Stories from earlier this week and beyond.
A festive treat turned deadly in Bajto village, Giridih, Jharkhand, after suspected mass food poisoning from a roadside golgappa vendor. One child died and nearly 20 others, along with two adults, were hospitalised. Authorities have opened an immediate probe and are conducting food and water tests to identify what caused the outbreak.
A widening crisis around the Strait of Hormuz is raising recession fears for Gulf economies as attacks and shipping restrictions disrupt maritime security, energy supplies, and key trade routes. Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Iran, Israel, and the US are in talks aimed at mediation and ceasefire efforts. The fallout could ripple into global growth and stability.
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As employees push for work from home, staffing firms warn of labour shortages hitting manufacturing, logistics, hospitality and facility management. At the same time, consumers in big cities report frequent no-shows from home-service platforms like Urban Company and Snabbit. The result is a tightening market where both workplaces and household services feel the strain.
Reliance’s consumer goods business is accelerating, with daily essentials emerging as its largest revenue source at ₹8,800 crore in FY26. Beverages are also performing strongly, and the overall FMCG portfolio is projected to hit ₹22,000 crore this year. Campa soft drinks lead brand sales, while Independence staples are close behind as Reliance expands its range.
Paradise Biryani is planning a ₹100 crore fundraise to power rapid expansion of its Hyderabadi brand. With 57 stores today, it targets 160 outlets, aiming to add 100 new outlets in the next three years and move into major markets like Pune and Kolkata. The company is betting on strong momentum in India’s growing biryani market.
Reliance Industries’ March quarter brought pressure on oil and gas, but digital, telecom, and retail helped cushion results. Investors are now looking closely at non-oil performance for the next phase of earnings momentum. The company’s new energy GIGA factory is expected to start operating this year, while telecom ARPU inched up and retail grew, though EBITDA gains stayed muted.
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Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi departed for Moscow after talks in Pakistan, where Islamabad claimed it is pushing a US-Tehran peace framework. The trip followed meetings tied to ending the war, while Araghchi questioned whether the US will stick to diplomacy amid escalating US-Israel tensions. Diplomats now watch Russia’s role closely.
A Delhi Police Special Cell head constable was arrested after allegedly firing during an early-morning noise dispute in Dwarka. The accused, identified as Neeraj, reportedly opened fire around 2 am, killing one labourer and injuring another. Police say he absconded initially but was later traced and detained as the investigation continues.
Sangeeta Agarwal, a young artist from Siliguri, West Bengal, shared her joy after receiving a letter of appreciation from the Prime Minister's Office for a portrait she gifted to PM Narendra Modi. The gesture, sparked by an earlier meeting during his assembly visit, turned into unexpected recognition, leaving her surprised and proud of her sketch.
FBI Director Kash Patel’s real-time reaction went viral after a shooting scare near the White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton, an event attended by President Donald Trump. A gunman was arrested after firing near the ballroom. The incident sparked an urgent Secret Service response and an ongoing investigation into the suspect’s motives.
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Lodha Developers is planning a major jump in annuity income, aiming to multiply it tenfold to exceed ₹3,000 crore within six years. The expansion will be driven by heavy investment across data centres, retail, and warehousing, with a standout project: a 1 GW data centre planned near Mumbai in Palava. The move signals a push into infrastructure-led recurring cash flows.
Kazuko Hosoki, known as Japan’s “Hell Lady,” went from post-war hardship and a nightlife career to national fame as a fortune teller, author, and TV personality. Her Six Star Astrology system drew record audiences and bestsellers, but her media prominence also fueled controversy. Netflix’s Straight to Hell brings her legacy back into focus, raising fresh questions about fame, influence, and belief.
The White House says the gunman behind the Washington Hilton shooting had a deadly mission to assassinate President Donald Trump during the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner. The attack reportedly targeted the president and his top team amid a high-profile press event, raising fresh questions about security planning and how the attacker got close enough to strike.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has transferred the investigation into the recovery of 79 crude bombs in South 24 Parganas, West Bengal, to the NIA, citing serious national security concerns. In parallel, the Election Commission has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the state police to arrest those behind the bomb-making, signaling an urgent crackdown ahead of Phase-2 polls.
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UFC CEO Dana White faced backlash after a profanity-laced, blunt reaction to the shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner. White was among the high-profile guests, and the clip quickly spread online, drawing criticism for how his comments handled a violent moment. The incident reignited debate over public reactions during major security scares.
Jammu police say they shot dead gangster Nagi and his associate Janu after the duo fired at a police checkpoint and attempted to escape. The brief, intense exchange ended during the chase, with both killed. Police allege the men were hardcore history-sheeters wanted in multiple FIRs, involved in arms smuggling and narcotics.
India’s tourism push gets a ruleset makeover as the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways prepares to finalise draft guidelines for trailer caravans. The proposed standards aim to bring recreational vehicles and camper vans under clearer compliance, setting expectations for safety and quality. If adopted, it could expand legal, organised options for travellers looking for new road-trip experiences.
Jaisalmer in Rajasthan is enduring a brutal Thar heatwave, with temperatures around 46°C and scorching “loo” winds driving people off the streets by afternoon. Streets go nearly empty, described as curfew-like silence, as residents scramble to find cold water. Camels, too, are forced to seek refuge near ponds to beat the relentless heat.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured refugees in West Bengal that they will not lose citizenship and will get stable homes. In the same address, he warned alleged infiltrators to vacate before May 4. Union Home Minister Amit Shah meanwhile urged voters to back the BJP, promising action against lawlessness and corruption in the upcoming elections.
Hyderabad-based Sigma Advanced Systems has secured a ₹3,800 crore, seven-year contract with Rolls-Royce to supply high-precision aerospace components. The deal strengthens Sigma’s role in the company’s global supply chain, translating into multi-year revenue visibility and upgraded manufacturing capabilities for India’s defence and aerospace ecosystem.
India’s power demand hit a record 256 GW on Saturday as a heatwave pushed temperatures up across much of the country. IMD data shows day highs often in the 40–45°C range, except parts of the Himalayas, northeast, west coast and southern peninsula. Summer 2025 peak demand had been lower at 243 GW, helped by favourable weather and an early monsoon.
West Asia unrest is pushing India to rethink risk management by identifying key economic chokepoints across energy, agriculture, and mineral supplies. Officials say diversifying sourcing, expanding renewable energy, and targeting supply and price risks together can blunt disruptions. The message also notes inflation remains manageable, but preparation for shock scenarios is now urgent.
Donald Trump said the suspected gunman who allegedly tried to storm a gala dinner where he was present had written an anti-Christian manifesto. Trump claimed the document shows the attacker “hates Christians,” shifting focus from the assault attempt to the suspect’s stated beliefs and motivations. Details beyond Trump’s remarks were not included here.
India and New Zealand are close to signing a free trade agreement after talks restarted in 2024, ending a decade-long pause. The proposed pact targets doubling bilateral trade to $5 billion over the next five years, as both sides look to expand market access and strengthen economic ties after years of delays.
The Election Commission of India has ordered West Bengal Police to run a 24-hour operation to arrest people involved in bomb-making and seize all explosive materials. The ECI warned officers that they would face “unprecedented consequences” if any threatening items are found. The National Investigation Agency will probe all such cases, with the directive aimed at ensuring election-related security.
With Bengal set for Phase 2 polling on April 29, election authorities are prioritizing strict voter identification and booth security. Police have arrested over 500 individuals with criminal backgrounds, while Quick Response Teams will patrol Kolkata’s narrow lanes on motorbikes. Sensitive polling booths will be monitored closely through surveillance cameras to prevent disruptions.
A Hindu temple caretaker, Nayan Sadhu, was found hanged from a tree in Cox’s Bazar after going missing. Rights groups and minority community members are demanding accountability, warning that religious intolerance is rising in Bangladesh. The death comes about a month after a spiritual leader was beaten to death, intensifying calls for justice and stronger protection for minorities.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set for a week-long European tour starting around May 18, with key engagements across Oslo, the Netherlands, and Italy. He will attend the India-Nordic summit focused on green energy and innovation, and hold discussions spanning trade, defence, and energy. A potential meeting with the Pope is also reportedly being considered.
The RBI has eased branch opening rules for NBFCs, giving gold loan lenders more flexibility to expand their physical footprint. The change is expected to improve the speed and availability of credit for small businesses, farmers, and households, strengthening India’s credit architecture and backing more inclusive, steady economic growth.
A shotgun attack in Washington put a Secret Service agent in the line of fire near the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, prompting officials to believe administration figures were targeted. Donald Trump and his wife were rushed out as the suspect was arrested. The agent survived, with a bulletproof vest credited for stopping the round, raising urgent security concerns.
BRICS members at a New Delhi meeting could not forge a unified position on the US Israel Iran conflict, despite efforts to align messaging. Instead of a collective outcome document, the group issued only a chair’s statement due to deep disagreements among states. India maintained its support for a two-state solution for Palestine, keeping its position unchanged.
In Madhogarh village, Rajasthan, a man tried to escape scorching heat by covering his head with a 10 kg metal milk can while riding his motorcycle. But the “jugaad” backfired when the can stuck tightly and became impossible to remove. Local residents worked for nearly two hours, using tools to cut it open, freeing him safely without injuries.
President Trump said Iran can initiate talks to end the ongoing war, as Iran’s Foreign Minister Araqchi returns to Pakistan for discussions. Peace hopes had cooled after Trump canceled a planned visit by his envoys. Iran is also pressing the US to acknowledge its right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes, amid mounting deaths and economic strain.
Carlos Brathwaite believes 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could be groomed like West Indies great Brian Lara before his international debut. The Rajasthan Royals batter exploded against Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL action, scoring a 37-ball 103 featuring 12 sixes and a 278.38 strike rate, leaving Brathwaite convinced he has the temperament to rise quickly.
A suspected shooter, Cole Allen, allegedly sent a manifesto to his family just 10 minutes before opening fire at the Washington Hilton Hotel during the White House Correspondents' Association gala. Authorities say the 31-year-old outlined his motives in the document, turning a shocking attack into a carefully timed and explained act in writing. The investigation continues into his intent and background.
A Hindu man identified as Nayan Sadhu, 40, was found hanging from a tree in Bangladesh’s Chattogram region. The Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council said he worked as a caretaker-cum-priest at a Shivakali temple and called for strong action. Details around what led to his death remain unclear as the minority group pushes for accountability.
A heavy snow warning has been issued for parts of the U.S., with Colorado and Wyoming among the areas expected to be hit Sunday night into Monday morning. Forecasters also anticipate strong winds that may worsen conditions, increasing risks for road travel and visibility. Residents are urged to check updates and prepare for disruptions as the storm develops.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi prayed at Kolkata’s Thanthania Kali Bari before a city roadshow, as Bengal braces for the final assembly phase on April 29. The visit spotlights the temple’s well-known non-veg prasad tradition, amid a wider political debate over the state’s fish ban.
CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad attributed Chennai’s IPL 2026 loss to Gujarat Titans to their inability to adapt to Chepauk’s changing, unpredictable pitch. CSK initially targeted 170-180, but frequent middle-overs wickets stopped partnerships from forming and prevented momentum from shifting, leaving them unable to convert a competitive start into a defendable total.
An Air India flight flying Mumbai to Bhopal made a priority landing after reporting a technical issue. The aircraft, carrying 175 people, landed safely and airport officials said safety protocols were followed. To complete a detailed inspection, the return flight from Bhopal to Mumbai was cancelled, and passengers were given the required assistance.
HDFC Bank’s exit story has turned into a wider governance alarm. The article argues that weak, poorly selected boards—whether in corporates or nonprofits—fail at oversight, enabling scandals and even organizational collapse. It highlights a recurring gap in the social sector, where many boards lack regulatory know-how and active engagement. Better training and tougher selection are urged to prevent repeat failures.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman apologized to a Canadian town reeling from a February mass shooting, admitting the company failed to alert police about the shooter’s concerning ChatGPT account. Canadian officials criticized OpenAI’s response and summoned company leadership to Ottawa to explain its security and reporting protocols, escalating scrutiny of how AI platforms handle dangerous content.
Gujarat’s local body elections ended peacefully, with urban turnout reported below 50 percent while tribal regions saw higher participation despite scorching heat. Voting covered municipal corporations, municipalities, and district and taluka panchayats. The exercise is seen as a key preview for next year’s assembly polls, with vote counting scheduled for April 28.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu met Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi to seek continued support for crucial border infrastructure. Khandu pointed to progress in border districts, linking development to improved security and everyday lives. The talks focused on the Akajan Likabali Bame corridor and the need to build or upgrade a key bridge to keep the connectivity push moving.
Minutes before Cole Allen opened fire at a White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, he allegedly sent a manifesto to his family outlining his reasons. The purported anti Trump document was delivered shortly before the attack, intensifying questions about planning and intent. Authorities continue to investigate the claims, the timeline, and Allen’s connections, as security and public safety focus sharpens.
An intense heatwave across India is forcing schools to adjust routines as temperatures cross 44°C. Multiple states have moved classes to early mornings, announced early summer vacations, or ordered temporary closures. Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, and Maharashtra are among those changing school hours, while Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, and Tripura have preponed holidays or shut schools to protect students.
Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi returned to Pakistan just a day after talks concluded in Oman, fueling questions over whether diplomacy between Tehran and Washington has hit another snag. In Islamabad, he met top military and civilian leadership including the army chief, foreign minister Ishaq Dar, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The discussions reportedly covered bilateral ties and wider regional developments.
US President Donald Trump said American negotiators will not travel for truce talks, adding that Iran can instead reach out to Washington directly. While claiming Pakistan will remain engaged as progress is made, Trump said future discussions will be held by telephone. The remarks signal a tougher posture toward Iran diplomacy and limit in-person channels.
President Donald Trump referenced a shooting at a Washington gala to argue that his planned large ballroom next to the White House is necessary. In a post, he claimed the tragedy would not have occurred if a “Militarily Top Secret Ballroom” now under construction had been in place, despite legal challenges surrounding the broader project.
The CBI has registered a corruption case tied to a government drain construction contract awarded in 2015-16. Investigators say the work may not have been executed even as payments were made. The probe reportedly centers on a deceased individual described as a relative of former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, with the agency examining whether Kejriwal had any role.
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