Middle East war day 17: Trump needed a squad at Hormuz - none showed up
US President Donald Trump expected military or strategic support at the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating Middle East tensions, but his plans failed as no reinforcements arrived.
BJP Goes All In and Takes Over West Bengal Administration as EC Replaces Chief Secretary, DGP and Kolkata Police Chief
The unprecedented reshuffle of top officials hours after the poll schedule was announced triggered a political storm, with TMC protesting in Parliament while the Centre backed the Election Commission’s authority.
NDA sweeps Rajya Sabha: Clean sweep in Bihar, coup in Odisha, chaos in Haryana
Prisoner vans, fistfights, and blank cheques, India's Upper House just got a lot more NDA, and the opposition has only itself to blame.
IEA Begins Largest-Ever Emergency Oil Release as Hormuz Closure Threatens Global Supply
Move signals deep global supply anxiety, tests coordination capacity, and may reshape strategic reserve policies if disruptions persist longer.
Toxic Motorcycle Fumes Claim Four Lives in Annamayya District Tragedy
Four family members, including a grandfather and three children, died after inhaling carbon monoxide from a motorcycle engine left running overnight indoors.
Nandini Sidha Reddy Wins Sahitya Akademi Award for ‘Animesha’
Telangana poet and former Telangana Sahitya Akademi chairman honoured for acclaimed poetry collection; Chief Minister Revanth Reddy calls recognition pride for state.
Governor Inaugurates Telangana Thalli Statue in Assembly Complex
Leaders attend ceremony honouring Telangana movement sacrifices, while government defends new statue design amid opposition criticism over changes to iconic symbol.
UAE orders arrest of 35, including 19 Indians, over fake war videos on social media
Authorities warned residents to rely only on official sources, stressing strict cyber laws and zero tolerance for misinformation during emergencies.
France Strengthens Military Presence in West Asia Ahead of Macron’s Postwar Diplomacy Push
France boosts military presence in West Asia while Macron pursues diplomacy, aiming to protect citizens, support allies and prepare for postwar talks.
Myanmar Holds First Parliament Session in 5 Years Amid Military Dominance
Elections excluded major opposition, leaving military and allies with nearly 90% of seats; session occurs amid ongoing civil conflict and international criticism of Myanmar’s democratic credibility.
BJP’s Ramchander Rao Targets INDIA Alliance Over ‘Minority Vote-Bank’ Strategy
He cites Revanth Reddy’s Jubilee Hills remarks and Stalin’s Iftar statement, urging Muslims to assess development under Modi’s inclusive governance model.
Governor Highlights Telangana’s Rising GSDP, $1 Trillion Ambition in Assembly Address
State projects 10.7% economic expansion, ₹17.82 lakh crore output, ₹4.18 lakh average earnings, increasing national economic share, while opposition demonstrations disrupt Governor’s speech.
BJP MP K. Laxman Seeks Central OBC Status for 32 Castes from Telugu States
Rajya Sabha raised issue of backward communities missing national list, urging government to implement NCBC recommendations enabling reservation access in jobs, education.
Harish Rao Targets CM Revanth Over Telangana’s Share in Krishna, Godavari Waters
BRS leader questions government’s silence over inter-state irrigation discussions, alleges Andhra Pradesh advancing projects while Telangana fails to defend interests.
YSRCP Alleges Andhra Pradesh Becoming a Narcotics Hub
YSRCP leaders alleged rising drug use in Andhra Pradesh, demanded MP Putta Mahesh’s resignation and urged a probe into the Telangana farmhouse raid.
CM Chandrababu Unveils 58-Foot Statue of Potti Sriramulu’s on his 125th Birth Anniversary
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu unveiled a 58-foot statue of Potti Sriramulu in Guntur, honouring his sacrifice for a separate Telugu state.
Ensure Uninterrupted LPG Supply, CM N. Chandrababu Naidu Tells Officials
Amid West Asia tensions, N. Chandrababu Naidu reviewed LPG stocks, directed officials to prevent shortages and ensure smooth supply across Andhra Pradesh.
TDP Serves Show-Cause Notice to MP Putha Mahesh Kumar
Telugu Desam Party issued a show-cause notice to Putha Mahesh Kumar after a farmhouse raid, he denied drug use and sought time to respond
Engagement Theft Takes Twist as Stolen Gold Arrives by Courier
Gold jewellery stolen during an engagement in Naidupeta was mysteriously returned to the victims’ home through an anonymous courier after 20 days.
Drugs, Power and Accountability: Why the Moinabad Incident Demands Strict Action
If leaders break the law, who will uphold it? The Moinabad drug controversy raises serious questions about accountability. Shouldn’t political power face stricter scrutiny and tougher punishment to protect public trust?
Padma Awards: Celebrating India’s Unsung Heroes and National Achievers
Instituted in 1954, these civilian honours recognise distinguished contributions across fields, highlighting grassroots contributors, cultural icons and dedicated nation-builders.
Rupee near record low at 92.43 as oil prices rise and foreign funds exit
Pressure on the currency continued as foreign investors pulled out funds and global crude prices surged, while a sharp drop in India’s forex reserves and volatile market sentiment added to concerns among traders.
Exicom Inaugurates ₹216 Crore EV and Power Electronics Plant in Hyderabad
The Hyderabad facility features Industry 4.0 automation, ISO 8 cleanrooms, EV charger interoperability testing, Tritium TRI-FLEX modules, and sustainable operations with rooftop solar and rainwater harvesting.
Wholesale inflation rises to 2.13% in February on higher manufacturing costs
Wholesale inflation remains moderate, suggesting stable supply conditions, but persistent input cost increases could influence future production decisions and pricing strategies.
Tejas Networks selected for 4G network expansion in South Asia
The order will deploy Tejas’s multi-band 4G RAN and TJ1400 UltraFlex units across multiple locations, enhancing network flexibility, scalability, and cost-effective expansion for the South Asian operator.
SC to hear suo motu case on ‘digital arrest’ cyber fraud next week
Authorities are preparing fresh guidelines to curb cyber extortion scams, with banks, telecom operators and investigators asked to coordinate on preventive measures and compensation for affected victims.
Rajya Sabha cancels March 19–20 sittings, reschedules for March 28–29
The decision follows requests from members citing multiple festivals beginning around March 19. The government accepted the proposal and adjusted the schedule to ensure the House completes its planned business.
Crocodile rescued from IIT Bombay campus
Forest officials and wildlife rescuers safely captured the reptile after it was spotted by campus security. The animal has been sent for medical examination and will be released back into the wild after observation.
Rajya Sabha bids farewell to former CJI Ranjan Gogoi
Chairman C. P. Radhakrishnan praised his legal insight and thoughtful participation in parliamentary debates, noting that his experience enriched discussions and strengthened legislative deliberations in the Rajya Sabha.
Uttarakhand police officers face disciplinary action over house demolition of former naval officer’s widow
The Uttarakhand Police Complaints Authority found serious lapses by the officers, citing delayed FIR registration and failure to prevent looting, demolition, and harm to the complainant’s family and property.
Tamil Nadu government arranges repatriation of pilgrims killed in Nepal crash
Authorities in Tamil Nadu are coordinating with Nepalese officials and the Union Ministry of External Affairs to ensure treatment for injured pilgrims and expedite the safe return of the deceased to their hometowns.
Left banks on Kerala stronghold while chasing revival in Bengal
The polls will test the Left’s ability to defend its remaining strongholds and rebuild influence after years of electoral decline, while leaders express confidence about alliances and voter support in key states.
Chennai rowdy with 30 cases killed in encounter in Tamil Nadu, Madhavaram
Police tracked Thoppai Ganesan after a high-value knifepoint robbery in Puzhal. He allegedly attacked officers during arrest attempts, prompting them to open fire. Investigations into linked cases continue.
Over 30 Vehicles Stranded Amid Snowfall in Kishtwar; Rescue Operation Underway
Fresh snowfall in Kishtwar stranded over 30 vehicles at Sinthan Top, prompting rescue teams to evacuate passengers amid difficult weather conditions.
RSS Eyes Nationwide Growth, Social Harmony After 3-Day ABPS Meet
RSS reports growth in shakhas, saptahik milans, and regional outreach; plans 96 training camps and nationwide programmes commemorating Guru Tegh Bahadur and Sant Ravidas Ji.
Olive Ridley turtles begin mass nesting at Odisha’s Rushikulya coast
Forest officials deployed protection squads, fenced the beach to stop predators and restricted visitor entry as thousands of turtles arrived overnight to dig nests and lay eggs along the coast.
Kejriwal moves Supreme Court after HC rejects plea to shift bench in excise policy case
Kejriwal cited concerns over neutrality of proceedings and sought a new bench, but the High Court said the case was assigned as per roster. The dispute has now moved to the apex court for consideration.
Assam Rifles distributes artificial limbs to specially-abled persons in Arunachal’s Tirap
Beneficiaries from Tirap and Longding were identified with help from local authorities and provided prosthetics under a civic outreach effort aimed at improving mobility, independence and support for vulnerable residents.
Kerala assembly polls: CPI(M) fields 81 candidates, CM Vijayan in contest
LDF fields Vijayan, 11 ministers among 81 candidates; UDF and NDA finalize lists as Kerala braces for a three-front fight across 140 seats, with key leaders shifting constituencies.
Fake Agri-Tourism Scheme: 3 ATCOS directors arrested in ₹100 Cr fraud
Investors fear recovery delays as authorities begin asset tracing, while legal experts warn cooperative scams exploit regulatory gaps and financial illiteracy.
Meghalaya governor calls special session of Garo Hills council
Tensions in Garo Hills escalated after a controversial election notification barred non-tribals, triggering violence, curfews, and police action. Authorities deploy security forces to restore order ahead of the council session.
Light rain, thunderstorms bring relief to parts of north India from recent heat
Rainfall linked to a western disturbance also brought snowfall in parts of Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. The IMD has warned of lightning, gusty winds and possible hail in some districts, with another spell expected later this week.
ED raids 10 locations in West Bengal over alleged illegal call centre
The ED’s probe targets individuals allegedly involved in fraudulent call centre operations in West Bengal, with raids across Siliguri, Howrah, Bidhannagar, and Durgapur ahead of assembly polls.
After days of disruptions, Lok Sabha holds uninterrupted question hour
MPs raised urgent questions on LPG supply, price hikes, and energy security amid West Asia tensions. Speaker Birla urged discipline, while government assured steady fuel availability.
India Post to launch 24-hour, 48-hour premium Speed Post across six cities
India Post’s 24 Speed Post offers D+1 next-day delivery in six cities with OTP-secure delivery, tracking, BNPL, free bulk pickup, API integration, and money-back guarantee.
Sanoj Mishra alleges ‘love jihad’ in Monalisa Bhonsle marriage, to approach MP CM
The woman, who went viral during the 2025 Kumbh Mela, recently married in Kerala while working on a Malayalam film. Her family has alleged she may be a minor, a claim she denies, saying she is 18.
Changed the course of politics: Jairam Ramesh on Palkhivala’s letter to Indira Gandhi rubbishing 1975 verdict
Ramesh highlighted a little-known document reproduced in T R Andhyarujina’s book, saying it offers rare insight into debates within the political and legal establishment during the turbulent Emergency-era period.
RJD to contest Kerala assembly polls as part of LDF, says Tejashwi Yadav
The move highlights state-specific alliance politics, as RJD aligns with the Left in Kerala despite partnering Congress in Bihar, reflecting shifting strategies ahead of elections and parallel Rajya Sabha contest dynamics.
Omar Abdullah Opens Asia’s Largest Tulip Garden, Tourism Revival in Focus
Over 1.8 million tulip bulbs across 70+ varieties bloom early at Srinagar’s garden; CM Abdullah highlights tourism revival, floriculture commercialization, security, and cultural events.
Eight Opposition MPs’ Suspension May Be Revoked as Lok Sabha Seeks Order
Speaker Om Birla convenes meeting with party leaders; understanding reached on discipline, protests, and conduct norms during ongoing Budget Session.
EC Orders New SPs in Four Tamil Nadu Districts Ahead of Polls
Election watchdog reshuffles police leadership in Karur, Erode, Nagapattinam and Virudhunagar after reviewing security preparedness for upcoming single-phase voting.
After Safety Upgrades, Chinnaswamy Stadium Gets Green Signal for IPL 2026
Karnataka government grants clearance for IPL 2026 matches at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium after reviewing safety, infrastructure and crowd-management upgrades.
India’s cricket stars shine: Gill, Mandhana win top BCCI awards
Gill scored 754 runs in England and starred in Champions Trophy; Mandhana broke ODI records with 1,703 runs and led India to their maiden Women’s World Cup triumph in 2025.
Jaishankar thanks Armenia after 550 Indians leave Iran, questions raised over slow evacuation as 8,000 still stranded
India’s evacuation from Iran is proceeding slowly, with thousands of students and citizens still awaiting safe passage. Authorities are coordinating multiple routes, but concerns over pace remain.
Maharashtra warns of FIRs against hospitals charging patients under cashless health schemes
Authorities reviewed 368 complaints of overcharging, recovered Rs 60 lakh in penalties and delisted 12 hospitals. The government has introduced AI-based monitoring and district committees to curb fraud and ensure compliance.
Congress MP raises concern over lack of toilets for girl students in govt schools, asks “Is Beti Bachao only for speeches?”
Referring to data from UNICEF and various reports, she said inadequate sanitation and hygiene facilities continue to affect girls’ education, urging immediate steps to address infrastructure gaps.
Amrit Udyan opens doors for 10,000 senior citizens at Rashtrapati Bhavan
Around 10,000 senior citizens from across India visited Amrit Udyan at Rashtrapati Bhavan, enjoying landscaped lawns, seasonal flowers, and horticultural displays in a special initiative promoting social engagement.
Rising star Mubassina powers to long jump gold with career best mark
The 20-year-old athlete improved her personal best with a final-round leap at the Bengaluru meet, finishing ahead of Bhavani Yadav and Kusuma Ravada in a steady and competitive field.
Jannik Sinner, Aryna Sabalenka win maiden Indian Wells titles
Sinner completed a flawless run in the desert, winning every match in straight sets and overturning a 4-0 deficit in the second set tiebreak. Sabalenka survived a championship point in a tense decider to prevail.
Spain v Argentina ‘Finalissima’ in Qatar called off due to Middle East tensions
UEFA cancels the Qatar Finalissima as Iran’s regional attacks escalate; alternative venues in Madrid and two-leg options were rejected by Argentina, leaving the match off the calendar.
Imran Khan survives tough test, Gehani dominates at Snooker Classic
A tense deciding frame, steady break-building, and composed finishes marked the latest matches, with players showing strong form and setting up more competitive contests as the tournament progresses.
PT Usha Calls for Athlete-First Governance to Shape India’s Sporting Future
PT Usha stresses athlete-first governance, calls for better grassroots talent development and infrastructure, while IOA CEO Raghuram Iyer highlights India’s ambitions to host major international events.
Salman Khan’s ‘Battle of Galwan’ Reborn as ‘Maatrubhumi’ with Patriotic Anthem
The film, directed by Apoorva Lakhia and featuring Salman Khan as Bikkumalla Santosh Babu, honours Galwan Valley heroes and features the track “Maatrubhumi” by Arijit Singh.
Pink Era Incoming? Olivia Rodrigo’s cryptic clues point to April album drop
Industry insiders hint at major sonic evolution, high-profile collaborations, surprise visuals, and a possible lead single drop before official announcement.
Actor Kiran Abbavaram turns director, to star in his own film
Kiran Abbavaram will direct and star in a new film produced by Sudhakar Chaganti, with Bheems Ceciroleo composing music. Shooting begins soon, aiming for a 2027 release.
Ballots or Box Office? Drishyam 3 release sparks debate
Advance bookings are expected to open soon, while distributors across regions are closely monitoring theatre availability and competing releases.
Suriya’s ‘Vishwanath & Sons’ teaser unveiled, sparks buzz online
The nearly two-minute teaser offers the first look at Suriya as Sanjay Vishwanath, hinting at an emotional family drama. Directed by Venky Atluri with music by G.V. Prakash Kumar, the film is slated for a July 2026 theatrical release.
Emirates Flights Return to Kerala After Security Incident Shuts Dubai Airport
Emirates flight from Thiruvananthapuram returned midway after security incident near Dubai airport forced temporary suspension of flight operations Monday morning.
Sensex ends higher after rocky start, Gulf crisis keeps markets on edge
Markets rebounded despite $106 crude, Dubai airport drone strike, 1,800+ Iran attacks on UAE, and ₹10,717 cr FII outflows. Domestic buyers cushioned the blow.
"We will script history in May", says Congress, the math, however, has other plans
From Kerala's close fight to Bengal's lost cause, Congress faces five very different battles with very different odds on May 4.
Over ₹9,200 cr investment announced at Progressive Punjab Investors’ Summit
Industry leaders announced major projects in textiles, renewable energy, education and biofuel sectors, signalling renewed investor confidence and expected job creation across Punjab’s industrial ecosystem.
India explores new framework for plea bargaining, legal health index at justice seminar
The seminar highlighted India’s case backlog, need for systemic reforms, technology in courts, victim justice frameworks, judicial capacity building, and a Legal Health Index to improve fairness, efficiency, and resource management.
Pipeline Over Cylinder: India speeds up PNG adoption amid crisis
Urban infrastructure gaps may widen fuel inequality, leaving smaller towns and rural households more dependent on volatile cylinder supplies.
28-year-old woman killed in brutal attack by mother-in-law after dispute over tea
Neighbours reported the family had frequent quarrels earlier, leaving residents shocked, raising concerns about hidden domestic tensions and lack of timely intervention.
Government to revamp Stand-Up India Scheme to boost SC/ST and Women entrepreneurs
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said a redesigned framework based on implementation feedback and studies by NITI Aayog will be placed before the Union Cabinet for approval.
Congress leader urges LS Speaker to lift unfair suspension of 8 MPs
Congress leader K C Venugopal condemned the full-session suspension of eight opposition MPs, calling it unfair and urging the Lok Sabha Speaker to restore their rights immediately.
Yezdi Roadster wins car&bike 'Bike Design of the Year' for its Defiant Design
Modular seating innovation, stealthy Shadow Black styling, wide rear stance and heritage-inspired tank helped the motorcycle stand out in design judging.
Storm Havoc in Mayurbhanj: Two dead, hundreds of homes damaged
Relief teams assessing crop losses, restoring electricity, clearing blocked roads, arranging temporary shelters, food supplies, and medical aid for displaced families.
EDITORIAL AND SPECIAL STORY
Drugs, Power and Accountability: Why the Moinabad Incident Demands Strict Action
If leaders break the law, who will uphold it? The Moinabad drug controversy raises serious questions about accountability. Shouldn’t political power face stricter scrutiny and tougher punishment to protect public trust?
Padma Awards: Celebrating India’s Unsung Heroes and National Achievers
Instituted in 1954, these civilian honours recognise distinguished contributions across fields, highlighting grassroots contributors, cultural icons and dedicated nation-builders.
SPORTS
After Safety Upgrades, Chinnaswamy Stadium Gets Green Signal for IPL 2026
Karnataka government grants clearance for IPL 2026 matches at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium after reviewing safety, infrastructure and crowd-management upgrades.
India’s cricket stars shine: Gill, Mandhana win top BCCI awards
Gill scored 754 runs in England and starred in Champions Trophy; Mandhana broke ODI records with 1,703 runs and led India to their maiden Women’s World Cup triumph in 2025.
Jannik Sinner, Aryna Sabalenka win maiden Indian Wells titles
Sinner completed a flawless run in the desert, winning every match in straight sets and overturning a 4-0 deficit in the second set tiebreak. Sabalenka survived a championship point in a tense decider to prevail.
Spain v Argentina ‘Finalissima’ in Qatar called off due to Middle East tensions
UEFA cancels the Qatar Finalissima as Iran’s regional attacks escalate; alternative venues in Madrid and two-leg options were rejected by Argentina, leaving the match off the calendar.
Imran Khan survives tough test, Gehani dominates at Snooker Classic
A tense deciding frame, steady break-building, and composed finishes marked the latest matches, with players showing strong form and setting up more competitive contests as the tournament progresses.
PT Usha Calls for Athlete-First Governance to Shape India’s Sporting Future
PT Usha stresses athlete-first governance, calls for better grassroots talent development and infrastructure, while IOA CEO Raghuram Iyer highlights India’s ambitions to host major international events.
ENTERTAINMENT
Oscars 2026: Hollywood Roars Back as ‘One Battle After Another’ Conquers the Night
Industry shifts toward streaming dominance, rising global box-office influence, younger Academy voters, diversity push, franchise fatigue, and uncertain theatrical future loom.
Salman Khan’s ‘Battle of Galwan’ Reborn as ‘Maatrubhumi’ with Patriotic Anthem
The film, directed by Apoorva Lakhia and featuring Salman Khan as Bikkumalla Santosh Babu, honours Galwan Valley heroes and features the track “Maatrubhumi” by Arijit Singh.
Actor Kiran Abbavaram turns director, to star in his own film
Kiran Abbavaram will direct and star in a new film produced by Sudhakar Chaganti, with Bheems Ceciroleo composing music. Shooting begins soon, aiming for a 2027 release.
Ballots or Box Office? Drishyam 3 release sparks debate
Advance bookings are expected to open soon, while distributors across regions are closely monitoring theatre availability and competing releases.