Union road transport secretary V Umashankar highlighted concerns about compromised quality in highway development, emphasizing the need for durable roads requiring minimal maintenance. Minister Nitin Gadkari acknowledged public criticism regarding poor highway quality, while expressing optimism about achieving 100 km daily construction target.

The Supreme Court has affirmed the use of Urdu on the signboard of Patur Municipal Council in Maharashtra, emphasizing that language should not be a cause of division. The court highlighted Urdu's Indian origin and its significance as a language of communication and culture, dispelling misconceptions about it being foreign.

India is expected to receive above-normal southwest monsoon rainfall this year, according to the IMD's forecast. This is crucial for agriculture, boosting Kharif crops and the rural economy. While some regions may experience below-normal rainfall, most of the country, including the monsoon core zone, is likely to receive ample precipitation, potentially exceeding 91 cm.

S. Jaishankar criticized Pakistan's role in promoting terrorism, highlighting their double-dealing in Afghanistan and persistent «bad habits.» He emphasized that the 2008 Mumbai attacks marked a turning point in India-Pakistan relations, signaling a shift in India's tolerance. Jaishankar also linked national progress to the strength and quality of a nation's universities.

US-China relations face a potential breakdown. Attention shifts to India as a possible replacement. China directs airlines to halt Boeing orders. This move aims to boost domestic aircraft manufacturing. The US President's tariff policies face criticism. Experts question if the US has overplayed its hand. India is seen as a potential beneficiary of the trade war.

India's government has firmly dismissed Pakistan's criticism of the Waqf Amendment Act as unfounded and biased, asserting that Pakistan lacks the authority to comment on India's internal affairs. The external affairs ministry highlighted Pakistan's poor treatment of minorities and advised them to address their own issues instead of lecturing others.

US President Donald Trump regards Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a friend, according to US State Department spokesperson Margaret MacLeod. She highlighted the «joint interests» between India and the US, emphasizing collaboration on counter-terrorism, advanced technologies, and increased business opportunities.

The Enforcement Directorate has filed a chargesheet against Congress leaders Sonia and Rahul Gandhi in the National Herald case, prompting a sharp reaction from the party, which called it a «state-sponsored crime.» In other news, Assam has made Assamese the compulsory official language for government work, while India leads global market recovery after rebounding from Trump's tariff shock.

Robert Vadra faces renewed scrutiny from the Enforcement Directorate. He has been summoned for questioning in connection to a money laundering probe related to a land deal. Vadra's company is under investigation for a land purchase and subsequent agreement with DLF. Vadra alleges political vendetta and asserts his cooperation with the investigation.

The NHRC has taken cognizance of the communal violence in Murshidabad during anti-Waqf protests, which resulted in three deaths. An on-spot inquiry will be conducted, and a report is expected within three weeks. West Bengal Police have arrested two brothers for their alleged involvement in the killing of a father and son, bringing the total arrests to 221.

Hemant Soren has been elected as the new president of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), succeeding his father Shibu Soren, who now holds the title of 'Founder Patron'. This decision was made during the party's 13th 'Mahaadhiveshan'. The JMM, a key member of the Congress-led INDIA bloc, leads the ruling coalition in Jharkhand.

Assam has mandated Assamese as the compulsory official language for all government communications, including notifications and orders, as announced by chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Bengali and Bodo will be used in the BTR and Barak Valley districts, respectively. English will remain for communication with the central government, but in case of interpretation differences, the English version will prevail.

India and the United States are commencing discussions this week for a Bilateral Trade Agreement, starting virtually before an in-person meeting in May. This follows Prime Minister Modi and President Trump's agreement to strengthen ties, aiming to finalize the trade deal by fall. Both nations seek to expand bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030.

The India Meteorological Department forecasts above-normal rainfall for India during the June-to-September monsoon season, estimating 105% of the long-period average. El Nino conditions, typically linked to reduced rainfall, are not expected. This prediction is vital for India's agriculture, which supports a significant portion of the population and contributes substantially to the GDP.

India aims for a beneficial bilateral trade agreement with the United States, following the finalization of terms for the initial phase. Both nations seek to elevate bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030, targeting completion of the first phase by year-end. Trade liberalization will address both tariff and non-tariff barriers.

Following violent clashes in Murshidabad, West Bengal, triggered by protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act, displaced families recount harrowing experiences of destruction and fear. Homes and businesses were attacked, leaving several dead and hundreds homeless, now seeking refuge in relief camps. Security forces have been deployed, and investigations are underway to restore peace and provide support to the affected communities.

Telangana CM Revanth Reddy addressed the «forest encroachment» controversy, accusing the opposition of spreading propaganda using AI regarding the HCU land allegations. PM Modi criticized the Congress government for attempting to «bulldoze forests,» prompting a strong rebuttal from the Congress, highlighting Modi's own record on environmental clearances and tree felling.

The Supreme Court has overturned the Allahabad High Court's bail order for three individuals accused of child trafficking, criticizing both the court and the Uttar Pradesh government for negligence. The court highlighted the need for parental vigilance and directed state governments and high courts to expedite child trafficking case trials.

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath criticized West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee for her alleged inaction regarding the Murshidabad violence, accusing her of enabling rioters under the guise of secularism. He also attacked Congress and Samajwadi Party for their silence on the issue, deeming them a burden on India.

The Supreme Court has extended Puja Khedkar's protection from arrest until April 21. Khedkar is accused of cheating and misrepresenting information to avail OBC and disability quota benefits in the civil services exam. The Delhi government seeks her custodial interrogation to investigate a fake disability certificate scam. The court is reviewing her rejoinder to the Delhi government's reply.

The Supreme Court has cautioned judges against making inappropriate remarks in sexual violence cases, specifically addressing comments made by the Allahabad High Court that blamed a woman for inviting the alleged rape. This follows the Supreme Court's intervention in another Allahabad High Court case where the court diminished the severity of sexual assault against a child.

Violence erupted in Bengal over the new waqf law, with Bhangar witnessing intense clashes where mobs attacked police, leaving 16 officers injured. The unrest, triggered by police preventing an ISF rally, contrasted with a crackdown in Murshidabad, resulting in numerous arrests and internet suspensions.

Karnataka's potential increase in caste-based reservations faces legal challenges, mirroring the fate of similar laws in other states. While the Supreme Court deemed the 50% quota cap not entirely inflexible, it primarily applies to SC/ST/OBC reservations.

Karnataka's government faces internal pressure following the leak of a caste census report. Vokkaliga and Lingayat leaders are contesting the population estimates, claiming higher numbers. Deputy CM DK Shivakumar convened a meeting with Vokkaliga legislators to address their concerns. The leaked report suggests a 10.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a gathering in Hisar on Ambedkar's birth anniversary, strongly criticized the Congress party for allegedly disrespecting Dr. B.R. Ambedkar during his lifetime and attempting to erase his legacy. Modi highlighted development initiatives under the BJP government, contrasting them with the performance of Congress-led administrations.

Justice B.R. Gavai emphasized the Constitution's pivotal role in maintaining India's unity and stability over the past 75 years, despite challenges. He lauded B.R. Ambedkar's contribution to uplifting marginalized communities, citing President Droupadi Murmu and PM Narendra Modi as examples.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has branded the BJP-RSS as «enemies» of Ambedkar, alleging they only offer lip service for political gain. Kharge claimed Ambedkar blamed V.D. Savarkar for his 1952 election defeat and urged PM Modi to read Ambedkar's letter detailing this.

India's political spectrum united to honor B.R. Ambedkar on his 135th birth anniversary, solidifying his position as a universally respected figure. Leaders like PM Modi and Sonia Gandhi paid floral tributes, mirroring celebrations by Ambedkar's followers.