The Times of India

Iran's Ambassador to India indicated that Indian vessels could soon receive safe passage through regional maritime routes, emphasizing strong bilateral ties. This development comes amid escalating tensions in West Asia affecting shipping and energy supplies through the Strait of Hormuz. Discussions are also underway for Indian ships to transport energy resources.

Addressing the concerns over the supply squeeze of the LPG cylinders, both commercial and domestic, the central government assured the uninterrupted supply to households, claiming that domestic LPG output was up 30 per cent compared to March 5. The ministry, responsible for looking petroleum and natural gases, said LPG supplies are also being provided to hospitals and educational institutions.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor praised Prime Minister Modi and EAM Jaishankar for engaging with Iran amidst escalating West Asian tensions. He urged a collective push for peace, highlighting the risks to Indian citizens in the Gulf and the nation's role as a constructive voice.

The Supreme Court has declined to mandate nationwide menstrual leave for women, citing concerns that it could reinforce gender stereotypes and harm employment prospects. While acknowledging voluntary policies are welcome, the court directed authorities to consider the petitioner's representation on the matter, emphasizing potential negative career impacts if made compulsory.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticized Prime Minister Modi for his silence on the reported assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Ramesh alleged Modi fears antagonizing US and Israeli allies, contrasting this with the government's earlier mourning for former Iranian President Raisi. He highlighted India's condemnation of Iran's actions while remaining quiet on the alleged US-Israeli strike.

In a significant move for West Bengal's electoral process, the Election Commission has upgraded returning officers for 152 assembly constituencies to Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) or Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) level and above. This historic decision, aligning with national norms, aims to enhance the fairness and impartiality of upcoming assembly polls by appointing more senior officials.

The Supreme Court stated that public interest cannot justify broad access to private information of public officials, emphasizing a balance with the right to privacy. The court will consider a petition challenging the Digital Personal Data Protection Act's restrictions, which a petitioner argued nullifies RTI provisions for accessing background data of appointees and could enable state surveillance.

Petroleum ministry officials said that the govt has allocated 48,000 kilolitres (kl) of additional kerosene to states, in addition to the regular quota of one lakh kl, for use as cooking fuel. It has also asked the pollution control boards of respective states and Union Territories to allow the use of biomass, RDF pellets (produced from municipal, industrial and commercial waste) and coal as alternate fuel in the hospitality and restaurant segment for one month.

Prime Minister Modi downplayed the energy crisis, urging collective efforts and national interest over panic. He highlighted government initiatives like increased LPG connections and LNG terminals to boost self-reliance. Efforts are underway to shield citizens and farmers from the impact of global conflicts, with measures to manage LPG distribution and supply.

According to the aviation ministry, over 1.5 lakh people have flown from GCC to India between Feb 28 and March 11. Indian carriers resumed Riyadh flights from Thursday, with Day One seeing four flights by Air India, IndiGo and AI Express. The Indian embassy in Qatar said on X Thursday 1-2 flights of Qatar Airways are expected for India daily in the coming days.

Lok Sabha witnessed a heated exchange as Rahul Gandhi's speech on the energy crisis was cut short by Speaker Om Birla. Gandhi was questioned for targeting Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and deviating from the stated notice regarding gas shortages. The opposition had previously accused the Chair of limiting Gandhi's speaking time.

A crude oil tanker has reached Mumbai Port after navigating the Strait of Hormuz. The Liberia-flagged Shenlong Suezmax brought crude from Saudi Arabia. It temporarily went off tracking systems in the high-risk strait. Iran has intensified shipping restrictions. Over 20 million barrels of oil pass through the strait daily.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held three recent talks with his Iranian counterpart, focusing on maritime shipping safety and India's energy security amid rising Middle East tensions. Iran has ensured safe passage for Indian-flagged vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil trade and India's energy imports.

Naga men, women, and children were abducted by suspected militants along Manipur's Ukhrul-Imphal Road, potentially escalating ethnic tensions. A Naga organization blamed Kuki militants, demanding their immediate release. The Manipur Chief Minister appealed for the unconditional release of all civilians and urged stakeholders to maintain peace.