26 C 
Blouson meaning: The blouson, a stylish jacket gathering at the waist, offers a relaxed yet structured look. Originating from the French word 'blouse,' this versatile outerwear, often seen in bomber styles, combines comfort and fashion, making it a timeless wardrobe staple.
From nuclear negotiator to foreign minister: Who is Seyed Abbas Araghchi, the voice of Iran?
Araghchi is currently the most visible diplomatic voice of Tehran. Since becoming Irans foreign minister in 2024, he has taken charge of explaining Irans strategy to the world while navigating one of the most dangerous Middle East crises in decades. His role goes far beyond routine diplomacy. He speaks for Iran on nuclear policy, coordinates international alliances, and frames Tehrans response to Israeli and US military pressure. Seyed Abbas Araghchi has spent more than three decades inside Irans foreign policy establishment. Born in Tehran in December 1962, he gradually built a reputation as one of Irans most disciplined diplomats. Today he serves as Irans foreign minister, representing Tehran on the global stage during a period of heightened conflict and international scrutiny.
Yes, military suffered in Iran: US General admits SETBACKS as Kelly grills Pentagon on Iran war
Quote of the day by Mahatma Gandhi: Mahatma Gandhi's wisdom on power is highlighted. He stated power from love is more effective than power from fear. This philosophy guided India's independence movement. Gandhi's nonviolent resistance inspired millions. His legacy continues to influence global movements for justice and equality. His teachings remain relevant today.
Indias exports to US fall 13% in Feb; trade deficit with China crosses $100 billion
In February, India's exports to the US faced a downturn, attributed largely to the imposed American tariffs. On another front, the trade deficit with China has now exceeded 100 billion dollars for the fiscal year. Interestingly, imports from the US have ramped up considerably.
What is Ruthenium? The rare metal behind the latest price spike
Ruthenium prices have reached an all-time high, driven by surging demand from the AI boom, particularly in data storage and cloud computing. This surge is occurring amidst significant supply constraints, as ruthenium is a by-product of platinum-group metals mining, with South African production declining. Analysts predict a substantial deficit in the coming years.
Oil price today: WTI crude oil prices suddenly plunged below $95 per barrel, falling nearly 8% in just 12 hours after last weeks sharp rally in global oil markets. On Monday, WTI crude traded near $94, while Brent crude slipped below $98. Traders rushed to lock profits after crude briefly approached $100 during rising Middle East tensions and Strait of Hormuz supply fears. Comments from Donald Trump urging other nations to secure the key oil shipping route also cooled panic.
US manufacturing output rises marginally in February
In February, U.S. factory production experienced a modest uptick, with a notable surge in motor vehicle output. Despite this, the machinery sector faced a downturn. Overall manufacturing output rose by 0.2%, building on a revised increase of 0.8% from January. This industry comprises 10.1% of the economy, and year-on-year, factory production grew by 1.3% in February.
West Bengal: ECs bureaucracy shake-up sparks tensions ahead of polls, TMC reacts sharply
Why is Dow Jones up by 0.32%, S&P 500 by 0.64% and Nasdaq by 1.06%, and will US stock market indexes stay up or go down again? Wall Street opened higher as technology stocks gained and investors tracked the Middle East conflict, oil prices, Federal Reserve outlook, and global economic signals.
Delhi pollution: All GRAP restrictions revoked in national capital after air quality improves
All Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) restrictions in Delhi-NCR have been lifted as air quality significantly improved, with the AQI recorded at 119. Favorable meteorological conditions are expected to keep the AQI in the moderate category. This revocation lifts curbs like bans on coal and firewood use and restrictions on diesel generators.
When is Eid al-Fitr in the US, is Ramadan over? Moon sighting and key dates for you
Eid al-Fitr 2026 is expected around March 1920, as per the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon, which marks the end of Ramadan. Muslims around the world, including almost 1% of Ohioans, will celebrate the festival through prayers, family gatherings, feasting, and charitable acts. Although Eid is officially a one-day celebration, some communities observe it for up to three days. This festival reminds Muslims of spiritual reflection, compassion, and unity, closing Ramadan with joy and meaningful traditions.
Iran war could push up summer airfares here's when to book tickets
Summer airfares are set to soar due to the Iran war, with jet fuel prices surging over a third. Airlines are already repricing flights, making the usual booking window too late. Experts advise booking now, especially for international travel, as prices are unlikely to drop significantly even if fuel costs decrease.
Book of the Day: With its enchanting setting, memorable characters and uplifting message, the novel proves that sometimes the most powerful magic is not found in spells, but in the courage to build a home with the people who choose to stand beside us.
'Won't break our principles': UK snubs Trumps war call, Starmer draws red line on Iran
Iran war chokepoints begin to cast doubt on global chip supply
The ongoing Middle East conflict poses significant risks to the global semiconductor industry. Taiwan, a crucial hub for chipmaking, faces potential disruptions to vital supplies like helium and sulfur. Increased power costs are also a concern. This could impact the production of advanced AI chips and other essential components, affecting industries from tech to automotive.
Indias quiet diplomacy with Iran yields results
India pursued quiet diplomacy with Iran to safeguard its energy interests and ensure safe passage for tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. High-level phone calls and regular conversations between ministers built trust. India also provided assistance to an Iranian naval ship. These efforts aimed to address concerns about potential disruptions amid regional tensions.
Quote of the Day by Dustin Hoffman: Myth is supposed to bring us together, but fantasy alienates us.
Myth is supposed to bring us together, but fantasy alienates us quote by Dustin Hoffman reflects a deep perspective on storytelling and human connection. Hoffman suggests that myths often unite people by expressing shared values, traditions, and universal experiences that communities can relate to. In contrast, fantasy may sometimes create distance because it focuses on imaginary worlds that feel detached from everyday life.
Parliament to revoke MPs suspension tomorrow, all-party meeting reaches consensus
Parliamentary suspensions will end Tuesday noon. An all-party meeting reached an agreement to lift the ban. A formal proposal will be presented to the House. MPs have also committed to maintaining decorum and avoiding disruptive actions. This decision follows discussions aimed at ensuring the smooth functioning of parliamentary proceedings.
This Social Security filing mistake could cost retirees $100,000
About 40% of Americans claim Social Security benefits at age 62, according to retirement data. This early filing decision can quietly reduce lifetime Social Security benefits by more than $100,000. Many retirees focus on quick income, but overlook how Social Security claiming age shapes long-term retirement income. Filing early cuts monthly payments by nearly 30% compared with full retirement age benefits. In contrast, delaying Social Security until age 70 can significantly increase monthly checks through delayed retirement credits. With inflation, healthcare costs, and longer life expectancy rising, choosing the right Social Security claiming strategy has become essential. One timing mistake today can reshape retirement finances for decades.
A powerful storm system is expected to bring severe weather across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Following a cloudy start, warmer temperatures will increase into the upper 60s and low 70s, helping result in strong thunderstorms by the afternoon and evening. Damaging wind gusts between 65 and 75 mph are the major concern, although isolated tornadoes are also possible.
Oil prices in for more shock what happens if Yemens Houthis close the Bab el-Mandeb Strait? The Bab el-Mandeb Strait sits between Yemen, Djibouti, and Eritrea, linking the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. It is one of the worlds most strategic maritime chokepoints. Around 8.8 million barrels of oil per day and massive global cargo shipments pass through this narrow route. That equals nearly 1012% of global seaborne oil trade. Now the Yemen Houthi Red Sea threat is raising fears of a blockade. Tankers are already rerouting. Shipping costs are rising.
Support measures for exporters on anvil to deal with West Asia crisis
The commerce ministry is set to announce support measures for Indian exporters facing disruptions due to the West Asia crisis. These measures, potentially including insurance assistance, aim to mitigate the impact of increased freight costs and premiums. The government is actively monitoring the situation and collaborating with various departments to aid the trading community.
Shipping wars stitch higher costs into Indias apparel exports
India's apparel exporters are facing increased costs due to the West Asian conflict, with shipping routes extended and war surcharges adding 12 to 55 per garment. This disruption, including diversions around the Cape of Good Hope, delays deliveries by 10-15 days and impacts a key market for Indian ready-made garments.
Oscars 2026 winners: Where to watch every single award-winning movie in OTT
The 98th Academy Awards (2026) saw 'One Battle After Another' lead with 6 wins, while 'Sinners' took 4 major awards including Best Actor. This guide lists all major winners, from 'Frankenstein' to 'Hamnet', and provides the exact OTT platforms where you can stream these Oscar-winning masterpieces right now.
Unemployment rate eases to 4.9% in February
India's unemployment rate dipped to 4.9% in February, a slight improvement from January's 5%, largely due to a significant decrease in the female jobless rate. Urban unemployment also saw a decline, while rural rates remained stable. Youth unemployment, however, experienced a marginal increase.
Roosevelts observation encourages people to shift their attention toward ideas that promote understanding and progress. By engaging in conversations about philosophy, innovation, culture and social change, individuals contribute to intellectual growth and collective learning.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced plans for four Special Lok Adalats in 2026. These will focus on clearing pending cases before Debt Recovery Tribunals and the Debt Recovery Appellate Tribunal. The initiative targets high-value cases, particularly those exceeding Rs 100 crore. This strategy aims to expedite the disposal of these significant financial matters.
'Allow optional joint ITR filing so that married couples are not penalised': Raghav Chadha in RS
Assam Assembly Elections: EC transfers SSPs of 5 districts a day after poll schedule announcement
With the assembly elections on the horizon, the Election Commission has taken decisive action by relocating five Senior Superintendents of Police in Assam. This move, effective immediately, targets key districts including Majuli, South Salmara, Sadiya, Chirang, and Dhemaji.
Indias biodiversity push: 2.76 lakh local panels power benefit-sharing under Nagoya Protocol
India has established over 2.76 lakh Biodiversity Management Committees, boosting community involvement in biodiversity governance and benefit sharing. The nation leads globally with a 60 percent share in ABS Clearing-House compliance certificates. The Biological Diversity Act, 2002, underpins this framework. Significant funds have been mobilized and disbursed, supporting conservation and livelihoods.
West Asia crisis: No fuel shortage in India, refineries running at full capacity, says govt
Hathras gangrape: Hearing in defamation case against Rahul deferred to April 13
In a significant legal development, the defamation hearing linked to Rahul Gandhi has been rescheduled. The case stems from comments he made following the acquittal of men in the controversial Hathras rape case. Gandhi's legal team has raised formal objections, pushing the new date for the hearing to April 13.
BJPs first Kerala list features Rajeev Chandrasekhar among 47 candidates
The Bharatiya Janata Party is gearing up for a fierce fight in the 2026 Kerala Legislative Assembly Election, with the release of its initial lineup of 47 candidates. High-profile nominations include Rajeev Chandrasekhar and K. Surendran. This strategic choice underscores the party's commitment to establishing a notable presence in various constituencies, hinting at a well-thought-out campaign ahead.
A 76-year-old property dispute, initiated shortly after India's Constitution was enacted, has finally concluded. The Bombay High Court ordered the partition of the remaining one acre of land in Yerawada among the heirs of landowner MMH Janmohamed. This landmark decision brings closure to one of the longest-running legal battles in the court's history.
Rs 500 bribery case ends after 36 years; Supreme Court upholds conviction, reduces sentence
A decades-long bribery case involving just Rs 500 against an excise official has finally concluded. The Supreme Court upheld his conviction after 36 years of legal proceedings across three courts. The official, now 75, received a reduced sentence of one year in jail. The case began in 1990 and saw lengthy trials and appeals.
Why low-code and no-code platforms are gaining ground in enterprise software development
Low-code and no-code platforms are empowering companies to build software applications faster and more affordably, addressing a global shortage of developers. These tools enable both technical and non-technical teams to create internal systems, customer applications, and automate workflows, accelerating digital transformation and improving operational efficiency across various industries.
India's February unemployment rate eases to 4.9% y/y
India's unemployment rate dipped to 4.9% in February, down from 5% in January, according to government data. Urban unemployment also saw a slight decrease, while rural unemployment remained steady. The overall Labour Force Participation Rate held firm, though female participation saw a marginal increase, particularly in rural areas.
Agra's delicate marble inlay industry suffers as exports to West Asia halted amid prevailing crisis
Agra's famed marble inlay craft, Pachikari, is grinding to a halt. The ongoing conflict in West Asia has stopped orders from the region, the main market. Thousands of artisans are now jobless. Major Gulf traders have suspended operations. This crisis threatens a livelihood for families who have practiced the craft for generations.
India's competition regulator, the CCI, is urging companies to self-audit their artificial intelligence tools. This move aims to prevent hidden anti-competitive outcomes during AI development and deployment. The CCI's guidance follows a market study on AI and competition. Regulators are staying alert as AI adoption grows rapidly across various sectors.
Pink tickets in DTC buses to continue for 3 months; no need to rush for smart cards: Delhi CM
Delhi women can continue enjoying free bus travel for three more months using the existing pink ticket system. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta assured that the transition to the new 'Pink Saheli' smart cards will be gradual, urging women to apply at their convenience.
What is Operation Aspides, the EU naval shield now at the centre of Strait of Hormuz reopening talks
Tensions rise in the global oil arena following Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. To address this urgent situation, EU ministers are exploring the possibility of broadening Operation Aspides to include the Persian Gulf, initially focused on the Red Sea. The objective is clear: to mitigate rising fuel costs and protect energy access.
Pune-based scientists develop synthetic gas that can become an alternative to LPG
CSIR-NCL scientists have developed an indigenous technology to produce Dimethyl Ether (DME), a clean-burning fuel that can be blended with LPG. This innovation aims to reduce India's reliance on imported cooking fuel and bolster energy self-reliance. The technology offers a cost-effective way to produce DME, with potential for significant foreign exchange savings.
India says no talks with US on Strait of Hormuz security amid Weat Asia war: Report
India has not engaged in talks with the United States regarding assistance for ships navigating the Strait of Hormuz. This key oil shipping route faces heightened international concern due to escalating Middle East tensions. Global energy markets are volatile, with oil prices surging. The European Union is also exploring ways to enhance maritime security in the region.
The film, adapted from Maggie OFarrells bestselling novel, centres on the profound grief endured by the family of playwright William Shakespeare following the death of his young son, Hamnet.
'Isme gas ka kya kaam': Chaap vendors LPG excuse backfires after customer points out one detail
LPG Gas: A viral video shows a roadside vendor increasing soya chaap prices, citing LPG hikes despite using a coal tandoor. The clip, captioned 'opportunity in crisis,' sparked amusement and criticism online, highlighting a common experience for many Indian customers facing sudden price increases.
Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya has reportedly added a brand-new Ferrari 12Cilindri, valued at Rs 12 crore, to his luxury car collection. The star cricketer was recently seen driving the powerful supercar with girlfriend Mahieka Sharma, with videos of their outing quickly going viral. This acquisition follows Pandya's key role in India's ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 victory.
Indian crude oil vessel from UAE safely en route to Mundra; 22 ships remain in West Gulf, says govt
India needs outcome-driven urban policy, says EAC-PM paper
The paper titled Indias Hidden Urbanisation and its Policy Implications written by EAC-PM member Shamika Ravi and its consultants Manuj Joshi and Apurv Kumar Mishra suggests disbursement of funds under Union schemes over the next five years to be linked to needs on the ground along with financing, governance and land reforms in the sector.
The Lake That Looks Like It Floats Above the Ocean
On the Faroe Islands, Vgar island features Srvgsvatn, a lake that creates a surreal optical illusion of floating high above the Atlantic Ocean. This phenomenon, caused by the land's shape and perspective from the Trlanpa cliff, makes the lake appear suspended hundreds of meters above the sea, though it is only 32 meters high.
Iran war begins to bomb the GST bonanza. What can happen?
Iran War: Escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia are threatening to reverse gains from India's GST rationalisation. Rising crude-linked input costs, supply chain disruptions, and higher freight rates are forcing companies to consider price hikes, potentially eroding demand momentum. While the broader consumption outlook remains resilient, inflation risks are increasing.
Expelled CPI MLA C C Mukundan joins BJP in Kerala
Thrissur MLA C C Mukundan has joined the BJP. Mukundan was expelled from the CPI after being denied a ticket for the Nattika constituency. He expressed his desire to protect the interests of SC/ST communities. Mukundan stated he would contest elections and emerge victorious.
War, voter roll revision and Raj Bhavan shuffle reshape West Bengals 2026 poll battle
West Bengal's 2026 election faces new challenges. Electoral roll changes, global conflicts affecting fuel prices, and a new Governor are altering the political landscape. The Trinamool Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party are navigating these shifts. Government schemes aim to boost support. Controversies and governance issues also play a role. The election promises to be fast-paced and unpredictable.
India gives major updates on LPG connections, ships in Gulf & citizens' return to homeland
The Indian government briefed on West Asia developments, highlighting LPG supply stability for domestic consumers and a significant shift to digital bookings, with 90% now made online. The ministry also provided updates on shipping vessels in the Gulf and the repatriation of Indian nationals.
No-booze beer and houmous: Healthy habits reshape UK inflation basket
In a shifting economic landscape, Britain is updating its inflation metrics to align more closely with modern lifestyles. New health-conscious options like alcohol-free beer and houmous are now part of the calculation, illustrating how consumer preferences are evolving. Exciting additions like motor homes and pet grooming services reflect changing spending habits.
Centre launches nationwide survey to map Indias manuscript heritage under Gyan Bharatam Mission
India's Ministry of Culture begins a nationwide survey to map its manuscript heritage. This initiative aims to create a comprehensive digital record of historical treasures. Teams will identify manuscripts across the country. The goal is to build a national digital repository. This effort aligns with the New Delhi Declaration. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India's vast manuscript collection.
J-K: 1.60 lakh additions in annual voter roll revision, 67,690 entries deleted
Jammu and Kashmir saw over 1.60 lakh new voters added to its electoral rolls. The special summary revision also included numerous corrections and deletions. Efforts are underway to achieve 100 percent voter enrolment. Awareness programs are actively promoting voter registration and participation across the Union Territory. These initiatives target youth, women, and marginalized communities.
Netflix Prime Video new releases: From Border 2 to Peaky Blinders, check top OTT releases this week
OTT Releases This Week: This week's OTT releases bring exciting new content, including the highly anticipated Peaky Blinders movie and Sunny Deol's Border 2, both premiering March 20 on Netflix. Amazon Prime Video also features The Housemaid on March 19 and Invincible Season 4 on March 18, alongside Netflix's Beauty in Black Season 2 Part 2 on March 19.
Irans upper hand in Hormuz is pressuring oil buyers and Trump
Iran is leveraging its geographic advantage in the Strait of Hormuz, creating chaos in energy markets and forcing buyers to negotiate safe passage. This disruption has intensified shipowner fears and pushed the US to seek international assistance for reopening the vital waterway, a process expected to take weeks.
Temperature today: India is experiencing unusually high temperatures much earlier than expected this year. New Delhi recorded its hottest day of the year on March 11, with daytime temperatures rising well above the seasonal average. Meteorologists say the early heat suggests that winter is becoming shorter and the spring season is gradually disappearing, a trend that is increasingly visible across northern India. Experts also warn that climate change is beginning to override natural cooling cycles, intensifying temperature spikes.
Would love to play Test but T20 mein 'haath set hai', says skipper Suryakumar Yadav
Suryakumar Yadav desires to play Test cricket. He finds One Day Internationals difficult. T20 cricket is his forte. He has played red-ball cricket for years. He had one Test inning against Australia. He also played in the ODI World Cup final. He acknowledges the different charms of all formats.
Australian shares dipped on Monday, March 16, 2026, as weaker commodity prices hit miners. Investors grew cautious ahead of an anticipated central bank rate hike and ongoing Middle East tensions. Despite this, rate-sensitive financials and energy stocks saw gains. IperionX Limited and Deep Yellow Limited were among the day's biggest decliners.
The Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) is expected to announce the Class 12 results between March 21 and March 25. Students can check their results online using their roll numbers on the official BSEB websites after a press conference reveals key statistics like pass percentages and toppers.
Air India flags ELT policy misuse; over 4,000 staff under disciplinary action
Artificial intelligence poses new competition risks, including algorithmic collusion and AI-driven entry barriers. NITI Aayog member Rajiv Gauba highlighted these challenges at the 11th National Conference on Economics of Law. India's competition law has evolved significantly, moving from a command-and-control model to a facilitator role.
India is actively boosting its aerospace manufacturing sector. New joint ventures with Embraer and Sukhoi are set to establish final assembly lines. This collaboration with international firms will enhance the country's manufacturing ecosystem. More investment is expected as component production and assembly capabilities grow.
The ECI asserted that the privacy of every citizen must be respected, with no demonstrations or picketing outside private residences. Land, buildings, or walls shall not be used for flags, banners, or posters without the owner's consent, it said.
Operation Aspides: EU to discuss extending naval mission to Strait of Hormuz
EU foreign ministers are considering expanding their Red Sea naval mission, Operation Aspides, to secure the vital Strait of Hormuz. This move aims to counter disruptions to global oil and gas supplies caused by regional conflicts. The bloc's top diplomat suggested adapting the existing mission as the quickest route to bolster security in the strategically crucial waterway.
Iran issues threats to USS Ford strike group, says report
Iran has declared that logistics and service centers supporting the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier are potential targets. Iranian armed forces spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaqari stated the carrier in the Red Sea poses a threat. These centers enabling the carrier's operations are now considered targets by Iran. This declaration highlights escalating regional tensions.
Kerala Assembly Elections 2026: 'People are ready for change,' says Rajeev Chandrasekhar
2 dead after 2 boats capsize off US base construction site in Japan
Tragedy struck off Henoko, Okinawa, as two boats carrying students capsized. Twenty-one people were in the water. Rescuers saved everyone, but a 17-year-old student and the boat captain died. Two others sustained injuries. The incident occurred near a controversial US military base relocation site. Investigations into the cause are underway.
UniCredit launches bid for Commerzbank shares, seeking to revive takeover talks
Italian bank UniCredit is making a move on German lender Commerzbank. UniCredit is launching an unsolicited offer to boost its stake to over 30 percent. This aims to encourage Commerzbank to enter merger discussions. UniCredit already holds a significant stake. The offer is designed to overcome a legal threshold and foster engagement. The price is set at 0.
Election Commission scraps contract of Bengal poll webcam vendor after 'irregularities'
The Election Commission has cancelled the contract of a web camera supplier following major irregularities in footage from the 2021 West Bengal assembly and 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Serious discrepancies were found during examination of recordings. Three new vendors have been selected through fresh tenders to supply equipment for future polls.
Salman Khans Galwan film renamed as Maatrubhumi: Release date and title controversy explained
Galwan Release Date: Salman Khan's upcoming war drama, inspired by the Galwan Valley clash, now has a new title 'Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace'. The film, directed by Apoorva Lakhia, will star Chitrangda Singh. It aims to explore the human cost of war and the value of peace. The movie is scheduled for a theatrical release on April 17, 2026.
The Rajasthan Board is expected to announce the RBSE Class 10 Result 2026 by March 20, 2026, nearly two months earlier than last year. Students who appeared for exams held from February 12 to February 28, 2026, can check their results on official websites. A minimum of 33% in each subject is required to pass.
Israel says it destroyed plane used by Iran's late Supreme Leader Khamenei
Israel's military announced the destruction of a plane at Tehran's Mehrabad airport. This aircraft was reportedly used by Iran's late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other senior officials. The plane facilitated domestic and international travel for Iranian dignitaries. Mehrabad airport is a key facility in Tehran, handling civilian and military operations.
The Delhi High Court granted time for Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, and others to reply to the CBI's plea challenging their discharge in the excise policy case. This comes as the accused have approached the Supreme Court seeking a transfer of proceedings from the current bench due to alleged prima facie observations.
Bhagyathara BT 45 Lottery Result (16/03/2026): The Kerala State Lotteries Department conducts the high-stakes draw for the Karunya BT 45 weekly lottery today, March 16, 2026. The event will be held at Gorky Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram, featuring a grand first prize of 1 crore.
China says it is communicating with all sides about the Strait of Hormuz
China is actively engaging with all parties involved in the Strait of Hormuz situation. The nation is committed to easing tensions and preventing further escalation. Beijing has reiterated its call for an immediate cessation of hostilities. This move aims to avert wider economic repercussions. China's foreign ministry confirmed these communications during a regular press briefing.
West Bengal Elections: As West Bengal gears up for elections, Mamata Banerjee's TMC faces a critical task in crafting its candidate list to counter anti-incumbency and maintain dominance. The party is balancing experienced leaders with younger faces, considering performance, winnability, and generational change amid shifting political narratives and electoral roll revisions.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday carried out search operations at the residential and office premises of real estate firm Mantri Developers Private Limited and its directors in Bengaluru in connection with a money laundering investigation, officials said.
Weight loss Tips: Indias food regulator, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, has introduced the C-A-L-M approach to address obesity. This strategy focuses on Conscious Activity, Active Learning about nutrition, Lifestyle Modifications, and Mindfulness to help manage stress and emotional eating. The authority emphasises the importance of consistent, holistic lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes to achieve sustainable and long-term health.
Word of the day today: Groaker refers to someone who watches another persons food with hopeful interest, waiting for an invitation to share.
India's sugar production up 10.4% so far this season
From October to March, Indian sugar mills have achieved a colossal production of over 26 million metric tons of sugar, showcasing a notable increase of 10.4% compared to the previous year. The rise in output can be largely attributed to the robust performance of Maharashtra and Karnataka, complemented by a slight boost from Uttar Pradesh.
India's merchandise trade deficit widened to $27.1 billion in February 2026, driven by increased imports. While overall exports saw a slight rise year-on-year, rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia and tariff disputes are beginning to impact trade flows and exporter sentiment, with potential for further widening of the deficit.
Eid 2026 School Holiday: When will schools be closed for Eid-ul-Fitr in India?
Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the sacred month of Ramadan and its fasting, is anticipated around March 20 or 21, 2026, in India. This date is contingent on the sighting of the crescent moon.
CPI(M), CPI candidates begin poll campaign as UDF, NDA finalise lists
Political parties in Kerala are actively campaigning following the election schedule announcement. CPI(M) and CPI candidates have already started their outreach, visiting constituencies and interacting with voters. Ministers G R Anil and P A Muhammad Riyas are among those leading the charge. Other parties are in the final stages of candidate selection.
