IBTimes

Political and religious leaders in the United States have raised serious concerns over the escalating conflict with Iran, questioning its justification, strategy, and economic consequences.

The blackout coincides with ongoing missile and drone strikes, retaliatory Iranian attacks, and restrictions on VPNs and satellite connections, leaving citizens with limited communication.

India is closely monitoring developments, given its economic interests and large diaspora in the region, while continuing diplomatic outreach to ensure stability and safe energy flows. The situation remains volatile following recent military escalations involving Iran.

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson of Biocon Limited, has criticised the condition of National Highway 44 in Bengaluru, calling it poorly designed and inadequately maintained. In a post on X, she raised concerns about substandard barricades and unpaved shoulders along the key IT corridor connecting the city to Hosur.

The announcement coincided with Modi's first rally in Cooch Behar after poll dates were declared. During the rally, he criticised the Trinamool Congress government led by Mamata Banerjee over law and order issues, citing the Kaliachak incident in Malda where judicial officers were held hostage.

Two women alleged to be related to Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani have been arrested in the US, with their residency status revoked over alleged immigration fraud and political links. While US authorities cite security concerns and misleading asylum claims

In a recent public address, Narendra Modi referenced films like Dhurandhar, The Kashmir Files, and The Kerala Story while highlighting cinema's role in shaping public awareness. He noted how such films bring significant issues and historical narratives into mainstream discussion.

Mahhi Vij celebrated her birthday on April 1, 2026, with midnight festivities that continued into the early hours. Born in 1982, the actress turned 44. Mahhi shared a series of photos from her bash, which was attended by her Seher Hone Ko Hai co-stars Parth Samthaan and Rishita Kothari.

The CAG has flagged continued dependence of J&K on central grants despite modest improvement in its own revenue. The report highlights rising liabilities, high revenue expenditure, constrained capital spending, and delays in financial reporting, raising concerns over the Union Territory's long-term fiscal sustainability.

Generic medicines are exempt, and companies have a 120180 day window to submit plans to relocate production before the tariffs take effect. Some countriesincluding the European Union, Japan, South Korea and Switzerlandwill face lower tariffs, while the United Kingdom gets temporary tariff-free access.

Raghav Chadha reacted strongly after being removed as AAP's deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha, saying he has been silenced, not defeated. He questioned why he was being stopped from speaking in Parliament and claimed the party had asked authorities to restrict his participation.

The teaser offers multiple glimpses of Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama. From the grand coronation scenes to the exile in the forests of Panchavati, the visuals trace key moments of his journey. Yash, who plays Ravana, is briefly seen towards the end, with his look only partially revealed.

US President Donald Trump defended the Iran war in a primetime address, calling it vital for global security but offering few new details. He emphasized threats from Iran while expanding executive power and sidestepping Congress.

Alia Bhatt has added to the growing excitement around Ramayana after sharing her reaction to the film's teaser, which stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram. She called Ranbir's look out of this world. Soon, netizens began drawing comparisons, saying that Deepika Padukone could learn from Alia how to support her husband.

Iran has allowed friendly countries, including India, to transit the Strait of Hormuz. PM Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on safeguarding navigation and resolving tensions diplomatically. MEA denied reports of India paying any tolls.

Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, visited Ayodhya with his family for darshan at the Shri Ram Temple on Hanuman Jayanti, describing it as a deeply emotional moment that symbolizes India's cultural continuity, unity, and values inspired by Lord Ram.

The Nifty closed 0.15 per cent higher, gaining 33.70 points to settle at 22,713.10. The Sensex also ended in the green, rising 185.23 points or 0.25 per cent to finish at 73,319.55.

A political row broke out in Karnataka after Siddaramaiah called BJP leaders stray bulls, drawing a sharp odents jibe from B. Sriramulu. He also accused the Congress of corruption and fearing defeat in upcoming by-elections.

Highlighting achievements, he cited top rankings in justice delivery, anti-drug operations, and cybercrime control. He also announced plans for police reforms, including recruitment drives and a permanent Police Recruitment Board, while emphasising continued efforts to strengthen law enforcement and public safety.

Anti-Naxal campaign in Chhattisgarh gained momentum as Ramko Mandavi, a close aide and security guard of a top Maoist leader, surrendered in Kanker district. This follows the recent surrender of two other hardcore Naxalites, signalling weakening morale within the Maoist ranks.

IT Dept has launched a new website, 'Kar Saathi', to simplify tax-related processes and improve user experience. The platform consolidates all direct tax information in one place and features an AI-powered chatbot to provide 24x7 assistance to taxpayers.

NASA's long-awaited Artemis II mission has launched four astronauts on a 10-day journey around the moon. The rocket lifted off at 6:35 p.m. ET from Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida.