Punjab introduces online mining licenses, empowering landowners to directly mine sand and gravel. The new policy aims to increase transparency, boost state revenue, and eliminate intermediaries through technological surveillance and simplified application procedures.

Amid crackdown, farmers’ Shambhu protest plan thwarted
Punjab Police blockaded roads near Shambhu police station to prevent farmer protests, detaining key leaders and setting up checkpoints. Farmers demand compensation for missing items during a previous crackdown, while authorities vow to maintain law and order.

Srinagar: India’s response should be effective, says Owaisi
Owaisi calls for effective Indian response to Pahalgam terror attack, urges government action against terrorism, condemns the "barbaric" incident, and highlights tourism impact while seeking justice and peaceful resolution.

Rahul calls on Pahalgam terror attack victim Lt Vinay Narwal’s family in Karnal
Rahul Gandhi met Lt Vinay Narwal's family in Karnal, offering condolences after the Pahalgam terror attack. He consoled the bereaved family, emphasizing national unity and justice while supporting Himanshi amid online trolling over her peace-seeking statement.

Gurugram shuts ‘illegal’ schools, students’ transfer underway
Gurugram education department is shutting down 'illegal' schools run by NGOs, affecting over 1,000 students. Students are being transferred to recognized government schools, with officials warning of legal action and emphasizing the importance of verified educational institutions.

Don Davies named interim chief, Jagmeet steps down as NDP leader
Jagmeet Singh stepped down as NDP leader after a disastrous election, with the party losing its official status. MP Don Davies was named interim leader, and the party will soon begin a leadership race to select Singh's permanent replacement.

Himachal cabinet okays ₹1,500-aid for female house helps
Himachal Pradesh cabinet approves ₹1,500 aid for female domestic workers, expands Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh Samman Nidhi Yojana. Also approved: homestay policy, organic crop MSP hike, water tariff relief, and various infrastructure and healthcare developments.

GPS tracking leads Mohali police to accused in ₹40-lakh theft
Mohali police arrested Navjot Singh in a ₹40-lakh film equipment theft case using GPS tracking. Two stolen vehicles and production gear recovered. Seven bouncers and three industry associates linked to the crime, with more arrests anticipated.

Amritsar cop caught ‘taking bribe’
Amritsar police officer Ajaib Singh arrested by Punjab Vigilance Bureau for demanding ₹50,000 bribe, caught accepting ₹25,000 first installment. Case registered under Prevention of Corruption Act, further investigation ongoing.

Srinagar: Mock drills conducted at Dal Lake to test emergency preparedness
Srinagar police conducted mock drills at Dal Lake with SDRF, focusing on emergency preparedness like boat capsizing and rescue operations. The exercise follows the Pahalgam terror attack and aims to enhance safety protocols across six Kashmir valley districts.

Prepared for civil defence exercise at multiple levels: Misra
Haryana is fully prepared for the nationwide civil defence mock drill on May 7, with comprehensive preparations across 10 districts. The exercise includes activating sirens, emergency response plans, evacuation drills, and training for civilians and key personnel.

JPNIC row: Ideologically attached to project...willing to take it, says Akhilesh
Akhilesh Yadav expressed readiness to acquire JPNIC if BJP sells it, citing ideological and emotional attachment. He criticized BJP's asset selling, defended SP member Gulshan Yadav, and claimed government exploitation of laborers.

Have urged Centre for 4-laning of Shimla-Rampur NH: Vikramaditya
Himachal Pradesh seeks Centre's approval for four-laning Shimla-Rampur national highway. PWD minister urges strategic road expansion, tunnel construction, and public cooperation for land acquisition, emphasizing importance for border personnel and transportation.

Rape victim alleges police inaction against sarpanch
A woman alleges rape by a sarpanch who threatened her with a viral video. She claims police have failed to arrest the accused despite filing a complaint two weeks ago, raising concerns about the investigation's progress.

Ambala DC orders complete ban on use of drones
Ambala DC bans drone usage and transport without permission due to security concerns, especially near military installations, following tensions with Pakistan. Order applies to all UAVs, with exceptions for authorized government agencies after prior notification.