Bill permitting private agencies to mine atomic minerals cleared

India's Parliament has passed a bill that allows the private sector to mine key atomic minerals, including lithium, as well as deep-seated minerals such as gold, silver, copper, and zinc. The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2023 amends the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, and aims to boost domestic production of critical minerals that are currently imported. The bill also introduces exploration licenses for deep-seated and critical minerals and removes certain minerals from the list of atomic minerals, opening their exploration and mining to the private sector.

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.