In a major political development ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, Kamal Haasan's Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) has decided not to contest the polls, citing dissatisfaction over the seat-sharing arrangement with the DMK-led alliance. Despite the disagreement over the number of seats allocated to MNM and the proposal to contest under the DMK’s ‘Rising Sun’ symbol, Haasan’s party has pledged unconditional support to the alliance, leaving an open declaration that they would ba

​Amazon has confirmed its acquisition of Fauna Robotics, a New York-based startup focused on developing approachable humanoid robots for both consumers and businesses, marking a significant expansion of the company’s ambitions in the robotics industry. While financial details of the deal were not disclosed, the move underscores Amazon’s continued investment in automation technology and AI-driven innovation.   In a statement, Amazon said it was encouraged by Fauna Robotics’ vision of creating safe, capable, and user-friendly robots. The company highlighted its own expertise in robotics, along with years of experience in consumer trust through retail and smart devices, as a foundation for developing new solutions aimed at improving everyday life. The acquisition aligns with Amazon’s broader strategy to integrate advanced robotics into both personal and commercial environments. Founded in 2024 by former engineers from major technology firms, Fauna Robotics quickly gained attention with the launch of its flagship humanoid robot, Sprout. Priced at $50,000, the compact, bipedal robot was designed to be accessible to developers while maintaining a human-friendly form factor. The company had already secured early interest from major industry players, signaling strong demand for next-generation robotics platforms. As part of the deal, Fauna’s workforce of approximately 50 employees will join Amazon in New York City. Company leadership expressed optimism about the transition, stating that operating under Amazon would accelerate innovation and expand opportunities in the rapidly evolving robotics market. Amazon has spent more than a decade building its robotics capabilities, particularly in warehouse automation. Its earlier acquisition of Kiva Systems laid the groundwork for Amazon Robotics, which has since become central to its logistics operations. More recently, the company has pursued additional acquisitions to enhance its expertise, including firms focused on last-mile delivery solutions. The acquisition of Fauna Robotics also signals Amazon’s renewed interest in consumer-facing robotics, an area it previously explored with its Astro home robot. By entering the increasingly competitive humanoid robot space, Amazon joins a growing list of technology companies developing advanced AI robots aimed at both industrial and personal use.

A powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake recently struck near Tonga, located at a considerable depth of 238 km beneath the Earth’s surface. While the depth of the quake has reduced the immediate risk of damage or a tsunami, the event is still drawing attention from scientists, as it is part of an unsettling pattern of seismic activity in the region. The epicenter, located over 150 km from the town of Neiafu, lies along the Tonga Trench, one of the most tectonically active areas in the world.

Filmmaker Priyadarshan and his ex-wife Lissy Lakshmi have made headlines once again, not for a marriage, but for a reunion that has taken place ten years after their divorce. The couple, who had been married for 24 years before parting ways in 2016, have now chosen to live together once more. However, Priyadarshan clarified that they have no intentions of remarrying. Instead, their focus is on companionship, friendship, and mutual love—qualities that go beyond a marriage certificate. This e

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reaffirmed that his country will not abandon its nuclear weapons programme, declaring its status as a nuclear-armed state “irreversible” in a strongly worded address delivered to the nation’s legislature. The remarks came shortly after his reappointment as chairman of the State Affairs Commission, consolidating his leadership over the country’s highest decision-making body. According to official reports released on March 24, Kim outlined an intensified strategy to expand North Korea’s nuclear arsenal, framing the move as essential for national security and constitutional responsibility. He stated that Pyongyang would continue to strengthen its nuclear deterrent and advance its capabilities in response to what he described as ongoing threats from hostile forces. The leader emphasized that maintaining and enhancing nuclear readiness was a key priority, ensuring that the country remains prepared to counter strategic challenges. Kim portrayed the development of nuclear weapons as a justified and defensive measure, asserting that the programme aligns with the country’s long-term security goals. He indicated that North Korea would pursue both quantitative and qualitative improvements in its nuclear forces, underscoring a commitment to sustained military advancement amid rising geopolitical tensions in the region. The speech also included sharp criticism of South Korea, which Kim labelled as the “most hostile state.” He warned that any perceived provocation or infringement on North Korea’s sovereignty would be met with a decisive and uncompromising response. The language used signalled a continuation of strained inter-Korean relations, with little indication of near-term diplomatic engagement. Kim’s address covered broader policy areas, including defence, economic priorities, and relations with the United States, though nuclear policy remained the central focus. His remarks highlight an ongoing shift toward a more assertive security posture, raising concerns among regional and global observers about the future trajectory of East Asia’s security environment.

In a significant development that has captured the world's attention, President Donald J. Trump has announced a five-day pause in military actions between the United States and Iran. This decision follows a series of "productive discussions" between both nations, which Trump described as "detailed and constructive." These talks are being viewed as a potential opening for de-escalating tensions in the Middle East, a region that has been marked by ongoing conflict and instability. Tru

Tragedy struck New York's LaGuardia Airport on Sunday night when an Air Canada Express passenger plane collided with a fire truck on the runway, resulting in the deaths of both the pilot and co-pilot. The incident, which took place at approximately 11:38 pm local time, left at least 13 people injured, including two firefighters who were reportedly in stable condition after being rushed to the hospital. The accident has since sparked a full-scale emergency response, with evacuation and rescue

TVK (Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam) general secretary Aadhav Arjuna has apologized to superstar Rajinikanth for his earlier remark regarding the actor's political entry, which led to significant backlash from the actor’s supporters. Arjuna stated that he never intended to belittle Rajinikanth and that his comments had been misunderstood. Speaking at a TVK meeting in Kolathur, Arjuna clarified that his remark, which suggested that the DMK had a hand in blocking Rajinikanth's political e

As Ramadan comes to a close in 2026, Muslims across the globe eagerly await the celebration of Eid ul-Fitr, marking the end of a month of fasting and spiritual reflection. The exact date of Eid, however, depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, making it a topic of great anticipation. Eid ul-Fitr, which marks the beginning of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar, is celebrated based on lunar cycles. This means that the date of Eid can vary from country to country, depending on

India has sharply criticised Pakistan at the United Nations, accusing it of repeatedly fabricating narratives around Islamophobia to target neighbouring countries while diverting attention from its own domestic and regional record. The remarks were made during a session of the UN General Assembly marking the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, where India’s Permanent Representative Parvathaneni Harish delivered a firm and direct response to Pakistan’s allegations. Addressing

Europe’s financial markets are facing a critical moment and must urgently reform to remain competitive in a rapidly shifting global investment landscape, according to the head of the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund. Nicolai Tangen, chief executive of Norges Bank Investment Management, which oversees Norway’s $2 trillion wealth fund, has issued a stark warning that Europe risks falling further behind unless it addresses long-standing structural issues in its capital markets. Speaking

Ugadi, the Hindu New Year festival, will be celebrated on Thursday, March 19, 2026. This auspicious day, falling during the Chaitra month of the Hindu lunar calendar, marks the arrival of the spring season and the beginning of the harvest period. Celebrated with immense enthusiasm and devotion, particularly in Karnataka, Ugadi is a time for renewal, spiritual growth, and emotional well-being. Ugadi Timings (I

Iran on Tuesday claimed responsibility for a missile strike that it said landed near the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, marking a sharp escalation in tensions between the two regional rivals. The claim, reported by state-affiliated media, comes amid heightened hostilities and conflicting narratives surrounding recent military developments between Israel and Iran. Israeli authorities reported that missile fragments fell across parts of Jerusalem, including areas within the Old City, prompting air raid sirens in the capital and several central regions. While debris was said to have landed near prominent religious landmarks, officials confirmed that the Prime Minister’s office did not sustain any damage. Emergency response teams were deployed to assess the impact and ensure public safety in affected zones. According to multiple reports, shrapnel from the strike caused minor damage near significant religious sites, including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and areas close to the Temple Mount. These locations, revered by multiple faiths, heightened concerns over the broader implications of the incident and the risk of further escalation in a sensitive region. The developments follow Israeli claims that Ali Larijani, described as Iran’s national security chief, was killed in a targeted operation. Tehran has not confirmed his death, adding uncertainty to the situation. In a televised statement, Netanyahu asserted that the operation was part of a broader effort to weaken Iran’s leadership structure and encourage internal change. He stated that sustained pressure could create conditions for citizens to determine their own political future. Earlier in the day, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office released images showing Netanyahu inside a military command centre, appearing to oversee ongoing operations. The move was seen as a response to widespread speculation circulating on social media regarding his status, as authorities sought to reinforce confidence and counter misinformation during a period of heightened tension. The exchange of claims and counterclaims underscores the fragile security environment in the region, with both sides maintaining assertive positions as the situation continues to evolve.

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held extensive discussions with foreign ministers from the 27 member states of the European Union during a meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels on Monday. The talks focused on key global developments, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, tensions in West Asia, evolving strategic dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region and the future trajectory of India-EU relations. Jaishankar attended the meeting at the invitation of

Amid the ongoing war between Israel, the United States, and Iran, the Iranian embassy in New Delhi has sought cash donations from Indian citizens to help those affected by the conflict. Due to technical issues preventing successful online transfers to the embassy’s bank account, the embassy advised donors to contribute cash directly at the mission instead. In a post shared on social media, the embassy expressed its gratitude for the overwhelming support from the Indian public but acknowledged the difficulties in receiving donations through regular banking channels. The conflict in West Asia has seen escalating military operations from Israeli and US forces targeting Iranian assets, while Iran has retaliated with strikes across the Gulf region. The Iranian embassy had earlier shared its State Bank of India account details, urging people to transfer funds electronically. However, donors were encouraged to avoid using platforms like GPay, as technical complications arose, and the embassy is working to resolve the issue. India and Iran share deep-rooted historical, cultural, and economic ties that span centuries. These relations are influenced by cooperation in various sectors, including trade and energy. Furthermore, religious connections have played a significant role, with India hosting a large Shia Muslim population, which aligns with Iran’s religious tradition. This cultural connection has often resulted in expressions of solidarity between Indian Shia Muslims and Iran, particularly during times of conflict. In light of these ongoing developments, the Iranian embassy has requested patience from donors while they work towards resolving the technical challenges, ensuring that humanitarian aid can reach those in need

The United States Marine Corps has ordered the deployment of a Marine Expeditionary Unit to the Middle East as tensions in the region continue to escalate. Around 2,200 Marines traveling aboard three US Navy amphibious ships are being redirected toward the area, signaling a reinforcement of American military readiness amid growing concerns over maritime security and regional stability. The unit involved in the deployment is the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, which is normally based in Japan

In a significant move, the Centre has sanctioned ₹341 crore as additional disaster assistancefor Andhra Pradesh.

During the inauguration of Allu Cinemas in Hyderabad, Telangana Chief Minister Revan

Law enforcement agencies across Southeast Michigan have increased patrols around religious institutions and community spaces following a vehicle attack at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield on Thursday. Authorities said the suspect, who drove a truck into the building, died after being confronted by security personnel at the site. Officials confirmed that no students or staff members were injured during the incident. Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard stated that the quick response from on-site security and local authorities helped prevent injuries and ensured the situation was quickly contained. Investigators continue to review the circumstances surrounding the attack while maintaining communication with regional law enforcement partners. In response to the incident, police departments across the region have announced precautionary security measures. The Dearborn Police Department said it will increase patrols around houses of worship and schools throughout the city as a safety measure. Officials emphasized that there is currently no known threat directed at the Dearborn community but said the additional patrols are intended to provide reassurance and maintain public safety. Authorities in other communities, including Ann Arbor and Beverly Hills, also confirmed plans to increase police presence near religious institutions and public gathering places. The move reflects a coordinated regional response aimed at preventing potential threats and ensuring the safety of residents. The University of Michigan Division of Public Safety and Security reported that there is no known threat to its campuses but said officers will increase their presence while continuing to monitor developments in coordination with regional agencies. Officials stressed that the heightened visibility of security personnel is meant to support safety and community confidence. Police in Grosse Pointe Woods also expressed solidarity with the Temple Israel community following the incident. In a statement, the department said it remains committed to protecting everyone who lives, works, and worships in the area while encouraging residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to authorities. The incident comes less than a year after a deadly attack at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, where four people were killed and eight others were injured. Authorities say the recent measures reflect ongoing efforts to strengthen security and ensure the protection of communities across Southeast Michigan.

World Kidney Day is an important global health awareness campaign that highlights