The PMO is pushing for independent third-party audits in road and rail projects to boost quality and speed up execution. Ministries are tasked with studying past successful construction practices, like those from the Golden Quadrilateral era, and international models from Indonesia and Malaysia.

The US may ease pressure on global oil markets, potentially allowing India to continue buying Russian crude to stabilize supply amid Middle East tensions. Washington granted India a temporary waiver to accept Russian oil shipments, ensuring energy security as crucial shipping routes face disruptions. India assures consumers of comfortable energy supplies, with diversified imports and adequate reserves.

Legal experts question the effectiveness of state-level bans on social media for children, citing central government jurisdiction over IT and telecommunications. While appreciating the intent to protect young minds, they advocate for education on constructive usage and pan-India legislation rather than fragmented state laws.

Punjab and Haryana High Court acquitted Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim in the 2002 murder of journalist Ram Chander Chhatrapati, overturning a life sentence. Ram Rahim remains jailed for rape convictions, and his family plans to challenge the acquittal in the Supreme Court.

Women relying on morning-after pills face health risks, doctors warn. Frequent use disrupts hormonal balance and menstrual cycles, with potential long-term reproductive health impacts. These pills are for emergencies, not routine contraception, and do not protect against STIs. Experts urge considering more reliable birth control methods if frequent use is needed.

In a remarkable milestone for citizenship rights, Dipali Das, a resilient 60-year-old woman from Cachar district in Assam, has proudly become the first beneficiary of the Indian Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). After being declared a foreigner and confined to a transit camp for years, her journey took a hopeful turn when she was granted bail during the pandemic.

Domestic LPG cylinders will now cost Rs 60 more, reaching Rs 913 in Delhi, while commercial prices saw a Rs 114.5 increase. This hike, attributed to global energy market pressures and the West Asia conflict, comes despite government efforts to shield households. Ujjwala beneficiaries will pay Rs 613, with a Rs 300 subsidy.

Inter-state vehicle transfers are set to become significantly easier as the government plans to eliminate the need for No Objection Certificates (NOCs). A NITI Aayog committee recommended an auto-generated clearance system, leveraging the centralized VAHAN database. This reform will greatly benefit vehicle owners relocating between states, streamlining the registration process.

India is poised to finalize trade deals with the US within months, pending clarity on American tariff strategies. New Delhi remains committed, aiming for favorable terms for its farmers, including market access for mangoes without reciprocal farm product commitments. The nation has secured a competitive advantage, with assurances for domestic apple and walnut producers.

Indians in Qatar and Bahrain are seeking Saudi transit visas as a backup plan due to flight cancellations. With airports in Doha and Bahrain largely shut, many are preparing for overland journeys to Saudi Arabia or Oman. This comes amid ongoing regional tensions, prompting a need for alternative travel routes home.

Authorities at Bhaderwah Jail in Doda district intercepted two mobile phones hidden within a parcel intended for an inmate held under the Public Safety Act. The parcel, addressed to Irshad Ahmad Wani, a resident of Bandipora, was reportedly booked by Mohammed Younis Wani from Pulwama.

A Jammu NIA court denied bail to Tanvir Ahmed Wani, accused in a terror funding case. Wani allegedly conspired with Pakistani traders, importing goods beyond limits via under-invoicing to generate profits for terror outfits like Hizbul Mujahideen and Lashkar-e-Taiba. Incriminating materials were found at his residence.

In Bandipora, Kashmir, Irfan Ahmad Lone, a visually impaired youth, has achieved a remarkable feat by clearing the UPSC civil services exams with a rank of 957. Despite facing severe vision loss in childhood due to accidents, Irfan pursued his education with unwavering determination, graduating from JNU and working before his civil services success.

In a startling twist during his Instagram live broadcast, popular YouTuber Anurag Dobhal faced a horrific car accident while expressing vulnerable thoughts on loneliness and despair. This shocking event has emerged amid ongoing tensions surrounding his intercaste marriage, which he alleges has met with familial disapproval and mental strife.

Sports Illustrated’s Gilberto Manzano projects Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson for a three-year, $105M deal with the New England Patriots and Indianapolis Colts as potential landing spots. New England needs pass rush help for their quarterback Drake Maye. And Indianapolis seeks to improve their defense under former Cincinnati defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo. The Colts may free up cap space by trading or releasing their wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., who is in the final year of his three-year contract.