As voters gear up for the May 7 elections in Dhubri, Assam, all eyes are on the construction of India's longest river bridge. This 20-kilometer bridge will link Dhubri to Phulwari, Meghalaya, promising to cut travel time and boost trade. Residents eagerly await relief from the arduous boat journeys across the Brahmaputra, especially during the monsoon season. With the bridge expected to be completed by 2027, political parties, including AIUDF, AGP, and Congress, vie for recognition in its development. Amidst the buzz, locals, from students to businessmen, anticipate a smoother commute and enhanced connectivity between the two states.

India's food safety regulator, FSSAI, has increased the maximum allowed pesticide residue in spices and herbs from 0.01 mg/kg to 0.1 mg/kg. This applies when limits are not defined in Indian or international regulations. The move comes after some Indian spice mixes were removed from foreign markets due to excessive pesticide residue. Experts claim the new limit is still a trace amount and unlikely to harm human health. The government has clarified that reports of a 10-fold increase are false and malicious. The limits are dynamic and based on field trials and human health impact evidence.

An MBBS student, Abhishek Gupta, was detained for impersonating a NEET aspirant in Rajasthan's Bharatpur. He was part of a racket that took Rs 10 lakh from the candidate, Rahul Gurjar. Five others, including Gurjar, were also detained. The incident came to light when the invigilator suspected Abhishek's identity. The National Testing Agency has taken measures to ensure affected candidates can reappear for the exam. This incident highlights the need for stricter security measures to prevent such frauds in competitive exams.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi makes his first visit to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya since its inauguration, offering 'sashtang dandavat' pranam to Ram Lalla. Clad in golden attire, Modi embarks on a roadshow after prayers, ahead of filing nomination from Varanasi. The event marks Modi's engagement amidst campaigning in Uttar Pradesh, as Ayodhya gears up for polling. Ayodhya, known for its significance in Indian politics, witnesses Modi's grand reception. This visit underscores Modi's spiritual and political connection to the temple town, resonating with supporters ahead of elections.      

Intelligence sources reveal that the terrorist attack on an Indian Air Force convoy in Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, was carried out by four Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) militants trained by Sajid Jutt. The ambush resulted in the death of Corporal Vikky Pahade and injuries to four other soldiers. A massive search operation is underway as forces pursue the fleeing terrorists. This attack, occurring weeks before polling in the Anantnag-Rajouri constituency, underscores the persistent threat of terrorism in the region. The involvement of the same group responsible for previous attacks indicates ongoing security challenges in Poonch and Rajouri.          

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh shared positive updates on talks between India and China over the Ladakh standoff, signaling hope for a resolution. Despite the prolonged face-off since May 2020, discussions are progressing well. Singh highlighted India's speedy border infrastructure development, reassuring the nation's security. He criticized the Congress for undermining Indian soldiers' valor and hinted at historical conflicts, including the 1962 war. The standoff, though witnessing disengagement at certain points, continues without a full resolution. Singh's remarks reflect cautious optimism amidst ongoing diplomatic efforts to ease tensions along the Line of Actual Control.

An Indian Army helicopter, ALH Dhruv, made a safe precautionary landing in a field in Sangli district, Maharashtra, on Saturday due to a technical snag. The helicopter, en-route to Bengaluru from Nashik, experienced excessive vibration, prompting the pilots to land. All three army personnel on board, including two pilots and a technician, are safe. The incident comes a month after an IAF Chetak helicopter made a precautionary landing in Rajasthan due to an engine chip warning light. The helicopter has since flown back to Nasik military station.

A bus carrying 28 police personnel overturned in Madhya Pradesh's Datia district on Saturday evening, leaving all of them injured. The personnel were returning from Chief Minister Mohan Yadav's election rally at Bhander. The driver lost control of the bus while dodging a taxi near Mohna Hanuman Mandir. The injured are being treated at a hospital. The accident occurred 75 km from Gwalior. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the accident.

Air India has reduced its free cabin baggage allowance from 20kg to 15kg for its lowest economy fare segment on domestic flights. The change is part of the airline's menu-based pricing model, which offers distinct levels of benefits and fare restrictions at various price points. The 'Comfort' and 'Comfort Plus' categories now offer 15kg of free baggage allowance, while the 'Flex' category offers 25kg. Business Class baggage allowance ranges from 25kg to 35kg on domestic routes. The move aims to provide passengers with more flexibility and choice in selecting fares and services that suit their needs.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh affirmed India's claim over Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir (PoK), stating it belongs to India. He emphasized a peaceful approach, anticipating PoK residents to willingly join India inspired by Kashmir's progress. Singh praised the positive changes in Kashmir since Article 370's revocation, highlighting economic growth and restored peace. He hinted at a potential end to the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in Jammu and Kashmir, suggesting improved conditions. Singh's comments underscore India's firm stance on PoK while aiming for a peaceful resolution and development in the region.