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The Times of India

National / The Times of India

Self-boasts, silence on US: Congress attacks PM Modi over West Asia remarks

Rahul Gandhi accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of being 'compromised' and controlled by US President Donald Trump, criticizing his speech on the West Asia conflict. Gandhi also voiced concerns over a trade deal he claims will harm Indian farmers and alleged the BJP-RSS are undermining tribal rights by promoting the term 'Vanvasi'.

23 Mar 2026 10:18 pm
US stocks today: Wall Street jumps as Trump delays Iran strikes; oil prices retreat

Global markets surged Monday as President Trump announced talks with Iran and a delay in planned strikes, easing fears of Middle East conflict. US stocks rallied significantly, oil prices tumbled, and European markets reversed earlier losses. However, Iran challenged the negotiation claims, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the de-escalation.

23 Mar 2026 9:37 pm
Gold prices crash! US-Iran war wipes out $9 trillion yellow metal market cap - why is gold falling & is it losing safe haven appeal?

In times of geopolitical uncertainties, gold is the go to investment - its a time-tested safe haven that investors rush to. Then why are gold prices plunging amidst the ongoing war? Does this mean that golds safe haven appeal is fading?

23 Mar 2026 9:15 pm
Rupee breaches 94 against dollar for first time, closes flat after recovery

The Indian rupee hit an all-time low against the dollar, breaching 94 for the first time amid Middle East tensions, significant foreign fund outflows, and soaring crude oil prices. This sharp decline, extending since the regional conflict began, has put pressure on Asia's third-largest economy, highly reliant on imported energy. The Reserve Bank of India is reportedly offering mild support.

23 Mar 2026 9:03 pm
Former AI Express CEO Aloke Singh now in IndiGo cockpit as CSO

IndiGo has appointed Aloke Singh, former Air India Express MD & CEO, as its Chief Strategy Officer. This move, by interim CEO Rahul Bhatia, signals an aggressive talent acquisition strategy. Singh's expertise in aviation strategy and operations is expected to drive IndiGo's global expansion and enhance its competitive edge in a dynamic market.

23 Mar 2026 7:58 pm
Veteran journalist S Thyagarajan dies

Veteran Indian sports journalist S Thyagarajan, a renowned hockey writer, passed away at 85 after a battle with age-related ailments. He covered six Olympics and nine Asian Games during his extensive career with 'The Hindu' and 'The Indian Express'. His contributions to sports journalism and hockey were immense, leaving an irreparable loss for the fraternity.

23 Mar 2026 7:15 pm
Fragile footing: How India, China face sizeable economic damage prospects from US-Iran war; outlook has grown more daunting

What does this latest disruption mean for the growth prospects of Asian economies that are in large part dependent on oil and energy imports. Since the start of the Middle East conflict, passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz has been curtailed.

23 Mar 2026 6:57 pm
Stock market today: Top gainers and losers on NSE and BSE - check full list

Indian stock markets experienced a severe downturn Monday, mirroring a global sell-off. Escalating Middle East tensions, rising crude oil prices, consistent foreign investor withdrawals, and a record-low rupee significantly impacted investor confidence, leading to broad-based losses across major indices and sectors.

23 Mar 2026 6:45 pm
Oil price dips! Brent slips below $100 as Trump delays strike on Iranian power plants

Oil prices experienced a sharp decline as President Trump ordered a five-day halt to planned military strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure, easing fears of Middle East conflict escalation. Brent crude fell over 13%, and WTI slid significantly, reversing earlier gains driven by concerns over disrupted oil transit routes.

23 Mar 2026 6:24 pm
Sathankulam custodial deaths: 9 cops convicted 5 years after father, son killed in Tamil Nadu

A Tamil Nadu court convicted nine police officers for the 2020 custodial torture and deaths of father and son Jeyaraj and Beniks. The CBI investigation revealed the victims were subjected to brutal torture and evidence was destroyed to conceal the crime. The court's verdict brings a measure of justice for the victims.

23 Mar 2026 6:15 pm
Evening news wrap: Trump declares 5-day halt on Iran infra strikes, Tehran mocks him; Sensex slumps 1,800 points and more

US President Trump has paused planned strikes on Iran for five days following productive talks, a move Iran claims as a acking down. This de-escalation saw Brent crude fall sharply. Meanwhile, PM Modi highlighted the Middle East conflict's unprecedented challenges for India, as markets crashed, wiping out Rs 14 lakh crore amid surging oil prices and war fears.

23 Mar 2026 6:01 pm
'Jan-jan ki sarkar': Uttarakhand CM Dhami celebrates '4 saal bemisaal' of development and heritage

Uttarakhand chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday marked four years of his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government, emphasising its guiding mantra of development as well as heritage while fulfilling the dreams of the statehood agitators and the aspirations of the state's 1.25 crore residents.

23 Mar 2026 5:00 pm
Hormuz blocked, Yanbu rises: Saudi's inland pipeline keeps oil flowing

As the Middle East conflict disrupts global energy supplies, Saudi Arabia has activated its 1,200-kilometer East-West pipeline to maintain oil exports. This crucial inland route, rerouting crude to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, is now a pivotal alternative to the closed Strait of Hormuz, ensuring continued market access despite escalating tensions and past attacks.

23 Mar 2026 4:23 pm
PM Modi on Middle East war; lists key steps taken on oil & LPG - warns of lasting fallout

PM Modi pointed out that cargo movement through the Strait of Hormuz has been challenging since the conflict began, but the government is taking steps to ensure that supplies of gas and fuel face minimal disruption.

23 Mar 2026 3:56 pm
Trans rights activists stage protest in Hyderabad opposing the amendment bill, demanding withdrawal

Trans rights activists protested in Hyderabad against the proposed Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) amendment bill. They demanded its withdrawal and explicit recognition of transmen in all laws. Protesters also called for the removal of medical boards for transgender certificates. They warned of nationwide protests if their rights are not granted.

23 Mar 2026 3:16 pm
More relief coming soon? Two India-flagged LPG ships transit Strait of Hormuz: Report

The vessels, Jag Vasant and Pine Gas, both classified as very large gas carriers, moved northward from the UAE coast toward Irans Qeshm and Larak islands early on Monday.

23 Mar 2026 2:35 pm
'Situation worrisome': PM Modi clears India's stand on Iran war, flags impact of Hormuz disruption

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Lok Sabha on the West Asian crisis, highlighting its negative impact on the global economy and India. He assured that the government is providing full support to the nearly one crore Indians living and working in the Gulf region, with missions in constant contact and advisories being issued.

23 Mar 2026 2:35 pm
Rupee nears 94-mark vs USD: Middle East tensions drag currency to new low, what's next?

Middle East tensions are significantly impacting global financial markets, pushing the Indian Rupee to record lows near 94 against the US dollar. Analysts believe crude oil prices and geopolitical developments, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz, will dictate the currency's next move. The Reserve Bank of India is expected to intervene to manage volatility.

23 Mar 2026 2:33 pm
LPG crisis: Argentina emerges as key alternative supplier; shipments more than double in just first three months of 2026

Argentina has increased its supply of LPG to India as shortages emerge following disruptions caused by the West Asia conflict, according to people aware of the development.

23 Mar 2026 1:51 pm
Stocks to buy: What's the outlook for Nifty for March 23-27 week? Check list of top stock recommendations

Stock market recommendations: Coal India, and JB Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals stocks that Sudeep Shah, Head - Technical Research and Derivatives, SBI Securities recommends buying for the week starting March 23, 2026. There is also a detailed analysis on Nifty and Bank Nifty:

23 Mar 2026 1:26 pm
Bitcoin falls below $70,000 mark, Middle East conflict drags down cryptocurrencies

The Middle East conflict is impacting global markets, causing a sell-off in cryptocurrencies and pushing Bitcoin below $70,000. Rapid liquidations and macroeconomic pressures like elevated oil prices are weighing on digital assets. Analysts suggest a cautious consolidation phase, with short-term volatility expected to persist due to geopolitical events and reduced US rate cut expectations.

23 Mar 2026 1:25 pm
Gold price today: How much 18K, 22K and 24K gold costs in your city? Check prices in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai & more

Gold futures experienced a significant sell-off, dropping by Rs 8,089 to Rs 1.36 lakh per 10 grams on Monday, mirroring global trends. This decline, attributed to inflation fears and a stronger US dollar, marks the fourth consecutive week of losses for the yellow metal. Analysts anticipate continued downward pressure amid geopolitical tensions and potential interest rate hikes.

23 Mar 2026 12:45 pm
HDFC Bank share price today: Stock down over 10% in four sessions; check details

The selloff was triggered by the resignation of Atanu Chakraborty, who said that certain happenings and practices within the bank over the past two years did not align with his personal values and ethics.

23 Mar 2026 12:05 pm
Gold price prediction today: Why are gold prices crashing? Key levels to watch out for March 23, 2026 week

Gold price prediction today: Gold is seeing intense selling pressure and this is likely to continue this week amid global tensions, says Manav Modi, Senior Analyst, Commodity Research at Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd.

23 Mar 2026 11:40 am
Asian stocks today: Markets trade in red amid Middle East standoff; Kospi down 6%, Nikkei sheds 1,800 points

Asian markets experienced a significant sell-off, with South Korea's Kospi plunging 6%, as fears of a deepening energy crisis gripped investors. Geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz and potential US-Iran conflict, fueled the market panic. Investors fled technology and consumption sectors, while energy-linked stocks saw inflows amid concerns over global supply chains and rising oil prices.

23 Mar 2026 11:33 am
Gold prices crash: Yellow metal registers worst weekly fall in 40 years, what should investors do?

Gold prices have plummeted to their steepest weekly fall in nearly four decades, dropping significantly from recent highs. Despite Middle East tensions, the precious metal's safe-haven appeal has waned, with broader financial factors now dominating. Analysts suggest current lower prices could offer opportunities for long-term investors, though short-term volatility persists.

23 Mar 2026 11:09 am
Manipur: Mob attacks Kuki Zo Council chairman's residence in Churachandpur, blank fire reported

Tension flared in Churachandpur as a mob attempted to storm the residence of Kuki Zo Council chairman H Thanglet. Protesters, alleging militants were present, first pelted stones and tried to force entry, prompting tear gas deployment. Later, armed individuals fired blank shots to deter a renewed attempt to breach the property, while separate tyre-burning protests were also dispersed.

23 Mar 2026 10:44 am
'Crisis worse than two 1970s oil shocks put together': IEA chief's big warning on Strait of Hormuz

The world faces an unprecedented energy crisis, a potent mix of oil and gas shocks, warns the International Energy Agency. With infrastructure damaged and the vital Strait of Hormuz threatened, global economic stability is at risk. The agency stresses the need for international cooperation to resolve the escalating situation and prevent widespread fuel shortages.

23 Mar 2026 10:02 am
Rupee hits record low: Currency tumbles to 93.8 against US dollar amid Middle East tensions

The Indian Rupee hit a record low against the US dollar, plummeting to 93.86 amid escalating Middle East tensions and fears of disrupted energy supplies. Crude oil prices have surged over 50% this month, exacerbating the currency's weakness. Indian stock markets also experienced a significant downturn, reflecting the global economic strain.

23 Mar 2026 9:40 am
Why did stock market crash today? Rs 14 lakh crore wiped out! BSE Sensex ends over 1,800 points down - top reasons for fall

Stock market crash today: Nifty50 and BSE Sensex plunged in opening trade on Monday with oil prices continuing to remain high amid the ongoing US-Iran war. Investor sentiment continues to weaken amid escalating tensions between Iran and the US, a falling rupee, and other global concerns.

23 Mar 2026 9:19 am
Top stocks to buy: Stock recommendations for March 23, 2026 week - check list

Stock market recommendations: Ipca Laboratories, and Hindalco are the top stocks that Motilal Oswal Wealth Management Research Desk has picked for this week starting March 23, 2026.

23 Mar 2026 8:38 am
CAFE 3.0 rollout: Penalty recovery for carmakers remains a grey area

Government seeks clarity on recovering hefty penalties from carmakers for missing fuel efficiency targets. With stricter norms ahead, the PMO is pushing ministries to define who evaluates, approves, and recovers the dues. Over Rs 8,800 crore in penalties have been levied for past non-compliance, yet no recovery has occurred.

23 Mar 2026 4:28 am
Kilometrage allowance hiked by 25% for train crew

Indian Railways has boosted Kilometrage Allowance and Allowance in lieu of Kilometrage by 25% for over two lakh running staff, effective January 2024. This decision aligns compensation with the 50% Dearness Allowance hike, addressing long-standing demands for better financial benefits for essential operational personnel.

23 Mar 2026 4:21 am
Maoist endgame nears, but no political fanfare in offing

The March 31 deadline for eliminating Left-wing extremism may pass without fanfare, having successfully created a psychological impetus for stakeholders. This pressure led to the neutralization or surrender of most CPI(Maoist) leadership, fracturing the group and pushing remaining members towards surrender.

23 Mar 2026 4:11 am
UAPA misuse not a model for Viksit Bharat: SC judge

SC judge Ujjal Bhuyan emphasized that a developed India by 2047 requires greater tolerance for debate and dissent, without criminalizing them. He highlighted that thousands arrested under the UAPA with minuscule convictions indicate overuse or misuse of the law, hindering justice delivery and the ideal of a developed nation.

23 Mar 2026 3:46 am
PM Modi is India's longest serving head of govt

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the longest-serving head of government, surpassing the record previously held by Pawan Kumar Chamling. This milestone marks 25 continuous years in leadership, beginning with his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister in October 2001 and continuing as Prime Minister since May 2014.

23 Mar 2026 3:39 am
CCS recognises 'significant impact' of West Asia conflict

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet committee on security discussed measures to diversify import sources for key sectors like chemicals and pharmaceuticals due to the West Asia conflict's global economic impact. The government is preparing short-, medium-, and long-term strategies to safeguard citizens and ensure the availability of essential goods like fertilizers and coal.

23 Mar 2026 3:13 am
If America strikes us, we should attack Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai: Ex-Pak envoy

Former Pakistani envoy Abdul Basit stated that striking Indian cities like New Delhi and Mumbai would be Islamabad's default move if Pakistan were attacked by the US. He asserted that Pakistan's nuclear deterrence is India-specific, not aimed at the US, and that any aggression would be met with retaliation against India.

23 Mar 2026 12:43 am
Veteran BJP leader Datta Meghe passes away at 89; great loss for Vidarbha, says Gadkari

Veteran BJP leader Datta Meghe passed away at 89. A four-time Lok Sabha MP and former state minister, Meghe joined the BJP in 2014. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari remembered him as an elder brother, highlighting his significant contributions to education and healthcare in Vidarbha, particularly in tribal areas.

23 Mar 2026 12:25 am
Back in Ladakh to rousing reception, Wangchuk calls for give and take solution

Released activist Sonam Wangchuk urged the Union government for win-win talks with Ladakhi leaders, emphasizing a give and take approach. He vowed to continue his struggle if necessary, highlighting his fight for Ladakh's culture and environment. Wangchuk expressed hope for justice regarding the September 24 firing and the release of arrested individuals.

23 Mar 2026 12:04 am
National Council members to govt: 'Self perceived identity' must remain foundation of transgender identification

Transgender community members, part of the National Council for Transgender Persons, met with ministry officials to reiterate that self-affirmation must remain the foundation of transgender identity.

22 Mar 2026 11:58 pm