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New Delhi: India and the European Union are set to deepen their strategic partnership with a flurry of high-level engagements in the coming weeks, following the landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) sealed in January. The deal, described by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as the “mother of all deals,” created a vast free trade zone encompassing nearly two billion people and is poised to significantly boost bilateral trade, currently valued at around $136 billion annually.&nbsp;Later this month, an 11-member delegation from the European Parliament, led by Angelika Niebler, Chair of the Delegation for Relations with India, will travel to India. The visit aims to strengthen parliamentary ties and build on the momentum from the January summit in New Delhi, where EU leaders joined India’s Republic Day celebrations as chief guests.&nbsp;&nbsp;In May, senior officials from both sides are expected to hold consultations focused on Indo-Pacific issues, highlighting shared interests in maritime security, supply chain resilience, and regional stability amid ongoing global uncertainties.&nbsp;The India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) is slated to convene at the ministerial level in late June or early July, awaiting final confirmation from New Delhi. The meeting will advance cooperation on digital trade, emerging technologies such as AI and 6G, and green innovation, key pillars of the newly endorsed “Towards 2030: EU-India Comprehensive Strategic Agenda.”&nbsp;Further visits of EU commissioners covering various aspects of the strategic agenda are in the plans for the rest of the year.India and the EU are targeting completion of a Security of Information Agreement by the end of this year, paving the way for secure sharing of classified data and enhanced defence and intelligence collaboration. This follows the Security and Defence Partnership agreed at the January summit. The engagements build on External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s recent trip to Brussels, where discussions covered FTA implementation, the West Asia war, the Ukraine war, and Indo-Pacific priorities.&nbsp;The January summit marked a turning point, with leaders endorsing a broad strategic roadmap covering prosperity, sustainability, technology, security, connectivity, and people-to-people links. The FTA promises tariff eliminations or reductions, opening markets for Indian exports in textiles, leather, gems, and pharmaceuticals while granting European firms better access to automobiles, machinery, and spirits.

India and the EU are targeting completion of a Security of Information Agreement by the end of this year, paving the way for secure sharing of classified data and enhanced defence and intelligence collaboration. This follows the Security and Defence Partnership agreed at the January summit.

New Delhi: India and the European Union are set to deepen their strategic partnership with a flurry of high-level engagements in the coming weeks, following the landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) sealed in January. The deal, described by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as the “mother of all deals,” created a vast free trade zone encompassing nearly two billion people and is poised to significantly boost bilateral trade, currently valued at around $136 billion annually. Later this month, an 11-member delegation from the European Parliament, led by Angelika Niebler, Chair of the Delegation for Relations with India, will travel to India. The visit aims to strengthen parliamentary ties and build on the momentum from the January summit in New Delhi, where EU leaders joined India’s Republic Day celebrations as chief guests. In May, senior officials from both sides are expected to hold consultations focused on Indo-Pacific issues, highlighting shared interests in maritime security, supply chain resilience, and regional stability amid ongoing global uncertainties. The India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) is slated to convene at the ministerial level in late June or early July, awaiting final confirmation from New Delhi. The meeting will advance cooperation on digital trade, emerging technologies such as AI and 6G, and green innovation, key pillars of the newly endorsed “Towards 2030: EU-India Comprehensive Strategic Agenda.” Further visits of EU commissioners covering various aspects of the strategic agenda are in the plans for the rest of the year. India and the EU are targeting completion of a Security of Information Agreement by the end of this year, paving the way for secure sharing of classified data and enhanced defence and intelligence collaboration. This follows the Security and Defence Partnership agreed at the January summit. The engagements build on External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s recent trip to Brussels, where discussions covered FTA implementation, the West Asia war, the Ukraine war, and Indo-Pacific priorities. The January summit marked a turning point, with leaders endorsing a broad strategic roadmap covering prosperity, sustainability, technology, security, connectivity, and people-to-people links. The FTA promises tariff eliminations or reductions, opening markets for Indian exports in textiles, leather, gems, and pharmaceuticals while granting European firms better access to automobiles, machinery, and spirits.

India and the EU are targeting completion of a Security of Information Agreement by the end of this year, paving the way for secure sharing of classified data and enhanced defence and intelligence collaboration. This follows the Security and Defence Partnership agreed at the January summit.

India and EU to deepen ties with flurry of high-level visits after landmark trade deal

India delivered a 2.5-ton consignment of emergency medicines, medical disposables, kits and equipment to Afghanistan on March 20 to support the treatment of victims of a Pakistani airstrike on a drug addiction treatment clinic in Kabul, which resulted in the deaths of over 400 people and injured more than 250.&nbsp;"To support the medical treatment and swift recovery of those injured in the heinous attack on March 16, India has delivered a 2.5-ton consignment of emergency medicines, medical disposables, kits and equipment to Kabul," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a statement on X.&nbsp;Jaiswal added that India stands in solidarity with the Afghan people and will continue to extend all possible humanitarian support in this difficult hour.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">To support the medical treatment and swift recovery of those injured in the heinous attack on 16 March, India delivers a 2.5-ton consignment of emergency medicines, medical disposables, kits and equipment to Kabul. India stands in solidarity with the Afghan people and will… <a href="https://t.co/9dDu589tiY">pic.twitter.com/9dDu589tiY</a>&mdash; Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/2034974274373492978?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

New Delhi’s support comes after Afghanistan on Tuesday confirmed that more than 408 individuals undergoing treatment for narcotics addiction were killed and over 265 were injured in a Pakistani strike on a drug rehabilitation clinic in Kabul on the night of March 16. The Pakistani military targeted what Kabul described as "one of the most vulnerable and deserving-of-compassion segments of society."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mass-funeral-in-afghanistan-for-victims-of-pakistan-rehab-center-strike-taliban-vows-revenge-1773838014662">Mass funeral in Afghanistan for victims of Pakistan rehab centre strike; Taliban vows revenge</a>&nbsp;On Tuesday, India officially condemned the Pakistani strike on the Omid Drug Addiction Treatment Hospital, describing it as a "barbaric" and "unconscionable" act.&nbsp;"India unequivocally condemns Pakistan's barbaric airstrike on the Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital in Kabul on the night of March 16. This is a cowardly and unconscionable act of violence that has claimed the lives of a large number of civilians in a facility which can by no means be justified as a military target. Pakistan is now trying to dress up a massacre as a military operation," the MEA said in a statement.<h2>Pakistan and Afghanistan announce temporary ceasefire</h2>Pakistan and Afghanistan declared a temporary cessation of hostilities on Wednesday at the request of international mediators, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Türkiye, and it is timed to coincide with the Eid al-Fitr holiday marking the end of Ramadan.&nbsp;However, Pakistani Information Minister Attaullah Tarar warned that while the gesture was made in "good faith," operations would "immediately resume with renewed intensity" if any cross-border or terrorist attacks occur inside Pakistan during this period.&nbsp;Pakistan has repeatedly accused its north-western neighbour of supporting Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and providing sanctuary to terrorists targeting Islamabad, claims that Afghanistan has denied multiple times.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Afghan Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani stated during a mass funeral in Kabul that while they prefer diplomacy, they "will take revenge" for the hospital strike.

New Delhi’s support comes after Afghanistan on Tuesday confirmed that more than 408 individuals undergoing treatment for narcotics addiction were killed and over 265 were injured in a Pakistani strike on a drug rehabilitation clinic in Kabul.

India delivered a 2.5-ton consignment of emergency medicines, medical disposables, kits and equipment to Afghanistan on March 20 to support the treatment of victims of a Pakistani airstrike on a drug addiction treatment clinic in Kabul, which resulted in the deaths of over 400 people and injured more than 250. "To support the medical treatment and swift recovery of those injured in the heinous attack on March 16, India has delivered a 2.5-ton consignment of emergency medicines, medical disposables, kits and equipment to Kabul," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a statement on X. Jaiswal added that India stands in solidarity with the Afghan people and will continue to extend all possible humanitarian support in this difficult hour.

New Delhi’s support comes after Afghanistan on Tuesday confirmed that more than 408 individuals undergoing treatment for narcotics addiction were killed and over 265 were injured in a Pakistani strike on a drug rehabilitation clinic in Kabul.

India sends humanitarian aid to Afghanistan after Pakistani strikes kill over 400 in Kabul rehab hospital

A 24-carat gold-plated Shri Ram Yantra weighing around 150 kg and carved out from five metals (panch dhatu) was installed on the second floor of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya by President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday, the first day of Navratri. Shri Ram Yantra is a Vedic geometric structure designed to channel positive energy, invoke divine blessings, and enhance spiritual harmony for devotees and the temple town.&nbsp;&nbsp;The yantra is a finely detailed diagram etched with intricate religious patterns featuring multiple interlocking triangles, precise trigonometric alignments, and concentric patterns designed in accordance with traditional shilpa shastra principles.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-mulling-kharg-island-takeover-to-force-iran-to-open-strait-of-hormuz-report-1774004752258">Trump mulling Kharg Island takeover to force Iran to open Strait of Hormuz: Report</a>&nbsp;The geometric forms along with sacred inscriptions in Devanagari script are believed to act as channels of divine energy, creating a spiritually charged and harmonious environment.Unlike a conventional idol, a yantra in Hindu tradition represents a metaphysical blueprint of cosmic forces. The Shri Ram Yantra is associated with invoking the presence, protection, and blessings of Lord Ram. It symbolically invites Lord Ram to reside eternally at the temple and also invokes Lord Hanuman as a guardian force to protect the sacred space from negative influences.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-not-putting-troops-in-iran-want-japan-to-step-up-says-trump-claims-iran-leadership-gone-1773939473299">‘Not putting troops in Iran, want Japan to step up,’ says Trump; claims Iran leadership ‘gone’</a><h2>Yantra was crafted and consecrated in Kanchipuram</h2>&nbsp;The yantra was crafted at a monastery in Kanchipuram and transported via Tirupati before reaching Ayodhya through a ceremonial procession.&nbsp;It was consecrated in Kanchipuram under the guidance of Jagadguru Sri Shankara Vijayendra Saraswathi of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham with elaborate Vedic rituals and purification ceremonies.&nbsp;The yantra has been modelled on an ancient Shri Ram Yantra housed in a temple in Kanchipuram, reflecting continuity of a centuries-old spiritual tradition.&nbsp;Swami Govind Giri Maharaj, Treasurer of the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra, said the Ram Yantra has been installed in the sanctum sanctorum on the second floor.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-nations-and-japan-condemn-iran-for-attacks-say-ready-for-efforts-to-ensure-safe-passage-in-hormuz-1773931556678">European nations and Japan condemn Iran for attacks, say ready for ‘efforts’ to ensure safe passage in Hormuz</a><h2>‘Ram Yantra installation marks the completion of Ram Janmabhoomi Temple’: CM Yogi</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the installation of Ram Yantra marks the completion of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple and fills every follower of Sanatan Dharma and every true Indian with joy.&nbsp;Yogi also praised the new generation of India for their devotion towards the gods. “This is a new India and a changing India. The new generation is on the right path. They go to temples to celebrate the new year, not to some tourist destination,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-may-impose-toll-and-taxes-on-ships-passing-through-strait-of-hormuz-1773918080590">Iran may impose toll and taxes on ships passing through Strait of Hormuz</a>&nbsp;Vedic scholars say yantras act as a conduit for cosmic energy, promoting meditation, spiritual awakening, and a connection with divine. The Ram Yantra symbolises Lord Ram’s virtues of dharma, courage, wisdom, and righteousness, they added.

The Shri Ram Yantra was crafted at a monastery in Kanchipuram and transported via Tirupati to Ayodhya in a ceremonial procession. It was consecrated under the guidance of Jagadguru Sri Shankara Vijayendra Saraswathi of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham with elaborate Vedic rituals.

A 24-carat gold-plated Shri Ram Yantra weighing around 150 kg and carved out from five metals (panch dhatu) was installed on the second floor of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya by President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday, the first day of Navratri. Shri Ram Yantra is a Vedic geometric structure designed to channel positive energy, invoke divine blessings, and enhance spiritual harmony for devotees and the temple town. The yantra is a finely detailed diagram etched with intricate religious patterns featuring multiple interlocking triangles, precise trigonometric alignments, and concentric patterns designed in accordance with traditional shilpa shastra principles. Also Read: Trump mulling Kharg Island takeover to force Iran to open Strait of Hormuz: Report The geometric forms along with sacred inscriptions in Devanagari script are believed to act as channels of divine energy, creating a spiritually charged and harmonious environment. Unlike a conventional idol, a yantra in Hindu tradition represents a metaphysical blueprint of cosmic forces. The Shri Ram Yantra is associated with invoking the presence, protection, and blessings of Lord Ram. It symbolically invites Lord Ram to reside eternally at the temple and also invokes Lord Hanuman as a guardian force to protect the sacred space from negative influences. Also Read: ‘Not putting troops in Iran, want Japan to step up,’ says Trump; claims Iran leadership ‘gone’ Yantra was crafted and consecrated in Kanchipuram The yantra was crafted at a monastery in Kanchipuram and transported via Tirupati before reaching Ayodhya through a ceremonial procession. It was consecrated in Kanchipuram under the guidance of Jagadguru Sri Shankara Vijayendra Saraswathi of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham with elaborate Vedic rituals and purification ceremonies. The yantra has been modelled on an ancient Shri Ram Yantra housed in a temple in Kanchipuram, reflecting continuity of a centuries-old spiritual tradition. Swami Govind Giri Maharaj, Treasurer of the Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra, said the Ram Yantra has been installed in the sanctum sanctorum on the second floor. Also Read: European nations and Japan condemn Iran for attacks, say ready for ‘efforts’ to ensure safe passage in Hormuz ‘Ram Yantra installation marks the completion of Ram Janmabhoomi Temple’: CM Yogi Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the installation of Ram Yantra marks the completion of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple and fills every follower of Sanatan Dharma and every true Indian with joy. Yogi also praised the new generation of India for their devotion towards the gods. “This is a new India and a changing India. The new generation is on the right path. They go to temples to celebrate the new year, not to some tourist destination,” he said. Also Read: Iran may impose toll and taxes on ships passing through Strait of Hormuz Vedic scholars say yantras act as a conduit for cosmic energy, promoting meditation, spiritual awakening, and a connection with divine. The Ram Yantra symbolises Lord Ram’s virtues of dharma, courage, wisdom, and righteousness, they added.

The Shri Ram Yantra was crafted at a monastery in Kanchipuram and transported via Tirupati to Ayodhya in a ceremonial procession. It was consecrated under the guidance of Jagadguru Sri Shankara Vijayendra Saraswathi of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham with elaborate Vedic rituals.

Gold-plated 150 kg Ram Yantra installed in Ram Temple at Ayodhya. What is its significance?

India's premium petrol price has been increased by up to Rs 2.35 per litre by the oil marketing companies with immediate effect on Friday amid the West Asia war, leading to disruptions in the global energy market. Let's have a look at how much people in metro cities are paying for petrol.

Petrol gets costlier: Premium fuel up by Rs 2.35/L - Check latest rates in top cities

India remained under a blanket of dense cloud cover on Friday (March 20) as satellite imagery revealed the widespread influence of an active Western disturbance affecting northern and central regions of the country. The images showed a thick cloud band stretching across North India, highlighting significant atmospheric instability and active weather systems dominating the region.<h2>Western disturbance triggers widespread rain</h2>According to the India Meteorological Department, the current weather pattern is being driven by a strong Western disturbance positioned over North Punjab and nearby areas. This system is interacting with cyclonic circulations over Haryana as well as parts of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Supported by a well-defined trough line, these conditions have led to moderate to heavy rainfall across several parts of North India.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, another Western disturbance is expected to impact northwest India starting March 22, which may further alter weather patterns in the coming days. Although North India remains the most affected, satellite observations show cloud activity spreading across central and eastern regions, with rainfall expected to gradually shift eastward.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-records-wettest-march-in-three-years-aqi-at-123-after-rain-1773992464289">Delhi logs wettest March in three years; AQI at 123 after rain</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">(1)Nowcast Weather Warning Date of issue: 20-03-2026 Valid upto: 1900 Hrs IST Red warning is issued for thunderstorm and lightning with hail and heavy rain(&gt;15mm/hr) over Mayurbhanj district of Odisha. Orange warning is issued for moderate thunderstorm, lightning and gusty… <a href="https://t.co/u1xZYOE62A">pic.twitter.com/u1xZYOE62A</a>&mdash; India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) <a href="https://twitter.com/Indiametdept/status/2034949884986744896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What satellite imagery shows?</h2>Infrared satellite imagery indicates moderate to very intense convective activity across multiple regions. The IR-1 channel, used for monitoring cloud and surface temperatures, provides key insights: Bright white patches indicate high-altitude, cold cloud tops typically linked to strong storm activity; Darker regions reflect warmer surfaces or lower cloud formations. This technology plays a crucial role in tracking storm intensity, rainfall distribution, and atmospheric movement, even during nighttime.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-govt-seeks-aadhar-app-on-new-devices-uidai-says-move-will-improve-access-1774008001932/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-govt-seeks-aadhar-app-on-new-devices-uidai-says-move-will-improve-access-1774008001932/embed</a><h2>Weather outlook for March 20</h2>For North India, including Delhi-NCR, forecasts suggest:<ul><li>Predominantly cloudy skies throughout the day</li><li>Light rain during the morning hours</li><li>Light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms later in the day</li><li>Gusty winds reaching speeds of 30–40 kmph in the afternoon and evening</li></ul>Meteorologists warn that the next 6–8 hours are particularly critical, with moderate to heavy rainfall expected before conditions improve by evening.

Satellite images show widespread clouds as Western disturbance triggers rain across North India

India remained under a blanket of dense cloud cover on Friday (March 20) as satellite imagery revealed the widespread influence of an active Western disturbance affecting northern and central regions of the country. The images showed a thick cloud band stretching across North India, highlighting significant atmospheric instability and active weather systems dominating the region. Western disturbance triggers widespread rain According to the India Meteorological Department, the current weather pattern is being driven by a strong Western disturbance positioned over North Punjab and nearby areas. This system is interacting with cyclonic circulations over Haryana as well as parts of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Supported by a well-defined trough line, these conditions have led to moderate to heavy rainfall across several parts of North India. Additionally, another Western disturbance is expected to impact northwest India starting March 22, which may further alter weather patterns in the coming days. Although North India remains the most affected, satellite observations show cloud activity spreading across central and eastern regions, with rainfall expected to gradually shift eastward. Also Read: Delhi logs wettest March in three years; AQI at 123 after rain

Western Disturbance brings dense clouds, rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds across North India; IMD warns of intense weather over the next few hours

India has stepped up its diplomatic outreach amid the ongoing tensions in West Asia, with PM Modi holding discussions with five world leaders, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday (March 20, 2026). Randhir Jaiswal, MEA spokesperson, confirmed that the Prime Minister spoke with the leaders of France, Malaysia, Oman, Jordan and Qatar, outlining India's position on the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The MEA said the Prime Minister emphasised the urgent need to prioritise dialogue and diplomacy to reduce tensions and work towards restoring peace and stability. He also strongly condemned attacks on critical energy infrastructure. "PM spoke with 5 world leaders yesterday. He spoke to leaders of Oman, Malaysia, France, Jordan, and Qatar. In these conversations, the Prime Minister put forth India's position on the ongoing conflict in West Asia. He highlighted the need to prioritise dialogue and diplomacy for de-escalation and the subsequent restoration of peace and stability. The Prime Minister strongly condemned attacks on energy infrastructure. Prime Minister and the various leaders reiterated their support for safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, news agency ANI reported.<h3>PM Modi spoke with the Sultan of Oman</h3>Similarly, in a separate interaction, PM Modi spoke with the Sultan of Oman and extended advance Eid greetings to him and to the people of the country. Additionally, he reiterated India's stance against any violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Oman. "The Prime Minister spoke with the Sultan of Oman and conveyed advance Eid greetings to him and to the people of Oman. The Prime Minister reiterated India's condemnation of the violation of Oman's sovereignty and territorial integrity and appreciated Oman's efforts in facilitating the safe return of Indian nationals," the MEA added. PM Modi also talked with the French President Emmanuel Macron. "The Prime Minister also had a conversation with the President of France, His Excellency Emmanuel Macron. Both leaders discussed the situation in West Asia. They agreed to continue close coordination to advance peace and stability in the region and beyond," Jaiswal said. Discussing the ongoing situation in the West Asia region and the significance of ensuring uninterrupted energy and goods transit, PM Modi also spoke with King of Jordan Abdullah II "The Prime Minister also had a conversation with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan. He had also earlier spoken to King Abdullah and conveyed Eid greetings. Both leaders discussed the evolving situation in West Asia. They also strongly condemned attacks on energy infrastructure, noting the risk of avoidable escalation. Both sides reaffirmed the support for unhindered transit of goods and energy," he said. He added that India appreciated the role of Jordan in helping Indians trapped amid the ongoing war. "Indians who were stranded in Israel during the war, during this conflict, have been exiting to Jordan and from there coming home," Jaiswal added.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-uk-providing-us-access-to-military-bases-would-be-considered-participation-in-aggression-1773999642447">Iran warns UK: Providing US access to military bases would be considered ‘participation in aggression’</a>

The MEA said the Prime Minister emphasised the urgent need to prioritise dialogue and diplomacy to reduce tensions and work towards restoring peace and stability. He also strongly condemned attacks on critical energy infrastructure.

India has stepped up its diplomatic outreach amid the ongoing tensions in West Asia, with PM Modi holding discussions with five world leaders, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday (March 20, 2026). Randhir Jaiswal, MEA spokesperson, confirmed that the Prime Minister spoke with the leaders of France, Malaysia, Oman, Jordan and Qatar, outlining India's position on the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The MEA said the Prime Minister emphasised the urgent need to prioritise dialogue and diplomacy to reduce tensions and work towards restoring peace and stability. He also strongly condemned attacks on critical energy infrastructure. "PM spoke with 5 world leaders yesterday. He spoke to leaders of Oman, Malaysia, France, Jordan, and Qatar. In these conversations, the Prime Minister put forth India's position on the ongoing conflict in West Asia. He highlighted the need to prioritise dialogue and diplomacy for de-escalation and the subsequent restoration of peace and stability. The Prime Minister strongly condemned attacks on energy infrastructure. Prime Minister and the various leaders reiterated their support for safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, news agency ANI reported. PM Modi spoke with the Sultan of Oman Similarly, in a separate interaction, PM Modi spoke with the Sultan of Oman and extended advance Eid greetings to him and to the people of the country. Additionally, he reiterated India's stance against any violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Oman. "The Prime Minister spoke with the Sultan of Oman and conveyed advance Eid greetings to him and to the people of Oman. The Prime Minister reiterated India's condemnation of the violation of Oman's sovereignty and territorial integrity and appreciated Oman's efforts in facilitating the safe return of Indian nationals," the MEA added. PM Modi also talked with the French President Emmanuel Macron. "The Prime Minister also had a conversation with the President of France, His Excellency Emmanuel Macron. Both leaders discussed the situation in West Asia. They agreed to continue close coordination to advance peace and stability in the region and beyond," Jaiswal said. Discussing the ongoing situation in the West Asia region and the significance of ensuring uninterrupted energy and goods transit, PM Modi also spoke with King of Jordan Abdullah II "The Prime Minister also had a conversation with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan. He had also earlier spoken to King Abdullah and conveyed Eid greetings. Both leaders discussed the evolving situation in West Asia. They also strongly condemned attacks on energy infrastructure, noting the risk of avoidable escalation. Both sides reaffirmed the support for unhindered transit of goods and energy," he said. He added that India appreciated the role of Jordan in helping Indians trapped amid the ongoing war. "Indians who were stranded in Israel during the war, during this conflict, have been exiting to Jordan and from there coming home," Jaiswal added. Also read: Iran warns UK: Providing US access to military bases would be considered ‘participation in aggression’

The MEA said the Prime Minister emphasised the urgent need to prioritise dialogue and diplomacy to reduce tensions and work towards restoring peace and stability. He also strongly condemned attacks on critical energy infrastructure.

'India steps up diplomacy outreach amid rising tensions in West Asia; PM Modi speaks to 5 global leaders': MEA

Prices of premium petrol in India have increased by up to Rs 2.35 from Thursday (Mar 20) as Oil marketing companies (OMCs) are pushed to absorb the higher crude oil import costs. This comes amid the rising uncertainty over global energy supply during the Iran war. As the conflict in West Asia enters its third week, hostilities continue to rise. The war, which started on February 28 after US and Israeli forces launched joint strikes on Tehran, killing its supreme leader Ali Khamenei, has rattled global energy markets. This week, Brent crude reached as high as nearly $108 a barrel.<h2>Petrol price today</h2>According to ANI, Prices of BPCL’s Speed, HPCL’s Power, and IOCL’s XP95 have been increased by Rs 2.09-Rs 2.35 per litre. However, the price of regular petrol remains unchanged currently.Perium or high-octane fuels are considered to provide higher performance with better engine efficiency and smoother performance. These alternative fuels are used in select vehicles and make up a smaller share of overall fuel consumption.<h2>Why are fuel prices rising?</h2>Amid the escalating tensions in West Asia, Iran has shut down the Strait of Hormuz and warned that any vessel attempting to pass could be targeted and set on fire, with several oil tankers being hit in recent days. In recent days, at least 3 India-flagged LPG tankers have crossed the strait after discussions with Iran.The Strait of Hormuz is the only maritime outlet for ports located in the Persian Gulf. Its blockage has significantly affected global energy supply, triggering a sharp rise in oil prices.On February 28, the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Azerbaijan.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Premium petrol prices in India rose up to Rs 2.35 amid Strait of Hormuz disruption and the Iran war, as crude oil surged and global energy supply tightened.

Prices of premium petrol in India have increased by up to Rs 2.35 from Thursday (Mar 20) as Oil marketing companies (OMCs) are pushed to absorb the higher crude oil import costs. This comes amid the rising uncertainty over global energy supply during the Iran war. As the conflict in West Asia enters its third week, hostilities continue to rise. The war, which started on February 28 after US and Israeli forces launched joint strikes on Tehran, killing its supreme leader Ali Khamenei, has rattled global energy markets. This week, Brent crude reached as high as nearly $108 a barrel. Petrol price today According to ANI, Prices of BPCL’s Speed, HPCL’s Power, and IOCL’s XP95 have been increased by Rs 2.09-Rs 2.35 per litre. However, the price of regular petrol remains unchanged currently. Perium or high-octane fuels are considered to provide higher performance with better engine efficiency and smoother performance. These alternative fuels are used in select vehicles and make up a smaller share of overall fuel consumption. Why are fuel prices rising? Amid the escalating tensions in West Asia, Iran has shut down the Strait of Hormuz and warned that any vessel attempting to pass could be targeted and set on fire, with several oil tankers being hit in recent days. In recent days, at least 3 India-flagged LPG tankers have crossed the strait after discussions with Iran. The Strait of Hormuz is the only maritime outlet for ports located in the Persian Gulf. Its blockage has significantly affected global energy supply, triggering a sharp rise in oil prices. On February 28, the US and Israeli military launched strikes on Iran, killing Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei and several other top Iranian officials. The operation was named ‘Epic Fury’ by the US and ‘Lion’s Roar’ by Israel. The attacks came amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran and ongoing talks over Iran’s nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched attacks on Israel and US military bases in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Azerbaijan. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Premium petrol prices in India rose up to Rs 2.35 amid Strait of Hormuz disruption and the Iran war, as crude oil surged and global energy supply tightened.

Premium petrol price hike by Rs 2.35 per litre in India amid Iran war – Check fuel rates today

The American national arrested on charges of illegally entering India to go to Myanmar for training ethnic insurgents has previously revealed surprising details, describing his role in recruiting and preparing “fighters” for conflict zones across the world. But, as he framed it, the mission wasn’t about sending outsiders into foreign wars.&nbsp;"We are not sending foreigners over to fight wars for other people. We're sending people over who can help the local population fight wars for themselves. We have a limited amount of time, possibly only four to six weeks, to get them trained, ready to take part in the offensive," NDTV quoted the American identified as Matthew Aaron VanDyke as saying in a show by the YouTube channel, History NOW, over a decade ago.&nbsp;Now, investigators are examining whether those past claims offer clues to his alleged activities in India, including accusations that he travelled onward to Myanmar to train ethnic armed organisations. But a more complex question arises: what truly drives a man who has spent years positioning himself at the frontlines of conflicts around the world?&nbsp;"There are no other groups that are working with Christian militias that we work with. Liberty is a universal right. I want Sons of Liberty to be able to change the course of history," VanDyke said on History NOW.<h3>VanDyke trained Iraqis to kill ISIS</h3>In the series, VanDyke also claimed to train Iraqis to kill ISIS after they began taking cities. When questioned about the types of 'candidates' he employed for his work, whose nature is not of the ordinary kind? He responds, "We get all types... But we are very selective. So what I'm doing now is going through applicants."&nbsp;"I'm looking for people who want to come because they believe in the model of training local forces to resolve problems for themselves. We have a preference for former special forces, especially Green Berets," VanDyke said. "The training area will be very close to the frontline. I try to dissuade them now because it's a very, very different way of operating than when they served in an organised military. The accommodation is probably going to be given in an abandoned house in the town," he added. "Electricity comes and goes. It's within walking distance of the frontline. And there won't be surf and turf."&nbsp;Matthew Aaron VanDyke was arrested at Kolkata Airport on March 13, while six others, Ukrainian nationals, were detained from different cities. Based on the FIR, all of them entered India on tourist visas at different times, later flew to Guwahati, and then travelled to Mizoram without the required permits before allegedly crossing illegally into Myanmar, where ethnic armed organisations are engaged in conflict with the military junta.&nbsp;The report further states that the group provided training to these organisations in advanced asymmetric warfare tactics, including drone operations, and had also brought drones with them.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-security-must-be-taken-away-iran-s-new-supreme-leader-mojtaba-khamenei-warns-enemies-after-intelligence-minister-esmail-khatib-s-killing-1773993250118"> ‘Security must be taken away’: Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei warns ‘enemies’ after Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib’s killing</a>

Matthew Aaron VanDyke was arrested at Kolkata Airport on March 13, while six others, Ukrainian nationals, were detained from different cities. All of them entered India on tourist visas at different times to cross Myanmar illegally.

The American national arrested on charges of illegally entering India to go to Myanmar for training ethnic insurgents has previously revealed surprising details, describing his role in recruiting and preparing “fighters” for conflict zones across the world. But, as he framed it, the mission wasn’t about sending outsiders into foreign wars. "We are not sending foreigners over to fight wars for other people. We're sending people over who can help the local population fight wars for themselves. We have a limited amount of time, possibly only four to six weeks, to get them trained, ready to take part in the offensive," NDTV quoted the American identified as Matthew Aaron VanDyke as saying in a show by the YouTube channel, History NOW, over a decade ago. Now, investigators are examining whether those past claims offer clues to his alleged activities in India, including accusations that he travelled onward to Myanmar to train ethnic armed organisations. But a more complex question arises: what truly drives a man who has spent years positioning himself at the frontlines of conflicts around the world? "There are no other groups that are working with Christian militias that we work with. Liberty is a universal right. I want Sons of Liberty to be able to change the course of history," VanDyke said on History NOW. VanDyke trained Iraqis to kill ISIS In the series, VanDyke also claimed to train Iraqis to kill ISIS after they began taking cities. When questioned about the types of 'candidates' he employed for his work, whose nature is not of the ordinary kind? He responds, "We get all types... But we are very selective. So what I'm doing now is going through applicants." "I'm looking for people who want to come because they believe in the model of training local forces to resolve problems for themselves. We have a preference for former special forces, especially Green Berets," VanDyke said. "The training area will be very close to the frontline. I try to dissuade them now because it's a very, very different way of operating than when they served in an organised military. The accommodation is probably going to be given in an abandoned house in the town," he added. "Electricity comes and goes. It's within walking distance of the frontline. And there won't be surf and turf." Matthew Aaron VanDyke was arrested at Kolkata Airport on March 13, while six others, Ukrainian nationals, were detained from different cities. Based on the FIR, all of them entered India on tourist visas at different times, later flew to Guwahati, and then travelled to Mizoram without the required permits before allegedly crossing illegally into Myanmar, where ethnic armed organisations are engaged in conflict with the military junta. The report further states that the group provided training to these organisations in advanced asymmetric warfare tactics, including drone operations, and had also brought drones with them. Also read: ‘Security must be taken away’: Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei warns ‘enemies’ after Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib’s killing

Matthew Aaron VanDyke was arrested at Kolkata Airport on March 13, while six others, Ukrainian nationals, were detained from different cities. All of them entered India on tourist visas at different times to cross Myanmar illegally.

Mission of US man arrested in India revealed in old clip, says 'we train locals to...'

Delhi has experienced a spell of light rain and gusty winds on early Friday morning, making it the wettest March in three years, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Following the rain, IMD also issued a yellow alert in the wake of a gloomy sky as the city woke up at 16 degrees Celsius, 0.5 degrees below normal, on March 20, 2026.&nbsp;The nearby areas of the national capital, including Noida, Gurugram, and Faridabad, also saw sudden rain and cold showers, bringing respite from the increase in temperature in March. “Generally cloudy skies, with a spell of very light to light rain accompanied by thunderstorm/lightning and strong surface winds of 30–40 kmph, gusting to 50 kmph, are likely in the morning," the IMD said while issuing a yellow alert for the city.&nbsp;“The system is expected to intensify over central Pakistan and adjoining parts of Punjab and Haryana from Thursday, leading to further rainfall over the next two days,” meteorological expert Mahesh Palawat said, as reported by PTI. “Current models suggest that weather conditions on March 20 are likely to be more intense,” he added.<h3>Delhi AQI touches 123 after rain</h3>The Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi after the rain was recorded at 123, placing it in the “moderate” category, as per the Central Pollution Control Board. Several locations also fell within this range, including Anand Vihar (176), Dwarka (118), RK Puram (176), Chandni Chowk (118), Bawana (123), and JNU (106).&nbsp;The CPCB explains that the AQI scale runs from 0 to 500 and is divided into six categories, each indicating the level of pollution and its potential health impact. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered “good,” with little to no health risk. Levels between 51 and 100 are categorised as “satisfactory,” where air quality is generally acceptable, though vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions may experience minor discomfort.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/showers-bring-respite-in-delhi-imd-issues-yellow-alert-in-the-national-capital-1773851489353"> Showers bring respite in Delhi; IMD issues yellow alert in the national capital</a>

The nearby areas of the national capital of India, including Noida, Gurugram, and Faridabad, also saw sudden rain and cold showers, bringing respite from the increase in temperature in March.

Delhi has experienced a spell of light rain and gusty winds on early Friday morning, making it the wettest March in three years, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Following the rain, IMD also issued a yellow alert in the wake of a gloomy sky as the city woke up at 16 degrees Celsius, 0.5 degrees below normal, on March 20, 2026. The nearby areas of the national capital, including Noida, Gurugram, and Faridabad, also saw sudden rain and cold showers, bringing respite from the increase in temperature in March. “Generally cloudy skies, with a spell of very light to light rain accompanied by thunderstorm/lightning and strong surface winds of 30–40 kmph, gusting to 50 kmph, are likely in the morning," the IMD said while issuing a yellow alert for the city. “The system is expected to intensify over central Pakistan and adjoining parts of Punjab and Haryana from Thursday, leading to further rainfall over the next two days,” meteorological expert Mahesh Palawat said, as reported by PTI. “Current models suggest that weather conditions on March 20 are likely to be more intense,” he added. Delhi AQI touches 123 after rain The Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi after the rain was recorded at 123, placing it in the “moderate” category, as per the Central Pollution Control Board. Several locations also fell within this range, including Anand Vihar (176), Dwarka (118), RK Puram (176), Chandni Chowk (118), Bawana (123), and JNU (106). The CPCB explains that the AQI scale runs from 0 to 500 and is divided into six categories, each indicating the level of pollution and its potential health impact. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered “good,” with little to no health risk. Levels between 51 and 100 are categorised as “satisfactory,” where air quality is generally acceptable, though vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions may experience minor discomfort. Also read: Showers bring respite in Delhi; IMD issues yellow alert in the national capital

The nearby areas of the national capital of India, including Noida, Gurugram, and Faridabad, also saw sudden rain and cold showers, bringing respite from the increase in temperature in March.

Delhi logs wettest March in three years; AQI at 123 after rain

With barely a month to go for the April 23rd Tamil Nadu polls, the state's opposition leader and AIADMK Chief Edappadi Palaniswami and his allies are in the national capital New Delhi to decide seat-sharing with the BJP top brass. While the larger NDA alliance between the BJP and the AIADMK was firmed up and formally announced in April 2025, seat-sharing talks continue within the NDA alliance. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, who has been portraying this election as a battle between Team Tamil Nadu (DMK-led alliance) and Team Delhi (BJP-led alliance), has lashed out at the opposition, saying that all their decisions are being made in Delhi.In his letter to party cadre, DMK Chief MK Stalin highlighted the schemes and achievements of their government, and shared the vision for the years ahead. He also stated that the DMK's Manifesto for the 2026 Assembly polls would be released soon. Stalin urged party cadres to publicise the impact of their government's achievements and welfare initiatives among the masses."While we have delivered good governance and many achievements over the last five years, it has not been easy. We had to fight the vengeful, anti-Tamil stance of the Union BJP Government, while fighting for state rights, safeguarding democracy," Stalin said in the letter. He explained that this was why he described the impending Tamil Nadu election as a battle between Team Tamil Nadu and Team Delhi. Citing that the NDA is conducting its seat-sharing talks in Delhi, Stalin said that it shows that all NDA decisions are being made there, which reconfirms that the poll battle is between Tamil Nadu and Delhi.Stalin queried, why are the opposition leader and his allies in Delhi? Is it to reclaim the funds that are due for Tamil Nadu? Is it to demand completion of stalled developmental projects in Tamil Nadu? Is it to protect state rights? Is it to resolve the ongoing LPG cylinder shortage?"The opposition NDA is least bothered about the LPG shortage situation in homes in Tamil Nadu, and despite that, they continue their seat-sharing talks. The people of Tamil Nadu will never permit domination by Delhi and the slaves of Delhi. The people have realised that they will have to suffer every day if the state is under the control of those who need Delhi's consent to even face the election," Stalin attacked the opposition.The public knows that the opposition party will not hesitate to pawn off Tamil Nadu to Delhi, just like how they have done with their own party, Stalin lashed out at the AIADMK. Further, he said that the people of Tamil Nadu realise that the decision taken by the opposition party is the decision taken by Delhi. Stalin expressed confidence that the people of Tamil Nadu are aware that the DMK-led Secular Progressive alliance is the one that can protect the state's rights, while taking it on the path of development. Owing to the hard work of our party cadre, I am sure that we will win the 2026 polls, Stalin said in the letter.&nbsp;

In his letter to party cadre, DMK Chief MK Stalin highlighted the schemes and achievements of their government, and shared the vision for the years ahead.

With barely a month to go for the April 23rd Tamil Nadu polls, the state's opposition leader and AIADMK Chief Edappadi Palaniswami and his allies are in the national capital New Delhi to decide seat-sharing with the BJP top brass. While the larger NDA alliance between the BJP and the AIADMK was firmed up and formally announced in April 2025, seat-sharing talks continue within the NDA alliance. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, who has been portraying this election as a battle between Team Tamil Nadu (DMK-led alliance) and Team Delhi (BJP-led alliance), has lashed out at the opposition, saying that all their decisions are being made in Delhi. In his letter to party cadre, DMK Chief MK Stalin highlighted the schemes and achievements of their government, and shared the vision for the years ahead. He also stated that the DMK's Manifesto for the 2026 Assembly polls would be released soon. Stalin urged party cadres to publicise the impact of their government's achievements and welfare initiatives among the masses. "While we have delivered good governance and many achievements over the last five years, it has not been easy. We had to fight the vengeful, anti-Tamil stance of the Union BJP Government, while fighting for state rights, safeguarding democracy," Stalin said in the letter. He explained that this was why he described the impending Tamil Nadu election as a battle between Team Tamil Nadu and Team Delhi. Citing that the NDA is conducting its seat-sharing talks in Delhi, Stalin said that it shows that all NDA decisions are being made there, which reconfirms that the poll battle is between Tamil Nadu and Delhi. Stalin queried, why are the opposition leader and his allies in Delhi? Is it to reclaim the funds that are due for Tamil Nadu? Is it to demand completion of stalled developmental projects in Tamil Nadu? Is it to protect state rights? Is it to resolve the ongoing LPG cylinder shortage? "The opposition NDA is least bothered about the LPG shortage situation in homes in Tamil Nadu, and despite that, they continue their seat-sharing talks. The people of Tamil Nadu will never permit domination by Delhi and the slaves of Delhi. The people have realised that they will have to suffer every day if the state is under the control of those who need Delhi's consent to even face the election," Stalin attacked the opposition. The public knows that the opposition party will not hesitate to pawn off Tamil Nadu to Delhi, just like how they have done with their own party, Stalin lashed out at the AIADMK. Further, he said that the people of Tamil Nadu realise that the decision taken by the opposition party is the decision taken by Delhi. Stalin expressed confidence that the people of Tamil Nadu are aware that the DMK-led Secular Progressive alliance is the one that can protect the state's rights, while taking it on the path of development. Owing to the hard work of our party cadre, I am sure that we will win the 2026 polls, Stalin said in the letter.

In his letter to party cadre, DMK Chief MK Stalin highlighted the schemes and achievements of their government, and shared the vision for the years ahead.

'Everything is decided in Delhi': Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin hits out at NDA

Written by: Srikumar Bharathi P&nbsp;For much of the recent era, a dominant narrative in international relations discourse has suggested that India lacks a coherent strategic culture. This critique articulated by a certain Western Thinktank posited that Indian strategic thought was largely ad hoc, reactive and defensive. Critics argued that the Indian concept of time, cyclical and infinite, prevented long-term strategic planning. They pointed to the absence of a single, unified "Indian War Doctrine" or historical documents comparable to the military archives of Prussia or the strategies of the colonial empires.However, this criticism suffers from a blind spot, as it judges Indian strategy by foreign templates. This view fails to recognise that Indian strategic culture is not monolithic in the Western sense, rather it is civilisational. It is embedded in the civilisational strength and the ethical codes that have governed statecraft for millennia. The Indian strategy in reality is ever evolving, yet has its roots to sophisticated preference for principled flexibility, strategic restraint and calculated use of force.<h2>Realist Counter: Sun Tzu, Clausewitz, Machiavelli vs Kautilya - Valluvar</h2>The Western and certain Asian ideas of strategy are dominated by Sun Tzu’s deception, Clausewitz’s "war as politics" and Machiavelli’s “ruthlessness”. Indian ways are more aligned with the Arthashastra and strategically profound Thirukkural.While Machiavelli’s The Prince is often cited as the ultimate manual on power, Kautilya’s Arthashastra (300 BCE) precedes it by 1,500 years and offers a far more granular approach to statecraft. Unlike Sun Tzu, who focuses largely on the battlefield, Kautilya focuses on the Mandala (Circle of States), a geopolitical algorithm. Kautilya defines the Saptanga (Seven Limbs of the State), placing the King and Ministers alongside Forts and Treasury. This anticipates modern "Comprehensive National Power" indices.Often obscured as a book of Tamil poetry, the Thirukkural by Thiruvalluvar (300 BCE - 2nd Century CE) contains the Porutpal (Chapters on Wealth/State), which offers a startlingly sharp counter to Clausewitz. Where Clausewitz sees war as an extension of politics, Valluvar sees war as a failure of defence and diplomacy, yet prepares for it meticulously. &nbsp;&nbsp;On Foreign Policy and Alliances: "To discern the enemy’s strength, one's own strength and the strength of one’s allies and then to act - that is strategy" (Kural 471).Importance of Army: “An army which is complete in its components and conquers without fear of wounds is the chief wealth of the king” (Kural 761).Valluvar counters the brute force narratives by emphasising Aran (Fortification). He argues that a fort is not just a wall, but a system of economic sustainability during a siege, a lesson pertinent to modern economic sanctions.<h2>Philosophical Counter: Aristotle, Plato, Socrates vs Mahabharata, Thirukkural</h2>Western political philosophy, rooted in the Hellenistic tradition, seeks the "Ideal" Plato’s Republic imagines a utopia ruled by philosopher-kings, Aristotle categorises constitutions. Indian thought, however, is deeply rooted in the "Real" and the "Contextual".Aristotle seeks a golden mean in virtue. The Mahabharata rejects the binary of Good vs Evil for the complexity of Dharma (Duty). When Arjuna questions the morality of killing kin, he was not offered a platitude about "justice", rather he was offered the treatise on Dharma-Yuddha (Just War).The Mahabharata teaches that non-violence (Ahimsa) is the highest Dharma, but the protection of the innocent requires the capacity for war. This nuance is often missing in Western idealism. Bhishma, on his deathbed, instructs Yudhishthira that a King must be "like a gardener" (nurturing) but also "like a garland maker" (plucking flowers before they wilt), a metaphor for pre-emptive strikes against threats.Valluvar wants a ruler trained in listening, "King who does not have the courage to listen to bitter advice will perish, even without enemies" (Kural 448). This counters the Western authoritarian tendency often found in Platonism. The Thirukkural posits that the legitimacy of the state rests not on divine right or intellectual superiority, but on Sengol (Righteous Sceptre/Good Governance).Way of Life Counter: Confucius vs The Indian TriadConfucianism emphasises hierarchy, ritual and saving face. It seeks order through conformity. The Indian triad Arthashastra, Mahabharata, Thirukkural counters this by emphasising Dharma, which binds even the King.Mahabharata is a lesson in the dangers of gambling with state sovereignty. The 18-day war is a case study in alliance management, psychological warfare and the heavy cost of victory. It teaches a "Way of Life" that accepts volatility rather than the Confucian desire to freeze social structures.Similarly, labelling the Thirukkural as poetry undermines its status as a manual for all - Strategist, King and Householder alike. Unlike Confucius, who separated the rulers from the ruled via complex rituals, Valluvar integrates the domestic and the political. He argues that a state is only as strong as the families within it. This highlights that strategic autonomy is a way of life, requiring the patience to wait for the opportune moment (Kaalam), a distinct counter to the Confucian emphasis on rigid ceremonial action.<h2>Return of the Civilizational State</h2>In the present scenario of a volatile world, marked by shifting alliances, grey-zone warfare and economic weaponisation, the relevance of these Indian treatises is undeniable. India’s modern defence and diplomatic outreach are not mimicking the West; they are aligning towards its civilisational routes. India's refusal to be dragged into binary blocs and maintaining Multi-Alignment is a direct application of the Arthashastra’s strategy, maintaining strategic autonomy while engaging with all sides.The "Strategic Restraint" often mistaken by others is actually Thirukkural’s wisdom of "waiting for the right time" and yet prepared for war. The recent assertive posturing reflects the Mahabharata’s lesson: when everything fails, the display of power (Danda) is the only path to peace. India’s "Vaccine Maitri" and role as a "Net Security Provider" in the Indian Ocean reflect the Dharmic obligation of the state to contribute to universal welfare.Indian strategic culture is very much alive in the living ethos of the civilisation that treats the Mahabharata as the soul, the Arthashastra as a thought and the Thirukkural as a conscience. By recognising the strategic weight of these texts, the world can better understand the rise of India, a stabilising pole in the global order.&nbsp;The author, Srikumar Bharathi P, is an officer in the Indian Army with experience in counter-terrorism and United Nations peacekeeping operations. The officer has authored a book on China and has been a regular contributor of articles on matters of strategy, defence, and geopolitics.

Critics argued that the Indian concept of time, cyclical and infinite, prevented long-term strategic planning. However, this criticism suffers from a blind spot, as it judges Indian strategy by foreign templates. 

Written by: Srikumar Bharathi P For much of the recent era, a dominant narrative in international relations discourse has suggested that India lacks a coherent strategic culture. This critique articulated by a certain Western Thinktank posited that Indian strategic thought was largely ad hoc, reactive and defensive. Critics argued that the Indian concept of time, cyclical and infinite, prevented long-term strategic planning. They pointed to the absence of a single, unified "Indian War Doctrine" or historical documents comparable to the military archives of Prussia or the strategies of the colonial empires. However, this criticism suffers from a blind spot, as it judges Indian strategy by foreign templates. This view fails to recognise that Indian strategic culture is not monolithic in the Western sense, rather it is civilisational. It is embedded in the civilisational strength and the ethical codes that have governed statecraft for millennia. The Indian strategy in reality is ever evolving, yet has its roots to sophisticated preference for principled flexibility, strategic restraint and calculated use of force. Realist Counter: Sun Tzu, Clausewitz, Machiavelli vs Kautilya - Valluvar The Western and certain Asian ideas of strategy are dominated by Sun Tzu’s deception, Clausewitz’s "war as politics" and Machiavelli’s “ruthlessness”. Indian ways are more aligned with the Arthashastra and strategically profound Thirukkural. While Machiavelli’s The Prince is often cited as the ultimate manual on power, Kautilya’s Arthashastra (300 BCE) precedes it by 1,500 years and offers a far more granular approach to statecraft. Unlike Sun Tzu, who focuses largely on the battlefield, Kautilya focuses on the Mandala (Circle of States), a geopolitical algorithm. Kautilya defines the Saptanga (Seven Limbs of the State), placing the King and Ministers alongside Forts and Treasury. This anticipates modern "Comprehensive National Power" indices. Often obscured as a book of Tamil poetry, the Thirukkural by Thiruvalluvar (300 BCE - 2nd Century CE) contains the Porutpal (Chapters on Wealth/State), which offers a startlingly sharp counter to Clausewitz. Where Clausewitz sees war as an extension of politics, Valluvar sees war as a failure of defence and diplomacy, yet prepares for it meticulously. On Foreign Policy and Alliances: "To discern the enemy’s strength, one's own strength and the strength of one’s allies and then to act - that is strategy" (Kural 471). Importance of Army: “An army which is complete in its components and conquers without fear of wounds is the chief wealth of the king” (Kural 761). Valluvar counters the brute force narratives by emphasising Aran (Fortification). He argues that a fort is not just a wall, but a system of economic sustainability during a siege, a lesson pertinent to modern economic sanctions. Philosophical Counter: Aristotle, Plato, Socrates vs Mahabharata, Thirukkural Western political philosophy, rooted in the Hellenistic tradition, seeks the "Ideal" Plato’s Republic imagines a utopia ruled by philosopher-kings, Aristotle categorises constitutions. Indian thought, however, is deeply rooted in the "Real" and the "Contextual". Aristotle seeks a golden mean in virtue. The Mahabharata rejects the binary of Good vs Evil for the complexity of Dharma (Duty). When Arjuna questions the morality of killing kin, he was not offered a platitude about "justice", rather he was offered the treatise on Dharma-Yuddha (Just War). The Mahabharata teaches that non-violence (Ahimsa) is the highest Dharma, but the protection of the innocent requires the capacity for war. This nuance is often missing in Western idealism. Bhishma, on his deathbed, instructs Yudhishthira that a King must be "like a gardener" (nurturing) but also "like a garland maker" (plucking flowers before they wilt), a metaphor for pre-emptive strikes against threats. Valluvar wants a ruler trained in listening, "King who does not have the courage to listen to bitter advice will perish, even without enemies" (Kural 448). This counters the Western authoritarian tendency often found in Platonism. The Thirukkural posits that the legitimacy of the state rests not on divine right or intellectual superiority, but on Sengol (Righteous Sceptre/Good Governance). Way of Life Counter: Confucius vs The Indian Triad Confucianism emphasises hierarchy, ritual and saving face. It seeks order through conformity. The Indian triad Arthashastra, Mahabharata, Thirukkural counters this by emphasising Dharma, which binds even the King. Mahabharata is a lesson in the dangers of gambling with state sovereignty. The 18-day war is a case study in alliance management, psychological warfare and the heavy cost of victory. It teaches a "Way of Life" that accepts volatility rather than the Confucian desire to freeze social structures. Similarly, labelling the Thirukkural as poetry undermines its status as a manual for all - Strategist, King and Householder alike. Unlike Confucius, who separated the rulers from the ruled via complex rituals, Valluvar integrates the domestic and the political. He argues that a state is only as strong as the families within it. This highlights that strategic autonomy is a way of life, requiring the patience to wait for the opportune moment (Kaalam), a distinct counter to the Confucian emphasis on rigid ceremonial action. Return of the Civilizational State In the present scenario of a volatile world, marked by shifting alliances, grey-zone warfare and economic weaponisation, the relevance of these Indian treatises is undeniable. India’s modern defence and diplomatic outreach are not mimicking the West; they are aligning towards its civilisational routes. India's refusal to be dragged into binary blocs and maintaining Multi-Alignment is a direct application of the Arthashastra’s strategy, maintaining strategic autonomy while engaging with all sides. The "Strategic Restraint" often mistaken by others is actually Thirukkural’s wisdom of "waiting for the right time" and yet prepared for war. The recent assertive posturing reflects the Mahabharata’s lesson: when everything fails, the display of power (Danda) is the only path to peace. India’s "Vaccine Maitri" and role as a "Net Security Provider" in the Indian Ocean reflect the Dharmic obligation of the state to contribute to universal welfare. Indian strategic culture is very much alive in the living ethos of the civilisation that treats the Mahabharata as the soul, the Arthashastra as a thought and the Thirukkural as a conscience. By recognising the strategic weight of these texts, the world can better understand the rise of India, a stabilising pole in the global order. The author, Srikumar Bharathi P, is an officer in the Indian Army with experience in counter-terrorism and United Nations peacekeeping operations. The officer has authored a book on China and has been a regular contributor of articles on matters of strategy, defence, and geopolitics.

Critics argued that the Indian concept of time, cyclical and infinite, prevented long-term strategic planning. However, this criticism suffers from a blind spot, as it judges Indian strategy by foreign templates.&nbsp;

Beyond foreign templates: Roots of Indian strategic culture

The weather in Delhi and its adjoining areas like Noida, Gurugram and Faridabad has been cooler and comfortable in the month of March so far. The conditions turned even more comfortable when Delhiites woke up to a spell of light rain on Friday. The Meteorological Department has issued a Yellow alert in the wake of overcast skies.&nbsp;Safdarjung Observatory, the base Observatory for recording data has received 9.4 mm of average rainfall against a normal monthly of 12.6 mm. While Palam recorded 6.2 mm of rain, Lodhi Road 8.2 mm, Ridge 8.6 mm, and Ayanagar 7.2 mm till 8.30 am on Friday.&nbsp;Some other station to have recorded rain were, Pitampura (5.5 mm), Pusa (11.0 mm), Mayur Vihar (3.0 mm).&nbsp;The last time Delhi saw good amounts of rain in the month of March was in 2023 when the city recorded 50.4 mm of rain.&nbsp;On Wednesday too Delhi-NCR saw light rainfall at several places. Continuous rainfall for two days has pulled down the temperature in the capital by large extent.&nbsp;The day temperature on Thursday settled at 26.8°C, which was 4.5 degrees below normal for this time of the month. While Palam saw the temperature dip to settle at 25.3 degrees which is 6.3 degrees below average.&nbsp;

The last time Delhi saw good amounts of rainfall in the month of March was in 2023 when 50.4 mm of rain was recorded by the met department.

The weather in Delhi and its adjoining areas like Noida, Gurugram and Faridabad has been cooler and comfortable in the month of March so far. The conditions turned even more comfortable when Delhiites woke up to a spell of light rain on Friday. The Meteorological Department has issued a Yellow alert in the wake of overcast skies. Safdarjung Observatory, the base Observatory for recording data has received 9.4 mm of average rainfall against a normal monthly of 12.6 mm. While Palam recorded 6.2 mm of rain, Lodhi Road 8.2 mm, Ridge 8.6 mm, and Ayanagar 7.2 mm till 8.30 am on Friday. Some other station to have recorded rain were, Pitampura (5.5 mm), Pusa (11.0 mm), Mayur Vihar (3.0 mm). The last time Delhi saw good amounts of rain in the month of March was in 2023 when the city recorded 50.4 mm of rain. On Wednesday too Delhi-NCR saw light rainfall at several places. Continuous rainfall for two days has pulled down the temperature in the capital by large extent. The day temperature on Thursday settled at 26.8°C, which was 4.5 degrees below normal for this time of the month. While Palam saw the temperature dip to settle at 25.3 degrees which is 6.3 degrees below average.

The last time Delhi saw good amounts of rainfall in the month of March was in 2023 when 50.4 mm of rain was recorded by the met department.

Rain lashes Delhi-NCR, yellow alert sounded by Met department

New Delhi: Canada's top police official has indicated a significant shift in the country's assessment of alleged Indian government involvement in so-called transnational repression, stating that current investigations show no links to any foreign entity, including India. In an exclusive interview with Canada's CTV News, RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme said: “In the files that we have that involve transnational repression, we’re not seeing any connection right now with any foreign entity, based on the criminal information, the investigations that we have presently.”He added, “I’m saying that based on the totality of the files that we have on foreign interference or transnational repression, what we have in our holdings is we have people that are intimidating people, harassing people, but connecting the dots to a foreign entity, regardless of the country, we don’t have that.”The comments mark a notable departure from earlier positions. In 2023, then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced “credible allegations” of potential links between what he termed as "agents" of the Indian government and the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani extremist. The Canadian national was a listed terrorist in India and was shot dead outside a gurdwara in British Columbia in June 2023.The allegations triggered a major diplomatic crisis. India rejected the accusations as baseless. The development led to a near-freeze in relations, including suspended trade talks and reduced diplomatic presence.Under Prime Minister Mark Carney, who succeeded Trudeau in 2025, Ottawa has pursued a pragmatic reset. High commissioners were reinstated, visa services restored, and high-level engagements resumed, including meetings at the G7 and G20 summits. In early 2026, the two countries announced a “renewed strategic partnership,” launching negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement aimed at doubling bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030. They also signed deals on nuclear energy cooperation, including long-term uranium supply arrangements, alongside commitments to collaborate in technology, clean energy, and critical minerals.

RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme said: “In the files that we have that involve transnational repression, we’re not seeing any connection right now with any foreign entity, based on the criminal information, the investigations that we have presently.”

New Delhi: Canada's top police official has indicated a significant shift in the country's assessment of alleged Indian government involvement in so-called transnational repression, stating that current investigations show no links to any foreign entity, including India. In an exclusive interview with Canada's CTV News, RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme said: “In the files that we have that involve transnational repression, we’re not seeing any connection right now with any foreign entity, based on the criminal information, the investigations that we have presently.” He added, “I’m saying that based on the totality of the files that we have on foreign interference or transnational repression, what we have in our holdings is we have people that are intimidating people, harassing people, but connecting the dots to a foreign entity, regardless of the country, we don’t have that.” The comments mark a notable departure from earlier positions. In 2023, then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced “credible allegations” of potential links between what he termed as "agents" of the Indian government and the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani extremist. The Canadian national was a listed terrorist in India and was shot dead outside a gurdwara in British Columbia in June 2023. The allegations triggered a major diplomatic crisis. India rejected the accusations as baseless. The development led to a near-freeze in relations, including suspended trade talks and reduced diplomatic presence. Under Prime Minister Mark Carney, who succeeded Trudeau in 2025, Ottawa has pursued a pragmatic reset. High commissioners were reinstated, visa services restored, and high-level engagements resumed, including meetings at the G7 and G20 summits. In early 2026, the two countries announced a “renewed strategic partnership,” launching negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement aimed at doubling bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030. They also signed deals on nuclear energy cooperation, including long-term uranium supply arrangements, alongside commitments to collaborate in technology, clean energy, and critical minerals.

RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme said: “In the files that we have that involve transnational repression, we’re not seeing any connection right now with any foreign entity, based on the criminal information, the investigations that we have presently.”

RCMP chief: No current evidence links India to transnational repression in Canada

New Delhi: The Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz have become increasingly dangerous for commercial shipping amid escalating regional tensions, according to a recent advisory from India’s Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR). The centre, which monitors maritime security across the Indian Ocean, described the situation as “volatile”. It highlighted a sharp rise in risks to vessels transiting the key chokepoint, through which around a fifth of the world’s oil passes. “Concurrently, GPS interference and spoofing incidents reported across key nodes such as Fujairah approaches are further degrading navigational reliability and situational awareness,” the advisory stated.&nbsp;Recent analysis by the Indian Maritime Centre shows a significant drop in traceable vessel movements, with more ships engaging in “dark transits”, turning off their Automatic Identification System (AIS), or manipulating signals to obscure their positions. This trend has intensified navigational hazards in already congested waters.&nbsp;The advisory also pointed to emerging dangers from debris. In several cases, vessels suffered minimal damage from falling objects, which experts believe originated from intercepted aerial threats rather than direct strikes. “This underscores a widening hazard envelope, where maritime traffic faces risk not only from direct targeting but also from fallout in active air defence zones,” it noted.&nbsp;The cumulative impact is severely affecting global trade. Confidence among shippers has plummeted, war risk premiums have surged, and supply chains for energy and goods are under strain.&nbsp;The IFC-IOR’s latest update reported 25 incidents in the region, with 21 vessels hit and seven lives lost. One Indian-flagged vessel has been targeted, though Indian authorities have stressed no casualties on Indian-flagged ships so far, with monitoring ongoing for Indian crew on foreign vessels.&nbsp;Shipping companies and ships’ masters have been urged to exercise “heightened caution”, maintain AIS discipline where safe, and follow Best Management Practices (BMP) and IFC-IOR advisories closely. The warnings come against a backdrop of widespread electronic interference, with reports of hundreds of vessels affected by GPS jamming and spoofing in recent days, further complicating safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;The Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) said 22 Indian-flagged vessels, carrying 611 Indian seafarers, are currently present west of Hormuz. More than 488 Indian seafarers have been safely repatriated, with 16 in the past 24 hours.

Recent analysis by the Indian Maritime Centre shows a significant drop in traceable vessel movements, with more ships engaging in “dark transits”, turning off their Automatic Identification System (AIS), or manipulating signals to obscure their positions.

New Delhi: The Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz have become increasingly dangerous for commercial shipping amid escalating regional tensions, according to a recent advisory from India’s Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR). The centre, which monitors maritime security across the Indian Ocean, described the situation as “volatile”. It highlighted a sharp rise in risks to vessels transiting the key chokepoint, through which around a fifth of the world’s oil passes. “Concurrently, GPS interference and spoofing incidents reported across key nodes such as Fujairah approaches are further degrading navigational reliability and situational awareness,” the advisory stated. Recent analysis by the Indian Maritime Centre shows a significant drop in traceable vessel movements, with more ships engaging in “dark transits”, turning off their Automatic Identification System (AIS), or manipulating signals to obscure their positions. This trend has intensified navigational hazards in already congested waters. The advisory also pointed to emerging dangers from debris. In several cases, vessels suffered minimal damage from falling objects, which experts believe originated from intercepted aerial threats rather than direct strikes. “This underscores a widening hazard envelope, where maritime traffic faces risk not only from direct targeting but also from fallout in active air defence zones,” it noted. The cumulative impact is severely affecting global trade. Confidence among shippers has plummeted, war risk premiums have surged, and supply chains for energy and goods are under strain. The IFC-IOR’s latest update reported 25 incidents in the region, with 21 vessels hit and seven lives lost. One Indian-flagged vessel has been targeted, though Indian authorities have stressed no casualties on Indian-flagged ships so far, with monitoring ongoing for Indian crew on foreign vessels. Shipping companies and ships’ masters have been urged to exercise “heightened caution”, maintain AIS discipline where safe, and follow Best Management Practices (BMP) and IFC-IOR advisories closely. The warnings come against a backdrop of widespread electronic interference, with reports of hundreds of vessels affected by GPS jamming and spoofing in recent days, further complicating safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. The Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) said 22 Indian-flagged vessels, carrying 611 Indian seafarers, are currently present west of Hormuz. More than 488 Indian seafarers have been safely repatriated, with 16 in the past 24 hours.

Recent analysis by the Indian Maritime Centre shows a significant drop in traceable vessel movements, with more ships engaging in “dark transits”, turning off their Automatic Identification System (AIS), or manipulating signals to obscure their positions.

Strait of Hormuz shipping risks ‘volatile’ as GPS spoofing surges, Indian Navy’s Maritime Centre warns

India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) had arrested six Ukrainian nationals at airports in Delhi and Lucknow after they were flagged through a routine immigration check called the C-form. The C-form is a key part of India's rules for tracking foreign visitors. When a foreigner stays at a hotel or other accommodation, the host, usually the hotel, must fill out and submit this online form to the government within 24 hours of the guest's arrival. It includes basic details like the person's full name, passport number, nationality, visa information, and stay dates.&nbsp;&nbsp;This helps authorities, through offices like the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), keep records of where foreigners are and monitor their movements for security reasons. In this case, the C-form submissions helped Indian officials spot the Ukrainians' presence and link it to suspicious activity. The men were arrested last week on March 13 as they tried to leave India, reportedly heading to a country in Southeast Asia. One US citizen was also detained at Kolkata airport in the same operation.&nbsp;Indian authorities accuse the group of entering the northeastern state of Mizoram, a restricted area that requires special permits, without permission. From there, they allegedly crossed illegally into neighbouring Myanmar. The NIA claims they trained ethnic armed groups in Myanmar on drone warfare, drone operations, assembly, and jamming technology. They face charges under India's strict anti-terror law, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).&nbsp;The accused were remanded to NIA custody until March 27 for further investigation. India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) has said it cannot release details about the arrest of seven foreign nationals as the investigation remains in its early stages. The Ministry of external affairs has declined to comment, pointing the case is in the legal domain current. Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its embassy in New Delhi have strongly protested the arrests. They call the charges "orchestrated and politically motivated" and have asked for consular access to the detainees. In a statement, Ukraine said it "expects" India to handle the case with "transparency, legality, and respect for international law", noting the traditionally "friendly" ties between the two countries.

Immigration's C-form tracking led to arrest of six Ukrainians by Indian authorities 

India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) had arrested six Ukrainian nationals at airports in Delhi and Lucknow after they were flagged through a routine immigration check called the C-form. The C-form is a key part of India's rules for tracking foreign visitors. When a foreigner stays at a hotel or other accommodation, the host, usually the hotel, must fill out and submit this online form to the government within 24 hours of the guest's arrival. It includes basic details like the person's full name, passport number, nationality, visa information, and stay dates. This helps authorities, through offices like the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), keep records of where foreigners are and monitor their movements for security reasons. In this case, the C-form submissions helped Indian officials spot the Ukrainians' presence and link it to suspicious activity. The men were arrested last week on March 13 as they tried to leave India, reportedly heading to a country in Southeast Asia. One US citizen was also detained at Kolkata airport in the same operation. Indian authorities accuse the group of entering the northeastern state of Mizoram, a restricted area that requires special permits, without permission. From there, they allegedly crossed illegally into neighbouring Myanmar. The NIA claims they trained ethnic armed groups in Myanmar on drone warfare, drone operations, assembly, and jamming technology. They face charges under India's strict anti-terror law, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The accused were remanded to NIA custody until March 27 for further investigation. India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) has said it cannot release details about the arrest of seven foreign nationals as the investigation remains in its early stages. The Ministry of external affairs has declined to comment, pointing the case is in the legal domain current. Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its embassy in New Delhi have strongly protested the arrests. They call the charges "orchestrated and politically motivated" and have asked for consular access to the detainees. In a statement, Ukraine said it "expects" India to handle the case with "transparency, legality, and respect for international law", noting the traditionally "friendly" ties between the two countries.

Indian authorities accuse the group of entering the northeastern state of Mizoram, a restricted area that requires special permits, without permission

Immigration's C-form tracking led to arrest of six Ukrainians by Indian authorities

Gold, silver tumble to multi-week lows as West Asia tensions rattle markets. Check rates here

As the war in West Asia rages on for more than three weeks, Israeli firm ICL group (formerly a government firm known as Israel Chemicals Ltd) has announced the opening of a production facility in India that will churn out Water-Soluble Fertilizers (WSF). While India produces large quantities of Nitrogen-based fertilizers (urea), the country imports about 90% of its Water-Soluble Fertilizer needs, as per estimates. WSFs are specialized fertilizers that dissolve completely in water and are applied through irrigation systems or as sprays on leaves, as opposed to conventional fertilizers that are applied on soil.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the firm, their specialty fertilizer production facility is launched in Maharashtra at a critical time, as the world faces fertilizer supply disruptions due to the ongoing geopolitical instability in West Asia and the resultant closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping corridor. Estimates say that a significant quantity of global fertilizer and fertilizer raw material volumes pass through the strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Agriculture is among the diverse list of domains that the Indian and Israeli Governments have been closely cooperating on. This new factory supports the Government of India’s Make-in-India initiative, ICL group said. The manufacturing facility spanning across seven acres (28,000 square meters) will replicate ICL’s advanced production model currently operating in Israel, and will roll out the same high-quality, water-soluble Nitrogen Phosphorous Potassium(NPK) fertilizer products currently exported from their home country.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to ICL, Maharashtra represents the largest market for water-soluble fertilizers in India, making it a natural choice for establishing the manufacturing unit. Further, the location also offers strategic advantages in terms of connectivity and access to key agricultural regions, the company added.&nbsp;&nbsp;"While initial production will scale progressively, we are targeting a capacity of approximately 30,000 tons over the coming years. Our primary focus is serving the rapidly growing agricultural market in India, which remains a key strategic priority for us. At the same time, we are well positioned to leverage export opportunities, particularly for any surplus capacity, allowing us to optimize utilization while expanding our presence in select international markets," Nir Ilani, President of the Growing Solutions Division of ICL told WION.&nbsp; While Ilani did not specify the quantum of investment into the Indian facility, he said that their firm made a "strategic investment with a clear view toward long-term growth". "With geopolitical tensions disrupting global trade routes and delaying fertilizer shipments through a key corridor such as the Strait of Hormuz, building local production capacity is essential. This facility enhances India’s supply resilience and ensures farmers have consistent access to high-quality solutions," he added.

Amid West Asia war disruption, Israeli firm sets up fertilizer manufacturing unit in India

As the war in West Asia rages on for more than three weeks, Israeli firm ICL group (formerly a government firm known as Israel Chemicals Ltd) has announced the opening of a production facility in India that will churn out Water-Soluble Fertilizers (WSF). While India produces large quantities of Nitrogen-based fertilizers (urea), the country imports about 90% of its Water-Soluble Fertilizer needs, as per estimates. WSFs are specialized fertilizers that dissolve completely in water and are applied through irrigation systems or as sprays on leaves, as opposed to conventional fertilizers that are applied on soil. According to the firm, their specialty fertilizer production facility is launched in Maharashtra at a critical time, as the world faces fertilizer supply disruptions due to the ongoing geopolitical instability in West Asia and the resultant closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping corridor. Estimates say that a significant quantity of global fertilizer and fertilizer raw material volumes pass through the strait of Hormuz. Agriculture is among the diverse list of domains that the Indian and Israeli Governments have been closely cooperating on. This new factory supports the Government of India’s Make-in-India initiative, ICL group said. The manufacturing facility spanning across seven acres (28,000 square meters) will replicate ICL’s advanced production model currently operating in Israel, and will roll out the same high-quality, water-soluble Nitrogen Phosphorous Potassium(NPK) fertilizer products currently exported from their home country. According to ICL, Maharashtra represents the largest market for water-soluble fertilizers in India, making it a natural choice for establishing the manufacturing unit. Further, the location also offers strategic advantages in terms of connectivity and access to key agricultural regions, the company added. "While initial production will scale progressively, we are targeting a capacity of approximately 30,000 tons over the coming years. Our primary focus is serving the rapidly growing agricultural market in India, which remains a key strategic priority for us. At the same time, we are well positioned to leverage export opportunities, particularly for any surplus capacity, allowing us to optimize utilization while expanding our presence in select international markets," Nir Ilani, President of the Growing Solutions Division of ICL told WION. While Ilani did not specify the quantum of investment into the Indian facility, he said that their firm made a "strategic investment with a clear view toward long-term growth". "With geopolitical tensions disrupting global trade routes and delaying fertilizer shipments through a key corridor such as the Strait of Hormuz, building local production capacity is essential. This facility enhances India’s supply resilience and ensures farmers have consistent access to high-quality solutions," he added.

As per the firm, their specialty fertilizer production facility is launched in Maharashtra at a time, as the world faces fertilizer supply disruptions due to the ongoing geopolitical instability in West Asia and the resultant closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping corridor

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday that India condemns the attacks on the energy infrastructure sites in the Gulf region and demands an immediate “need to cease” the strikes. Responding to media queries on the attacks targeting energy infrastructure, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “India had previously called for the avoidance of targeting civilian infrastructure, including energy infrastructure, across the region.”“Recent attacks against energy installations in different locations across this region are therefore deeply disturbing and only serve to further destabilise an already uncertain energy scenario for the whole world. Such attacks are unacceptable and need to cease,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-may-impose-toll-and-taxes-on-ships-passing-through-strait-of-hormuz-1773918080590">Iran may impose toll and taxes on ships passing through Strait of Hormuz</a>&nbsp;On the raging conflict in West Asia, which entered its 20th day on Thursday, Jaiswal said, “We’ve called for restraint. We’ve called for de-escalation. We’ve called for dialogue and diplomacy so that there can be an early end to this particular conflict.”&nbsp;Jaiswal said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the Sultan of Oman, the President of France, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, and the Finnish President.“We have been talking to all sides. Global leaders have been engaging with each other. Our Prime Minister has been speaking with them, emphasising how we view the situation, what our priorities are, and how we should move forward.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sensex-tanks-2-500-pts-nifty-ends-down-3-3-at-23-000-rs-12-lakh-crore-wiped-off-1773920912079">Sensex tanks 2,500 pts, Nifty ends down 3.3% at 23,000; Rs 12 lakh crore wiped off</a><h2>‘Pakistan has a history of clandestine nuclear activities’</h2>&nbsp;On being asked about US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard including Pakistan with Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran as the most significant nuclear threats to the United States, Jaiswal said, “As far as Pakistan is concerned, it has a history of clandestine nuclear activities. Such statements once again make it evident what kind of record it has in this regard.”&nbsp;Referring to Pakistan’s strike on Afghanistan that killed about 400 people, the MEA spokesperson said, “We have seen strikes from Pakistan into Afghanistan. We have condemned these strikes because they have targeted civilian infrastructure and caused a lot of misery to people. We once again unequivocally condemn these barbaric strikes from Pakistan into Afghanistan. Obviously, this vitiates the atmosphere in the region. It is not helpful at all.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-major-nuclear-threat-to-us-besides-china-russia-and-n-korea-tulsi-gabbard-tells-senate-1773856393463">‘Pakistan major nuclear threat to US besides China, Russia and North Korea,’ Tulsi Gabbard tells Senate</a><h2>‘We are prioritising LPG domestic consumers first’</h2>&nbsp;On energy supply, the MEA spokesperson said that energy shipping routes have been impacted and the supply of LPG is a matter of concern. “We are prioritising domestic consumption and domestic consumers first. Their needs will be taken care of, and then we will decide how to manage LPG supply to commercial establishments.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-police-arrest-500-spies-for-sharing-information-with-enemies-and-anti-iranian-media-1773607871855">Iranian police arrest 500 ‘spies’ for sharing information with enemies and anti-Iranian media</a>&nbsp;On energy supply requests from neighbouring countries, Jaiswal said, “We have received requests from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and some other countries. India has been supplying diesel to Bangladesh since 2007 through various modes of transportation. We are continuing to assist Bangladesh and our other neighbours even now. This is being done while factoring in our own requirements, refining capacity, and diesel availability.”&nbsp;In his reply to a query on the status of Chabahar project, Jaiswal said, “The US side has given a guidance extending the conditional sanctions waiver for Chabahar port until 26th of April, 2026. The government remains engaged with all concerned in order to address the implications of these developments.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-say-i-m-what-netanyahu-mocks-rumours-of-his-death-posts-video-from-coffee-shop-1773591045235">‘They say I’m what?’ Netanyahu mocks rumours of his death, posts video from coffee shop</a><h2>‘Testing time not just for us, but entire global community’</h2>&nbsp;At an inter-ministerial briefing on the West Asia situation, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the situation has been a testing time not just for the country, but the entire global community. He added, “We continue to remain in touch with concerned countries to ensure our energy security needs are met.”

On US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard including Pakistan with Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran as the most significant nuclear threats to the United States, Jaiswal said Pakistan has a history of clandestine nuclear non-proliferation activities.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday that India condemns the attacks on the energy infrastructure sites in the Gulf region and demands an immediate “need to cease” the strikes. Responding to media queries on the attacks targeting energy infrastructure, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “India had previously called for the avoidance of targeting civilian infrastructure, including energy infrastructure, across the region.” “Recent attacks against energy installations in different locations across this region are therefore deeply disturbing and only serve to further destabilise an already uncertain energy scenario for the whole world. Such attacks are unacceptable and need to cease,” he added. Also Read: Iran may impose toll and taxes on ships passing through Strait of Hormuz On the raging conflict in West Asia, which entered its 20th day on Thursday, Jaiswal said, “We’ve called for restraint. We’ve called for de-escalation. We’ve called for dialogue and diplomacy so that there can be an early end to this particular conflict.” Jaiswal said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the Sultan of Oman, the President of France, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, and the Finnish President. “We have been talking to all sides. Global leaders have been engaging with each other. Our Prime Minister has been speaking with them, emphasising how we view the situation, what our priorities are, and how we should move forward.” Also Read: Sensex tanks 2,500 pts, Nifty ends down 3.3% at 23,000; Rs 12 lakh crore wiped off ‘Pakistan has a history of clandestine nuclear activities’ On being asked about US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard including Pakistan with Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran as the most significant nuclear threats to the United States, Jaiswal said, “As far as Pakistan is concerned, it has a history of clandestine nuclear activities. Such statements once again make it evident what kind of record it has in this regard.” Referring to Pakistan’s strike on Afghanistan that killed about 400 people, the MEA spokesperson said, “We have seen strikes from Pakistan into Afghanistan. We have condemned these strikes because they have targeted civilian infrastructure and caused a lot of misery to people. We once again unequivocally condemn these barbaric strikes from Pakistan into Afghanistan. Obviously, this vitiates the atmosphere in the region. It is not helpful at all.” Also Read: ‘Pakistan major nuclear threat to US besides China, Russia and North Korea,’ Tulsi Gabbard tells Senate ‘We are prioritising LPG domestic consumers first’ On energy supply, the MEA spokesperson said that energy shipping routes have been impacted and the supply of LPG is a matter of concern. “We are prioritising domestic consumption and domestic consumers first. Their needs will be taken care of, and then we will decide how to manage LPG supply to commercial establishments.” Also Read: Iranian police arrest 500 ‘spies’ for sharing information with enemies and anti-Iranian media On energy supply requests from neighbouring countries, Jaiswal said, “We have received requests from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and some other countries. India has been supplying diesel to Bangladesh since 2007 through various modes of transportation. We are continuing to assist Bangladesh and our other neighbours even now. This is being done while factoring in our own requirements, refining capacity, and diesel availability.” In his reply to a query on the status of Chabahar project, Jaiswal said, “The US side has given a guidance extending the conditional sanctions waiver for Chabahar port until 26th of April, 2026. The government remains engaged with all concerned in order to address the implications of these developments.” Also Read: ‘They say I’m what?’ Netanyahu mocks rumours of his death, posts video from coffee shop ‘Testing time not just for us, but entire global community’ At an inter-ministerial briefing on the West Asia situation, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the situation has been a testing time not just for the country, but the entire global community. He added, “We continue to remain in touch with concerned countries to ensure our energy security needs are met.”

On US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard including Pakistan with Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran as the most significant nuclear threats to the United States, Jaiswal said Pakistan has a history of clandestine nuclear proliferation activities.

‘Attacks on Gulf energy infrastructure unacceptable, need to cease,’ says MEA

Raghav Chadha, Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament, introduced a Private Member’s Bill, “The Asset Tokenisation (Regulation) Bill, 2026,” in the Upper House on Friday (March 13, 2026). It was bought with the aim of establishing a clear legal and regulatory framework for tokenised real-world assets in India.&nbsp;The proposed legislation aims to formally bring legal recognition to asset tokenisation and bring greater clarity to the fast-growing digital asset ecosystem. The bill outlines a legal framework governing the issuance, trading, custody, and settlement of tokenised assets linked to real-world holdings.<h3>What is the Asset Tokenisation (Regulation) Bill 2026?</h3>According to Raghav Chadha, the initiative is designed to promote transparency, accountability, and investor protection, while also supporting innovation in the fintech sector. The bill proposes regulatory oversight to ensure market integrity and maintain financial stability in tokenised asset markets.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I introduced a Private Member Bill titled The Asset Tokenisation (Regulation) Bill, 2026 in Parliament. The Bill is a forward-looking framework to bring legal clarity, transparency and investor protection to the emerging ecosystem of tokenised real-world assets in India. Key… <a href="https://t.co/P4NDEAYjtJ">pic.twitter.com/P4NDEAYjtJ</a>&mdash; Raghav Chadha (@raghav_chadha) <a href="https://twitter.com/raghav_chadha/status/2032708378968076412?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Based on the post on X of Raghav Chadha, key features of bill are:</h3>1) It grants legal recognition to asset tokenisation in India.2) Establishing a formal framework for issuance, trading, custody and settlement of tokenised real-world assets.3) Introducing regulatory supervision and oversight of tokenised asset markets.4) Strengthening investor protection and ensuring market integrity.5) Aiming to balance financial stability with innovation in digital finance.&nbsp;Basically, the Asset tokenisation is the process of converting ownership rights of a real-world asset (physical or financial) into digital tokens on a blockchain. These tokens act as digital certificates of ownership that can be easily traded, transferred, and managed in a decentralised ecosystem.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier, Chadha had also pledged to the government to introduce a dedicated Tokenisation Bill, recommending the division of assets such as real estate, infrastructure projects, and intellectual property into digital units, making them available to be purchased in smaller portions.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/alpa-urges-dgca-to-review-pilot-duty-hours-amid-gulf-conflict-flag-safety-concerns-1773920750569">ALPA urges DGCA to review pilot duty hours amid Gulf conflict, flag safety concerns</a>

The initiative is designed to promote transparency, accountability, and investor protection, while also supporting innovation in the fintech sector. The bill proposes regulatory oversight to ensure market integrity and maintain financial stability in tokenised asset markets.

Raghav Chadha, Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament, introduced a Private Member’s Bill, “The Asset Tokenisation (Regulation) Bill, 2026,” in the Upper House on Friday (March 13, 2026). It was bought with the aim of establishing a clear legal and regulatory framework for tokenised real-world assets in India. The proposed legislation aims to formally bring legal recognition to asset tokenisation and bring greater clarity to the fast-growing digital asset ecosystem. The bill outlines a legal framework governing the issuance, trading, custody, and settlement of tokenised assets linked to real-world holdings. What is the Asset Tokenisation (Regulation) Bill 2026? According to Raghav Chadha, the initiative is designed to promote transparency, accountability, and investor protection, while also supporting innovation in the fintech sector. The bill proposes regulatory oversight to ensure market integrity and maintain financial stability in tokenised asset markets.

The initiative is designed to promote transparency, accountability, and investor protection, while also supporting innovation in the fintech sector. The bill proposes regulatory oversight to ensure market integrity and maintain financial stability in tokenised asset markets.

What is Asset Tokenisation (Regulation) Bill 2026? AAP MP Raghav Chadha introduces in parliament

The Gujarat government has announced plans to build a new, expanded hostel at the site of the devastating Air India Flight 171 crash in Ahmedabad, marking a significant step toward recovery and reconstruction months after the tragedy. The crash, which occurred on June 12, 2025, involved a Boeing 787 operated by Air India. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft went down and struck the hostel and canteen complex of B.J. Medical College, leading to widespread destruction and the loss of around 260 lives, including passengers and people on the ground. In response, authorities have decided to demolish the damaged structures and construct a modern hostel facility in their place. The new building is planned to accommodate 292 students—nearly triple the capacity of the previous hostel, which housed about 100 residents.&nbsp; Officials say the design will focus on improved safety standards, better infrastructure, and increased capacity to meet the growing needs of medical students. The total project cost is estimated at Rs 103 crore. Of this, Rs 53 crore will be funded by the Tata Group, which owns Air India, while the remaining amount will be borne by the state government. This joint effort is being seen as both a rebuilding initiative and a gesture of responsibility following the disaster. Government sources indicate that tenders for the project will be issued soon, with construction expected to begin in the coming months. While the primary focus is on restoring student housing, discussions are also ongoing about incorporating a memorial element to honour those who lost their lives.

The crash, which occurred on June 12, 2025, involved a Boeing 787 operated by Air India. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft went down and struck the hostel and canteen complex of B.J. Medical College, leading to widespread destruction and the loss of around 260 lives.

The Gujarat government has announced plans to build a new, expanded hostel at the site of the devastating Air India Flight 171 crash in Ahmedabad, marking a significant step toward recovery and reconstruction months after the tragedy. The crash, which occurred on June 12, 2025, involved a Boeing 787 operated by Air India. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft went down and struck the hostel and canteen complex of B.J. Medical College, leading to widespread destruction and the loss of around 260 lives, including passengers and people on the ground. In response, authorities have decided to demolish the damaged structures and construct a modern hostel facility in their place. The new building is planned to accommodate 292 students—nearly triple the capacity of the previous hostel, which housed about 100 residents. Officials say the design will focus on improved safety standards, better infrastructure, and increased capacity to meet the growing needs of medical students. The total project cost is estimated at Rs 103 crore. Of this, Rs 53 crore will be funded by the Tata Group, which owns Air India, while the remaining amount will be borne by the state government. This joint effort is being seen as both a rebuilding initiative and a gesture of responsibility following the disaster. Government sources indicate that tenders for the project will be issued soon, with construction expected to begin in the coming months. While the primary focus is on restoring student housing, discussions are also ongoing about incorporating a memorial element to honour those who lost their lives.

The crash, which occurred on June 12, 2025, involved a Boeing 787 operated by Air India. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft went down and struck the hostel and canteen complex of B.J. Medical College, leading to widespread destruction and the loss of around 260 lives.

Gujarat to rebuild hostel at AI-171 crash site, capacity to triple

Mumbai: India's financial capital city, Mumbai’s already expensive housing market could see another price surge, with a new report by&nbsp;Anarock Group&nbsp;warning that disruptions in the&nbsp;Strait of Hormuz&nbsp;are likely to drive up construction costs and, in turn, property prices across the city. The report highlights that escalating tensions in the Middle East have impacted global shipping routes, forcing vessels to take longer, costlier detours. This has increased transit time for key construction materials by up to two to three weeks, while freight costs have surged significantly due to higher fuel prices and war-risk insurance premiums.&nbsp;As a result, developers in&nbsp;Mumbai&nbsp;are facing a sharp rise in input costs. Steel prices have reportedly jumped around 20 per cent in recent weeks, while other essential materials such as aluminium, fittings and imported marble have also become more expensive. For high-rise projects, which dominate Mumbai’s skyline, even a marginal increase in material cost can significantly impact overall project budgets.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gurugram-overtakes-mumbai-as-india-s-top-luxury-housing-market-1771839218491">Gurugram overtakes Mumbai as India’s top luxury housing market</a>&nbsp;Anarock notes that these rising costs are unlikely to be absorbed entirely by developers. Instead, they are expected to be passed on to homebuyers, particularly in the premium and luxury housing segments. Areas such as South Mumbai, Worli, Bandra Kurla Complex and Lower Parel—where a large number of high-end projects are currently under construction—could see the sharpest price hikes.The report estimates that property prices in certain segments could rise by at least 5 per cent if the current situation persists. With over 10,000 luxury housing units under development in the city, the impact is expected to be substantial.&nbsp;Additionally, the crisis could also affect demand from Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), who form a significant portion of buyers in Mumbai’s luxury market. &nbsp;

For high-rise projects, which dominate Mumbai’s skyline, even a marginal increase in material cost can significantly impact overall project budgets.

Mumbai: India's financial capital city, Mumbai’s already expensive housing market could see another price surge, with a new report by Anarock Group warning that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz are likely to drive up construction costs and, in turn, property prices across the city. The report highlights that escalating tensions in the Middle East have impacted global shipping routes, forcing vessels to take longer, costlier detours. This has increased transit time for key construction materials by up to two to three weeks, while freight costs have surged significantly due to higher fuel prices and war-risk insurance premiums. As a result, developers in Mumbai are facing a sharp rise in input costs. Steel prices have reportedly jumped around 20 per cent in recent weeks, while other essential materials such as aluminium, fittings and imported marble have also become more expensive. For high-rise projects, which dominate Mumbai’s skyline, even a marginal increase in material cost can significantly impact overall project budgets. Also read: Gurugram overtakes Mumbai as India’s top luxury housing market Anarock notes that these rising costs are unlikely to be absorbed entirely by developers. Instead, they are expected to be passed on to homebuyers, particularly in the premium and luxury housing segments. Areas such as South Mumbai, Worli, Bandra Kurla Complex and Lower Parel—where a large number of high-end projects are currently under construction—could see the sharpest price hikes. The report estimates that property prices in certain segments could rise by at least 5 per cent if the current situation persists. With over 10,000 luxury housing units under development in the city, the impact is expected to be substantial. Additionally, the crisis could also affect demand from Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), who form a significant portion of buyers in Mumbai’s luxury market.

For high-rise projects, which dominate Mumbai’s skyline, even a marginal increase in material cost can significantly impact overall project budgets.

Mumbai Property Rates Likely to Rise Amid Hormuz Shipping Crisis

The Sensex plunged nearly 2,500 points as Indian benchmark indices tumbled over 3% on Thursday and the Nifty 50 closed near the 23,000 mark. The market rout wiped out over Rs 11.5 lakh crore in the market capitalisation of all BSE-listed firms, dragging the total down to a little over Rs 427 lakh crore. The Sensex crashed 2,497 points to end at 74,207, while the Nifty 50 slumped 776 points to settle at 23,002 after briefly dipping below 23,000. Markets snapped a three-day winning streak and posted their sharpest fall in nearly two years. Market analysts claimed that surging crude prices and a hawkish Federal Reserve stance triggered the selloff. Besides, concerns around HDFC Bank also unsettled investors.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-may-impose-toll-and-taxes-on-ships-passing-through-strait-of-hormuz-1773918080590">Iran may impose toll and taxes on ships passing through Strait of Hormuz</a>&nbsp;Crude oil prices surged past $111 per barrel, raising fears of a prolonged disruption, while developments at HDFC Bank added to investor nervousness, even as global cues remained weak after the US Federal Reserve signalled limited room for rate cuts.&nbsp;Higher oil prices can push up inflation, weaken the rupee and hit corporate margins, putting pressure across sectors.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-major-nuclear-threat-to-us-besides-china-russia-and-n-korea-tulsi-gabbard-tells-senate-1773856393463">‘Pakistan major nuclear threat to US besides China, Russia and North Korea,’ Tulsi Gabbard tells Senate</a>&nbsp;Banking stocks led the decline, with HDFC Bank emerging as a key drag on the indices. The stock fell over 5% to around Rs 800 after part-time chairman Atanu Chakraborty resigned, citing “certain happenings and practices” within the bank that were “not in congruence with my personal values and ethics”.Other banking stocks such as Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, and State Bank of India also traded lower, weighing on benchmark indices.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-police-arrest-500-spies-for-sharing-information-with-enemies-and-anti-iranian-media-1773607871855">Iranian police arrest 500 ‘spies’ for sharing information with enemies and anti-Iranian media</a>&nbsp;IT stocks such as Infosys, TCS and Wipro remained under pressure amid weak global cues.Aviation stock IndiGo fell over 3% as rising fuel costs threaten margins, highlighting the immediate impact of higher crude prices. Coal India was among the few stocks showing resilience, supported by higher energy prices.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-they-say-i-m-what-netanyahu-mocks-rumours-of-his-death-posts-video-from-coffee-shop-1773591045235">‘They say I’m what?’ Netanyahu mocks rumours of his death, posts video from coffee shop</a>&nbsp;The US Federal Reserve has kept interest rates unchanged while signalling a cautious stance, keeping global liquidity tight and reducing the appeal of emerging markets.&nbsp;The Indian rupee weakened further, touching a record low of 92.63 against the US dollar.&nbsp;

Banking stocks led the decline, with HDFC Bank emerging as a key drag on the indices. The stock fell over 5% to around Rs 800 after part-time chairman Atanu Chakraborty resigned. Surging crude prices and a hawkish Federal Reserve stance also unsettled the investors.

The Sensex plunged nearly 2,500 points as Indian benchmark indices tumbled over 3% on Thursday and the Nifty 50 closed near the 23,000 mark. The market rout wiped out over Rs 11.5 lakh crore in the market capitalisation of all BSE-listed firms, dragging the total down to a little over Rs 427 lakh crore. The Sensex crashed 2,497 points to end at 74,207, while the Nifty 50 slumped 776 points to settle at 23,002 after briefly dipping below 23,000. Markets snapped a three-day winning streak and posted their sharpest fall in nearly two years. Market analysts claimed that surging crude prices and a hawkish Federal Reserve stance triggered the selloff. Besides, concerns around HDFC Bank also unsettled investors. Also Read: Iran may impose toll and taxes on ships passing through Strait of Hormuz Crude oil prices surged past $111 per barrel, raising fears of a prolonged disruption, while developments at HDFC Bank added to investor nervousness, even as global cues remained weak after the US Federal Reserve signalled limited room for rate cuts. Higher oil prices can push up inflation, weaken the rupee and hit corporate margins, putting pressure across sectors. Also Read: ‘Pakistan major nuclear threat to US besides China, Russia and North Korea,’ Tulsi Gabbard tells Senate Banking stocks led the decline, with HDFC Bank emerging as a key drag on the indices. The stock fell over 5% to around Rs 800 after part-time chairman Atanu Chakraborty resigned, citing “certain happenings and practices” within the bank that were “not in congruence with my personal values and ethics”. Other banking stocks such as Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, and State Bank of India also traded lower, weighing on benchmark indices. Also Read: Iranian police arrest 500 ‘spies’ for sharing information with enemies and anti-Iranian media IT stocks such as Infosys, TCS and Wipro remained under pressure amid weak global cues. Aviation stock IndiGo fell over 3% as rising fuel costs threaten margins, highlighting the immediate impact of higher crude prices. Coal India was among the few stocks showing resilience, supported by higher energy prices. Also Read: ‘They say I’m what?’ Netanyahu mocks rumours of his death, posts video from coffee shop The US Federal Reserve has kept interest rates unchanged while signalling a cautious stance, keeping global liquidity tight and reducing the appeal of emerging markets. The Indian rupee weakened further, touching a record low of 92.63 against the US dollar.

Banking stocks led the decline, with HDFC Bank emerging as a key drag on the indices. The stock fell over 5% to around Rs 800 after part-time chairman Atanu Chakraborty resigned. Surging crude prices and a hawkish Federal Reserve stance also unsettled the investors.

Sensex tanks 2,500 pts, Nifty ends down 3.3% at 23,000; Rs 12 lakh crore wiped off

The Airline Pilots’ Association of India (ALPA) has urged the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to urgently clarify safety protocols and reverse recent relaxations in flight duty norms, citing concerns over crew fatigue, flight safety, and insurance coverage amid the ongoing Gulf conflict. In a letter dated March 18, 2026, ALPA India highlighted risks faced by pilots operating near conflict zones and sought confirmation on whether Indian flight details are being shared with relevant authorities, including Iran, to avoid accidental military incidents. While such measures are believed to exist, the association stressed that formal assurance would boost crew confidence.&nbsp;ALPA also called for clearer communication on existing risk mitigation strategies, stating that transparency would reassure pilots, airline staff, and passengers during these challenging conditions. A key concern raised was the extension of flight duty time limitations (FDTL), especially for long-haul flights on Boeing 787 aircraft. The association noted that pilots are being assigned flights lasting up to 11 hours and 30 minutes with only two crew members, often without adequate rest facilities.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-may-impose-toll-and-taxes-on-ships-passing-through-strait-of-hormuz-1773918080590">Iran may impose toll and taxes on ships passing through Strait of Hormuz</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Airline Pilots&#39; Association of India issues an advisory circular to all pilots operating under Indian Licences over operational risks in Middle East airspace and insurance implications. &quot;We strongly advise all pilots to: Exercise heightened situational awareness when operating… <a href="https://t.co/oFEwlzdFbL">pic.twitter.com/oFEwlzdFbL</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2034589283571662854?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

According to ALPA, such extended duty periods pose serious fatigue risks, potentially affecting flight safety and long-term pilot health. It has urged the DGCA to roll back these relaxations, noting the absence of a clear timeline for the resolution of the conflict. The association also flagged concerns about insurance coverage, asking the DGCA to ensure airlines explicitly confirm that crew and passengers are protected under enhanced policies that override standard war-risk exclusions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-drone-breach-at-us-military-base-housing-rubio-hegseth-1773920697987/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-drone-breach-at-us-military-base-housing-rubio-hegseth-1773920697987/embed</a>&nbsp;Additionally, ALPA emphasised the need to formally recognised the efforts and risks taken by pilots and crew during this period, stating that such acknowledgment would boost morale. The body has also sought assurances from the government and airlines regarding full support for crew members in case of any escalation or incident.&nbsp;ALPA India President Captain Sam Thomas called for a prompt response from the DGCA, saying that clarity on these issues is essential to restoring confidence among aviation professionals. The association reaffirmed its commitment to working with regulators to address emerging challenges in a volatile global aviation environment.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online, and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

ALPA urges DGCA to review pilot duty hours amid Gulf conflict, flag safety concerns

The Airline Pilots’ Association of India (ALPA) has urged the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to urgently clarify safety protocols and reverse recent relaxations in flight duty norms, citing concerns over crew fatigue, flight safety, and insurance coverage amid the ongoing Gulf conflict. In a letter dated March 18, 2026, ALPA India highlighted risks faced by pilots operating near conflict zones and sought confirmation on whether Indian flight details are being shared with relevant authorities, including Iran, to avoid accidental military incidents. While such measures are believed to exist, the association stressed that formal assurance would boost crew confidence. ALPA also called for clearer communication on existing risk mitigation strategies, stating that transparency would reassure pilots, airline staff, and passengers during these challenging conditions. A key concern raised was the extension of flight duty time limitations (FDTL), especially for long-haul flights on Boeing 787 aircraft. The association noted that pilots are being assigned flights lasting up to 11 hours and 30 minutes with only two crew members, often without adequate rest facilities. Also Read: Iran may impose toll and taxes on ships passing through Strait of Hormuz

ALPA urges DGCA to review duty norms, ensure pilot safety, clarify Gulf conflict risks, and confirm insurance coverage amid rising aviation concerns

In a shocking turn of events, a woman packed her father in a gunny bag to take him to a courier office in order to send a parcel out of Bengaluru. The act was done to make a reel for social media, highlighting that "couriering a person" was the only option left for travel when bus tickets are often sold out during the festive season. The whole scene was captured on camera and went viral on social media.&nbsp;The incident came to light on Tuesday when the five members of the family, a woman, her husband, mother-in-law and brother-in-law, visited a courier service's office within the Vyalikaval police station limits carrying a large package. When staff asked what was inside, the family refused to respond. Suspicious, employees opened the parcel and were shocked to discover the woman’s father inside.&nbsp;Citing sources, NDTV confirmed that the man appeared visibly distressed and was unable to breathe properly. The family later claimed the act was staged to create a reel for social media to highlight how bus tickets are often unavailable during the festive season around Ugadi and Ramzan, suggesting that sending a person by courier was the only remaining option.&nbsp;Even after being confronted, the family reportedly argued with the staff, insisting that the package be accepted since they had gone to the trouble of bringing it there. Later, they alerted the cops, leading them to the police station, where they also recorded an apology video and admitted that their actions were irresponsible. Authorities stated that they allowed the family to go after issuing a stringent warning for attempting the same stunts in the future.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We live in a weird weird world. Daughter &amp; family pack father in a gunny bag,take him to a courier office,ask staff to send parcel out of Bengaluru, all this for a reel showing it&#39;s easier to courier a man than get bus &amp; train tickets this festive season. Land in police station. <a href="https://t.co/ROz2SWjFpT">pic.twitter.com/ROz2SWjFpT</a>&mdash; Deepak Bopanna (@dpkBopanna) <a href="https://twitter.com/dpkBopanna/status/2033957424307335385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Netizens react to the shocking incident</h3>After the video surfaced on social media, a user on X said, "When content crosses the line between creativity and common sense, situations like this happen."&nbsp;The next said, "Creativity is great, but stunts like this send the wrong message and can be dangerous."&nbsp;"For the sake of fame, what lows will people go to? Exposing bodies, chasing clout with cheap content, fake controversies, staged drama, clickbait lies, relationship publicity stunts, etc., and now this. Attention has become more important than dignity to some," the next said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/coldplay-kiss-cam-woman-has-ended-all-ties-with-former-boss-he-wasn-t-the-person-1773896386270">Coldplay kiss cam woman has ended all ties with former boss. 'He wasn't the person...'</a>

The incident came to light on Tuesday when the five members of the family, a woman, her husband, mother-in-law and brother-in-law, visited a courier service's office within the Vyalikaval police station limits carrying a large package.

In a shocking turn of events, a woman packed her father in a gunny bag to take him to a courier office in order to send a parcel out of Bengaluru. The act was done to make a reel for social media, highlighting that "couriering a person" was the only option left for travel when bus tickets are often sold out during the festive season. The whole scene was captured on camera and went viral on social media. The incident came to light on Tuesday when the five members of the family, a woman, her husband, mother-in-law and brother-in-law, visited a courier service's office within the Vyalikaval police station limits carrying a large package. When staff asked what was inside, the family refused to respond. Suspicious, employees opened the parcel and were shocked to discover the woman’s father inside. Citing sources, NDTV confirmed that the man appeared visibly distressed and was unable to breathe properly. The family later claimed the act was staged to create a reel for social media to highlight how bus tickets are often unavailable during the festive season around Ugadi and Ramzan, suggesting that sending a person by courier was the only remaining option. Even after being confronted, the family reportedly argued with the staff, insisting that the package be accepted since they had gone to the trouble of bringing it there. Later, they alerted the cops, leading them to the police station, where they also recorded an apology video and admitted that their actions were irresponsible. Authorities stated that they allowed the family to go after issuing a stringent warning for attempting the same stunts in the future.

The incident came to light on Tuesday when the five members of the family, a woman, her husband, mother-in-law and brother-in-law, visited a courier service's office within the Vyalikaval police station limits carrying a large package.

Indian woman tried to 'courier' her father to record reel, and then this happened. But why did she do it? WATCH

As India continues to diversify its crude procurement from sources apart from West Asia, the ripple effect from the war has impacted Indian households. Even as the centre prioritises domestic LPG, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing &amp; Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum &amp; Natural Gas, said the situation remains “concerning”.&nbsp;&nbsp;She highlighted that almost 90% of the country’s LPG imports are from West Asia, and 40% of India’s LNG imports are from Qatar. And now some of our LPG is being sourced from the US. “70% of our crude is coming from outside the Strait of Hormuz.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/50-of-menu-slashed-90-year-old-ambala-restaurant-retreats-to-bhattis-amid-lpg-crisis-1773405763735">50% of menu slashed: 89-year-old Ambala restaurant retreats to 'bhattis' amid LPG cylinder shortage</a>&nbsp;Sharma, in her address, reiterated that there is no “dry out” of stock report from retail outlets and has requested consumers to consider online booking and not make a beeline outside outlets. “Domestic PNG and CNG for transport supply is at 100% without any cuts,” she added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-war-why-iran-is-targeting-uae-bases-but-letting-abu-dhabi-oil-pass-on-friendly-ships-1773726079438">West Asia War: Why Iran is targeting UAE but letting Abu Dhabi oil pass on 'friendly' ships</a>&nbsp;The government is continuing its campaign, urging people to switch to PNG, ensuring companies are giving incentives. "The centre has requested states to give approvals within 24 hours” for PNG transfers for both domestic and commercial consumers.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.&nbsp;

Untitled SummIndia is diversifying its energy basket by sourcing LPG from the US. The Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas confirms this strategic shift to reduce dependency on traditional suppliers and enhance national energy security in 2026.ary

As India continues to diversify its crude procurement from sources apart from West Asia, the ripple effect from the war has impacted Indian households. Even as the centre prioritises domestic LPG, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, said the situation remains “concerning”. She highlighted that almost 90% of the country’s LPG imports are from West Asia, and 40% of India’s LNG imports are from Qatar. And now some of our LPG is being sourced from the US. “70% of our crude is coming from outside the Strait of Hormuz.” Also read: 50% of menu slashed: 89-year-old Ambala restaurant retreats to 'bhattis' amid LPG cylinder shortage Sharma, in her address, reiterated that there is no “dry out” of stock report from retail outlets and has requested consumers to consider online booking and not make a beeline outside outlets. “Domestic PNG and CNG for transport supply is at 100% without any cuts,” she added. Also read: West Asia War: Why Iran is targeting UAE but letting Abu Dhabi oil pass on 'friendly' ships The government is continuing its campaign, urging people to switch to PNG, ensuring companies are giving incentives. "The centre has requested states to give approvals within 24 hours” for PNG transfers for both domestic and commercial consumers. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

India is diversifying its energy basket by sourcing LPG from the US. The Ministry of Petroleum &amp; Natural Gas confirms this strategic shift to reduce dependency on traditional suppliers and enhance national energy security in 2026.

West Asia war | 'Some of India's LPG is coming from US', says government amid Strait of Hormuz blockade

In a touching display of compassion and community outreach, the Indian Army organised a grand Iftar gathering in Pattan during the holy month of Ramadan, bringing together orphaned children and senior Army officials for an evening of warmth and togetherness. The event was attended by General Officer Commanding Kilo Force, Major General Tushar Sharma, along with other senior officers, who spent quality time interacting with the children. The gathering created a festive and inclusive atmosphere, with shared meals and heartfelt conversations marking the occasion.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/srinagar-s-tulip-garden-opens-to-public-with-1-8-million-blooms-tourists-flock-in-1773656030240">Srinagar’s tulip garden opens to public with 1.8 million blooms, tourists flock in</a>&nbsp;Organised with the aim of spreading love and a sense of belonging, the Iftar allowed the children to experience the spirit of Ramadan, centred on empathy, charity, and unity. Army officials encouraged the young attendees to stay hopeful and focused on building a brighter future. Speaking at the event, officials highlighted the significance of social responsibility and compassion, especially during Ramadan, a time that calls for generosity and care for others.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/asia-s-largest-tulip-garden-ready-to-welcome-visitors-from-march-16-1773393465032">Asia’s largest Tulip Garden ready to welcome visitors from March 16</a>&nbsp;The children expressed joy and gratitude for the memorable evening, highlighting how the gesture made them feel valued and supported. Such initiatives underscore the Army’s continued efforts to strengthen ties with local communities, fostering goodwill and mutual respect across the region.

The Indian Army organized a special Iftar for orphaned children in Pattan, Baramulla, fostering community spirit and peace during Ramadan 2026. Read more about this heartwarming outreach initiative in North Kashmir.

In a touching display of compassion and community outreach, the Indian Army organised a grand Iftar gathering in Pattan during the holy month of Ramadan, bringing together orphaned children and senior Army officials for an evening of warmth and togetherness. The event was attended by General Officer Commanding Kilo Force, Major General Tushar Sharma, along with other senior officers, who spent quality time interacting with the children. The gathering created a festive and inclusive atmosphere, with shared meals and heartfelt conversations marking the occasion. Also read: Srinagar’s tulip garden opens to public with 1.8 million blooms, tourists flock in Organised with the aim of spreading love and a sense of belonging, the Iftar allowed the children to experience the spirit of Ramadan, centred on empathy, charity, and unity. Army officials encouraged the young attendees to stay hopeful and focused on building a brighter future. Speaking at the event, officials highlighted the significance of social responsibility and compassion, especially during Ramadan, a time that calls for generosity and care for others. Also read: Asia’s largest Tulip Garden ready to welcome visitors from March 16 The children expressed joy and gratitude for the memorable evening, highlighting how the gesture made them feel valued and supported. Such initiatives underscore the Army’s continued efforts to strengthen ties with local communities, fostering goodwill and mutual respect across the region.

The Indian Army organised a special Iftar for orphaned children in Pattan, Baramulla, fostering community spirit and peace during Ramadan 2026. Read more about this heartwarming outreach initiative in North Kashmir.

Army Hosts Grand Iftar for Orphaned Children in Pattan, Baramulla

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Army Hosts Grand Iftar for Orphaned Children in Pattan, Baramulla