QUICKREADS

Jharkhand CM Soren calls for meeting of ruling allies on Saturday
Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren has called a meeting of legislators on Saturday, which will be attended by ruling alliance partners Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, the Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal, people aware of the development said on Thursday. Top functionaries in both JMM, which is led by Soren, and the Congress confirmed the development. “We have been directed to attend the CM's meeting,” said a senior Congress legislator, not willing to be named.

Over 6.5 lakh calls received on SC/ST atrocities helpline since 2021; highest from UP
Since its launch in December 2021, the National Helpline Against Atrocities has received over 650,000 calls regarding atrocities against SCs and STs, predominantly from Uttar Pradesh. Of the 7,135 grievances registered, 4,314 have been resolved. The helpline, available in multiple languages, aims to empower marginalized communities and ensure the enforcement of the SC/ST Act.

S Jaishankar's response to Marco Rubio as he urges India, Pakistan to de-escalate
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, affirming India's measured approach amid rising India-Pakistan tensions. Rubio proposed US support for de-escalation and productive discussions between the two nations.
The 5 terrorists India killed in Pakistan under 'Operation Sindoor' air strikes
India launched 'Operation Sindoor', conducting precision air strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, killing 5 terrorists from Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed in retaliation for the April 22 Kashmir terror attack.

Meet Vadodara's ‘Wonder Woman’ Shyna Sunsara, twin sister of Colonel Sofiya Qureshi
Twin sisters Shyna Sunsara and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, from a military family in Vadodara, embody national pride. Shyna, a multi-talented achiever and environmentalist, celebrated her sister's prominent role in Operation Sindoor's briefing.

Multiple drone attacks in Barmer and Jaisalmer, missile-like debris found
In response to Indian airstrikes, Pakistan launched multiple drone attacks in Barmer and Jaisalmer. Indian Air Defense successfully intercepted all drones. Missile-like debris found in two locations, prompting investigations. Local authorities issued alerts and enforced blackouts to ensure safety.

India reacted responsibly to Pakistani provocation: Foreign secretary
India conducted military strikes in response to Pakistan's provocative actions targeting civilians in Kashmir and Punjab. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri denied Pakistani claims of destroying Indian installations and emphasized India's responsible and measured retaliation.

India in a 'war-like' situation, govt has steely resolve, says ex-diplomat Bambawale
Former High Commissioner to Pakistan, Gautam Bambawale, described the current India-Pakistan tensions as a "war-like situation" during a panel discussion on 'Operation Sindoor' in Pune. He emphasized the Indian government's determination, the capabilities of the Armed Forces, and the importance of public resolve in facing potential challenges from terrorism. The discussion featured military experts and was moderated by Major General Nitin Gadkari.

Teachers should teach student with spirit of Nation First: UP CM Adityanath
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized the importance of instilling a "Nation First" spirit in students during the 'Shikshak Dhanyavaad' ceremony in Lucknow. He stressed that education should focus on moral values and national pride, not just academic success, to build a prosperous and self-reliant India. Adityanath also praised cultural presentations that connect students to their heritage.

'Operation Sindoor': Indian Army destroys terror launchpads in response to Pakistan drone strikes, posts video
Indian Army launched Operation Sindoor, destroying terror launchpads near the Line of Control in response to Pakistan's drone strikes on Jammu-Kashmir and Punjab cities, neutralizing nine terror camps and dealing a significant blow to terrorist infrastructure.

Monsoon to arrive in Kerala around May 27, four days early: IMD
IMD predicts monsoon will arrive in Kerala on May 27, four days early. Forecast suggests 'above normal' rains at 105% of long-period average, crucial for agriculture and economy, with satellite images showing promising cloud cover.

Shashi Tharoor's 'bigoted' swipe at Pakistan: ‘India is happy to leave Pak alone'
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor criticizes Pakistan, stating India wants nothing from them and will defend itself if provoked. He accuses Pakistan of deploying terrorists for 30 years to capture Kashmir, emphasizing India's focus on growth and potential for retaliation.

SC to hear plea challenging blocking of YouTube channel '4PM' on May 13
The Supreme Court will hear a plea on May 13 to quash the blocking of the YouTube channel '4PM', which claims the action violates journalistic independence and public information rights. The channel's editor argues the blocking was based on vague "national security" grounds without due process, violating constitutional safeguards. The plea also challenges confidentiality rules regarding such actions.

Pakistani drones target Rajasthan, Gujarat; gatherings, movement restricted
Pakistani drones targeted multiple locations in Rajasthan and Gujarat, prompting authorities to issue alerts, restrict movement, and enforce blackouts. Residents were advised to stay indoors, avoid gatherings, and follow security protocols amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.

Rajasthan: Barmer man held for sharing army movement video amid India-Pak tensions
A 26-year-old man was arrested in Barmer, Rajasthan, for sharing a sensitive video of army movements on social media amid India-Pakistan tensions. Border districts were locked down, with markets closed and residents instructed to stay indoors.

Op Sindoor: Special train from Jammu arrives in Delhi with students, tourists, army families
A special train evacuated hundreds of students, tourists, and army families from Jammu and Kashmir to Delhi amid missile strikes and drone attacks, with passengers expressing fear and relief while escaping the conflict-ridden region.