Amid the ongoing LPG crisis across the country, the Government of India on Sunday asked city gas distribution (CGD) companies to prioritise piped natural gas (PNG) connections for commercial establishments. As reported by news agency ANI, the government has also taken several steps to ensure stable fuel supplies as conflict in West Asia continues to impact energy flows. In an official update released on Saturday, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said, "City Gas Distribution (CGD) entities have been advised by the Govt. of India to prioritise PNG connections for commercial establishments such as restaurants, hotels and canteens across all their gas to address concerns regarding the availability of commercial LPG." Misinformation can lead to unnecessary panic.Proactive measures are in place to ensure uninterrupted LPG supply across the country.• Domestic LPG production has increased• Supply is being prioritised for households• Measures have been implemented to prevent diversion•… pic.twitter.com/5ZF9wc6kVK — Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas #MoPNG (@PetroleumMin) March 12, 2026 Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry also added that the government has asked ministries and state governments to speed up approvals related to gas infrastructure, reported ANI. The Ministry added, "Govt. of India, vide letter dated 19.03.2026 has requested all concerned Central Government Ministries to issue necessary directions... for immediate fast tracking and disposal of all pending and new permissions related to CGD infrastructure." Indian government encourages offices to use PNG The government has also encouraged government offices and establishments to move towards PNG usage where possible. "All Central Government establishments/Colonies/Officers/Canteens may also be advised to switch over to PNG wherever the same is available," the ministry said. To support commercial users, the government has increased the allocation of commercial LPG cylinders. The ministry asserted, "Govt. of India, vide letter dated 21.03.2026 has allowed another 20 per cent allocation of commercial LPG to states, which would take the overall allocation to 50 per cent." "This additional 20 per cent allocation shall be given on priority to sectors like restaurants, dhabas, hotels, industrial canteens, food processing/dairy, subsidised canteens/outlets run by state governments or local bodies for food, community kitchens, and 5 kg FTL for migrant labourers," it added while expressing concerns over the LPG crisis across India. It also noted that the government has stepped up monitoring to prevent black marketing and hoarding of LPG cylinders. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, while expressing concerns over the black marketing of LPG cylinders, also noted, "Raids continue to be carried out in many of the States/UTs to check the hoardings and black marketing of LPG. More than 3,500 raids have been conducted, and around 1,400 cylinders have been seized in Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, etc., as per ANI. The ministry also stated that "All refineries are operating at high capacity, with adequate crude inventories in place", adding that "the country is also maintaining sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel." It also reassured the public that there are no fuel shortages at retail outlets (ROs). "No cases of fuel dry-outs have been reported at any of the ROs by the oil marketing companies," the ministry said, while advising people "not to resort to panic buying". The development comes amid the escalating tensions and conflict that began on February 28 with the killing of 86-year-old Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in joint military strikes by the US and Israel. (With inputs from ANI)
22 March,2026 05:45 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentPrime Minister Narendra Modi will chair a meeting Sunday evening with senior ministers to review to take stock of petroleum, power, and fertiliser sectors in view of the evolving West Asia situation, sources have said. The focus of the meeting is to ensure uninterrupted supply, stable logistics and efficient distribution across the country, and the government is taking proactive steps to this end, they said. Continuous monitoring of global developments to protect consumer and industry interests is the key focus of the government, they said. On March 12, Modi said that the war in West Asia has triggered a worldwide energy crisis, posing a critical test of national character that requires dealing with circumstances through peace, patience, and increased public awareness. The prime minister emphasised that his government is working relentlessly to address disruptions that have emerged in international supply chains. "Continuous efforts are also underway to determine how we can overcome the disruptions that have occurred in the supply chain," Modi said. The prime minister has spoken to many global leaders since the West Asia conflict started on February 28, with the US and Israel attacking Iran. Iran has retaliated by attacking Israel and several of its Gulf neighbours. Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route through which 20 per cent of the world's energy is transported. Since the conflict, very few ships have been allowed by Iran to cross it. The blockade has resulted in severe disruptions in energy supply to many countries, including India. Since the conflict, Modi has had telephonic conversations with leaders from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, France, Malaysia, Israel and Iran. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
22 March,2026 03:29 PM IST | New Delhi [India] | PTIPrime Minister Narendra Modi has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the longest-serving head of an elected government in India. He has completed 8,931 days in office, surpassing former Sikkim Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling, who held the record earlier of serving for 8,930 days. This count includes Modi’s tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat as well as his time as Prime Minister of India, marking his entry into the 25th year in public office. Journey from Gujarat to Delhi PM Modi began his leadership journey on October 7, 2001, when he took oath as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. He served in that role for over 13 years, until May 2014. He then moved to national politics and was sworn in as the 14th Prime Minister of India on May 26, 2014. He made history by becoming the first non-Congress leader to win a full majority in the Lok Sabha. Modi also became the first non-Congress Prime Minister to complete two full terms and return for a third consecutive term, after winning the 2014, 2019, and 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Record-breaking leadership Over the years, Modi has set several records in Indian politics. He is the longest-serving Chief Minister of Gujarat and also the Prime Minister with the longest prior experience as a Chief Minister. He is also notable for being the first Prime Minister born after India’s Independence, symbolising a generational shift in leadership. Strong online presence Apart from political achievements, Modi has also built a strong presence on social media. He recently crossed 30 million subscribers on YouTube, becoming one of the most-followed global leaders on the platform. On Instagram, he has surpassed 100 million followers, making him the first serving world leader to reach this mark while on X (formerly Twitter), he currently has over 106 million followers. These milestones reflect his ability to connect with people both in India and across the world through digital platforms. Strengthening global partnerships Through frequent foreign visits, international summits, and initiatives such as the G20 presidency, Modi has worked to strengthen India’s global standing, with the impact evident in how the country navigates complex situations like ongoing conflicts. Prime Minister Modi has expanded India’s global ties by strengthening strategic partnerships with the United States, Japan, Australia, and key European nations, while maintaining close relations with Russia. He has also increased engagement with neighbouring countries like Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, and outreach to the Global South, positioning India as an active player. (With IANS Inputs)
22 March,2026 01:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) will lift temporary caps on domestic airfares from March 23, following the stabilisation of flight operations and restoration of capacity, sources told the ANI. The move will mark a return to market-driven pricing across India’s domestic aviation sector. The restrictions were introduced in December 2025 after widespread flight cancellations by IndiGo led to a sharp drop in capacity. This resulted in a surge in ticket prices on major domestic routes, prompting concerns over affordability. Sources indicated that the lifting of these restrictions will return pricing to a market-driven model. While removing the caps, the Ministry cautioned airlines to maintain reasonable, transparent pricing and warned of potential regulatory intervention if unjustified surges occur. Return to market-based pricing With operations now stabilised, the government has decided to withdraw the caps and allow airlines to determine fares based on demand and supply, according to the ANI. However, airlines have been advised to maintain reasonable and transparent pricing practices. The Ministry cautioned that any unjustified increase in ticket prices could invite regulatory intervention. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) will continue to monitor fares in real time to ensure compliance. Protecting passengers Earlier on December 6, 2025, the Ministry of Civil Aviation took serious note of concerns regarding unusually high airfares being charged by certain airlines during the ongoing disruption. In order to protect passengers from any form of opportunistic pricing, the Ministry has invoked its regulatory powers to ensure fair and reasonable fares across all affected routes. An official directive was issued to all airlines mandating strict adherence to the fare caps that have now been prescribed. These caps were to remain in force until the situation fully stabilises, according to an official release from the Ministry of Civil Aviation. When the caps were introduced, the Ministry had raised concerns about unusually high fares being charged during the disruption. Airlines were directed to strictly follow fare limits to prevent opportunistic pricing and protect passengers, especially those travelling for urgent needs such as medical care, education, or family emergencies. The aim was to ensure affordability and prevent financial strain during a period of reduced flight availability. (with ANI inputs)
22 March,2026 11:41 AM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentUS President Donald Trump has warned Iran to fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours or face military strikes on its power infrastructure. In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote that the United States would “hit and obliterate” Iranian power plants if the vital shipping route is not reopened without threat. Quoting his statement, the White House, in a post on X wrote, "If Iran doesn’t fully open, without threat, the Strait of Hormuz, within 48 HOURS from this exact point in time, the United States of America will hit and obliterate their various power plants, starting with the biggest one first." 🚨 “If Iran doesn’t FULLY OPEN, WITHOUT THREAT, the Strait of Hormuz, within 48 HOURS from this exact point in time, the United States of America will hit and obliterate their various POWER PLANTS, STARTING WITH THE BIGGEST ONE FIRST…” - President DONALD J. TRUMP pic.twitter.com/htLz1A0Mf7 — The White House (@WhiteHouse) March 22, 2026 The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important shipping lanes, used for transporting oil and other goods. President Trump described reopening the route as a straightforward military task but said it would require significant coordination and resources, including ships and international support. Call for global involvement The US President urged allies and major economies to take greater responsibility for securing the route, arguing that the United States is less dependent on it than others. “We don’t need it… Europe, Korea, Japan and China do,” he said, framing the situation as a shared international concern, reported the IANS. He also criticised NATO for not taking stronger action so far. Indo-Pacific partners urged to act Trump called on Indo-Pacific nations, including South Korea and Australia, to play a more active role in addressing the situation, according to the IANS. He expressed surprise at what he described as their reluctance to get involved. Despite growing international calls for de-escalation, Trump ruled out any ceasefire in the ongoing conflict involving Iran. “You don’t do a ceasefire when you’re obliterating the other side,” he said, indicating that US military operations would continue, the news agency reported. Claims of weakened Iranian forces Trump also claimed that Iran’s military capabilities have been significantly reduced, stating that its navy, air force and air defence systems are no longer effective. He further suggested that Iranian leadership structures have been severely impacted, indicating that the campaign may be nearing its objectives. (with IANS inputs)
22 March,2026 10:17 AM IST | Washington | mid-day online correspondentA BLO drowned in a river at Mogral Puthur on Saturday, with his family alleging suicide due to work pressure, police said. Police said his body was found in a river near Kadavath at around 9.30 am. Though he was rushed to the Kasaragod Government General Hospital, he was declared dead. Police said that the officer had left his house on a motorcycle around 7 am for work. The vehicle was later found parked near a bridge over the river, they added. However, family members and relatives refused to accept the body, demanding a detailed probe into the incident. A relative told reporters that the officer was under severe pressure due to election-related work. They also demanded that the district collector reach the hospital and assure a proper investigation. Officials said the district collector would meet the family soon, after which the body would be shifted to the mortuary. Police have registered a case of unnatural death and initiated an investigation. The body will be handed over to relatives after a postmortem. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
22 March,2026 09:59 AM IST | Kerala | AgenciesThe National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has set up an expert committee on invasive alien species following directions from the National Green Tribunal (NGT), officials said. The move comes amid concerns over threats posed by foreign species to biodiversity, agriculture, food security, and human and wildlife health. Dhananjai Mohan The panel will compile “a state-wise list of invasive species, prioritise high-risk ones, and recommend science-based management and ecological restoration measures”. It will also draft national guidelines for prevention, control, and eradication, while identifying research gaps and promoting data generation. Chaired by former Uttarakhand PCCF Dhananjai Mohan, the committee includes experts from key institutions and will function for two years to strengthen biodiversity conservation efforts. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
22 March,2026 09:56 AM IST | New Delhi | AgenciesIndian refiners are planning to resume purchases of Iranian crude after the United States issued a 30-day sanctions waiver, traders said. The temporary relief allows oil loaded before March 20 to be discharged by April 19, amid supply disruptions linked to the US-Israel conflict with Iran. Refiners are awaiting government guidance and clarity on payment mechanisms. With limited domestic stockpiles and reduced West Asia flows, Indian firms are exploring options alongside other Asian buyers. However, logistical and compliance challenges, including payment routes and reliance on ageing vessels, may complicate transactions despite an estimated 130–170 million barrels currently at sea. Hungry weavers leave Surat To manage the crisis, community kitchens are feeding over 5000 workers daily. PIC/YOUTUBE Media reports indicate a growing exodus of migrant workers from Surat’s textile hub amid an LPG price surge, triggering concerns of a labour shortage. Workers from states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Odisha are returning home, with visuals showing large crowds at Udhna railway station. Industry bodies say several units have cut operations, with some mills shutting one to two days a week. To manage the crisis, community kitchens are feeding over 5000 workers daily, while authorities have deployed officials across 75 LPG agencies to curb black marketing and stabilise supply. Modi speaks to Iran Prez Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Iran’s President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian on a telephonic call. On X, Modi said, “Conveyed Eid and Nowruz greetings. We expressed hope that this festive season brings peace, stability, and prosperity to West Asia. Condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region, which threaten regional stability and disrupt global supply chains.” J&K shows Iran support after last Roza The posters held signs saying, “Death to Israel and US”. PIC/PTI Peaceful protests were staged in Kashmir after Eid prayers on Saturday, condemning the US-Israel attacks on Iran, officials said. A march in solidarity with Iran was taken out after Eid prayers, with protesters raising slogans against the US-Israel alliance and in support of the Iranian regime. The protesters carried flags of Iran and photos of its slain Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. The authorities had deployed a large number of security personnel in the vulnerable areas across the Valley to maintain law and order, they said. Biryani prices become buzzkill in Eid celebrations REPRESENTATIVE PIC/ISTOCK The LPG crisis-forced migration to firewood has made prices of biryani skyrocket in Tamil Nadu. One hotelier said, “This time, hotels migrated to firewood. As the cost of firewood has jumped several fold, the price of biryani has also increased.” Cylinder chors run amok in Bengaluru Two men allegedly stole LPG cylinders from a residence in Bengaluru, police said, with the incident captured on CCTV. The theft occurred on Thursday, coinciding with Ugadi celebrations. Footage shows the accused arriving on a scooter, taking two cylinders and fleeing. Police have launched an investigation, but no arrests have been made so far. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
22 March,2026 09:53 AM IST | New Delhi | AgenciesPrime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday marked World Water Day 2026, emphasising the importance of water in shaping the future of the planet. In a post on X, he wrote, “Water sustains us and shapes our planet’s future. On World Water Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to conserve every drop of water and use it responsibly.” He also acknowledged the efforts of individuals and organizations engaged in sustainable practices and raising awareness about water conservation. Water sustains us and shapes our planet’s future. On World Water Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to conserve every drop of water and use it responsibly. Today is also a day to appreciate those who engage in sustainable practices, promote awareness and nurture a culture of… pic.twitter.com/lG2WlOmYGD — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 22, 2026 World Water Day: Purpose and theme World Water Day, observed annually on March 22 since 1993, is dedicated to highlighting the importance of freshwater and the urgent need for sustainable water management. This year’s World Water Day theme, “Water and Gender,” highlights the need for inclusive and equitable water management. Women often play a key role in collecting and managing water but have limited say in decisions. The theme urges governments, industries, and communities to ensure women are included in planning, policy-making, and water governance, so that water security is achieved fairly and sustainably for everyone. India hosts World Water Day Conclave 2026 The Ministry of Jal Shakti will organize the World Water Day Conclave 2026 on March 23 at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. The event will focus on the theme “Industry for Water” and will be attended by the Union Minister of Jal Shakti, CR Paatil, along with senior government officials and industry representatives as per ANI reports. The conclave aims to create a national platform for dialogue and collaboration on sustainable water management. It will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, academia, startups, MSMEs, and young innovators to co-develop scalable, technology-driven solutions for efficient water use. A key highlight of the conclave is the promotion of water stewardship in industry. Industries are being encouraged to shift from simply using water to actively managing it responsibly. Initiatives include water recycling, reuse, and adopting smarter technologies for sustainable water management. The event will feature the felicitation of Jal Shakti Hackathon winners, recognising innovative solutions in the water sector. State governments will also participate, with sessions dedicated to census data and the release of major national water reports, emphasizing data-driven water governance. Community participation and awareness States and Union Territories are encouraged to organize awareness programs on water conservation. Activities may include rainwater harvesting, efficient water use in urban areas, community-led initiatives, and collaboration with industries. The conclave aims to promote a “whole-of-government” and “whole-of-society” approach, encouraging all stakeholders to take responsibility for water security and sustainability. Innovation, ideas and action The World Water Day Conclave embodies the theme “Ideas. Innovation. Action.” by bringing together government, industry, and academia to foster research, innovation, and partnerships. This collaborative approach aims to create a water-secure and resilient India, where both policy and practice contribute to responsible water use. World Water Day serves as a reminder that water is a vital resource that sustains life and the planet. Through national initiatives like the World Water Day Conclave and the promotion of sustainable practices, India aims to address water scarcity, climate change, and equitable access, ensuring that every drop counts toward a brighter, water-secure future. (With ANI Inputs)
22 March,2026 09:38 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentIn a major push to strengthen security and accelerate development in Maoist-affected regions of Maharashtra, the Gadchiroli Police on Thursday established a new police assistance centre at Bangadi. As per an official statement, this is an extremely remote village in the Bhamragad sub-division; therefore, the police assistance centre will help make the situation under control. Located just 8 km from Laheri Sub-Police Station and barely 2 km from the Chhattisgarh border, the newly set-up centre is expected to play a crucial role in curbing Maoist activities while improving access to government services in the region. The facility was constructed within 24 hours using a workforce of over 1,000 personnel. The operation involved C-60 commandos, Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) teams, newly recruited police personnel, 500 special police officers, and private contractors, supported by heavy machinery including JCBs, excavators, trailers, and trucks. Senior officers, including Sandeep Patil, Ankit Goyal, Ajay Kumar Sharma, Neelotpal, and Parvinder Singh, were present during the inauguration ceremony, along with other officers and local villagers. Superintendent of Police Neelotpal said, “This new Police Assistance Centre will help deliver both security and development initiatives to citizens, contributing to the holistic growth of the region.” Bangadi centre established to plug security gaps in Gadchiroli The Bangadi centre is the 11th such facility established since 2023 as part of a broader strategy to plug security gaps in Gadchiroli, one of Maharashtra’s most sensitive districts from a Maoist perspective. Previous installations include centres at Phulanar Camp (November 2025), Tumarkothi Police Station (December 2025), and Binagunda (January 2026). Police assistance centre equipped with modern amenities The newly built centre is equipped with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi connectivity, generator shed, an RO water plant, a mobile tower, and sanitation facilities. Robust security arrangements have also been put in place, including deployment of Gadchiroli Police personnel, SRPF units, CRPF forces, and special operations squads, along with fortified bunkers and perimeter defences. Marking the occasion, a Jan Jagran Mela (public awareness drive) was organised, during which essential items such as sarees, dhotis, blankets, utensils, school supplies, and sports equipment were distributed to local residents. Officials said the enhanced security presence would pave the way for key infrastructure projects in the region, including national highways, bridges, mobile towers, and irrigation works. The development is also expected to enable the introduction of state transport bus services in the future. Local residents expressed satisfaction over the establishment of the centre, stating that it has instilled a renewed sense of safety and hope for faster development in the region.
21 March,2026 10:47 PM IST | Gadchiroli | mid-day online correspondentWith the LPG shortage crisis gripping the entire nation, instances of cyber fraud related to LPG bookings have been reported from some states. Some fraudsters are attempting to exploit the situation by sending malicious files such as “GAS BILL UPDATE APK” via messaging platforms such as WhatsApp to mislead consumers, news agency IANS reported, quoting an official statement on Thursday. The statement further noted, “Users are advised not to download or install any suspicious files or applications received through messages, as these may enable unauthorised access to personal data and bank accounts. Citizens are urged to rely only on official platforms for LPG bookings." Meanwhile, the Centre has advised states and Union Territories to further strengthen administrative and logistical arrangements to ensure uninterrupted LPG distribution. LPG supply being closely monitored by the authorities In view of protecting the stocking of LPG cylinders, authorities are ensuring close monitoring of LPG supply at the district level. Furthermore, the authorities are also facilitating smooth movement of tankers and cylinders without disruption. States and UTs have been advised to issue and widely disseminate public advisories to prevent panic buying, promote judicious use of LPG and ensure dissemination of accurate information, reported IANS. Instructions from the centre are being communicated to all concerned authorities for immediate implementation. Amid the crisis, citizens are advised to rely on official sources and avoid rumours. Authorities also urged them to avoid panic bookings, use digital booking platforms, and avoid visiting LPG distributors, as home delivery continues. Government continues to prioritise LPG supply to hospitals The government continues to prioritise uninterrupted LPG supply and PNG expansion, particularly for households and priority sectors such as hospitals and educational institutions. The measures include enhanced refinery production, revised booking intervals of 25 days in urban areas and up to 45 days in rural areas, and prioritised allocation. Alternative fuel options like kerosene and coal have been offered to ease pressure on LPG demand. The Ministry of Environment has already advised the State Pollution Control Board to permit the use of kerosene and coal as alternative fuels. (With inputs from IANS)
21 March,2026 08:05 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
-1774173432116_d.png "Narendra Modi. Pic/X")
-1774152159891_d.png "Sustainable water management in focus on World Water Day. Representational Pic")
