The Economic Times

The 2026 Oscars are hours away, with Sinners leading nominations in a wide-open best-picture race. Hosted by Conan O'Brien, the ceremony addresses geopolitical tensions and industry anxieties like AI, while security remains tight due to a federal warning. No Indian films are nominated this year.

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.

The Election Commission of India has removed West Bengal's Chief Secretary Nandini Chakraborty and Home Secretary Jagdeesh Prasad Meena. New officials have been appointed with immediate effect. These changes follow a review of poll preparedness and past non-compliance issues flagged by the ECI. The commission also suspended seven AEROs.

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.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to award the Bharat Ratna to BSP founder Kanshi Ram. Gandhi made this demand on Kanshi Ram's birth anniversary. This move is seen as an effort to connect with Dalit voters ahead of the Uttar Pradesh elections. Gandhi stated the award would honor Kanshi Ram and the Bahujan movement.

A verified TikTok account carrying the name of disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein has sparked widespread speculation online after suddenly appearing on the platform and sharing a series of cryptic videos.

Major consumer companies are actively recruiting legal leaders. Stricter regulations and new labor rules are increasing operational complexity. Digitization, competition, and evolving laws are reshaping legal roles. Businesses are also growing through mergers and acquisitions, driving demand for experienced legal professionals.

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.

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.

Quote of the day : Epicurus reflection reminds readers that fulfillment is not always found in acquiring new things. Instead, it may begin with recognizing how far one has already come.

An immersive exhibition at the India Art Fair 2026 showcased Manjit Bawa's iconic works alongside new creations by emerging artists. Curated by Ina Puri and presented by the Ardee group's philanthropic arm, the exhibition fostered an intergenerational dialogue on legacy. Student awardees responded to Bawa's style, creating a living exploration of artistic engagement.

Shubman Gill and Smriti Mandhana received top honours at the BCCI Naman Awards 2026. They were named Best International Cricketers for their outstanding performances in the 2024-2025 season. India's five trophy-winning teams were also celebrated. Former stars Roger Binny, Rahul Dravid, and Mithali Raj received the Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award.

Hollywood star Ben Stiller reveals a common fear among successful people. He speaks of impostor syndrome, the worry of being seen as a fraud despite achievements. This feeling drives many to work harder and improve. Stiller's own career, from comedy films to directing, shows this constant pursuit of excellence.

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.

The popularity of todays Thought of the day lies in its simple yet powerful message: while falsehood may travel quickly, truth still depends on patience, verification and persistence to reach the world.

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.

In a recent press interaction, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar sidestepped inquiries about the opposition's escalating efforts to oust him from Parliament. Notices have been filed in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, with opposition members accusing him of bias and collusion with the ruling BJP.

Hollywood is once again at the centre of global attention as the Oscars 2026, officially the 98th Academy Awards, approach, bringing one of the most fiercely contested races in recent years.

Elite Action Group for Drug Law Enforcement raided a Moinabad farmhouse. Several individuals, including Eluru MP Putta Mahesh, were detained. Preliminary tests indicated drug consumption by multiple attendees. Telugu Desam Party president N. Chandrababu Naidu directed the MP to stay away from party activities. A report was ordered on the incident. The party maintains a zero-tolerance stance on drugs.

Zahra Ghanbari, the captain of Iran's women's football team, has decided to abandon her application for asylum in Australia and will be heading back to Iran with a stop in Malaysia. With her withdrawal, she becomes the fifth member of a group that originally included seven refugees seeking a new life down under.

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.