T
Times of India
Mar 13, 2026, 12:43 AM
Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation Operates Special Buses for Weekend Travel

Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation Operates Special Buses for Weekend Travel

Chennai: Anticipating heavy passenger movement during the upcoming weekend, the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation has planned to operate several special buses in addition to regular services from March 13 to March 15.A total of 310 buses will operate on Friday from Kilambakkam bus terminus will be operated to destinations including Tiruvannamalai, Trichy, Kumbakonam, Madurai, Tirunelveli, Nagercoil, Kanyakumari, Thoothukudi, Coimbatore, Salem, Erode and Tirupur.On Saturday, 325 buses will be operated. From Koyambedu, buses will be operated to Tiruvannamalai, Nagapattinam, Velankanni, Hosur and Bengaluru, with 55 buses scheduled each on Friday and Saturday.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Saudi intercepts drone headed to Shaybah oil field; Israeli strikes 10 Hezbollah targets in Beirut'Legitimate targets': Iran issues warning to US tech firms including Google, Amazon, Microsoft, NvidiaSafe Passage For Indian Vessels: Iran clears Indian-flagged ships in Hormuz; US, Europe, Israel face curbsIn addition, 100 special buses will be operated from Bengaluru, Tirupur, Erode and Coimbatore to various destinations across the State. From Madhavaram in Chennai, 20 special buses will be operated on March 13 and 14.Officials said special buses would also be operated on Sunday based on demand to help passengers return to Chennai and Bengaluru from their hometowns. Transport authorities noted that 10,774 passengers have already booked tickets for Friday, 4,682 for Saturday and 9,663 for Sunday.
45 shares
😐
T
Times of India
Mar 13, 2026, 12:06 AM
US Temporarily Allows Sale of Russian Oil Amid Escalating Middle East Conflict

US Temporarily Allows Sale of Russian Oil Amid Escalating Middle East Conflict

The United States has temporarily permitted the sale of Russian oil already in transit, according to a treasury department notice issued on Friday. This comes as energy prices surged following US-Israeli strikes on Iran that pushed the Middle East into war.The treasury granted a license allowing transactions involving Russian crude oil and petroleum products loaded onto vessels on or before 12.01am on March 12, with the authorization remaining in effect until April 11.Oil prices surged, with Brent crude closing above $100 a barrel for the first time since August 2022, after Iran vowed the United States would “regret” launching military action against it.Brent crude rose 9.2 per cent to settle at $100.46 a barrel, while the US benchmark, West Texas Intermediate, jumped 9.7 per cent to $95.73.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Saudi intercepts drone headed to Shaybah oil field; Israeli strikes 10 Hezbollah targets in Beirut'Legitimate targets': Iran issues warning to US tech firms including Google, Amazon, Microsoft, NvidiaSafe Passage For Indian Vessels: Iran clears Indian-flagged ships in Hormuz; US, Europe, Israel face curbsEquity markets slipped as concerns mounted over a prolonged Middle East conflict. US and Israeli strikes on Iran continued, while Tehran’s retaliation effectively halted most trade through the Strait of Hormuz.Investors also found little reassurance in US President Donald Trump’s statement that preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon was a greater priority for him than keeping oil prices under control.
77 shares
😢
T
Times of India
Mar 12, 2026, 09:50 PM
Jake Paul's Sweaty Suit Malfunction Steals Show at Donald Trump Rally

Jake Paul's Sweaty Suit Malfunction Steals Show at Donald Trump Rally

Jake Paul sparks wild fan reactions after strange wardrobe malfunction moment during Donald Trump rally in Kentucky confuses viewers (Image via Getty)Jake Paul suddenly became the center of attention for an unexpected reason when he appeared at a political rally with Donald Trump in Boone County, Kentucky. The YouTuber turned boxer walked onto the stage wearing a tan suit and a blue tie while speaking to the crowd about using his voice in America.But something unusual quickly caught the attention of people watching the event and those later seeing the clips online. The weather in Kentucky was warm, around 26°C, and the heat seemed to get the better of him. As Jake Paul continued speaking on stage, sweat began soaking through his suit jacket. Dark sweat marks appeared under his arms, and the moment quickly spread across social media. Many viewers could not look away from what they called an awkward wardrobe malfunction.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Saudi intercepts drone headed to Shaybah oil field; Israeli strikes 10 Hezbollah targets in Beirut'Legitimate targets': Iran issues warning to US tech firms including Google, Amazon, Microsoft, NvidiaSafe Passage For Indian Vessels: Iran clears Indian-flagged ships in Hormuz; US, Europe, Israel face curbsSoon after, fans began sharing screenshots and clips online, reacting to the moment with surprise and jokes. What was supposed to be a serious appearance at the rally suddenly turned into a viral talking point.As Jake Paul stood on stage speaking to supporters, the heat made things uncomfortable. The sweat marks under his arms became very visible on the light colored suit jacket. Cameras captured the moment clearly, and viewers online quickly noticed it.Once the clips started circulating on social media platform X, fans began posting their reactions. Many people were shocked by how visible the sweat marks were.One fan wrote, “How is it even possible to sweat through a suit like that lmaoo?”Another person commented, “The nastiest pit stains I’ve ever seen.”A third user wrote, “Just outrageous pit stains from Jake Paul my god.”Another fan joked about his business venture and said, “Tough look for a man with a line of antiperspirant deodorant.”The comment referred to Jake Paul’s own deodorant brand called W, which he introduced in 2024. The product was marketed for people who live active lifestyles and want a strong deodorant option.When promoting the product earlier, Jake Paul explained why he decided to create it. He said he felt there were not enough modern products that avoided certain ingredients.He said, “I wanted something without parabens, artificial dyes, hormone disrupters, harsh sulfates, and less silicone… but also something that really worked.”He added, “There weren’t any options, so I decided to create the solution myself.”Despite the awkward moment going viral, Jake Paul’s appearance at the rally also included a surprising moment from Donald Trump.During his speech, Donald Trump spoke directly about Jake Paul and even suggested that he could enter politics one day.Donald Trump told the crowd, “I just want to say I predict, I’m going to make a prediction. That you will be in the not too distant future, running for political office, OK. And you have my complete and total endorsement, OK?”The unexpected comment from the president quickly became another talking point from the event. Between the political moment and the viral wardrobe mishap, Jake Paul’s rally appearance ended up becoming one of the most talked about clips online.
13 shares
😢
T
Times of India
Mar 12, 2026, 07:51 PM
Indian Opposition Seeks Removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar

Indian Opposition Seeks Removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar

NEW DELHI: With 130 Lok Sabha MPs and 63 Rajya Sabha MPs having signed the notice seeking the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, the Opposition is likely to submit it to the presiding officer through the secretariat of one of the two Houses of Parliament on Friday.It was not clear till late on Thursday evening as to which House will the notice be submitted to first. Since the Opposition will be submitting the notice to the presiding officers of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, as per sources, the notice may in all likelihood be submitted to the other House on Monday.According to rules, at least 100 MPs must sign a notice seeking the removal of the CEC in Lok Sabha, and the required strength in the Rajya Sabha is 50.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Saudi intercepts drone headed to Shaybah oil field; Israeli strikes 10 Hezbollah targets in Beirut'Legitimate targets': Iran issues warning to US tech firms including Google, Amazon, Microsoft, NvidiaSafe Passage For Indian Vessels: Iran clears Indian-flagged ships in Hormuz; US, Europe, Israel face curbsAn Opposition leader shared that even as the requisite numbers had already been reached, opposition MPs kept coming till Thursday afternoon to sign the notice. By around 1.30 pm, as many as 130 signatures had been received from members of opposition parties in Lok Sabha and 63 signatures from those in Rajya Sabha. According to sources, all INDIA bloc parties have signed the notice. Besides this, MPs from AAP, which is not part of the INDIA bloc, have also signed the notice.This is the first time a notice has been given seeking removal of the CEC. The nearly half a dozen charges in the notice that will be submitted by the Opposition, according to sources, range from partisan conduct of CEC to mass disenfranchisement.The notice for removal of CEC piloted byTMCfollows growing accusations from opposition parties against Gyanesh Kumar. They have accused the CEC of bias and carrying out the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in an arbitrary manner in a bid to aid the BJP.West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee has been leading protests over the SIR process in her state. Other opposition parties too have been attacking the CEC, with Rahul Gandhi steering the “vote chori” campaign.The process for removing the CEC is similar to that for removal of a Supreme Court judge, and the incumbent can be removed only on “grounds of proven misbehaviour or incapacity”.The fact that the BJP alliance has a majority in both houses makes the move a non-starter, but it allows the Opposition to register its joint protest against the CEC.
23 shares
😐
T
Times of India
Mar 12, 2026, 06:35 PM
Google Combines Fiber Internet Provider with Astound Broadband in Deal Backed by Stonepeak

Google Combines Fiber Internet Provider with Astound Broadband in Deal Backed by Stonepeak

Googlehas announced that it will combine GFiber with Astound Broadband in a deal backed by infrastructure investment firm Stonepeak. The tech giant, which is owned by Alphabet, is taking this action to establish a separate fiber internet provider with a wider national network reach.As per the agreement, Alphabet will remain a significant minority shareholder in the combined company, while Stonepeak will hold a majority stake. According to the companies, the deal is meant to help expand fiber broadband services and supply more funding to accelerate network expansion.Google announced in a blog post that the existing GFiber executive team will continue to lead the combined business. The companies said the deal will bring together GFiber’s metropolitan fiber networks with Astound’s infrastructure and operational capabilities to form a broader platform for high-speed internet services.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Saudi intercepts drone headed to Shaybah oil field; Israeli strikes 10 Hezbollah targets in Beirut'Legitimate targets': Iran issues warning to US tech firms including Google, Amazon, Microsoft, NvidiaSafe Passage For Indian Vessels: Iran clears Indian-flagged ships in Hormuz; US, Europe, Israel face curbsThe transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of this year.How this deal will help Google expand fibre infrastructureThe companies' executives stated that the partnership aims to enhance fiber deployment and broaden internet access in more American communities.Ruth Porat, president and chief investment officer at Alphabet and Google, said the deal marks the next stage of GFiber's development.“Building on GFiber’s success as a leading independent US fiber internet provider, this is an exciting next phase of their growth. GFiber will now have the opportunity to provide better internet access to more communities across the country as they combine with Stonepeak’s Astound business, while continuing to provide their award winning customer experience,"Porat said.Dinni Jain, chief executive officer of GFiber, said the partnership aligns with the company’s long-term effort to expand fiber connectivity."GFiber has always been about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for internet speed and service. This partnership with Astound and Stonepeak is the next step in our decade-long mission to redefine what customers can expect from their internet provider,"Jain noted.Andrew Thomas, senior managing director at Stonepeak, said the deal would combine complementary networks and teams to support growing demand for next-generation connectivity.“We are excited to be working with GFiber and Alphabet on this transaction,”Thomas said, adding that the partnership could help the combined company serve millions of customers.
41 shares
😐
Akila News logo
Akila News
Mar 12, 2026, 06:19 PM
Gujarat BJP President Embarks on Three-Day Tour of South Gujarat

Gujarat BJP President Embarks on Three-Day Tour of South Gujarat

Gandhinagar: Bharatiya Janata Party Gujarat State President Jagdishbhai Vishwakarma will be on a three-day tour of three districts of South Gujarat from Friday, 13th March, 2026 to Sunday, 15th March, 2026. During this tour, he will participate in various meetings and conventions with the office bearers of the organization, MPs, MLAs and booth level workers of Valsad, Dang and Surat districts. 13th and 14th March - Valsad and Dang District Programmes: The tour of the State President will begin with a meeting with the workers of Valsad district at Killa Pardi on the evening of 13th March at 06:30 hour. Then on 14th March at 09:00 hour, he will visit and visit Shrimad Rajchandra Mission at Dharampur. In the morning at 10:00 hour, he will address the booth committee workers convention of Dharampur Vidhan Sabha. In the afternoon, he will hold a meeting with the office bearers and elected representatives of the district at 2.30 pm and 3.45 pm at Aaha in Dang district.
92 shares
😐
T
Times of India
Mar 12, 2026, 05:45 PM
CPM MLA Criticizes G Sudhakaran for Announcing Independent Candidacy

CPM MLA Criticizes G Sudhakaran for Announcing Independent Candidacy

12Kottayam: G Sudhakaran received special consideration from the party that no one else did, said Ambalappuzha MLA H Salam.He was speaking to reporters at CPM Ambalappuzha area committee office after Sudhakaran announced his intention to contest as an independent in the Ambalappuzha constituency."The party does not announce candidates based on discussions on TV news channels. Even V S Achuthanandan did not react this way. Keeping someone like him from leaving is crucial for the CPM. This is an obsession for electoral politics. He should have remembered (his brother) Bhuvaneshwaran before taking the decision," said Salam."The party will strongly oppose his stance. He announced his independent candidacy anticipating UDF support.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Saudi intercepts drone headed to Shaybah oil field; Israeli strikes 10 Hezbollah targets in Beirut'Legitimate targets': Iran issues warning to US tech firms including Google, Amazon, Microsoft, NvidiaSafe Passage For Indian Vessels: Iran clears Indian-flagged ships in Hormuz; US, Europe, Israel face curbsNo one will leave the party with him. The party will inform the public of its policies," said Salam."Sudhakaran himself taught how to deal with such matters and the same approach will be used here. The party took action against the person who insulted his father. I was the first to visit him in the hospital when he was injured. Due to other commitments, I could not visit Sudhakaran's house with district committee members," said Salam.
51 shares
😢
Akila News logo
Akila News
Mar 12, 2026, 05:43 PM
Rahul Gandhi to Make Historic Announcement to Woo Back Dalit Voters to Congress

Rahul Gandhi to Make Historic Announcement to Woo Back Dalit Voters to Congress

Lucknow: The bugle for Uttar Pradesh's 2027 assembly elections has already been blown. To woo Dalit voters, who constitute 22 per cent of the state's population, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will attend Kanshi Ram's birth anniversary celebrations at Lucknow's Indira Gandhi Pratishthan tomorrow, March 13. At the event, Rahul Gandhi is likely to make a "historic announcement" to the Dalit community, aimed directly at wooing Dalits back to the Congress fold by taking advantage of the BSP's dwindling base. The Congress believes that it is impossible to reach the throne of power in UP without bringing back Dalits, who were its traditional vote bank before the 1990s. On the other hand, the Samajwadi Party is also trying to consolidate its hold among Dalits by celebrating the day as'PDA Day '. There is a competition between the SP and the Congress to prove the "true interests" of Dalits.
25 shares
😢
Akila News logo
Akila News
Mar 12, 2026, 05:37 PM
Speaker Om Birla Reiterates Commitment to Fairness After No-Confidence Motion Rejected

Speaker Om Birla Reiterates Commitment to Fairness After No-Confidence Motion Rejected

New Delhi: After the no-confidence motion moved by the opposition was rejected, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has once again taken charge of the house. Returning to his chair, he clarified that the proceedings of the house are conducted only according to established rules and procedures. Birla noted that the house had a marathon 12-hour discussion on the motion against him. During this period, the opposition questioned his impartiality and alleged that the voice of opposition members was being stifled. Addressing the house, the speaker emotionally declared that the Lok Sabha represents the wishes of 1.4 billion citizens of the country. He stressed that his constant endeavour has been to ensure that every member of the house gets a full and equal opportunity to express his views. He explained that he always encourages not only experienced MPs but also new members who are hesitant to participate in the proceedings. According to Birla, it is the collective responsibility of every member of the house to maintain the dignity of the house.
49 shares
😢
Akila News logo
Akila News
Mar 12, 2026, 05:33 PM
Congress Party Suffers Another Setback in Maharashtra with Senior Leader Rohit Tilak's Resignation

Congress Party Suffers Another Setback in Maharashtra with Senior Leader Rohit Tilak's Resignation

The Congress party in Maharashtra has suffered another major setback. Amid growing internal discontent in Pune, Lokmanya Tilak's great-grandson and senior leader Rohit Tilak has resigned from the party. His decision has created a new challenge for the Congress organization in Pune. In recent months, the Congress party seems to be weakening as many prominent leaders are leaving the party. Earlier, former MLA from Kasba Peth Ravindra Dhangekar, former MLA from Bhor Sangram Thopte and former MLA from Purandar Sanjay Jagtap have also left the party. The Congress party in Maharashtra has suffered another major setback. Amid growing internal discontent in Pune, Lokmanya Tilak's great-grandson and senior leader Rohit Tilak has resigned from the party. His decision has created a new challenge for the Congress organization in Pune. In recent months, the Congress party seems to be weakening as many prominent leaders are leaving the party. Earlier, former MLA from Kasba Peth, Ravindra Tilak, former MLA from Bhor, Sanjay Thopte and former MLA from Purandar Sangram have also left the party.
98 shares
😢
Akila News logo
Akila News
Mar 12, 2026, 05:33 PM
Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei Issues Ultimatum to US, Gulf Countries

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei Issues Ultimatum to US, Gulf Countries

Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei's very aggressive stance: stern warning to permanently close the Strait of Hormuz and remove US military bases from the Gulf countries: open threat to collect compensation from the enemy countries or destroy their assets: Mojtaba's call to the Gulf countries to leave America's side and close military bases in revenge for the blood of the martyrs (NewsFirst)
14 shares
😢
Akila News logo
Akila News
Mar 12, 2026, 05:29 PM
Bill Clinton's Viral Moment: Pushing His Wife Through NYC Traffic

Bill Clinton's Viral Moment: Pushing His Wife Through NYC Traffic

New York: Bill and Hillary Clinton, the most powerful couple in American politics, are currently in the news for a funny and somewhat awkward situation on the streets of New York City. A video that has gone viral on social media shows former President Bill Clinton pushing his wife, Hillary Clinton, through traffic at a busy intersection in New York. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton backed away from the sudden push and raised her hands in protest. The whole incident. The Clinton couple was walking to meet their daughter, Chelsea Clinton, after attending an event. Meanwhile, Bill Clinton jokingly pushed Hillary to the crosswalk with the intention of crossing the road (jaywalking) before the traffic signal changed. Hillary immediately responded by saying, "No, no, no. Don't do this. It's not a good idea." Bill replied to Clinton with a smile, while the couple joked about changing the signal after a few days.
37 shares
😢
Akila News logo
Akila News
Mar 12, 2026, 05:16 PM
Oil Tankers Catch Fire in Iraqi Waters Amid Ongoing Conflict Between Iran and US-Backed Forces

Oil Tankers Catch Fire in Iraqi Waters Amid Ongoing Conflict Between Iran and US-Backed Forces

New Delhi: Amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia, two oil tankers caught fire in Iraqi waters. Reports suggest that the attack was the result of a series of attacks linked to Iran. The incident comes amid a wave of attacks on oil and transportation infrastructure in the region. Iran has warned that the price of oil in the global market could reach $200 per barrel. The war, which began nearly two weeks ago after a joint US and Israeli airstrike on Iran, has so far killed nearly 2,000 people. The conflict has severely affected global energy markets and sea transport. According to the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), more than 1,100 children have been killed or injured in the conflict. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump claimed during an election rally in Kentucky that the US has won the war, though he said on Thursday that the US must complete its mission. Crude oil prices hit nearly $120 per barrel earlier in the week, followed by a slight drop in global oil prices.
99 shares
😢
A
Akila News
Mar 12, 2026, 05:02 PM
UNSC Adopts Resolution Condemning Iran's Attacks on GCC Countries and Jordan

UNSC Adopts Resolution Condemning Iran's Attacks on GCC Countries and Jordan

New Delhi: An important diplomatic step has been taken against Iran in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). India has sponsored the resolution which strongly condemns the attack by Iran on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Jordan. The resolution demands Iran to immediately stop all attacks and mentions its threats to close the Strait of Hormuz as a serious concern. The move is seen as a global concern over the growing instability and maritime security in the Middle East. The 15-member Security Council adopted the resolution. 13 countries voted in favour of the resolution while no vote was cast against it. However, veto-wielding permanent members China and Russia abstained from voting. The United States currently holds the presidency of the UN Security Council. The resolution led by Bahrain was co-sponsored by a total of 135 countries including India. It includes Australia, Canada, Germany, Pakistan, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
42 shares
😢
The Financial Express logo
The Financial Express
Mar 12, 2026, 04:52 PM
US Stocks Fall Sharply as Oil Prices Surge Amid Escalating Middle East Tensions

US Stocks Fall Sharply as Oil Prices Surge Amid Escalating Middle East Tensions

US stocks fell sharply on Thursday as rising oil prices and escalating tensions in the Middle East rattled investors. The surge in crude prices was due to supply disruption fears linked to the Iran war, pushed major indices lower. At around 11:30 am EST, the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped more than 600 points, while the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite both fell about 1%. Oil prices jumped after Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said today that the Strait of Hormuz should remain closed as a “tool to pressure the enemy.” West Texas Intermediate crude futures rose about 7% to around $94 per barrel. Brent crude futures also climbed 7% to roughly $99 per barrel after briefly touching the $100 mark again. The sharp rise in oil prices raised concerns that higher energy costs could push inflation higher and hurt global economic growth, weighing on equities. Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has nearly come to a standstill as the conflict in the Middle East intensifies. Energy Secretary Chris Wright told CNBC that the US Navy is “not ready” to escort oil tankers through the strategic waterway yet, though he said it may be able to do so by the end of the month. Overnight, authorities reported that three additional foreign vessels were struck in the Persian Gulf. The incidents followed attacks on three other ships on Wednesday, including one in the Strait itself. Earlier in the week, US forces sank 16 Iranian ships that were allegedly laying mines near the Strait. Traders are closely watching how the conflict could impact global markets and financial exposure to energy shocks. “The question is how many people have this on their books. Where is it being marked? Are they derivatives? We need to keep a very close eye on that as things unravel quickly,” said Joe Saluzzi, co-head of equity trading at Themis Trading to Reuters. Adam Crisafulli of Vital Knowledge said Iran’s strategy appears aimed at using oil markets to increase pressure on its rivals. “Iran’s strategy of sowing economic chaos in the Gulf is working as tankers come under attack and Hormuz stays shuttered, pushing Brent up toward $100,” said Adam Crisafulli of Vital Knowledge to CNBC. “The U.S. and Israel have military dominance and Iran’s missile/nuclear programs may be degraded, but Tehran’s hardline [government] is firmly entrenched, and it’s plan now seems to be leveraging oil to push Trump further down an offramp.” To help ease energy prices, Wright said late Wednesday that the United States will release 172 million barrels of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The supply will be delivered over about 120 days. The International Energy Agency also agreed to a coordinated global release of 400 million barrels of oil to counter supply disruptions caused by the conflict. Regardless of these measures, oil prices stayed elevated, as investors worry the war could last longer than expected. Selling pressure spread across most sectors on Thursday, with banks and technology stocks leading the declines. Morgan Stanley weighed on financial stocks after limiting withdrawals from a private credit fund. Energy companies were among the few gainers as oil prices rose. Shares of Chevron and Exxon Mobil traded higher. Stocks had already slipped on Wednesday as investors remained cautious about the impact of the US-Iran war on inflation and economic growth. Even with the recent declines, the S&P 500 is still only about 3.2% below its record high reached in January. Earlier this week, President Donald Trump said the war would end “very soon,” which briefly eased oil prices after they had surged above $100 per barrel.
55 shares
😢
Akila News logo
Akila News
Mar 12, 2026, 04:46 PM
Pakistan's Diplomatic Credibility in Question After Failing to Support Saudi Arabia

Pakistan's Diplomatic Credibility in Question After Failing to Support Saudi Arabia

Riyadh: With missiles blaring in the desert region of the Middle East, Pakistan has fallen into a diplomatic trap from which it now finds it difficult to escape. Pakistan has always claimed to maintain a'balance'in the age-old conflict between Saudi Arabia and Iran, but the current situation has opened its poles. According to that strategic agreement signed on 17 September 2025, Pakistan was to treat any attack on Saudi Arabia as its own attack. However, when Iran fired ballistic missiles at Saudi Arabia, Pakistan advised only'restraint'instead of military assistance as promised. This incident has raised big questions about Pakistan's credibility in Riyadh's power corridors. Today's visit to Riyadh by Shahbaz Sharif is no ordinary diplomatic trip, but a very important attempt to remove Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's displeasure. Pakistan is now economically dependent on Saudi Arabia's billions of dollars of investment and loans, while its proximity to Iran's second geopolitical conflict has led Pakistan to declare Ali a'martyr'if he were to attempt to stop the Saudi leader.
63 shares
😢
Akila News logo
Akila News
Mar 12, 2026, 04:33 PM
Macron Expresses Concern Over Ongoing US-Iran War, Reveals Confusion Among Allies

Macron Expresses Concern Over Ongoing US-Iran War, Reveals Confusion Among Allies

Paris: French President Emmanuel Macron has openly expressed concern at a meeting of the G-7 countries about the ongoing war between the United States and Iran. Israeli officials believe that the American president has no plans to stop the war any time soon, and that both countries are waiting for regime change in Iran. After an important video conference with the heads of the world's most powerful G-7 member countries, French President Emmanuel Macron publicly stated that no one can say what US President Donald Trump really wants in this ongoing war with Iran. What other world leaders have been saying so far only in private, Macron has now exposed on the international stage. This shows that America's allies are also very confused about the direction of this war.
87 shares
😢
Breezy Scroll logo
Breezy Scroll
Mar 12, 2026, 04:26 PM
US Military Strikes on Iran: Operation Epic Fury's Strategic Significance

US Military Strikes on Iran: Operation Epic Fury's Strategic Significance

When military operations are announced, the name attached to them often carries strategic symbolism. In the case of Operation Epic Fury, the name itself has become part of the story. U.S. President Donald Trump said he personally selected the name for the recent U.S. strikes on Iran after reviewing a list of options presented by military officials. The operation, which targeted Iranian missile and drone capabilities, was described by Trump as a limited military action designed to counter threats from Iran without escalating into a broader war. Trump’s remarks, made during a public appearance in Kentucky and later to reporters during a visit to Thermo Fisher Scientific in Cincinnati, offer a glimpse into how the White House framed the operation—and why the name “Epic Fury” stood out. What Is Operation Epic Fury? Operation Epic Fury refers to the U.S. military strikes against Iranian targets aimed at weakening the country’s missile and drone infrastructure. According to Trump, the operation focused on: Iranian missile stockpiles Drone manufacturing facilities Maritime assets linked to potential attacks in the Gulf Military infrastructure tied to Iranian regional operations The president described the mission as swift and decisive, saying it achieved its objectives quickly. “It is only good if you win,” Trump said during remarks about the operation, adding that the mission had effectively concluded within its first hour. Why Did Trump Choose the Name “Epic Fury”? Trump said the name came from a list of about 20 potential operation names presented by U.S. military generals. According to the president, most of the options failed to capture his attention. “I saw ‘Epic Fury’ and said, ‘I like that name,’” Trump told the audience, describing how he selected it from the list. He joked that the other names were so uninspiring that he was “falling asleep” while reviewing them. While the comment drew laughter from supporters, the naming of military operations is typically handled carefully by defense planners. How military operation names are usually chosen Operation names often serve several purposes: Operational clarity for military planning Public messaging about the mission’s goals Psychological signaling toward adversaries Historical branding for the operation Examples from recent decades include: Operation Desert Storm (1991 Gulf War) Operation Enduring Freedom (War in Afghanistan) Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003 Iraq War) Compared with those names, “Epic Fury” carries a more dramatic tone, emphasizing strength and retaliation. What Trump Says the Strikes Were Meant to Achieve Trump described the military action as a preventive measure rather than the beginning of a war. Speaking to reporters, he framed the strikes as what he called an “excursion”—a limited operation meant to eliminate threats while avoiding prolonged conflict. The president argued that Iran had posed a long-term threat to U.S. interests and regional allies. Key objectives outlined by Trump According to his statements, the operation aimed to: Destroy or damage thousands of Iranian missiles Disable drone manufacturing networks Reduce Iran’s ability to launch attacks Prevent escalation into a larger regional war Trump claimed U.S. forces moved quickly to neutralize missile stockpiles before they could be launched. He suggested Iran possessed 7,000–8,000 missiles, though this figure has not been independently confirmed. How Iran Was Allegedly Caught Off Guard Trump also claimed the strikes surprised Iranian forces. “They didn’t know what hit them,” he said, suggesting the operation unfolded faster than Iran expected. The president said the rapid timeline allowed U.S. forces to achieve their goals before Iranian defenses could respond. However, military analysts caution that early claims of success in military operations often evolve as more information becomes available. For context, newsrooms should monitor updates from: U.S. Department of Defense Iranian state media Independent satellite imagery analysis These sources can help verify the actual damage caused by the strikes. Why the Operation Matters for the Middle East The strikes come amid heightened tensions across the Middle East, particularly involving Iran , Israel , and U.S. forces stationed in the region. Iran has long been accused by Washington of supporting armed groups and developing missile capabilities that threaten regional stability. The United States maintains military bases and naval assets across the Gulf to deter attacks and protect shipping routes. Potential implications of the strikes Experts say the operation could have several outcomes: Short-term deterrence against Iranian missile launches Possible retaliation from Iranian-aligned groups Increased tensions in the Gulf region Diplomatic fallout between Washington and Tehran Why Operation Names Matter Politically Beyond military planning, operation names often become part of the political narrative surrounding a conflict. A name like Epic Fury can shape how the public perceives the mission. Messaging impact of the name Operation names can: Reinforce a government’s strength and resolve Create a memorable label for media coverage Influence domestic political support Send psychological signals to adversaries In this case, Trump’s decision to publicly describe how he chose the name adds a personal dimension to the story. It also reflects his broader political style—combining military messaging with off-the-cuff remarks. What Happens Next? While Trump described the operation as largely complete, the broader consequences remain uncertain. Military strikes rarely exist in isolation. Iran could respond through: Cyber operations Regional proxy groups Missile or drone retaliation Diplomatic escalation International observers will be watching closely to see whether Operation Epic Fury marks the end of a limited strike campaign—or the beginning of a longer confrontation. TL;DR U.S. President Donald Trump said he personally chose the name Operation Epic Fury for strikes on Iran. The name came from a list of around 20 options presented by military generals. The operation targeted Iranian missile stockpiles, drone facilities, and maritime assets. Trump described the mission as a limited action meant to prevent a broader war. Analysts say the long-term consequences will depend on Iran’s response and regional tensions. Tags: Operation Epic Fury
46 shares
😢
Live Hindustan logo
Live Hindustan
Mar 12, 2026, 04:26 PM
Delhi Assembly Budget Session to Begin on March 23, Focuses on Infrastructure and Education

Delhi Assembly Budget Session to Begin on March 23, Focuses on Infrastructure and Education

The budget session of the Delhi assembly is expected to begin on March 23. Officials have informed that the proposal to hold the session will be placed in the cabinet meeting which will be chaired by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. On the first day of the session, the Economic Survey of Delhi will be tabled. The next day, the annual budget for the financial year 2026-27 will be presented in the house. According to a senior official, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta presented her first budget in the assembly in 2025, which was Rs 1 lakh crore. This year's budget allocation may be slightly higher than last year. According to officials, the second budget of the BJP government in Delhi is likely to focus on infrastructure, environmental initiatives and education. Meanwhile, the Delhi government has asked departments not to submit spending proposals just before the end of the current financial year. A memorandum has also been issued in this regard asking departments to submit spending proposals before March 23.
60 shares
😐
D
Deccan Herald
Mar 12, 2026, 04:21 PM
AI Suggests Congress Could Win Assam Election with 'Karnataka Model'

AI Suggests Congress Could Win Assam Election with 'Karnataka Model'

Bengaluru: Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar said Thursday that an Artificial Intelligence (AI) tool told him that Congress could win Assam by using the 'Karnataka Model'. ANYTIME, ANYWHERE. Experience a more refined e-paper today READ NOW ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Shivakumar said this in the Legislative Council while replying to a question by BJP MLC Bharathi Shetty who asked the government about its plans to use AI to make the administration more efficient. " I recently went to Assam . I asked (AI) how to win the Assam election. It gave me a report. But can we really do an election based on that?" Shivakumar said. Also Read:'Centre must find solution': D K Shivakumar on LPG crisis Also Read:'Centre must find solution': Karnataka Deputy CM D K Shivakumar on LPG crisis; says will discuss matter in state cabinet In a banter, BJP MLC N Ravikumar said Shivakumar would have his own strategy for the Assam election. ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT "Let's step out. We'll sit together. It (AI) will say, you do the 'Karnataka Model' and you'll win the Assam election. But can that be done?" he said, laughing. Shivakumar, who is the Karnataka Congress president, is an observer for the Assam polls. The Congress government here has been pitching the 'Karnataka Model' based on the five 'guarantee' schemes, espousing the concept of universal basic income. Also Read:Shivakumar hosts gala dinner to mark 6 years as Karnataka Congress chief Also Read:Shivakumar hosts gala dinner to mark 6 years as Karnataka Congress chief Shivakumar said the use of AI in governance needs "big research" before making any decision. "AI is being discussed globally. There was a big summit that the PM organised in Delhi. The CBSE is introducing AI from Class 3. Even the judiciary is discussing the use of AI in courts," he said. "But in the government, we're still unable to handle man-made things. So, without research, we can't decide on AI," Shivakumar said. Shivakumar said his daughter recommended the use of AI when he was talking to his personal assiatant about preparing a speech. "My daughter told me to ask ChatGPT. I got a lot of information," he said. "But authentication is problematic." ADVERTISEMENT Published 12 March 2026, 21:51 IST Karnataka News Congress Karnataka Politics DK Shivakumar Assam Assembly Elections 2026 Follow us on : Follow Us Read More
23 shares
😢
Akila News logo
Akila News
Mar 12, 2026, 04:16 PM
Indian Government Commits to Tribal Development with Historic Budget Allocation

Indian Government Commits to Tribal Development with Historic Budget Allocation

Gandhinagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been continuously striving to provide every facility to the tribal people of the state, for which the central government is successfully implementing many important schemes. The Prime Minister has also announced a package of Rs.2 lakh crore in the next five years for the uplift of the tribals through the Janjatiya Kalyan Yojana. The state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi has done a great job for tribal upliftment by allocating a historic budget of Rs.35,782 crore for the Tribal Development Department, Tribal Development Minister Naresh Patel said in the Legislative Assembly. The Minister said that when the state of Gujarat was separated from Maharashtra in 1961, the combined budget of the Tribal Department and the Social Welfare Department was only Rs.58 crore. In the past 35 to 40 years, only 6 to 6.5 thousand crore rupees were spent. But in 2007, the then Chief Minister and Prime Minister of the country Modi announced a package of Rs.15 thousand crore for the overall development of the entire tribal society.
9 shares
😐
Akila News logo
Akila News
Mar 12, 2026, 04:14 PM
Iran's New Supreme Leader Vows Revenge Against Martyrs' Deaths, Threatens US Military Bases

Iran's New Supreme Leader Vows Revenge Against Martyrs' Deaths, Threatens US Military Bases

Tehran: As soon as he took the reins of power as Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei caused a sensation around the world. In his first official message, he made it clear that Iran is determined to avenge the deaths of its martyrs and innocent children. Mojtaba, the son of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, declared that any martyrdom will not go in vain and the enemies will have to pay a heavy price. This statement has raised concerns in Western countries and especially in the Israel-US camp. Mojtaba has made a big statement about Hormuz, which is considered to be strategically very important. He said that Iran does not want to harm global trade by closing this international waterway, but attacks will continue on all US military bases located in the Middle East. His order is that until the US vacates all its military bases in the region, Iranian missiles and drones will not stop. Donald Trump announced that the intensity of the US strikes on the Mojtaba sites could increase in the coming days.
19 shares
😢
Deccan Herald logo
Deccan Herald
Mar 12, 2026, 04:04 PM
Karnataka BJP President Dismisses Congress' Claim of Tax Devolution Injustice

Karnataka BJP President Dismisses Congress' Claim of Tax Devolution Injustice

Bengaluru: Karnataka BJP president BY Vijayendra on Thursday said in the Assembly that the Congress’ claim on Karnataka facing injustice under tax devolution was “a narrative built on fabricated claims”. ANYTIME, ANYWHERE. Experience a more refined e-paper today READ NOW ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Vijayendra was speaking during a discussion on the 2026-27 Budget presented by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on March 6. Also Read:'Healthy health minister, sick dept': Ashoka's jibe at Dinesh Also Read:'Health minister is healthy, but his department is sick': R Ashoka attacks Dinesh Gundu Rao over shortage of medicines and doctors "In the last 2-3 years, the state government has repeatedly claimed that the Centre is treating Karnataka unfairly and that the state is being discriminated against. The slogan 'our tax, our right' has been raised many times both inside and outside the Assembly. Through advertisements, the government has tried to mislead people," Vijayendra said. "It is often claimed that when Karnataka contributes ₹100 in taxes, only ₹15 comes back. When the government says Karnataka sends ₹4.3 lakh crore to the Centre, it includes both direct and indirect taxes," Vijayendra said. ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Vijayendra said major companies like Infosys and Wipro are headquartered in Bengaluru. "They pay their entire countrywide corporate tax in Karnataka, even though their revenue is generated by consumers and employees across all of India. Therefore, not all the tax generated should be considered as originating solely from Karnataka," he argued. "When people repeatedly claim that only ₹15 comes back for every ₹100 contributed, they do not take into account the expenditure made by the Centre on sectors such as defence, national highways, and railways," Vijayendra said. Vijayendra also said that discussions around the federal system must consider the constitutional principle of redistribution. "Under this system, revenue collected from developed states such as Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu is redistributed to less developed and highly-populated states so that all of them can progress together," he said. "Under the Congress-led UPA government in 2014, Karnataka contributed ₹1.40 lakh crore to the central pool, but received only ₹28,000 crore through fund allocation," he pointed out. Maharashtra, Vijayendra said, gives ₹6.5 lakh crore to the divisible pool, but gets about ₹89,726 crore. "Even that amounts to ₹13–14 for every ₹100 contributed. Maharashtra is ruled by the NDA, and doesn't get ₹40-50 back for every ₹100," he said. Comparing Karnataka with states like Rajasthan or Uttar Pradesh is unscientific, Vijayendra said. "Developed states cannot be compared with lesser developed ones like Bihar. "In 2014, under the UPA government, Karnataka received ₹19,000 crore while Bihar got ₹36,000 crore and Uttar Pradesh ₹66,000 crore," he said. ADVERTISEMENT Published 12 March 2026, 21:34 IST Karnataka News Karnataka Karnataka Politics BY Vijayendra Follow us on : Follow Us Read More
12 shares
😢
E
East Mojo
Mar 12, 2026, 04:02 PM
Nagaland Government Proposes Permanent Police Outpost Along Assam Border Amid Concerns Over Neutrality

Nagaland Government Proposes Permanent Police Outpost Along Assam Border Amid Concerns Over Neutrality

Kohima: A proposal to establish a permanent police outpost along the Assam–Nagaland border is currently under process, Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton informed the House during the fifth day of the eighth session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly on Thursday. Raising the issue during the session, MLA Achumbemo Kikon expressed concern over the situation in border areas and alleged that neutral forces such as the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) stationed there were not maintaining neutrality. He claimed that instead of taking a neutral stand, the forces were protecting Assam residents, whom he described as illegal immigrants, and had also stopped the operation of petrol pumps in certain areas. Investment opportunities Nagaland Kikon said the Government of Nagaland currently has minimal presence in the border areas, with only limited deployment of Nagaland Police and the India Reserve Battalion (IRB). Referring to the 1972 interim agreement between the two states, he said the arrangement required maintaining status quo and the presence of state machinery in the disputed areas. He also raised concerns regarding the Seed Farm at Merapani, stating that the property belongs to the Nagaland government but repair works and fund allocation have been disrupted. He urged the government to take urgent steps to protect the farm and other properties in the disputed area, warning that the state could risk losing its land and assets. PREMIUM STORIES FROM EASTMOJO ‹ Why the Mizo language’s constitutional recognition is sparking debateFor decades, the aspiration to include the Mizo language in the Eighth Schedule of the...Read → How rail link is transforming Mizoram’s economyIn a hill state where food supplies have long depended on winding mountain roads and...Read → Beyond religion: Rethinking tribal rights and constitutional safeguardsThe year 2026 marks the twentieth anniversary of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, which...Read → Protests aren’t enough: India needs a clear anti-racism statuteRacial discrimination is not a new phenomenon in India. People from the Northeast have long...Read → Vungzagin Valte: A life ended by a violence that never endedThe death of Vungzagin Valte on 21 February 2026, nearly three years after he was...Read → › 2000+ readers have backed us to keep journalism free. You can too. SUPPORT US (function(){ var w=document.querySelector('.emm-carousel-scroll'); if(!w)return; var p=document.querySelector('.emm-carousel-prev'), n=document.querySelector('.emm-carousel-next'), s=296; function u(){ p.hidden=w.scrollLeft<=0; n.hidden=w.scrollLeft+w.clientWidth>=w.scrollWidth-1; } p.addEventListener('click',function(){w.scrollBy({left:-s,behavior:'smooth'});}); n.addEventListener('click',function(){w.scrollBy({left:s,behavior:'smooth'});}); w.addEventListener('scroll',u); u();})(); Kikon further suggested raising Village Guards in the border areas to strengthen local security. He also asked the government about the number of police outposts set up by Assam along the border and the deployment of forest guards in the disputed area belt. Cultural exchange programs Responding to the queries, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister in charge of Border Affairs Yanthungo Patton informed the House that after 1972, Nagaland had withdrawn all its outposts from the disputed areas following the agreement, while Assam had not withdrawn all of its 13 outposts. He added that Assam currently has 63 permanent Assam Police outposts along the Assam–Nagaland border. Patton informed that a temporary police outpost has been set up at present, while a proposal to establish a permanent outpost is under process and will be taken up at the earliest. As for the establishment of a permanent police outpost at Lio-Longchym, he said the matter is currently under examination by the State Government. Patton also informed the House that there are 102 Naga villages located along the Assam–Nagaland border and the department is examining the deployment of additional forces in the area. Investment opportunities Nagaland In another supplementary question raised by MLA, Achumbemo Kikon regarding whether any action has been taken by the concerned department on the issue of extending a power line from the Nagaland side to Tchunjanphen and neighboring villages in the border areas, Minister for Power & Parliamentary Affairs, K.G. Kenye stated that the department’s attempt to provide electricity supply has been stalled. He explained that the Right of Way (RoW) for the proposed line passes through the disputed area, with a larger portion falling under Assam. However, he assured that the department is actively exploring an alternative route to provide power supply to the area. Dear Reader, Every day, our team at EastMojo travels through rain, rough roads, and remote hills to bring you stories that matter – stories from your town, your people, your Northeast. We do this because we believe in truthful, independent journalism. No big corporate backing, no government pressure – just honest reporting by local journalists who live and breathe the same air you do. But to keep doing this work, we need you. Your small contribution helps us pay our reporters fairly, reach places others ignore, and keep asking the tough questions. If you believe the Northeast deserves its own fearless voice, stand with us. Support independent journalism. Be a Member. Thank you, Karma Paljor Editor-in-Chief, eastmojo.com BE A MEMBER Premium 👑 Why the Mizo language’s constitutional recognition is sparking debate Premium 👑 How rail link is transforming Mizoram’s economy Premium 👑 Beyond religion: Rethinking tribal rights and constitutional safeguards Premium 👑 Protests aren’t enough: India needs a clear anti-racism statute Manipur Vungzagin Valte: A life ended by a violence that never ended Premium 👑 AI maps Deepor Beel pollution hotspots, flags water quality decline Premium 👑 Study links crop-guarding squads to rise in elephant deaths in Assam Premium 👑 When politics meets humanity: Remembering Ricky AJ Syngkon Kikon also pointed out that several villages in the border areas, which are recognised by the state government during geo-tagging falls under Assam and should be properly demarcated during the census exercise. Sharing the concern, Minister for PHE & Cooperation, Jacob Zhimomi suggested writing to the concerned ministry or department to ensure real-time population data and correct geographical mapping of Nagaland. This, he said, would help ensure that the implementation of government schemes is not hindered and that people in border areas are not deprived of basic facilities and the benefits of government programmes. Cultural exchange programs Meanwhile, Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change and Village Guards C.L. John said the department is considering a proposal to undertake plantation drives in the disputed area belt. He added that forest guards could be deployed in the area if required. Also Read | Nagaland govt assures adequate LPG supply; cautions against hoarding Related WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Share @media ( min-width: 250px ){.newspack_global_ad.sidebar_article-2{min-height: 100px;}}
43 shares
😢
A
Amar Ujala
Mar 12, 2026, 04:00 PM
Israel-Iran War: Conflict Intensifies Amid Tensions in Gulf Region

Israel-Iran War: Conflict Intensifies Amid Tensions in Gulf Region

Israel-Iran War Live Updates: The ongoing conflict in West Asia is getting more fierce day by day. Iran, which is being fiercely attacked by the US and Israel, is also retaliating strongly. The conflict has now entered its thirteenth day amid the roar of missiles and drones. Attacks on ships are continuing in Homurz. The entire region is in the grip of tension. US President Trump's tough attitude towards war and the increasing conflict in the Gulf countries is proving to be a big crisis for global politics. India has said that the government is keeping a close eye on the rapidly changing situation. Read all the updates related to the ongoing conflict in West Asia in this live blog of Amar Ujala.
68 shares
😢
Ganashakti Patrika logo
Ganashakti Patrika
Mar 12, 2026, 03:50 PM
Opposition Set to Move No-Confidence Motion Against National Election Commissioner

Opposition Set to Move No-Confidence Motion Against National Election Commissioner

The opposition is set to move a no-confidence motion against National Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, sources said. The opposition is likely to move a no-confidence motion against Gyanesh in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha on Thursday or Friday. According to sources, 120 Lok Sabha MPs and 60 Rajya Sabha MPs have signed the no-confidence motion.
81 shares
😐
Dainik Statesman logo
Dainik Statesman
Mar 12, 2026, 03:39 PM
India Increases Booking Interval for LPG Cylinders Amid War Situation in West Asia

India Increases Booking Interval for LPG Cylinders Amid War Situation in West Asia

Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri told Parliament that in the context of the war situation in West Asia, the booking interval for LPG cylinders in rural and remote areas has been increased to 45 days. However, in the case of urban areas, this gap has been kept at 25 days. The minister said that the booking system has been regulated to prevent black-marketing of cooking gas. Initially, the rule was to book a second cylinder after 21 days of booking. Later, the time limit was increased to 25 days. At present, the same rule is in place in cities, but to book a second cylinder in rural areas, sources said. This decision has been taken so that there is a facility of various alternative fuels, including dry wood, in rural areas. He also told the Lok Sabha that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel and kerosene in the country. LPG is also in sufficient stock. He also assured that there is no reason to panic about the fuel. About 60 percent of India's total demand for LPG is imported from abroad, a large part of which comes through the Strait of Hormuz. On 28 March, the minister said that the situation has affected the country's LPG production, but he has been given instructions to increase the supply
40 shares
😐
Ganashakti Patrika logo
Ganashakti Patrika
Mar 12, 2026, 03:36 PM
CPI(M) Organizes Mass Rallies Across India Demanding Justice and Better Livelihoods

CPI(M) Organizes Mass Rallies Across India Demanding Justice and Better Livelihoods

The CPI (M) is holding mass rallies in different parts of the country demanding justice for the victims of the lynching of a woman tied to a pole in Bihar. In addition, the CPI (M) has organised protests at three places in Madhubani district. CPI (M) will hold a'Jan Aakrosh'rally at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan on March 24. Preparations for the rally are underway in the north Indian state. The main rally is in Tharali, Uttarakhand, at an altitude of 7,500 feet above sea level. The main rally in the state left from Dehradun on March 8. CPI (M) politburo member Biju Krishnan and other leaders are in the jatha. Apart from demanding livelihood for farmers and labourers, activists of projects like ASHA, Mid Day Meal or Anganwadi are participating in large numbers. Another jatha has been taken out from Sur Singh village in Punjab's Tarn Taran. CPI (M) politburo member Nilotpal Basu has taken part in three villages in Bihar's Madhubani district. On March 26, Ashok Yadav, politburo member of Ramlila Maidan, explained the Ramlila rally's rationale to the European
31 shares
😐
Loksatta logo
Loksatta
Mar 12, 2026, 03:31 PM
Shiv Sena Dispute Reaches Supreme Court as Both Factions Prepare for Final Argument

Shiv Sena Dispute Reaches Supreme Court as Both Factions Prepare for Final Argument

Eknath Shinde, the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, led the biggest rebellion within the Shiv Sena in 2022. He walked out with 40 MLAs and directly challenged the Shiv Sena leadership i.e. Uddhav Thackeray. When the dispute between the two parties went to the door of the Election Commission, the Election Commission gave both the name Shiv Sena and the bow and arrow with the party symbol to Eknath Shinde. Eknath Shinde was the Chief Minister of Maharashtra from June 2022 to October 2024. Now he is the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Meanwhile, the Shiv Sena's dispute has reached the Supreme Court. The case has not been decided for the last three years. Now both the factions are ready for the final argument, but the court has given the next date. On Thursday, Kapil Sibal argued on behalf of Shiv Sena. Both the factions have shown readiness for the final argument. However, after hearing both the sides, the Supreme Court has now said that the next date of hearing. In the original 2022 Shiv Sena defection, 40 MLAs including the then Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, have resigned from the Maha Vikas Aghadi government.
95 shares
😢
L
Live Hindustan
Mar 12, 2026, 03:29 PM
Iran's Supreme Leader Threatens to Close Strait of Hormuz Amid Global Oil Market Turmoil

Iran's Supreme Leader Threatens to Close Strait of Hormuz Amid Global Oil Market Turmoil

Iran's new Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei has indicated that pressure to close the Strait of Hormuz could be used. This was his first public message since taking office, broadcast on state television on Thursday. The new leader's statement comes at a time when the global oil market is in turmoil due to Iran's continued attacks on shipping and energy infrastructure in the Persian Gulf. The price of Brent crude oil in the international market has again topped $100 per barrel. In his address to the nation, Iran's new Supreme Leader Mohammad Mojtaba Khamenei called for national unity. He said that the Strait of Hormuz would be closed to pressure enemies. He made it clear that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed. He described the port as a means of pressure on Iran's enemies. He stressed the importance of continuing to maintain friendly relations with the United States, but called for an immediate cessation of military talks.
48 shares
😢
L
Live Hindustan
Mar 12, 2026, 03:27 PM
UP CM Yogi Holds Meeting on Diesel-Petrol and LPG Supply Amid Concerns Over Shortages

UP CM Yogi Holds Meeting on Diesel-Petrol and LPG Supply Amid Concerns Over Shortages

UP News: CM Yogi held a high-level meeting regarding diesel-petrol and LPG in UP. On Thursday, the Chief Minister held a detailed review meeting with senior officials of the government and top officials of the oil companies and reviewed the current demand and supply situation of LPG in the state. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed to ensure uninterrupted and smooth supply of LPG in the state.
70 shares
😐
T
The Financial Express
Mar 12, 2026, 02:59 PM
India Struggles to Replace Disrupted Crude Supplies Amid Global Market Tightening

India Struggles to Replace Disrupted Crude Supplies Amid Global Market Tightening

India may struggle to replace disrupted crude supplies without incurring higher costs as Asian refiners compete for alternative barrels in a tightening global market, according to Zhuwei Wang, director of research & analysis at S&P Global Energy. “India will unlikely to find alternative supplies without pushing costs higher as the country is competing with other Asian countries to find replacement barrels for Middle East crude,” Wang said, highlighting the risks to India’s supply chain amid escalating geopolitical tensions. India has significantly increased its dependence on Russian crude since 2022, with around 35–40% of its crude imports now sourced from Russia, compared with less than 2% before before the outbreak of the Ukraine war. Russian oil imports to India had climbed to around 1–1.5 million barrels per day (bpd) in recent months as refiners capitalised on discounted supplies. However, shipments from Russia fell sharply after US sanctions announced in November last year, before stabilising somewhat following a recent US waiver allowing certain Russian cargoes to continue flowing to India. Wang said replacing Russian or Middle Eastern crude barrels will not be straightforward. Alternative supplies from West Africa, Brazil, the US, Canada and some Latin American grades often involve longer voyages, higher freight rates and, in some cases, lower refinery compatibility compared with Middle Eastern grades, which remain the mainstay for Asian refiners. The warning comes as crude delivered to Asian markets crossed the $100 per barrel mark amid supply disruptions linked to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy chokepoint. “Our base case is that Hormuz flows remain near zero until the end of next week and then gradually recover,” Wang said. Even after shipments resume, restoring normal supply chains could take time. “The Hormuz closure impacts not only flat prices but also supply chain efficiency once the Strait reopens, including restarting crude production, logistics, terminal congestion and refinery restarts. Normalising trade flows could take months,” he added. India is expected to remain the fastest-growing oil demand centre globally, with demand projected to increase by 0.2–0.3 million barrels per day annually. In a tight supply environment, rising demand could intensify competition for available cargoes across Asia. “Asian refiners including India have been struggling to replace Middle East crude and have started to cut refinery runs,” Wang said. Strategic reserves and commercial inventories may help cushion short-term supply disruptions but do not fundamentally change the region’s structural dependence on imported crude. If Asian exporters reduce refinery runs to balance crude availability, about 11% of regional refining throughput—around 3.3 million barrels per day—could be cut, Wang said. Competition for available barrels could intensify among India, China, Japan and South Korea, all major importers of crude. China is relatively better positioned due to its larger strategic petroleum reserves and pipeline access to Russia and Central Asia, while Japan and South Korea would rely more heavily on strategic and commercial inventories. India’s strategic petroleum reserves currently cover about 9–10 days of imports, though they could potentially cover around 15 days of West Asia supply disruptions. “The right response is both expand strategic and commercial stocking capacity and deepen diversification of routes and supply contract types,” Wang said. Meanwhile, supply disruptions could also affect refining operations. “Gross margins can look strong where feedstock is secure, but export volumes and run rates can fall if crude access tightens, sanctions complicate payments or shipping, or the government prioritizes domestic supply,” he said. In such a scenario, India’s refining sector may shift focus toward ensuring domestic fuel availability rather than maximising exports, he added.
41 shares
😢
Dainik Statesman logo
Dainik Statesman
Mar 12, 2026, 02:59 PM
Farmer's Death in West Midnapore Sparks Political Row Over Crashing Potato Prices

Farmer's Death in West Midnapore Sparks Political Row Over Crashing Potato Prices

The death of a farmer in West Midnapore, who was in dire straits due to crashing potato prices, has sparked a political row. The family claims that the farmer committed suicide by consuming poison after suffering huge losses in potato cultivation and unable to bear the pressure of debt. According to police, the deceased has been identified as Rakhal Adi, a resident of Rangamati village in Chandrakona block number one of West Midnapore district. According to family sources, Rakhal had cultivated potatoes on about four bighas of land this year. The cultivation cost was about one lakh forty thousand rupees. He had reportedly cultivated potatoes with a loan on his wife's jewellery. Rakhal's own land is only ten kathas. His family, including his mother, wife and two children. Family sources claim that the price of potatoes started falling in the market as soon as he started picking potatoes from the field. Currently, the price of potatoes is hovering around 320 rupees per quintal. The farmers allege that the situation did not raise even a fraction of the cost of production.
68 shares
😢
Republic World logo
Republic World
Mar 12, 2026, 02:49 PM
Iran's New Supreme Leader Calls for Unity, Vengeance Against 'Aggressors'

Iran's New Supreme Leader Calls for Unity, Vengeance Against 'Aggressors'

Iran's new Supreme leader, Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, on Thursday urged neghbouring Muslim-majority countries in the region to clarify their stance regarding the "aggressors" against Iran and the "killers of its people," emphasising that foreign military bases must be shut down immediately. In his first-ever statement, Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Hosseini Khamenei addressed regional developments and the ongoing West Asia conflict. Khamenei said neighbouring nations must determine where they stand. "The Islamic Republic without seeking to establish domination and colonialism in the region, is fully prepared for unity and warm, cordial mutual relations with all its neighbors. The countries of the region must clarify their stance regarding the aggressors against our dear homeland and the killers of our people. I recommend that they shut down those bases as soon as possible; for they must surely have realized by now that America's claim of establishing security and peace has been nothing but a lie," he said. "The enemy has gradually established bases in some neighboring countries over the years. In the recent offensive, some of those military bases were put to use, which naturally we have targeted with attacks, precisely as we had issued explicit warnings, and without making any encroachment on those countries themselves, solely striking those bases," he added. Earlier, Hosseini Khamenei also called for the blockage of Hormuz. Mojtaba further said that they must resist their enemies- the US and Israel. "Dear fighter brothers! The desire of the masses of the people is the continuation of effective and regret-inducing defense," he said. Furthermore, the leverage of blocking the Strait of Hormuz must certainly continue to be used," he said. Khamenei also thanked resistance fighters of Hezbollah and Yemen for supporting the Islamic Regime. "Without a doubt, the solidarity of the components of the resistance front will shorten the path to liberation from the Zionist sedition. The brave and faithful Yemen did not stop defending the oppressed people of Gaza, and the devoted Hezbollah has come to the aid of the Islamic Republic despite all obstacles, and the Iraqi resistance has courageously taken the same line," he said. In his statement, Mojtaba said that honouring the legacy of his predecessors was a difficult task. "For me, leaning upon a place that has been the seat of two great leaders, the great Khomeini and the martyred Khamenei, is a difficult task. I had the honor of visiting their body after martyrdom; what I saw was a mountain of steadfastness, and I heard that he had clenched the fist of his healthy hand," he said. The Iranian leader further vowed vengeance for those who lost their lives in the war. "I assure everyone that we will not forgo vengeance for the blood of your martyrs. The vengeance we have in mind is not limited to the martyrdom of the great leader of the Revolution; rather, every member of the nation who is martyred by the enemy constitutes an independent subject in the file of vengeance," he said. "Only a limited amount of blood revenge for the martyrs has so far taken concrete form, but until it is fully achieved, this case will remain on top of all other cases. The crime that the enemy has deliberately committed regarding the Minab Tayyibah Tree School and some similar cases holds a special status in this reckoning," he added. Mojtaba takes over the Supreme Leader's chair at a volatile time, when Iran's neighbours had been bombed by Iran in a barrage of missiles. The tone of his statement suggests that he will continue his fathers campaign against US-Israel strikes.
14 shares
😢
A
Amar Ujala
Mar 12, 2026, 02:49 PM
Gas Cylinder Shortage Hits Ayodhya Despite Official Denials

Gas Cylinder Shortage Hits Ayodhya Despite Official Denials

Ayodhya | On the one hand, the officials are claiming that there is no shortage of gas cylinders in the district. Everything is fine. But the officials claim that the poll is opening a long line of consumers at the gas agencies since morning. People are returning from the agencies disappointed even after waiting for hours. Something similar was seen around 1 pm on Thursday, when the team of Amar Ujala reached the spot. Dozens of people were seen waiting for cylinders with tokens in their hands outside the agency. Read Trending VideosThere was a long queue of consumers at the gas agency located in Vakali on Thursday. Many consumers were hungry and thirsty waiting for their turn. People queued up in the sun since early morning, but many could not get the gas till afternoon. Consumers reported that they were waiting in the agency line since 5 am. After opening the agency's line, the employees said that the delivery service has been stopped for five hours.
76 shares
😢
The Financial Express logo
The Financial Express
Mar 12, 2026, 02:48 PM
India's Retail Inflation Hits 10-Month High at 3.21% in February

India's Retail Inflation Hits 10-Month High at 3.21% in February

India’s headline retail inflation rose to a 10-month high of 3.21% year-on-year (YoY) in February, edging up from 2.74% in January, according to data released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation on Thursday. The increase was largely driven by food and precious metal prices, along with base effects. Food inflation was 3.47% in the month, while combined food and beverages inflation stood at 3.35%. Economists noted that the February print does not reflect any inflation pressures from the West Asia war. However, they warned that rising crude oil prices amid West Asia tensions pose an upside risk to retail inflation. Most of them also expect the Reserve Bank of India ( RBI ) to maintain a long pause on policy rates. The headline inflation figure remained below the RBI’s medium-term target of 4% for the 13th consecutive month. The February print is only the second reading under the new, 2024-base consumer price index series. The top five items with high inflation in February were silver jewellery (160.84%), gold/diamond/platinum jewellery (48.16%), coconut: copra (46.16%), tomato (45.29%), and cauliflower (43.77%). Inflation in the personal care segment stood at 19.64%, with other personal effects at 60.80%. Housing inflation was 2.12%. Apart from food, jewellery prices, particularly gold and silver, also contributed significantly to the February inflation print, reflecting the impact of the global bullion rally on domestic inflation. Core inflation (excluding food and energy) is estimated at around 3.4%, indicating contained demand-side pressures in housing, health, and communication, said Vikrant Chaturvedi, Associate Director – Research, Brickwork Ratings. “This divergence between food and precious metals volatility versus relatively stable core highlights that while headline prints remain sensitive to supply shocks and asset price surges, underlying inflation dynamics are still benign.” Aditi Nayar, Chief Economist at Icra Ltd, however, underlined that the uptick in February was almost entirely led by the food and beverages (F&B) segment, which accounted for as much as 44 basis points of the 47 bps rise in the headline print from January. Sakshi Gupta, Principal Economist at HDFC Bank , said the year-on-year increase in the headline print was due to base effects, but on a sequential basis, there was moderation across both core and food. Rajani Sinha, Chief Economist at CareEdge Ratings, said oil marketing companies are expected to absorb crude prices up to around $90 per barrel over the medium term. She added that if disruptions persist and crude prices remain above $90 per barrel, OMCs may pass on part of the higher costs to consumers. “If average annual crude oil prices remain elevated at $100/bbl or higher, CPI inflation could rise above 5% in FY27. This is against our base case projection of 4.3% for FY27, prior to the war situation,” Sinha said. Rural inflation stood at 3.37% and urban at 3.02% in February. Devendra Pant, Chief Economist at India Ratings and Research, noted that despite hardening crude and petroleum product prices, retail prices of petrol and diesel have not increased and are expected to remain the same in the near term. LPG prices have been increased by Rs 60 per cylinder, he said. “Factoring in the continuing increase in food products price/inflation in March, LPG price hike, and evolving currency movements, Ind-Ra expects March 2026 retail inflation to increase to 3.7%,” Pant said. Noting that March inflation would reflect the initial impact of higher fuel prices, especially LPG, Madan Sabnavis, Chief Economist at Bank of Baroda, expects March inflation to be in the range of 3.2-3.5%. From a monetary policy perspective, Pant stated that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is watchful and his agency expects a long pause on policy rates. Nayar also said that heightened uncertainty from geopolitics transmitting into India’s growth and inflation outlook supports the case for a pause in the upcoming April 2026 Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting. In the February MPC meeting, the RBI kept the policy rate unchanged at 5.25%.
22 shares
😐
Amar Ujala logo
Amar Ujala
Mar 12, 2026, 02:46 PM
Uproar in Indian Assembly Over LPG Supply Issues

Uproar in Indian Assembly Over LPG Supply Issues

On the fourth day of the Assembly session on Thursday, there was an uproar in the House on the issue of LPG supply. Speaker Ritu Khanduri ordered the bench to take strict action to stop the government from black marketing of LPG. The opposition protested. The opposition protested. The video / advertisement was removed. Leader of the opposition Yashpal Arya, Congress MLA Pritam Singh raised the issue of black marketing and hoarding of gas cylinders in the state on rule 310. The vice-chairman decided to hear this information after lunch in rule 58. When the session started at 3 pm, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Subodh Uniyal said, LPG supply is a matter of the central government. Therefore, it cannot be discussed in the house. The situation at the international level, the central government has stopped the supply of commercial gas cylinders. There is no shortage of domestic gas. The opposition bench demanded a decision from the government.
46 shares
😢
Times of India logo
Times of India
Mar 12, 2026, 02:46 PM
Rahul Gandhi Cut Short in Parliament Over Epstein Allegations

Rahul Gandhi Cut Short in Parliament Over Epstein Allegations

NEW DELHI: Lok Sabha on Thursday witnessed a fiery showdown after the leader of oppositionRahul Gandhiwas cut short during his speech for targeting petroleum and natural gas minister Hardeep Singh Puri over the alleged appearance of his name in the Epstein files.While speaking on the energy crisis due to the ongoing Middle East conflict, Rahul questioned why New Delhi would allow any external power to influence its energy relationships, particularly regarding purchases from Russia.Rahul Gandhi Warns Of Fuel Crisis Amid Middle East Conflict, BJP MP Dubey Hits Back With Soros Jibe“The foundation of every single nation is its energy security. Allowing the United States to decide who we buy oil from, who we buy gas from, and whether we can buy oil from Russia or not,” Rahul said.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Saudi intercepts drone headed to Shaybah oil field; Israeli strikes 10 Hezbollah targets in Beirut'Legitimate targets': Iran issues warning to US tech firms including Google, Amazon, Microsoft, NvidiaSafe Passage For Indian Vessels: Iran clears Indian-flagged ships in Hormuz; US, Europe, Israel face curbs“Our relationship with different oil suppliers can be decided by us. This is what has been bartered. Why would a nation the size of India allow any other nation, the President of another nation, to give us permission to buy Russian oil or to decide who our relationships are with,” he added.During his speech, Rahul also levelled allegations against Puri. Soon, SpeakerOm Birlainterjected and asked the LoP to stick to the issue on which he had served his notice.by Taboolaby TaboolaSponsored LinksSponsored LinksPromoted LinksPromoted LinksYou May LikeLate Khamenei's wife alive, says report; son recalls seeing Iran leader's body after US-Israel strike - The Times of IndiaWorld News: Iranian state media on Thursday said the wife of late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is alive, dismissing earlier reports claiming she had died in Februa.Undo“I have a copy of the notice given by the Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi regarding the gas shortage in the country, and I allowed him to speak on that subject. However, despite being a responsible leader of the opposition, discussing other issues without notice is not within the procedures and rules of Parliament,” Birla said.“I am urging you again, and Parliament will not function this way. Parliament will function according to rules and procedures,” he added.Later in the day, Union parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju also criticised leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha saying he ignored special permission to speak on the LPG shortage and instead raised another issue.Rijiju also accused him of creating a ruckus in the House, disrupting proceedings while Petroleum MinisterHardeep Puriwas giving a statement.During a press conference, Rijiju said, "Special permission was granted to Mr Rahul Gandhi.As soon as he was allowed to speak, he didn't speak on LPG, but instead began speaking on global issues...He did not speak on the subject.""When Union minister for petroleum and natural gas, Hardeep Singh Puri was giving a statement, Rahul Gandhi again sent all his MPs to the well. They again tore the paper and threw it away and created a ruckus and the House had to be adjourned," he said.This comes days after the opposition accused the Chair of denying speaking time to Rahul in the first part of the Budget session.This led the opposition to move a no-confidence motion against Birla. The move was, however, defeated by a voice vote amid protests and sloganeering by opposition members.'No one above rules in Lok Sabha'Earlier in the day, addressing the House after the resolution seeking his removal was defeated through a voice vote amid loud sloganeering by opposition members, Birla said the discussion allowed members from across parties to present their concerns.“In the parliamentary history of independent India, this is the third time that the House has discussed a no-confidence motion against the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Over the past two days, honourable members have held extensive discussions so that the views, arguments and concerns of all members could be presented before the House,” Birla said.He noted that the Lok Sabha reflects the democratic will of the country’s citizens and that members come to the House with the responsibility of representing public concerns.“This House represents the sovereign will of 1.4 billion citizens of India. Every member present here comes with the mandate of lakhs of citizens and carries the hope of addressing their problems, deprivations and difficulties, as well as fulfilling their aspirations and expectations,” the Speaker said.“I have tried to provide adequate opportunities to all members for this purpose. This august House gave me the responsibility and opportunity to serve as Speaker for a second time. I have always tried to conduct the proceedings of the House with impartiality, discipline, balance and in accordance with the rules. Along with all members, I have tried to maintain order, harmony and efficiency in the functioning of the House while fulfilling my responsibilities,” he added.
25 shares
😢
Akila News logo
Akila News
Mar 12, 2026, 02:45 PM
Gujarat Government Committed to Security and Good Governance: Deputy Chief Minister

Gujarat Government Committed to Security and Good Governance: Deputy Chief Minister

Ahmedabad તા.12: Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi today expressed the government's commitment to the security and good governance of the state while giving a sharp reply to the debate on the budgetary demands of the Home, Jail, Law and Justice departments in the Gujarat Legislative Assembly. He presented the figures of the achievements of the departments while giving a befitting reply to the baseless allegations of the opposition. He said that the edifice of development can always stand on the strong foundation of law and order. The budget has made a historic provision of ₹14,265 crore for the Home Department and ₹2,702 crore for the Law and Judiciary. This allocation is a living document of the fearless life of the citizens of Gujarat and the respect of women. Shri Sanghvi added, "The Home Department is the shield of Gujarat, while the Judiciary is the scepter." The mantra of Shri Bhupendra Patel's government is clear: Zero tolerance for criminals and instant justice for the common citizen. < IDRA > Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Rupani said that the state's security system is being built under a six-pillar strategy.
29 shares
😐