To promote sustainability along national highways, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has taken the first step towards constructing “Bee Corridors” on highways aimed at conserving honeybees and enhancing biodiversity. In Chhattisgarh, the first such corridor will be developed on the NH-53 Arang–Saraipali stretch.

Project officials said the initiative will help increase biodiversity along the highway. Various species of flowering plants and trees will be planted along highway corridors to provide a continuous supply of nectar and pollen for honeybees, supporting their survival and reproduction throughout the year. The project is part of the Centre’s broader efforts to integrate ecological considerations into infrastructure development.

In later phases, similar corridors are expected to be developed along NH-30 from Raipur to Dhamtari and NH-130 from Katghora to Patharapali. NHAI has already issued orders for the initiative, and its Raipur offices have begun preparatory work.

Officials said project leaders from the Dhamtari, Abhanpur, Raipur and Bilaspur divisions will soon meet to finalise the detailed plans for the project.

The project will create green belts along highways using indigenous flowering species such as Karanj, Mahua, Palash, Bottlebrush and Jamun. These species will ensure a prolonged flowering season, providing a consistent food source for pollinators.

The plan also includes the mixed plantation of shrubs, herbs and grasses. In addition, safe structures and natural habitats will be created along the corridors to provide shelter for bees.

The initiative is expected to enhance pollination in nearby areas, thereby supporting agriculture and horticulture by improving crop productivity.

As part of its Green Highways strategy for 2026–27, NHAI has pledged to plant 40 lakh saplings across the country, including nearly 2 lakh in Chhattisgarh. Under this initiative, at least three Bee Corridors are planned in the state.

However, some major highway projects in the state are facing delays. Construction of the Raipur–Visakhapatnam Expressway and the Raipur–Durg Bypass has been underway since July 2023.

The expressway is targeted for completion by September 2026, while the bypass is expected to be completed by June 2026. Both projects are currently running approximately six months behind schedule.

Pradeep Kumar Lal, Regional Officer of NHAI, said the authority’s objective is not only to build roads but also to develop environmentally sustainable transport corridors.

He added that planting indigenous trees along highways would help strengthen ecosystems and support local agriculture by improving pollination.

Even as the Iran war continues unabated, North Korea Saturday fired no less than 10 ballistic missiles, reported Reuters, while the US military is undertaking a joint exercise with ally South Korea.

Reports also said that earlier, Japan had also reported a North Korean projectile, most likely a ballistic missile, to have taken flight and fallen into the sea outside Tokyo’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Why it matters:

The launches matter since the time is suspect.

· While the Iran war is on, the timing of the launches couldn’t have been more irritating for the Americans, especially President Donald Trump. It seems Kim Jong-un is deliberately needling Trump.

· Moreover, Kim Jong-un has fired the same kind of missiles that the US is building its ‘Golden Dome’ defence system against and which initiative Japan is most likely to join.

Japanese publication Yomiuri has suggested that Japan Prime Minister Takaichi would discuss joining the initiative during her Washington visit slated from March 19.

Pete Hegseth, chief of Pentagon, had last year billed the system as one which could save America from any foe.

The context:

· Trump has been trying to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un for quite sometime now. Last they met was 2019. It is expected that Trump might want allies to set up a meet with Kim while on his Asia tour.

· South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok met US prez Trump and discussed if North Korean Kim could be wooed to stop expanding his arsenal and quit his nuclear dreams. This was reported by Yonhap news agency.

Golden Quote:

· “President Trump said he was curious if Kim [Jong-un] wants to talk to the US or him and asked about my views on that,” Kim was quoted as saying by Yonhap.

State of Play:

· There have been numerous reports that Trump wants to meet Kim Jong-un on Chinese soil in Summit-level talks.

· The North Korean premier summed up the efforts: “Meeting [Kim Jong-un] would be good. It’s really good to meet. But it could happen when we go to China this time, or it might not, or it could even be later, couldn’t it?”

Big Picture:

· Trump met Kim Jong-un twice during his first presidency: 2018 and 2019. Then there was a meeting over the DMZ or the demilitarized zone, but that too remained a photo-op. So, there have been no fruits to America’s outreach to Pyongyang.

· But, Trump’s rapport with Kim seems to have survived and that is what America is eyeing, especially to put it on full display to China on Chinese soil. America wants to signal to China that it can reach out to its most trusted ally and client and disrupt its sphere of influence. So, meeting with Kim Jong-un seems like leveraging Pyongyang against China.

Reading the fine print:

· The possibility of Trump-Kim meeting has been prepared by the Iran war.

· The Golden Dome system is preparing to blunt Chinese edge on the front of hypersonic projectiles. China has DF-17, which flied at Mach 5 to 10 with a range of 1800+ kilometers. No interceptor so far can stop it accurately. The Golden Dome is being built to intercept precisely these kinds of projectiles. It is Japan that will be the backbone of this system since the American system have been depleted by its onslaught on Iran, with Tokyo’s defence coffers boosted to 9 trillion yuan.

Senior Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday raised a direct question in Parliament regarding the government’s failure to fulfil its 2021 promise to provide farmers with a legally guaranteed Minimum Support Price (MSP) based on the C2+50% formula. Gandhi accused the government of evading a clear response.

In a post on X, Gandhi said he had asked why the commitment to implement a legal MSP at C2+50% had not yet been honoured.

He alleged that the government sidestepped the question and reiterated its current MSP policy instead. Furthermore, Gandhi claimed the government admitted to pressuring states to withdraw additional MSP bonuses, justifying the move vaguely in the name of “national priorities.”

Gandhi also raised concerns about ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, particularly regarding the reduction of “non-trade barriers.”

He questioned whether such measures might undermine the MSP framework and public procurement processes that benefit farmers. According to him, the government avoided addressing these concerns as well.

Accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government of neglecting farmers’ interests and prioritising other agendas, Gandhi said, “The Modi government does not want to fulfil its promise to farmers and is willing to sacrifice Indian agriculture for other interests.”

He vowed that the Congress party would continue advocating for farmers’ rights and a legal MSP guarantee both inside and outside Parliament.

The demand for a legally guaranteed MSP based on the C2+50% formula, recommended by the National Commission on Farmers led by agricultural scientist M. S. Swaminathan, has been a long-standing demand of farmer groups.

The formula proposes that the MSP be fixed at least 50 per cent above the comprehensive cost of production (C2), which includes all expenses such as land rent and interest on capital.

The issue gained significant attention during the widespread protests against the three farm laws enacted in 2020. The laws were repealed in 2021 after prolonged demonstrations by farmers.

Farmer organisations continue to demand a statutory guarantee for MSP to ensure stable incomes for cultivators across the country.

Three factory workers died of asphyxia while cleaning a sludge tank in
a textile unit in the industrial area in Balotra town of Rajasthan on
Friday.

The trio descended 10 to 12 feet down the sludge tank of the Laljiwala
Mill for cleaning but fell unconscious therein. Sensing trouble,
fellow workers approached the tank after a while, but found them
unconscious.

They were rushed to a nearby private hospital where doctors declared them dead.

The deceased are identified as Gumana Ram (25), Vishambhar Tiwari (54)
and Shravan (32), police sources said.

The victims climbed down the tank without proper safety gears, which
they were supposed to wear, the sources said.

The police have initiated a probe into the incident, they said.

Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot expressed shock and grief over the
deaths in tragic circumstances. He said it is sad to hear that manual
scavenging is not yet to be fully abolished.

He called on the state government to ensure relief and adequate
compensation to next of kins to the three deceased.

Kim Jong Un Memes: As tensions in the Middle East grow after military strikes involving the United States, Israel and Iran, the internet has done what it does best by turning global anxiety into memes.

But the biggest surprise? Unexpected online star of these viral jokes is none other than Kim Jong Un.

Across platforms like X, Instagram, Reddit, social media users have flooded timelines with humorous posts featuring the North Korean leader. Memes show him watching the global drama from afar.

In many viral images, Kim is looking through binoculars or staring at a screen, as if carefully observing the chaos unfolding across the Middle East.

‘FOMO’ jokes flood social media

The internet’s favourite punchline? That Kim might be feeling left out.

Many memes jokingly suggest the North Korean leader has ‘FOMO’, the fear of missing out, as the conflict dominates global headlines.

pic.twitter.com/vovIkkWA9P

— Shitpost Reels (@ShitpostReels) March 5, 2026

Poor Kim Jong Un
They don’t allow him to play.
Made by me using @grok @elonmusk @cb_doge #AI #IA #Meme #fun #humor pic.twitter.com/g7NskYNxZV

— Georgina Pizarro Gomez (gepigom2883) (@gepigom28832) March 5, 2026

“That one looks like missile right?”
“No sir, it’s a bird.” pic.twitter.com/cm166U3NUh

— Ayushi (@ShutupAyushiii) March 5, 2026

“Sir, still no missiles headed our direction”

“Refresh it again” pic.twitter.com/DLY81nWkXp

— First Of His Name (@SoupLorrd) March 2, 2026

Kim Jong Un when one missile mistakenly lands in North Korea pic.twitter.com/xnoFSKTyl0

— Katatumba (@ninyeKatatumba) March 2, 2026

Everyone is scared of Kim Jong Un expect his tailor pic.twitter.com/Edc33WKbC4

— TOIS (@sammie_boi20) March 1, 2026

“Did he just say launch, it was was lunch sir, lets check well” pic.twitter.com/bi2dBHdZ8r

— Kl@xon (@lonelylonerk) March 2, 2026

when you have the best toys but no one calls you to play the game pic.twitter.com/fu4WRkJvC9

— Godman Chikna (@Madan_Chikna) February 28, 2026

Recent Developments: Missile launch raises concerns

Behind the jokes, however, there was a serious development.

According to the military of South Korea, North Korea launched about ten unidentified ballistic missiles toward the Sea of Japan, also known as the East Sea.

South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said they detected the missiles around 1:20 pm from the Sunan area near Pyongyang.

The projectiles reportedly flew toward waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan.

The missile launch came after Pyongyang warned of “terrible consequences” over ongoing annual military exercises conducted by South Korea and the United States.

Seoul confirmed the launch in a brief statement but did not immediately provide details about the missiles or their range.

Japan’s coast guard also acknowledged the launch shortly afterwards. Citing information from the defence ministry, officials said a possible ballistic missile had been fired from North Korea around 1:30 pm local time.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today launched a scathing attack on the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government in West Bengal, stressing that the end of the ruthless government in Bengal is inevitable now. He said, “Change in Bengal is now written on the walls and etched in the hearts of Bengal’s people as well.”

PM Modi asserted that the countdown has begun for those who brought jungle raj to Bengal, and the day is not far when the rule of law will return to Bengal. “Whoever breaks the law will not be spared, and the atrocities of TMC will not be spared. No matter how much this ruthless government tries now, it will not be able to stop this storm of change. Maa Durga is with BJP-NDA…,” said PM Modi.

#WATCH | Kolkata, West Bengal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, “Change in Bengal is now written on the walls and etched in the hearts of Bengal’s people as well. Now, the end of the ruthless government from Bengal is inevitable…”

(Source: ANI/DD News) pic.twitter.com/jouaxY1e91

— ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2026

While addressing the massive public rally at the Brigade Ground in Kolkata, PM Modi thanked the people in Bengali.

Kolkata, West Bengal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked the people in Bengali pic.twitter.com/koOdo3zoO8

— IANS (@ians_india) March 14, 2026

Noting the historical significance of the Brigade Ground, the Prime Minister said, “The history of Brigade Parade Ground bears witness that whenever Bengal shows the country the way, this Brigade ground becomes the voice of Bengal. The voice that rose from this field against the English regime turned into a revolution in Hindustan. Its result was that the atrocities and plunder of the English came to an end. Today once again, the bugle of the revolution for a new Bengal has sounded from Brigade Ground…”

#WATCH | Kolkata, West Bengal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, “Your enthusiasm, your fervour, is telling us what Bengal is thinking, what is brewing in Bengal’s mind. The history of Brigade Parade Ground bears witness that whenever Bengal shows the country the way, this… pic.twitter.com/RbOX2uO5wE

— ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2026

During his address, PM Modi also accused the TMC government of pulling out all its weapons to stop this gathering. He said, “To prevent you all from coming, they had bridges closed, vehicles stopped, traffic jammed, BJP flags uprooted, and posters torn down. But the ruthless government, take a clear look: you could not stop today’s sea of people…”

#WATCH | Kolkata, West Bengal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, “Even today, the ruthless government has pulled out all its weapons to stop this gathering. To prevent you all from coming, they had bridges closed, vehicles stopped, traffic jammed, BJP flags uprooted, and posters… pic.twitter.com/bDmhw7HE9x

— ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2026

Earlier today, PM Modi unveiled connectivity projects worth Rs 18,680 crore in the state, saying a new chapter of India’s development was being written from the state. PM also laid the foundation stone for five sections of the 231 km-long four-lane Kharagpur-Moregram economic corridor, which will reduce the distance by around 120 km and save nearly seven to eight hours. The road, which is part of the economic corridor between Kharagpur and Siliguri, will pass through Paschim Medinipur, Bankura, Hooghly, Purba Bardhaman, Birbhum and Murshidabad districts, officials said.

Kolkata, West Bengal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, “Today, from the land of Kolkata, a new chapter in the development of West Bengal and Eastern India is being written. Foundations were laid and inaugurations held for more than rupees 18,000 crore related to road, rail, and… pic.twitter.com/cBkJwrSdSH

— IANS (@ians_india) March 14, 2026

Just when everything seemed ready for a high-profile landing, an unexpected ‘VIP’ stole the spotlight. In a bizarre moment that left officials embarrassed and internet amused, a bull casually walked into restricted helipad area moments before Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was scheduled to arrive. (Also Read: Akhilesh Yadav mocks Nitish Kumar’s Rajya Sabha shift)

The strange security lapse happened in Begusarai. And within minutes the video of the incident began circulating online.

Bull walks into restricted helipad area

The incident took place in the Barauni Industrial Area, where a temporary helipad had been set up inside the Bihar Industrial Area Development Authority (BIADA) campus for the chief minister’s visit.

Situation from the Helipad in Begusarai, Bihar’s CM is arriving there. pic.twitter.com/kzbiI1uc6v

— War & Gore (@Goreunit) March 14, 2026

Security arrangements were reportedly tight ahead of Kumar’s programme. Barricades had been placed and police personnel were stationed across the venue to ensure the landing area remained completely restricted.

But just minutes before the helicopter was expected to arrive, a bull somehow slipped through the barricades and entered the helipad zone. It was a place that should have been fully sealed off under security protocol.

Panic among security personnel

A video that quickly went viral shows the bull running freely across the helipad. The unexpected sight left security personnel scrambling.

Some policemen were seen chasing animal while others looked visibly startled as they tried to clear landing area. For a brief moment, that scene looked more like chaotic village chase than carefully guarded VIP security zone.

The bull eventually moved away after being chased out by officials.

Landing happened without disruption

Despite the surprising breach, officials managed to clear the helipad before the helicopter carrying Chief Minister Nitish Kumar arrived.

Authorities ensured the landing went ahead smoothly, and the chief minister’s programme continued without any disruption.

Still, the brief incident raised serious questions about how an animal managed to enter high-security area just minutes before VIP landing.

A man who had been avoiding the police for years has finally been caught in Delhi. The Crime Branch of the Delhi Police arrested a Nigerian national who was declared a Proclaimed Offender in a narcotics case registered in Chandigarh.

The accused, identified as Chuks, was caught near Tilak Nagar Metro Station on Saturday after police received secret information about his movement in the area.

Also Read: No bail for Delhi riots poster boy Shahrukh Pathan who pointed a revolver at cop

Arrest after secret tip-off

According to police officials, the WR-II team of the Crime Branch had been tracking the accused for some time. Officers received specific intelligence that Chuks would visit the Tilak Nagar area to meet one of his contacts.

Acting quickly, the police team laid a trap near Tilak Nagar Metro Station. When the suspect arrived, officers moved in to catch him.

Police said the accused tried to run away when he realised the officers were closing in. However, the team chased him down and managed to overpower him before he could escape.

Declared proclaimed offender in NDPS case

Investigators revealed that Chuks had already been declared Proclaimed Offender in case registered in 2021 at Industrial Area Police Station in Chandigarh under the NDPS Act (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act).

Being declared Proclaimed Offender means the person has failed to appear before court and is officially listed as absconding from the law.

For the past few years, authorities had been trying to locate him. But he managed to stay out of reach until the latest operation by the Crime Branch.

From clothes business to drug supply

During questioning, Chuks reportedly told investigators that he came to India in 2015 on a tourist visa.

Initially, he ran a small clothing business in the Tilak Nagar area. However, police say that financial problems pushed him toward illegal activities.

According to the interrogation details, he later began supplying drugs and allegedly built a network that transported narcotic substances from Delhi to Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh.

Links to earlier drug cases

Police officials also revealed that accused had been arrested earlier in cases related to the NDPS Act in both Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh.

Investigators believe he may have been part of larger supply chain involved in drug distribution across multiple states.

The police are now questioning him further to identify his associates and trace wider network linked to the operation.

Authorities say more arrests could follow as the investigation moves forward. Police teams are working to gather additional evidence and track down people who may have worked with the accused.

The latest US airstrikes on Iran’s Kharg Island have drawn attention to a small patch of land in the Persian Gulf that plays an outsized role in the global oil trade.

Kharg Island is not just another military location. It is the main outlet for Iran’s crude exports.

Much of the country’s oil is stored and loaded at terminals on the island before tankers carry it to international markets.

Why it matters: Kharg Island handles the bulk of Iran’s crude exports. Any disruption there could quickly affect the country’s oil revenues and ripple through global energy markets.

• The US strike targeted military facilities on the island but avoided energy infrastructure.
• US President Donald Trump said American forces had destroyed military targets on Kharg Island but deliberately spared the oil facilities.
• “The United States Central Command executed one of the most powerful bombing raids in the History of the Middle East, and totally obliterated every MILITARY target in Iran’s crown jewel, Kharg Island,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social.
• He added that oil infrastructure was not targeted “for reasons of decency.”

The big picture: Kharg Island lies about 20 miles off Iran’s southern coast in the Persian Gulf.

• Over decades, it has grown into the country’s primary oil export terminal.
• Large storage tanks cover much of the island. Pipelines bring crude from mainland oil fields, and tankers wait offshore to load shipments bound for buyers around the world.
• For Iran, the island functions as a central export gate. Damage to its facilities could sharply reduce the country’s ability to ship oil abroad.

State of play: The US strikes appear to have targeted military facilities on Kharg Island rather than the oil terminals.

• Early reports indicate the attacks hit sites linked to missile storage and naval activity in the Gulf. These installations are seen as part of Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping in the region.
• The attack comes as the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran enters its third week, with tensions across the region continuing to build.
• Energy markets have already started to react. Oil prices have been climbing in recent days as markets grow nervous that the fighting could begin to hit oil supplies from the Gulf.

Between the lines: Kharg Island lies close to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest oil routes.

• Tankers loading crude at the island must pass through this narrow channel before heading out toward global markets.
• That makes the island strategically sensitive. Any escalation around Kharg could quickly spill into the Strait of Hormuz.
• Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has warned that oil shipments through the strait could be restricted during the conflict.
• Even the possibility of that has already made tanker operators more cautious about entering the region.

For now, the island’s oil terminals remain intact. But once fighting reaches a place like Kharg Island, energy markets and governments across the world start watching closely.

Thousands of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supporters have poured into Kolkata since Saturday morning ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s much-anticipated rally at the iconic Brigade Parade Ground.

Today the soil of West Bengal is witnessing a surge of people. Brigade is set to become the ground where Poriborton will echo. #BrigadeCholo #Brigade4Poriborton pic.twitter.com/RrSilhpZr5

— BJP West Bengal (@BJP4Bengal) March 14, 2026

Even before the Prime Minister’s arrival, the ground is overflowing, with an estimated 10 lakh people gathering to witness the historic event. The city has transformed into a vibrant sea of saffron.

Women have come to Brigade Rally from various parts of West Bengal and are most enthusiastic about Poriborton as they want safety and dignity in their daily lives. Only a BJP Government in West Bengal can ensure that. #Brigade4Poriborton pic.twitter.com/wPEUPMNd6J

— BJP West Bengal (@BJP4Bengal) March 14, 2026

Organised by the BJP, this mega-event will also serve as the culmination of the party’s statewide ‘Parivartan Yatra’ campaign ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.

এই জনসমুদ্র শুধু ভিড় নয়, এটা মানুষের জমে থাকা আশা, কষ্ট আর পরিবর্তনের ডাক ! #BrigadeCholo #Brigade4Poriborton pic.twitter.com/c6gQLjd6ZD

— BJP West Bengal (@BJP4Bengal) March 14, 2026

Security arrangements have been significantly heightened across key locations, including the RCTC ground, to manage the massive turnout and ensure the event proceeds smoothly.

সেজে উঠেছে ব্রিগেডের ময়দান। পরিবর্তনের লক্ষ্যে পশ্চিমবঙ্গবাসীর উচ্ছ্বাস আজ তুঙ্গে – গেরুয়া ঝড় উঠবে এবার বঙ্গে। ঐতিহাসিক মুহূর্তের সাক্ষী হতে ব্রিগেডের ময়দানে যোগ দিন আপনিও। #BrigadeCholo #Brigade4Poriborton pic.twitter.com/QnniZCcI7Q

— BJP West Bengal (@BJP4Bengal) March 14, 2026

The rally is scheduled for the afternoon, during which PM Modi is set to inaugurate development projects worth approximately Rs 18,680 crore, marking his first visit to West Bengal after the publication of the post-SIR electoral rolls on February 28.

Today is a monumental day for West Bengal!

PM @narendramodi ji is in Kolkata to gift the state projects worth ₹18,680 Crore.

The highlight? A massive ₹16,990 Crore boost for National Highways:
231-km Kharagpur-Morgram Economic Corridor.
⏳ Travel time cut by 8 hours (100+… pic.twitter.com/op18E3bjZf

— BJP West Bengal (@BJP4Bengal) March 14, 2026

Speaking ahead of the rally, BJP leader Dilip Ghosh stated, “This event is expected to draw large crowds and energise BJP workers and supporters across Bengal. The change is inevitable, and the BJP will rise to power in Bengal.”

A New Era for West Bengal’s Railways! ✨

Today at the Brigade Parade Ground, PM @narendramodi ji delivers a massive gift to the people of West Bengal. From the Purulia–Anand Vihar Express to the stunning transformation of our Amrit Bharat Stations, the face of West Bengal’s… pic.twitter.com/r0kKTVER1R

— BJP West Bengal (@BJP4Bengal) March 14, 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday accused the Indian National Congress of attempting to create panic among the public for political gains at a time when war-like conditions are prevailing in several parts of the world.

Addressing a gathering in Assam, Modi alleged that the opposition party was trying to exploit the situation instead of acting responsibly. “Congress is making every attempt to create panic within the country, hoping that the nation gets entangled in difficulties so that they can later heap endless abuse upon Modi,” the Prime Minister said.

Speaking at a public event in Assam, the Prime Minister criticised the Congress over its irresponsible role. Modi said the party had failed to act responsibly at this critical juncture. “At this moment, it was expected that Congress would behave like a responsible political entity. However, it has once again failed in this vital task concerning national interest,” he said.

PM Modi also claimed that the opposition party is working under some global forces, which are uncomfortable with India’s rapid growth. “The forces across the globe that cannot digest India’s rapid development—Congress is increasingly becoming a mere puppet in the hands of these very forces,” he said.

#WATCH | Silchar, Assam: PM Narendra Modi says, “Nowadays, conditions of war prevail all around the world. Our government is making every possible effort to ensure that the citizens of our country face the fewest hardships possible. Our objective is to minimise the impact of this… pic.twitter.com/gQlE3iivDF

— ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2026

In his speech, PM Modi said the government is working to shield Indian citizens from the impact of global conflicts. Modi highlighted that the Centre is making every possible effort to ensure that the hardships faced by people due to international tensions are kept to a minimum. “Our government is making every possible effort to ensure that the citizens of our country face the fewest hardships possible. Our objective is to minimise the impact of this war on the nation’s citizens,” the Prime Minister said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the Indian National Congress (INC), claiming the party is facing repeated electoral setbacks across the country and could soon record a “century of defeats”. Addressing a public gathering, Modi said, “Today, every state in the country is teaching Congress a lesson. The party is losing election after election and may soon hit a century of defeats.”

#WATCH | Silchar, Assam: PM Narendra Modi says, “…You have ousted the Congress from Assam. Today, every state in the country is teaching the Congress a lesson. The Congress is losing election after election. In the near future, Congress is poised to hit a century of defeats.… pic.twitter.com/jULwqidmaW

— ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2026

PM Modi was speaking at the inaugural event of the Shillong-Silchar Corridor in Silchar, Assam. He performed the Bhoomi Pujan of the first access-controlled Greenfield four-lane High-Speed Corridor in North-East India. The 166 km corridor will significantly improve connectivity between Meghalaya and Assam. The project will reduce the distance between Guwahati and Silchar and cut travel time from 8.5 hours to approximately 5 hours, boosting economic growth and cross-border trade in the region.

#WATCH | Silchar, Assam: Prime Minister Narendra Modi performs the Bhoomi Poojan of the Shillong-Silchar Corridor, the first access-controlled Greenfield four-lane High-Speed Corridor in North-East India

The 166 km corridor, with an investment of around Rs 22,860 crore, will… pic.twitter.com/UwMvKmbPtd

— ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2026

Targeting Congress, Modi said, “Today, the Bhoomi Pujan was performed for the Shillong-Silchar High-Speed ​​Corridor—a project worth approximately Rs 24,000 crore. Just ask the Congress leaders about this. Hand them a pen and paper, and ask them to write down Rs 24,000 crore, and they won’t even be able to do it.”

‘Congress Neglected the Northeast’

The Prime Minister accused previous Congress governments of ignoring the development of the Northeast for decades after independence.

He said that Congress had kept North-East India “distant from Delhi both in heart and attention,” adding that the party left the region to its own fate for years.

Referring to historical developments, Modi said the Congress at the time of independence allowed the drawing of the borders in a way that cut off the Barak Valley’s crucial access to sea routes, weakening its role as a trade corridor.

“The Barak Valley- once renowned as a major trade route and an industrial hub-was stripped of its very strength. Even after independence, Congress governments remained in power for decades; yet, nothing substantial was done to foster the development of the Barak Valley,” he said.

#WATCH | Silchar, Assam: PM Narendra Modi says, “The Congress party had left the North East to its own fate. When the country attained independence, the Congress permitted the drawing of the boundary in such a manner that the Barak Valley’s vital link to the sea was completely… pic.twitter.com/Xw0aO3Mbxt

— ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2026

BJP Working to Revive Barak Valley Economy

PM Modi said the Bharatiya Janata Party government at the Centre and the state is working to revive the Barak Valley as a key centre for trade and commerce.

Highlighting welfare measures for farmers, he stated that ₹20,000 crore had been transferred directly to farmers in Assam over the past decade, contrasting it with the previous period when Congress governed the country.

He said, “Now think, within 10 years, we have put ₹20,000 crore directly into the pockets of farmers here. During the 10 years Congress ruled, even though the Prime Minister was elected from Assam, they didn’t give a single penny…”

#WATCH | Silchar, Assam: PM Narendra Modi says, “… Be it roads, railways, or colleges, each of these projects is poised to transform the Barak Valley into a major logistics and trade hub for the North East. Consequently, this will generate countless opportunities for employment… pic.twitter.com/2A84Zioun8

— ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2026

‘To Malign India, Congress Tore its Own Clothes in Desperation’: PM

The Prime Minister also criticised the Congress for the recent shirtless protest staged at the AI summit, accusing the party of attempting to tarnish India’s image. He alleged that the opposition party, frustrated by continuous losses, has begun targeting the country itself.

He said, “Driven by the desperation of defeat, the Congress has launched an offensive against the nation itself. Congress leaders have dedicated themselves to the task of maligning the country…In a bid to discredit the AI summit, the Congress staged a bizarre protest—tearing their own clothes in public. It appears the Congress has nothing left to do now but tear its own clothes in desperation. The entire nation has condemned this.”

Govt’s Focus on Border Villages

Highlighting development initiatives, Modi said the BJP government views border settlements as “the country’s first villages” rather than the last ones.

He noted that the next phase of the Vibrant Villages Programme aimed at developing border regions had been launched from Cachar district in Assam.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged the presence of workers from Assam’s tea gardens and said the state government had taken a historic step by granting land rights to thousands of families associated with tea estates.

#WATCH | Silchar, Assam: PM Narendra Modi says, “The BJP’s mantra is to prioritise those who are lagging behind in the race of development. Congress governments used to view the border areas as the country’s last villages. We, however, regard these border villages as the… pic.twitter.com/yYaGWWV479

— ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2026

A possible behind-the-scenes understanding between India and Iran may have helped Indian-bound LPG tankers safely pass through the Strait of Hormuz despite escalating tensions in the region, according to a claim made by strategic affairs expert Brahma Chellaney.

The suggestion comes as a report on Saturday said that two Indian LPG carriers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, have managed to cross the crucial maritime corridor.

In a post on X, Chellaney said the safe transit of the vessels may have followed a quiet arrangement between New Delhi and Tehran. According to him, India allowed about 180 Iranian sailors to return home on a chartered aircraft, while Iran permitted two LPG tankers bound for India to cross the Strait of Hormuz.

Shivalik and Nanda Devi among tankers that crossed Hormuz

Reports earlier today said that the Indian-flagged LPG tanker Shivalik had successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz and entered open waters under the escort of the Indian Navy.

Another LPG vessel, Nanda Devi, also safely exited the strategic waterway carrying more than 46,000 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), a crucial fuel supply for India.

The safe movement of the ships came at a time when shipping through the narrow corridor, one of the world’s busiest oil routes, has been severely disrupted by the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

Claim points to sailor evacuation from Kochi

Chellaney wrote that the chartered aircraft carrying Iranian sailors departed from Kochi, transporting crew members from the Iranian naval vessel IRIS Lavan, which had docked there after the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena was reportedly torpedoed and sunk by the United States.

Deal With Tehran Gets India’s Tankers Through Hormuz: Under a deal struck between New Delhi and Tehran, India allowed about 180 Iranian sailors to return home on a chartered flight last night, while Iran permitted two liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tankers bound for India to…

— Dr. Brahma Chellaney (@Chellaney) March 14, 2026

Another Iranian naval vessel, IRIS Bushehr, had docked in Sri Lanka, he said.

According to the post, Sri Lanka refused to allow the return of 208 crew members and 32 survivors of the sunken frigate under pressure from the United States. However, it permitted the same aircraft to carry 84 bodies of Iranian sailors killed in the attack.

Chellaney added that India is now negotiating safe passage for additional oil and gas tankers as disruptions continue to affect shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

The waterway remains one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, handling nearly 20 per cent of global oil and gas shipments.

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Saturday revoked the detention of Ladakhi climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA) with immediate effect.

In an official statement, the Centre said the decision was taken after due consideration, reiterating its commitment to ensuring peace and stability in Ladakh and encouraging constructive dialogue with all stakeholders in the region.

According to the statement, Wangchuk was detained on September 26, 2025, following a serious law and order situation in Leh on September 24. The detention was carried out under the NSA based on an order issued by the District Magistrate of Leh to maintain public order.

The government noted that Wangchuk had already completed nearly half of the permissible detention period under the Act.

The Centre said it has been actively engaging with community leaders and various stakeholders in Ladakh to address the aspirations and concerns of the people.

However, the government also stated that the continued atmosphere of bandhs and protests had negatively affected several sections of society, including students, job aspirants, businesses, tour operators and tourists, as well as the overall regional economy.

The statement emphasised that the government remains committed to creating an environment of peace, stability, and mutual trust in Ladakh.

It added that the issues concerning the region are expected to be addressed through constructive engagement, including discussions under the High-Powered Committee and other appropriate platforms.

(With inputs from IANS)

India’s second LPG carrier, Nanda Devi, has safely passed through the Strait of Hormuz, days after another Indian-flagged tanker, Shivalik, navigated the same critical route during heightened tensions linked to the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran.

The development follows assurances from Tehran that vessels from friendly countries would be allowed to transit the strategically important waterway. The assurance came after discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on maintaining the movement of energy supplies and goods.

Government sources said Shivalik is currently being escorted by the Indian Navy and is expected to arrive at an Indian port within the next two days. Mumbai or Kandla are likely destinations. The vessel has already moved into open waters and continues its journey under naval protection.

Meanwhile, the second tanker, Nanda Devi, is transporting more than 46,000 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), an important component of India’s domestic energy supply chain. Sources said naval assets are closely coordinating with the vessels to ensure their safe movement through the sensitive maritime corridor.

Iran signals safe passage for friendly countries

On Friday, Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, suggested that Indian ships could receive safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz despite the regional tensions.

“Yes, because India is our friend. You will see it within two or three hours. We believe that Iran and India share common interests in the region,” Fathali said.

He also noted that India had extended support to Iran in various areas following the outbreak of the conflict.

The ambassador’s remarks came shortly after Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi indicated that ships belonging to some countries had been allowed to cross the waterway.

Why the Strait of Hormuz matters

The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the most important maritime choke points in the world. Nearly 20 per cent of global oil and gas shipments move through this narrow passage between the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Sea.

According to the Ministry of Ports and Shipping, there are currently 28 Indian-flagged vessels operating in the Persian Gulf region, and authorities are keeping a close watch on all ships and crew.

Of these, 24 vessels with 677 Indian seafarers were positioned west of the Strait of Hormuz, while four ships carrying 101 Indian crew members were located east of the strait.

Government officials said the situation is being monitored closely to ensure the safety of Indian sailors and uninterrupted energy supplies.

As global attention remains fixed on the escalating crisis in West Asia, fresh tensions in East Asia have also begun drawing international concern. North Korea on Saturday launched a suspected ballistic missile, prompting Japan to issue an emergency alert and activate crisis response mechanisms, raising new security fears in the region.

The Prime Minister’s Office issued a warning on X, stating: “[Emergency alert] North Korea has launched a suspected ballistic missile. More updates to follow.”

Following the alert, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi activated emergency protocols to track the missile. Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister, has maintained a strong focus on national security and territorial protection.

[Emergency alert]
North Korea has launched a suspected ballistic missile. More updates to follow.

— PM’s Office of Japan (@JPN_PMO) March 14, 2026

[Emergency alert]
North Korea has launched a suspected ballistic missile. More updates to follow.

— PM’s Office of Japan (@JPN_PMO) March 14, 2026

Japan Coast Guard Confirms Launch

Japan’s public broadcaster NHK reported that the Japan Coast Guard confirmed the launch at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, citing information from the defence ministry.

Authorities said the projectile appeared to be a ballistic missile launched from North Korea. In response, the coast guard issued an advisory urging ships at sea to remain vigilant and monitor further updates.

Missile Fell Outside Japan’s EEZ

Initial assessments by Japan’s defence ministry indicate that the missile fell into waters outside Japan’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), suggesting there was no immediate threat to Japanese territory.

According to Kyodo News, a government source confirmed that the projectile likely landed outside the EEZ. Officials are continuing to evaluate the situation, although no damage has been reported so far.

The launch was also detected by the military of South Korea, which said that North Korea fired at least one unidentified projectile eastward.

The incident occurred during a period of heightened regional tension, as the United States and South Korea are conducting their annual spring joint military exercises, which Pyongyang frequently criticises.

(With inputs from ANI)

Amid rising tensions in West Asia following the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the Air India group has announced operational plans to maintain connectivity with the region. Air India and Air India Express will operate 80 flights to and from the West Asia region on March 14, including both scheduled and special services. According to an official statement, the airlines will continue regular operations to key destinations such as Jeddah and Muscat.

The airlines will run 10 flights connecting India and Jeddah today. Air India will operate one round-trip flight from Delhi to Jeddah and two round-trip flights from Mumbai to Jeddah.

Meanwhile, Air India Express will run two additional services linking Jeddah with Kozhikode and Mangaluru. The airline will also maintain its scheduled services to Muscat, operating eight flights in total. These include round-trip services from Delhi, Kochi, Kozhikode and Mumbai.

Additional Special Flights

Beyond regular services, the airlines plan to operate 62 additional non-scheduled flights connecting India with destinations in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.

The airline said these flights will depend on slot availability and operational conditions at departure airports, and they are being operated with approvals from the Indian and local aviation authorities.

The airline clarified that its long-haul services to North America, Europe, Australia, and other global destinations will continue as scheduled.

Rebooking and Refund Options for Passengers

Passengers whose flights have been temporarily suspended can reschedule their travel without additional charges or request a full refund, the airline said.

Travellers can submit rebooking or cancellation requests through the Air India website. Air India Express passengers departing from any station in the UAE may also rebook without extra fees on additional commercial flights to any destination in India.

Airline Reaching Out to Affected Travelers

Air India and Air India Express said they are contacting affected passengers directly through their registered mobile numbers to provide rebooking options and important travel updates.

Passengers are encouraged to ensure their current contact details are updated with the airline to receive notifications.

The Air India group added that it is actively evaluating opportunities to operate more ad-hoc flights connecting India with West Asian destinations in the coming days.