The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has conducted a 3D mapping of Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam as part of its probe into a recent terror attack. Officials said the mapping, based on witness testimonies, aims to reconstruct the sequence of events and identify possible escape routes or hideouts. This advanced forensic technique, previously used in the 2019 Pulwama attack investigation, helps create a detailed visual model of the crime scene. The NIA's revisit highlights the agency’s focus on leveraging technology to ensure accuracy in high-profile terrorism cases. The investigation remains ongoing. ( PC: Hindustan Times )

On April 30, 2025, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi welcomed the Union Cabinet's decision to include caste enumeration in the upcoming national census, a significant shift in government policy. He stated that while the move was a positive step, it must be backed by a clear timeline and dedicated budget to ensure effective implementation. Gandhi also called for the removal of the 50% cap on reservations, arguing it limits opportunities for marginalized communities. Citing Telangana's model caste census, he urged the Centre to adopt a comprehensive approach and reaffirmed Congress’s commitment to social justice. (PC: Mint)    

Following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired crucial meetings of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) and Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA) — the first such "super cabinet" meeting since the 2019 Pulwama attack. The government granted the armed forces complete autonomy to determine the timing and nature of any retaliatory actions. Key decisions included suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, closing the Attari border, and revamping the National Security Advisory Board with ex-RAW chief Alok Joshi appointed as its new head. Tensions with Pakistan remain high. (PC: India Today)  

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has confirmed that the next nationwide census will include caste enumeration for the first time in decades, marking a significant policy development in India’s approach to social data collection. This inclusion aims to generate detailed insights into the socio-economic conditions of various caste groups, enabling more targeted welfare schemes and informed policy decisions. The move responds to growing political and public pressure for greater transparency and social justice. While hailed by proponents of equity, the decision also sparks debate over the risks of deepening caste-based divisions. (PC: The Hindu)  

Deven Bharti, a 1994-batch IPS officer known for his role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack investigation, has been appointed as the new Mumbai Police Commissioner, replacing Vivek Phansalkar who retired on April 30, 2025. Bharti has previously served as Joint CP (Law & Order), Additional CP (Crime), ATS Chief, and Mumbai’s first Special Commissioner of Police. His close ties with CM Devendra Fadnavis have raised political concerns, but his appointment is expected to bring experienced leadership to the city’s police force. (PC: India Today)

On April 30, 2025, a tragic wall collapse at the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam, claimed the lives of 8 devotees and injured several others. The incident occurred around 2:30 AM during the annual Chandanotsavam festival as devotees queued for 'Nijaroopa Darshan'. Heavy rainfall and strong winds are suspected to have caused the newly built wall near a ₹300 ticket queue line to collapse. Rescue teams from NDRF, SDRF, and local authorities responded swiftly. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu expressed grief and ordered an investigation and compensation for victims' families. (PC: The Hindu)  

A massive fire broke out at Rituraj Hotel in central Kolkata around 8:15 p.m., claiming the lives of 14 people. The blaze spread quickly through the building, trapping several guests and staff. Firefighters managed to rescue multiple individuals and bring the situation under control after hours of effort. Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma confirmed the casualties and said a special investigation team has been formed to probe the incident. Preliminary findings suggest possible violations of fire safety norms. The tragedy has sparked concerns over fire preparedness and safety compliance in city establishments. (PC: NDTV)  

Following the deadly terror ambush on Indian Army personnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has authorized the armed forces to take any necessary action in response. The attack, attributed to Pakistan-based terror groups, claimed the lives of four soldiers and injured several others. In a high-level security review, PM Modi directed top officials to ensure the perpetrators face strong retaliation. He reaffirmed India’s zero-tolerance policy on terrorism and expressed solidarity with the armed forces, granting them full operational freedom to counter future threats from across the border.  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a high-level security meeting following the deadly April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, declared that the Indian armed forces are “free to decide when, how to hit back.” Expressing full confidence in the professionalism of the military, Modi reiterated, “It is our national resolve to deliver a crushing blow to terrorism.” He further vowed that those responsible, including their supporters in Pakistan, will face punishment “beyond their imagination.” The meeting included Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, NSA Ajit Doval, and the chiefs of the armed services, as India considers its strategic and diplomatic responses to the attack.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a high-level security meeting on April 29, declared that the armed forces have full operational freedom to retaliate following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. “It is our national resolve to deliver a crushing blow to terrorism,” Modi stated, as he met with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, NSA Ajit Doval, and military chiefs. The PM expressed complete confidence in the forces’ professionalism, granting them autonomy over when, how, and where to strike. India has already suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, hinting at a strong and strategic counter-response ahead. (PC: ANI)