Today in History (May 6th,1937)
The German airship Hindenburg caught fire and was destroyed while attempting to land at Lakehurst, New Jersey, during its first transatlantic flight of the year. The disaster occurred suddenly and engulfed the dirigible in flames, leading to the deaths of 36 out of the 97 people on board. The tragic event shocked the world and marked the end of the era of passenger-carrying airships, becoming one of history’s most infamous aviation disasters.
Summary of Today’s News
Centre directs States to hold ‘civil defence’ drills.
In response to evolving geopolitical tensions, the Union Home Ministry has directed states to conduct civil defence drills in 244 districts, reaching down to villages. These exercises, scheduled from Wednesday to Friday, involve air-raid warnings, blackout protocols, evacuations, and bunker readiness. States must coordinate with the Indian Air Force, activate control rooms, and train civilians. Around 4 lakh Civil Defence volunteers will participate. The move highlights civil defence as a crucial element of India’s passive defence strategy.
Putin dials Modi, gives full support to ‘fight against terror’
On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, strongly condemning the terror attack in Pahalgam. He expressed condolences for the innocent lives lost and offered full support to India in its fight against terrorism. Putin emphasized that the attackers and their supporters must face justice. Both leaders called for an uncompromising fight against terrorism. Russia highlighted the strong, strategic, and growing partnership between India and Russia, unaffected by external pressures.
Israel Cabinet approves plan for Gaza ‘conquest’ with expansion of military.
Israel’s security Cabinet has approved expanding military operations in Gaza, including plans to “conquer” and hold the territory, with tens of thousands of reservists called up. The UN and aid agencies warned of a worsening humanitarian crisis due to a two-month blockade. The plan, approved by the Cabinet, includes relocating Gaza’s population for safety and launching strong strikes against Hamas. The goal is to defeat Hamas and secure hostages’ release. Gaza’s Health Ministry reports 52,535 deaths, mostly women and children.
Improve conviction rate in heinous crime cases: Amit Shah to Delhi Police.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah directed Delhi Police to improve conviction rates in heinous crimes by 20%. This was discussed in a review meeting on the implementation of new criminal laws, including Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam. Shah emphasized accountability and monitoring the filing of chargesheets within 60–90 days. He also reviewed provisions related to police, prisons, courts, prosecution, and forensics, urging quicker appointments in the Directorate of Prosecution. The meeting was attended by key officials.
