Sufiyan Nadiadwala, the younger son of filmmaker Sajid Nadiadwala, has become the latest star kid to grab attention online after a recent public appearance in Mumbai triggered comparisons with Salman Khan’s 1990s look. The young Nadiadwala, who has not yet made his acting debut, has found himself at the centre of a growing social media conversation after videos from a film screening went viral.

His appearance has quickly turned into one of the latest talking points in Trending News India, with users across platforms calling him a striking resemblance to the Bollywood star’s younger self.

Who Is Sufiyan

Sufiyan Nadiadwala is the son of producer Sajid Nadiadwala, one of Hindi cinema’s most established filmmakers known for backing several mainstream commercial hits. While his elder brother Subhan Nadiadwala is reportedly preparing for his Bollywood debut, Sufiyan is still pursuing his studies and has largely stayed away from the public eye until now. That changed this week when Sufiyan was photographed during a film screening in Mumbai, marking one of his first widely noticed public appearances.

Salman Khan Comparison

The comparisons began almost immediately after clips of Sufiyan surfaced online. Dressed in a fitted blue T-shirt with a pendant and earrings, Sufiyan’s styling and facial features led many social media users to draw parallels with Salman Khan’s on-screen image from the 1990s.

Several users described him as a “carbon copy” of Salman Khan, while others said he appeared to be a blend of multiple Bollywood actors. The Salman Khan comparison became the dominant theme in the comment section, with many users focusing on his hairstyle, physique and overall screen presence. The reaction reflects how quickly star kids are assessed in the digital age, often before any confirmed film project or formal debut.

Social Media Reaction

The viral clip generated a wave of reactions across entertainment pages and fan accounts. Social media users flooded the comment sections with observations linking Sufiyan’s look to Salman Khan’s younger years.

Some comments remained light-hearted, while others turned speculative, underscoring how quickly celebrity culture can drive online narratives. Though much of the reaction remained playful, the volume of attention around Sufiyan’s appearance highlighted the intense scrutiny attached to celebrity families. As per reports, the video continued to gain traction through reposts and fan edits, pushing Sufiyan further into the entertainment spotlight without any official project announcement.

Family Film Legacy

Sufiyan comes from one of Bollywood’s most influential film families. His father, Sajid Nadiadwala, has produced several successful Hindi films and remains a major figure in commercial cinema. The producer also shares a long-standing professional and personal association with Salman Khan.

The two have worked together on multiple projects over the years and are known to share a close equation within the industry. That association has only added fuel to the online comparisons, with some users linking the resemblance narrative to the long-standing bond between the two families.

Industry Interest Grows

In Bollywood, star kids often attract attention well before their screen debut, and Sufiyan now appears to be the latest entrant in that cycle. From Aryan Khan to Navya Naveli Nanda, several celebrity children have remained in the spotlight even without acting careers.

Sufiyan’s sudden popularity reflects the current media environment, where one appearance can generate widespread public interest. For entertainment watchers and industry observers, the attention around him signals early audience curiosity, even though no acting plans have been formally announced.

Actor Sanjay Dutt appeared before the National Commission for Women (NCW) on Monday in connection with the Sarke Chunar controversy, which erupted after objections were raised over the alleged vulgar and objectionable portrayal of women in the song “Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke”.

The hearing was held before the Commission under the chairpersonship of NCW chief Vijaya Rahatkar. According to officials, Sanjay Dutt submitted a written apology and expressed regret for any unintended offence caused to society through the song’s depiction.

The Sarke Chunar controversy has remained in focus despite the Hindi version of the Kannada pan-India film track being removed from YouTube following public backlash.

Written Apology Submitted

During the proceedings, Sanjay Dutt acknowledged concerns raised by the Commission over the portrayal of women in the song and accepted the need for greater responsibility in creative content.

As per officials, the actor conveyed in writing that he regretted any unintended hurt caused by the song and recognised the importance of ensuring dignified and responsible representation of women in films and music content.

The Commission examined whether sufficient due diligence had been exercised before participating in content that could be viewed as promoting obscenity and objectification of women.

Education Support Pledge

As part of corrective measures, Sanjay Dutt informed the Commission that he would sponsor the education of 50 tribal girls.

Officials said the commitment was presented as a step towards social welfare and women’s empowerment, and was placed on record during the hearing. The move was seen as an effort to respond to concerns raised in the Sarke Chunar controversy with a tangible social commitment.

The Commission also reviewed the accountability of senior public figures and their role in influencing public discourse through mass media content.

Legal Vetting Promised

Sanjay Dutt also assured the Commission that future artist contracts linked to his projects would include mandatory legal scrutiny clauses.

According to officials, the proposed safeguards would seek to ensure that women and children are portrayed in a dignified and legally compliant manner in films and related creative works.

The assurance came amid growing scrutiny over content accountability in mainstream entertainment, a recurring issue in recent Government Updates and public interest debates around media standards.

Nora Seeks New Date

Actor Nora Fatehi, who was also summoned by the Commission in the matter, did not appear before the NCW on Monday. Officials said Nora Fatehi informed the Commission that she was out of the country and requested a fresh date for appearance. The Commission is expected to issue a revised hearing schedule.

Her absence means proceedings in the Sarke Chunar controversy will continue, with further scrutiny likely on the role of performers and producers associated with the song.

Earlier Appearances Recorded

The Commission had earlier conducted hearings in the matter on April 6, when other individuals and entities linked to the song appeared before the panel.

Those who appeared included director Kiran Kumar alias Prem, lyricist Raqeeb Alam and representatives of KVN Production, including Gautam K.M. and Supreeth. They had also submitted apologies before the Commission, as per reports.

The NCW had then reiterated that artistic freedom must operate within the bounds of responsibility, sensitivity and respect for women’s dignity.

What Happens Next

The NCW is expected to continue proceedings in the case after Nora Fatehi’s appearance and may review further compliance on assurances made during the hearing.

The Sarke Chunar controversy has again brought the spotlight on content regulation, accountability in popular entertainment and the responsibilities of influential public figures in shaping cultural standards.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a final appeal to voters in West Bengal on the last day of election campaigning, releasing a letter addressed to the people of the state and urging them to back the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for political change.

The letter, shared on X on Monday, came hours before campaign restrictions came into force at 5 pm. In it, Modi said West Bengal was ready for change and called on voters to replace fear with trust, declaring, “Bhay bahut hua, ab bharosa chahiye, ab BJP chahiye.”

Letter to Bengal

In his message, Modi said he was writing to every family in West Bengal to express his thoughts at the close of the campaign. He described the state’s election atmosphere as energetic and said he had witnessed a strong public desire for change during his rallies, roadshows and public meetings.

He said Bengal’s voters, especially youth, women, farmers, labourers and small traders, were united in their aspiration for a “Viksit Bengal” and wanted faster development, better security and wider economic opportunity.

Campaign Ends Today

The Prime Minister said his final rally in the state had concluded and that the formal campaign window was ending by evening. His letter marked the BJP’s last direct voter outreach before the silence period began.

According to party leaders, the outreach was designed to reinforce the BJP’s closing campaign message and consolidate support across urban and rural constituencies. The letter was positioned as both a political pitch and a personal message to voters.

Focus on Change

Modi used the letter to sharpen the BJP’s core election narrative in West Bengal, framing the contest as a choice between fear and trust. He said every family in the state was moving forward with one resolve to bring change.

He said Bengal’s youth wanted open opportunities, women wanted safety and dignity, and citizens wanted a governance model that delivered development without fear. The BJP has repeatedly centred its Bengal campaign on law and order, women’s safety and governance reforms.

Personal Political Tone

The Prime Minister also adopted a personal tone in the letter, saying he felt a distinct energy during the Bengal campaign and that despite the heat and intense schedule, he did not feel fatigue during the election trail.

He described his rallies and roadshows in the state as spiritually significant and said the affection shown by people across age groups remained his “real wealth”. Modi also referred to the public messages, letters and sketches he received during the campaign, saying he reviewed them personally after events.

BJP’s Bengal Pitch

The BJP has sought to frame the West Bengal election as a high-stakes contest over governance, development and political stability. Modi’s letter echoed that line, promising safety, development and political accountability if the BJP comes to power in the state.

He said serving Bengal and securing its future was both his promise and responsibility. He also expressed confidence that the BJP would form the next government in the state and said people would together celebrate the swearing-in of a BJP chief minister.

What Happens Next

With campaigning now closed, attention shifts to polling and voter turnout across West Bengal. The Prime Minister’s final letter is likely to remain central to the BJP’s last-mile messaging as party workers move into booth-level mobilisation.

India and New Zealand on Monday signed a bilateral free trade agreement (FTA), marking a major step in efforts to deepen economic ties and expand two-way trade and investment. The India-New Zealand FTA was signed in the presence of Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and New Zealand Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay, according to officials.

The agreement gives Indian exporters tariff-free access to the New Zealand market across all tariff lines, covering 100 per cent of India’s exports to the country. Officials said the deal is expected to strengthen trade in labour-intensive sectors and improve India’s export competitiveness in a key overseas market.

Duty-Free Market Access

Under the pact, Indian goods will now enter New Zealand without import duties across all product categories. This is expected to benefit sectors such as textiles, garments, leather, footwear, gems and jewellery, engineering goods and processed food.

Officials said the removal of tariffs would help Indian products compete more effectively with goods from other countries in the New Zealand market. Earlier, New Zealand imposed tariffs of up to 10 per cent on several Indian products, including ceramics, carpets, motor vehicles and auto components.

The agreement is expected to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which form a large part of India’s export base, and generate employment in labour-driven sectors.

India Protects Sensitive Sectors

India has offered tariff concessions on 70.03 per cent of tariff lines, which account for 95 per cent of bilateral trade by value. At the same time, 29.97 per cent of tariff lines have been kept outside the agreement to protect sensitive domestic sectors.

These excluded categories include dairy products such as milk, cream and cheese, several animal products, major farm items including onion, gram, peas, maize and almonds, sugar, artificial honey, oils and fats, arms and ammunition, selected gems and jewellery, and products linked to copper and aluminium.

According to officials, this calibrated approach seeks to balance trade liberalisation with domestic industry protection, particularly in politically and economically sensitive segments.

Tariff Relief For Imports

India will eliminate tariffs on nearly 30 per cent of New Zealand’s tariff lines, including products such as wood, wool, sheep meat and raw hides. Duties on another 35.60 per cent of tariff lines will be phased out over three, five, seven and 10 years.

These include petroleum oils, malt extract, vegetable oils and selected machinery. New Zealand products set to receive tariff concessions also include wine, pharmaceuticals, polymers, aluminium, and iron and steel goods.

Some products, including manuka honey, apples, kiwi fruit and albumin, will be covered under tariff rate quotas, allowing limited imports at lower duty rates.

Investment Clause Added

A key feature of the India-New Zealand FTA is a commitment to facilitate up to $20 billion in investment into India. Officials said the agreement also includes a rebalancing clause to maintain equilibrium if investment targets are not met.

The provision is seen as a safeguard aimed at ensuring that trade concessions remain aligned with investment outcomes. It also reflects India’s growing preference for linking market access with measurable capital commitments.

Trade Ties Expand

The agreement comes as both countries seek to expand a relatively modest trade relationship. In 2024, total bilateral trade in goods and services between India and New Zealand stood at $2.4 billion.

Trade officials have for years flagged untapped potential in sectors such as food processing, advanced manufacturing, clean energy and services. The latest move is expected to widen market access and create new channels for commercial engagement.

As per reports, both sides also see the agreement as part of a broader strategy to diversify trade partnerships amid shifting global supply chains and rising protectionism.

What Comes Next

The India-New Zealand FTA now moves to the implementation stage, where tariff schedules, customs procedures and compliance mechanisms will determine the pace of gains. Businesses in both countries are expected to closely track the rollout of sector-specific concessions.

For India, the agreement strengthens export access while shielding politically sensitive sectors. For New Zealand, it opens a large and growing market with phased entry across key product categories.

The Share Market ended with strong gains on Monday as benchmark indices rallied on broad-based buying led by IT and pharmaceutical stocks. The BSE Sensex climbed 639 points, or 0.83 per cent, to settle at 77,303, while the NSE Nifty advanced 194 points, or 0.81 per cent, to close at 24,092.

The rally came amid sustained buying across major sectors, helping domestic equities recover firmly by the closing bell. Market breadth remained positive, with 22 of the 30 Sensex stocks ending in the green.

IT, Pharma Lead

Buying in information technology and pharmaceutical counters drove the market higher through the session. Nifty Pharma emerged as the top sectoral gainer, rising 2.59 per cent, while Nifty IT gained 2.26 per cent.

Other sectoral indices also ended higher, reflecting broad participation in the rally. Nifty Media rose 2.38 per cent, Realty added 2.44 per cent, Healthcare climbed 2.41 per cent, and Consumer Durables gained 2.57 per cent. Metal, Auto and Oil & Gas indices also posted healthy gains. The sharp rise in defensive and export-oriented sectors indicated renewed investor confidence in select large-cap counters.

Broad-Based Buying Seen

The rally was not limited to one segment, as buying interest remained visible across sectors. FMCG, PSU Banks, Private Banks and Mid-Small Healthcare indices all closed in positive territory, though gains in banking remained measured.

Market participants tracked strong buying in heavyweight counters, which provided support to benchmark indices throughout the trading session. The gains also reflected improving sentiment in the broader Share Market amid steady institutional participation.

Sensex Stocks Advance

Among Sensex constituents, Sun Pharma emerged as the top gainer, surging 7.03 per cent. The stock led the pharma rally and significantly boosted index gains.

Other major gainers included Reliance Industries, Adani Ports, NTPC, Tech Mahindra, Mahindra & Mahindra, HCLTech, TCS, Tata Steel and Infosys. Gains were also seen in Kotak Mahindra Bank, Power Grid, Maruti Suzuki, SBI, Titan, Larsen & Toubro, ITC, HDFC Bank, Bharti Airtel, Bajaj Finance, Asian Paints and UltraTech Cement. The sharp rise in technology names such as Infosys, TCS and HCLTech provided strong momentum to the broader market.

Select Stocks Slip

Despite the overall positive close, a few frontline stocks ended lower. Axis Bank, Bharat Electronics, Trent, ICICI Bank, Eternal, Hindustan Unilever and Bajaj Finserv closed in the red.

Losses in select financial and consumer names capped the upside to some extent, though they did little to alter the market’s positive direction.

Market Sentiment Improves

The day’s rally pointed to improving investor sentiment, supported by strong sectoral participation and buying in index heavyweights. Analysts said gains in IT and pharma suggested investors were rotating into sectors seen as stable amid global uncertainty.

According to market watchers, defensive buying and selective accumulation in quality large-caps helped sustain momentum through the session. The move also reflected optimism around earnings resilience in sectors such as healthcare and technology.

This India News Update comes at a time when investors remain focused on earnings, global cues and institutional flows, all of which continue to guide short-term market direction.

Outlook For Investors

The near-term trend for the Share Market is expected to remain stock-specific, with earnings, global developments and foreign fund activity likely to shape sentiment in the coming sessions.

Analysts expect volatility to persist, but sustained buying in leadership sectors could continue to support the market at higher levels. Investors are likely to track earnings from heavyweight companies and sector-specific developments closely for fresh cues.

The JEE Advanced 2026 admit card is expected to be released shortly, with IIT Roorkee likely to activate the download link in the second week of May. Candidates who have qualified JEE Main and completed registration for the entrance test will be able to access their hall tickets online through the official website.

As per the latest update, no physical copy of the JEE Advanced 2026 admit card will be sent to candidates. Students must download the document online and carry a printed copy to the examination centre on the day of the test.

Official portal access

Candidates can download the JEE Advanced 2026 admit card by visiting the official website, jeeadv.ac.in, once the link is activated. The admit card will be available only in online mode and can be accessed using the JEE Main application number, date of birth and registered credentials.

Officials have advised students to avoid waiting until the last moment to download the document, as high traffic on the portal may lead to delays. Students should also keep a digital copy saved on their phone or email for backup.

Details to verify

After downloading the JEE Advanced 2026 admit card, candidates must check all details printed on it carefully. These include the candidate’s name, roll number, photograph, signature, category, exam date, reporting time and examination centre address.

The admit card will also carry important instructions related to the examination day. According to officials, any mismatch in personal details or exam centre information should be reported immediately through the official help channels to avoid problems on exam day.

Exam day rules

The JEE Advanced 2026 admit card remains the most important document for entry into the examination centre. No candidate will be allowed to enter the venue without a valid printed admit card and a prescribed photo identity proof.

Students have also been advised to read all instructions mentioned on the admit card before the exam. Reporting time, permitted items and conduct inside the exam hall will be governed strictly by the guidelines issued by the organising institute.

Exam scheduled May 17

JEE Advanced 2026 is scheduled to be conducted on May 17, 2026. The examination will be held for admission to undergraduate engineering programmes in the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), among the country’s most sought-after technical institutions.

The examination follows JEE Main and serves as the gateway for admission to IITs. Only candidates who qualified JEE Main and met the Advanced eligibility criteria were allowed to register for the second-stage entrance test.

Counselling after result

Following the examination and declaration of results, the admission process will move to the Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoSAA) counselling stage. Through this process, candidates will be considered for seats in IITs, NITs, IIITs and other government-funded technical institutions.

What students should do

Students should keep checking the official website regularly for the latest notice on admit card release and examination updates. Officials have advised candidates to verify login details in advance and ensure they have uninterrupted internet access while downloading the document.

With the examination now weeks away, candidates should focus on final preparation, document readiness and timely access to the JEE Advanced 2026 admit card.

Congress in West Bengal has entered the Assembly election battle with a cautious but calculated strategy, seeking to revive its shrinking political base while avoiding a direct confrontation with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress (TMC). The party’s approach reflects a delicate balancing act as it attempts to regain organisational relevance in the state without damaging broader opposition equations.

Limited Seat Focus

Congress is contesting 292 seats in West Bengal, but party leaders have made it clear that the campaign is not spread evenly across the state. Instead, the focus remains on a limited set of constituencies where the party believes it still has organisational presence, identifiable voter support and realistic electoral prospects.

According to party sources, Congress expects that even a modest seat tally, combined with an improved vote share, would help re-establish its political relevance in the state. The party has concentrated resources on select districts rather than pursuing an expansive state-wide campaign.

Core Congress Pockets

The party’s campaign has largely centred around Malda, Murshidabad, Kolkata, Hooghly, Raiganj, North Dinajpur and Birbhum. These regions have historically formed the backbone of Congress support in West Bengal and continue to offer some residual social and political capital.

Congress is particularly attempting to consolidate its traditional voter base among minorities and rural communities in these districts. Party strategists believe these constituencies offer the best chance to rebuild grassroots structures and recover lost political space, as per reports from state leaders.

Rahul’s Measured Messaging

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s campaign stops in West Bengal reflected this selective strategy. He addressed rallies in Srirampur, represented by state Congress president Subhankar Sarkar, and in Murshidabad, the home district of senior leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury.

His messaging remained measured. While Rahul Gandhi mentioned Mamata Banerjee only briefly, his speeches were largely directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The calibrated tone suggested Congress was attempting to protect its own leadership space in Bengal without escalating tensions with the TMC.

Avoiding Direct Clash

Congress has been notably restrained in constituencies where the principal contest is between the TMC and BJP. Party leaders appear reluctant to adopt an aggressive posture in these seats, mindful of the larger opposition landscape beyond West Bengal.

Sources indicated that Congress does not want its state-level campaign to undermine the possibility of future cooperation with the TMC at the national level. This explains the party’s selective aggression assertive where it sees room for revival, cautious where direct attacks could complicate national opposition politics.

Identity Crisis Persists

The strategy, however, carries clear risks. Congress faces a persistent identity challenge in West Bengal, where its political space has been squeezed by both the TMC and BJP over the past decade. By avoiding a sharper line against the ruling party, Congress risks appearing politically ambiguous to voters.

The central question before the electorate remains whether Congress is positioning itself as an independent challenger or as a tacit ally in the state’s larger anti-BJP framework. That lack of clarity could weaken the party’s attempt to rebuild an independent political identity, according to political observers.

What Lies Ahead

For Congress, the immediate objective in West Bengal is less about sweeping gains and more about organisational survival. The party is using this election to test whether its old support base can still be mobilised and whether selective interventions can translate into electoral relevance.

Its performance in these targeted pockets will determine whether Congress can rebuild a durable state unit or remain a marginal player in Bengal politics. For now, Congress in West Bengal is betting on restraint, regional strength and careful messaging to stay politically afloat in a complex electoral contest.

Himesh Reshammiya-led Badass Ravi Kumar, which struggled to attract audiences in cinemas in 2025, has staged an unexpected comeback on OTT. The musical action drama, dismissed as one of the year’s biggest box office failures after its theatrical release, has found a second life on JioHotstar, where it entered the platform’s trending list within days of release.

The film’s digital turnaround has once again highlighted how OTT platforms continue to reshape the commercial fate of films, especially titles that fail to perform in theatres but later connect with home audiences.

Weak Box Office Run

Released in cinemas on February 7, 2025, Badass Ravi Kumar arrived with moderate expectations and a familiar franchise link. The film serves as a spin-off to The Xpose, the 2014 musical thriller that introduced the character of Ravi Kumar.

Mounted on an estimated budget of ₹20 crore, the film failed to generate momentum at the domestic box office. As per trade reports, Badass Ravi Kumar closed its theatrical run with an India nett collection of around ₹13 crore, leaving it well short of recovery and placing it among the notable commercial disappointments of 2025.

Delayed Digital Release

Following its theatrical underperformance, the film’s OTT release was delayed for several months. According to reports, negotiations over digital rights and backend platform issues slowed the streaming rollout, keeping the title off digital platforms longer than expected.

The film eventually premiered on JioHotstar on April 18, 2026. Its arrival was low-key, but the response on streaming proved markedly different from its theatrical run.

Trending On JioHotstar

Soon after release, Badass Ravi Kumar began climbing JioHotstar’s trending chart, drawing attention from viewers who had skipped it in theatres. Its strong digital response has been driven largely by curiosity, repeat value and the film’s stylised action format, according to platform trends and audience response online.

The film’s entry into the trending list has also boosted conversation around its lead character, with viewers revisiting Himesh Reshammiya’s exaggerated screen persona and retro action treatment.

Audience Response Shifts

The OTT response suggests Badass Ravi Kumar found a more suitable audience outside theatres. Viewers on digital platforms appeared more receptive to its exaggerated action, musical treatment and self-aware mass appeal than cinema-goers were during its theatrical run.

Industry observers have noted that films with niche appeal or unconventional treatment often perform better in streaming ecosystems, where discovery is less dependent on opening-day numbers and more on audience curiosity and social media traction.

OTT Changes Film Fate

The performance of Badass Ravi Kumar adds to a growing list of films that underperformed in cinemas but found visibility after moving online. In recent years, several mid-budget films have seen renewed engagement on streaming platforms, where lower access barriers and flexible viewing habits often help overlooked titles gain traction.

For producers, this trend continues to strengthen the value of digital rights, especially for films that fail to recover costs through theatrical business alone. For platforms, such titles offer strong engagement potential, particularly when backed by meme value, nostalgia or cult appeal.

What Lies Ahead

The OTT success of Badass Ravi Kumar may not reverse its box office verdict, but it has changed the film’s post-release trajectory. Its digital performance has revived interest in the title and may improve its long-tail value across streaming and satellite markets.

For the industry, the film’s turnaround reinforces a growing reality: in the digital era, theatrical performance is no longer the sole measure of a film’s reach.

The Israel-Hezbollah conflict flared up again after Hezbollah launched a fresh drone strike targeting Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) personnel in southern Lebanon, according to reports emerging from the region. The attack, carried out using FPV (First Person View) drones, reportedly targeted Israeli troops during a medical evacuation operation near the border.

Visuals released by Hezbollah and circulated widely on social media showed Israeli soldiers moving injured personnel towards a helicopter when at least one drone approached the convoy at high speed. While the strike triggered panic among troops on the ground, the drone failed to hit its primary target, as per initial battlefield assessments.

Drone Targets Troops

Hezbollah claimed the attack was aimed at Israeli soldiers and military vehicles engaged in a CASEVAC, or casualty evacuation, mission in southern Lebanon. The group said the operation formed part of its ongoing response to Israeli military activity along the border.

According to footage released by Hezbollah’s media channels, one FPV drone flew dangerously close to Israeli troops and an evacuation helicopter before crashing nearby and exploding. Another drone was reportedly intercepted mid-air after Israeli forces opened fire.

Israeli military officials have not confirmed any fatalities from the strike. Early reports indicated that while the attack disrupted troop movement and forced immediate defensive action, no Israeli soldiers were killed in the incident.

Footage Shows Chaos

The released footage captured moments of confusion as Israeli soldiers scrambled for cover after spotting the incoming drone. Gunfire could be heard as troops attempted to shoot down the aerial threat while continuing evacuation efforts for wounded personnel.

Security analysts tracking the conflict said the footage underlined a growing battlefield trend in which low-cost attack drones are increasingly being used to harass troop positions and disrupt military logistics.

The incident has added to concerns over the expanding use of precision drone warfare in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, especially in high-risk frontline zones where troop movement remains vulnerable.

Hezbollah’s Drone Strategy

Hezbollah has steadily expanded its use of FPV drones in recent months, shifting from conventional rocket fire to smaller, more agile aerial attacks. Military observers say the tactic mirrors methods seen in the Russia-Ukraine war, where low-cost drones have altered frontline combat.

These drones are typically equipped with cameras and explosive payloads, allowing operators to guide them directly towards military targets. Hezbollah has repeatedly claimed such systems have been used to strike Israeli armour, troop carriers and forward operating positions. The latest strike reflects that evolving strategy, even though the drone appears to have missed its intended target.

Israeli Operations Continue

Despite the attempted strike, the IDF has continued operations in southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces remain engaged in cross-border military action against Hezbollah positions. Israeli officials have maintained that operations are aimed at degrading Hezbollah’s offensive capabilities near the frontier.

The latest exchange signals that neither side is stepping back. Cross-border fire, drone launches and missile exchanges have continued despite repeated international calls for de-escalation.

According to regional security reports, both sides have increasingly relied on drones for surveillance, targeting and tactical disruption, making aerial threats a central feature of the conflict.

Regional Tensions Rise

The renewed hostilities have raised concerns over a broader regional spillover, especially as tensions remain high across West Asia. Analysts say repeated exchanges between Israel and Hezbollah risk drawing the region into a wider conflict if strikes intensify further.

The growing use of drones has also shifted military calculations on both sides, with conventional troop movement becoming more exposed to fast-moving and hard-to-detect attacks.

What Happens Next

Military observers expect both Israel and Hezbollah to sustain pressure along the southern Lebanon front in the coming days. More drone interceptions, retaliatory strikes and tactical exchanges remain likely as both sides test each other’s battlefield response.

For now, the failed drone strike has reinforced one reality: the Israel-Hezbollah conflict is entering a more unpredictable phase, where low-cost drone warfare is shaping the next round of escalation.

The political standoff between Saurabh Bhardwaj and Raghav Chadha has intensified into one of the sharpest internal confrontations seen in the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), with the dispute now spilling beyond ideology into personal attacks. The latest flashpoint came after Bhardwaj accused Chadha of using the party’s political platform for personal advancement, including claiming that his marriage to actor Parineeti Chopra became possible only because he was made a Rajya Sabha MP.

The remarks mark a sharp escalation in the ongoing feud that began after Raghav Chadha publicly distanced himself from AAP and criticised the party’s internal functioning. The exchange has quickly become a major India News Update, drawing attention across political and social circles.

Chadha Breaks Silence

Raghav Chadha on Monday broke his silence through a video statement, defending his decision to part ways with the party he had served for over a decade. He said he had left behind a chartered accountancy career to help build AAP and spent 15 years working for the organisation.

In his statement, Chadha described the party’s internal environment as “toxic” and alleged that AAP had drifted away from its founding principles. He claimed the organisation had come under the influence of “corrupt elements” and said remaining in such a setup was no longer possible.

Chadha compared his decision to leaving a workplace where the environment had become unworkable, arguing that changing course was necessary when institutional values begin to erode.

Bhardwaj Hits Back

Saurabh Bhardwaj responded with a direct and aggressive rebuttal, rejecting Chadha’s comparison between politics and a corporate workplace. He said politics was rooted in ideology and public accountability, not professional convenience.

Bhardwaj accused Chadha of betraying the party that gave him political recognition and alleged that his exit was part of a larger effort to weaken AAP from within. According to party leaders, Chadha’s move has triggered concern within the organisation over possible defections and political realignment.

In his strongest remark, Bhardwaj said Chadha’s political relevance and social visibility were built entirely through AAP, adding that even his marriage had been made possible because of the stature he gained as a Rajya Sabha member.

Marriage Remark Sparks Debate

Bhardwaj’s comments on Chadha’s marriage to Parineeti Chopra have drawn immediate political and social attention. The couple married in September 2023 in a high-profile ceremony that had attracted wide public and media coverage.

The reference to Chadha’s personal life has widened the controversy, with critics questioning whether private relationships should be dragged into political disputes. The remark has also triggered fresh debate on social media, where supporters and critics of both leaders have sharply reacted.

As per reports, the personal nature of the attack has made the fallout more politically sensitive, especially for a party that has often projected itself as distinct from conventional personality-driven politics.

Crisis Inside AAP

The public fallout reflects a deeper internal crisis within AAP, which is facing one of its most serious organisational challenges since its rise as a national political force. The current conflict appears to stem from both ideological disagreements and leadership distrust.

Party insiders indicated that Chadha’s criticism has been viewed by sections of the leadership as more than a resignation, with some interpreting it as an attempt to damage the party’s internal cohesion. AAP leaders have also alleged that Chadha was working to destabilise the organisation at a critical political moment. That charge has not been independently verified, but it has become central to the party’s public response.

Political Stakes Rise

The escalating feud comes at a sensitive time for AAP, which is trying to retain its national relevance amid pressure from both the BJP and Congress. A prolonged public split could affect cadre morale, voter confidence and the party’s ability to maintain a coherent national message.

For Chadha, the fallout also carries political risk. Once seen as one of AAP’s most visible national faces, his public break with the party has now turned into a credibility battle over loyalty, ambition and political intent.

The Barmer-Rishikesh Express, one of the oldest long-distance trains operated under North Western Railway, is facing severe passenger pressure as demand continues to outstrip capacity on the 48-year-old route. The train, which connects western Rajasthan to Uttarakhand, has emerged as the primary rail link for thousands of passengers from Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab, especially for religious travel and long-distance journeys.

With no parallel service introduced on the route, the Barmer-Rishikesh Express is now operating under heavy strain, leaving passengers to contend with long waiting lists and overcrowded coaches.

Reservations Under Stress

According to current booking trends, reservations on the Barmer-Rishikesh Express remain full for nearly two months ahead. Railway booking data shows sleeper class waiting lists ranging between 120 and 180 on most dates between late April and June, while third AC waiting lists remain between 40 and 70.

The pressure is more severe in general coaches, where passengers often travel standing for long hours. Many are forced to sit near toilets or on coach entry steps due to a lack of space, highlighting the growing mismatch between demand and available capacity.

Three States Depend

The train serves as a crucial transport link for passengers from Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab, many of whom rely on it for pilgrimages to Haridwar and Rishikesh. It is widely used by devotees travelling for Ganga snan, temple visits and ritual ceremonies, including pind daan and asthi visarjan.

With no additional train introduced on the sector, the entire passenger load from these regions continues to fall on a single service. Railway users and local passenger groups say the route has remained underserved despite sustained demand over several years.

A 48-Year Legacy

The Barmer-Rishikesh Express began operations in 1978 and has remained one of the most significant long-distance trains for northern and western India. It was later operated as the Barmer-Haridwar-Kalka Link Express, with linked coaches for Chandigarh and Kalka.

The train used to split at Ambala, allowing passengers direct access to Chandigarh and onward connectivity. After the Kalka link was withdrawn following the Covid-19 period, the entire passenger flow was diverted to the Barmer-Rishikesh section, significantly increasing the load on the existing service.

Reserved Seats Affected

Passengers say overcrowding has now begun affecting even reserved classes. According to regular travellers, sleeper and AC coaches often become congested after the train enters Punjab, with unreserved passengers boarding despite confirmed reservations.

This has led to frequent complaints from passengers who, despite booking confirmed seats well in advance, struggle to access their berths. Railway users say the crowding has made reserved travel increasingly difficult and uncomfortable, particularly during the summer and festive rush.

Railway Cites Constraints

Railway officials have acknowledged the demand pressure but cited operational limitations. Bhupesh Yadav, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Bikaner division, said adding more coaches to the existing train is not feasible at present because the platform at Rishikesh can accommodate only 16 coaches.

He said a proposal would be sent to North Western Railway headquarters for introducing a new train between Bikaner and Haridwar to ease pressure on the route.

Demand For Relief

Passenger groups have renewed their demand for an additional train, arguing that a fresh service is the only practical solution to ease congestion on the Barmer-Rishikesh Express. Lakshman Sharma of the Citizen Struggle Committee for Rail, Suratgarh, said passengers are being forced to travel in extremely difficult conditions because of limited capacity and the absence of a second train. The demand is likely to gain traction as summer travel peaks and religious movement increases further.

MP Weather conditions remained harsh across Madhya Pradesh on Monday as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a heatwave alert for 25 districts, warning of intense daytime temperatures and continued discomfort through the week. Several districts have already recorded temperatures above 45 degrees Celsius, marking one of the harshest summer phases of the season.

According to officials, the heatwave has affected both daytime and night-time conditions, with residents facing prolonged exposure to high temperatures and little relief after sunset.

temperature crosses 45°C

Khajuraho recorded a maximum temperature of 45 degrees Celsius, while Narmadapuram, Nowgong and Sagar reported temperatures above 44 degrees Celsius. Bhopal touched 43 degrees Celsius, adding to concerns over sustained heat exposure in urban centres.

The rising temperature has pushed several parts of the state into severe heatwave conditions for the first time this season. In Indore, Ujjain and Bhopal, night temperatures remained close to 28 degrees Celsius, making conditions difficult even after dark.

Weather officials said the absence of night-time cooling has worsened the impact of the heatwave, especially in densely populated cities.

25 districts on alert

The IMD has warned that heatwave conditions are likely to persist from Monday to Wednesday across nearly half of Madhya Pradesh. Districts including Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, Dhar, Dewas, Shajapur, Rajgarh, Sehore, Vidisha and Narmadapuram remain under heatwave alert.

Officials have advised people to avoid stepping out during afternoon hours unless necessary. The warning applies to both urban and rural areas where exposure to hot winds may pose health risks, especially for children, senior citizens and outdoor workers.

As per Government Updates issued by weather authorities, residents have been urged to stay hydrated and avoid direct exposure during peak daytime hours.

Rain may raise humidity

The IMD has forecast light rain and thunderstorm activity in parts of the state over the next three to four days. However, meteorologists have said the change is unlikely to bring significant relief.

IMD scientist Uma Shankar Das said temperatures may drop by two to three degrees after the next two days, which could reduce heatwave intensity. However, he noted that the incoming moisture may lead to increased humidity, making conditions more uncomfortable.

According to weather experts, when temperatures rise beyond 43 degrees Celsius, moisture in the atmosphere becomes active and starts aiding cloud formation. This can trigger isolated rainfall and thunder activity, but also raises humidity levels.

Why nights stay warmer

Meteorologists said rising urbanisation has contributed to unusually warm nights across major cities in Madhya Pradesh. Concrete roads, flyovers and buildings absorb heat through the day and release it slowly after sunset, keeping temperatures elevated.

Weather scientist HS Pandey said cloud cover at night further traps heat near the surface, preventing normal cooling. This has led to warmer nights in cities and extended discomfort for residents.

The combination of retained surface heat and limited night-time cooling has made the present weather spell more intense than usual.

Systems driving weather

Meteorologists attributed the changing weather pattern to moisture inflow from the Arabian Sea and a cyclonic circulation over eastern Uttar Pradesh. Another wind circulation has developed over central Madhya Pradesh at an altitude of around 1.5 km.

This system is creating conditions for afternoon cloud formation and isolated thunder activity in parts of the state. However, experts said these developments are more likely to increase humidity than provide sustained cooling.

The evolving pattern has become a Public Interest Story as rising heat and changing weather continue to affect daily life, health and mobility across the state.

Relief still limited

The IMD has indicated that while a marginal drop in temperature is likely later this week, broad relief from severe summer conditions remains unlikely in the immediate term. Weather officials said MP Weather will stay volatile, with heatwave conditions continuing in several districts even as scattered rain activity develops.