The Economic Times

India's retail inflation rose to 3.21% in February, driven by geopolitical tensions impacting global oil supplies. This marks the second reading under a revised CPI framework with a 2024 base year, reflecting updated consumption patterns. While food and fuel inflation figures are pending, economists monitor potential imported inflation risks.

Indian exporters face production challenges due to fuel disruptions. FIEO has requested the government for priority allocation of LPG and natural gas to export-oriented manufacturing units. This is crucial for maintaining production schedules and timely deliveries to international buyers. Ensuring fuel availability will protect existing orders and boost India's reliability as a sourcing destination.

Word of the Day: Taciturn highlights the richness of English vocabulary and its ability to capture the subtle complexities of human character.

BMW anticipates a challenging 2026. The German automaker expects a drop in pre-tax earnings and flat car deliveries. Trade barriers and fierce competition in China are major concerns. Global instability and rising fuel prices add to the uncertainty. BMW is focusing on new models and cost cuts to navigate these headwinds.

India is reviewing Bangladesh's request for diesel supplies, prioritizing its own domestic consumption needs. The decision will consider India's diesel availability and refining capacity. New Delhi has also received similar requests from Sri Lanka and Maldives, which are being examined.

Switzerland is currently assessing the ramifications of a new trade investigation launched by the United States. The US Trade Representative has notified Swiss authorities regarding a probe into potential unfair trade practices.

Whispers of secret U.S.-Cuba talks involving Raul Castro's grandson, Raul Guillermo Rodriguez Castro, have emerged despite Havana's denials. These discussions, reportedly involving high-level U.S. officials, occur amid tightened sanctions and regional political shifts. Rodriguez Castro, known as 'The Crab,' is seen as a key confidant, potentially bridging political and economic spheres.

Monalisa Bhosle's marriage: Viral Mahakumbh girl Monalisa Bhosle, who married actor Farman Khan in Kerala, denied the allegations of love jihad, saying that the marriage was her personal decision. She also denied reports that she is underage and revealed that her parents wanted her to marry her own aunt's son. The couple, who met six months ago during the muhurat ceremony of a movie, expressed their desire to stay in Kerala.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar recently spoke with his Iranian counterpart, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, discussing critical issues concerning the safety of shipping routes and India's energy security. This conversation was part of multiple recent discussions between the two foreign ministers, highlighting the importance of these bilateral concerns.

Akzo Nobel India is now JSW Dulux. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs approved the name change. This follows JSW Paints acquiring a majority stake in Akzo Nobel India. The company's name change is effective March 11, 2026. JSW Paints is now the promoter and holding company. This marks a significant shift for the paints and coatings maker.

A velleity is a weak, fleeting wish or slight desire that lacks the motivation to translate into action. This term, less common in daily speech, describes a half-hearted inclination to do something, like starting a new hobby or learning a skill, without ever committing to the necessary steps. It highlights the gap between a faint thought and genuine determination.

Rahul Gandhi warns of a looming energy crisis. He states India's energy security is compromised by flawed foreign policy. Prime Minister Modi must prepare for future suffering. Businesses face disruption due to LPG shortages. The government assures domestic supply remains secure. Gandhi urges a change in mindset to protect India's interests.

The Supreme Court has questioned the CBI's investigation into builders and financial institutions cheating homebuyers. The court warned the agency against conducting an 'eyewash' probe. It emphasized the need for custodial interrogation of accused officials. Builders must be arrested to recover homebuyers' money. The court also directed the CBI to provide a timeline for completing the investigation.

HariMurali actor death: HariMurali, a prominent actor known for his roles in Malayalam movies, was found dead at his house in Payyanur. Hari Murali was the son of theatre artist and actor K A Murali and Prasanna Murali. Hari Murali began his acting career by acting in television series and made his debut with Dileeps movie Rasikan.

In an official ceremony, RN Ravi has officially taken the oath as the newly appointed Governor of West Bengal, succeeding CV Ananda Bose. Bose, reflecting on his term, likened his resignation to concluding a cricket match, emphasizing his strategic choice. He is heading back to Kerala to lend his efforts towards the ambitious 'Viksit Bharat' initiative.

A tragic incident unfolded in Annapolis County where an ice fisherman was found deceased. A search continues for a second missing individual. In a separate event, a collision between a car and a school bus in North Sydney claimed the life of a 53-year-old man. Students on the bus sustained minor injuries. Authorities are investigating both incidents.

IPL 2026 tickets: IPL 2026 kicks off March 28 with RCB vs. SRH in Bengaluru, concluding May 31. Pre-sale registrations for MI vs. GT are open on BookMyShow, offering early access but no guaranteed tickets. The initial 20 matches span 10 cities until April 12, with the full schedule pending Assembly election dates.

Karunya Plus KN 614 Lottery Result (12/03/2026): The Kerala State Lotteries Department conducts the high-stakes draw for the Karunya Plus KN 614 weekly lottery today, March 12, 2026. The event will be held at Gorky Bhavan in Thiruvananthapuram, featuring a grand first prize of 1 crore.

The Supreme Court of India has granted bail to Pawan Bishnoi and Jagtar Singh, two individuals accused in the 2022 murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala. This decision allows their release from custody as the trial for the high-profile case progresses. Moose Wala was fatally shot in May 2022, shortly after his security cover was reduced.

A senior manager discovered he had thyroid cancer during a company health check, only to be terminated weeks later. After battling illness and job loss, including a hunger strike, he now advocates for a new law to protect employees facing serious medical conditions from workplace discrimination.

Various claims are going viral on social media that North Korea's leader, Kim Jong Un made a statement: Israel made a huge mistake. It was claimed that Kim Jong made the statement after Israel attacked the North Korea embassy in Tehran. But there is no truth to this claim and these are just unverified rumours.

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey accused Rahul Gandhi of being involved in a conspiracy to reak India, suggesting Gandhi would only find peace if China, Russia, and the US attacked the nation. Dubey also criticized the opposition's stance, highlighting India's better position regarding LPG availability compared to neighboring countries facing severe shortages.

IIT Madras has introduced a Bachelor of Science program in Aeronautics and Space Technology. Students can now apply directly, bypassing the Joint Entrance Examination. This offers a new pathway into aerospace studies. Successful students can pursue master's degrees on campus. Applications for the May 2026 batch are open now. The program provides flexibility and a diploma option.

The escalating conflict in West Asia has triggered a severe fuel crisis in Chennai, impacting nearly 60,000 auto-rickshaws that rely on LPG and CNG. According to IANS, approximately 25% of the city's gas-run fleet was unable to refuel on Tuesday, leading to long queues at the few operational stations and a surge in commuter fares.

Veteran CPI(M) leader G Sudhakaran has severed all ties with the party. He announced his candidature as an independent from Ambalappuzha for the upcoming Assembly polls. Sudhakaran stated he would not seek support from any front. He joined the party 68 years ago. He will contest without wall paintings or conventions. He will speak against corruption during his campaign.

Actor Mohanlal has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his exemplary leadership qualities. He characterised Modi as a genuine statesman with a clear vision for the country. Recollecting his encounters with the Prime Minister, Mohanlal spoke about Modi's unwavering commitment to the nation's progress.

Escalating oil prices due to the Iran war pose a significant threat to India's economy. With nearly 90% of crude imported, sustained high oil costs could widen the current account deficit, weaken the rupee, and fuel inflation. Government finances may also face pressure from increased subsidies, potentially impacting infrastructure spending and economic growth.

The Indian Premier League 2026 season is confirmed to proceed as planned. The Board of Control for Cricket in India will release the full schedule for the remaining matches once the Election Commission of India announces state election dates. The tournament begins March 28, 2026, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru hosting Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Iran's special NOPO unit is now safeguarding Mojtaba Khamenei, the newly appointed Supreme Leader. This follows the assassination of his father, Ali Khamenei, during ongoing conflict. The elite force, known for its specialized training, has also been deployed to enhance security across Iran. Mojtaba Khamenei remains in a secure location amid fears of further targeting.

The tranquility of Gulf waters is being shattered as Iran escalates attacks on shipping traffic in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Over the past few weeks, multiple ships have been impacted by hostile engagements, with strikes occurring along Oman, UAE, and Bahrain's coastal waters. Several vessels, vital to international commerce, have sustained significant harm, leading to urgent crew evacuations.

The Trinamool Congress is preparing to move an impeachment motion against the Chief Election Commissioner. More than 100 Lok Sabha MPs and 50 Rajya Sabha MPs are supporting the move. The party alleges serious irregularities in the special intensive revision of electoral rolls in West Bengal. The motion is expected to be submitted soon.

Australian shares fell on Thursday, March 12, 2026, as oil prices climbed due to Middle East conflict. This surge fueled inflation worries and increased expectations for an interest rate hike by the Reserve Bank of Australia next week. The S&P/ASX 200 index saw significant drops, with energy stocks being the only sector to gain.

Delhi Lok Adalat Token Date: The National Lok Adalat in Delhi will now take place on Sunday, March 22, 2026. Earlier, it was supposed to take place on March 14. The Delhi Traffic Lok Adalat token will be available from Monday, March 16, by scanning a QR code. The Lok Adalat will be held from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla defended his actions in the House. He stated parliamentary rules apply to all members. Maintaining the institution's dignity sometimes requires firm decisions. Birla addressed concerns about impartiality and microphone control. He explained that presiding officers do not control microphones directly. Decisions were made to protect Parliament's dignity. The Speaker thanked members for their views.

Panic LPG buying: Long queues are seen at LPG dispensing stations and gas agency offices across West Bengal. Auto drivers and domestic consumers are facing hours of waiting to refill cooking gas. Online booking systems are crashing due to heavy traffic. Restaurants are also affected, with some trimming operations. The state government is taking steps to restore booking servers and ensure supply.

Today's word of the day: Yeetlord is a humorous internet slang term describing someone who throws things or makes bold decisions with carefree enthusiasm.

PNG Supply: The West Asia conflict has triggered a secondary energy crisis in the national capital, with Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) notifying a mandatory 20% supply cut for piped natural gas (PNG) to all industrial and commercial consumers. The disruption has already led to the temporary closure of at least 12 prominent eateries on Wednesday, as commercial LPG cylinder stocks have simultaneously dried up in both the open and grey markets.

On March 15, the BCCI awards night will shine the spotlight on Shubman Gill as he takes home the prestigious Cricketer of the Year title, celebrating his stellar performances in both Tests and ODIs. Additionally, cricket legend Rahul Dravid will be celebrated with the Col CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring his invaluable contributions to the sport.

The Supreme Court has granted bail to Kashmiri separatist leader Shabir Ahmed Shah. He was arrested in 2019 in a terror funding case. The National Investigation Agency had booked him for allegedly facilitating a separatist movement. The court noted anomalies in the trial and Shah's long incarceration. A detailed order with stringent bail conditions will follow.

LPG crisis in India: The LPG crisis has hit the small street food vendors in Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad and other parts of the country as they are being forced to pay higher prices for cylinders. Left with no option, many poha, samosa and tea sellers have increased the prices of food items as the Strait of Hormuz choke continues. Many dhaba owners are also planning to return back homes if the LPG crisis continues.

The IranIsrael conflict has reached Madhya Pradeshs hotel and catering industry, with several business owners claiming they are running low on LPG stocks at a time when the sector is expected to witness its busiest period of the year, with approximately 2,500 weddings scheduled to take place till March 15.

Venezuela's interim president Delcy Rodriguez on Wednesday appointed a new minister of hydrocarbons, a key position in the oil-rich nation that she previously held under ousted leader Nicolas Maduro. Rodriguez said in a post on Telegram that she was naming petroleum engineer Paula Henao as the new Minister of Hydrocarbons.

A sudden blaze at the Capital Power System Limited factory in Noida's Sector 4 sent shockwaves through Thursday morning's routine. Approximately 240 workers were present when the fire ignited. First responders acted quickly, breaking windows to facilitate an urgent evacuation. In the aftermath, 26 workers were injured and required hospital treatment, with a few in the ICU.

Australian-American actress Nicole Kidman's famous quote You're not anyone in America unless you're on TV reveals television's power in shaping fame in the US. For decades, TV has been a key media. Being on television means reaching millions, making someone a household name. Kidman's words show how screen presence can define success.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah narrowly escaped an assassination attempt. A man allegedly tried to shoot him at a marriage function in Jammu. Security personnel intervened and overpowered the assailant. Abdullah stated he is fine and God saved him. The incident has raised concerns about security for protectees in the Union Territory.