QUICKREADS

Uttarakhand state textbooks found in Sambhal school, probe ordered
Authorities in Uttar Pradesh are investigating St. Mary's Senior Secondary School in Sambhal for serious irregularities, including using Uttarakhand textbooks and students' lack of local knowledge. Complaints of arbitrary fee hikes and mandatory book purchases have also emerged. The school is required to submit building approval documents, and a comprehensive report will be prepared for further action.

India clinches free trade deal with UK
India and the UK finalized a free trade agreement boosting exports of textiles, leather, and engineering goods. The deal cuts levies on whisky, automobiles, and medical devices, aiming to catalyze trade, investment, and job creation between the two nations.
After India's Operation Sindoor strikes on Pakistan, several airports closed - Here's a list
After India's Operation Sindoor strikes on Pakistan, multiple airlines canceled flights to key northern airports including Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Amritsar, and Chandigarh. Flight disruptions expected until noon on May 7, with travelers advised to check updates.

Indian Army posted ‘Ready to Strike’ video minutes before Operation Sindoor attack on Pakistan
Indian Army posted a 'Ready to Strike' video before launching Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror sites in Pakistan. The strike was in retaliation to the Pahalgam attack, with India emphasizing a focused, measured response.

Operation Sindoor: India's full statement after strikes on Pakistan terror sites
India launched Operation Sindoor, striking nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 people. The operation targeted terrorist infrastructure without hitting military facilities, demonstrating measured and non-escalatory action.

States, UTs hunker down for civic defence exercise
India prepares for massive civil defence drills across 244 districts, testing air raid sirens, evacuation procedures, and emergency response. The exercise, largest since 1971, follows recent terror attacks and focuses on preparedness in key locations nationwide.

Mock drills: Here's the complete list of locations in Delhi
Delhi will conduct a nationwide civil defence mock drill across 55 locations, involving 60 air raid sirens, emergency simulations, and coordinated responses by volunteers, police, and rescue teams to test wartime readiness and civilian resilience.

Majority of Old Delhi traders oppose relocation: CTI
A survey by the Chamber of Trade and Industry reveals that 88% of Delhi traders oppose relocating historic markets like Chandni Chowk and Sadar Bazar. Traders advocate for redevelopment and modernization instead, fearing relocation could harm their businesses and the markets' historical significance. The debate intensified after Delhi Chief Minister suggested moving these markets to new locations for better facilities.

Trump's cold welcome for Canada PM Carney ahead of White House meet: ‘We don’t need anything'
President Trump stated that the US does not need anything from Canada, prior to meeting new Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Despite downplaying reliance on Canada, which is a key supplier of essential products, Trump questioned Canada's economic contributions. Carney, elected to confront Trump on tariffs, anticipates "difficult but constructive" discussions amid ongoing trade tensions between the two nations.

Odisha’s Majhi writes to Mamata, says don’t call new temple ‘Jagannath Dham’
Odisha CM Majhi requests West Bengal's Mamata Banerjee to rename Digha's new temple, arguing that "Jagannath Dham" exclusively belongs to Puri's sacred temple and using it elsewhere hurts religious sentiments of millions of devotees.

Seven members of gang involved in major gold heists in 3 states arrested
Delhi Police arrested seven members of a Bihar-based gang linked to gold heists totaling over 75 kg across multiple states. The operation led to the recovery of illegal firearms, gold jewelry, cash, and forged IDs. The gang, led by jailed mastermind Subodh Singh, had executed several armed robberies targeting gold financing companies. Further investigations are ongoing.

Naveen to accept Russian Embassy's honour to father Biju Patnaik
Naveen Patnaik, Leader of Opposition in Odisha and BJD president, will accept an honor from the Russian Embassy for his father, Biju Patnaik, recognizing his role in the Stalingrad Operation during World War II. Patnaik will attend events celebrating the 80th anniversary of Russia's Victory Day on May 7 and 9 in New Delhi.

Water row: Punjab tell HC its police not interfering with BBMB's work
The Punjab government defended its police deployment at the Nangal dam in court, asserting it was for security reasons amid tensions with Haryana. The Bhakra Beas Management Board claimed this action was unconstitutional and obstructed water regulation to Haryana. The court has yet to rule on the matter, which involves ongoing disputes over water allocation between the states.

2-day IAF combat drills in western sector begin today as tensions with Pakistan peak
Indian Air Force launches two-day combat exercise in western sector, involving multiple aircraft types across Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Drills come amid heightened tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, testing IAF's operational readiness.

Kerala to conduct statewide civil defence mock drill on May 7 amid security concerns
On May 7, Kerala will conduct Civil Defence mock drills in 14 districts, following instructions from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs due to rising tensions with Pakistan. The drills, starting at 4 pm, will assess preparedness for various threats. Officials urge public cooperation, emphasizing safety measures, and encouraging families to participate in practice drills.

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.