Month: April 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi completed his self-enumeration today, marking the beginning of the first phase of Census 2027, relating to house listing and housing operations, the release said.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), PM Modi said that this census is the first time data collection is being done through digital means. It also empowers the people of India to self-enumerate their household details.

PM Modi appealed to the people of India to self-enumerate their household details themselves and participate in the Census process.

In a post on X, PM Modi wrote,”Completed my self-enumeration, today marks the beginning of the first phase of Census 2027, relating to house listing and housing operations. This census is the first time data collection is being done through digital means. It also empowers the people of India to self-enumerate their household details. I appeal to the people of India to self-enumerate their household details themselves and participate in the Census process.”

The first phase of Census 2027 will begin today in what will be the largest such exercise in the world and it will be conducted digitally for the first time.

It is India’s 16th Census and eighth after Independence. For the first time, the option of self-enumeration will also be available.

The reference date of Census 2027 is 00:00 hours of March 1, 2027, (for UT of Ladakh and snow-bound non-synchronous areas of UT of Jammu and Kashmir and States of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh reference date is 00:00 hours of 1st October, 2026).

Census 2027 will be conducted in two phases – Phase I-House Listing and Housing Census, popularly known as HLO, during six months from April to September, 2026, in a period of 30 days as per the convenience of the State/UT governments, along with option of self-enumeration for a 15-day period just before the 30 days period of house-to-house houselisting work. (ANI)

A survey by agency Lok Poll has projected that the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) aliiance led by incumbent CM MK Stalin will retain power in Tamil Nadu securing 181-189 seats with a 40.1 per cent vote share in the forthcoming Assembly elections.

Sharing the findings on X, Lok Poll wrote: “The most wanted Tamil Nadu Survey is Out. Here’s the vote share & seat projection from our mega ground survey: DMK+ — 181-189 | 40.1%, ADMK+ — 38-42 | 29%, TVK — 8-10 | 23.9%, NTK — 00 | 4.9%, Others — 00 | 2.1%.”

The survey indicates a strong lead for DMK and its allies, while the AIADMK and its coalition are projected to win between 38 and 42 seats, capturing 29% of the vote share. Other regional players, including TVK, are estimated to secure 8-10 seats with 23.9% support. NTK and other parties are unlikely to make a significant impact, with projected vote shares of 4.9% and 2.1%, respectively.

This survey comes ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, reflecting voter sentiment across key constituencies in the state.

Meanwhile, on Wednesdayy, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president MK Stalin, who is contesting the upcoming Assembly elections from the Kolathur constituency, held a major election campaign in Tiruchirappalli district on Wednesday, addressing a large public gathering and introducing party candidates for the nine Assembly segments in the district.

Addressing the party rally in Tiruchirappalli, Stalin drew contrasts with other states, asserting, “There are no caste clashes in Tamil Nadu, no communal riots like in BJP-ruled states, no mob violence like in Uttar Pradesh, and no continuous unrest like in Manipur. We have also thwarted the conspiracies of the BJP to create such situations here. It is because of the peaceful environment and effective governance under our rule that investments are steadily flowing into Tamil Nadu. We have released a detailed action plan and election manifesto to support this. All the announcements I have made will be fulfilled in the coming days.”

Stalin also claimed, “Tamil Nadu has no caste or communal violence like other states. We ensured peace, which is why investments are coming. We have released our plans, and all promises will be fulfilled soon.”

The Tamil Nadu Assembly elections are scheduled to be held on April 23, 2026, to elect all 234 members, with counting of votes set for May 4. (ANI)

The Agriculture Ministry on Wednesday assured that the country’s agriculture sector and farmers will not be affected due to the West Asia Conflict, as the availability of seeds and fertiliser stocks is healthy for the upcoming Kharif season.

The Ministry of Agriculture said that the seed availability for the Kharif season is in surplus of 19.29 lakhs, compared to the estimated 166.46 lakh quintals.

Addressing a press briefing, Additional Secretary of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Maninder Kaur Dwivedi said, “In light of the international situation, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has conducted a comprehensive review and has made preparations regarding all necessary input materials for the upcoming Kharif season… An adequate quantity of seeds is available, as confirmed through assessments conducted in coordination with the states. For this Kharif season, the total seed requirement is estimated to be 166.46 lakh quintals. We have 185.74 lakh quintals.”

Seed availability of all major crops, such as Paddy, Soybean, Groundnut, Maize and Pulses are also in a surplus position.

Maninder Kaur Dwivedi also reflected that the government has faced issue on the availability of LPG to dry out the hybrid maize seeds. However, this issue has been resolved with the coordination with the Ministry of Petroleum.

“The only minor hurdle encountered in this regard was the requirement for LPG during the past month to facilitate the drying of hybrid maize seeds; however, through coordination with the Ministry of Petroleum, adequate supplies were made available,” she said.

She also added that the government is in a comfortable position when it comes to Rabi crop seeds availability as well.

Additional Secretary Maninder Kaur Dwivedi further outlined the fertiliser requirements of the Kharif crops, which she said is 390.52 LMT. She added that around 46 per cent, 180 LMT, is available as opening stock.

“This is a fairly good amount available, as by thumb rule the opening stock is about one third of the requirement,” she added.

Speaking about Agrochemicals, Maninder Kaur Dwivedi said that over 2,5 lakh MT of Pesticides are available, which is way more than the required availability.

“The states have also been asked to encourage bio-pesticides and other sustainable methods, though we are in a comfortable position,” she said

The Ministry is also monitored for the wholesale prices for all agro commodities, which they assured will remain stable.

“By and large, Prices are within the normal range as they have been in the past few years. The prices of the top crops, tomato, onion, and potato, are in the range and are showing an improvement, with an improving trend at the wholesale level,” Maninder Kaur Dwivedi said.

The latest revision of the availability of stocks comes against the backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia, involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which has led to a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global transit route for crude oil and energy supplies. (ANI)

A star-studded sporting spectacle unfolded in Thane as Bollywood actor Salman Khan joined Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to inaugurate the President Cup India 2026, a national-level tennis cricket tournament.

The grand opening ceremony took place on March 31 at Dadoji Konddev Stadium.

The duo officially launched the tournament by unveiling the trophy on stage, marking the beginning of the 16-team competition. The event also saw the presence of political leaders Pratap Sarnaik and Shrikant Shinde.

Salman Khan, dressed in a brown shirt paired with black trousers, kept his look understated as he arrived at the venue. He later joined Shinde for the ceremonial moment, posing with the trophy amid loud cheers from the audience.

The President Cup aims to bring together teams from across the country, providing a platform for emerging cricket talent in the tennis ball format.

In a post shared on Instagram, Shinde emphasised the importance of such sporting initiatives, stating that they provide a valuable platform for players and help promote tennis cricket at a national level.

He also welcomed participating teams to Thane on behalf of the city’s residents, noting the enthusiastic turnout at the stadium, which was filled with sports lovers during the launch event.

The Deputy Chief Minister highlighted that the tournament would be held three times a year across different states, signalling a broader vision to expand the reach of tennis cricket in India. He also acknowledged the efforts of organisers, including Shrikant Shinde, along with their team, for successfully executing the event.

Shinde also referenced the legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray and Anand Dighe in the development of the stadium, calling it a matter of pride for Thane. He added that Rs 55 crore has been allocated so far for the venue’s development.

On the film front, Salman Khan is currently gearing up for the release of his upcoming project ‘Maatrubhumi.’ Produced under Salman Khan Films and directed by Apoorva Lakhia, the film features the actor in the role of an Indian Army colonel.

The film is scheduled to be released in cinemas on April 17, 2026.

In addition, Salman has confirmed his next film, an action drama to be directed by Vamshi Paidipally and produced by Dil Raju. The project will also star Nayanthara in the lead role. (ANI)

A strong box office run and widespread industry acclaim have positioned ‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ as one of the biggest cinematic successes of 2026, with the film crossing the Rs 800 crore mark within just two weeks of its release on March 19.

Directed by Aditya Dhar, the action drama has garnered praise from audiences, politicians, and film personalities alike.

The film stars Ranveer Singh in the lead role, alongside an ensemble cast including Arjun Rampal, R. Madhavan, Sanjay Dutt, and Rakesh Bedi. Actress Yami Gautam also appears in a cameo.

Adding to the chorus of appreciation, global star Priyanka Chopra took to social media to commend the film and its cast.

Referring to Ranveer Singh as her friend, she congratulated him and the team for their work. In her post, she wrote, “Congratulations mere dost @ranveersingh… Aditya, you’re a man with a mission. Dhurandhar in every way is a revelation. Thank you all for your artistry.”

The film, a sequel to last year’s ‘Dhurandhar’, has shown remarkable performance at the box office.

According to trade analyst Taran Adarsh, the film crossed Rs 800 crore by the end of its second weekend.

‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ marks Aditya Dhar’s second directorial venture after his National Award-winning debut ‘Uri: The Surgical Strike’, which starred Vicky Kaushal.

The film’s music, including the track ‘Aari Aari’ composed by Shashwat Sachdev in collaboration with Bombay Rockers, has also contributed to its popularity among audiences.

Meanwhile, Priyanka Chopra, who was last seen in ‘The Bluff’, is gearing up for her upcoming project ‘Varanasi,’ directed by S. S. Rajamouli, which is expected to release in 2027. (ANI)

Karachi is once again grappling with a serious water crisis after a major breakdown at the Dhabeji Pumping Station caused a critical supply line to rupture, intensifying concerns over the city’s fragile infrastructure.

The incident led to the loss of millions of gallons of water and disrupted supply across several key areas, as reported by The Express Tribune.

According to The Express Tribune, the officials stated that the disruption occurred late Sunday night when an unexpected power outage forced the shutdown of multiple pumps at the K-III Pump House and Phase-II system. The sudden halt created extreme pressure fluctuations within the pipeline network, ultimately causing the 72-inch main line to burst.

Large volumes of water were spilt into nearby areas before authorities could bring the situation under control. Emergency repair operations were launched immediately, with technical teams working continuously to fix the damaged infrastructure. However, officials expressed deep concern over recurring power failures at the Dhabeji facility, calling them a major threat to Karachi’s already overburdened water supply system. They urged K-Electric to ensure a stable power supply, warning that continued disruptions could worsen the crisis.

The breakdown has impacted several densely populated localities, including Korangi, Landhi, Malir, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, and parts of District Central. Residents in these areas are expected to face severe shortages for at least 24 to 48 hours. Authorities have advised citizens to conserve water and prepare for delays, while tanker demand is anticipated to rise sharply, as highlighted by The Express Tribune.

Sources within the Water Corporation indicated that while repair work may be completed within a day, restoring normal supply will take additional time due to the need for gradual pressure stabilisation. Partial restoration could begin at night, provided no further complications arise, as reported by The Express Tribune. (ANI)

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Wednesday said that the war in the Middle East was not theirs, and they will not be drawn into the conflict. Starmer in his address said that the war will affect them, but the UK has a plan to emerge as a more secure nation.

“Impact of war will affect us, but we have a plan to emerge from it as a more secure nation. It is not our war and we will not be drawn into conflict. We want de-escalation and opening of Strait of Hormuz,” he said.

“UK has brought 35 nations around statement of intent to push for maritime security around gulf. We will host meeting of these nations. We will meet military planners to assess how strati can be made secure. This will not be easy,” he said.

Starmer further said that the real challenge was security of passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

“Challenge is not of insurance but of safety and security of passage. we need a united front. above all clear and calm leadership which this country is ready for. my guide is British national interest. This is causing concern… People worry… They feel it will affect their family and they worry about energy bills… It is government’s job to meet these concerns,” he said.

The address comes as amid deepening global energy turmoil linked to the ongoing war in Iran and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which is a vital chokepoint through which a significant proportion of the world’s oil supply normally flows, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday issued a stark message to countries struggling with jet fuel shortages, particularly targeting traditional US allies such as the United Kingdom and France.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “All of those countries that can’t get jet fuel because of the Strait of Hormuz, like the United Kingdom, which refused to get involved in the decapitation of Iran, I have a suggestion for you: Number 1, buy from the U.S., we have plenty, and Number 2, build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT. You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself; the U.S.A. won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us. Iran has been, essentially, decimated. The hard part is done. Go get your own oil! President DJT.” (ANI)

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Wednesday (local time) has warned that the ongoing Iran conflict will “affect the future of our country,” while insisting that Britain is prepared to endure the economic fallout, saying, “no matter how fierce this storm, we are well-placed to weather it.”

The British Prime Minister also reiterated that “this is not our war” and that the UK will not be drawn into it because “that is not in our national interest”.

Addressing concerns over rising living costs, Starmer said, “The most effective way we can support the cost of living in Britain is to push for de-escalation in the Middle East, and a reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which is such a vital route for energy.”

He stressed ongoing diplomatic efforts, stating, “To that end, we’re exploring each and every diplomatic avenue that is available to us.”

Starmer announced that Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper will convene international partners, saying, “And today I can announce that later this week, the foreign secretary will host a meeting that brings those nations together for the first time, where we will assess all viable diplomatic and political measures that we can take to restore freedom of navigation, guarantee the safety of trapped ships and seafarers, and resume the movement of vital commodities.”

He added that the UK has already coordinated widely, noting, “The foreign secretary and the chancellor have met their counterparts in the G7. The defence secretary has been in the Middle East speaking to our partners, and the UK has now brought together 35 nations around our statement of intent to push as one for maritime security across the Gulf.”

Highlighting domestic measures, Starmer said, “Just look at what’s happening today. Today, your energy bills will be cut because of the action that we took in the budget. And whatever happens in Iran, that price is now fixed until July.”

The remarks come as tensions in the region continue to raise concerns over global energy supplies, particularly through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

Earlier, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, in his address to the nation, said that the months ahead might not be easy.

Albanese said that on Monday, the National Cabinet adopted the National Fuel Security Plan, which would help Australians in case supplies are seriously disrupted over the long term.

“The months ahead may not be easy. I want to be upfront about that. No government can promise to eliminate the pressures that this war is causing. I can promise we will do everything we can to protect Australia from the worst of it. These are uncertain times, but I’m absolutely certain of this. We will deal with these global challenges the Australian way, working together and looking after each other, as we always have,” he said. (ANI)

Opposition MPs on Wednesday protested at the Makar Dwar of Parliament, demanding the withdrawal of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026.

Congress MP Hibi Eden called it a “draconian law” that could affect minorities and NGOs across the country.

Speaking to ANI, Eden said, “It is a draconian law which will hamper the interests of not just the minorities but many NGOs running in India…We will strongly condemn and object, and demand withdrawal of this bill.”

Congress MP Dharamvir Gandhi said,”…We are against it. It should be an impartial decision which benefits all sections of society; it cannot be selective.”

Revolutionary Socialist Party MP NK Premchandran said, “It is not the question of Christian or any particular community. It is a planned agenda on the part of the BJP to take away the privileges and rights of the minorities…”

The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, has been listed for consideration and passage in the Lok Sabha today, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah set to move that the Bill, which seeks further amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010, be taken up for discussion.

The FCRA Bill, 2026, was introduced in Lok Sabha on March 25 and seeks to amend the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010, and is aimed at enhancing the transparency and accountability of foreign contributions in India.

Further, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is slated to move a statutory resolution approving Notification No. 07/2026-Central Excise, which imposes a Special Additional Excise Duty of Rs 50 per litre on Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF).

The decision comes in the backdrop of rising global crude oil prices and escalating operational costs in the aviation sector.

The House will begin proceedings at 11 AM, starting with question hour followed by the laying of papers by ministers, including Jitendra Singh (Science & Technology) and Ravneet Singh (Railways).

The House will also take up reports and statements of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) for the fiscal year 2025-26. Key presentations by BJP MP Jagdambika Pal and Jai Prakash include the 39th to 44th Reports on matters ranging from excesses over voted grants and charged appropriations to derailments in Indian Railways and issues concerning service tax/GST collections from passengers. (ANI)

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra on Wednesday alleged that BJP cadres were caught submitting tens of thousands of Form-6 applications to add new voters to electoral rolls, raising questions about the fairness of the process.

Moitra claimed, “Yesterday and the day before, BJP’s cadres were caught red-handed with 30,000 to 40,000 Form-6. With Form-6, any new voter can get themselves added to the voter list. Even if there are a lot of young people in one booth who have been added to the voter list, at most 50 Form-6 can be collected by any party’s booth-level agent.”

She further questioned, “If Form-6 is not allowed in appeal cases, then how are BJP’s booth-level agents being allowed to submit Form-6 in thousands? In Maharashtra, 40 lakh new voters were added in 5 months…”

Moitra’s remarks come amid heightened scrutiny over voter enrolment practices ahead of upcoming elections, with opposition parties raising concerns about possible misuse of electoral procedures.

Earlier, the TMC supporters launched an indefinite protest near the Chief Electoral Officer’s (CEO) office in Kolkata, alleging large-scale irregularities in the submission of Form 6 applications and demanding strict action against those involved.

The protest, which entered its second day, comes amid heightened political tensions following violent clashes between TMC and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers in the area.

Protesters, including booth-level officers (BLOs) backed by the ruling party, have vowed to continue their agitation without a deadline. They have accused Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar of colluding with the BJP, a charge that has further escalated the political confrontation.

Amid the ongoing protest, TMC supporters reiterated their demand for action against those allegedly attempting to submit bulk Form 6 applications. “Action must be taken against those found guilty of attempting to submit Form 6 applications at the Chief Electoral Officer’s office in Kolkata,” one of the protesters said.

Demonstrators raised slogans and staged sit-ins near the CEO’s office, asserting that the alleged irregularities could impact the integrity of the electoral process in West Bengal.

The controversy stems from an incident that occurred on Tuesday when BLOs claimed they intercepted a BJP worker attempting to enter the CEO’s office with over 400 Form 6 applications. Form 6 is used for inclusion of names in the electoral rolls, and the large number of applications raised suspicions among TMC supporters.

Following the claim, TMC workers gathered outside the office in protest on Tuesday while BJP supporters also reached the spot, leading to a heated exchange that soon spiralled into violence.

Police said more than 500 supporters from both the BJP and the TMC sides were involved in the clash, which continued for over eight hours and created a tense atmosphere in the heart of the city. Police and central forces had to intervene to bring the situation under control. Personnel equipped with batons had used mild force to disperse the crowd and prevent further escalation.

In response to the unrest, authorities have significantly tightened security arrangements in the area on Wednesday. A heavy deployment of police and central forces has been put in place to maintain law and order and to ensure that no further clashes occur. Barricades have been erected along key stretches of Hare Street near the CEO’s office to regulate movement and prevent large gatherings.

Traffic restrictions have also been imposed as part of the security measures. Vehicular movement toward the CEO’s office has been curtailed, with routes diverted to alternate roads, leading to inconvenience for commuters.

Officials said these steps are precautionary and will remain in force until the situation stabilises.

With both sides standing firm and the protest showing no signs of easing, the situation around the CEO’s office remains sensitive.

Authorities said they continue to monitor developments closely to prevent any further flare-up in the political standoff over the Form 6 issue. (ANI)