Fri May 02 01:08:55 UTC 2025: ## India’s Response to Pahalgam Attack Dominates Headlines Amidst Other Key Developments

**New Delhi, May 2, 2025** – India’s reaction to the recent Pahalgam terror attack dominated national headlines yesterday, with strong condemnation from top officials and a closure of the Attari-Wagah border crossing. Union Home Minister Amit Shah vowed that those responsible would not be spared, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh directly implicated Pakistan in supporting terrorist organizations. The U.S. expressed solidarity with India, reiterating its support for India’s right to self-defense. The attack’s impact was deeply felt personally by the family of Naval officer Lt. Vinay Narwal, who was killed in the attack. His wife and mother paid tribute at a blood donation camp.

Other significant news included:

* **Caste Census:** Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy announced amendments to the Census Act to facilitate the enumeration of caste in the 2026 census. This announcement prompted the Congress party to demand the removal of the 50% reservation cap through a constitutional amendment.

* **Economic Indicators:** India’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection reached a record high of ₹2.37 lakh crore in April, signaling robust economic activity.

* **Electoral Reform:** The Election Commission will now electronically obtain death registration data to improve the accuracy of electoral rolls.

* **International Affairs:** The ongoing conflict in Ukraine saw further casualties from drone and missile strikes. A new agreement between Ukraine and the U.S. grants the latter access to Ukraine’s mineral resources. Meanwhile, Sudan’s conflict continues, with shelling targeting the presidential palace in Khartoum.

* **Other News:** The Mumbai Indians won the IPL match against Rajasthan Royals. Singer Sonu Nigam sparked controversy following an incident at a concert in Bengaluru. The J&K Waqf Board honored the brother of a victim of the Pahalgam attack with a job offer. The NHRC urged 11 states to take preemptive measures against heatwave-related deaths.

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