76,000 words unveiled: Dialect dictionary breaks new ground

The State Education Institute (SIE) in Prayagraj, India, has developed a four-volume dialects dictionary in regional languages such as Bhojpuri, Awadhi, Braj, and Bundelkhandi. The dictionary, which contains 76,000 words, aims to preserve and promote regional dialects in the education system. It will be used by teachers in primary and upper primary schools in Uttar Pradesh to better explain subjects to students in their own local dialects. The dictionary is aligned with the new National Education Policy (NEP)-2020 and will be released by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT).

HC contemplates committee for conservation of Thane flamingo sanctuary

Bombay High Court considers forming a committee to monitor conservation of Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary, focusing on expanding eco-sensitive zones, banning aquaculture, regulating activities, and protecting the habitat's ecological integrity.

Pune police custody of four in Mercedes accident case extended by 2 days

Four men arrested in a fatal Mercedes accident in Pune have their police custody extended by two days. The speeding car killed one youth and injured another on May 3, with all accused allegedly intoxicated during the incident.

Relief for residents as PMRDA to build its own STPs in its jurisdiction

PMRDA plans to build its own sewage treatment plants (STPs) in its jurisdiction, aiming to improve sanitation for residents. A project management consultant will assess population needs and guide STP placement in rapidly growing areas like Hinjewadi and Wagholi.

Over 50,000 housing projects registered with MahaRERA; highest in India

Maharashtra's MahaRERA registered 50,162 housing projects, the highest in India, representing 35% of national housing projects. The milestone reflects expanding real estate development across the state, particularly in regions like Konkan and Pune.

Discom SDO suspended for non-performance

Haryana energy minister Anil Vij recommended suspending Avneet Bhardwaj, SDO at DHBVNL Farrukhnagar, for non-performance. The suspension was immediate, with the officer required to report to Hisar office and receive subsistence allowance.

Two premium housing societies in Pune allegedly found polluting Ramnadi River

Two premium housing societies in Pune are accused of polluting Ramnadi River by releasing untreated sewage. MPCB initiated action, local gram panchayats issued notices, and residents demand accountability for environmental and health hazards.

Pune railway division earns ₹62 crore in revenue from ticket cancellations

The Pune division of Central Railway reported a revenue of ?62.7 crore from ticket cancellations in the financial year 2024-25, a 24% increase from ?50.48 crore in 2023-24. The rise is attributed to last-minute cancellations, with policies criticized for excessive fees. Passengers are urged to reconsider booking practices amid concerns over fairness in ticketing and refund policies.

Kartarpur Corridor shut from India’s side indefinitely, Pak keeps doors open

India has indefinitely closed the Kartarpur Corridor, halting Sikh pilgrimages to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan, following heightened tensions after a recent terror attack. While India has ceased pilgrimages, Pakistan maintains the corridor is open, emphasizing its role as a symbol of peace. This corridor, inaugurated in 2019, allows visa-free access for Indian devotees.

BSF suspends Beating Retreat ceremony indefinitely

The Border Security Force (BSF) has suspended Beating Retreat ceremonies at Punjab's border checkposts with Pakistan due to safety concerns amid rising tensions. The daily flag-lowering will continue, but public access is restricted. This decision follows previous reductions in ceremonial displays after recent security incidents. The BSF aims to ensure the safety and security of visitors.

Pune: Summer rush throws train schedules off track; 48 services affected in April

In Pune, 48 trains faced delays or rescheduling in April due to summer holiday traffic, affecting thousands of travelers. Services like Jhelum Express and Azad Hind Express were notably impacted, with some trains arriving over two hours late. Railway officials cited increased congestion and limited track capacity as reasons for the disruptions, acknowledging the challenges during peak travel seasons.

Friends lost, families destroyed: Pak shelling tears through Poonch

Intense cross-border shelling by the Pakistani army in Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, has resulted in 13 deaths, including four children, and numerous injuries. The violence escalated following Indian airstrikes on terror infrastructures in Pakistan. Most residents have fled the area, leaving the town deserted. Local leaders are demanding compensation for victims' families and support for the injured.

Himachal govt hikes fare of long distance buses, BJP lashes out

Himachal Pradesh's government has increased long-distance bus fares, effective immediately, citing rising operational costs. The fare hikes range from 14% to nearly 59% depending on the service type and region. The BJP criticized the Congress-led administration for burdening commuters, calling the increases unjust and reflective of poor governance. The government defends the decision due to escalating fuel and maintenance costs.

Pak continues artillery fire in 4 J&K sectors

Tensions remain high in villages near the Line of Control as Pakistani forces continue shelling, injuring 15 civilians and damaging property in Kupwara, Baramulla, and Uri. In response, the Indian Army has engaged proportionately. Many locals are evacuating to safer areas, with Baramulla authorities preparing shelters for displaced individuals. Schools in vulnerable areas will close as a precaution.

PCL case: ED attaches assets worth ₹54 crore in Thailand, USA, UAE

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has attached 30 overseas assets worth ?54.32 crore linked to an investment fraud case involving Pan Card Limited (PCL). The assets, located in Thailand, UAE, and the USA, are connected to alleged money laundering and investor fraud affecting over 5.1 million investors. The investigation follows a chargesheet filed against PCL and related companies.

Live events business set to get buzzier

Shoven Shah, CEO of TribeVibe Entertainment, emphasizes that India's live events business is thriving across all age groups, not just GenZ. Post-COVID, attendance and spending on live events have surged, with a 15% industry growth noted. The rise of music tourism and increased interest in regional artists contribute to this trend, highlighting a transformative cultural economy in India.