India’s green industrial push ‘strategic necessity’: EAC-PM Chairman

EAC-PM chief Mahendra Dev says energy shocks and geopolitics make green industrialisation vital for India. Backed by growth and Atmanirbhar, India will pursue COP26 via efficiency, electrification, green H2, circularity, and carbon markets for inclusive, job-rich gains.

Flipkart said Group CFO Sriram Venkataraman will exit after a transition, with CFO Ravi Iyer overseeing finance. It hired Nishant Verman as SVP amid broader leadership hires as it readies an India IPO by 2026–27 after redomiciling, targeting a $36–50B valuation and a pre-IPO raise.

Tata Steel Q3FY26: revenue Rs57,002cr, EBITDA Rs8,309cr (15%), PAT Rs2,730cr; net debt down to Rs81,834cr. India margin 23%; EU aided by CBAM, UK losses narrowing with new EAF. OCF Rs10,345cr; strong savings. Capex to lift India capacity to 40 mtpa by FY31; demand seen up 8–10%.

Despite heightened geopolitical tensions, retail investors in India are not stepping back—they are evolving. According to smallcase CEO Vasanth Kamath, there is a clear shift towards index investing, diversification, and disciplined long-term strategies.

Geopolitics and FPI outflows rattle Indian markets. PE/HNIs delay block trades as 87 IPO lock-ins (~₹6T) near expiry; many below issue. Mid/small caps slump; deals pause, with depth likely to absorb on sentiment turn.

AFC has paused bidding for the 2031 and 2035 Asian Cup as it reviews its competitions calendar amid possible changes to the global football schedule with FIFA.

Oil fell Friday as Europe and Japan backed securing Hormuz shipping and the US eyed boosting supply, including easing Iran tanker sanctions and a possible SPR release. Brent $107.41 (-1.1%), WTI $94.90 (-1.3%); Brent up ~4% weekly, WTI down ~4%. US urged Israel to avoid Iran strikes

TMC unveils poll manifesto with 10 pledges: ₹30,000 cr special farm budget; Lakshmir Bhandar raised by ₹500 to ₹1,500 (general) and ₹1,700 (SC/ST); ₹1,500 stipend for unemployed youth; housing for all, piped water, better healthcare and infrastructure. WB votes Apr 23 & 29; results May 4.

Samsung will launch Galaxy A57 and A37 in India on March 25 (5:30 PM IST). Both tout FHD+ 120Hz AMOLEDs, triple cams (50MP OIS), 12MP selfie, 5,000mAh/45W. A57: Exynos 1680, up to 12/512, metal frame, Victus+, IP68, NFC. A37: Exynos 1480, up to 8/256, plastic, GG 7i. 4K video teased.

Cookware affects health, taste, and durability. Use a mix: stainless steel for daily non-reactive cooking, cast iron for heat and iron, anodised aluminium, and PFOA-free non-stick/ceramic at moderate heat. Avoid overheating, scratches, and acidic foods in raw aluminium. Buy durable pieces,.

Mozilla is rolling out Firefox 149 (from March 24) with a free built-in VPN (up to 50GB/month in select regions), revamped Settings with clearer navigation and search, AI “Smart Window” via waitlist, Split View and Tab Notes, plus a modernized UI and a new mascot, Kit.

Canada’s immigration backlog fell to 990,300 (Jan 31, 2026), first under 1M since Oct 2025, as total inventory dipped to 2.09M. Work permit backlog improved to 38% (136.7k finalized), but study permits worsened to 50% (34.2k). PR inventory rose to 995.5k; EE/PNP backlogs down, family up

Redmi will launch the Redmi 15A in India on March 27. Teased specs include an octa-core chipset, 6,300mAh battery, a “segment’s largest” 120Hz display, and a Hi-Res dual camera, in Black/Blue/Pink. It’s expected to be cheaper than the Redmi 15, which packs Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 and a 7,000mAh battery.

ECI has directed parties and candidates to pre-certify political ads on TV and digital platforms ahead of Assembly elections, amid concerns over misinformation and AI misuse in campaigns.

Google is testing a native Gemini app for macOS, moving beyond the web. The beta for select users supports media generation, analysis, web search, file review, and personalization. A Desktop Intelligence mode may read on‑screen/app data for context. Launch timing TBD; rivals already have Mac apps.

Doctors warn of rising DVT in young adults as sedentary “sitting disease” slows leg blood flow. Even the fit are at risk with immobility, dehydration, smoking, long travel. Watch for calf pain, one-leg swelling, warmth. Prevent with frequent movement, hydration, posture, leg exercises. 

Union minister Jayant Chaudhary allegedly received a death threat call from an unknown number on Thursday, triggering an immediate security review. A complaint was filed at Delhi’s Tughlak Road police station. Police are investigating and tracing the caller. He is MoS (IC) for Skill Development.

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma led a 5.6-km procession in Guwahati before filing his Jalukbari nomination, after seeking his mother’s blessings. Joined by family and BJP MP Bijuli Kalita Medhi, he drew big crowds despite rain. Sarma, MLA since 2001, seeks a sixth term; Assam votes Apr 9, count May 4.

On the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr, Delhi has intensified security in Dwarka and tense Uttam Nagar after a March 4 killing. 100+ pickets, rooftop posts and joint forces guard hotspots, notably Uttam Nagar East metro and Hastsal. Extra cover at mosques/Eidgahs, social media checks, flag marches

Rahul Gandhi says Kerala is ready for change, pitching a UDF government and its mix of seasoned leaders and young changemakers. He cites his bond with the state and vows support. The note follows Congress naming 92 candidates for Apr 9 polls to take on the ruling LDF after a decade out of power.

Mitchell Starc (DC) and Josh Hazlewood (RCB) will miss the start of IPL 2026 as Cricket Australia manages workloads amid a heavy Test calendar. Their delay, plus absences for Pat Cummins, Jack Edwards and Nathan Ellis, disrupts early plans; teams must lean on depth in powerplay/death overs.

OnePlus Nord Buds 4 Pro (Rs 3999) add Hi-Res support, a 55dB ANC claim. Comfortable fit, reliable dual-device connectivity and app controls, ~6h battery with fast USB-C top-ups. Sound is bass-heavy with okay clarity; ANC modest in noisy spots; calls average. Low-latency mode works, design is plain

Odisha Assembly was disrupted for a 4th day as BJD and Congress demanded Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling’s resignation after a Mar 16 ICU fire at Cuttack’s SCB hospital killed 12. Opposition stormed the Well; Speaker adjourned twice. BJP cited upgrades, suspensions, ex gratia, and a judicial probe.

Mahindra Holidays added 159 rooms via new Club Mahindra resorts at Amba Ghat (Maharashtra) and Bandhavgarh (Madhya Pradesh), strengthening its western/central presence. The move backs targets of 1,000 new rooms by FY26 and 12,000 keys by FY30 amid demand for immersive, nature-led stays.

Becca Wasser argues Trump’s doctrine favors speedy, unilateral, long‑range strikes over coalitions or ground wars to coerce foes. But his second term’s frequent, repeat campaigns—from Iran to Houthis and ISIS—show limited force seldom achieves goals, fueling re-strikes and creeping entanglement.

Becca Wasser argues Trump’s doctrine favors speedy, unilateral, long‑range strikes over coalitions or ground wars to coerce foes. But his second term’s frequent, repeat campaigns—from Iran to Houthis and ISIS—show limited force seldom achieves goals, fueling re-strikes and creeping entanglement.

With scarce H-1B/H-4 slots, some try B-1/B-2 to reenter the U.S., but lawyers warn it’s risky. Visitor visas require true short-term intent; prior U.S. ties can trigger 214(b) denials and possible misrepresentation findings harming future cases.

With LPG supplies hit by the West Asia conflict, Indian kitchens are shifting from flame to induction. Electromagnetic cooktops are faster, safer, efficient; sales are surging. Success needs higher wattage and compatible cookware. Options span Rs1.5k–11L. 

Flipkart said Group CFO Sriram Venkataraman is stepping down, staying on briefly to ensure a smooth transition. In the interim, Flipkart CFO Ravi Iyer will oversee the broader finance team. The firm also rehired Nishant Verman as SVP, Corporate Development & Partnerships after his Bzaar venture.

Swissport has extended and expanded its TCS partnership by five years to drive digital innovation and tech transformation. TCS will modernize IT and scale AI, data platforms, and hybrid cloud to boost resilience and efficiency in ground ops. Swissport named TCS its 2025 Innovation Partner.

Samsung’s Galaxy Forever in India lets Galaxy S26 Ultra/Plus buyers pay 50% over 12 no‑cost EMIs (+₹749.92/mo fee), then after a year: return for 50% buyback, retain by paying the rest (EMI for cards; month‑13 for Finance+), or upgrade (Finance+). Includes 13‑month Samsung Care+. 

After 35, gradual weight gain is common, but resistant gain may signal hypothyroidism. Watch for fatigue, dry skin, hair loss, constipation, cold intolerance, mood or menstrual changes, brain fog. Women are at higher risk. Tests: TSH, T3/T4, antibodies. Early diagnosis helps—seek care.

After a five-medal haul at Hangzhou 2022 (men’s team gold, Ghosal silver), India’s men’s squash squad targets a best-ever at Nagoya 2026. With Abhay Singh, Ramit Tandon, Veer Chotrani and Velavan Senthilkumar rising, fierce internal competition drives consistency to boost the medal count.

Canada’s RCMP chief says there’s currently no evidence of India-linked clandestine activity or transnational repression in Canada, though intimidation occurs. After 2023 Nijjar-related tensions, ties are thawing under PM Mark Carney: envoys restored, uranium/minerals deals, CEPA talks advancing.

Govt invites bids to set up 6,000 MTPA sintered NdFeB magnet plants under ₹7,280-cr scheme. RFP out; pre-bid Apr 7; bids due May 28; tech bids May 29, 2026. LCS two-stage online. Subsidies offered; 600–1,200 MTPA per unit; top 3 get NdPr oxide from IREL.  

From Apr 8, 2026, the UK lifts immigration, visa and passport fees 6–25%. Most rise 6–7%; ETA £16→£20; passports +8%. Examples: visitor £127→£135, student £524→£558, skilled worker to £819/£1,618. ILR £3,029→£3,226; naturalisation £1,605→£1,709. Child citizenship cut to £1,000.

Fitbit is expanding its Gemini-powered Health Coach to integrate medical records, boost sleep tracking accuracy by 15% with a redesigned Sleep Score, add AI insights, link CGMs via Health Connect, and pilot “Get care now” with Included Health. 

The rupee hit a record intraday low of 93.08/$ amid a stronger dollar, FII outflows, and West Asia conflict; elevated oil added pressure. RBI is seen selling dollars to curb the slide. Equities rebounded (Sensex +961, Nifty +312). Dollar index 100.25; Brent ~$106.9. FIIs net sold ₹7,558 cr.

Ontario invited 1,243 candidates in six OINP draws, reviving Masters (582, score 30+) and PhD (525, 49+) streams for the first time since 2024, plus physicians (97, 36+) and REDI pilot (39). Profiles dated Jul 2, 2025–Mar 16, 2026. Focus on healthcare and regional hiring amid program redesign.

The Ministry of Heavy Industries has invited bids to set up integrated sintered NdFeB rare earth permanent magnet units under a ₹7,280 crore scheme aimed at building domestic capacity and supply chains.

As semaglutide’s patent lapses in India, at least a dozen major drugmakers—about 42 in total—will launch low-cost generics, sparking a price war. Natco’s shots start at ₹1,290/month; pens ~₹4,500 vs Wegovy’s ₹10,480. Firms test new delivery devices, form alliances, and target smaller cities.

India may add real-time euro FX settlement at GIFT City as EU-India trade talks advance. Regulator IFSCA has asked the government to allow euros alongside dollars. The USD RTGS via Standard Chartered cut settlements to seconds and risks, reducing reliance on overseas networks.

A MESA study of 6,814 adults links high ultra-processed food intake to a 67% higher risk of heart attack, stroke, or death; each extra daily serving adds 5% risk, independent of calories or diet quality. UPFs are salty, sugary, nutrient-poor. Cut back; pick minimally processed foods.

HDFC Bank shares fell over 5% (~$7b) after chairman Atanu Chakraborty abruptly quit citing ethics, triggering investor ire on a tense call as directors gave no specifics. Interim chair Keki Mistry and the CEO denied governance lapses; RBI backed the bank’s soundness, but doubts persist.

OpenAI is building a desktop superapp unifying ChatGPT, Codex, and browsing to cut fragmentation and speed development. Led by Fidji Simo with Greg Brockman, it aims easier task switching amid competition. OpenAI also launched faster, leaner GPT‑5.4 mini and nano for rapid, efficient tasks.

India’s fixation with sarkari jobs endures: UPSC applicants rose from 16k (1947) to 3.3m (2022) as success fell to ~0.2% (2022) and CSE ~0.1% (2025). 1979 reforms swelled numbers. Reservations reshaped intake—OBC ~31%, SC ~16%, ST ~7%, general ~33%—yet elites still dominate top tiers.

Small pharma manufacturers have urged the Centre to cap key input prices and tighten supply-chain oversight as raw material and packaging costs surge amid global disruptions linked to the West Asia conflict.

Uttarakhand expanded its cabinet on Friday, with five BJP MLAs—Khajan Das, Madan Kaushik, Pradeep Batra, Bharat Chaudhary and Ram Singh Kaira—sworn in at Lok Bhavan, Dehradun. Governor Gurmeet Singh administered the oath in CM Dhami’s presence, filling vacant posts after performance review.

With West Asia conflict choking Strait of Hormuz and Gulf LPG flows, India is pivoting to U.S. supplies. Gulf’s share slid to 34% by mid‑March amid import drops and stranded cargoes. U.S. deliveries are rising, and India inked a 2.2‑mt 2026 term deal, signaling a longer‑term shift.