February 5, 2026

Himachal Pradesh Bans Mobile Phones in Schools from March 1 with Fines, Confiscations

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced a complete mobile phone ban in all schools starting March 1, 2026. Students caught with phones will face a ₹500 fine and device confiscation. The move aims to improve student focus and education quality.

February 5, 2026

Kerala’s NH 66 Six-Laning Nears Completion with Quality Checks Underway

Kerala’s NH 66 widening project is almost done with 492.64 km now six-laned. Defects found triggered expert inspections and quality reviews by NHAI and state officials.

February 5, 2026

UPSC Bars IAS, IFS Officers from CSE 2026; Prelims on May 24

UPSC rules bar current IAS and IFS officers from taking the Civil Services Exam 2026. SC/ST candidates get unlimited attempts. Prelims set for May 24 across 83 cities.

February 5, 2026

PAC Urges Partial Refund on RAC Tickets, Calls for Review of Indian Railways' Superfast Train Speeds

The Public Accounts Committee says charging full fare for RAC tickets without full berths is unjustified. It also calls to raise Superfast train speed limits and improve punctuality by 2030.

February 5, 2026

Inquiry Finds Life Could Have Been Saved in 2021 Channel Mass Drowning

A public inquiry blames systemic failings and coastguard staff shortages for the deaths of 33 people in the worst small boat disaster in the Channel. Inadequate life jackets and an overwhelmed rescue service made the tragedy worse.