The Economic Times

Middle East tensions are disrupting natural gas shipments to India, leading to LPG shortages. Households are turning to electric cooktops like induction and infrared. This transition highlights cookware compatibility issues, especially for traditional Indian cooking methods. Consumers are adapting by investing in new utensils or adjusting cooking techniques to suit electric heat sources.

Hamas has appealed to Iran to avoid striking neighboring nations. The Palestinian group affirmed Iran's right to defend itself against Israel and the United States. Hamas also urged the international community to work towards halting the ongoing war in the Middle East. The movement has been in contact with Iranian officials regarding the issue.

Middle East war: France is offering to host ceasefire talks between Israel and Lebanon in Paris. President Emmanuel Macron stated that Lebanon's leadership is open to direct discussions. He urged Israel to seize this chance for a lasting solution and called for an end to hostilities. The goal is to prevent Lebanon from descending into chaos.

Karnataka has approved industrial projects totaling over Rs 4,800 crore. These initiatives will create more than 14,500 new jobs across the state. The approved projects span various sectors including IT, sugar, textiles, and hotels. Investments will boost development in districts like Vijayapura and Chitradurga. This move signifies significant industrial growth and employment generation for Karnataka.

What is US stock market indexes prediction for Monday, and will Dow Jones, S&P 500 and Nasdaq continue to fall or rise again? U.S. stocks closed lower as oil prices rose due to the Iran war. Inflation concerns, higher bond yields, and economic data are shaping the market outlook for next week.

A violent brawl erupted at a Melbourne pizza shop when three men forced their way inside, leading to a chaotic scene captured on CCTV. The owner claims a rival pizza shop owner orchestrated the attack, which left his friend in intensive care with head injuries. Despite the turmoil, the owner continued serving customers.

India's economy shows strong resilience against global headwinds. Favorable interest rates and liquidity conditions are set to boost growth. The investment cycle is on an upward path, driven by government infrastructure spending and manufacturing support. Private investments are expected to rise, particularly in renewable energy.

Actor Deepika Padukone highlighted Mumbai's poor air quality. This sparked a debate, leading Mayor Ritu Tawde to assure citizens the civic body is monitoring the situation. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation is addressing concerns and implementing measures to control dust from construction sites. Air quality readings show variations across platforms, with experts linking low visibility to smog.

In an appeal to the people of Punjab, Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the importance of voting for the BJP in the 2027 assembly elections. He conveyed that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the BJP is equipped to deliver Punjab from the shackles of addiction, financial disarray, and lawlessness.

Wall Street bankers are increasingly worried about the opaque private credit market, which has ballooned to $3 trillion. Recent company collapses have intensified these anxieties, revealing potential weaknesses in balance sheets and risk management. As the sector grows and attracts individual investors, regulatory concerns are mounting.

Western Railway services face disruption this weekend. Infrastructure work at Prabhadevi station will impact local trains. A block is scheduled for girder de-launching. Several services will be cancelled or short-terminated. No trains will stop at Matunga Road and Mahim. Another block affects Borivali and Bhayandar lines. Expect at least 45 cancellations and delays for local and express trains.

Cyber frauds are increasing rapidly. Artificial intelligence offers a powerful defense for businesses. Companies can use AI tools to protect themselves from threats like phishing. New security challenges are emerging. The cybersecurity market is expected to grow significantly. SISA, a cybersecurity firm, is looking to acquire innovative startups.

Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia have furnished surety bonds. This follows their discharge from the Delhi excise policy case by the Rouse Avenue court. The court found no evidence to proceed against them. The CBI has appealed this decision. All other accused have also furnished their bonds.

The Iran conflict escalates as the US strikes Kharg Island's military targets, warning of further action if shipping is disrupted. Simultaneously, Iran leverages the Strait of Hormuz for diplomatic gains, striking deals for safe passage with nations like India and Europe, bypassing US sanctions and potentially fracturing global unity.

North Korea ballastic missiles: Tensions flared in East Asia Saturday as North Korea fired a projectile towards the sea. Japan and South Korea suspect it was a ballistic missile. This launch follows the commencement of joint military drills between the US and South Korea. No damage has been reported. Diplomatic efforts to resume dialogue with North Korea are also ongoing.

US forces struck military targets on Iran's Kharg Island. This island is vital for Iran's oil exports. The action raises fears of global oil supply disruptions. Iran has warned of retaliation against energy infrastructure cooperating with the US. Markets are closely watching for any impact on oil flow. This situation could further destabilize an already volatile energy market.

Rapper Badshah faces arrest after the Haryana State Commission for Women ordered his detention. He failed to appear before the panel regarding his song 'Tateeree'. The commission cited objectionable lyrics and visuals allegedly insulting women. His passport is to be seized. Lawyers claimed no summons were received and alleged politicisation. Multiple cases have been registered across districts.

The BCCI will host the Naman Awards 2026 in New Delhi on March 15, 2026. Roger Binny and Rahul Dravid will receive the Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award. Mithali Raj will be honoured with the BCCI Lifetime Achievement Award for Women.

The Indian Navy's sail training ship INS Sudarshini arrived at Valletta, Malta, on 12 March as part of its global Lokayan-26 expedition. The visit, which includes professional exchanges and community outreach, aims to strengthen maritime cooperation and bilateral ties between India and Malta during its 22,000-nautical-mile voyage.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands Directorate of Disaster Management will conduct a mock drill for earthquake and tsunami preparedness on Monday. The exercise will test communication systems and coordination among agencies. Emergency sirens will sound to demonstrate early warning dissemination. Public cooperation is requested for the drill's success. Routine activities will continue as usual.

Curfew continues in Meghalaya's West Garo Hills district until Sunday morning. Essential item procurement is allowed Saturday from 9 am to 3 pm. East Garo Hills district curfew remains in effect indefinitely. Violence erupted earlier this week during protests linked to GHADC elections. Two people died. The Meghalaya government postponed the GHADC elections.

American Navy aircraft, the F/A-18 Super Hornet and EA-18 Growler, are actively engaged in military actions against Iran. These planes are crucial for precision strikes, air control, and electronic warfare. Operating from aircraft carriers, they form the core of naval air power in the region. Coordinated air missions are targeting key Iranian military sites, air defenses, and strategic assets.

BJP leader K Annamalai has accused Tamil Nadu Minister EV Velu of using an upcoming protest as a birthday advertisement. Velu announced he would not celebrate his birthday on March 15 due to a protest against the central government. Annamalai stated this is a tactic to remind people of his birthday.

Janata Dal (United) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha expressed confidence in the NDA winning all five Rajya Sabha seats from Bihar. He also stated that the alliance's top leadership will collectively decide on the next Chief Minister of the state. These remarks follow Nitish Kumar's Rajya Sabha nomination, signaling a potential end to his chief ministership.

The United States can provide eliable energy supplies to Asia-Pacific, US Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said Saturday, as the Middle East war cripples the region's oil and gas flow. Oil and gas prices have surged since US-Israeli strikes on Iran killed its supreme leader and plunged the Middle East into war.

Global cooking gas supplies face disruption due to the US-Iran conflict. India is experiencing shortages and rising LPG prices. Indane has launched a WhatsApp booking service for LPG refills. This move aims to simplify the process for customers. The conflict has impacted vital shipping routes, affecting imports from West Asian nations. Domestic and commercial cylinder prices have seen increases.

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's detention under the National Security Act has been revoked by the Centre with immediate effect. This decision aims to foster an environment for constructive dialogue in Ladakh, following his detention in September 2025 amidst protests for statehood and constitutional inclusion.

Japan's government issued an urgent alert Saturday after North Korea launched a suspected ballistic missile. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's administration activated emergency protocols to monitor the projectile. The Japan Coast Guard confirmed the launch, which occurred during ongoing US-South Korea military drills. Officials believe the missile landed outside Japan's exclusive economic zone, with no damage reported.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched the Shillong-Silchar Corridor. This significant infrastructure project involves an investment of approximately Rs 22,860 crore. The 166 km corridor will enhance connectivity between Meghalaya and Assam. It is set to become the first access-controlled greenfield four-lane high-speed corridor in Northeast India. The project will significantly reduce travel time between Guwahati and Silchar.

Global weather patterns, including a potential El Nino in 2026, coupled with ongoing geopolitical risks impacting energy prices, could adversely affect inflation. A report by State Bank of India highlights that a deficient monsoon, influenced by El Nino and a negative Indian Ocean Dipole, may impact agriculture and food supply.

US-Israel Iran War: No oil infrastructure was damaged in US strikes on Kharg Island, Iranian media reported on Saturday. Fars news agency, citing sources on the ground, reported there had been no damage to oil facilities after President Donald Trump said US bombardment of the island had destroyed military targets.

Pi Day, celebrated annually on March 14, honors the mathematical constant Pi (), the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter. This irrational number, approximately 3.14, is fundamental to mathematics and science. Celebrations worldwide include pie feasts, Pi Processions, and educational activities, highlighting Pi's enduring fascination and cultural impact.

In a new footage, Iran's IRGC showcases its capabilities, launching drones towards key US-Israeli positions. This development coincides with the announcement of the 48th phase of their Operation True Promise, directing fire at strategic locations including Galilee, Golan, and Haifa along with American bases. The operation features a blend of drone and missile strikes.

North Korea launched a projectile towards the sea on Saturday. South Korea and Japan confirmed the event. Tokyo indicated it might be a ballistic missile. This occurred as the United States and South Korea were conducting joint military drills. These exercises are described as defensive. North Korea has previously objected to such drills.

Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge alleged the BJP created the LPG cylinder shortage. He questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy decisions. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman countered, criticizing the opposition's protests. She stated the government is preparing for supply chain disruptions. The opposition, she added, is pursuing its own agenda instead of national interest.

Jaipur is set to get an elevated traffic corridor along the Dravyavati river. The Jaipur Development Authority has approved a detailed project report for this. The plan aims to reduce traffic pressure and improve city infrastructure. Funds have also been allocated for culvert construction and a new sports complex. These developments will strengthen Jaipur's traffic system and planned growth.

Meena Sankranti arrives on Sunday, March 15, 2026. This Hindu solar calendar event signifies the sun's move into Pisces. It is a highly auspicious time for charitable acts and religious observances. Devotees engage in prayers and donations to gain spiritual merit. The day offers a chance for reflection and positive karma.

Recent disruptions in the Middle East have sparked short-term swings in liquefied natural gas prices worldwide. Despite this turbulence, analysts foresee a stabilization of prices in the long run as fresh supplies come online. In the midst of this, Venture Global is moving ahead with its CP2 LNG initiative, poised to add substantial capacity to the market by next year.

Tendresse signifies gentle affection and warmth. This French term describes a soft, caring feeling for another. It is used in literature and cultural writing to convey deep kindness and emotional softness. The word highlights compassion and tenderness. It is a refined way to express affection, more delicate than simple love or kindness.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf claimed that President Trump is under Netanyahu's control, as the IRGC launched the 48th wave of Operation True Promise 4. The strikes targeted Israeli cities and US regional bases with missiles and drones. Additionally, Iran sent psychological warning messages in Hebrew to residents in the occupied territories.

Former US President Donald Trump has stated that Iran is completely defeated. He believes the country is seeking a deal. However, Trump has indicated that any such agreement would not be acceptable to him. He also criticized the media for not reporting on the US military's performance against Iran.

The IRGC has launched the 48th wave of Operation True Promise 4, using missiles and drones against Israeli cities and US regional bases. This latest escalation, coordinated with Hezbollah, follows claims of downing 114 enemy drones. Iran also issued psychological warnings via Hebrew text messages to residents in occupied territories.

A missile hit a helipad within the U.S. Embassy compound in Baghdad. Smoke was seen rising over the embassy on Saturday morning. The U.S. Embassy had previously warned of potential attacks by Iran-aligned groups. This incident follows a renewed security alert issued by the embassy.

During the operation, authorities seized 64 filled 4-kg and 19 filled 12-kg cylinders of Super Gas Company, along with six filled and 58 empty 5-kg cylinders of HP Gas Company. Additionally, 25 empty cylinders of various sizes --12 kg, 4 kg, and 2 kg--were confiscated.

India offers relief to foreigners affected by the West Asia conflict. Visas and e-Visas expiring soon will be extended for one month free of charge. Overstay penalties incurred after February 28 are waived. Exit permits will also be issued without cost. Temporary Landing Permits are available for arriving passengers due to flight diversions.

West Asia War: War between United States, Israel and Iran escalates. United States strikes Iran's oil export hub. Iran expands missile campaign across the region. Conflict widens beyond original battlefield. Gulf states are drawn in. Energy infrastructure is threatened. Thousands have been killed and millions displaced. The war is increasingly centered on strategic energy routes.

A TAFE campus in NSW was placed on lockdown after a 16-year-old girl was seen with a water pistol, mistaken for a real firearm. Police responded to the incident, which stemmed from a viral TikTok game called Senior Assassin. Authorities are now warning that such games can be perceived as real threats, leading to serious police responses.