Narendra Modi paid tribute to victims of the Pahalgam terror attack on its first anniversary, asserting that India will never bow to terrorism. A memorial honouring 26 victims has been erected in Pahalgam, while security has been intensified across Jammu and Kashmir. Investigations led by the National Investigation Agency named Lashkar-e-Taiba and The Resistance Front in the attack. Political consensus against terrorism followed, with a unanimous Assembly resolution. Despite the tragedy, tourism is gradually recovering, supported by improved security and outreach efforts in the region.

A US-based woman has alleged she was raped at a homestay in Karnataka’s Kodagu district. Police said she was given a drink mixed with intoxicants and then assaulted. Two people, including the main accused, have been arrested. The homestay owner is also under investigation. Police said the owner allegedly cut off her WiFi for three days, stopping her from seeking help. The woman later left the place and contacted US authorities. The case was then reported to Indian police. Both accused have been sent to judicial custody. Officials said further investigation, including forensic checks, is ongoing in the case. (PC: PTI)

The Government of India may soon introduce E85 fuel, a mix of 85% ethanol and 15% petrol. An official said, “Draft rules will be notified very soon.” The fuel will be separate from E20, which is already in use. E85 aims to cut oil imports and use crops like sugarcane and maize. However, new engines will be needed, as regular cars cannot use E85 safely. Fuel stations will also need new systems. The plan follows rising global oil concerns and aims to boost clean energy and support farmers. Rollout may take a few years. (PC: Reuters)

Large parts of Manipur shut down after protests over recent killings. Two children died in a blast in Bishnupur, sparking anger. In a separate attack in Ukhrul, two civilians were killed when militants fired on a convoy. Women’s group Meira Paibis held rallies, demanding justice. During one protest, three people died in firing. Markets, schools, and transport remained closed in many areas. Lawyers also protested and sought a judicial probe. The Indian National Congress blamed the Centre and asked for talks and relief. Officials said cases will be handled by the National Investigation Agency. (PC: PTI)

At least 13 people were killed and over 40 injured in a blast at a fireworks unit in Thrissur, Kerala. The explosion happened in Mundathikode on Tuesday afternoon. Officials said summer heat and dry land may have worsened the fire. “Further explosions are possible,” a fire officer warned. Rescue teams rushed to the spot, and the injured were taken to hospitals. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said, “All medical help will be provided.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi expressed grief over the loss of lives.

The Election Commission of India has extended the liquor ban to 96 hours in West Bengal before phase 1 polling. The ban began earlier than usual due to a sharp rise in liquor sales. “There is an unusual spurt in sale of liquor,” the Commission said. Polling will take place on April 23. Sales have stopped in affected areas. Officials also noted a rise in sensitive shops. The move aims to ensure free and fair elections. The state is set for a close contest between the Trinamool Congress and the BJP. Authorities are increasing monitoring.

Swarana Kanta Sharma refused to step aside from the liquor policy case involving Arvind Kejriwal. She rejected pleas alleging bias. “Recusal has to stem from law, not narrative,” she said. The judge added that giving in would weaken the court. Kejriwal had raised concerns over her links to a lawyers’ body and her family’s roles. The court said no proof of bias was shown. It warned that such claims could harm judicial independence. The case relates to the Delhi excise policy. The CBI has challenged a lower court order that discharged Kejriwal and others.

The Directorate General of GST Intelligence has uncovered a ₹1,825 crore tax credit fraud. One person was arrested at Delhi airport while returning from Dubai. Officials said he ignored many summons. “A well-structured arrangement was used to claim fake ITC,” the Ministry of Finance said. The accused ran a network of dummy firms using fake documents. These firms had no real business. Fake invoices were created without actual goods. The fraud used tobacco products to inflate value. Money was claimed through export refunds. Authorities said further investigation is ongoing.

Initial reports claimed that a private aircraft crashed into the Ara Hills in Chhattisgarh’s Jashpur district on April 20, 2026, with fears of casualties and visuals showing smoke rising from the site. Some reports suggested the plane struck trees while flying at low altitude, possibly killing pilots. However, the state government later denied any confirmed crash, stating no debris or evidence was found despite extensive searches. Police, administrative teams, and forest officials conducted ground inspections and drone surveillance in the area. Authorities continue to investigate the source of the smoke and verify claims, urging caution against spreading unverified information. (PC: India Today)

A fire broke out at the Pachpadra refinery in Rajasthan just a day before its planned inauguration by Narendra Modi. The blaze reportedly started in one of the refinery units, triggering emergency response measures. Firefighting teams quickly reached the site and managed to control the situation, preventing major damage. No casualties or injuries have been reported so far. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire. The incident has raised safety concerns, and the inauguration event may be delayed pending further assessment and security clearance.