Mock drills across India on May 7: Will there be power cuts? Will banks remain closed? FAQs answered

Nationwide civil defence mock drill on May 7 across 50 districts tests emergency preparedness amid India-Pakistan tensions. Involves schools, banks, and institutions, with potential brief blackouts. Participants include volunteers, guards, and students, focusing on air raid and evacuation readiness.

Mock drills to be held at two places in TN, Chief Secy holds review meeting

On May 7, civil defence mock drills will be conducted at the Madras Atomic Power Station and Chennai Port Trust to test emergency preparedness amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan. The drills, directed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, will simulate air raid scenarios and involve various local authorities. Officials assured the public that normal activities will continue and there is no cause for panic.

Andaman & Nicobar Islands fully prepared for Civil Defence mock drills: Official

Port Blair is set for Civil Defence mock drills on Wednesday, organized in response to emerging threats amid tensions with Pakistan. The initiative aims to educate locals on emergency responses. Senior officials, including those from the National Disaster Response Force, have planned the exercise, which will involve various emergency services. An awareness campaign will notify the public about the drills.

Kerala: Thrissur Pooram returns in full glory, draws thousands to Vadakkunnathan Temple grounds

Thrissur Pooram, Kerala's iconic temple festival, celebrated on Tuesday at Vadakkunnathan Temple, attracted thousands with its vibrant procession of 30 caparisoned elephants and traditional percussion music. The festival, organized by Paramekkavu and Thiruvambady temples, showcased colorful kudamattam and dazzling deities. Despite past controversies, the event concluded with a grand fireworks display, reaffirming its status as South India's premier festival.

At UNSC meet, Pakistan pitch on Pahalgam attack doesn’t cut ice. What it means

Pakistan's attempt to internationalize the Pahalgam terror attack at the UN Security Council failed, with member states questioning LeT's involvement and rejecting claims of a "false flag" operation, while supporting India's counter-terrorism stance.

China imposes anti-dumping duties on imported cypermethrin pesticide from India

China has announced anti-dumping measures on imported cypermethrin from India, effective Wednesday. The decision follows an investigation by the Ministry of Commerce, which found that Indian imports were being dumped and harming China's domestic industry. Cypermethrin is primarily used in agriculture for pest control in crops like cotton and vegetables.

Whisky tariffs halved: What's in the 'historic' India-UK free trade deal?

India and UK finalize historic free trade deal, cutting whisky tariffs and boosting bilateral trade by £25.5 billion. The agreement reduces duties on various products, eases professional mobility, and is expected to increase GDP and wages significantly.

Govt launches cashless scheme for road crash victims

The government launched a cashless medical scheme for road accident victims, offering free treatment up to Rs 1.5 lakh within seven days. The National Health Authority will manage the program, aiming to reduce fatalities by providing immediate medical care across India.

Overcame many hurdles to put TN on development path: CM Stalin

Chennai Chief Minister M K Stalin outlined his government's achievements over the past four years, overcoming challenges from the previous AIADMK administration and central government. As he approaches his fifth year in office, he emphasized the focus on development and social welfare, urging media support to highlight Tamil Nadu's progress while welcoming constructive criticism.

Missing Delhi girl rescued from MP, now 2 months pregnant, accused arrested

A 15-year-old girl missing from Delhi since September 2024 was rescued in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, where she had been isolated by her abductor, Anees Khan. The girl is two months pregnant and had no contact with her family. Khan has been arrested following a police investigation that traced him through social media and mobile records.

IAF's high-intensity border drill, including Rafales and Sukhois from May 7-8; NOTAM issued

IAF will conduct a high-intensity two-day aerial exercise along the Western border, featuring Rafales and Sukhois. The drill aims to assess combat readiness amid heightened tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack, with NOTAM issued for the operation.

India’s first crewed spaceflight, Gaganyaan, to lift off in early 2027: ISRO chief

India's first crewed spaceflight Gaganyaan will launch in early 2027, sending two to three astronauts to a 400 km orbit. Preceded by uncrewed missions, the program aims to establish India as a self-reliant space power with future lunar and station ambitions.

Kerala human rights panel directs setting up medical team to probe rabies deaths

The Kerala State Human Rights Commission has ordered a medical investigation into recent rabies deaths, including cases involving vaccinated individuals. The team will assess vaccine effectiveness, adherence to protocols, and storage conditions, and report within a month. The commission also urged the health department to evaluate vaccine quality standards and recommend preventive measures following tragic incidents.

Adopt well-coordinated plan to handle stampede-like situation at stations: Railway Ministry to zones

The Indian Railways has directed all divisions to create action plans to prevent stampede-like situations at stations, following a deadly incident in February 2025. The Ministry emphasized assessing crowd sizes during local events and coordinating with various departments to ensure safety, including deploying extra security and managing ticketing effectively. Close monitoring and proactive measures are crucial for smooth operations.

Chhattisgarh: Woman Maoist killed in anti-Maoist operation in Bijapur

In Chhattisgarh's Bijapur, a woman Maoist was killed during a large-scale anti-Naxal operation near the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border. The ongoing mission involves 24,000 personnel, targeting Maoist strongholds and senior cadres, with multiple encounters and weapons seizures.

14 dead in rain-related incidents in Gujarat; more thunder, dust storms expected

Severe thunderstorms and strong winds in Gujarat resulted in at least 14 fatalities, with incidents including lightning strikes, tree collapses, and electrocutions. The India Meteorological Department warns of continued storms and high winds, affecting 168 out of 253 talukas. Unseasonal rains have led to significant property damage and a drop in daytime temperatures across the state.