Puducherry's assembly elections reveal a significant presence of wealthy candidates, with 41% declaring assets over Rs 1 crore. Jose Charles Martin leads with over Rs 609 crore, highlighting a stark wealth disparity. This trend shows a notable increase in crorepatis compared to previous elections, with major parties fielding a high proportion of affluent contestants.

BJP leader K Annamalai clarified he chose not to contest the Tamil Nadu assembly elections to focus on campaigning for the party and allies across multiple states. His decision, accepted by the leadership, allows him a broader organizational role, aiming to boost NDA candidates' prospects.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee has warned women voters against sharing bank details with BJP workers, alleging a plot to commit financial fraud and steal benefits like Lakshmi Bhandar. She also criticized the Congress for a lack of coordination on electoral issues and failing to stand with the people during difficult times.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused Congress leaders of endangering Indians in the Middle East with their remarks amid the US-Iran conflict. He stated that Congress's statements risk angering Gulf countries, potentially jeopardizing the safety of lakhs of Keralites working there. Modi emphasized his commitment to their security, highlighting India's strong relations with Gulf governments who consider Indians as family.

Raghav Chadha slammed his removal as AAP's Rajya Sabha deputy leader, terming it a 'coordinated attack.' Meanwhile, Iran denied refusing Pakistan mediation talks amid a US-Israeli strike. India refuted claims of diverted Iranian crude, assuring secure supplies. PM Modi cautioned Congress's Iran conflict remarks could endanger Indians abroad, as Trump reportedly eyes a wider Cabinet reshuffle due to escalating pressures.

Raghav Chadha refuted allegations after being replaced as AAP's Rajya Sabha deputy leader, calling it a «coordinated attack.» He denied claims of not joining opposition walkouts, refusing to sign an impeachment motion, and raising «trivial issues.» Chadha asserted he has consistently raised significant public concerns in Parliament over his four-year tenure.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor expressed skepticism regarding reports of the Centre withdrawing the FCRA Amendment Bill, warning of its potential reintroduction. He stated the opposition will remain vigilant to prevent amendments causing anxiety among religious minorities. Opposition MPs had previously protested the bill, citing concerns for NGOs and minority groups

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor's convoy faced an alleged attack in Kerala's Wandoor on Friday evening. Two vehicles reportedly blocked the road, leading to an assault on Tharoor's gunman and driver when they attempted to clear the obstruction. Police have arrested one of the five identified accused and are pursuing the others.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has strongly criticized the CBSE's new curriculum framework. He labels it a linguistic imposition that favors Hindi over regional languages. Stalin argues this policy undermines federalism and marginalizes non-Hindi-speaking states. He urges the Union government to respect India's linguistic diversity and protect students' rights across all states

In a significant maritime achievement, an Indian LPG tanker has successfully maneuvered through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, flanked by six compatriots that have already reached Indian shores. However, the tension persists as seventeen Indian vessels, two of which are LPG carriers, hold position on the western side, biding their time for a chance to make the journey.

The government plans to reconvene Parliament for a special session to pass women's reservation legislation for 2029. Despite opposition parties questioning the timing and motives, they've largely supported the proposal itself. The NDA is confident due to broad past support and women's growing influence as voters, anticipating passage of key bills.

The Congress party has criticized the BJP's recently announced 'special session', accusing it of violating campaign regulations, particularly regarding the contentious women's quota bill, which they claim is aimed at influencing voters in Tamil Nadu and Bengal. They express concern over proposed adjustments to parliamentary seats, warning it could marginalize smaller states and exacerbate regional inequalities.

Toll payments will go cashless from April 10, with no cash transactions accepted. Vehicles without FASTags can pay via UPI at 1.25 times the normal fee, or face penalties. Exempted individuals must now use special FASTags or annual passes to prevent misuse and reduce arguments at toll plazas, paving the way for signal-free tolling.

After Raghav Chadha's ousting as deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha, AAP leaders launched an intense critique, branding him as overly focused on superficial publicity while neglecting critical party ideologies. His peers challenged his muted stance on urgent political affairs and his conspicuous lack of presence at protests, suggesting a possible intimidation by PM Modi.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited anticipates receiving 20 F404 engines from General Electric by December, with a sixth for the Tejas Mark 1A expected by April-end. HAL is imposing contractual penalties on GE for engine supply delays. Meanwhile, all 34 Tejas jets are set to resume flying from April 8 after software issues were resolved, following a recent grounding incident.

India's naval strength significantly bolstered with the commissioning of INS Aridhaman, its third indigenous nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, enhancing its second-strike capability. The vessel boasts advanced stealth and increased missile capacity. Additionally, the stealth frigate INS Taragiri was inducted, alongside the foundation stone laid for a crucial naval research facility, underscoring India's growing maritime prowess and self-reliance.

Kerala's 2026 elections are a promise war. LDF, UDF, and NDA offer welfare, jobs, and growth. Welfare is now a baseline. Parties compete on scale and delivery. Voters seek sustainability and governance. Promises target all sections. Implementation is the real test amid fiscal challenges. This election is a referendum on competing models.

Jammu and Kashmir braces for a spell of heavy rain, gusty winds, and high-altitude snowfall over the next 36 hours. Srinagar experienced significant road flooding on Friday, prompting authorities to issue advisories for residents and tourists to avoid non-essential travel and exercise caution near water bodies. Erratic weather conditions are expected to persist until April 10.

The Supreme Court ruled that higher rank officials face harsher penalties for service misdeeds due to increased responsibility. Upholding differential punishments for bank employees involved in misappropriating funds, the apex court reinstated a senior manager's sacking, while an officer faced forced retirement and a gunman a salary cut. Courts must exercise restraint in interfering with disciplinary actions.

Kerala braces for a complex election as chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan seeks a rare third term. The traditional LDF-UDF rivalry faces a new challenge from the BJP's expanding footprint. With victories often decided by thousands of votes, this election hinges on micro-shifts and local dynamics, promising a tight, multi-layered contest.