The Economic Times

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.

As the Rajya Sabha elections approach, political tensions are rising throughout India. Parties are actively devising tactics to capture important seats in states such as Bihar, Odisha, and Haryana. Negotiations and alliance-building are in full swing, with MLAs being strategically relocated to safeguard their votes. The results of this high-stakes electoral game will be unveiled on Monday.

As global energy crises amplify, nations are increasingly focusing on conserving fuel. The emphasis has transitioned from essential minerals to the fierce realities of Oil, Gas, and geopolitical conflicts. In this new landscape, gas has assumed a status even greater than that of gold and silver.

Key elections are underway in West Bengal, Kerala, Assam, and Tamil Nadu, along with Puducherry. These polls are a significant challenge for opposition parties, particularly within the INDIA bloc. The outcomes will shape the future of alliances and the national ambitions of leaders like Mamata Banerjee and MK Stalin.

Global energy markets face severe disruption. The Strait of Hormuz closure and attacks on oil and gas facilities have halted vital supplies. LNG prices have more than doubled. Crude oil prices are soaring. Reserves offer limited relief. This situation threatens a major oil price shock. An undersea pipeline offers a potential long-term solution.

Elections for five states and union territories are scheduled from April 9 to May 4. This condensed timeline reduces the overall election duration significantly. Voters in Kerala, Assam, and Puducherry will cast ballots on April 9. Tamil Nadu votes on April 23. West Bengal will have polling in two phases on April 23 and April 29.

In a recent statement, Union Home Minister Amit Shah accused Rahul Gandhi of inciting protests across India, while suggesting that Congress has legitimised unlawful infiltration. He emphasised the enhancement of Assam's healthcare budget, crediting the BJP for its advancements. Shah expressed optimism regarding the NDA's robust prospects in Assam during his visit for health initiatives and a youth convention.

The 19-year-old Italian pulled clear of an entertaining battle between Russell and the two Ferraris to take a commanding win at the Chinese Grand Prix on Sunday and share the podium with his teammate and Hamilton, the seven-time champion he replaced last year. Im speechless. Im about to cry, to be honest, Antonelli said, holding back tears. Thank you so much to my team because they helped me to achieve this dream.

Medics and the interior ministry of the Hamas-run Gaza said an Israeli airstrike killed a senior police official and eight other officers when it hit their vehicle near the entrance to Zawayda town in the central Gaza Strip. At least 14 other people, mostly bystanders, were wounded, the Gaza health ministry said.

Global markets will soon see oil flowing from International Energy Agency emergency reserves. Member countries are pledging over 411 million barrels. This significant release includes crude oil and oil products. Stocks from Asia Oceania countries are available immediately. Europe and Americas will make their stocks available by the end of March. This action aims to stabilize global oil supplies.

Before the model code of conduct takes effect, both central and state administrations enjoy the liberty to implement policy changes, as reiterated by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Notably, the West Bengal government made two significant announcements right before the electoral timeline was disclosed.

Punjab is attracting major investments. Nahar Group will invest Rs 1,500 crore in Mohali for modernisation and a data center. Arisudana Industries and Tynor also announced substantial investments. Plaksha University plans a Rs 5,000 crore expansion. These commitments signal a strong future for industrial growth and job creation in the state.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly dismissed viral social media claims suggesting he had died, responding with humour in a video that quickly spread online.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced Dearness Allowance (DA) for state government employees, fulfilling a Supreme Court directive. Arrears from ROPA 2009 will be disbursed starting March 2026. This move comes ahead of the assembly poll announcement, with employee unions crediting their long-standing agitation for the outcome.

The Election Commission of India announced a two-phase poll for West Bengal on April 23 and April 29, drawing mixed reactions from political parties. While BJP welcomed the announcement, CPI-M questioned the ECI's ability to conduct fair polls with an incomplete voter list. Trinamool Congress expressed readiness for any poll schedule.

Oscar Awards Controversies list: From shocking on-stage altercations and major Best Picture mix-ups to protests for representation and unexpected streakers, the Oscars have a history of delivering unforgettable controversies. These moments have exposed deep-seated issues in Hollywood and provided headline-grabbing drama for decades.

Jaishankar held the phone conversations with UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Saturday night.

Amidst unverified claims of his death in an Iranian attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted a video debunking the rumors, humorously counting his fingers and assuring supporters of ongoing strong operations. The IRGC issued a fresh threat against him as the conflict, now in its 15th day, escalates, impacting global travel and fuel prices.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi sharply criticised the Congress for moving a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. Modi stated the move was driven by self-interest and a dynastic mindset. The resolution was defeated in the Lok Sabha. Birla expressed gratitude for Modi's letter, highlighting the Prime Minister's faith in parliamentary democracy.

The television adaptation of Scarpetta is drawn from Patricia Cornwells long-running crime novel series centred on a forensic expert. Reports indicate that the first season takes inspiration from several books in the franchise, including Postmortem and Autopsy.

Iran reportedly deployed its advanced Sejjil ballistic missile, capable of reaching Israel, for the first time since the conflict began on February 28. This marks the missile's initial known combat use amid ongoing hostilities that have claimed numerous lives and disrupted global markets.

The Strait of Hormuz faces escalating attacks on commercial ships, impacting global trade. Iran's actions aim to disrupt the global economy, with many vessels hit. The US urges nations to help secure the passage. Maritime incidents are widespread, affecting various ship types. Iran's stance on passage remains inconsistent, with threats to block oil exports.

Dubai has taken decisive action by detaining 35 people, including 19 from India, in response to the spread of misleading videos online. This initiative is part of a broader effort by UAE authorities to address growing concerns over misinformation amid increasing regional frictions.

Pragathi, a Bengaluru non-profit, is hosting the Art from the Heart exhibition. It will feature artworks by about 40 artists with disabilities. The event aims to promote their talent and creativity. Visitors can interact with artists and buy their creations. This initiative supports financial independence and inclusion through art. Pragathi has previously supported many artists and facilitated artwork sales.

Iranian authorities have detained dozens across the nation. Suspicions of cooperation with Israel led to these arrests. Some individuals allegedly shared details of military and security locations. Others were detained for sending images of bombed sites to Iran International. These actions follow recent strikes and a broader crackdown on alleged Israeli and US collaboration.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright expressed optimism during his appearance on ABC's 'This Week,' suggesting that the current conflict with Iran might be resolved soon. This resolution is expected to restore oil supply flows, resulting in lower energy bills for consumers. The outlook suggests a significant rebound in global energy conditions, making waves across markets worldwide.

Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia have moved the Supreme Court. This follows the Delhi High Court Chief Justice's refusal to transfer a CBI plea. The plea challenges their discharge in the excise policy case. The Chief Justice stated the case was being heard as per roster. The Supreme Court will now consider the matter.

Saudi Arabia's Prince Sultan Air Base near Riyadh has faced repeated missile and drone attacks attributed to Iran. The base, which houses US warplanes, has seen Saudi defenses intercept at least 10 drones. Iran's Fars news agency reported a missile salvo targeting the air base.

Harish Rana, in a coma for 13 years, received an emotional farewell from his family. The Supreme Court allowed the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment. Rana suffered a severe brain injury in 2013. Medical reports indicate no awareness or interaction. He will receive basic care at AIIMS following legal protocols for passive euthanasia.

The international energy landscape is in turmoil as Iran's maneuvers in the Strait of Hormuz complicate oil and gas supply lines. With Saudi Aramco and other key players scaling back production, the flow of shipping remains fraught with risk. The future stability of the market hinges on Iran's decisions, going beyond mere promises for peace.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced clearance of DA arrears for state employees and a hike in honorarium for religious clergy. These announcements came just before the Election Commission revealed poll schedules. The DA arrears disbursement is set to begin from March 2026. Opposition parties criticized the timing of these announcements, calling them election gimmicks.

The Supreme Court of India has permitted the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment for Harish Rana, who has been in a coma for over 13 years. Following a plea by his father, the court ordered AIIMS-Delhi to provide palliative care for a humane cessation of life support. Medical boards unanimously agreed that continuing treatment only prolonged biological survival without recovery prospects.

Quote of the day: Todays Quote by B.F. Skinner shows readers that progress often depends less on avoiding failure and more on the determination to keep trying.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has criticised Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party, accusing them of protesting against India and normalising infiltrators. Shah highlighted the BJP government's significant increase in Assam's health budget and its commitment to development and removing infiltrators from electoral rolls.

West Bengal Election 2026: 10 Key Constituencies: West Bengal Assembly elections are announced. Key constituencies in Kolkata and surrounding areas are set for intense political contests. Bhabanipur, Nandigram, Ballygunge, Kolkata Port, Bhangar, Baruipur Paschim, Diamond Harbour, Tamluk, Asansol Dakshin, and Kharagpur Sadar are among the seats to watch.

In a significant move, the Congress party has rolled out its second batch of 23 candidates for the upcoming Assam Assembly elections, increasing their total nominations to 65 contenders vying for 126 seats. As part of a strategic alliance, they've reserved 15 seats for coalition partners.

India's mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy is under the spotlight after a high economy rate at the T20 World Cup. Despite taking wickets, his performance has raised questions. Former spinner Harbhajan Singh believes Chakravarthy is a champion bowler and will return to form. He suggests focusing on execution and accuracy. Chakravarthy aims to regain his best for future tournaments.

Delhi is set to get a new Water Master Plan. The city's water distribution network will be modernized. This plan aims to fix old problems like leaks and contamination. The system will be divided into nine zones. Private companies will manage command centers. This will ensure better water supply across the capital.

As we approach 2030, India's vibrant Gen Z is set to revolutionize the marketplace, representing nearly a quarter of the population and commanding an impressive $1.3 trillion in disposable income. With a strong emphasis on experiential living, sustainability, and digital convenience, this generation is leaving a profound impact on industries such as beauty, fashion, and fitness.

The Bharatiya Janata Party gears up for the West Bengal assembly elections. Key leaders such as Suvendu Adhikari, Dilip Ghosh, Shankar Ghosh, Agnimitra Paul, and Rekha Patra are set to lead the campaign. The party aims to build on its expanded footprint against the ruling Trinamool Congress.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his powerful message, which underscores an enduring commitment to the principles and traditions of parliamentary democracy. Birla emphasised that Modi's faith in democratic institutions is steadfast, highlighting that the essence of Parliament lies in fostering meaningful dialogue and healthy debates.

West Bengal Election 2026 Result Date: The Election Commission of India has announced a two-phase polling schedule for West Bengal's 294-member assembly elections on April 23 and April 29, with vote counting on May 4, 2026. This makes West Bengal the sole state among the five assemblies going to polls to have a multi-phase election.

The Kurdish ministry placed conditions that have no relevance to exporting crude, the Iraqi ministry said in a statement. Iraq's oil ministry also said it was ready to resume exports of no more than 300,000 barrels through the Ceyhan pipeline to Turkey.

Assam will go to the polls on April 9 for all 126 assembly constituencies. Vote counting is set for May 4. The election process officially begins with the gazette notification on March 16. Candidates can file nominations until March 23. Scrutiny of these papers will happen on March 24. Get ready for the electoral battle.