QUICKREADS

30 pc salary hike for those holding ministers of state rank in Bihar
The Bihar government has approved a 30% salary increase for minister of state and deputy minister posts, raising monthly salaries to ₹65,000. Local, daily, and hospitality allowances have also been increased. Additionally, the cabinet approved the creation of over 26,000 posts in various departments, including new directorates within the health sector and a dedicated education administration cadre.

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti urges PM Modi to pursue dialogue with Pakistan
PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti urged India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue following a devastating attack in Pahalgam that strained relations. She emphasized the human cost of conflict and called for peaceful coexistence, appealing to Prime Minister Modi to prioritize dialogue over military solutions to de-escalate tensions and restore peace.

Quad initiative seeks to bolster civilian disaster response in Indo-Pacific
Quad partners Australia, India, Japan, and the US conducted a "tabletop exercise" in Hawaii from April 28 to May 2 to enhance disaster response capabilities in the Indo-Pacific. The initiative aims to leverage shared logistics for rapid civilian aid during natural disasters, reinforcing the Quad's commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific and practical cooperation in regional challenges.

Rajasthan: 9 killed after gas cylinder explodes at jewellery shop in Bikaner
Gas cylinder explosion at a Bikaner jewellery shop killed 9 people, mostly local and Bengali artisans. 21 shops damaged, several injured. Rescue teams deployed. CM and ex-CM expressed condolences and promised support to victims' families.

BSF pauses retreat ceremonies at Punjab's border check posts with Pakistan
Border Security Force halts daily evening retreat ceremonies at three Punjab border check posts with Pakistan due to escalating tensions, prioritizing public safety after recent terrorist attack and India's retaliatory operation against terror camps.

Modi calls for readiness amid heightened tensions after cross-border strikes
Modi directs ministries to ensure operational readiness and coordination following air strikes on Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. Heightened tensions persist, with increased cross-border firing and potential for escalation between India and Pakistan.

Rajasthan: Entry of private vehicles banned in Ranthambore, Sariska tiger reserves
Rajasthan's Ranthambore and Sariska tiger reserves ban private vehicles to temples, citing tiger safety concerns. Only authorized forest and state transport buses will be permitted, with vehicles to be parked at designated points to protect visitors and wildlife.

Proposal for gangster Abu Salem's premature release under consideration: Maharashtra govt tells HC
The Maharashtra government informed the Bombay High Court that it is considering the premature release of extradited gangster Abu Salem, who has served 19 years in prison. Salem claims he has completed a 25-year term if good behavior is considered. The decision on his release will be made soon, with the matter scheduled for a hearing in June.

India thwarts Pak missile, drone attacks on 15 cities, strikes back at its air defence radars
India targeted Pakistan's air defence radars at multiple locations, neutralizing the Lahore system after Pakistan's overnight cross-border attacks on Indian military targets, matching the intensity of the initial assault.

India used HAROP drones to attack, claims Pakistan. 10 facts about them
Pakistan claims India used Israeli-made HAROP drones to attack multiple locations in Karachi and Lahore. These autonomous loitering munitions can surveil, track, and strike targets with a 23kg payload, operating up to 1,000 km away.

Operation Sindoor: Leaves cancelled, schools shut amid high alert in Punjab, Rajasthan
India heightens border security in Punjab and Rajasthan after precision strikes against terrorist sites in Pakistan. Leaves cancelled, schools shut in border districts. Authorities preparing for potential escalation following recent terror attack and military response.

Any attacks from Pakistan will be met with very, very firm response: Jaishankar
India warns Pakistan of firm retaliation after military strikes targeting terrorist infrastructure in response to the Pahalgam attack. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar emphasizes no intention to escalate but promises decisive action if attacked, amid ongoing regional tensions.

SC relaxes bail condition for Ashish Mishra in Lakhimpur Kheri violence case
Supreme Court modifies bail conditions for Ashish Mishra in Lakhimpur Kheri violence case, allowing weekend family visits while restricting political activities. Court aims to expedite trial and ensure witness examination.

At least 100 terrorists killed in Indian strikes under Op Sindoor: Rajnath Singh
India's defense minister briefed political leaders on Operation Sindoor, emphasizing readiness to retaliate if Pakistan strikes. All parties expressed support for the military action against terror camps, maintaining national unity during the strategic operation.

2 men killed, 2 minors injured in separate celebratory firing incidents in Bihar
Two men were killed and two minors injured in separate celebratory firing incidents in Bihar during a religious ceremony and wedding celebration. Police have lodged FIRs against suspects, investigating the fatal shootings that occurred during festive events.

Malegaon blasts case: Special court likely to pronounce verdict on July 31
A special NIA court will likely pronounce the verdict on July 31 in the 2008 Malegaon blasts case, involving seven accused charged with murder and terrorism. The trial, spanning years, centers on bomb attacks killing six and injuring 101 in a Muslim-majority area.