India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has directed airlines to avoid operating in multiple West Asia airspaces amid escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran, citing heightened risks to civil aviation, reported news agency IANS. The advisory, issued as part of enhanced safety protocols, will remain in force until March 28 unless reviewed earlier. Airlines told to avoid 9 high-risk airspaces The DGCA has instructed carriers to refrain from flying through the airspace of Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, reported IANS. The regulator said the ongoing conflict and recent military strikes have created a volatile and high-risk environment for commercial flight operations. Conditional operations over Oman and Saudi Arabia Flights over Oman and Saudi Arabia may be permitted, but only under strict conditions. Airlines have been advised not to operate below Flight Level 320 (32,000 feet) in designated areas of these airspaces, reported IANS. This restriction is aimed at minimising exposure to potential threats in lower altitudes. Safety assessments and contingency plans mandated The DGCA has emphasised the need for comprehensive safety risk assessments and robust contingency planning. Airlines have been asked to prepare for possible rerouting, diversions and disruptions due to evolving geopolitical conditions, reported IANS. “Operations to airports in the region must be backed by comprehensive contingency planning to address all possible scenarios,” the regulator said, reported IANS. Mandatory compliance with real-time advisories Airlines have also been directed to ensure that flight crews are regularly updated with Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), which provide real-time information on airspace restrictions and operational hazards. The DGCA stressed that carriers must avoid operating in the affected airspaces at all altitudes unless explicitly permitted. Impact on flight operations likely The advisory is expected to lead to longer flight routes, increased fuel consumption and possible delays on international sectors, particularly flights connecting India with Europe and North America. Weather disruptions add to challenges Separately, airlines have issued advisories warning of possible delays due to adverse weather conditions in parts of India. IndiGo said flights to and from Delhi and Bengaluru may be affected by thundershowers, while Air India flagged rain and gusty winds in the national capital and northern regions, reported IANS. The combined impact of geopolitical tensions and weather disruptions is likely to affect flight schedules in the coming days. (With inputs from IANS)
20 March,2026 01:09 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentAnil Ambani on Friday appeared before the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) headquarters in New Delhi for the second consecutive day of questioning in connection with the Rs 2,929.05 crore alleged bank fraud case linked to Reliance Communications, reported ANI. The development follows the registration of an FIR based on a complaint lodged by the State Bank of India (SBI). Ambani had also appeared before the investigating officer on Thursday, during which he was questioned for nearly eight hours, according to an official statement. Multi-bank consortium complaint triggers case against RCOM, Ambani According to ANI, the criminal case was registered against Reliance Communications Limited, Anil Ambani, and others, including unknown public servants, based on a complaint dated August 18, 2025, received from SBI, the lead bank in a consortium of 11 banks. These include Bank of India, Central Bank of India, UCO Bank, Union Bank of India, Corporation Bank, Canara Bank, Syndicate Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, IDBI Bank Limited, and Oriental Bank of Commerce. The complaint is based on a forensic audit report that alleges large-scale diversion and misutilisation of loan funds through interlinked and circuitous transactions among group entities during 2013-17. This allegedly resulted in a wrongful loss of Rs 2,929.05 crore to SBI, out of a total exposure of Rs 19,694.33 crore involving 17 public sector banks. According to the probe agency, following the registration of the case, separate complaints were also received from Punjab National Bank, Bank of India, Union Bank of India, UCO Bank, Central Bank of India, IDBI Bank, and Bank of Maharashtra. Bank of Baroda files fresh complaint Additionally, another case was registered against Reliance Communications Limited, Anil Ambani, and others, including unknown public servants, on February 25, based on a complaint dated February 24 received from Bank of Baroda, which includes exposure from Dena Bank and Vijaya Bank, reported ANI. A separate case was also registered on March 5 against Reliance Communications Limited, its directors including Anil Ambani and Manjari Ashok Kacker, and others, including unknown public servants, based on a complaint dated February 2 received from Punjab National Bank, which includes exposure from United Bank of India. The press release stated that the CBI obtained search warrants from a special court in Mumbai and conducted searches on August 23, 2025, at two official premises of Reliance Communications Limited and the residential premises of Anil Ambani. Several incriminating documents were seized during the searches. (With ANI inputs)
20 March,2026 01:06 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentThe Centre on Friday invited bids for setting up manufacturing facilities for 6,000 metric tonnes per annum (MTPA) of rare earth permanent magnets under the Rs 7,280-crore Scheme to Promote Manufacturing of Sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnet (REPM), reported news agency PTI. The move is aimed at boosting domestic production and reducing dependence on imports for critical materials used in advanced technologies. Bids invited for integrated magnet manufacturing units The Ministry of Heavy Industries has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to select companies for establishing integrated manufacturing units for Sintered NdFeB rare earth permanent magnets, reported PTI. The bidding process will be conducted online through the Central Public Procurement Portal using a transparent two-stage system comprising technical and financial evaluations under the Least Cost System. Key dates for bidding process According to the ministry, a pre-bid conference is scheduled for April 7, while the last date for submission of bids is May 28. Technical bids will be opened on May 29, 2026, reported PTI. The structured timeline is expected to facilitate smooth participation from industry players. Incentives and subsidies under scheme The scheme provides substantial financial support to selected companies. A total of Rs 750 crore has been earmarked for capital subsidies, while Rs 6,450 crore has been allocated for sales-linked incentives, reported PTI. Each selected beneficiary will be assigned production capacity ranging from 600 MTPA to 1,200 MTPA, in multiples of 100 MTPA. Additionally, the three lowest bidders will receive limited assured supply of NdPr oxide from IREL (India) Ltd., ensuring access to critical raw materials required for production, reported PTI. Focus on reducing import dependence Rare earth permanent magnets, especially NdFeB magnets, are essential components in sectors such as electric vehicles, wind energy, electronics, aerospace and defence, reported PTI. Currently, India relies heavily on imports, particularly from China, for these materials. Building domestic value chain The scheme aims to create a complete domestic value chain — from processing NdPr oxide to manufacturing finished magnets — strengthening India’s position in the global supply chain, reported PTI. It is expected to support the country’s push towards self-reliance in critical technologies and enhance competitiveness in emerging sectors. Strategic push for advanced manufacturing Approved by the Union Cabinet last year, the initiative is part of a broader strategy to develop high-tech manufacturing capabilities in India, reported PTI. Officials said the scheme will not only boost industrial growth but also support clean energy and mobility transitions by ensuring a steady supply of key components. (With inputs from PTI)
20 March,2026 01:00 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentPrime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday highlighted the spiritual significance of Chaitra Navratri, saying that devotion to Maa Ambe fills the mind with a deep sense of peace and positive energy. In a message shared on social media platform X on the second day of the festival, the Prime Minister said the atmosphere during Navratri reflects faith and spiritual warmth across the country. PM shares message of devotion and positivity “The atmosphere of devotion to Maa Ambe during Navratri fills the mind with immense peace and energy. The echo of devotion and faith dedicated to the Mother Goddess warms the heart,” PM Modi said. He also shared a devotional aarti, “Aarti Ambe Tu Hai Jagdambe Kali,” sung by Anuradha Paudwal, highlighting the cultural and spiritual traditions associated with the festival. Day 2 dedicated to Goddess Brahmacharini The second day of Navratri is dedicated to Goddess Brahmacharini, one of the nine forms of Goddess Durga. Devotees observe fasts and offer prayers seeking strength, wisdom and inner peace. Goddess Brahmacharini is regarded as a symbol of penance, discipline and devotion. She is typically depicted wearing a white saree and holding a rosary and a water pot, representing simplicity and determination. Yogi Adityanath extends greetings Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also extended his wishes on the occasion, praying for the blessings of Goddess Brahmacharini for courage, restraint and well-being of all devotees. He emphasised the spiritual importance of the day and its role in fostering discipline and devotion among followers. Spiritual and cultural significance Devotees believe that worshipping Goddess Brahmacharini helps in attaining knowledge, emotional balance and strength. The day is also associated with the Swadhishthana (sacral) chakra and is linked to the planet Mars. Many devotees observe rituals wearing green attire, which is considered auspicious for the day and symbolises growth, harmony and new beginnings. Celebrations marked by faith and discipline Across the country, Navratri is being celebrated with devotion, fasting and prayers, as people immerse themselves in spiritual reflection and traditional practices. The festival continues to be an important cultural and religious occasion, bringing communities together in celebration of faith and positivity.
20 March,2026 12:48 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentPramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa, was admitted to Ruby Hall Clinic for evaluation and treatment of a cardiac condition, the hospital said in an official statement. The Chief Minister successfully underwent an angioplasty procedure, which was completed without any complications. According to the hospital, his condition is currently stable. He is recovering well and remains under close medical observation.
20 March,2026 12:42 PM IST | | A CorrespondentPunjab Police carried out a massive Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) across the state as part of its ongoing anti-drug campaign, ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’, resulting in the registration of 155 cases and the arrest of 187 individuals in a single day, Director General of Police (Law and Order) Arpit Shukla said on Thursday. Speaking on the development, the DGP said the operation was conducted under the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and targeted identified drug hotspots across the state. “The operation was supervised by senior officers, including ADGs, IGs, and DIGs from the headquarters, along with district SSPs and DIGs. We have recorded 155 cases today, arrested 187 individuals, and recovered a huge quantity of heroin and tablets,” Shukla stated. Highlighting the impact of the year-long campaign, he said that ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ has been instrumental in curbing drug-related activities in Punjab. “The campaign has been operational for the past year and has led to the registration of around 80,119 cases, with 54,190 arrests made. Additionally, more than 2,384 kilograms of heroin has been recovered so far,” he added. In a separate incident earlier on March 14, Amritsar Rural Police busted an ISI-sponsored terror and cross-border arms smuggling module, apprehending two accused and recovering rifles, pistols, and cartridges, according to the Punjab DGP. Preliminary investigations revealed that the accused were in contact with foreign-based handlers through social media. The module was also involved in radicalisation and spreading anti-India and anti-police narratives. In a post on X, the Punjab Police said, “An FIR has been registered at PS Gharinda, Amritsar Rural. Further investigation is underway to establish forward and backward linkages and dismantle the entire network. Punjab Police remains steadfast in its zero-tolerance approach against terrorism, illegal arms trafficking, and organised crime.” One AK-47 rifle with two magazines and 36 live cartridges, along with three sophisticated Glock 9mm pistols, were recovered from the alleged module. 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
20 March,2026 12:38 PM IST | Chandigarh | ANIA farmer in Maharashtra, who once could not afford to buy clothes but gradually built an empire of poultry business with an annual turnover running into crores, has been invited to share his insights as an agri-entrepreneur at the University of Oxford. Ravindra Manikrao Metkar, 57, who belongs to Mhasala Anjangaon Bari village in Amravati district, has been invited to speak at the Global Research Conference to be hosted at the University of Oxford in the UK from May 1 to 5 with "AI for Every Mind" as its theme. The conference is being organised by the Global Economic Forum (GEF) in collaboration with the university. An invitation letter sent by the organisers to Metkar says, "Considering your experience and contributions as an Indian Agri Entrepreneur, your presence and insights will be highly valuable to the discussions and collaborative exchanges during the conference." Metkar launched his poultry farming venture from the terrace of his house in 1984, when he was still studying in junior college. He started with Rs 3,000 that he received from his father, who served as a Class IV employee in the forest department. His humble poultry farm then had only 100 birds.After completing his master's degree in commerce, his mother received four acres of land from her mother at Chandurbazar in Amravati. The family then sold that land and bought one acre of land at Badnera in the district. Talking to PTI, Metkar said he took a loan of Rs 5 lakh from a bank and started a poultry farm with 4,000 birds. By 2006, the business grew by leaps and bounds, as there were 20,000 birds in the farm spread over an area of 10 acres in Mhasala Anjangaon Bari village. However, he suffered a major setback that year as the bird flu hit several countries, including India, on a large scale, bringing his business to a standstill.But notwithstanding the losses, he decided to start once again. In 2008, he dived into the business with a renewed vigour by taking a loan of Rs 25 lakh from a bank. His poultry farm then had 20,000 birds. "There was no looking back after that as 10,000 birds started getting added to the farm annually," he said. "At present, we do not have any bank loan, and there are now 1.8 lakh birds at our poultry farm spread over 50 acres of land with an annual turnover of Rs 15 crore," the farmer said. He said that he was also involved in the cultivation of fruit crops such as banana, mango, orange, sweet lime, sapodilla and coconut, apart from wheat and corn. "With innovative and natural farming methods that involve the use of organic fertilisers, we do farming with comparatively less input costs and earn high profits," he said.His two brothers and his older son, who has studied agriculture business management and is now pursuing an MBA, help him in his poultry business and agriculture, while his youngest son has earned a master's degree in Computer Engineering from a foreign university. Metkar said that he has now stopped increasing the number of his birds in his poultry farm and guides other farmers in allied farming activities, as he wants the members of the farming community to move forward. He has been invited by various agriculture colleges across India and abroad to share his success story and guide agriculture students and farmers. So far, he has delivered talks at Singapore University, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology in Jammu, Maharashtra Animal and Fishery Sciences University (MAFSU) in Nagpur, Indian Institute of Technology Bhilai, Dr Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), among others. "At one time, I did not have proper clothes and used to wear torn clothes that were stitched at home, and did not have a bicycle to go to college," Metkar said. "I had never imagined that I would get a chance to go to Oxford University and share my success story!" he added. 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.
20 March,2026 10:42 AM IST | Mumbai | PTICongress MLA C.S. Raazen Ekka said that the party has filed a petition before the Assembly Speaker seeking the disqualification of three of its MLAs, including Dasarathi Gamango and Sofia Firdous, for alleged cross-voting in the recent Rajya Sabha elections. Speaking to ANI, Ekka said, "We have filed a petition to the Speaker against three of our MLAs under the anti-defection law for their anti-party activities. We have already suspended them from the party." He added that the party has submitted evidence against two MLAs and will soon provide proof against the third. "We have submitted the proofs against two and will soon provide the same for the third one. We are following the prescribed procedure," he said. Ekka further stated that the final decision rests with the Speaker. "The Speaker will make a decision. We can also take it to court if we are not satisfied with the decision," he added. Earlier today, CS Raazen Ekka wrote to Speaker Surama Padhy, citing a violation of the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution. Speaking with ANI, he said that the party will soon be filing a similar demand regarding MLA Ramesh Jena. "The party has taken action against three MLAs, including one female MLA and two male MLAs, under the Anti-Defection Law for engaging in anti-party activities. The party has already suspended these MLAs and has filed petitions against two of them with the Speaker, seeking the cancellation of their seats, similar to the Sharad Yadav case. The Speaker will consider the procedure and make a decision. If it seems incorrect, then by law, the party can challenge it in court." Ekka said. "Evidence has been collected against two MLAs, and a petition will also be filed against the third MLA today. The party is following the prescribed procedure and has gathered sufficient evidence to support their claims," he added. This comes after, on Tuesday, Odisha Congress suspended three MLAs, Sofia Firdous, Ramesh Jena and Dasarathi Gomango, for cross-voting in the Rajya Sabha elections. The Congress has 14 MLAs in the assembly who had extended support to BJD candidate Datteswar Hota for the fourth Rajya Sabha seat, but cross-voting from BJD and Congress MLAs saw BJP-backed independent candidate Dilip Ray clinch the seat. The cross-voting from BJD and Congress in favour of Ray left the opposition only with one candidate's victory in the Rajya Sabha polls, while the BJP secured two comfortable seats and one going to an independent candidate. 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
20 March,2026 08:49 AM IST | Bhubaneswar | ANIGlobal toy phenomenon ‘Labubu’ is set to make its big-screen debut with Sony Pictures and toy company POP MART developing an upcoming film adaptation. The two companies have roped in BAFTA-nominated filmmaker Paul King, to serve as the director and producer on the project. 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
20 March,2026 08:33 AM IST | Los Angeles | AgenciesWith an aim to promote community development and sustainable tourism in remote border areas, a refreshment facility managed by local Monpa women was inaugurated at Zemithang in Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday. The Border Brew Cafe has been constructed on a decommissioned Bailey bridge over the river Nyamjang Chu. It was built by the Indian Army in a record time of just 31 days. 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
20 March,2026 08:28 AM IST | Tawang | AgenciesSix people allegedly involved in the sale of adulterated paneer and other dairy products were apprehended and about 3900 kgs of contaminated products were seized following a raid by the Task Force and Food Safety sleuths which conducted a surprise inspection at Ganj Bazar, near Mahankali Temple in Secunderabad on Wednesday. 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
20 March,2026 08:20 AM IST | Hyderabad | AgenciesADVERTISEMENT
-1773981429579_d.png "Representational Image")
