Mid Day
Elections 2026Mumbai / Mid Day
Journalist Amal Khalil, reporting on the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon. Her body was recovered hours after the strike in al-Tiri village
The White House said US President Donald Trump will determine the timeline of the ongoing West Asia conflict based on American interests, with no fixed deadline for ceasefire or blockade
US markets surged to fresh highs, driven by strong corporate earnings from companies like GE Vernova and Boeing. However, Brent crude oil rose above USD 100 a barrel amid escalating conflict concerns involving Iran and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, keeping investors cautious despite the rally
Tensions escalated in the Strait of Hormuz after Iran reportedly attacked and seized multiple ships, raising fears over global oil supply disruption. Conflicting statements and ongoing US naval enforcement have added to uncertainty, with major shipping traffic slowing amid security risks
A chemical leak at Catalyst Refiners in Institute killed two people and sent 19 others to hospital after a violent reaction involving Nitric acid. Authorities said several responders were also affected, while a temporary shelter-in-place order was issued in the surrounding area
The Supreme Court of India has criticised Mamata Banerjee over alleged interference during an Enforcement Directorate raid linked to I-PAC in Kolkata, warning that such actions could undermine democratic processes
IRGC-N named the vessels as MSC-Francesca and Epaminodas, PressTV reported (though it spelt it as Epaminodas). Two shipping monitoring websites said the Liberian-flagged Epaminodas was travelling to Mundra in Gujarat from Jebel Ali port in Dubai
A new wastewater treatment process converts sewage into nearly pure renewable natural gas using advanced heating and a patented bacterial strain. The method has doubled efficiency, increased gas output by 200 pc, and significantly reduced disposal costs.
Two people, including a 12-year-old boy, were killed in separate elephant attacks in Koderma district. The incidents occurred at brick kiln sites, with lapses in alerting workers reportedly contributing to the fatalities
A YouTuber from Double M Innovations has demonstrated a DIY nuclear battery that generates electricity from radioactive decay. Using Tritium and solar cells, the device produces only very small amounts of power, highlighting both its potential and limitations
Polling began across 152 constituencies in West Bengals first phase with heavy security deployment. Over 3.6 crore voters are eligible as districts across the state witness a high-stakes contest between the BJP and the TMC
Life remained disrupted in large parts of Manipur as shutdowns called by ethnic groups affected 12 districts. The protests, led by a Joint Action Committee, are linked to the April 7 blast in Bishnupur district that killed two children
The Wankhede always had its charm and that will continue, no matter how extravagant, expansive and elaborate the to-be-built 100,000-capacity stadium will be
The stunt was allegedly being shot by a duo on a motorcycle. Even the other two have reportedly been injured.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has urged Lebanon to work with Israel to disarm Hezbollah ahead of rare direct talks in Washington. The discussions mark a significant diplomatic moment between the two nations after decades
Voting for Baramati and Rahuri assembly bypolls in Maharashtra began at 7 am on Thursday. Deputy CM Sunetra Pawar seeks support amid a sympathy wave following Ajit Pawars death, while key candidates battle it out in both constituencies
The Election Commission has issued a notice to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge over his terrorist remark against PM Narendra Modi, seeking a reply within 24 hours. The action follows a BJP delegations complaint demanding strict action
Heatwave-like conditions have persisted through the week, with officials indicating that temperatures are likely to remain high for the next two days before dipping slightly by 2-3 degrees Celsius
The Indian National Congress plans to push for including OBCs in the womens reservation quota, citing upcoming caste census data. The move follows the defeat of the womens reservation bill in the Lok Sabha and aims to strengthen OBC representation in legislatures
The Government of Maharashtra has approved a major restructuring of Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (Mahavitaran) to improve its finances and efficiency. The move aims to support the states goal of becoming a USD 1 trillion economy
According to the poll body, enforcement agencies have seized cash, liquor, drugs, precious metals, and other freebies collectively valued at Rs 1,072.13 crore since the activation of the Election Seizure Management System (ESMS) on February 26
Gross enrolments during the Financial Year 202526 crossed 1.35 crore subscribers, marking the highest-ever enrolments recorded in a single financial year since the inception of the scheme, according to a Finance Ministry statement
Jammu and Kashmir Shiv Sena (UBT) staged a symbolic protest by carrying a green coffin to mark the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. The rally paid tribute to victims while condemning terrorism, as families of victims recalled their grief
According to police sources, the woman had checked into the homestay named `Devi Villa` on April 19, when she was allegedly sexually assaulted by a man identified as Vrujesh Kumar, a native of Jharkhand
Maharashtra is set to witness typical pre-monsoon variability over the next few days, with thunderstorms and rain affecting western and coastal regions, even as heat continues to dominate the interiors
An Iranian gunboat opened fire on a container ship off Oman, damaging its bridge, while another cargo vessel near Iran was also targeted and halted near the Strait of Hormuz, according to UK maritime authorities
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has enabled the first-ever commercial ad shoot on Mumbai Metro Line 2B, generating Rs 20.35 lakh in revenue. The initiative aims to boost non-fare income and transform metro infrastructure into a multi-purpose urban asset
PM Modi wrote to over one crore civil servants, urging them to adopt the principle of Nagrikdevo Bhava (citizen is god) and place citizens at the center of governance
Iran executed a man, Mehdi Farid, over alleged links to Israels Mossad, amid a surge in executions during ongoing conflict and protests. A local report said he was passing information to the Israeli spy agency
Military planners from over 30 countries are meeting in the UK to create a joint plan, led by the UK and France, to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after a ceasefire, focusing on maritime security and safe global trade routes
As the Char Dham Yatra begins, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged pilgrims to maintain cleanliness, avoid plastic use, support local businesses, and follow rules. He also stressed environmental protection and responsible travel in the fragile Himalayan region
The portals of Kedarnath temple reopened on April 22 amid fresh snowfall, attracting thousands of pilgrims to the shrine. Authorities have tightened security and issued advisories to ensure safety and maintain sanctity during the yatra
On the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge paid tribute to the 26 victims and hailed the armed forces role in Operation Sindoor, asserting that India remains united and resolute against terrorism
Marking one year of the Pahalgam terror attack, a victims wife shared her grief and anger, calling for global action against terrorism while acknowledging the complexities of geopolitics. The attack had claimed 26 lives and triggered military escalation between India and Pakistan
Sensex and Nifty declined in early trade on Wednesday after a strong three-day rally, dragged by heavy selling in IT stocks. HCL Tech plunged nearly 9 per cent, while global uncertainties and FII outflows added pressure, keeping market sentiment volatile
India on Wednesday marks one year of the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, in which Pakistan-backed terrorists killed 26 tourists after identifying their religion. The massacre was among the most brutal attacks on civilians in recent years and triggered nationwide outrage
In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump said the decision followed a request from Pakistans leadership and due to internal divisions within Irans government. The announcement came just hours before the two-week ceasefire was set to expire, leaving the next round of peace talks in uncertainty
The US has paused Vice President JD Vances Pakistan visit after extending the ceasefire with Iran. President Donald Trump said the truce will continue until Tehran submits a proposal, even as uncertainty surrounds talks and the US maintains its blockade of Iranian ports
The United States has imposed sanctions on 14 individuals, entities and aircraft linked to Iran, targeting networks involved in procuring weapons and components. The move aims to disrupt Irans military supply chains amid ongoing tensions and stalled diplomatic talks
A group of 30 visually impaired students from Nari Uday Foundations Andh Prakash Vidyalaya in Rohtak visited the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya for darshan. The visit was undertaken with devotion and hope, said caretaker Rani Hooda Ahlawat
Union Home Minister Amit Shah promised one lakh jobs per year for West Bengals youth if the BJP comes to power, while addressing a rally in Kulti. He also accused the state government of mismanagement and vowed to revive the regions industrial sector and curb illegal mining
The Special Cell of Delhi Police has arrested two operatives allegedly working at the behest of Pakistan-based gangster and ISI proxy Shahzad Bhatti, with the police unearthing a criminal conspiracy to carry out firing, grenade attacks and target killings in the Delhi-NCR region, an official said on Tuesday.
Japan has scrapped its long-standing ban on exporting lethal weapons, marking a major shift in its post-war defence policy. The decision by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis Cabinet opens the door for exports of warships, combat drones and other arms as Tokyo seeks to strengthen its defence industry amid regional tensions
A shooting at Mexicos Teotihuacan pyramids left a Canadian tourist dead and at least 13 people injured. Authorities said the gunman opened fire at the site before dying by suicide. Police recovered weapons from the scene, and several victims remain hospitalised with gunshot injuries
At least eight people were killed and several others injured in a blast at a fireworks manufacturing unit in Keralas Mundathikkode district. The explosion occurred in a shed where crackers were being prepared for the upcoming Thrissur Pooram festival, officials said
NASAs Curiosity rover has detected a diverse mix of organic molecules, including nitrogen- and sulfur-bearing compounds, in clay-rich rocks in Mars Gale Crater. The findings, made using its onboard SAM instrument, mark the first such chemical experiment conducted on another planet
Irans UN ambassador Amir Saeed Iravani has urged the United Nations to intervene after the US seized an Iranian vessel, Touska, in the Sea of Oman. Calling it unlawful and a violation of international law, Iran demanded the immediate release of the ship, its crew and their families
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has thanked US President Donald Trump for extending the ceasefire with Iran, offering more time for diplomatic negotiations. The move comes amid uncertainty over upcoming talks, as efforts continue to avoid escalation and reach a long-term peace agreement
The Hong Kong government has moved to confiscate assets worth over $16 million linked to jailed media tycoon Jimmy Lai. Authorities have filed in court seeking forfeiture of funds and corporate shares, though details on how the assets are tied to alleged crimes remain unclear
The US military has proposed a major increase in defence spending, focusing on drones, missile systems, and air defence amid ongoing tensions with Iran. The plan includes boosting munitions stockpiles and investing heavily in modern warfare technologies

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