Is 40°C a new normal for summer in the country?

India's 40 degree Celsius temperature threshold is being breached more frequently and earlier in the year, according to data from the India Meteorological Department. While the area seeing temperatures of 40 degrees or above has not expanded, the number of area-days during which the threshold is breached has increased consistently over the past two decades. The data also shows that the threshold is breached two weeks earlier and lasts three weeks longer than it did in the 1960s, with climate change a suspected factor.

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.

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.

Shankaracharya ‘excommunicates’ Rahul Gandhi from Hinduism for insulting Manusmriti

Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati declared that Rahul Gandhi has been "excommunicated" from Hinduism for insulting the Manusmriti during Lok Sabha proceedings. The religious leader stated that Gandhi received a notice to apologize but did not respond, leading to his formal excommunication. Gandhi had criticized the BJP's adherence to the Manusmriti over the Constitution, prompting the Shankaracharya's remarks.

Odisha needs to explore mineral resources to become future-ready, say experts

Experts emphasize the need for strategic development of Odisha's natural resources to foster inclusive prosperity. A white paper highlights the state's significant mineral reserves and calls for urgent reforms to maximize their potential. Recommendations include regulatory changes, investment in infrastructure, and transitioning to value creation, which could generate millions of jobs and attract substantial investments.

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.