External affairs minister S Jaishankar hailed direct talks with Iran as the most effective way to resume shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran has allowed Indian-flagged vessels to pass, demonstrating the success of diplomacy over potential military action. This approach offers a potential model for other nations grappling with disrupted energy supplies.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah accused Congress of aiding infiltrators in Assam and launched development projects worth over Rs 2,000 crore. He inaugurated healthcare facilities, including a medical college, and highlighted peace accords ending decades of militancy. Shah predicted a massive mandate for BJP, praising the state's improved healthcare and peace initiatives.

The government's PM-PRANAM scheme, designed to cut chemical fertiliser use, has failed to disburse any incentives to states over two and a half years. A parliamentary committee urges an urgent review to simplify eligibility and release due funds, as the scheme's impact window closes.

Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia have approached the Supreme Court after the Delhi High Court Chief Justice rejected their plea to transfer the CBI's challenge to their discharge in the excise policy case. The appeal was to be heard by Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, a decision the AAP leaders deemed lacking impartiality, citing early observations by the judge.

The RSS has called for an immediate end to the Middle East conflict, emphasizing global peace while backing the Indian government's actions as being in the nation's supreme interest. General secretary Dattatreya Hosabale also addressed protests following a leader's killing, stressing peaceful expression and communal harmony. The organization reiterated its stance on Hindutva and its inclusive vision for Indians abroad.

Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia have approached the Supreme Court after the Delhi High Court Chief Justice rejected their plea to transfer the CBI's challenge to their discharge in the excise policy case. The appeal was to be heard by Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, a decision the AAP leaders deemed lacking impartiality, citing early observations by the judge.

Puducherry will vote for its 30 Assembly seats on April 9, 2026, with results announced on May 4. Nearly 9.44 lakh voters are eligible, including 23,033 first-time electors. The Election Commission emphasized free and fair polls, deploying extensive webcasting and model polling stations. The NDA, including AINRC and BJP, has finalized its seat-sharing plan.

By-elections for eight assembly seats across six states, including Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Nagaland, and Tripura, have been announced by the Election Commission. Polling dates are set for April 9 and April 23, with vote counting scheduled for May 4. These elections will fill vacant legislative seats, ensuring full representation in state assemblies.

The Israel-Iran conflict is poised to reshape international air traffic to and from India in the medium term, with Gulf carriers' schedules uncertain. Lufthansa Group is evaluating expanding its India operations, potentially bringing more airlines like Austrian and Eurowings to the country. The group is also enhancing its partnership with Air India through a joint business agreement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla for his composure and impartiality following the rejection of a no-confidence motion against him. Modi commended Birla's adherence to parliamentary decorum and his affirmation that no one is above the rules, reinforcing democratic traditions.

The Election Commission has announced poll dates for West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry, with results on May 4. Meanwhile, Iran stated its war will cease only after assurances against future US-Israel attacks, as fighting intensifies. Rahul Gandhi urged PM Modi to posthumously award the Bharat Ratna to BSP founder Kanshi Ram.

Rahul Gandhi has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to posthumously award the Bharat Ratna to Bahujan Samaj Party founder Kanshi Ram. Gandhi highlighted Kanshi Ram's significant role in social justice and empowering marginalized communities. This call follows consistent demands from Dalit leaders and intellectuals for the highest national honor for the BSP founder.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced a Rs 500 hike in monthly honorariums for priests and muezzins, raising their pay to Rs 2,000. This move, along with the approval of all new applications, was made just before the Election Commission declared poll dates. Banerjee stated the decision recognizes the vital role of religious functionaries in community life.

The Election Commission is set to announce the schedule for assembly elections in West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry today. The upcoming polls are expected to involve fewer phases, particularly in West Bengal, with a substantial increase in central forces deployment. Supplementary voter lists for West Bengal will also be published following the adjudication of 'doubtful' voter cases.

Theme parties are transforming social gatherings into immersive experiences, driven by social media and a desire for participation. Brands are engineering these events to foster deeper engagement, turning passive fandom into collective celebration. This trend taps into psychological needs for connection and belonging, creating shared cultural moments that extend beyond mere entertainment.

The Election Commission is set to announce the schedule for assembly elections in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal today at 4 pm. Ahead of the announcement, opposition leaders have voiced concerns, questioning the poll body's neutrality and the effectiveness of the Model Code of Conduct.