QUICKREADS

Poor crew management led to death on SpiceJet flight: Report
Poor crew management and decision-making during turbulent conditions led to one death and 20 injuries on a SpiceJet flight. Insufficient cabin preparation and passengers not wearing seat belts contributed to the accident, according to the AAIB investigation report.

India, UK reach free trade deal, PM Modi says ‘historic milestone’
India and UK finalized a free trade deal removing most tariffs on goods and services, marking a significant milestone. Prime Minister Modi called it "historic" and anticipates meeting UK PM Starmer soon, with negotiations resuming after a nine-month pause.

Kerala raises Plus One seats across key districts to ensure admissions for all
The Kerala government will increase Plus One seats by 30% in government schools and 20% in aided schools across seven districts, while three districts will see no increase. This move aims to accommodate more students eligible for higher education, adding 64,040 new seats for the 2025-26 academic year. Applications open on May 14, with classes starting June 18.

Amid heightened tensions with India, Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif visits ISI headquarters
Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif visited ISI headquarters amid rising tensions with India, reviewing national security threats and emphasizing vigilance. The government approved an 18% defense budget increase, reflecting heightened regional concerns after the Pahalgam terror attack.

Four killed, 44 injured as bus plunges into gorge in J&K’s Poonch
A tragic bus accident in Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, resulted in four fatalities, including a soldier, and injured 44 others. The bus skidded into a gorge while en route from Ghani village to Mendhar. Officials, including Lt Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, expressed condolences and mobilized relief efforts, with critical cases being referred for specialized treatment.

No insurgency in Tripura now, visit tourist spots: CM to people
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha announced the cessation of insurgency in the state and encouraged tourism after laying the foundation for Rs 67 crore worth of tourism facilities. With an increase in tourist arrivals, he emphasized the potential of tourism to enhance the socio-economic conditions of rural areas and mentioned government efforts to ensure tourist safety.

Dehradun man stabbed in scuffle with live-in partner months before their wedding, dies
A 27-year-old man died from a stab wound during a scuffle with his live-in partner in Dehradun. The couple, set to marry in October, argued over a personal matter, leading to a fatal knife injury. Police registered a case against the woman.

Pakistan's Bilawal Bhutto, who issued ‘blood in river’ threat, now seeks peace with India
Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, chairman of the Pakistan People's Party, expressed a willingness for peace with India after previously threatening conflict over the Indus Waters Treaty. In a National Assembly address, he urged India to approach negotiations openly. His comments follow rising tensions after a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir that left 26 dead, prompting India to suspend the treaty and downgrade diplomatic ties.
Wartime ‘crash blackouts’ in May 7 mock drills: What can happen?
India will conduct nationwide civil defence drills on May 7, simulating wartime blackouts to test emergency response and infrastructure protection. The exercise aims to reduce visibility during potential air raids, with controlled lighting restrictions across 244 districts.

CM Mamata Banerjee gives job to martyr’s widow, assures full support to family
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced a police home guard job for Shahnaz Sheikh, widow of slain Army Havildar Jhantu Ali Sheikh, who died in Jammu & Kashmir. The state government will also educate his children and provide ?10 lakh in aid. Banerjee expressed pride in Sheikh's sacrifice and assured ongoing support for his family.

Spl court sentences ex-Karnataka minister Janardhan Reddy to 7 yrs jail in illegal mining case
A special CBI court in Hyderabad convicted former Karnataka minister Gali Janardhan Reddy and three others for illegal mining, sentencing them to seven years in prison and imposing fines. The case, stemming from activities between 2007 and 2009, alleged a loss of Rs 884 crore to the exchequer. The court acquitted two other accused, including ex-minister Sabitha Indra Reddy.

Supreme Court directs SCBA to hold polls, reserve secretary post for women
Supreme Court mandates SCBA elections on May 20, reserving secretary post and three executive committee seats for women. Voting includes members eligible by February 28, 2025, with results declared May 21.

Will mock drills be held in your city on May 7? Check list here
The Ministry of Home Affairs will conduct nationwide civil defence mock drills on May 7 across 259 districts, testing emergency preparedness and civilian readiness amid heightened tensions following recent terrorist attacks. Districts are categorized by priority levels.

Proving assistance to Indians on death row in Indonesia: Centre to Delhi HC
The Indian government informed the Delhi High Court that the embassy in Indonesia is providing legal aid to three Indians on death row for drug smuggling. The court is reviewing a petition from their spouses and has scheduled a follow-up hearing for August 4. The embassy has initiated an appeal against the convictions and is coordinating with local authorities.

Draft Dengue Action Plan proposes higher penalties, appointing nodal officers
The draft Dengue Action Plan 2025 for New Delhi proposes increased penalties for mosquito breeding, enhanced surveillance, and improved inter-departmental coordination to combat mosquito-borne diseases. It includes measures like appointing nodal officers in offices, raising awareness in schools, and ensuring water management to prevent stagnation. The plan aims to reduce dengue cases, with 11 reported deaths in 2024.

BJP blames Mamata Banerjee for Murshidabad riots: ‘Met with Imams who were involved…’
BJP criticizes Mamata Banerjee for delayed Murshidabad riots response, alleging she met with Imams involved in violence. Party leaders accuse her of political motivations, "anti-Hindu" stance, and playing appeasement politics during her district visit.