RBI keeps Repo at 5.25%, projects stable inflation and stronger growth
RBI expects stable inflation despite precious metal price pressures, sees scope for lower rates, stronger growth, and smooth management of government borrowing.
SC gives Telangana Speaker yet another ‘last warning’
The Supreme Court has repeatedly pressed the Telangana Speaker to act on the disqualification petitions, but only eight of the 10 cases have been decided so far. Danam Nagender and Kadiyam Srihari remain, with the court warning that further delay could lead to contempt proceedings while the Speaker navigates the tricky balance between constitutional duty and political pressures.
Preparations Begin for Telangana’s Special Intensive Revision of Voter Rolls
Telangana CEO announces Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls likely in April–May; parties urged to appoint BLAs for accuracy, transparency.
KTR Warns Cadre Against Revanth Reddy’s Verbal Provocations
KTR urged party workers to highlight Congress government’s unfulfilled promises and public issues during the Vemulawada municipal elections. He stressed focusing on local development, welfare schemes, and citizens’ concerns rather than personal attacks.
Iran vows to defend sovereignty against “excessive demands” in US nuclear talks
Iran insists on protecting its sovereignty and limiting talks to its nuclear programme, while the U.S. seeks to include missile development and regional influence. Ongoing economic crises and sanctions pressure Iran, even as the U.S. issues stern warnings and maintains a naval presence in the Arabian Sea.
Iran seizes two oil tankers in Persian Gulf, 15 crew members detained
The tankers, carrying about 1 million litres of fuel, were seized near Farsi Island and transferred to Bushehr, with their crew now in judicial custody.
US and Iran hold indirect talks in Oman over nuclear programme
The delegations met separately in Oman today, but no public outcome or agreement was announced.
Hospital attack kills 22 as famine threatens more areas in War-torn Darfur
Displacement from besieged cities and blocked aid routes are accelerating child malnutrition and crippling remaining health services across western Sudan.
Indonesia, Australia sign new security treaty to deepen strategic ties
Indonesia and Australia have signed a new security treaty in Jakarta, signalling a strategic reset in ties as both sides deepen cooperation amid shifting regional and Indo-Pacific security dynamics.
India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise ‘KHANJAR’ Begins in Assam
India and Kyrgyzstan begin 13th ‘KHANJAR’ exercise in Assam, enhancing counter-terrorism skills and strengthening defence ties.
Haj Pilgrimage 2026: 695 pilgrims selected under Nizam Rubath Scheme
The selection was conducted through a transparent draw in the presence of government, Haj and Saudi representatives, with accommodation arranged at the historic Rubath in Makkah to ease pilgrims’ stay and costs.The centuries-old facility, initiated by the Nizams, continues to support pilgrims, while India’s Haj participation and quota allocation are governed by annual India–Saudi agreements.
BRS MLC urges Telangana govt to allocate 15% of Budget to Education
Dasoju Sravan criticised Chief Minister Revanth Reddy for not introducing any new education policies in two years. He highlighted urgent issues like poor government school conditions, teacher shortages, and rising student dropouts.
KCR’s welfare schemes have been stalled: Harish Rao
He accused the Congress government of failing to implement key welfare promises, citing delays in pensions, women’s assistance and flagship social schemes.Urging voters to reflect on governance outcomes, he called for support to BRS candidates to restore development and welfare initiatives.
Most-wanted criminal arrested after firing in Sri Sathya Sai district
The accused, wanted in a 2024 gang rape case, attacked police with a knife while trying to escape during the operation.Police opened fire in self-defence, injuring him and arresting him, while an inspector and a constable sustained injuries.
Andhra CM alleges chemicals, animal fat used in Tirumala laddu ghee
He said corrective steps have been initiated in the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, resulting in a noticeable improvement in laddu quality.Naidu also rejected claims of a clean chit, announced further scrutiny after the SIT report, while YSRCP leaders denied wrongdoing and accused the government of premature allegations.
Muddaada Ravichandra takes charge as TTD Executive Officer
The appointment comes amid a CBI-led SIT probe into alleged adulteration of ghee used for Tirumala laddu prasadam, which has put past officials under scrutiny.Restoring devotees’ trust in prasadam quality and preserving the temple’s sanctity are seen as his immediate priorities.
Irrigation for every acre is the goal: AP CM
The Chief Minister underscored large-scale water conservation, river interlinking and micro-irrigation as key to eliminating drought and ensuring sustainable agriculture. He assigned Water Users Associations a central role in equitable distribution, including to tail-end farmers, and highlighted Rayalaseema’s transformation through major irrigation projects.
CM Chandrababu Naidu to lay foundation stone for Amaravati Quantum Valley
The initiative will bring quantum cloud services, innovation centres and talent hubs to Amaravati through partnerships with global and domestic technology leaders. It is expected to boost information security, create high-end jobs and strengthen India’s leadership in next-generation technologies.
The Rise of Literary and Artistic Communities: India’s Cultural Renaissance in Public Life
Are India’s buzzing lit fests from Hyderabad to Goa reviving reading, dialogue, and a shared cultural spirit?
Phanigiri: A Peerless Buddhist Heritage Site
Phanigiri is an ancient 2,000-year-old Buddhist heritage site in Telangana, renowned for its rare Bodhisattva sculptures and the earliest South Indian inscription mentioning Lord Krishna.The state government is currently developing this historic "Snake Hood Hill" into an international tourism hub under its Vision 2047 plan to showcase its architectural and cultural grandeur to the world.
India bets on carbon credits to Green agriculture, but questions remain on fair returns
India’s expanding agricultural carbon market offers climate and income opportunities but raises concerns over equity, transparency and fair revenue sharing for farmers.
India extends OALP-X bid deadline to May 2026 amid rule changes
India extended the OALP-X bid deadline to May 2026 to allow investors more time to assess new exploration rules and acreage potential.
Away from fields and chores, rural Pune women step onto the cricket ground
The initiative turned a seasonal farming programme into a platform that builds confidence, leadership skills, and public participation among rural women.
Jharkhand Businessman dies after falling from apartment, investigation on
Authorities are probing the circumstances surrounding the businessman’s death, with no clear motive established yet.
Odisha to unveil people’s budget after statewide consultations, says CM Majhi
Over 2,000 public suggestions gathered through digital platforms and expert consultations will directly influence how the state prioritises welfare, infrastructure and job creation in the upcoming fiscal plan.
RSS Flags Off Kashmir to Kanyakumari ‘Dhwaj Yatra’ to Address Misgivings
RSS begins Kashmir-Kanyakumari Dhwaj Yatra to clear misconceptions, celebrate 100 years, promote film, while opposition criticises communal symbolism.
India Highlights Atmanirbhar Bharat Defence Capabilities at WDS 2026 in Riyadh
India participates in 3rd WDS 2026 with first-ever pavilion, showcasing indigenous defence tech and strengthening global defence partnerships.
Yash’s Toxic bags record ₹120 crore AP–TG deal ahead of March 2026 release
Yash’s upcoming pan-Indian film Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups has created trade history ahead of its release after Sri Venkateswara Creations, led by Dil Raju, acquired the Andhra Pradesh–Telangana theatrical rights for a record ₹120 crore, the highest ever for a non-Telugu origin film. The deal reflects strong distributor confidence driven by Yash’s pan-India appeal and the film’s scale. The movie has already generated significant pre-release buzz, especially among youth audiences, following the release of its dark, stylised glimpse.
Railways ‘Surplus’ under lens as operating costs eat up nearly all revenue
Railways’ surplus remains marginal, driven largely by government funding, while high operating costs and pension liabilities continue to limit true profitability.
Tensions Flare in Lok Sabha During Budget Discussions
Opposition MPs disrupted proceedings over the India-US trade deal, the Adani issue, and India-China border tensions, forcing repeated adjournments in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Prime Minister Modi strongly criticised Congress and defended government policies amid the protests.
Stalin unveils Karl Marx statue in Chennai, Reaffirms commitment to progressive ideals
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin unveiled a statue of Karl Marx at Chennai’s Connemara Public Library, reaffirming the DMK government’s commitment to progressive, egalitarian, and social justice–oriented ideals. Announced earlier in April 2025, the ₹85.80-lakh statue honours Marx as a global revolutionary thinker.
Delhi police nab drug supplier, seize Heroin worth Rs 1.5 Cr
Police acted on a tip-off, successfully trapping the suspect; investigation continues to trace the primary source of drugs.
MP Arvind Counters TPCC Chief Mahesh Kumar Goud’s Criticism
Arvind highlighted major infrastructure, education, and welfare initiatives in Nizamabad, including railway projects, road expansions, and student opportunities, emphasizing tangible development over seven years. He urged critics to understand these achievements before making claims, while Mahesh Kumar Goud accused him of election-time communal rhetoric and inaction on key issues.
KCR Being Protected by ‘Adopted Son’ Kishan Reddy: CM Revanth Reddy
CM Revanth Reddy accused Union Minister Kishan Reddy of shielding KCR and alleged inaction in the Kaleshwaram project investigation, calling the BJP-BRS coordination suspicious. He also announced major development projects in Nizamabad, including schools, university facilities, roads, and funding for women’s self-help groups.
Telangana Assembly Budget Sessions to Begin from February 26
The Chief Secretary has completed department-wise reviews, and CM Revanth Reddy with Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka will soon hold preparatory meetings with department heads. Special sessions with all ministers will finalise a budget focused on public welfare and implementing guarantees.
Six-lane port road to boost Machilipatnam connectivity, trade prospects
Naidu thanked Gadkari for Rs 573 crore sanction for six-lane Machilipatnam Port road, expected to cut logistics costs and boost trade.
FASTag Annual pass crosses 50 lakh users, transforms highway commuting
The FASTag Annual Pass has gained strong acceptance nationwide, crossing 50 lakh users and recording over 26.55 crore toll transactions within six months of its launch. Offering one-year or 200 toll crossings for a one-time fee of ₹3,000, the pass has reduced travel hassles for private vehicle owners, with nearly 28% of car transactions on National Highways now using it.
ECI briefs 1,444 central observers ahead of assembly elections in five states
The Election Commission of India has completed a two-day briefing of 1,444 Central Observers who will be deployed for the upcoming Assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. The observers were trained on key aspects of election management, including electoral rolls, polling procedures, expenditure monitoring, law and order, IT systems and EVMs.
Government expands centres of excellence for rare diseases to 15
The government has expanded Centres of Excellence for rare diseases from eight to 15, providing specialised treatment, research, and financial support of up to Rs 50 lakh per patient under the National Policy for Rare Diseases.
PhysicsWallah Offers Free Doubt Resolution, Mock Preboards for Class 10 CBSE Students
PhysicsWallah launches free doubt-resolution support and offline mock preboards nationwide for all Class 10 CBSE students ahead of 2026 exams.
Nigerian student arrested in Delhi after eight years on the run in passport act case
Nigerian student K Prince, absconding for eight years in a Madhya Pradesh Passport Act case, was arrested in Delhi, while police continue to hunt 15 other absconding students.
Customs seize rs 12.93 crore worth narcotics from woman at IGI airport
Customs seize 12.92 kg of ganja worth Rs 12.93 crore from an Indian woman at IGI Airport; investigation ongoing.
Trump rejects ‘Nuclear’ deal with Russia
The expiration of the New START treaty has raised global concerns over a renewed nuclear arms race, with the U.S. pushing for a modernised agreement that includes Russia and China. Experts warn that without restrictions, mutual suspicion and the risk of conflict could escalate sharply.
CM Omar Abdullah unveils Rs 1.27 lakh Cr budget for J&K with focus on growth and welfare
Omar Abdullah Presents Rs 1.27 Lakh Crore Budget for J&K, Aiming at Economic Revival and Inclusive Growth.
RBI to compensate bank customers up to ₹25,000 for digital frauds
RBI announces up to ₹25,000 compensation for victims of digital banking frauds, even if OTPs are shared, from the Depositor Education and Awareness Fund.
Railways prepare DPRs for new and expanded rail lines in J&K border region
The Railways has prepared DPRs for doubling the Qazigund–Srinagar–Budgam rail line and a new Baramulla–Uri line to improve connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir’s Valley and border regions. While approvals are pending, the move builds on the success of the recently commissioned USBRL project, which has boosted employment, connectivity, and tourism in the region.
Kunal Kamra moves Bombay HC against Sahyog portal, calls it attack on free speech
Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has moved the Bombay High Court challenging the government’s Sahyog portal and amended IT Rules, calling them unconstitutional and an attack on free speech. He argues that the mechanism allows government officials to order takedowns of online content on vague grounds without due process or accountability, making digital expression vulnerable to arbitrary censorship.
Meghalaya Mine Blast: Police arrest Two Suspects
Rescue operations continue as authorities investigate the illegal mine, and compensation has been announced for victims’ families.
US and Russia Reopen Military Channel Amid Ukraine Peace Talks
US and Russia resume military dialogue amid Ukraine war talks; prisoner exchanges occur, raising hopes for peace and regional stability.
Pakistani forces kill 24 militants in intelligence-based operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Pakistani security forces killed 24 TTP-linked militants in two intelligence-based operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa amid a surge in militant violence.
Bomb Threat Emails Disrupt Judicial Work at Three Odisha Courts
Judicial work halted as bomb threat emails triggered evacuations and security searches at district courts in Cuttack, Puri and Phulbani.
Northeast Frontier Railway Achieves Major Milestones in Renewable Energy
NFR achieves record rooftop solar, expands electric traction, installs ‘Kavach’, enhancing operational safety and promoting clean, sustainable railway operations.
Kerala CSR fund scam unravels: FIR against senior BJP leader, probe widens into multi-crore fraud
Police suspect thousands were duped through fake subsidy promises, with investigators tracing the money trail and widening the probe across multiple districts.
Leave Iran Immediately: U.S. Issues Key Advisory to Its Citizens
The U.S. warns that protests, road closures, and communication blackouts in Iran have created severe risks for its citizens. Dual nationals are urged to maintain a low profile, and alternative exit routes via neighbouring countries are recommended.
NIA raids Government Medical College Anantnag in connection with terror network case
NIA searched GMC Anantnag to gather further evidence in the white-collar terror module case linked to rifle and explosives recoveries.
Amit Shah Visits J&K Borders, Reviews Security and Launches Welfare Schemes
Union Home Minister Amit Shah interacted with troops at Gurnam and Bobiyan outposts, reviewing border security and measures to curb infiltration and smuggling. He also inaugurated six welfare schemes to improve facilities for BSF personnel and support local border communities.
Madras High Court Upholds ₹1.5 Crore IT Penalty Against TVK Chief Vijay
The Madras High Court dismissed Vijay’s plea against the ₹1.5 crore IT penalty, noting the undisclosed income came to light only due to raids. Simultaneously, the court sent the Jana Nayakan censor case back for fresh hearing, delaying the film’s release.
India U19 claim 6th World Cup title with 100-run win, Vaibhav’s 175 off 80 balls steals the show
India’s bowlers and supporting batsmen backed up Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s record innings to secure a dominant 100-run win over England U19 in the final.
Another blow for Australia: Hazlewood ruled out of T20 World Cup
Australia enters the T20 World Cup with a depleted bowling attack and key players struggling for form, raising questions over their title defense.
Harshit Rana likely out of T20 World Cup after knee injury, India’s pace plans disrupted
India may have to reshuffle their playing combination and rely on backup bowlers after two squad players were sidelined just days before the opening match.
India women exit Badminton Asia Team Championships after quarterfinal loss to China
India’s title defense faltered as the team struggled without PV Sindhu, losing all three matches to China in the quarterfinals.
Davis Cup 2026 qualifiers: India prepares for key weekend tie
India looks to kickstart its Davis Cup campaign with strong singles and doubles lineups, aiming to capitalize on home conditions against the Netherlands.
Winter Games 2026: Curling, figure skating, and hockey deliver day one thrills
Team USA leads in figure skating, Italy rebounds in curling, Lindsey Vonn completes a training run, and women’s ice hockey delivers early excitement on day one.
Nation remembers Lata Mangeshkar, the eternal voice of India
ndia remembered legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar on her death anniversary, celebrating her unmatched contribution to music and culture. Known as the Nightingale of India, she recorded over 30,000 songs in 36 languages and became the voice of generations through patriotic and timeless film melodies. Leaders and fans paid tribute to her enduring legacy, honours including the Bharat Ratna, and her role in shaping India’s cultural identity, which continues to inspire even the younger generation.
Euphoria : A hard-hitting social drama marks Gunasekhar’s powerful comeback
Euphoria, directed by Gunasekhar, marks a powerful comeback with a hard-hitting social message, gripping screenplay, and strong emotional depth. The film has earned positive reviews, including a 3.25/5 rating from Telugu Cult YT. Bhumika Chawla delivers one of her career-best performances on her return to the big screen, while Sara Arjun, fresh off nationwide recognition from Dhurandhar, adds significant emotional impact.
Neeraj Pandey clarifies Ghooskhor Pandat Is fictional amid FIR, NHRC notice over title
Manoj Bajpayee–starrer Netflix film Ghooskhor Pandat has sparked controversy over claims that its title links a religious/caste identifier with corruption, allegedly hurting Hindu sentiments. Following complaints by local advocates and social groups, an FIR was registered in Lucknow after the Uttar Pradesh government sought action. Netflix subsequently removed the film’s teaser.
BTS x Netflix: Fans worldwide to watch Seoul comeback live on March 21
BTS’s comeback blends music, tourism, and digital media, showcasing South Korea’s cultural power through a global Netflix partnership and citywide celebration.
SS Rajamouli unveils India’s first 1.43:1 IMAX film, slated for 2027
Rajamouli’s upcoming action-adventure starring Mahesh Babu pioneers IMAX and Antarctica filming, blending mythological emotions with cutting-edge cinematic technology.
AAP Leader Lucky Oberoi Shot Dead in Jalandhar
AAP leader Lucky Oberoi shot dead in Jalandhar; gun culture and political rivalries in Punjab raise security concerns, police probe underway.
PM Modi urges students to avoid internet distractions, focus on life skills at Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged students to avoid excessive internet use and exam-centric learning, stressing balanced education, life skills and mental well-being at Pariksha Pe Charcha 2026.
Russian military intelligence deputy chief shot in Moscow
Russia’s military intelligence deputy chief Lt. Gen. Vladimir Alekseyev was shot and wounded in Moscow, with authorities yet to assign responsibility for the attack.
Motorcyclist dies after falling into 15-feet-deep pit in Delhi, three engineers suspended
Authorities have launched an inquiry into the incident and taken disciplinary action by 3 suspending engineers responsible for the site.
“Choice over pregnancy is a right”: SC allows minor end 30-week pregnancy
The Supreme Court directs Mumbai’s JJ Hospital to carry out the medical termination while ensuring all necessary safeguards, emphasizing the minor’s safety and autonomy.
31 killed, over 160 injured in suicide bombing during friday prayers in Islamabad
A foreign-linked suicide bomber attacked a Shia mosque in Islamabad, killing dozens, injuring many, prompting nationwide security and emergency responses.
Zagreb Open 2026: Neelam Wins Silver
India added one silver and three bronze medals on Thursday, taking its total tally at the Zagreb Open 2026 to seven. Wrestlers like Vicky Huda, Dinesh Dhanker, and Muskan secured podium finishes, while focus now shifts to Antim Panghal’s upcoming bout.
Namita Gokhale conferred Bhartendu Harishchandra lifetime achievement award
Noted author and Jaipur Literature Festival co-founder Namita Gokhale has been honoured with the Bhartendu Harishchandra Lifetime Achievement Award by the Banaras Lit Fest for her enduring contribution to Indian literature.
EDITORIAL AND SPECIAL STORY
The Rise of Literary and Artistic Communities: India’s Cultural Renaissance in Public Life
Are India’s buzzing lit fests from Hyderabad to Goa reviving reading, dialogue, and a shared cultural spirit?
Phanigiri: A Peerless Buddhist Heritage Site
Phanigiri is an ancient 2,000-year-old Buddhist heritage site in Telangana, renowned for its rare Bodhisattva sculptures and the earliest South Indian inscription mentioning Lord Krishna.The state government is currently developing this historic "Snake Hood Hill" into an international tourism hub under its Vision 2047 plan to showcase its architectural and cultural grandeur to the world.
SPORTS
India U19 claim 6th World Cup title with 100-run win, Vaibhav’s 175 off 80 balls steals the show
India’s bowlers and supporting batsmen backed up Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s record innings to secure a dominant 100-run win over England U19 in the final.
Another blow for Australia: Hazlewood ruled out of T20 World Cup
Australia enters the T20 World Cup with a depleted bowling attack and key players struggling for form, raising questions over their title defense.
India women exit Badminton Asia Team Championships after quarterfinal loss to China
India’s title defense faltered as the team struggled without PV Sindhu, losing all three matches to China in the quarterfinals.
Davis Cup 2026 qualifiers: India prepares for key weekend tie
India looks to kickstart its Davis Cup campaign with strong singles and doubles lineups, aiming to capitalize on home conditions against the Netherlands.
Winter Games 2026: Curling, figure skating, and hockey deliver day one thrills
Team USA leads in figure skating, Italy rebounds in curling, Lindsey Vonn completes a training run, and women’s ice hockey delivers early excitement on day one.
Zagreb Open 2026: Neelam Wins Silver
India added one silver and three bronze medals on Thursday, taking its total tally at the Zagreb Open 2026 to seven. Wrestlers like Vicky Huda, Dinesh Dhanker, and Muskan secured podium finishes, while focus now shifts to Antim Panghal’s upcoming bout.
ENTERTAINMENT
Yash’s Toxic bags record ₹120 crore AP–TG deal ahead of March 2026 release
Yash’s upcoming pan-Indian film Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups has created trade history ahead of its release after Sri Venkateswara Creations, led by Dil Raju, acquired the Andhra Pradesh–Telangana theatrical rights for a record ₹120 crore, the highest ever for a non-Telugu origin film. The deal reflects strong distributor confidence driven by Yash’s pan-India appeal and the film’s scale. The movie has already generated significant pre-release buzz, especially among youth audiences, following the release of its dark, stylised glimpse.
Nation remembers Lata Mangeshkar, the eternal voice of India
ndia remembered legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar on her death anniversary, celebrating her unmatched contribution to music and culture. Known as the Nightingale of India, she recorded over 30,000 songs in 36 languages and became the voice of generations through patriotic and timeless film melodies. Leaders and fans paid tribute to her enduring legacy, honours including the Bharat Ratna, and her role in shaping India’s cultural identity, which continues to inspire even the younger generation.
Neeraj Pandey clarifies Ghooskhor Pandat Is fictional amid FIR, NHRC notice over title
Manoj Bajpayee–starrer Netflix film Ghooskhor Pandat has sparked controversy over claims that its title links a religious/caste identifier with corruption, allegedly hurting Hindu sentiments. Following complaints by local advocates and social groups, an FIR was registered in Lucknow after the Uttar Pradesh government sought action. Netflix subsequently removed the film’s teaser.
BTS x Netflix: Fans worldwide to watch Seoul comeback live on March 21
BTS’s comeback blends music, tourism, and digital media, showcasing South Korea’s cultural power through a global Netflix partnership and citywide celebration.