11 Killed in Kaushambi Firecracker Plant Blast; PM Offers ₹2 Lakh Ex-Gratia

A blast at a firecracker factory in Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh, on Thursday killed 11 people and injured several others. The explosion, which occurred during the production of crackers, caused extensive damage to the plant and the surrounding area. In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the government would provide a ₹2 lakh ex‑gratia payment to the families of the deceased. Authorities are investigating the cause of the blast while emergency services worked to rescue trapped workers. The incident has raised concerns over safety protocols in the fireworks industry.