QUICKREADS

Why MHA ordered nationwide mock drills on May 7. Key measures states must follow
Nationwide mock drills ordered by MHA on May 7 across 244 civil defence districts to assess preparedness against potential threats, involving local authorities, volunteers, students, and military personnel to test emergency response systems and civil defence mechanisms.

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.

Ex-US NSA backs India’s right to hit back at terror after Pahalgam attack: ‘PM Modi exercised a great…’
Former US NSA John Bolton supports India's right to retaliate against terrorists after the Pahalgam attack. He advises diplomatic approaches with Pakistan and China first, suggesting targeted military action if negotiations fail, while emphasizing restraint and precision.

Horse power: The bronze equestrians of Bengaluru
Bengaluru boasts numerous bronze equestrian statues commemorating historical figures like Sir Mark Cubbon, Kempegowda I, Basaveshwara, Rani Chennamma, Chamarajendra Wadiyar X, and Chhatrapati Shivaji, reflecting the city's rich cultural and political heritage.
‘India could carry out a military at…’: Pakistan defence minister's big claim amid tension over Pahalgam attack
Pakistan's defense minister warns of potential Indian military strike along Line of Control following Pahalgam attack. Tensions escalate as Pakistan calls for international probe, while India maintains readiness for decisive action against terrorists.

Report submitted in HC judge cash row
A three-judge panel submitted a confidential report to CJI Sanjiv Khanna regarding cash recovery at a Delhi High Court judge's residence during a fire. The judge, Yashwant Varma, has been transferred to Allahabad High Court pending investigation, with judicial work restrictions in place.

SC seeks new report on Manipur leaked videos
Supreme Court questions forensic report on Manipur violence audio tapes, directs Centre to submit fresh evidence by July 2025. The case involves allegations against former chief minister N Biren Singh regarding ethnic clashes that killed over 230 people.

Karnataka caste survey begins; to be completed in 3 stages
Karnataka launched a state-wide caste survey for SC sub-classification, aiming to implement internal reservation. Led by Justice HN Nagamohan Das, the three-phase survey will collect socio-economic data on 101 castes, with 65,000 teachers as enumerators.

Kerala reports third death due to rabies despite vaccination
A 7-year-old girl died from rabies in Kerala after being bitten by stray dogs, despite receiving full vaccination. This is the third such child fatality in a month, highlighting concerns about stray dog management and vaccine effectiveness.

States told to hold civil defence drills on May 7
The Centre will conduct nationwide civil defence drills on May 7, testing air raid sirens, civil defence protocols, and blackout measures across 244 districts. This comprehensive exercise, the first since 1971, aims to enhance emergency preparedness amid India-Pakistan tensions.

Waqf petitions to be taken up by bench led by next CJI
Supreme Court defers Waqf Act petitions to next CJI Justice Gavai on May 15, as current CJI Sanjiv Khanna faces retirement. Bench cannot pass interim order, will transfer case after reviewing government's affidavit and petitioners' responses.

Four arrested in Tamil Nadu for stealing diamonds worth ₹20 crore: Police
Four men were arrested in Tamil Nadu for stealing ₹20 crore worth of diamonds after assaulting a merchant in a hotel. Police tracked them from Chennai to Thoothukudi, intercepting their vehicle and recovering the stolen gems.

Operation Shiva: Security forces prepare to guard Amarnath Yatra
Security forces launch Operation Shiva to protect the Amarnath Yatra amid heightened India-Pakistan tensions. Thousands of personnel will guard the pilgrimage route from July 3 to August 9, ensuring safe passage for Hindu pilgrims following recent terror attacks.

India to ask World Bank expert to pause Indus dispute meetings
India will ask the World Bank to pause Indus treaty dispute meetings in Vienna, citing suspension of the water-sharing pact with Pakistan following the Kashmir terrorist attack in April. The decision involves halting proceedings on Kishenganga and Ratle dam disputes.

Bhakra dam board files plea in HC against Punjab
BBMB filed a high court plea against Punjab's police deployment at Nangal dam, alleging interference with water distribution. The board seeks to enforce its decision to release 8,500 cusecs of water to Haryana, which Punjab has blocked, claiming security concerns and water overuse.