The Economic Times

Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra claims election schedules for four states and one union territory are aligned with the Bharatiya Janata Party's convenience. The Election Commission announced polling dates for West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Assam, and Puducherry. Voting will occur in phases, with counting scheduled for May 4. The terms of the current assemblies are ending at different times.

India's wholesale inflation reached a new high in February. Prices for food and other goods increased significantly. This trend mirrors rising retail inflation. Experts predict further price hikes ahead. Deflation continues in fuel and power. Food inflation saw a notable rise. Manufacturing prices also edged up.

Israel's Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, stated that Iran is intensifying its stance as the conflict enters its third week. He indicated that a diplomatic resolution is possible if Iran cooperates with the international community, emphasizing that neither the US nor Israel intends to invade Iran but rather to empower the Iranian people to seek regime change.

West Bengal Elections: In a significant move, the Election Commission of India has reshuffled top police officials in West Bengal, appointing Siddh Nath Gupta as the new DGP and IGP, and Ajay Kumar Nand as the Commissioner of Kolkata Police. These changes, along with other senior appointments, aim to ensure peaceful and violence-free elections in the state.

Indian basmati rice exports are projected to stay stable this fiscal and next. Growth of up to two percent is anticipated over last year's volume. While exports to Iran may dip, increased demand from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, UAE, and Yemen will compensate. Logistical issues might stretch working capital, but exporters can pass on costs.

A Palestinian national has died near Abu Dhabi. Their car was hit by a missile in the Al Bahia area. This incident occurred as Iran continued missile strikes in the Gulf region. Authorities confirmed the death following the attack on the civilian vehicle. The event took place on Monday.

The Central Board of Secondary Education has completed its Class 10 board examinations. Nearly 25 lakh students await their results. Past trends suggest the announcement will be in the second week of May 2026. Students can check their marks on official websites like cbse.gov.in and results.nic.in. The process involves entering roll numbers and other details.

The Supreme Court will hear a suo motu case concerning victims of digital arrest scams next week. These scams involve fraudsters impersonating law enforcement to extort money. The court previously described such frauds as robbery and directed the Centre to draft a standard operating procedure.

Vijay Sales has introduced a sharp price correction for the OnePlus 13 5G, now retailing at 45,999 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage configuration in Midnight Ocean. This offer is applicable to store display units and marks a significant drop from the 72,999 MRP.

Trinamool Congress members walked out of the Rajya Sabha protesting the Election Commission's decision. The poll body removed West Bengal's Chief Secretary and Home Secretary. This move happened hours after announcing assembly poll dates. The Trinamool Congress condemned the midnight reshuffle. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju defended the Election Commission's authority. He stated that questioning constitutional bodies is not wise.

Indian cricket is achieving global dominance. Mithali Raj sees men's, women's, and junior teams winning major titles. She credits BCCI and Jay Shah for transforming women's cricket. Rahul Dravid and Roger Binny also received awards. Binny shared his journey from player to administrator. This marks a proud era for Indian cricket.

Himachal Pradesh's higher regions saw fresh snowfall on Monday morning. This caused over a thousand vehicles to get stranded near the Atal Tunnel. Authorities are working to move them. Many areas experienced a significant drop in minimum temperatures. The state has also received rain in some parts.

Vivo T5x 5G price: Vivo is set to expand its T-series lineup with the official launch of the Vivo T5x 5G in India on March 17 at 12 p.m. IST. The smartphone is confirmed to feature a segment-leading 7,200mAh battery paired with a MediaTek Dimensity 7400 Turbo chipset, achieving an AnTuTu benchmark score exceeding one million.

The Enforcement Directorate searched ten locations in West Bengal today. This action is part of an investigation into an alleged illegal call centre operation. Simultaneously, the ED presented arguments in a Delhi court. The agency stated there is enough evidence to frame charges against RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav and others in a land-for-job money laundering case.

Gaming firm NODWIN Gaming is preparing for a public listing. The company has appointed Arnd Benninghoff to its board. NODWIN Gaming is also starting a pre-IPO fundraising round. This move supports global expansion and strategic acquisitions. The company has shown improved financial performance. UBS is the lead advisor for the fundraising and listing.

The Haryana government has decided to close the case against Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad. The Supreme Court was informed that sanction to prosecute the professor has been refused. This decision means proceedings in the trial court will now stand closed. Professor Mahmudabad was booked for social media posts.

Thousands of Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles in Canada are recalled. A defect in the second-row seat mechanism means seatbacks may not lock properly. This could increase injury risk during a crash. Owners should not use the second-row seats for passengers until repairs are made. Toyota will contact owners with instructions for a free repair.

Sanju Samson shared a memorable chat between young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and coach Rahul Dravid. Ahead of his IPL debut, Sooryavanshi displayed a fearless attitude. He later became the youngest IPL debutant and centurion. Sooryavanshi's attacking style was key to India's Under-19 World Cup win. He aims to help Rajasthan Royals win the IPL title.

US President Donald Trump is linking a trade summit with China to Beijing's assistance in securing shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump wants China, a major oil importer, to help safeguard the crucial waterway. Beijing has remained silent on the matter. China is reluctant to join any military effort. Analysts suggest China may prefer diplomatic mediation.

Singapore has recalled two additional batches of infant and toddler formula milk from Nestl and Nature One Dairy due to the presence of cereulide toxin. This brings the total number of recalled batches since January to 11, affecting approximately 5% of the country's imported formula supply. No new illness cases have been reported.

Japan has started releasing its strategic oil reserves. This move follows an International Energy Agency agreement to tap stockpiles. The release aims to counter rising oil prices. Japan will release 15 days of private sector petroleum reserves. This is part of a larger global effort by IEA members to make 271.7 million barrels available.

Indian cricketer Shivam Dube shared a humorous moment with paparazzi, joking about his wife appearing after a T20 World Cup win. He later opted for a quiet train journey to reunite with his children, receiving discreet assistance from railway police to avoid attention.

Global energy markets face disruption. Asian refineries and petrochemical firms are cutting operations. This follows a U.S.-Israeli conflict impacting Middle East exports. Companies are shutting units and declaring force majeure. Feedstock supplies are severely affected. This situation is creating significant challenges for the industry.

Anand Mahindra Phool Dei post: Anand Mahindra drew attention to Phool Dei, a traditional spring festival celebrated in the villages of Uttarakhand. The celebration involves children collecting fresh flowers and visiting homes to place them on doorsteps while offering blessings for prosperity and well-being. In return, they receive sweets and small gifts from households.

The Election Commission has removed two senior bureaucrats in West Bengal, including Chief Secretary Nandini Chakravorty. Dushyant Nariala has been appointed as the new Chief Secretary. Jagdish Prasad Meena, the Home Secretary, was also transferred. These changes come as the state prepares for assembly polls. The commission stated the decision was made after reviewing poll preparedness.

Chaitra Amavasya, observed on March 18-19, 2026, is a sacred Hindu day for spiritual practices and honoring ancestors. Devotees perform holy baths, donations, and specific rituals like feeding animals and lighting diyas to seek blessings, remove negativity, and promote ancestral peace. Charitable acts, especially donating jaggery, sesame seeds, clothes, money, and grains, are highly encouraged for prosperity and good fortune.

Myanmar's parliament has convened for the first time since a military coup five years ago. The army-backed party secured a dominant victory in a recent election. This gathering marks a nominal return to democracy, though the military maintains significant control over the legislature and government. A new 'superbody' is also set to form, further consolidating the junta chief's power.

FASTag Annual Pass: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will increase the FASTag Annual Pass fee from Rs 3,000 to Rs 3,075, effective April 1, 2026. This revision, confirmed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, applies to non-commercial private vehicles and allows for 200 toll crossings or one year of validity.

In a bold move, Kerala Congress (Joseph) is aiming to secure all ten Assembly seats they competed for in the previous election. Ongoing discussions with the Congress party concerning seat allocation could lead to interesting developments. Although P J Joseph finds it tough to part with the Idukki constituency, he's signaling a readiness to negotiate.

Muslims worldwide are concluding Ramadan, a month of fasting and devotion, with the joyous festival of Eid-ul-Fitr. Expected around March 20-21, 2026, in India, the celebration begins with moon sighting on Chand Raat, followed by prayers, charity, and family gatherings. Known as Meethi Eid, it's a time for exchanging sweets and gifts, marking a period of gratitude and togetherness.

India is intensifying diplomatic engagement with Iran amidst severe gas shortages and economic threats due to Middle East conflict. New Delhi secured safe passage for LPG tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, balancing its strategic ties with the US and Iran. This move follows recent high-level talks aimed at hedging its position.

France is sending its aircraft carrier and warships to the Middle East. President Macron is talking with leaders, including Iran, to prepare for future peace talks. This military move is described as defensive. France aims to protect its citizens and allies in the region. The country is also involved in diplomatic efforts to stop the conflict in Lebanon.

Garena Free Fire Max players can snag free in-game items using 12-character alphanumeric redeem codes released regularly. These codes are time-sensitive and can only be used once. To claim rewards, visit the official redemption site, log in, and enter the code promptly before it expires.

Warner Bros dominated the Academy Awards with 11 wins. However, the studio's success is overshadowed by its impending sale to Paramount Skydance. This major deal will merge two iconic Hollywood studios. The consolidation comes as the industry faces challenges from streaming services and rising costs. The future of filmmaking is being reshaped by these significant changes.

Voting has begun for five Rajya Sabha seats in Bihar. Five candidates from the ruling NDA and one from the opposition RJD are contesting. MLAs are casting their ballots at the Bihar Assembly complex. Counting will take place later today. The NDA aims to win all five seats but requires opposition support for one.

Weather Today: India braces for unsettled weather as IMD forecasts thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and gusty winds across several regions. Delhi can expect partly cloudy skies and strong winds, with a chance of light rain and thunderstorms by March 18. Northeast India faces heavy rainfall alerts, while the Western Himalayas may see snow and hailstorms.

Tensions rise as the Iran, United States, and Israel conflict enters its 17th day. Critical energy routes and civilian infrastructure face threats. Drone and missile attacks spread across the Gulf, Israel, and Lebanon. Global powers discuss securing the Strait of Hormuz. Diplomatic efforts continue amid uncertainty. Oil markets react sharply as the conflict's reach widens.

An influencers street photoshoot in Bengaluru was interrupted by an elderly woman who criticised her attire. The now-deleted viral video showed the influencer calmly apologising, a response that attracted significant attention online. The incident has since sparked debate about personal freedom and moral policing in public spaces.

LPG Price Today: Domestic LPG prices in New Delhi have risen to Rs 913.00 for a 14.2 kg cylinder, an increase from last month. Commercial LPG distribution has resumed for industries, and authorities assure consumers there is no supply shortage despite Middle East tensions. LPG tankers are safely transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump said Sunday that the United States was in discussions with Iran as the war enters its third week but that Tehran was not ready for a deal to end it. Iran's foreign minister earlier denied any talks with the United States were taking place. dw/js

Top economic officials from the United States and China met in Paris. Discussions focused on agriculture, critical minerals, and managed trade. Potential agreements could be presented to President Trump and President Xi. These talks aim to stabilize the global economy. President Trump may delay his trip to China. Further technical discussions are scheduled.

President Trump has issued a stern warning to NATO allies and China regarding the security of the Strait of Hormuz. He stated that allies must help secure the vital shipping route. Trump also indicated a potential delay to his planned summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping. He emphasized that nations benefiting from the strait should contribute to its protection.

Automakers are considering 2-3% increase in prices, while consumer electronics and appliances may become 5-6% costlier, reflecting their heavy use of plastic components. Luxury carmakers Mercedes-Benz and Audi have announced price increases of around 2% effective April 1, while mainstream carmakers are finalising their revisions. Manufacturers said prices of shoes, synthetic fibre-based apparel and decorative household paints could also rise by up to 910%.

2026 Oscars Live Telecast in India: The 98th Academy Awards, or Oscars, are approaching on March 16, 2026. The event will be broadcast on ABC and E. In India, JioHotstar will stream the ceremony. Conan O'Brien returns as host. Josh Groban, Misty Copeland, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas are among the performers and presenters. The show promises entertainment and award presentations.