Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday called for a unified global push for peace and dialogue amid the ongoing West Asia conflict, warning of its serious impact on energy supplies, trade routes, and the safety of Indian citizens abroad, reported news agency ANI. Addressing the Rajya Sabha, the Prime Minister emphasised that the conflict, now in its fourth week, has triggered widespread economic and humanitarian concerns. Conflict Disrupts Energy Supplies and Trade Routes PM Modi highlighted that the war has led to a significant disruption in global energy markets, directly affecting India’s supply of essential fuels such as petrol, diesel, gas, and fertilisers, reported ANI. He noted that key maritime routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, have been severely impacted, with several ships stranded due to escalating tensions. This disruption has raised concerns for India’s trade and supply chains, given the region’s strategic importance. Safety of Indians in Gulf a Top Priority The Prime Minister stressed that the safety of Indian nationals remains the government’s foremost priority. He pointed out that nearly one crore Indians live and work across Gulf countries, making the situation particularly sensitive. He also expressed concern over Indian crew members aboard stranded ships in the conflict zone, underlining the risks faced by citizens both on land and at sea. Large-Scale Evacuation Efforts Underway Providing details of government action, PM Modi said that more than 3,75,000 Indians have been safely evacuated since the conflict began. This includes over 1,000 citizens brought back from Iran, many of whom were students pursuing medical education, reported ANI. He assured that the government is working with urgency and sensitivity to ensure the safe return and well-being of all affected individuals. India Engages Key Global and Regional Players The Prime Minister revealed that he has held multiple rounds of discussions with leaders from countries across West Asia, as well as with global powers including the United States. He said India remains in continuous contact with Gulf nations, Iran, and Israel to monitor developments and facilitate safe passage for Indian ships and citizens, reported ANI. PM Modi reiterated that India is actively pursuing diplomatic channels to address the crisis and reduce tensions in the region. Call for United Global Voice for Peace Emphasising the need for collective action, PM Modi urged that a strong and unified message advocating peace and dialogue should emerge from India’s Parliament and resonate globally, reported ANI. He stated that any threat to human life in the ongoing conflict is unacceptable and called on all sides to seek a peaceful resolution at the earliest. Escalating Tensions Impact Global Stability The conflict escalated following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in joint military strikes by the United States and Israel on February 28. In response, Iran launched retaliatory attacks targeting assets linked to both countries across the Gulf region. These developments have disrupted international shipping lanes, destabilised energy markets, and created uncertainty in the global economy. Diplomatic Signals Emerge Amid Crisis Amid the ongoing tensions, reports suggest that backchannel diplomatic efforts may be underway. According to international media, Iran’s leadership has shown willingness to engage in negotiations with the United States, raising hopes for a potential de-escalation. As the situation continues to evolve, India’s focus remains on safeguarding its citizens, stabilising supply chains, and advocating for peace through sustained diplomatic engagement. (With inputs from ANI)
24 March,2026 03:30 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentBihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has been re-elected unopposed as the National President of the Janata Dal United (JD(U)), reaffirming his grip over the party’s leadership ahead of key political developments. No Contest as Nitish Kumar Secures Fourth Term With no other nominations filed, Nitish Kumar was elected unopposed after the withdrawal deadline concluded on Tuesday. This marks his fourth term as the party’s national president. The nomination process had earlier seen JD(U) Working President Sanjay Kumar Jha and several senior leaders backing Kumar’s candidature by filing his nomination papers at the party’s New Delhi office on March 19. The deadline for filing nominations was March 22, and in the absence of any challengers, the scheduled election on March 27 became unnecessary. Leadership Timeline of JD(U) The JD(U), formed in 2003 with the involvement of George Fernandes, initially had him as its first National President. He was later succeeded by Sharad Yadav, who led the party for several terms before internal differences led to a leadership shift. Nitish Kumar first assumed the presidency in 2016 after Sharad Yadav’s exit. He was re-elected in 2019 but stepped down in 2020, appointing RCP Singh as his successor. Subsequently, Rajiv Ranjan Singh took over the role in 2021. However, ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Nitish Kumar reassumed the party’s top position on December 29, 2023. Leadership Continuity Seen as Strategic Move With his latest unopposed election, Nitish Kumar is expected to continue as JD(U) president until 2029. Political observers view this as a strategic move aimed at ensuring organisational stability and consolidating leadership within the party during a crucial political phase. Despite formally taking over the presidency years after the party’s formation, Nitish Kumar has long been regarded as the central figure in JD(U)’s decision-making and political direction. Emerging Role of Nishant Kumar In a significant development, Nitish Kumar’s son, Nishant Kumar, has recently joined the party. He is expected to play a more active role in organisational affairs, sparking discussions about generational transition within the JD(U). Recent Political Developments Nitish Kumar was also recently elected to the Rajya Sabha, further strengthening his position in national politics. His continued leadership of JD(U) is likely to play a key role in shaping the party’s strategy in the coming years. As Bihar and national politics evolve, Nitish Kumar’s reappointment signals continuity, control, and a focus on maintaining the party’s influence in an increasingly competitive political landscape. (With inputs from Agencies)
24 March,2026 03:13 PM IST | Patna | mid-day online correspondentThe government has called an all-party meeting on the West Asia crisis on Wednesday, sources said. This comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address to Parliament on the West Asia situation. The prime minister on Monday said the difficult global conditions caused by the West Asia conflict are likely to persist for a long time and called upon the nation to remain prepared and united, just as it had stood together during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a statement in the Lok Sabha, Modi addressed concerns related to the impact on fuel, fertilisers, national security and other areas in India as well as on its nationals residing in the West Asia region, detailing steps taken by the government to ensure that "ordinary families face as little trouble as possible". He said a unanimous voice on this crisis should go out to the world from India's Parliament. Reaffirming India's unwavering commitment to humanity and peace, the prime minister said dialogue and diplomacy remain the only path to resolution and every Indian effort is directed at de-escalation and cessation of hostilities. The Congress attacked Modi for not condemning the continued US-Israeli air strikes on Iran. It slammed his statement in the Lok Sabha on the West Asia crisis, calling it "a master class in self-boasts, cowardice and partisan dialogue-baazi". In his remarks, the prime minister had said West Asia is important to India as nearly one crore Indians live and work in the Gulf countries. A high number of Indian crew members work in commercial ships that sail in these seas. "Due to these varied reasons, India's concerns are naturally greater. Therefore, it is essential that a unanimous and united voice from India's Parliament on this crisis reaches the world," he had said. 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.
24 March,2026 03:12 PM IST | New Delhi [India] | PTIFollowing a series of honey bee attacks near the Ajanta Caves, the forest department has urged visitors to take precautions and avoid actions that may attract bees, reported the PTI. Issuing an advisory for the visitors, the officials suggested that the tourists should avoid using strong perfumes and making noise during their visits. A recent inspection in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district in Maharashtra covered caves 1 to 26 within the complex. Officials identified three honeycombs—one near Cave 26 and two near Cave 10. Authorities have informed the Archaeological Survey of India and requested steps to control the growth of the combs and safely relocate the bees, according to the PTI. Precautionary guidelines for visitors In light of recent incidents, tourists have been advised to - - Avoid using strong perfumes or fragrances - Refrain from making loud noises near the caves - Follow safety instructions displayed on-site Officials said that the banners highlighting these precautions will be installed shortly. Awareness campaign planned The forest department plans to launch an awareness campaign to educate visitors about safety measures. It will also issue directives to the ASI to ensure coordinated action in preventing further incidents, according to the PTI. The Ajanta Caves, known for their ancient rock-cut architecture and paintings, were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and remain a major tourist attraction in India. Bee swarm attack kills umpire during cricket match Last month, a 65-year-old umpire in Unnao, Uttar Pradesh, had reportedly died, while several players were injured after a swarm of bees attacked them during a cricket match, police had said. A top office-bearer of the Kanpur Cricket Association, which organised the game, confirmed the incident that took place at Sapru Maidan in the Shuklaganj area, according to the PTI. The police officials had earlier stated that Manik Gupta from Kanpur was officiating as the umpire of the cricket match. Soon after the match started, a swarm of bees suddenly attacked the players and officials present on the ground. The sudden outbreak of bees into the ground triggered panic. While there was chaos on the ground, players and spectators ran for cover to save themselves. (with PTI inputs)
24 March,2026 03:01 PM IST | Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar | mid-day online correspondentIndian Railways has revised its rules for the cancellation of confirmed tickets to check misuse of the booking system by touts who indulge in black marketing. The new rules also give more flexibility to passengers for last-minute changes in boarding stations. The revised rules fix refunds for cancellation of tickets on the basis of time left for the departure of the train and also allow for a change in the boarding stations to give more flexibility to passengers. The revised rules will come into effect in phases between April 1 and April 15, 2026. Under the revised system, passengers cancelling tickets more than 72 hours before departure will receive the maximum refund, with only a flat cancellation charge per passenger. For cancellations made between 72 hours and 24 hours, 25 per cent of the fare will be deducted, subject to the minimum charge. The penalty increases for late cancellations. If a ticket is cancelled between 24 hours and 8 hours before departure, 50 per cent of the fare will be deducted, subject to the minimum charge. For cancellations made less than 8 hours before departure, no refund will be permitted. “According to an assessment of ticketing patterns, touts would book extra tickets and cancel unsold ones before train departure times, gaining significant booking amounts back as refunds,” Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said. He added that the decision to tighten the norms for refunds is expected to curb cornering of tickets by touts. Indian Railways has also allowed passengers to change their boarding station up to 30 minutes before the scheduled departure of the train. The change is expected to help passengers in cities with multiple stations, where they can choose to board from a station of their convenience. The provision is expected to be useful in big cities with multiple stations, where passengers can opt to board from any of those stations, Railway Ministry said. At present, the change of boarding point is allowed only before the preparation of the chart. 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.
24 March,2026 02:54 PM IST | New Delhi [India] | IANSMaharashtra has been recently experiencing unstable weather, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting light to heavy rainfall and thundershowers across several districts in state, even as some areas grapple with extreme heat and humidity on Tuesday. The IMD issued a yellow alert for Thane, Mumbai, and Raigad, forecasting hot and humid conditions in isolated pockets. However, districts including Dhule, Nandurbar, Jalgaon, Nasik, Pune, Satara, Sangli, and Hingoli have been issued rain alerts, with light downpour and thundershowers likely. In Marathwada and South Madhya Maharashtra, the IMD has warned of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, moderate rainfall, and gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph in isolated areas. Yellow alerts for rainfall have also been issued for Dharashiv, Latur, Nanded, and Solapur, effective today and tomorrow. The Regional Meteorological Centre, Mumbai, confirmed that isolated thunderstorms with lightning, light to moderate rain, and winds of 40-50 kmph are likely in these districts, as shared on X. Thunderstorm accompanied with lightning, light to moderate rain, gusty winds speed 40-50 kmph very likely to occur at isolated places in the districts of South Madhya Maharashtra and Marathwada. — Regional Meteorological Center,Mumbai (@RMC_Mumbai) March 24, 2026 Rising heat sweeps the state Alongside rainfall, temperatures remain unusually high. Jalgaon and Solapur recorded the state’s highest temperatures at 37.6 degrees Celsius, followed by Jeur at 37.5 degrees Celsius and Satara at 37.2 degrees Celsius. In the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Santacruz hit 36.5 degrees Celsius, while Colaba recorded 34.9 degrees Celsius. Coastal towns like Alibag and Ratnagiri remained relatively moderate at 32.9 degrees Celsius and 33.7 degrees Celsius, respectively. Interior cities are also feeling the heat, with Nashik at 36.3 degrees Celsius, Aurangabad 36.0 degrees Celsius, and Kolhapur 36.3 degrees Celsius. Harnaí recorded a sharp departure from normal, standing 7.3 degrees Celsius above average, making it one of the state’s unusually warm locations. Coastal humidity remains high, interiors stay dry Humidity levels are high along the coast, with Dahanu at 69 per cent and Ratnagiri at 61 per cent, while interior regions like Aurangabad and Parbhani experience drier conditions at 25 per cent and 23 per cent, respectively. Overall, Maharashtra is witnessing a mix of intense heat in interiors and hot, humid conditions along the coast, underscoring the double challenge of rising temperatures and localized rain threats.
24 March,2026 02:36 PM IST | MumbaiThe Indian rupee started Tuesday’s trading at 93.66 per US dollar before slipping to 93.73, down 20 paise from Monday’s close. The local unit had hit a record low of 93.98 against the greenback in the previous session, the PTI reported. Analysts attributed the weakness to rising crude oil prices and ongoing tensions in West Asia. Why exactly is Rupee crashing? Crude oil and FII outflows weigh heavily on rupee. Rising global crude oil prices, a key concern for India as a net importer, added further pressure on the currency. The more the demand for USD, the more rupee crashes. Brent crude futures were trading at USD 103.9 per barrel. Analysts warn that sustained high oil prices may increase inflation and widen India’s import bill, negatively affecting growth projections, the news agency reported. Heavy foreign institutional investor (FII) outflows also contributed to the rupee’s weakness, with equities sold worth Rs 10,414 crore on Monday as per exchange data. Meanwhile, domestic markets showed resilience, with the Sensex rising 829 points to 73,525 and the Nifty up 234 points to 22,747 in the morning session. US-Iran talks create mixed signals The rupee’s movement followed US President Donald Trump’s announcement that the United States had held “productive conversations” with Iran and would pause planned strikes on Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for five days. Trump claimed Iran was eager to negotiate and had additional time to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. However, Iran denied that any formal talks had taken place. Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s parliamentary speaker, called the reports “fake news,” creating uncertainty that kept crude oil prices elevated and pressured the rupee. Analysts caution on near-term trends Experts expect the rupee to trade in a weak range of 93.25–94.25 until further clarity emerges on geopolitical tensions and energy prices. Jateen Trivedi, VP Research at LKP Securities, said currency weakness is likely to persist as long as the macroeconomic backdrop remains fragile as per IANS reports. Anil Kumar Bhansali from Finrex Treasury Advisors noted that the rupee briefly recovered after Trump’s announcement but remains vulnerable due to oil price pressures and market uncertainty as per PTI. (With PTI and IANS Inputs)
24 March,2026 02:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentDelhi Chief Minister and Finance Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday presented the national capital’s Budget for the financial year 2026-27, announcing a total outlay of Rs 1,03,700 crore. Highlighting a vision of rapid development, Gupta described the financial plan as a “green budget” aimed at boosting infrastructure, improving civic amenities, and ensuring sustainable urban growth, reported news agency PTI. Budget Emphasises ‘Triple Engine’ Growth Model Presenting the budget in the Assembly, Gupta said Delhi is witnessing accelerated progress under a “triple engine” governance model. She stressed that the city is undergoing a transition phase and noted that past policies, particularly a reliance on subsidies, had impacted revenue growth between 2018 and 2020, reported PTI. The budget estimates tax revenues at Rs 74,000 crore, reflecting a strong fiscal outlook. Gupta also pointed out that Delhi continues to rank among the top states in terms of per capita income, placing third nationally, reported PTI. Major Allocations for Infrastructure and Urban Development A significant portion of the budget has been directed towards infrastructure development. The Public Works Department (PWD) has been allocated Rs 5,921 crore, while Rs 7,887 crore has been earmarked for urban development and housing projects, reported PTI. “Our aim is safe roads, climate corridors, and seamless connectivity,” Gupta said, outlining the government’s infrastructure priorities. Additionally, Rs 1,352 crore has been allocated for developing dust-free roads, including recarpeting 750 kilometres of roads across the city, reported PTI. Focus on Power, Connectivity and Industrial Growth The government has allocated Rs 3,942 crore to the power sector, with a specific focus on removing overhead electrical wiring. A separate Rs 200 crore provision has been made for this initiative to enhance safety and aesthetics. In a push to industrial development, Rs 160 crore has been earmarked for upgrading industrial areas, marking the first such allocation for non-conforming zones. The move is expected to boost economic activity and improve infrastructure in these regions, reported PTI. Investments in Water Supply and Civic Infrastructure Addressing water-related challenges, Gupta announced a substantial allocation of Rs 9,000 crore to the Delhi Jal Board for water supply and sewage management projects. Additionally, Rs 475 crore has been set aside for the Chandrawal water treatment plant to ensure reliable water access for residents, reported PTI. The budget also includes Rs 454 crore for the Najafgarh drain project, aimed at improving drainage and reducing flooding risks in vulnerable areas. Development Push for Key Areas and Rural Delhi The Chief Minister announced Rs 300 crore for the development of the trans-Yamuna region and Rs 787 crore for the Delhi Gram Vikas Board to strengthen rural infrastructure. Further, Rs 11,666 crore has been allocated to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to support civic services, reported PTI. Transport and Urban Projects Get Boost Among key transport projects, Rs 151 crore has been allocated for extending the Modi Mill flyover up to the Kalkaji and Savitri Cinema intersection, part of a larger project estimated at Rs Rs 371 crore. The government also plans to construct an integrated secretariat and residential complex for its employees, reported PTI. Strengthening Fire Safety After Recent Incidents In response to recent fire incidents, including one in Palam, Gupta announced Rs 674 crore to strengthen Delhi’s firefighting infrastructure. She highlighted challenges posed by congested and unauthorised colonies, where narrow lanes often hinder emergency response. Focus on Inclusive and Sustainable Growth Overall, the 2026-27 budget reflects a strong emphasis on infrastructure, sustainability, and improved urban living standards. With major investments across sectors such as roads, water, power, and housing, the Delhi government aims to position the capital as a modern, resilient, and future-ready city. (With inputs from PTI)
24 March,2026 02:07 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentA district court in Goa's Mapusa on Tuesday granted bail to Ajay Gupta, co-owner of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub, where a devastating fire in December last year claimed 25 lives, reported the ANI. Gupta had been arrested in New Delhi over three months ago before securing bail, his counsel confirmed. The tragic blaze occurred on December 6 at the nightclub in Goa, resulting in 25 fatalities and leaving several others injured. The incident triggered widespread outrage and prompted a detailed investigation into safety lapses. Co-owners and Allegations Gupta co-owns the establishment along with Gaurav Luthra and Saurabh Luthra. Authorities initiated criminal proceedings against the owners, citing alleged negligence and violations of mandatory fire safety norms. According to police, a fireworks event was conducted at the venue without adequate fire safety equipment. It was also alleged that the premises lacked proper emergency exits on key floors, despite organisers being aware of the risks, as per the ANI. The case According to the ANI, the Goa Police registered a case on December 7 at the Arpora-Anjuna police station in North Goa. Charges were filed under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including provisions related to negligence, endangering life, and acts carried out with common intention. In January, the Goa government dismissed Roshan Redkar and Raghuvir Bagkar from service, citing “persistent negligence” in connection with the incident. The Directorate of Panchayats, relying on findings from a magisterial inquiry, stated that irregularities at the premises were either overlooked or tacitly approved during official meetings. Irregularities in club operations The inquiry report revealed that the Birch establishment initially operated from a temporary structure and was later converted into a nightclub without the necessary approvals, including a conversion sanad and sanctioned building plans, according to the ANI. The officials had earlier described the lapses as a serious breach of public trust, raising concerns over accountability among those responsible for oversight. (with ANI inputs)
24 March,2026 01:57 PM IST | Panaji | mid-day online correspondentFormer Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has strongly criticised the country’s judiciary, accusing it of subjecting his wife, Bushra Bibi, to “inhumane treatment” during her imprisonment. The remarks, conveyed through his son, have intensified political tensions amid ongoing legal battles involving the former leader, reported IANS. Message from Jail Raises Serious Allegations The statement was shared by Imran Khan’s son, Kasim Khan, on social media platform X. According to Kasim, he spoke with his father on March 21, during which the jailed leader asked him to deliver a message to the public, reported IANS. In the message, Imran Khan accused members of the judiciary of compromising their integrity and acting with bias. He alleged that the courts were targeting his wife in an attempt to exert pressure on him, claiming that despite repeated legal appeals, justice had not been served. Claims of Isolation and Harsh Prison Conditions Imran Khan further alleged that Bushra Bibi has been kept in prolonged isolation, with extremely limited contact. He claimed she spends nearly all her time alone and is allowed minimal interaction, including a brief weekly meeting with him that is not always granted, reported IANS. Describing the situation as unjust and unacceptable, the former Prime Minister questioned how such treatment could be permitted, particularly towards a woman, and framed the issue as both a legal and moral concern. Imran Khan Criticises Judiciary’s Role In his remarks, Imran Khan accused the judiciary of failing in its responsibility to uphold justice. He alleged that certain judges had abandoned ethical standards and were acting under external influence or personal interests, reported IANS. He also stated that targeting family members to exert pressure was against societal and moral principles, adding that such actions undermine public trust in judicial institutions. Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi Lodged in Adiala Jail Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi have been in custody since August 2023 and are currently lodged at Adiala Jail, a high-security facility in Rawalpindi. Their detention has remained a focal point of political debate in Pakistan, with supporters alleging unfair treatment and the government denying any wrongdoing, reported IANS. Medical Concerns Add to Controversy Meanwhile, concerns over Imran Khan’s health have also surfaced. He recently underwent a medical procedure at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, where he received an anti-VEGF intravitreal injection as part of treatment for an eye condition known as Central Retinal Vein Occlusion, reported IANS. Hospital authorities stated that the procedure was completed successfully and that he was stable before being shifted back to jail. PTI Demands Better Medical Access and Transparency Leaders from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), including Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram, have raised concerns about the lack of transparency in Khan’s treatment. The party has demanded that he be shifted to Shifa International Hospital for comprehensive medical evaluation and allowed access to personal physicians, reported IANS. PTI has also alleged that Khan’s family has not been adequately involved in medical decisions, a claim the government has rejected. Ongoing Political Tensions in Pakistan The developments come amid continued political friction in Pakistan, with the opposition accusing the government of targeting Imran Khan through legal and administrative measures. The government, however, maintains that all actions are being carried out within the framework of the law. (With inputs from IANS)
24 March,2026 01:39 PM IST | Islamabad | mid-day online correspondentDefence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday chaired a high-level meeting to review India’s security environment and defence preparedness in light of rapidly evolving global and regional developments, particularly the ongoing conflict in West Asia, reported news agency ANI. Top military leadership participates in high-level review The crucial meeting was attended by senior defence and military officials, including Chief of Defence Staff Anil Chauhan, Chief of Air Staff Amar Preet Singh, Chief of Army Staff Upendra Dwivedi, and Chief of Naval Staff Dinesh K Tripathi, reported ANI. Also present was Defence Research and Development Organisation Chairman Samir Kamat, along with other senior officials from the defence establishment. The discussions focused on assessing India’s readiness across all three armed forces and reviewing strategic contingencies in view of the current geopolitical tensions. West Asia conflict enters fourth week, raises global concerns The review comes as the West Asia conflict enters its fourth week, significantly impacting global trade routes, particularly through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The disruption has heightened concerns over energy supplies and international trade stability, reported ANI. The crisis escalated after the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in joint military strikes conducted by the United States and Israel on February 28. The incident triggered a sharp escalation in hostilities across the region. Retaliatory strikes disrupt energy markets and trade routes In response, Iran launched retaliatory attacks targeting Israeli and US-linked assets across several Gulf nations. These developments have led to increased instability in key maritime corridors, affecting global oil shipments and creating volatility in international energy markets. The disruption in shipping lanes, especially through the Strait of Hormuz, has raised alarm for countries like India that rely heavily on energy imports from the region. PM Modi to address Rajya Sabha on energy security Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to address the Rajya Sabha on the ongoing situation, focusing on India’s energy security and preparedness to deal with potential disruptions, reported ANI. A day earlier, the Prime Minister briefed the Lok Sabha, describing the situation in West Asia as “worrisome” and highlighting its wide-ranging impact on the global economy and human lives, reported ANI. Conflict poses economic, security and humanitarian challenges In his address, PM Modi underlined that the ongoing conflict presents unprecedented challenges for India, spanning economic concerns, national security risks, and humanitarian issues. He emphasised that a significant portion of India’s crude oil and gas requirements is sourced from the conflict-affected region, reported ANI. The Prime Minister also noted that West Asia serves as a critical trade route for India’s commerce with other parts of the world, making stability in the region vital for the country’s economic interests. Opposition criticises government’s response Opposition parties, however, criticised the government’s handling of the situation, calling the Prime Minister’s address more rhetorical than substantive. They questioned whether sufficient proactive measures have been taken to safeguard India’s interests amid the escalating crisis. As geopolitical tensions continue to intensify, India’s defence and strategic leadership remain on high alert, closely monitoring developments and preparing for any potential fallout that could impact national security and economic stability. (With inputs from ANI)
24 March,2026 01:30 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
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