India

A chlorine gas leak at a filtration plant in Thandla, Jhabua district, caused panic among residents and workers on Friday morning. Nearly 49 people were hospitalised with breathing difficulties and irritation, though all are stable.

A mild earthquake struck parts of northern India, including Delhi, Punjab and Haryana, at 9:46 pm on Friday. Residents in Chandigarh and Zirakpur reported strong jolts lasting a few seconds.

India commissioned its third nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine INS Aridaman, strengthening its nuclear triad. The induction enhances strategic strike capability amid evolving security challenges, while also highlighting progress in indigenous defence and underwater nuclear capabilities

Chinese AI models are seeing rapid global adoption, raising concerns in the US over data security, supply chains and economic impact. A report highlights risks including intelligence access, weaker safeguards and growing competition for American firms in global markets

The All India Catholic Union has demanded the complete withdrawal of the FCRA Amendment Bill, alleging it targets minorities and infringes constitutional rights. The body also called for assurances, policy review and stronger action against violence and discrimination

Discrepancies in actor Vijay’s election affidavits for Perambur and Tiruchirappalli East have revealed conflicting details on pending FIRs and bank accounts, potentially inviting legal scrutiny under the Representation of the People Act ahead of the Assembly elections

The Centre has granted deemed-to-be university status to NCERT, allowing it to award its own degrees. The move aims to boost research, innovation and academic programmes, while mandating adherence to UGC norms and participation in national rankings

The AIMPLB has denounced the passage of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill in the Gujarat Assembly, calling it unconstitutional and a violation of minority rights. The Board announced plans to challenge the legislation in the Gujarat High Court, arguing that it imposes majoritarian norms and infringes upon fundamental rights such as religious freedom and personal liberty.

CBSE has announced a new curriculum for 2026-27, introducing the three-language formula from Class 6 and a two-level system for mathematics and science in Class 9, aimed at enhancing multilingual learning and improving conceptual understanding among students

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan hit back at Telangana CM Revanth Reddy over criticism during an election campaign, defending Kerala’s welfare model and governance record while inviting him to visit the state and learn from its development initiatives

The Centre informed Lok Sabha that Ganga water meets bathing standards across monitored locations, with declining pollution levels. It highlighted progress under the Namami Gange Programme, including wastewater treatment, biodiversity conservation, and infrastructure projects to improve river health

Russia has offered to increase crude oil and LNG supplies to India amid global energy disruptions caused by the West Asia crisis. Both countries also discussed expanding trade, investment and strategic cooperation during high-level meetings in New Delhi

Indian Oil Corporation said LPG supply across India remains stable despite global tensions, urging customers to avoid panic booking. The company highlighted steady daily deliveries, increased digital bookings, and strict action against malpractices to ensure smooth distribution nationwide

West Bengal Police arrested the alleged mastermind behind the gherao of seven judicial officers in Malda from Bagdogra airport. The accused, an advocate, was detained while attempting to flee, with multiple cases registered for instigating locals

India commissioned the stealth frigate INS Taragiri in Visakhapatnam, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighting its role in strengthening naval capability, ensuring maritime security, and boosting indigenous shipbuilding as part of the country’s push towards self-reliance

Mamata Banerjee accused AIMIM and ISF of involvement in the gherao of judicial officers in Malda and blamed the BJP and Congress for instigation. She also raised concerns over voter list revisions and alleged misuse of agencies

The Akhil Bharatiya Sant Samiti has moved the Supreme Court seeking intervention in the Sabarimala review case, arguing that courts should not decide essential religious practices. It said faith-based traditions must be protected unless they violate public order, morality or health

The Centre has suspended its directive requiring airlines to offer 60 per cent seats free of charge from April 20, following industry concerns. The policy will remain in abeyance pending review, while existing seat selection rules and charges continue

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has come under criticism for claiming implementation of six guarantees in Telangana, with political observers and opposition questioning the claims, while his recent remarks in Kerala and past statements have also triggered controversies.

A study of 5,000 Indian heart patients reveals that 80 percent classified as low to moderate risk suffered heart attacks, highlighting flaws in Western risk calculators and urging Indians to prioritise lifestyle changes beyond routine diagnostic scores.

Maruti Suzuki added 502 new service touchpoints in FY26, marking its largest expansion and taking the total to 5,926 nationwide. The company plans to scale up to 8,000 touchpoints by FY2030-31 while maintaining steady growth in sales

The Election Commission of India has directed employers to grant paid holidays to voters on polling day in states and UTs headed for Assembly elections and bypolls, warning that violations will attract penalties under the Representation of the People Act.

Senior CPI (Maoist) Politburo member Prashant Bose, alias Kishan Da, died at RIMS in Ranchi after his health deteriorated. The veteran Maoist leader, arrested in 2021 with a ₹1 crore bounty, was considered a key strategist of the insurgent outfit.

The UN praised Indian peacekeepers in South Sudan for reopening the flood-affected Malakal–Renk supply route, enhancing mobility and humanitarian aid. India contributes 1,779 personnel to UNMISS, supporting stability, local communities, and peacetime projects like medical and child protection camps