Conservative Friedrich Merz unexpectedly falls short of the numbers needed to become chancellor. 

​Conservative Friedrich Merz unexpectedly falls short of the numbers needed to become chancellor.  

Following the Pahalgam terror attack and rising security concerns, the ministry of home affairs will conduct a nationwide civil defence mock drill across 244 districts on May 7. The exercise aims to enhance emergency preparedness and public safety mechanisms by training civilians and testing critical infrastructure. Union home secretary Govind Mohan will review preparations with key officials.

The Indian Army apprehended a Pakistani national near the Line of Control in the Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday, officials confirmed. This apprehension has heightened alertness among security forces, especially after the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in 28 fatalities. Security forces have intensified surveillance and patrolling in the region to prevent further infiltration attempts.