BJP names 88 candidates for Assam polls, drops 18 sitting MLAs
The ruling BJP has announced its candidates for the upcoming Assam Assembly elections. The party has released a list of 88 nominees, dropping 18 sitting MLAs. Several prominent leaders have been excluded, while new faces and defectors from other parties have been given tickets. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma will contest from Jalukbari. Six women candidates are in the fray.
Assam Assembly elections 2026: Pradyut factor in Congresss third list of candidates
MLA Basanta Das, denied a ticket by the BJP, gets an Asom Gana Parishad ticket nine hours after switching over
Assam polls: AGP releases 26 candidates; Congress names 22 in third list
The Asom Gana Parishad has announced 26 candidates for the upcoming assembly polls. Its ally, the Bharatiya Janata Party, is part of the NDA alliance. The Congress party has also released its third list, bringing their total declared candidates to 102. The state of Assam has 126 assembly seats. Both parties are preparing for the elections.
Indias proposal to preload national ID app Aadhaar on phones faced pushback
NEW DELHI, March 19 (Reuters) Indias government privately proposed in January that firms like Apple, Samsung and Google consider pre-installing its biometric identification app Aadhaar on phones, a move opposed by a group representing the smartphone giants, industry letters show. The tussle over preloading state-run apps has become a recurring flashpoint between Prime Minister Narendra Modis government and tech firms, with the Aadhaar request one of six that Indian IT industry body MAIT has pushed back against, according to the letters. Aadhaar is a unique 12-digit identity number tied to an individuals fingerprints and iris scans, held by nearly
Asia scrambles to conserve energy as Iran war disrupts oil and gas supplies
NEW DELHI, March 19, 2026 (AP) Countries in Asia are scrambling to conserve energy and protect consumers as the war on Iran and attacks on gas fields and oil refineries disrupt critical supplies, rattling markets and driving up prices. The crisis is hitting Asia hardest because of its heavy reliance on imported energy, much of which is shipped through the Strait of Hormuz, a key choke point now under strain. Only about 90 vessels mostly Indian, Pakistani and Chinese-flagged have made it through the strait since the beginning of Israeli and U.S. attacks on Iran, and Irans
Five White-rumped vultures released in Assam to revive population
In a landmark conservation effort, Assam released five captive-bred White-rumped vultures into the wild for the first time in the Northeast. The initiative aims to revive declining vulture populations and marks a major step in wildlife conservation in India
Manoj Kumar Criticizes Pradyut Bordolois Departure from Congress
New Delhi, March 19: Congress MP Manoj Kumar has responded to Assam MP Pradyut Bordolois resignation from the Congress party and the subsequent questions raised about the partys leadership. He stated that disagreements and conflicts exist in every party, but that does not justify leaving for a party that opposes the very ideology they all ... Read more Manoj Kumar Criticizes Pradyut Bordolois Departure from Congress
Fast-Track Court Established for Jubin Garg Death Case
Guwahati, March 19: The Assam government has established a special fast-track court to expedite the hearing of the high-profile case concerning the death of singer Jubin Garg. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced this development. In a post on the social media platform X, CM Sarma described this move as a significant step towards justice. ... Read more Fast-Track Court Established for Jubin Garg Death Case
Indias auto boom at risk as Iran-Israel war chokes gas supplies, straining supply chains
NEW DELHI, March 19 (Reuters) Indias automakers and parts suppliers are bracing for production slowdowns and assembly-line disruptions as the Iran conflict chokes gas availability, threatening growth in the worlds third-largest car market. Some parts suppliers to Indias leading carmakers like Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors and Mahindra are already reporting a shortage of gas to power operations, an early sign that supply chain issues are developing, according to two dozen executives at car companies, part makers and dealers. The disruption comes at a time when Indias car demand is soaring to record levels, with sales expected to cross 4.5
Assam Elections: Prateek Bordoloi Resigns from Congress After Father's BJP Move
Prateek Bordoloi withdraws from Margherita assembly race after father Pradyut joins BJP, citing need for party clarity and integrity.
Not a hasty decision: Pradyut Bordoloi explains Congress exit, BJP entry
Assam MP Pradyut Bordoloi said his decision to quit Congress and join the BJP was the result of prolonged dissatisfaction, citing a lack of responsiveness from party leadership, a trust deficit among senior leaders, and being ignored by the PCC leadership
Assam elections 2026: BJP releases first list of 88 candidates, CM Sarma to contest from Jalukbari
Polling for 126 assembly constituencies will be held on April 9, while counting will be on May 4
In a harrowing incident in Chennai, a young guest worker from Assam, just 16 years old, has come forward with a troubling report of sexual assault at the hands of two colleagues. Authorities have arrested Ruben, the primary suspect, who is accused of not only assaulting her but also forcing her into a compromising situation with his associate, Alan Hussain.
BJP Lists 88 for Assam Polls; Sarma from Jalukbari
The party named former Congress leader Pradyut Bordoloi as its candidate from Dispur assembly seat.
After MP Pradyut Bordoloi Joined BJP, Son Exits From Congress Poll Race
After Assam MP Pradyut Bordoloi joined the BJP, his son Prateek announced that he won't contest on a Congress ticket from Margherita in the upcoming assembly polls.
Assam election 2026: BJP releases list of candidates; CM Himanta Sarma to contest from Jalukbari
The Bharatiya Janata Party has unveiled its initial list of 88 candidates for the Assam assembly elections, with chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma contesting from Jalukbari. The party has finalized seat-sharing with AGP and BPF, aiming to retain power. The announcement follows the declaration of the poll schedule for the 126-member assembly.
Silver futures tumble Rs 9,031 to Rs 2.39 lakh/kg amid crude oil surge, Fed stance
New Delhi, Mar 19 (PTI) Silver futures tumbled by Rs 9,031 to Rs 2.39 lakh per kilogram on Thursday, marking the seventh straight session of losses, as rising crude oil prices and a hawkish US Federal Reserve outlook dampened investors sentiment. On the Multi Commodity Exchange, the white metal for the May delivery slumped by Rs 9,031, or 3.64 per cent, to Rs 2,39,163 per kilogram in a business turnover of 6,372 lots. Analysts said persistent inflation concerns, driven by elevated crude oil prices, have reduced safe-haven demand for precious metals by lowering expectations of near-term interest rate cuts by
Assam polls: BJP releases first list of 88 candidates, CM Sarma to contest from Jalukbari
According to the list, Bhupen Kumar Borah, who also joined the BJP recently after leaving the Congress, will contest from Bihpura seat.
BJP Unveils First List of 88 Candidates for Assam Assembly Elections
Guwahati, March 19: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has released its first list of candidates for the Assam Assembly elections, announcing the names of 88 contenders. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma will contest from the Jalukbari constituency, while the party has also nominated Pradyut Bordoloi, who recently switched from Congress. The list includes notable figures ... Read more BJP Unveils First List of 88 Candidates for Assam Assembly Elections
How the law of naval warfare applies to the Strait of Hormuz
Kensington (Australia), Mar 19 (The Conversation) The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow body of water adjacent to Iran and Oman, which connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman. While it is a shared body of water between Iran and Oman, Iran functionally exercises a greater amount of control over it. The strait is a vital conduit for the shipment of oil, gas and other exports (notably fertiliser) from the Persian Gulf to the rest of the world. At its narrowest point, it is just 21 nautical miles (24 miles or 39 kilometres) wide. With the ongoing conflict
Prateek Bordoloi has withdrawn his candidacy for the Margherita Assembly seat. He was set to contest on a Congress ticket. His decision follows his father, Pradyut Bordoloi, joining the Bharatiya Janata Party. Prateek stated it would be inappropriate to continue as a Congress candidate. He affirmed his commitment to the party in other roles.
The Bharatiya Janata Party has announced its first list of candidates for the Assam elections. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma will seek a sixth term from Jalukbari. Recent Congress entrant Pradyut Bordoloi will contest from Dispur. The party is also fielding Bhupen Kumar Borah from Bihpuria. This signals a strategic move by the BJP.
Trump vows no more attacks by Israel on Iran gas field after it violently lashed out
DOHA/RIYADH, March 19 (Reuters) U.S. President Donald Trump said an angry Israel violently lashed out and attacked Irans major gas field, a significant escalation in the U.S.-Israeli war, but ruled out further such attacks by Israel unless Iran retaliated. Wednesdays attack on the huge South Pars gas field drove oil prices higher and prompted a threat by Iran to attack oil and gas targets across the Gulf, while it fired missiles at Qatar and Saudi Arabia. The escalation heightens the unprecedented disruption of global energy supplies that has raised the political stakes for Trump, who joined Israel in attacking
Nearly 18,000 people in 18-45 age group died due to heart attacks in Haryana in 6 years
Chandigarh, Mar 19 (PTI) Nearly 18,000 people in the age group of 18-45 died due to heart attacks or heart failures in Haryana between January 2020 and January 2026, the Assembly was informed on Wednesday. The government shared this information in the House in a written reply to a question from a Congress MLA, who had sought to know the year-wise and district wise number of youths in the 18-45 years of age group who have died due to heart attack/heart failure in Haryana from the year 2020 till date, and whether the government has conducted any study or survey
The BJPs Central Election Committee held a meeting in New Delhi to discuss and finalise the names of the party candidates for the upcoming Assembly polls in Assam and Puducherry
25 lakh personnel to be deployed for 5 assembly elections: EC
NEW DELHI, Mar 18 : As many as 25 lakh personnel, including 8.5 lakh security personnel, will be deployed for the five assembly polls to be held next month, the Election Commission said on Wednesday. As many as 17.4 crore electors are eligible to vote in the elections in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam and Puducherry. The EC noted that Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, while announcing the schedule of the elections, had asserted that the officials have been [] The post 25 lakh personnel to be deployed for 5 assembly elections: EC appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Pradyut Bordoloi Meets Amit Shah After Joining BJP, Strengthening Assams Political Landscape
New Delhi, March 19: In a significant development in Assams political arena, Pradyut Bordoloi, who recently joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on Wednesday. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was also present during the meeting. This gathering is perceived as a strategic move to ... Read more Pradyut Bordoloi Meets Amit Shah After Joining BJP, Strengthening Assams Political Landscape
NIA Files Charges Against Three PLA Terrorists in Assam Rifles Truck Attack
New Delhi, March 19: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed charges against three members of the banned Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) in connection with the Assam Rifles truck attack. This incident resulted in the deaths of two paramilitary personnel in Manipur last year. The charges were submitted to a special NIA court located in ... Read more NIA Files Charges Against Three PLA Terrorists in Assam Rifles Truck Attack
NIA Files Charges Against Three PLA Cadres in Manipur Attack
New Delhi, March 19: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a chargesheet against three cadres of the banned organization Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) in connection with a terrorist attack on an Assam Rifles truck in Manipur. This attack, which occurred in September 2025, resulted in the deaths of two Assam Rifles personnel and left ... Read more NIA Files Charges Against Three PLA Cadres in Manipur Attack
Himanta Sarma vs Gaurav Gogoi showdown: Assam heads into 2026 polls amid echoes of a political past
In 1996, Assam's Congress faced insurgency and electoral defeat. Tarun Gogoi rebuilt the party, leading it to power in 2001. Now, 25 years later, his son Gaurav Gogoi faces the challenge of uniting a factionalized Congress against Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, amidst recent defections from the party.
Assam to use elephants, boats and bullock carts to reach remote voters
April 9 marks a pivotal day for Assam as it gears up for assembly elections. The state is taking an extraordinary leap by employing elephants, bullock carts, and boats to traverse the challenging landscapes of Karbi Anglong and Kamrup, guaranteeing accessibility for voters and polling agents alike.
Assam Congress weighs MPs flight to BJP
The fate of Pradyut Bordolois son, the Congress candidate from eastern Assams Margherita constituency, hangs in the balance
Both sides in Iran war ratchet up attacks on energy facilities, as oil prices surge
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, March 18, 2026 (AP) Israel kept up its campaign of targeting Irans leaders on Wednesday, killing the countrys intelligence minister, and an Iranian offshore natural gas field was struck in a sign of the wars mounting pressure from both sides on the regions economic lifeblood: energy. Iran has been taking aim at its Gulf Arab neighbors energy facilities since the war started on Feb. 28, and has made the Strait of Hormuz shipping channel through which one-fifth of the worlds oil travels nearly impassable. On Wednesday, Iran struck a province of
Govt mulls authorising more ministries to issue content takedown orders
New Delhi, Mar 18 (PTI) The government is considering authorising some more ministries, including Defence, External Affairs, and Home Affairs, to issue content takedown orders to social media platforms, sources said on Wednesday. Inter-ministerial discussions are currently underway, government sources said, but they did not provide a timeline for when this may be implemented. At present, the Ministry of Electronics and IT (Meity) is the nodal ministry for takedowns and content blocking orders, and the latest move to expand the ambit of designated ministries would ensure that takedown orders can be issued faster on misleading, illegal content and AI-generated deepfakes.
Unfortunate: Gaurav Gogoi On MP Pradyut Bordoloi Joining BJP
Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Gaurav Gogoi, on Wednesday, called the resignation of senior Congress leader and Nagaon Lok Sabha MP Pradyut Bordoloi unfortunate.
Israel says it kills Iranian minister, will let military hit any senior official it can find
DUBAI/JERUSALEM/BEIRUT, March 18 (Reuters) Israel said on Wednesday it had killed Irans intelligence minister in the second strike on a top leadership figure in two days, and had authorised the military to target any senior Iranian official it can locate. Israel also hit central Beirut, destroying apartment buildings in some of the most intense airstrikes on the Lebanese capital for decades, Israels other front in the war it launched with the United States against Iran. A day after killing Irans powerful security chief Ali Larijani in the highest-level targeted killing since that of the supreme leader on the wars
Unemployment a mega-crisis, Modi govt has no solution: Congress
New Delhi, Mar 18 (PTI) The Congress on Wednesday attacked the government over graduate unemployment, saying that apart from rolling out a new agenda now and then to distract the public, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has no solution to the mega-crisis. Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh cited a report by the Azim Premji University to make the allegation. According to the report, 11 million out of 63 million graduates between the ages of 20 and 29 in India are unemployed, with only a small proportion securing stable salaried jobs within a year of graduation. This government, expert at
VHP hits back at NBCC, says RSS link to Nagaland church row misplaced
The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has criticized the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) for linking the RSS and VHP to a recent Assam Rifles operation at a church. VHP president Alok Kumar stated these accusations are misplaced and aim to sow societal division, asserting neither organization was involved.
Assam CM Criticizes Congress, Welcomes Former Leader to BJP
New Delhi, March 18: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma warmly welcomed former Congress leader Pradyut Bordoloi into the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday. He stated that there is no place for self-respecting individuals in the old party. Following Bordolois formal induction into the BJP, Sarma spoke to reporters, calling this a significant political ... Read more Assam CM Criticizes Congress, Welcomes Former Leader to BJP
Election Commission Deploys Over 2.5 Million Officials for Violence-Free Elections
New Delhi, March 18: The Election Commission has deployed over 2.5 million officials to ensure violence-free and inducement-free elections in five states. On March 15, the Commission announced elections for the assemblies of Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, along with by-elections in six other states. To facilitate smooth and orderly elections across ... Read more Election Commission Deploys Over 2.5 Million Officials for Violence-Free Elections
Assam Politics Shock: Sitting MP Pradyut Bordoloi Quits Congress, Joins BJP
Watch: Pradyut Bordoloi quits Congress, joins BJP ahead of Assam elections
Ahead of the Assam Assembly elections, Congress MP Pradyut Bordoloi has resigned from the party and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in the presence of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
BJP Finalises Assam Seat Plan, PM Modi To Address 3 Rallies In April
Under the agreement, the BJP will contest 89 seats, while its allies Asom Gana Parishad will field candidates in 26 constituencies and Bodoland People's Front in 11.
Assam study sheds new light on suns surface tremors
The tiny five-minute vibrations may hold big answers for scientists trying to understand the powerful solar storms that sometimes affect Earth, Tezpur University researchers say
Congress veteran Pradyut Bordoloi has joined the BJP just weeks before the Assam assembly elections. His move weakens the Congress party's organizational structure, especially in central Assam. The BJP gains a seasoned leader who can broaden its appeal and strengthen its networks. This defection highlights ongoing political shifts in the state ahead of the crucial polls.
Pradyut Bordoloi, 'Shashi Tharoor Of Northeast', Quits Congress. What It Means?
The resignation of Congress MP Pradyut Bordoloi and his crossover to the BJP, appears to shine a light on the internal fault lines within the Congress in Assam, dealing a direct blow to the authority of state party chief Gaurav Gogoi.
Cong Jolted Ahead Of Assam Polls As MP Pradyut Bordoloi Joins BJP
I have decided to quit Congress not only for self-respect but also to work in the larger interest of Assam : Bordoloi
Priyanka Gandhi expresses disappointment over Pradyut Bordoloi`s Congress exit
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi termed Assam MP Pradyut Bordolois resignation from the Indian National Congress as unfortunate and regrettable, suggesting he was upset over ticket allocation. Bordoloi submitted his resignation to party president Mallikarjun Kharge after a long association with the party
Hours after quitting Congress, Assam MP Pradyut Bordoloi joins BJP
Assam Lok Sabha MP Pradyut Bordoloi joined the Bharatiya Janata Party hours after resigning from the Indian National Congress, alleging humiliation and lack of support within the partys state unit. He was inducted in the presence of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in New Delhi
Congress calls Bordoloi exit 'unfortunate'; BJP says opposition 'losing base'
Congress MP Pradyut Bordoloi has resigned from the party just weeks before the Assam Assembly elections. His departure has drawn sharp criticism from the BJP, which claims it highlights the Congress's declining influence. Congress leaders expressed disappointment, suggesting ticket allocation issues may have prompted the decision. The party plans to persuade Bordoloi to reconsider his resignation.
Assam MP Pradyut Bordoloi Joins BJP, Welcomed by CM Himanta Biswa Sarma
New Delhi, March 18: In a significant political shift ahead of next months assembly elections, Assam MP Pradyut Bordoloi has joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), dealing a major blow to the Congress party. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma welcomed Bordoloi into the BJP on Wednesday. Bordoloi took his membership in the BJP during ... Read more Assam MP Pradyut Bordoloi Joins BJP, Welcomed by CM Himanta Biswa Sarma
Assam MP Pradyut Bordoloi joins BJP; CM hints at recommending him for polls
Assam MP Pradyut Bordoloi has switched from Congress to BJP, a day after leaving his former party. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma welcomed him, suggesting Bordoloi will contest assembly elections. Bordoloi cited internal party issues and feeling insulted. This move precedes the upcoming Assam Assembly elections, with the BJP seeking a third term.
Day After Quitting Congress, Assam MP Pradyut Bordoloi Crosses Over To BJP
A day after quitting Congress, Assam Lok Sabha MP Pradyut Bordoloi on Wednesday crossed over to the rival BJP, barely weeks ahead of the assembly elections in the state.
MP Pradyut Bordoloi joins BJP after quitting Congress ahead of Assam polls
This has put a question mark on the fate of Mr. Bordolois son, Prateek Bordoloi, who is the Congress candidate from the Margherita Assembly seat in eastern Assam
A look at Eid al-Fitr and how Muslims celebrate the Islamic holiday
CAIRO, March 18, 2026 (AP) Muslims around the world are bidding farewell to the Islamic holy month of Ramadan and will soon start celebrating the holiday of Eid al-Fitr. Eid is typically greeted with joy and excitement and is marked with congregational prayers and festivities that usually include family visits, gatherings, outings and new clothes. But this year, Eid is approaching amid the Iran war, which has been roiling many countries in the Middle East and leading to far-reaching consequences beyond. In the United States, many Muslims observed Ramadans religious and social traditions this year under a cloud of
Assam Sees 86.5% Drop in Crimes Against Women, Claims Chief Minister Sarma
Guwahati, March 18: Assams Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Wednesday that crimes against women in the state have decreased by 86.5% since his government took office. He emphasized that ensuring womens safety remains a top priority. In a post on the social media platform X, Sarma stated that his government has implemented continuous ... Read more Assam Sees 86.5% Drop in Crimes Against Women, Claims Chief Minister Sarma
About 90 ships cross the Strait of Hormuz as Iran exports millions of barrels of oil despite the war
HONG KONG, March 18, 2026 (AP) About 90 ships including oil tankers have crossed the Strait of Hormuz since the outset of the war with Iran and it is still exporting millions of barrels of oil at a time when the waterway has been effectively closed, according to maritime and trade data platforms. Many of the vessels that passed through the strait were so-called dark transits evading Western government sanctions and oversight that likely have ties to Iran, maritime data firm Lloyds List Intelligence said. More recently, vessels with ties to India and Pakistan have also successfully crossed the
AAP candidate list: Aam Aadmi Party releases second list for Assam assembly elections 2026
The Aam Aadmi Party has unveiled its second list of six candidates for the 2026 Assam assembly elections. The party announced its nominees for key constituencies, including Barhampur, Diphu, Jorhat, North Karimganj, Palashbari, and Dispur. These selections come as the Election Commission of India has scheduled the polls for April 9.
Federal Reserve could signal no interest rate cuts this year in wake of Iran war
WASHINGTON, March 18, 2026 (AP) A key question hangs over the Federal Reserves two-day meeting that ends Wednesday: Will central bank policymakers still reduce short-term interest rates this year, now that the Iran war has sent oil prices higher and gas prices spiking? Or will they have to stand pat for months to see how the conflict plays out? Fed Chair Jerome Powell is almost certain to announce Wednesday that the central bank has kept its key rate unchanged for the second straight meeting at about 3.6%. But the Fed will also release a set of quarterly projections, and
Iran war has US farmers worried about the cost and availability of fertilizer
BISMARCK, N.D., March 18, 2026 (AP) Tennessee farmer Todd Littleton expects to pay $100,000 more for fertilizer this season, a 40% spike from his bill last year thanks to the war in Iran and he is scrambling to cover that extra cost. The problem is, is were so strained financially coming into this issue, said Littleton, a third-generation farmer from Gibson County in the states northwest corner. We have had a couple of record losses the last couple years, so everyones kinda grabbing at straws anyway, and then to have input prices increase yet again, it just really
Rupee falls 3 paise to 92.43 against US dollar in early trade
Mumbai, Mar 18 (PTI) The rupee fell 3 paise to 92.43 against the US dollar in early trade on Wednesday, weighed down by FII outflows and a stronger greenback amid the raging war in West Asia. A fall in global crude oil prices and a positive opening at the domestic equity markets prevented a sharper decline in the local unit, according to forex traders. At the interbank foreign exchange, the local unit opened at 92.42 against the greenback before slipping to 92.43, down 3 paise from its previous close. The domestic unit on Tuesday hit the lowest intra-day level of
How patients with hypertension and type 2 diabetes can add years to their lives
A new study shows that people with high blood pressure can lower their risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, and may even add years to their lives, by adopting simple, healthy lifestyle habits. High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects about 220 million adults in India, many of whom are unaware of their condition until serious complications set in. The condition strains blood vessels and vital organs such as the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes, raising the likelihood of heart attacks, strokes, and other life-threatening problems. Researchers from Harvard University in the United States and Huazhong University of Science
Assembly elections 2026 LIVE: ECI deploys over 1,000 Central observers for upcoming Assembly polls
Pradyut Bordoloi, the Congress MP from Assam's Nagaon Lok Sabha seat, quit the party following differences with State party president Gaurav Gogoi over candidate selection for the Laharighat Assembly constituency
Assam BJP to Contest 89 Seats in Upcoming Elections, Allies to Get 37: CM Sarma
New Delhi, March 18: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Tuesday that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will contest 89 seats in the upcoming assembly elections, while its allies will receive a total of 37 seats. According to the seat-sharing arrangement, the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) will contest 26 seats, and the Bodoland ... Read more Assam BJP to Contest 89 Seats in Upcoming Elections, Allies to Get 37: CM Sarma
Golden Opportunity for Banking Jobs: Apply Before April 20
Guwahati, March 18: A promising opportunity has emerged for youth aspiring to build a career in the banking sector. Assam Cooperative Apex Bank Limited (ACAB) has officially announced the recruitment for 15 positions of Assistant Branch Manager/Assistant Manager under Officer Grade-E. The application process for these positions has commenced in offline mode, with the deadline ... Read more Golden Opportunity for Banking Jobs: Apply Before April 20
Assam MP Pradyut Bordoloi quits Congress
The trigger for Bordoloi was the alleged humiliation by State party president Gaurav Gogoi over the selection of candidate for the Laharighat Assembly constituency
Assam Railway Project to Enhance Connectivity and Efficiency
Guwahati, March 17: Officials announced on Tuesday that the newly launched Furkating-New Tinsukia railway doubling project will significantly increase rail capacity, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen connectivity in eastern Assam and surrounding areas. The Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of Northeast Frontier Railway, Kapilanjal Kishore Sharma, stated that the project spans 194 kilometers and is ... Read more Assam Railway Project to Enhance Connectivity and Efficiency
BJP To Contest In 89 Out Of 126 Assembly Seats In Assam: Himanta Sarma
The BJP will contest 89 out of the total 126 seats in the upcoming Assam assembly elections and leave 37 seats for its allies, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Tuesday.
Major Setback for Assam Congress as MP Pradyut Bordoloi Resigns Ahead of Assembly Elections
New Delhi, March 17: The Congress party in Assam has faced a significant setback ahead of the state assembly elections. Pradyut Bordoloi, a Congress MP and a close associate of former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, resigned from the Indian National Congress on Tuesday. In his resignation letter addressed to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Bordoloi stated, ... Read more Major Setback for Assam Congress as MP Pradyut Bordoloi Resigns Ahead of Assembly Elections
60,000 crore subsidy, Amrit Bharat trains boost affordable rail travel: Vaishnaw
Railway Minister says at present, 133 Amrit Bharat trains are at various stages of manufacturing, with services already introduced in States such as West Bengal, Assam, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
I have not contacted Pradyut Bordoloi, but I believe he does not have the requirement to stay back in Congress. I advise him to join the BJP. I will welcome him to the party. Till now there has been no contact with him: Congress leader, Mr Sarma
Assam polls: BJP to contest 89 seats, AGP 26 and BPF 11, says Himanta Biswa Sarma
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the BJP will contest 89 seats, while allies Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and Bodoland People's Front (BPF) will be given 26 and 11 seats, respectively. Sarma also offered disgruntled Congress MP Pradyut Bordoloi the option to join the BJP and contest from any Assembly seat if he wishes.
US National Counterterrorism Center director resigns over war in Iran
WASHINGTON, March 17 (Reuters) The head of the National Counterterrorism Center resigned on Tuesday, becoming the first and most senior member of U.S. President Donald Trumps administration to resign over the war in Iran, saying Tehran posed no imminent threat to the United States. I cannot in good conscience support the ongoing war in Iran. Iran posed no imminent threat to our nation, and it is clear that we started this war due to pressure from Israel and its powerful lobby, Joseph Kent wrote in a letter to Trump posted on X. Some experts have said an imminent threat
Patch up for greater good, Assam citizens collective tells Congress, Raijor Dal
More than 170 intellectuals, social activists, and professionals said the deadlock between the two parties over one or two constituencies could defeat the goal of providing a democratic alternative
Chabahar Ports future uncertain amid recent developments: Parliamentary panel
New Delhi, Mar 17 (PTI) The recent development has cast a shadow on the future of Chabahar Port, a vital and strategic port for India, a parliamentary panel on external affairs has said, and welcomed that the Centre remains engaged with all concerned parties in order to address the implications of these developments. The Twelfth Report of the Committee on External Affairs (2025-26) on Demands for Grants (2026-27) of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), was presented in Parliament on Tuesday. The Committee of External Affairs is headed by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor. The observation by the panel, assumes significance
Assam polls put BPF chief Hagrama Mohilary in personal vs party dilemma
A tough choice faces Bodoland People's Front chief Hagrama Mohilary. His party loyalist Pramila Rani Brahma and wife Shiuli Mohilary are seeking the same Kokrajhar seat. Meanwhile, United People's Party Liberal has left the NDA. The upcoming elections in Assam are set to be closely watched as alliances shift and candidates emerge.
Lebanon has proposed the first direct talks with Israel in decades. It might be too late
BEIRUT, March 17, 2026 (AP) With airstrikes rocking Beirut and Israeli troops advancing against Hezbollah, Lebanons government has broken a taboo by proposing the first direct talks with Israel in decades. But Lebanese officials say they want the fighting to end first and it might be too late for that. Hezbollahs decision to enter the wider Iran war by firing rockets at Israel has led to the heavy Israeli bombardment of southern Lebanon and Beiruts southern suburbs, killing some 850 Lebanese and driving over a million people from their homes. The Iran-backed Hezbollah views the latest war as
Assam Assembly elections 2026: United Peoples Party Liberal walks out of NDA
The regional party led by Pramod Boro had asked the BJP a week ago to clarify its status in the saffron camp
India denies discussing release of tankers with Iran for Hormuz passage
NEW DELHI, March 17 (Reuters) India on Tuesday denied holding talks with Iran about releasing three tankers seized in February in exchange for ensuring safe passage for Indian ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Indian authorities seized the three Iran-linked ships near Indian waters alleging they had concealed or altered their identities and were involved in illegal ship-to-ship transfers at sea. Reuters reported on Monday, citing sources, that Iran had asked India to release the U.S.-sanctioned ships as part of talks seeking the safe passage of Indian-flagged or India-bound vessels out of the Gulf via the Strait. Traffic has
Assam Jatiya Parishad names candidates for 8 Assembly seats
The party, which is part of a Congress-led alliance in the State, will name its candidates for two more constituencies in which the grouping will contest as a united front, Lurinjoyti Gogoi said
Silver jumps Rs 6,000, gold rebounds Rs 1,050 on safe-haven demand
New Delhi, Mar 17 (PTI) Precious metal prices rebounded by up to 2 per cent, with silver gaining by Rs 6,000 to Rs 2.62 lakh per kilogram, and gold rose to Rs 1.61 lakh per 10 grams in the national capital on Tuesday, according to the All India Sarafa Association. The white metal increased by Rs 6,000, or 2.34 per cent, to Rs 2,62,500 per kg (inclusive of all taxes). Gold of 99.9 per cent purity in the bullion market also snapped its three-day losing streak, rising by Rs 1,050, or nearly 1 per cent, to Rs 1,61,300 per 10
Senior Assam Leader Threatens To Quit Congress Over Poll Nomination
Senior Congress leader and Lok Sabha MP Pradyut Bordoloi has warned the party leadership that he may resign from the Congress if Lahorighat MLA Asif Mohammad Nazar is renominated for the upcoming Assam Assembly elections.
Stock markets rally for 2nd day; Sensex climbs 567 pts on gains in metal, auto shares
Mumbai, Mar 17 (PTI) Benchmark Sensex climbed 567 points and Nifty closed near 23,600 in their second consecutive day of gains on Tuesday, boosted by a rally in metal and auto shares and a positive trend in global markets. The 30-share BSE Sensex jumped 567.99 points or 0.75 per cent to settle at 76,070.84. During the day, it surged 801.41 points or 1.06 per cent to 76,304.26. The 50-share NSE Nifty climbed 172.35 points or 0.74 per cent to end at 23,581.15. From the 30-Sensex firms, Eternal surged the most by 5.70 per cent. Tata Steel, Mahindra & Mahindra, Bharat
We will support anti-BJP government: AIUDF MLA Rafiqul Islam ahead of Assam polls
If there is an anti-BJP government here, we will support it. If we can become a part of it, then we will address the people's problems in the education sector, the health sector, and road communication, says AIUDF MLA
Assam CM Himanta offers prayers at Maa Baglamukhi Temple in MP ahead of election on April 9
Writing professors new task in age of AI: Teaching students when to struggle
Wellesley, Mar 17 (The Conversation) I was early to the generative AI wave in higher education: I was among the first professors who teach writing to publish in an academic journal about generative AI and critical thinking, and I am now part of an interdisciplinary team at Babson College thinking about how AI is impacting education, industry and society. But that does not mean I am all in on AI nor am I anti-AI. I am pro-learning. As my co-authors and I argue in a forthcoming book on realizing the promise of higher education, even the most powerful tools
Scream your way to happiness? Maybe not, but scream clubs promise some relief
ATLANTA, March 17, 2026 (AP) With a gut-wrenching wail that rippled from her body, Amber Walcker joined about a dozen screaming people in West Seattle who let their frustrations float away over the Puget Sound. It was just the start. The two group screams that followed, each one longer and more intense, released the pain from Walckers recent job loss. Her added stress from raising two young children dissolved as it blended with the sound of lapping water, and a deep sense of calm descended upon her. I had such a sense of feeling grounded. In that same moment,
Model Code of Conduct in force across four poll-bound States, one UT; almost 50% voters in Assam are women
Rupee falls 14 paise to 92.42 against US dollar in early trade
Mumbai, Mar 17 (PTI) The rupee lost 14 paise and traded at 92.42 against the US dollar in early deals on Tuesday, as it failed to resist pressure from rising crude oil prices and the incessant withdrawal of foreign funds amid the heightened West Asia crisis. Subdued domestic equity markets and elevated American currency also weighed on the local unit even as investors moved cautiously, awaiting the interest rate decision of the US Federal Reserve, according to forex traders. At the interbank foreign exchange, the local unit opened at 92.35 and fell further to trade at 92.42 against the US
Stair climbing is great exercise
Climbing stairs is an accessible and effective form of cardiovascular exercise that promotes heart health by increasing heart rate and improving circulation. Regular stair climbing helps strengthen leg muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves, while enhancing overall endurance and stamina. This activity also supports weight management by burning calories efficiently and boosting metabolism. Additionally, stair climbing can improve bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis, and enhance balance and coordination. Incorporating stair climbing into daily routines offers a convenient way to elevate physical fitness without the need for special equipment or gym memberships. Overview of Climbing Stairs Climbing stairs
