Google commemorated the start of the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections in India with a special doodle featuring an inked index finger, symbolizing the essence of voting in democracy. The doodle, reflecting the nation's democratic ethos, underscores civic engagement and the importance of active participation in shaping India's political landscape. With the first phase of voting witnessing a significant turnout across 17 states and four Union Territories, the doodle serves as a visual tribute to India's democracy and the power of citizens' voices in the electoral process.

India prepares for the first phase of Lok Sabha elections with 102 seats across 21 states and union territories. Over 16.63 crore voters are set to cast their votes. The Election Commission ensures adequate arrangements with 1.87 lakh polling stations and 18 lakh poll officials. Notably, 35.67 lakh first-time voters and 3.51 crore voters aged 20-29 are registered. Various measures, including central force deployment, webcasting, and observer teams, aim for a peaceful and fair election process. The ECI emphasizes voter responsibility and pride in exercising their right.

In response to the ongoing ethnic conflict, Manipur takes a historic step by establishing special polling stations for internally displaced people ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. Poornima Laishram, a 38-year-old resident who lost her home and voter ID in the violence, symbolizes the resilience of the displaced population. With 94 special polling stations set up across the state, the Election Commission aims to ensure democratic participation despite security concerns and geographical divides. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between Hill districts and Valley regions, allowing displaced voters to cast their ballots and have their voices heard.

Election Commission officials undertook a challenging trek to ensure 44-year-old Sokhela Tayang, the sole voter of Malogam village in Arunachal Pradesh, could cast her vote in the Lok Sabha poll. Tayang, living alone after her parents' passing, resides in a remote area near the China border. The EC team, accompanied by security personnel, covered rough terrain to set up a polling station. Tayang's participation highlights the dedication to democracy, with 102 constituencies across 21 states and Union Territories voting in India's largest-ever election.

Nestle India addresses concerns over high sugar levels in Cerelac and Nido baby food brands, stating a reduction of up to 30% in added sugars over five years. The Public Eye's study revealed elevated sugar content in Nestle products sold in low and middle-income countries, contrary to international guidelines. India's Food Safety and Standards Authority has taken notice. Nestle assures commitment to nutritional quality, leveraging global research and development. The report found varying sugar levels across countries, prompting scrutiny of Nestle's baby food formulations. WHO guidelines recommend no added sugars for children under three, emphasizing the importance of nutritional standards.

Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan's security has been bolstered following a recent shooting near Salman Khan's residence. Shah Rukh, who was in Kolkata for a cricket event, was seen leaving amidst heavy security. Armed guards, police, and airport security escorted him as he departed late at night. Videos circulating online captured the heightened security measures. This comes after two individuals fired shots outside Salman Khan's home, prompting concerns. Shah Rukh Khan adhered to security protocols during routine checks at the airport. Despite the late hour, fans gathered to catch a glimpse of the star before his departure.

Members of a religious group vandalized Mother Teresa School in Telangana's Mancherial district after teachers reportedly barred students in 'Hanuman Deeksha dress' from entering classrooms. The dispute arose when teachers objected to the saffron attire worn by some students as part of a religious observance. A case has been filed against school officials under sections 153(A) and 295(A) of the Indian Penal Code. Despite the school management's assertion that students were asked to bring parents due to uniform non-compliance, protests ensued, resulting in property damage. Police are investigating, with no arrests made as of now.          

Enforcement Directorate seizes properties valued at Rs 97 crore belonging to Raj Kundra, husband of actress Shilpa Shetty, over allegations of a Rs 6,600 crore bitcoin scam in 2017. The agency claims Kundra and associates promised investors a 10% return on funds collected in bitcoins for mining, concealing ill-gotten assets in online wallets. Kundra allegedly received 286 bitcoins from Ponzi scam mastermind Amit Bhardwaj. Despite no direct link to the pornography racket, Kundra faced scrutiny in a 2021 adult-film case. He secured bail in September 2021. Official statement from Kundra pending.            

The 18th Lok Sabha elections commence on April 19 with phase one covering 102 constituencies across 21 states and union territories. Concurrently, assembly elections are scheduled in Arunachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Sikkim. Key contests include Tamil Nadu's 39 constituencies with notable candidates like former Telangana governor Tamilisai Soundararajan and DMK leader Dayanidhi Maran. Union ministers Nitin Gadkari and Sarbananda Sonowal are also in the fray from Nagpur and Dibrugarh, respectively. The Election Commission of India's schedule extends until June 1, with vote counting set for June 4.

India unveils updated Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) regulations for satellite activities, just before Elon Musk's upcoming trip. The amendments allow up to 100% FDI for satellite component manufacturing and related segments. Musk, set to meet PM Modi, is expected to unveil Starlink and investments worth $2-3 billion. Starlink seeks permission to operate in India with its 4,000-strong satellite network. The changes enable easier foreign investment in satellite manufacturing, operations, and data products, aiming to bolster the country's space industry. The move aligns with India's efforts to attract tech giants and boost its space capabilities.