Stories from India

Counting has commenced at 62 centers across Gahati with high security measures in place. Over 4.58 lakh voters participated in this election cycle. The state consists of 188 general constituencies, 44 SC constituencies, and 2 SC constituencies.

The Maharashtra State Agricultural Marketing Federation and NAFED have begun purchasing green gram at a rate of 5,875 rupees per quintal. The procurement process is expected to continue until April 31.

Nomination papers for elections in 51 urban bodies across the state will be scrutinized today. According to the Election Commission, 1426 candidates have filed nominations for these elections.

A fire in a multi-story building in the Vile Parle East area of Deliy City spread rapidly while residents slept. The blaze destroyed at least six apartments. Deliy firefighters responded with 14 fire trucks and discovered six bodies in different areas of the building.

Tourists visiting the Kishangarh marble dump in Rajasthan, India, are facing dust exposure due to a lack of state guidelines and safety precautions. Visitors are not provided with masks or warning signs despite fine dust being blown by the wind.

Air India is facing a visible fuel crisis, according to reports from RFI Afrique and RFI Monde. The airline is currently managing shortages as the situation develops. The airline is reportedly planning measures to address the lack of fuel.

The Federation of Indian Airlines has requested emergency financial support and tax reductions following a 60% surge in fuel costs over the last 24 hours. The conflict has led to a doubling of jet fuel costs. This move is a common strategy to offset increased fuel prices. South Korean carriers have also significantly raised their May fuel surcharges. This action is a response to rising aviation fuel costs, which constitute a major expense for airlines and a key factor in ticket pricing. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is cited as a potential factor contributing to these price hikes. Rising fuel costs due to ongoing Middle East geopolitical conflicts are prompting airlines to increase fuel surcharges. Aviation fuel shortages are causing disruptions for Indian airlines. Airline industry analyst Henry Hartfeld noted that taxpayers will ultimately bear these costs.

Kosta Bakshi, a candidate for Narendra Modi's BJP, is campaigning in Kolkata for the West Bengal assembly elections. Bakshi is visiting residents door-to-door wearing traditional white and red attire while carrying a fish. The campaign approach focuses on visual cues and personal connection rather than policy speeches. A political leader campaigning in Kolkata, West Bengal, called recent claims regarding the region a lie. The leader stated that fish and rice are integral parts of Bengal's culture that will never end. The remarks were made during a campaign event in the eastern Indian city. The leader used the cultural significance of fish to address economic and geographic anxieties in the region. Rakesh Singh, a candidate for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), staged a spectacle in the port area of Kolkata.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced the construction of seven new corridors under Metro Phase 5B during the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation's 32nd Foundation Day. The new corridors will have a combined length of 97,000.158 km and include 65 new stations.

The Gujarat Local Body Election 2026 dates have been announced, with voting scheduled for April 26. Local authorities are preparing for the upcoming electoral process in the region. The announcement confirms the timeline for the upcoming municipal and local government polls in the region. The announcement follows preparations by the OBC Commission.