Times of India

A cruise boat operated by the Madhya Pradesh tourism department capsized in Bargi Dam near Jabalpur, resulting in at least nine deaths. The vessel, carrying 43 passengers, overturned during a sudden, severe storm with high winds. Survivors allege life jackets were distributed only after the boat began sinking, raising questions about safety protocols.

Simone Biles opens up about her mental health struggles following the Tokyo Olympics, reflecting on the pressure that led her to step away from competition. In a recent interview, the Olympic champion shared how the experience changed her perspective on strength and vulnerability. Two years later, Biles continues to focus on her well-being while keeping her future in gymnastics open, including a possible return for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

Baramati MP Supriya Sule announced she will not contest elections against any Pawar family member in the future, opting for a different constituency if necessary. Her sister-in-law, Sunetra Pawar, welcomed the decision, emphasizing the importance of separating politics and family relations. This comes after two instances of Pawar family members contesting against each other.

Russia continues to be India's top crude oil supplier in April, despite a dip in shipments. While Saudi Arabia and UAE increased their supplies, India resumed imports from Iran and Venezuela to compensate for disruptions in West Asian supplies. LPG imports saw a significant fall, with domestic production bridging the gap.

Pilgrims can embark on the sacred Kailash Manasarovar Yatra again in 2026, with the Ministry of External Affairs coordinating with China. The spiritual journey, resuming for the second year, will see 20 batches of 50 individuals each travel via Uttarakhand or Sikkim. Selection will be computer-generated and gender-balanced, with registration now open.

Dhaka summoned India's acting envoy to protest Assam CM's remarks calling apprehended foreigners 'rude people' and 'infiltrators'. Bangladesh conveyed that such disparaging comments strain bilateral ties and stressed the need for restraint on sensitive issues. The ministry emphasized that public statements capable of straining relations are counterproductive.

Ahead of West Bengal's vote counting, the Election Commission is deploying approximately 70,000 central forces to maintain order, especially in areas prone to post-poll violence. Control rooms will monitor counting day, May 4, for immediate action against any disturbances. Strict legal action awaits those involved in violence, aiming to prevent a repeat of the 2021 incidents.

Tensions flared at Kolkata's counting centres as Trinamool Congress alleged EVM tampering, citing CCTV footage. Election officials refuted claims, assuring three-tier security and authorized personnel. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged a 24/7 vigil at strongrooms, while clashes erupted between TMC and BJP workers. Officials clarified that individuals seen were authorized representatives segregating postal ballots.

Maria Sharapova, a tennis icon, amassed an estimated $180 million net worth primarily through lucrative endorsement deals and her candy brand, Sugarpova. Her remarkable career included winning all four Grand Slams and reaching world No. 1. After retiring in 2020, she continues to thrive in business and investments, maintaining her global recognition.

'Parents' Word Will Be Final On 30-Week MTP'

Defence minister Rajnath Singh asserted that India's 'Operation Sindoor' sent a strong global message, demonstrating a shift from mere diplomatic statements to powerful deterrence against terror. He identified Pakistan as the epicentre of international terrorism, emphasizing the need to address its ideological roots.

Over 500 officers stormed an "Islamic sect" in Crewe, arresting 10 members, including their spiritual leader, for serious crimes like rape, sexual assault, and human trafficking. The raid targeted the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light headquarters. Police are investigating allegations of forced marriage and slavery reported by a former member.

J&K Police have filed an FIR against individuals for promoting separatist ideology online after PDP's Iltija Mufti shared a video of late leader Syed Ali Geelani discussing the importance of Urdu. The police stated the content aimed to incite unlawful activities and undermine India's integrity. This action follows Mufti's protest against removing Urdu as a mandatory language.

A new 20-coach Vande Bharat Express now connects Jammu and Srinagar directly, significantly cutting travel time to five hours. This direct rail link, a first for the two cities, will operate six days a week starting May 2.

Srinagar's agricultural university has welcomed Swiss Saanen goats, sparking immense interest for their high milk yield with less feed. These docile animals, capable of producing five to six litres daily, are being studied for their adaptability to Kashmir's climate and potential for crossbreeding with local breeds. Researchers believe they could revolutionize dairy farming, even for urban households.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited a strong room, alleging EVM manipulation and obstruction by Central forces. She vowed to fight "life and death" against alleged bias by the Election Commission, despite exit polls favouring the BJP. The state saw record voter turnout amidst political tensions.

Celeste Rivas Hernandez's death certificate has been updated, now stating her pregnancy status in the year prior to her death is unknown, a change from previous reports. The document also confirms her cause of death as "multiple penetrating injuries" and manner as "homicide," with other details like the exact injury circumstances now listed as unknown.

A sudden storm capsized a cruise boat on Jabalpur's Bargi Dam reservoir, claiming four lives and leaving 17 missing. The vessel, carrying 43 people, was caught in 60-70 kmph winds. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with survivors alleging delayed life jacket distribution amid the chaos. An inquiry has been ordered.

US President Donald Trump announced the removal of tariffs and restrictions on whiskey trade between Scotland and Kentucky. This decision, influenced by the recent visit of King Charles and Queen Camilla, aims to bolster long-standing trade ties, particularly concerning wooden barrel exchanges.

The USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group is heading home from the Middle East after an extended 10-month deployment, reducing US naval power amid ongoing Iran tensions. This withdrawal, despite stalled diplomatic efforts and continued blockade enforcement, marks the longest deployment for a modern US carrier, raising concerns about crew and vessel readiness.