A recent podcast hosted by Nikhil Kamath has drawn widespread attention after former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak shared a candid reflection on his early career choices and family expectations. In a light-hearted moment, Sunak remarked that he may have “disappointed” his parents by not pursuing a care

India has firmly ruled out any role as a mediator in the ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran, with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stating that New Delhi does not engage in diplomatic brokerage. His remarks came during an all-party meeting convened to brief political leaders on the government’s approach to the escalating West Asia crisis and its implications for India’s strategic interests. Addressing concerns raised by opposition leaders, Jaishankar clarified that India’s foreign policy is guided by its national priorities rather than intermediary roles. He noted that attempts by countries such as Pakistan to position themselves as mediators are not new, adding that such efforts have historically aligned with external interests. Government sources emphasized that India has been actively responding to developments in the region and rejected claims that it has remained silent. The meeting also focused on India’s preparedness in ensuring energy security and safeguarding its citizens in the Gulf region. Officials highlighted that maintaining stable crude oil supplies remains a key priority, particularly as tensions threaten critical shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. The government informed leaders that advance procurement measures have been taken and that India is currently sourcing oil and gas from a diversified network of 41 countries to mitigate risks. Participants were also briefed on maritime developments, including the safe passage of several India-bound vessels carrying petroleum products through the Strait of Hormuz, while others remain in the vicinity awaiting clearance. The government described these developments as a reflection of effective coordination and diplomatic engagement. On diplomatic outreach, the government reiterated that India maintains balanced relations with all major stakeholders in the region, including the United States, Iran, and Israel. It also underscored steps taken to convey condolences following recent developments in Iran, indicating continued engagement at the diplomatic level. Despite these assurances, opposition leaders expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s responses and called for a detailed discussion in Parliament. The government, however, maintained that the situation is under control and there is no immediate cause for concern, reiterating its commitment to protecting national interests amid evolving geopolitical challenges.

The Supreme Court of India, in a significant judgment delivered on March 24, 2026, has reaffirmed that individuals who convert to religions other than Hinduism, Sikhism, or Buddhism cannot retain or claim Scheduled Caste status under the law. The ruling reinforces the constitutional framework governing caste-based reservations and legal protections in India. The verdict came in an appeal challenging an earlier decision of the Andhra Pradesh High Court, which had quashed criminal proceedings filed under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The complainant, who was born into a Scheduled Caste but had converted to Christianity and was functioning as a pastor, had alleged caste-based abuse and assault. However, the court held that his conversion disentitled him from invoking protections meant specifically for Scheduled Castes. A bench of the Supreme Court observed that the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950, clearly restricts Scheduled Caste recognition to persons professing Hinduism, Sikhism, or Buddhism. The court described this restriction as categorical, stating that conversion to any other religion results in the immediate and complete loss of Scheduled Caste status, regardless of birth. The court further clarified that a person cannot simultaneously profess a religion outside the specified categories and claim Scheduled Caste identity for statutory benefits. It emphasized that such positions are mutually exclusive within the constitutional scheme, and no statutory protection or reservation can be extended once a person ceases to fall within the legally defined category. In its interpretation, the court also highlighted that the term “profess” implies a public declaration and active practice of a religion. This interpretation played a key role in assessing the individual’s eligibility, particularly in cases where religious identity is visibly demonstrated through roles such as clergy or religious leadership. The judgment is expected to have wide-ranging implications for individuals who convert to religions outside the constitutionally recognised framework while seeking benefits or protections linked to Scheduled Caste status. While the ruling reinforces existing legal provisions, it also brings renewed attention to ongoing debates about caste discrimination and its persistence beyond religious boundaries.

A county judge in Texas has been found guilty on two counts of money laundering, marking a major development in a high-profile campaign finance case. KP George, the first Indian-origin judge in Fort Bend County, was convicted of third-degree felony charges and now faces up to 10 years in prison. He is expected to be removed from office following his sentencing. The case traces back to financial activities between 2019 and 2022, when George was actively raising and managing campaign

Sonia Gandhi, the senior Congress leader, was admitted to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi after feeling unwell, according to sources on March 25, 2026. Both of her children, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, were by her side at the hospital, although Rahul left after a while. The exact cause of her hospitalization has not been clarified yet. This hospitalization follows an earlier instance in January 2026, when Sonia Gandhi was admitted to the same hospital due to respiratory

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, U.S. President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a significant conversation. The two leaders highlighted the necessity of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and accessible for global trade. In a post on social media, Modi mentioned having a "useful exchange" with Trump. He emphasized India’s firm stance on de-escalation and peace, recognizing that the Strait of Hormuz is crucial for global stability due to its role in oil shipm

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday held a detailed telephonic conversation with United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, focusing on the escalating West Asia conflict and its broader implications for global energy security and economic stability. The discussion comes at a critical time when geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region are raising concerns among major economies dependent on stable crude oil supply chains. According to Jaishankar, the conversation add

The central government is preparing to implement the Women’s Reservation Act, a major reform aimed at increasing female representation in Indian politics. According to sources, the rollout may be based on the 2011 census, potentially bypassing delays linked to fresh census and delimitation processes.

India has moved to strengthen its energy security as global tensions rise in West Asia, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirming that the country currently holds a strategic petroleum reserve of 53 lakh metric tonnes. Addressing the Lok Sabha, he also revealed plans to expand this reserve to 65 lakh metric tonnes in the near future.

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam has made a bold political move by deciding to contest the upcoming Puducherry Assembly elections independently. The party, led by actor-turned-politician Vijay, has officially announced candidates for all 30 constituencies, signaling its intent to emerge as a strong alternative in the region’s political landscape. The elections are scheduled to take place on April 9, with counting of votes set for May 4. The current Assembly term will end on June 15, makin

India has dispatched a 2.5-ton consignment of emergency medicines, medical disposables, kits, and equipment to Afghanistan to assist victims of a devastating airstrike in Kabul that claimed more than 400 lives and left over 250 injured. The humanitarian aid was delivered on March 20 as part of India’s continued support for the Afghan people during a period of crisis. According to officials, the supplies are intended to support the treatment and recovery of those affected by the March 16 attack on a drug addiction treatment facility in Kabul. The strike targeted the Omid Drug Addiction Treatment Hospital, which Afghan authorities described as housing one of the most vulnerable sections of society. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation due to the high number of civilian casualties. India strongly criticized the airstrike, calling it a barbaric and unjustifiable act of violence against civilians. In an official statement, New Delhi emphasized that a medical facility cannot be considered a legitimate military target and reaffirmed its solidarity with Afghanistan. The government reiterated its commitment to providing humanitarian assistance and helping address the immediate needs arising from the crisis. Afghanistan confirmed that over 408 individuals undergoing treatment at the facility were killed, while more than 265 sustained injuries. The scale of the casualties has intensified regional tensions and raised concerns about escalating conflict in South Asia. Afghan leaders have condemned the attack and indicated that while diplomatic efforts remain a priority, a response to the incident is under consideration. Amid rising tensions, Pakistan and Afghanistan have announced a temporary ceasefire following mediation efforts by international partners. The pause in hostilities coincides with the Eid al-Fitr period, although officials have warned that military operations could resume if security conditions deteriorate. Both sides continue to exchange accusations regarding cross-border militancy, further complicating the fragile situation in the region.

In an important development in Tamil Nadu’s political landscape, the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has allotted five seats to its ally, the Communist Party of India (CPI), for the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. This seat allocation comes after several rounds of talks between the two parties, reflecting their continued collaboration and alliance ahead of the crucial polls. The decision was finalized following discussions held at the DMK headquarters, Anna Ari

In the midst of the ongoing war, Iran has continued to export millions of barrels of oil, with about 90 ships, including oil tankers, crossing the critical Strait of Hormuz between March 1 and 15, 2026. Despite the waterway being effectively "closed" to most traffic due to the conflict, Iran has managed to keep its oil exports flowing, benefitting from its control over this vital chokepoint. According to maritime traffic data from Lloyd's List Intelligence, Iran has relied on a mix

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

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation on Tuesday with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, as tensions continue to escalate across the West Asian region. The discussion focused on regional stability, recent developments in the Middle East crisis, and the importance of safeguarding critical global energy routes. During the call, both leaders underscored the need to ensure safe and uninterrupted navigation through the Strait of

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

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

Incidents involving Indian students going missing in the United States have raised growing concern in recent months, with several tragic cases reported across different states. In the latest development, a 17-year-old Indian-origin student, Gautam Raja Rajanikanth, was found dead in Pennsylvania after being reported missing over the weekend, prompting an ongoing investigation by local authorities. Gautam, who was pursuing his 11th grade education in Pittsburgh’s South Fayette area, was last seen on Saturday. According to preliminary information, he became unreachable shortly thereafter, leading his family to file a missing person complaint with the South Fayette Police Department. Authorities initiated a search operation soon after receiving the report, focusing on locating the teenager and determining his whereabouts. Following an extensive search effort, officials confirmed that Gautam’s body was recovered on Monday. While the discovery has brought some closure to the search, the exact circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear. Police have not yet disclosed the cause of death and stated that the investigation is ongoing, with further details expected pending official findings. The sudden loss has deeply affected Gautam’s family, friends, and the wider Indian diaspora community. The case has once again highlighted concerns regarding the safety and well-being of international students in the United States, especially amid a series of similar incidents reported in recent times. Authorities have urged the public to refrain from speculation as the investigation continues. More information is expected to be released as officials complete their inquiries into the tragic incident.

The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured all five Rajya Sabha seats in

Canadian colleges and polytechnics are intensifying efforts to strengthen skills training and education partnerships with India as both countries seek to deepen collaboration in workforce development and higher education. A delegation of college and polytechnic presidents, organized by Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan), began a five-day visit to India on March 16, 2026, with scheduled engagements in New Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai. CICan represents 127 public colleges and institutes ac