The Times of India

UP Improves On Key Health Indicators, Anaemia & Early Pregnancy Remain Concerns

Unnao Police have cracked a major interstate robbery, arresting five individuals, including the alleged mastermind, and recovering a significant portion of 77 stolen refrigerators and 40 air-conditioners. The driver was assaulted and left injured before the truck was looted and its registration altered. The operation involved meticulous analysis of CCTV, GPS, and mobile surveillance.

Two accused in the alleged gang-rape of a Delhi University student surrendered before a court in Lucknow. The survivor alleged she was drugged, confined, and repeatedly assaulted over four days in a rented room. Police are now searching for a third unidentified accused.

Uttar Pradesh STF and Goa Police apprehended Ekhlaq Ahmad alias Manna Malik, a Bahraich-based alleged drug trafficker, wanted in a Goa narcotics case. Ahmad is accused of running an interstate drug trafficking network, using bus services to transport drugs from Bahraich to Goa. He has an extensive criminal history dating back to 2012.

A Meerut Cantonment Board nominated member, Satish Kumar Sharma, was apprehended by the CBI for allegedly demanding and accepting a Rs 3 lakh bribe. The payment was reportedly sought from a contractor to ensure the smooth continuation of a tender for parking, canteen, and entry fee collection at Gandhi Bagh. The CBI caught Sharma red-handed during a trap operation.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized that while non-violence is paramount, force becomes a duty when national security is threatened. Citing ancient Indian wisdom, he explained that protecting the nation and society necessitates decisive action against those who pose a danger. The armed forces embody this principle, ensuring citizens' safety and enabling development.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled the Nausena Shaurya Vatika in Lucknow, a tribute to the Indian Navy's valor. This park, featuring actual naval equipment from INS Gomti, aims to inspire future generations and foster national pride. Singh highlighted Lucknow's connection to the Navy and the importance of maritime security for India's economy and energy.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the Nausena Shaurya Vatika in Lucknow, a naval-themed memorial and museum developed for Rs 19 crore. The park, featuring the decommissioned INS Gomti, aims to showcase India's military heritage, inspire youth towards nation-building, and foster respect for the armed forces.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted Uttar Pradesh's transformation under CM Yogi Adityanath, moving from a state with poor law and order to an economic and defence hub. He noted improved security has boosted investor confidence and praised the Indian Navy's role in maintaining maritime security during Operation Sindoor, keeping Pakistan confined to its ports.

Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) has imposed a 10% fuel and power purchase adjustment surcharge on electricity consumers for June. This surcharge, based on March 2026 costs, is expected to generate over Rs 1,600 crore. Consumer advocates allege unfair burden due to inflation and inflated costs, demanding an investigation into expensive power procurement.

An eight-year-old boy tragically died after a heavy iron gate collapsed on him at the Divyangjan Sashaktikaran Department building in Lucknow. The incident occurred while the child was playing, leading to outrage and a road blockade by his family demanding action against those responsible for the alleged negligence.

Renowned Urdu poet Bashir Badr, whose simple yet profound verses resonated widely, passed away in Bhopal. Lucknow's All-India Radio provided his crucial launchpad, propelling him to national fame. His contemporaries and admirers remember him for his humility, emotional depth, and significant contribution to modern Urdu poetry, making it accessible to all.

A 28-year-old BJYM functionary from Ayodhya, Shivam Singh, has died in Lucknow following a brutal assault. An argument over cigarettes reportedly led to a group of youths attacking him with bricks and stones. Police have arrested three individuals and are searching for others involved in the fatal incident.

Tragedy struck on Dubagga road as a 23-year-old motorcyclist, Sahil, lost his life and a 10-year-old boy was critically injured in a collision with a car. Eyewitnesses allege the car was driven by a police sub-inspector's wife, with the officer present. Villagers protested, demanding justice and compensation, blocking traffic for hours.