YSRCP slams Andhra govt over 'corrupt' Axis Energy power deal

YSRCP leaders accused the Andhra Pradesh government of a major scam in a power agreement with Axis Energy, claiming it imposes an unfair financial burden at Rs 4.60 per unit. They criticized the deal as profiteering, contrasting it with a previous agreement at Rs 2.49 per unit. Energy Minister G Ravikumar defended the deal, citing job creation and long-term energy benefits.

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 tomorrow 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.

Andaman & Nicobar Islands fully prepared for Civil Defence mock drills: Official

Port Blair is set for Civil Defence mock drills on Wednesday, organized in response to emerging threats amid tensions with Pakistan. The initiative aims to educate locals on emergency responses. Senior officials, including those from the National Disaster Response Force, have planned the exercise, which will involve various emergency services. An awareness campaign will notify the public about the drills.

Kerala: Thrissur Pooram returns in full glory, draws thousands to Vadakkunnathan Temple grounds

Thrissur Pooram, Kerala's iconic temple festival, celebrated on Tuesday at Vadakkunnathan Temple, attracted thousands with its vibrant procession of 30 caparisoned elephants and traditional percussion music. The festival, organized by Paramekkavu and Thiruvambady temples, showcased colorful kudamattam and dazzling deities. Despite past controversies, the event concluded with a grand fireworks display, reaffirming its status as South India's premier festival.

At UNSC meet, Pakistan pitch on Pahalgam attack doesn’t cut ice. What it means

Pakistan's attempt to internationalize the Pahalgam terror attack at the UN Security Council failed, with member states questioning LeT's involvement and rejecting claims of a "false flag" operation, while supporting India's counter-terrorism stance.

China imposes anti-dumping duties on imported cypermethrin pesticide from India

China has announced anti-dumping measures on imported cypermethrin from India, effective Wednesday. The decision follows an investigation by the Ministry of Commerce, which found that Indian imports were being dumped and harming China's domestic industry. Cypermethrin is primarily used in agriculture for pest control in crops like cotton and vegetables.