A UK passenger aboard a Boeing 787 flight from Manchester to Goa was shocked to see silver tape on the wing of the aircraft. David Parker, 62, observed the tape peeling off mid-flight. Boeing clarified that the material was "speed tape," assuring its safety and stating it doesn't compromise structural integrity. The incident follows recent concerns over Boeing aircraft, including a door panel blowing off a 737 MAX 9 jet last month. The National Transportation Safety Board reported missing bolts on the Alaska Airlines-operated plane. Boeing is addressing paint adhesion issues on some 787s.

A minor earthquake measuring 3.2 on the Richter scale struck Sonbhadra district in Uttar Pradesh on Thursday. The seismic event occurred at 1:24 pm with its epicentre located at coordinates 24.22 latitude and 82.92 longitude, at a depth of 10 kilometers, according to the National Center for Seismology (NCS). While there were no immediate reports of injuries or major damage to infrastructure, the tremor prompted brief concern among residents. The NCS reassured the public via social media, confirming the earthquake's details and urging vigilance.

Several schools in Chennai received bomb threat emails on Thursday, prompting police response and evacuations. Students were sent home with parents as police, accompanied by bomb disposal squads, conducted anti-sabotage checks. Authorities urge calm as investigations to identify the sender are underway. Chennai Public School in DAV Gopalapuram and St. Mary’s School, Parrys, were among those targeted. The threats highlight security concerns in educational institutions, emphasizing the need for vigilance and swift action by law enforcement agencies.          

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed Hamas's proposed ceasefire terms, asserting the possibility of "total victory" in Gaza within months. Rejecting negotiations with Hamas, Netanyahu labeled their terms as "bizarre." Despite international efforts for a ceasefire deal, including mediation by Egypt and Qatar, tensions persist. Hamas's counter-offer included prisoner exchanges and humanitarian aid provisions. Netanyahu's stance underscores the discord between Israeli and US visions for Gaza's future, with Washington advocating for a Palestinian state. The rejection raises concerns for ongoing hostage situations and humanitarian crises in the conflict-ridden region.

Tragedy struck as a section of Gokulpuri metro station collapsed, claiming the life of a 53-year-old man and injuring four others in Delhi. The deceased, Vinod Kumar, hailed from Karawal Nagar. Emergency services rushed to the scene after receiving a distress call, with six fire tenders deployed to aid in rescue efforts. Two bikes and two scooters were damaged in the incident. Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Joy Tirkey confirmed the incident, stating that the collapse occurred around 10am. The station has been closed to the public as authorities investigate the cause of the collapse.          

Polls opened in Pakistan amidst heightened security measures following two bomb blasts at election offices in Balochistan province, killing at least 30 people. Phone services, including mobile internet, were suspended for security reasons. The attacks, claimed by Islamic State, targeted an independent candidate's office in Pishin and an ultra-conservative party's office in Qilla Saifullah. Despite ongoing militant threats, elections proceeded, with over 80% of polling stations in Balochistan deemed "sensitive." Leaders like Nawaz Sharif condemned the blasts, emphasizing resilience. The bombings underscore the challenges of maintaining security and stability in Pakistan amid militant activity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's dedication, recalling an instance where Singh "worked even in a wheelchair" during a voting session. Speaking in the Rajya Sabha during the farewell of retiring members, PM Modi emphasized Singh's commitment to his duties. The Prime Minister described Singh's act as exemplary, showcasing a member's alertness towards responsibilities. The retiring Rajya Sabha members will be bid farewell at Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar's residence in Delhi. Earlier, they participated in a group photo at Rashtrapati Bhavan, with a farewell function scheduled later in the day at the chairman's residence.

Prince Harry's 45-minute discussion with his father, King Charles, who is battling cancer, offers a glimmer of optimism for their strained relationship. Following his return to the UK upon hearing the news, Harry engaged in the heartfelt conversation, signaling a potential reconciliation. While the content of their meeting remains undisclosed, observers view it as a positive step forward. King Charles, accompanied by Queen Camilla, appeared cheerful after the encounter, with insiders noting his optimistic outlook despite his medical condition. The Palace confirmed the King's cancer diagnosis and expressed gratitude for the medical team's intervention, emphasizing his commitment to public service amidst treatment.

Budget airline IndiGo faces criticism after Shaadi.com CEO Anupam Mittal slammed the carrier for its "inhumane" treatment of passengers. Mittal revealed significant delays on two flights, alleging passengers were kept waiting on the tarmac to cut costs and denied refunds. IndiGo apologized, attributing a 30-minute delay to traffic congestion and a two-hour delay to a medical emergency. The airline assured it values passengers' time and understands the impact of such delays on travel plans. Despite the apology, the incident adds to a surge in complaints against IndiGo, highlighting ongoing challenges for the carrier in maintaining customer satisfaction.

A significant traffic disruption unfolded at the Delhi-Noida border as farmers from Noida and Greater Noida embarked on a protest march towards Parliament. Commuters faced extensive delays as two-wheelers and four-wheelers became stranded at Sarita Vihar, with heavy congestion extending along the Delhi-Noida route. In response, authorities imposed Section 144 and sealed all borders for 24 hours. DIG, Addl. CP (L&O), Shivhari Meena assured heightened security measures and ongoing dialogue with the protesting farmers. Since December 2023, farmers have been advocating for increased compensation and developed plots for land acquired by local authorities.