'Operation Sindoor' Eliminated Five Top Pakistani Terrorists, Say Sources
Government sources revealed Saturday that India's 'Operation Sindoor' military strikes on May 7 successfully eliminated five high-value terrorists affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM). The operation targeted terror infrastructure deep inside Pakistan and PoK in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam attack. Among those killed were key commanders, including two brothers-in-law of JeM chief Masood Azhar, dealing a significant blow to these terror outfits operating against India according to the sources.
CBI Arrests Hyderabad Income Tax Commissioner, Four Others in Rs 70 Lakh Bribery Case
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested Jeevan Lal Lavidiya, Commissioner of Income Tax (Exemption) in Hyderabad, and four others, including a Deputy General Manager of Shapoorji Pallonji Group, in connection with a Rs 70 lakh bribery case. Lavidiya, a 2004-batch IRS officer, allegedly demanded the bribe to settle a tax appeal favourably for the conglomerate. The arrests followed a trap operation where part of the alleged bribe amount was exchanged, officials said.
Monsoon Likely to Reach Kerala Early on May 27, Predicts IMD
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts an early onset of the southwest monsoon over Kerala, likely around May 27. The monsoon is vital for India's agriculture-dependent economy, impacting livelihoods for about 42.3% of the population and contributing 18.2% to the GDP. An early and normal monsoon would be beneficial for the Kharif sowing season and could help moderate food inflation, providing crucial relief amidst current national security concerns and economic pressures.
India Shines at Archery World Cup Stage 2, Secures Four Medals Including Two Golds
Indian archers delivered a strong performance at the Archery World Cup Stage 2 in Shanghai, securing four medals. Madhura Dhamangaonkar clinched her first individual World Cup gold in the women's compound event with a thrilling 139-138 final victory over USA's Carson Krahe. Earlier, the compound men's team comprising Abhishek Verma, Ojas Deotale, and Rishabh Yadav won gold by defeating Mexico 232-228. India also bagged a silver and a bronze medal, showcasing growing prowess.
UAE Women's Cricket Team Retires Entire Line-up for Zero in Bizarre T20 Qualifier
In a highly unusual tactical move, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) women's cricket team retired out all 10 of their batters for zero runs during their ICC Women's T20 World Cup Asia Qualifier match against Qatar. After posting a formidable 204/0, with openers Esha Oza and Khushi Sharma scoring unbeaten centuries, the UAE retired the entire batting order before Qatar began their chase. Qatar was subsequently bowled out for just 41, resulting in a massive 163-run victory for UAE.
Leaders Extend Warm Greetings on Mother's Day
Across India, leaders extended heartfelt greetings on Mother's Day. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, among others, took to social media to express gratitude. They highlighted the pivotal role of mothers as pillars of strength, love, and sacrifice within families and society. The messages celebrated maternal figures and acknowledged their immense contributions, resonating with people celebrating the special occasion nationwide.
IPL 2025 Suspended Indefinitely Amid Escalating India-Pakistan Tensions
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has indefinitely suspended the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 due to escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan. The decision followed the mid-way abandonment of a match in Dharamshala due to air raid alerts. A BCCI official stated it "does not look nice that cricket goes on while the country is at war." Franchises have begun ticket refund processes.
IPL 2025 Suspended Indefinitely Amid India-Pakistan Tensions; Foreign Players Depart
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) suspended the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 indefinitely due to escalating India-Pakistan tensions. The decision came after a match was abandoned mid-way, with officials citing the inappropriateness of continuing cricket during the conflict. Franchises like Royal Challengers Bengaluru confirmed the safe return of players and staff to their home bases, while numerous overseas players and support staff have begun flying out of India following the league's suspension.
BSF Kills Seven Terrorists, Foils Major Infiltration Bid in J&K's Samba Sector
The Border Security Force (BSF) successfully foiled a major infiltration attempt along the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba sector, killing seven heavily armed terrorists. The incident occurred on the intervening night of May 8-9 when a large group of terrorists, reportedly aided by fire cover from Pakistan Rangers, tried to cross into Indian territory. BSF troops detected the attempt through their surveillance grid and neutralized the threat.
Govt Assures Ample Essential Supplies, Banks to Maintain Services Amid Tensions
Amid heightened India-Pakistan tensions, the Indian government moved to reassure the public about the availability of essential goods and services. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman directed banks to ensure uninterrupted customer services. Union Food Minister Pralhad Joshi warned traders against hoarding, stating ample food stocks are available. Similarly, oil companies assured sufficient supplies of petrol, diesel, and LPG, advising against panic buying. These measures aim to maintain stability and prevent shortages.
India Opposes Fresh IMF Loans to Pakistan Citing Terror Financing Concerns
India opposed the International Monetary Fund's proposal for new loans totaling $2.3 billion to Pakistan, abstaining from the crucial vote. New Delhi expressed concerns that the funds could be misused to finance state-sponsored cross-border terrorism, especially amid the recent conflict. Despite India's opposition, Pakistan's Prime Minister's Office later announced that the IMF board had approved an immediate disbursement of approximately $1 billion under the existing Extended Fund Facility arrangement for the country's troubled economy.
26/11 Mumbai Attack Accused Tahawwur Rana Sent to Tihar Jail
Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a key accused in the 2008 Mumbai 26/11 terror attacks, has been sent to Tihar Jail until June 6 by a Delhi court. Rana was produced before a special National Investigation Agency (NIA) judge under heavy security. His extradition from the US was approved last year for his alleged role in the attacks orchestrated by Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, which claimed 166 lives.
Supreme Court Urges Centre Not to Discharge Women SSC Army Officers Denied Permanent Commission
The Supreme Court on Friday urged the Central government not to release Short Service Commission (SSC) women Army officers who are challenging the denial of permanent commission to them. Hearing their plea, the apex court emphasized the importance of their morale, stating, "Let's not bring their morale down." The case pertains to ongoing efforts by women officers to achieve parity with their male counterparts regarding permanent roles within the armed forces.
India Strikes Back: 'Operation Sindoor' Neutralises 100 Terrorists, Lahore Air Defence
Following the Pahalgam terror attack, India launched 'Operation Sindoor', striking nine terror targets in Pakistan and PoK. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh informed political leaders that precision strikes neutralized around 100 terrorists, including JeM's Abdul Rauf Azhar, brother of Masood Azhar. India also countered Pakistani drone and missile attacks on military targets in North/West India, successfully neutralising Pakistan's Air Defence system in Lahore. Pakistan reported four soldiers injured in the Lahore drone attack.
India Thwarts Pakistani Drone & Missile Attacks; PM Modi Reviews "Operation Sindoor"
Amid escalating India-Pakistan tensions, India successfully thwarted Pakistani attempts to target military installations using Turkish drones and missiles. Indian forces responded proportionately, employing advanced air defence systems like S-400, Barak-8, and Akash. Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed "Operation Sindoor" with top security officials, including NSA Ajit Doval and service chiefs, to discuss future actions and ongoing ceasefire violations by Pakistan, following India's earlier strikes on terror infrastructure.