The Economic Times

As the security situation continues to evolve in West Asia and the Gulf region, an Iranian military source warned the United States against any ground aggression on Iran--calling it one of the red lines and that a surprise would await Trump, Tasnim News Agency reported on Saturday.

Karunya KR-747 Lottery Result (21-03-2026): The Kerala State Lotteries Department conducts the high-stakes draw for the Karunya KR-747 weekly lottery today, March 21, 2026. The event will be held at Gorky Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram, featuring a grand first prize of 1 crore.

Quote of the Day by Noam Chomsky: We shouldn't be looking for heroes, we should be looking for good ideas, says Noam Chomsky, which means you should not always idolise known people for ideas. Focus on ideas that are logical, fair, and useful, no matter who shares them. True progress comes from good thinking, not from idolizing individuals.

The Uttar Pradesh Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UPSSSC) has announced recruitment for 929 Assistant Statistical Officer and Assistant Research Officer posts. Applications open on April 21, 2026, and close on May 11, 2026. Candidates must have appeared for PET 2025 and possess a postgraduate degree in relevant fields.

The State Department is creating twelve regional hubs to manage disaster and emergency aid. This initiative operates under a new Bureau of Disaster and Humanitarian Response. These hubs will be located across Latin America, Asia, Europe, and Africa. This move follows criticism regarding the closure of USAID. The new bureau focuses solely on disaster and emergency relief efforts.

LPG crisis: Hotels in Tamil Nadu are switching to firewood due to an LPG shortage. This shift is driving up food prices, particularly for biryani, a festival favorite. Family gatherings during Ramzan have also shrunk as people prepare food at home. Industry insiders report a significant drop in hotel business.

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru have begun their title defense preparations with a motivational address from Virat Kohli. Kohli urged his team to stay focused and give their all during training, emphasizing the increased challenge ahead.

America is moving vital Patriot air defense missiles from Europe to the Middle East. This shift supports the ongoing war with Iran. Concerns are rising about Europe's air defense against Russia. Thousands of troops are deployed in the Middle East. Iran has launched missiles and drones. This redeployment impacts Ukraine's defense needs.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin has sent Nowruz greetings to Iranian leaders. He stated Moscow remains a loyal friend and reliable partner to Tehran. This comes as some Iranian sources claim little real help from Moscow during a major crisis. Russia views US and Israeli attacks on Iran as destabilizing the Middle East and causing an energy crisis.

BJP leader V Muraleedharan filed his nomination for the Kazhakkuttom constituency in the Kerala Assembly elections, with Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma in attendance. Muraleedharan highlighted the central leadership's focus on Kerala's development and welfare. The BJP aims to expand its presence in the state, traditionally a contest between the LDF and UDF.

The Bharatiya Janata Party has released its third list of candidates for the Kerala Legislative Assembly Elections 2026. The party has named 11 candidates, focusing on southern districts. This announcement comes as the BJP aims to finalize its seat declarations before the April 9 poll. The BJP plans to contest around 100 seats in the upcoming elections.

Thousands of Muslims held Eid al-Fitr prayers in Iran on Saturday to mark the end of the Ramadan fast against the backdrop of the Middle East war, state television footage showed. Iran, a majority-Shia nation, marked the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan a day after most other Muslim countries, which are mainly Sunni.

Congress leaders who did not secure tickets for the upcoming Assembly elections will be given important roles if the UDF forms the government. This assurance comes from AICC general secretary K C Venugopal. He stated that deserving leaders will be recognized for their contributions.

The Indian Navy will soon welcome its new stealth frigate, INS Taragiri. This advanced warship will be commissioned on April 3, 2026. Built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, it boasts indigenous technology and enhanced stealth capabilities. INS Taragiri is equipped with modern weaponry and can also support disaster relief missions. This marks a significant addition to India's naval strength.

West Asia war: Bangladesh is seeking significant loans to bolster its energy security. The nation faces challenges due to soaring global fuel prices. Measures are being implemented to reduce fuel consumption. The government is pursuing a multi-faceted strategy for a stable energy supply. International financial institutions are providing crucial financial support. Alternative energy sourcing is also under active consideration.

America is exploring options to secure Iran's nuclear material. Elite military forces may be deployed for this sensitive mission. Iran possesses enriched uranium nearing weapons-grade levels. The US has not ruled out retrieval plans. Handling this material presents significant challenges. Previous talks aimed to lower Iran's enrichment levels. Recent military operations have targeted Iranian sites and naval assets.

A growing Middle East conflict poses a risk of fresh global inflation. SBI Research reports that supply chains and asset classes could be affected. However, India's economy may face limited impact. Diversified crude oil imports and policy measures are expected to cushion the effects. Remittances from Gulf countries and crude oil prices remain key considerations for India.

Despite spring's official arrival, Canada is experiencing lingering winter conditions with colder-than-normal temperatures and snowfall expected well into April. Meteorologists indicate a slow transition due to persistent Arctic air. Looking ahead, the country is preparing for an El Nio event in June, which could contribute to 2026 being one of the hottest years on record.

Vice President CP Radhakrishnan emphasized dialogue as the solution to global war threats. Speaking at the Indian Youth Parliament in Nagpur, he highlighted the importance of mother tongues for originality. He praised efforts to translate the Constitution into various Indian languages. Constructive debates in Parliament, he noted, are vital for achieving a developed India by 2047.

South Korea is actively communicating with nations like Iran to ensure the Strait of Hormuz shipping route is normalized. The country is monitoring the Middle East situation and working to protect its citizens and energy transport. Seoul has joined an international statement condemning Iran's actions and expressing readiness to help secure safe passage.

The Delhi High Court ruled that candidates who did not join NEET-PG 2025 Stray Vacancy Round seats are not ineligible for Sponsored Post MBBS DNB counselling. The court clarified that mere allotment does not constitute pursuing a course, allowing petitioners to participate after forfeiting their security deposit.

Congress leader V D Satheesan admits more women should have received seats in the upcoming Assembly polls. He expressed personal dissatisfaction with the current allocation. Satheesan also voiced respect for former minister G Sudhakaran and regret over not securing a seat for Joseph Vazhakan. He affirmed party unity amidst reports of internal issues.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presented a Rs 54,928-crore budget for 2026-27, highlighting the impact of the discontinued revenue deficit grant. He accused the BJP of not supporting the state's interests, leading to disruptions in the assembly. Sukhu emphasized Himachal's unique challenges as a hill state and its contribution as the 'lung of north India'.

Which Eid is today: In India, Muslims are celebrating Eid ul Fitr, also known as Meethi Eid or Ramadan Eid. Eid is celebrated for a period of three days in most of the countries across the globe. On the morning of Eid, people offer special prayers called Salat al-Eid and give charity.

Israel attacked Iran and Beirut on Saturday. The United States deployed thousands of additional Marines to the Middle East. President Trump criticized NATO allies for not assisting in opening the Strait of Hormuz. Vital energy infrastructure in Iran and Gulf states faced attacks. Oil prices surged significantly since the war began. The Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed to shipping.

Lilly Pulitzer created a distinctive American fashion style. Her brightly colored, tropical-inspired clothing became a symbol of resort wear. Pulitzer's brand gained popularity in the 1960s. The company was sold in 1984. The brand experienced a revival and continues today. It maintains her signature style and has expanded its offerings.

Bengal Polls: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, at Eid-Al-Fitr celebrations, vowed to oust the BJP from the state and protect the nation. She launched a strong attack on the BJP, calling it a party of goons and thieves and accusing the Centre of administrative interference and attempting to impose undeclared President's Rule in Bengal.

Yuvraj Dua, who enjoys more than 1 million followers on Instagram, recently shared a reel about how his father admires PM Modi, making an appeal to him to speak about cutting down sugar. PM Modi took note and shared his reel, which was captioned as 'Modi-Paglu Papa'. Yuvraj Dua is a social media influencer who started his career as a sports journalist and later started posting comic videos on Instagram. He also helped Ranveer Singh with his accent during 'Rocky aur Rani ki Prem Kahani'.

Thousands gathered for the first Eid prayers at a proposed Babri Masjid site in Murshidabad, West Bengal. Devotees expressed happiness over the successful event. Humayun Kabir, founder of the Aam Janata Unnayan Party, announced his party will contest 182 seats in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, with AIMIM as an ally. Kabir will contest from Rejinagar and Naoda.

NSW south coast robbery and carjacking: A shocking armed robbery and carjacking unfolded on NSW's south coast. A man was shot at a Narooma hotel before the assailant fled with cash and a stolen Toyota Land Cruiser. The vehicle was later discovered burnt out. Police are actively investigating the violent incident.

The Election Commission of India has established 19 Appellate Tribunals across 24 districts in West Bengal. These tribunals will hear objections regarding decisions made by judicial officers during the ongoing Special Intensive Revision process. Supplementary electoral lists are expected soon. This move follows Supreme Court orders and recommendations from the Calcutta High Court Chief Justice.

Iran's highest military command has issued a stern warning to the United Arab Emirates. The UAE must not allow its territory to be used for aggression against Iranian islands in the Persian Gulf. Iran's Armed Forces will retaliate with heavy strikes on Ras Al Khaimah if such attacks occur. This warning comes amid Iran's ongoing Operation True Promise 4.

Israel Iran News Day 22 Updates: The US-Israel war with Iran enters its fourth week. President Donald Trump is considering winding down military efforts. He stated objectives have been met, including degrading Iran's missile capability and defense industrial base. Israel has attacked Hezbollah in Beirut and Iran, including its capital.

Delhi Uttam Nagar: Security has been tightened in Uttam Nagar in Delhi after the High Court ordered the police to deploy adequate security personnel in view of apprehensions during Eid. Communal tension has gripped the Uttam Nagar area since the death of 26-year-old Tarun, who was killed in a clash between his family and their neighbours in the JJ Colony area on Holi on March 4. The violence broke out after water from a balloon thrown by a girl from Tarun's family splashed on a woman from his ne

Himalayan glaciers are melting at an alarming rate. Ice loss has nearly doubled since 2000. This region holds vital ice reserves for Asia. A third of this ice is highly vulnerable to warming. Urgent action is needed to monitor and adapt to this unfolding crisis. Cuts to black-carbon emissions are also urged.

Eid al-Fitr celebrations are underway across India. Security is heightened at key locations like Kanpur's Badi Eidgah. People are gathering for prayers in Mumbai, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, and Delhi. Families are exchanging greetings and gifts. The festival marks the end of Ramazan, a month of fasting and prayer.

Garena Free Fire Max players can snag free in-game items using regularly released 12-character alphanumeric redeem codes. These codes are time-sensitive and can only be used once, so prompt redemption is advised. Players can claim their rewards by visiting the official redemption site and logging in with their game-linked account.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Draoupadi Murmu conveyed Eid-ul-Fitr greetings to the nation. They wished for happiness, health, and brotherhood. The festival marks the end of Ramazan, a month of fasting and prayer. Eid-ul-Fitr celebrates breaking the fast with gatherings, festive meals, and gift exchanges. It also highlights philanthropy and compassion for the underprivileged.

A meningococcal meningitis outbreak is growing in the United Kingdom. The condition is affecting young people and has led to serious illness and deaths. Early symptoms can be easily overlooked. Health authorities are working to contain the spread through vaccinations and antibiotics.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared uplifting Navroz wishes, embracing the spirit of joy and abundance. This festival heralds the New Year for the Parsi community and individuals of Iranian descent, representing a fresh start and the arrival of spring. Modi articulated his desire for a year filled with robust health and the achievement of personal aspirations for all.

India is on track to become a wealthy nation by 2047. Strong economic growth, a young population, and technological advancements are key drivers. Global supply chain shifts also favor India. While challenges exist, reforms are underway. Investor confidence is high, with the stock market showing robust returns, pointing towards India's emergence as a major power.

The All India Trinamool Congress has revealed its initial list of 17 candidates for the Assam Assembly elections. The party aims to contest key constituencies across the state. This move signals an aggressive campaign strategy. Other parties are also preparing for the polls. Assam will vote on April 9 for all 126 seats.

Blackstone's major private credit fund experienced its first monthly loss in over three years in February. This comes as investors grow concerned about liquidity issues in the private credit sector. The fund saw significant withdrawals this year. Major banks are now tightening lending to private credit firms. Some funds have also limited investor withdrawals.

Meningitis B outbreak in Kent has led to a surge in demand for the vaccine. Pharmacies report shortages as people seek protection. The government released NHS doses to ease private market supply. Experts discuss expanding vaccine access to teenagers, a high-risk group. Health officials are re-examining eligibility for the NHS vaccination schedule.

Petrol, Diesel prices today: The prices of petrol and diesel in Delhi, Noida, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chandigarh and other cities have remained stable on Saturday, March 21, 2026. This comes despite state-run OMCs hiked the price of their premium-grade petrol by over Rs 2 per litre due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.