Month: March 2026

Even as US President Trump signalled a thaw in operations against Iran, saying that Iran had sought a seven-day pause on American strikes targeting its energy infrastructure, but he decided to extend the window to 10 days to April 6, the strikes by the combine US-Israel forces continues.

According to an analysis by think tank, the Institute for the Study of War the combined force has continued to strike Iranian missile forces and launchers as well as missile storage and production facilities.

Strikes targeting the Iranian defence industrial base have been intensified. The think tank says that the combined force likely struck the 7th Artesh Air Force Tactical Airbase in Shiraz, Fars Province.

The combined force reportedly hit the IRGC Ground Forces Ansar ol Hossein Provincial Unit in Hamedan City, Hamedan Province. The IDF also struck an IRGC headquarters around Bonab, East Azerbaijan Province.

Citing satellite imagery from March 15 the think tank said significant damage was inflicted to Iranian naval and air infrastructure at the IRGC 4th Sarallah Naval District in Bushehr Province. The 4th Sarallah Naval District is responsible for controlling the central Persian Gulf, including the South Pars gas field.

On March 25 and 26, the combined force conducted strikes marking the north-eastern-most strikes conducted so far in the war.

Meanwhile, IDF announced on Friday that it killed Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy Commander Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri in Bandar Abbas.

The Iranian side also continued its retaliatory operations. Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) announced the execution of wave 83 of Operation True Promise 4 in the early hours of Friday, targeting key American and Israeli military installations across the region with missiles and drones.

According to a statement from the IRGC’s Public Relations, the strikes targeted a range of strategic assets belonging to American and Israeli forces. Among the targets were storage tanks and the oil depot in Ashdod, a military personnel site in the Modi’in settlement, and a US military information exchange centre in the region. The IRGC also struck American military bases at Al-Dhafra and Al-Udeiri, along with maintenance and storage hangars for transport aircraft and drones at Ali Al-Salem Air Base.

Additional targets include fuel tanks for jets and fighter aircraft of American forces, as well as the maintenance and repair hangar for the Patriot missile system at Sheikh Isa Base. (ANI)

Ayodhya witnessed an overwhelming influx of devotees on the occasion of Ram Navami, as thousands arrived from far-flung regions to participate in the religious rituals with immense enthusiasm.

After taking a holy dip, devotees flocked to prominent temples–including the Ram Temple in Ayodhya–to offer their prayers.

The entire city remained immersed in an atmosphere of deep devotion, resonating with chants of “Jai Shri Ram.” A palpable sense of excitement was evident among the devotees celebrating the birth anniversary of Lord Shri Ram.

The district administration implemented stringent security measures, with police forces deployed strategically across various locations.

“Today, on the occasion of Ram Navami, a tidal wave of faith has swept through Ayodhya; devotees are visible everywhere, and the air echoes with chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’. In light of this, all high-ranking officials of the administration are continuously touring the fairgrounds. They are issuing directives to ensure the smooth functioning of arrangements and are personally supervising operations on the ground,” Rajesh Kumar, the Commissioner of the Ayodhya Division, said.

Rajesh Kumar took stock of the arrangements by visiting various temples and is ensuring that every necessary provision is in place to facilitate the devotees.

Meanwhile, Municipal Commissioner Jayant Kumar stated that despite the massive crowds, arrangements for drinking water, sanitation facilities, and cleanliness are functioning adequately, ensuring that devotees do not face any inconvenience.

Furthermore, the saints of Ayodhya expressed great admiration regarding the “Surya Tilak” (Sun Mark) ceremony, remarking that such a magnificent spectacle cannot be witnessed anywhere else in the world.

Similarly, Iqbal Ansari, highlighting the special preparations made for the occasion, remarked that Ram Navami is not merely a festival of our country but is arguably the finest festival in the entire world; it attracts massive crowds, and it is an occasion that we all eagerly await.

Meanwhile, a saint visiting from Mathura, overcome with emotion while extolling the virtues of Tulsidas, offered a heartfelt tribute to Ram Navami; feeling truly blessed, he took a holy dip in the River Saryu and offered his prayers to Ram Lalla.

Furthermore, on the occasion of Ram Navami, the ninth day of Chaitra Navratri, tailors in Ayodhya are busy preparing the poshak (special attire) for Lord Ram as part of the birth anniversary celebrations.

Speaking to ANI, Bhagwat Prasad Pahadi, a local tailor, said he has received multiple orders of sewing outfits for several temples in the holy city.

“The clothes I am sewing are for the birth anniversary celebrations of Lord Ram. On this occasion, every temple prepares new clothes and special food. We have received orders for outfits from several temples, including Sri Ram Vallabh Kunj, Janki Mahal, Ram Lalla Temple and more. We make outfits for all the major temples in Ayodhya,” he said.

“Our entire family is engaged in the service of Lord Ram and temples. Serving Ram Lalla and the temples is our ancestral duty,” he added.

The nine-day festival, also known as Ram Navratri, concludes on Ram Navami, which marks the birthday of Lord Ram. Throughout the festival, all nine days are devoted to honouring the nine incarnations of the goddess Shakti. The festival is celebrated with great devotion across India, with rituals and prayers honouring the goddess in her various forms. (ANI)

On the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami, the makers of Ranbir Kapoor-starrer ‘Ramayana’ shared an important announcement that left fans extremely excited.

Producer Namit Malhotra took to Instagram and revealed that the next promotional asset of Ramayana will be released on Hanuman Jayanti on April 2. The next glimpse has been titled ‘Rama’.

He wrote, “Shubh Rama Navami. This is a story that belongs to all of us, and every step we take has been guided by a deep sense of responsibility, devotion, and care to bring our very own ramayana to life in its truest spirit and scale with utmost sincerity. We look forward to sharing the next glimpse, ‘Rama’ on 2nd april, on the auspicious occasion of Hanuman Jayanti, as we begin to showcase all these years of our effort through a grand world reveal with fans, celebrating this moment across the world. Thank you for your love, faith, and patience.”

With Ranbir Kapoor stepping into the role of Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as the formidable Ravana, Sunny Deol as the mighty Hanuman, and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman, Ramayana is one of the most awaited films of 2026.

Earlier, during one of the events, director Nitesh Tiwari described the project as a cultural milestone, calling it “more than a film.”He said, “This is more than a film. It is a vision meant to transcend borders while honouring the soul of our culture.”

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios in association with 8-time Oscar-winning DNEG and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, the two-part epic is slated for a worldwide IMAX release, with Part 1 arriving in Diwali 2026 and Part 2 in Diwali 2027. (ANI)

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) said on Thursday that it would reintroduce genetic gender testing to determine eligibility for female events.

The policy explains that, for all disciplines on the sports programme of an IOC event, including the Olympic Games and for both individual and team sports, eligibility for any female category is limited to biological females, according to a release.

Eligibility for the women’s category is to be determined in the first instance by SRY gene screening to detect the absence or presence of the SRY gene.

Based on scientific evidence, the IOC considers that the presence of the SRY gene is fixed throughout life and represents highly accurate evidence that an athlete has experienced male sex development.

Furthermore, the IOC considers that SRY gene screening via saliva, cheek swab or blood sample is unintrusive compared to other possible methods.

Athletes who screen negative for the SRY gene permanently satisfy this policy’s eligibility criteria for competition in the female category. Unless there is reason to believe that a negative reading is in error, this will be a once-in-a-lifetime test.

With the rare exception of athletes with a diagnosis of Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (CAIS) or other rare differences/disorders in sex development (DSDs) who do not benefit from the anabolic and/or performance-enhancing effects of testosterone, no athlete with an SRY-positive screen is eligible for competition in the female category at an IOC event.

Athletes with an SRY-positive screen, including XY transgender and androgen-sensitive XY-DSD athletes, continue to be included in all other classifications for which they qualify. For example, they are eligible for any male category, including a designated male slot within any mixed category, and any open category or sports and events that do not classify athletes by sex.

Speaking about the policy, IOC President Kirsty Coventry said: “As a former athlete, I passionately believe in the rights of all Olympians to take part in fair competition. The policy that we have announced is based on science and has been led by medical experts. At the Olympic Games, even the smallest margins can be the difference between victory and defeat. So, it is absolutely clear that it would not be fair for biological males to compete in the female category. In addition, in some sports it would simply not be safe.”

She continued: “Every athlete must be treated with dignity and respect, and athletes will need to be screened only once in their lifetime. There must be clear education around the process and counselling available, alongside expert medical advice.”

The IOC administration was tasked with drafting a policy on the protection of the female category in an Olympic context that would reflect the findings of the Working Group on the Protection of the Female Category, various IOC consultations, and consideration of recent developments, including in international human rights law.

The policy was developed on the basis that it is universally accepted that providing for a female category is necessary to allow both males and females equal access to elite sport. It was guided by the IOC’s modern goals relating to equality (equal opportunities for female athletes in finals, on podiums and in championships); enhancing Olympic value (featuring both women’s and men’s finals in every sport); and visibility and inspiration (celebrating female athletes on the Olympic podium to inspire and represent women and girls worldwide).

The working group reviewed the latest scientific evidence, including developments since 2021, and reached a clear consensus. Male sex provides a performance advantage in all sports and events that rely on strength, power and endurance. To ensure fairness and to protect safety, particularly in contact sports, eligibility should therefore be based on biological sex. The group also agreed that the most accurate and least intrusive method currently available to verify biological sex is screening for the SRY gene, a segment of DNA typically found on the Y chromosome that initiates male sex development in utero and indicates the presence of testes/testicles.

The policy is the result of an IOC review between September 2024 and March 2026 and included consideration of the IOC’s policy goals for the female category, which are, in addition to ensuring fairness, safety and integrity in elite competition, to promote equality, enhance Olympic value and increase visibility for the female category. For these reasons, the Olympic Movement has a compelling interest in having a sex-based female category.

The review included consultations with a range of experts in relevant fields and lessons learned and feedback from Olympic Movement constituents, including International Federations (IFs) and athletes from around the world, including athletes potentially impacted by any new policy.

As part of the review, in September 2025 the IOC established a working group to specifically examine scientific, medical and legal developments since 2021. The working group members came from all five continents and included specialists in sports science, endocrinology, transgender medicine, sports medicine, women’s health, ethics and law. As a separate part of the working group, International Federation Chief Medical Officers representing individual and team sports were also included.

In addition, athletes provided crucial feedback in three ways: through an online athlete survey that received over 1,100 responses; through in-depth individual interviews with impacted athletes from around the world; and via a presentation to and discussion with members of the IOC Athletes’ Commission. Feedback from the athlete consultation revealed that, although nuances exist across sex and gender, region and athlete status (active/retired), there was a strong consensus that fairness and safety in the female category required clear, science-based eligibility rules, and that protecting the female category is a common priority.

The policy has been developed through an athlete-centred approach that prioritises athletes’ human dignity, physical and psychological health and well-being, and safety. Their right to privacy and confidentiality should be respected. IFs and National Olympic Committees (NOCs) should lead the education of athletes and entourage members, with a particular emphasis on the responsibility of coaches, managers and entourage members to support the athlete’s autonomy, privacy and well-being and to refrain from sharing information beyond authorised channels.

They should ensure access to mental health and safeguarding support, provide clear early guidance on SRY gene screening and, where appropriate, align it with regular sports health checks. They should also maintain safe, accessible channels for information, concerns and reporting, with specific safeguards for minors. This education and guidance should provide reassurance that all athletes have a place in sport according to their age, sex and skill and that biological sex-based eligibility criteria (including SRY gene screening) are not a judgement on, and do not question, the athlete’s legal sex or gender identity.

Who should adopt this policy: This policy should be adopted by IFs and other sports governing bodies, such as NOCs, National Federations and Continental Associations, when exercising their responsibility in implementing eligibility rules in relation to IOC events only.

It replaces all previous IOC statements on this matter, including the Framework on Fairness, Inclusion and Non-discrimination on the Basis of Gender Identity and Sex Variations.

It is important to note that this policy does not apply to any grassroots or recreational sports programmes. (ANI)

The government on Friday slashed excise duties for petrol and diesel bringing them down to Rs 3 per litre of petrol and zero for a litre of diesel. Windfall tax on export of diesel has been set at 21.5 rupees/litre.

The reduction comes amid a global energy crisis due to the US-Israel war on Iran and the consequent Tehran-imposed blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world’s crude oil and gas supply, between 20 and 25 million barrels per day, is shipped.

Before the conflict, India bought 12 to 15 per cent of that oil.

According to the Gazette notification. “In exercise of the powers conferred by section 5A of the Central Excise Act, 1944 (1 of 1944) read with section 147 of Finance Act, 2002 (20 of 2002), the Central Government, being satisfied that it is necessary in the public interest so to do, hereby makes the following further amendments in the notification of the Government of India in the Ministry of Finance (Department of Revenue), No. 05/2019-Central Excise, dated the 6th July, 2019, published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3, Sub-section(i), vide number G.S.R. 488(E), dated the 6th July, 2019, namely; In the said notification, I. in the Table, (i) against Sl. No. 1, in column (4), for the entry, the entry “Rs. 3 per litre” shall be substituted, (ii) against Sl. No. 2, in column (4), for the entry, the entry “Nil” shall be substituted.”

This move brings relief to oil marketing companies who were losing money on the marketing side because cost of crude oil shooting up. Retail prices of Petrol and Diesel remain unchanged as of now.

The Central Government also introduced a new Special Additional Excise Duty on Aviation Turbine Fuel, with exemptions reducing the rate to Rs 29.5 per litre. The changes came into effect from March 26.

Earlier, the Government of India said that fuel supply across the country remains stable and retail fuel outlets are operating normally despite the ongoing developments in West Asia, urging the public not to believe rumours or resort to panic buying.

According to a statement released by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, “All retail outlets are operating normally across the country”, even as there were reports of panic buying in some areas due to rumours.

The ministry clarified that the country has adequate fuel supplies. “There are adequate stocks of petrol and diesel available at all Petrol Pumps in the country,” the statement said, reiterating its advice to citizens “not to believe rumours.”

The government also said that all refineries are operating at high capacity to ensure an uninterrupted energy supply. “All refineries are operating at high capacity, with adequate crude inventories in place,” the ministry said, adding that domestic LPG production from refineries has been increased to support domestic consumption. (ANI)

In a defiant televised address, Hezbollah Secretary-General Sheikh Naim Qassem declared that the Lebanese movement has opted for the “path of confrontation over surrender.” He asserted that its forces are prepared to combat the “US-Israeli project” with a willingness to sacrifice “without limits.”

According to a report by Iran’s state-owned Press TV, the Hezbollah chief framed the current escalation as an existential struggle for Lebanon’s territorial integrity and future.

During the statement released on Wednesday, Qassem argued that the nation is currently at a critical crossroads. He suggested that Lebanon faces two stark realities: “either surrender and relinquish land, dignity, sovereignty, and the future of our generations, or engage in inevitable confrontation and resist the occupation to prevent it from achieving its goals.”

He maintained that the resistance’s proactive stance “denied the Israeli enemy the element of surprise” and effectively “nullified all pretexts” for further incursions.

The Secretary-General went on to laud the perseverance of his fighters, claiming they “have written the most magnificent epics of heroism, honor, patriotism, and dignity.”

As reported by Press TV, Qassem described these combatants as being “ready to sacrifice endlessly,” serving as a “shining symbol of nationalism and the beacon of the coming liberation.”

He also extended this praise to Lebanese civilians who have faced displacement, noting they have “endured as sacrificers and resistors” to ensure an “honorable future for their homeland.”

Central to Qassem’s argument is the alleged existence of a “Greater Israel” expansionist agenda. He warned that this “dangerous US-Israeli project” seeks to extend regional control “from the Euphrates to the Nile, including Lebanon.”

According to the Hezbollah leader, the aggression against Lebanese soil has been continuous since late 2024, with the “Israeli enemy” repeatedly breaching previous “ceasefire agreements.”

To counter this perceived threat, the Hezbollah chief issued an urgent “call for national unity” under the singular objective of “stopping the aggression to liberate the land and its people.”

Press TV noted his insistence that internal political disputes should be sidelined, as “national unity frustrates our enemy from occupying our country” and provides the necessary “solidarity and cooperation” required for future reconstruction efforts.

Addressing domestic policy, Qassem urged the Lebanese government to rescind measures that “criminalize resistance.”

He cautioned that demands for the “exclusivity of weapons” while the nation remains under threat would only facilitate “Lebanon’s demise” and the expansion of the “Greater Israel” plan.

Consequently, he “firmly rejected any negotiations” while active conflict persists, stating that “negotiating with the Israeli enemy under fire constitutes forced surrender.”

Further detailing the regional dimension, Press TV highlighted Qassem’s remarks regarding the Islamic Republic of Iran’s current standoff with Western and Israeli forces.

He described Iran’s resilience as “a lesson for reflection,” asserting that any “victory against America and Israel brings good to all.”

This regional synergy, he argued, reinforces the “defensive battle for Lebanon,” which he views as a “national responsibility for everyone.”

The speech comes as Hezbollah has reportedly “intensified its operations” following the outbreak of wider hostilities on February 28.

By targeting military installations in “northern Israel, including Haifa, Nahariya, and Kiryat Shmona,” the movement claims to have successfully “tied down significant Israeli ground forces,” creating a strategic challenge for the Israeli “home front” while the conflict continues to evolve. (ANI)

The makers of the upcoming film ‘Valmiki Ramayana’ shared the first-look poster, giving film buffs a glimpse of the film’s devotional theme.

The first look poster was shared by the makers on Thursday, on the occasion of Ram Navami.

The image shows the feet of Lord Ram, which hold deep meaning in Indian tradition. The image reflects faith, humility, and the act of seeking blessings before starting a sacred journey.

Along with the poster, the makers shared a caption while introducing the first look to the audience. It read, “As long as mountains stand and rivers flow, the Ramayana will live on.”

Take a look

The film is directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Bhavna Talwar. It brings together a strong team from the industry. Along with Sabu Cyril, cinematographer Binod Pradhan, and sound designer Resul Pookutty are part of the project. Writers Anand Neelakantan and Chandraprakash Dwivedi have also worked on the film to keep the story grounded and authentic.

The first look suggests that the film will present the Ramayana with a focus on faith and cultural values. The makers seem to be aiming to connect with audiences through a simple yet meaningful presentation.

Valmiki Ramayana is scheduled to release in theatres on October 2. (ANI)

The release date for the upcoming film ‘Toaster’ which stars actors RajKummar Rao and Sanya Malhotra has been announced.

The makers announced the release date along with details about the film, which is a dark comedy built around a simple situation that turns chaotic. The story follows what happens when a wedding is called off after gifts have already been exchanged, and one person refuses to forget about a toaster he had given.

‘Toaster’ is set to premiere on Netflix on April 15, 2026.

Directed by Vivek Das Chaudhary, the film also stars Abhishek Banerjee, Archana Puran Singh, Farah Khan, Upendra Limaye, Vinod Rawat, Jitendra Joshi and Seema Pahwa in key roles.

‘Toaster’ also marks the first film produced under Rajkummar Rao and Patralekhaa’s banner, Kampa Film. Patralekhaa shared her experience of stepping into production and spoke about choosing this story for their first project.

Talking about stepping into production, Patralekhaa, as per a release said, “Beginning this journey with Netflix, who have consistently championed distinctive and unconventional stories, makes it even more special. Toaster immediately stood out because it finds humour in the most unexpected places, and the moment we read it, we knew it was a story we wanted to bring to life.”

“Being our very first film makes the experience even more personal for us. Having such a wonderful ensemble come together for this journey has been truly exciting, and we can’t wait for audiences to dive into this entertaining and unpredictable ride,” she added.

Meanwhile, Rao also has a couple of projects lined up. The actor will next be seen in ‘Nikam’, a film based on the life of noted public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam. He will also be seen in ‘Raftaar’ which also stars Keerthy Suresh. Described as a “powerful edge-of-the-seat drama”, is set to arrive in theatres on July 24, 2026. (ANI)

Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy, Alireza Tangsiri, has been killed in a strike in Bandar Abbas, Israeli media reported on Thursday, citing an unnamed Israeli official. There has been no comment from Iran or from the Israeli military on the strike.

Tangsiri was responsible for the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, according to a Times of Israel report.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) carried out a fresh round of military operations today against US military installations across the region in retaliation for earlier airstrikes against infrastructure and civilian facilities in the northern sector of Iran.

On Wednesday, the IRGC and the Iranian Army conducted multiple operations as part of Operation True Promise 4, which was launched immediately after the US-Israeli coalition carried out strikes on Iran. Iranian armed forces have so far carried out 82 waves of missile and drone strikes with advanced weaponry targeting Israeli military facilities as well as US bases and assets scattered across the West Asia region. The Lebanese Hezbollah resistance movement and the Islamic Resistance in Iraq have also joined the front against the external aggressors, inflicting heavy blows on the enemy.

IRGC has also issued a warning to the US-Israel forces on considering a possible ground operation within Iranian territory.

“Don’t send your children to hell with the deceit of Netanyahu and Trump. The invading soldiers will be deeply drowned and disappear in the million-strong sea of the Iranian nation,” the statement warned.

In a direct appeal, the IRGC addressed the American people, warning that they are being misled by warmongers such as Trump and Netanyahu through lies and distortion of battlefield realities.

“The truth of the war you must observe at American gas stations, on the streets of Iran, and in the skies of Tel Aviv and Haifa,” the statement read.

According to a CBS report, the Pentagon is expected to deploy troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East. The news report said, citing a source familiar with the planning, that the Pentagon is planning to send elements of the division, including a command component and some ground forces, to the region. A possible ground operation in the Kharg Island is also being contemplated by the US.

The IRGC further said that precision-guided Emad, Qiam, Khorramshahr-4, and Qadr missiles struck more than 70 locations across Israel in the 81st wave of Operation True Promise 4. IRGC Public Relations Department claimed the missiles successfully hit targets in Haifa, Dimona, Al-Khudriyya near Haifa, and areas north and south of Tel Aviv. (ANI)

After entertaining movie buffs with his performance in Aditya Dhar’s blockbuster ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge,’ Sanjay Dutt will next be seen in the film titled ‘Aakhri Sawal.’

The makers took to Instagram on Thursday to share the first look poster for the film along with an announcement about its release date.

The poster shows Dutt in a serious and intense pose, framed within a large question mark. The artwork features dark tones and fire-like visuals, giving it a powerful and mysterious feel. The tagline on the poster reads, “The Question India Never Stopped Asking,” hinting at the film’s theme.

Take a look

Aakhri Sawal is produced by Nikhil Nanda, Dhanraj Nathwani, and Sanjay Dutt, and is backed by Nikhil Nanda Motion Pictures and Neem Tree Entertainment. Alongside Dutt, the film stars Amit Sadh, Namashi Chakraborty, Sameera Reddy, Tridha Choudhury, and Neetu Chandra.

The film is set to hit cinemas on May 15, 2026.

The announcement comes as Sanjay Dutt is enjoying the success of his recent film ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge, ‘in which he plays Pakistani police officer Chaudhary Aslam. The film, starring Ranveer Singh in the lead, has been storming the box office since its release.

Directed by Aditya Dhar, ‘Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge’ is a sequel to Dhurandhar (2025), the highest-grossing Hindi film of that year. Produced by Jio Studios and B62 Studios, the project features a multi-star cast including Sanjay Dutt, R. Madhavan, Rakesh Bedi, and Arjun Rampal. (ANI)