The countdown has officially begun for one of TV’s wildest superhero shows. After years of chaos, blood, and jaw-dropping twists, ‘The Boys’ is finally heading toward its explosive goodbye. And if the new trailer is anything to go by, the last season is not planning to leave quietly.

Catch ‘The Boys’ trailer here

‘The Boys’ release date

Fans of the hit series on Amazon Prime Video finally have a date to circle on their calendars. The fifth and final season of The Boys will start streaming on April 8, dropping its first two episodes together.

After that, the story will unfold week by week until the series finale on May 20, when the show officially wraps up its run.

Homelander now runs the world

The final season opens in a terrifying new reality. According to the official storyline, the world now belongs to Homelander.

He is no longer just a powerful Supe. The situation has escalated so far that the country is essentially under his influence. His unpredictable personality and massive ego mean that the future of everyone, human or Supe, hangs by a thread.

The boys are captured

Things are not looking good for the rebel group at the heart of the story.

Three members of the team Hughie Campbell, Mother’s Milk and Frenchie have been locked away in what is described as a “Freedom Camp.”

Meanwhile, Annie January (also known as Starlight) is trying to build a resistance movement against the overwhelming power of the Supes. She has regained her powers and even pulled in some students from the events of Season 2 of the spinoff series Gen V to help her cause.

And then there is one more mystery: Kimiko Miyashiro has disappeared entirely.

Butcher returns with a dangerous plan

Just when the situation seems hopeless, Billy Butcher shows up again.

Butcher escaped capture at the end of Season 4. Now he returns with two terrifying advantages. First, he has developed strange tendril-like superpowers. Second, and far more dangerous, he holds a virus capable of wiping out every Supe on Earth.

His decision to use that virus triggers a chain of events that could change the world forever.

‘The Boys’ cast

Season 5 brings back many familiar faces.

The cast includes Karl Urban, Jack Quaid, Antony Starr, Erin Moriarty, Jared Padalecki, Jensen Ackles, Jessie T. Usher, Laz Alonso, Chace Crawford, Tomer Capone, Karen Fukuhara, Colby Minifie, Cameron Crovetti, Susan Heyward, Valorie Curry and Daveed Diggs.

The series is based on the comic books created by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson.

The TV adaptation was developed by showrunner Eric Kripke and backed by a long list of executive producers, including Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, James Weaver, Neal H. Moritz, Pavun Shetty, Phil Sgriccia, Michaela Starr, Paul Grellong, David Reed, Judalina Neira, Jessica Chou, Gabriel Garcia, Ori Marmur, Ken F. Levin and Jason Netter.

Also Read: Bridgerton Season 5 already locked and loaded, scripts done; here is what we know about cast & release date

Ravindra Duragkar, the father of Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar, who died in the Su-30MKI crash in Assam’s Karbi Anglong remembered his son on Friday as a dedicated officer who was deeply committed to his country.

Speaking to the media, he shared that he received the news of his son’s demise from the unit’s Group Captain.

“Due to runway-related work in Tezpur, he was posted in Jorhat. He used to share about his work. He always tried not to make mistakes. His Group Captain has officially communicated to us that he (his son) is no more,” he said.

The plane also carried Squadron Leader Anuj, who was also killed in the Su-30MKI crash.
Expressing condolences to the bereaved families, they acknowledged the deaths on X, stating, “IAF acknowledges the loss of Sqn Ldr Anuj and Flt Lt Purvesh Duragkar, who sustained fatal injuries in the Su-30 crash. All personnel of the IAF express sincere condolences and stand firmly with the bereaved family in this time of grief.”
The IAF had stated that the Su-30MKI was on a training sortie when it crashed in the area of Karbi Anglong, Assam, which is approx 60 km from Jorhat.
The aircraft had lost radar contact at around 7.42 pm after taking off from Jorhat in Assam.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also shared his condolences with the families of two pilots killed in the IAF Su-30MKI crash in Karbi Anglong district of Assam.
He wrote on X, “Deeply saddened by the loss of Sqn Ldr Anuj and Flt Lt Purvesh Duragkar in the tragic Su-30 crash. Their courage and service to the nation will always be remembered with pride and gratitude. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The nation stands firmly with them in this hour of grief.

Iran has rejected speculation that it has blocked the crucial Strait of Hormuz, with Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh saying Tehran would openly declare any such move if it were taken.

The clarification comes at a time of rising military tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. Speaking at the Raisina Dialogue 2026 in New Delhi, Khatibzadeh described Iran as a “responsible power” in the Persian Gulf and insisted the country continues to act as a stabilising presence in the region.

“Iran is an anchor of stability in the Strait of Hormuz. We will announce if we close the Strait of Hormuz. We have not closed it. We are a responsible power,” he said.

Addressing diplomats and policy experts at the conference, the Iranian official said Tehran has no immediate plans to restrict navigation through the strategic waterway. “We have not yet closed the Strait of Hormuz. We have no intention to do that until further notice,” he said, arguing that Iran’s presence helps maintain maritime stability in the area.

Also Read: Khamenei killing was no spur-of-the-moment strike; Israel minister says decision was taken last year

Iran blames US, Israel for escalating tensions

Khatibzadeh said Iran remains committed to international maritime rules and freedom of navigation. However, he accused the United States of undermining security in the region.

The Iranian diplomat also took aim at US President Donald Trump, criticising Washington’s rhetoric about Iran’s political leadership.

“President Trump is asking for a leadership change in Iran, while he can’t even appoint the mayor of New York. Can you imagine this colonial approach? While he would like to see democracy at home, he would like to topple the democratically elected president of Iran,” he said.

Describing the ongoing confrontation as an “existential war,” Khatibzadeh alleged that the US and Israel had launched attacks against Iran without provocation.

“What is being done by Americans and Israelis today is against international law and norms. There was no provocation from Iran. My country is under attack based on flat lies that Iran was imposing a threat,” he said.

He warned that Tehran would retaliate against any military strikes, stating, “We have no option but to hit wherever the Americans are originating their attack from.”

The Iranian official also claimed that Israel’s intelligence agency Mossad was conducting “false-flag operations” aimed at widening the conflict to other parts of the region, including Saudi Arabia, Cyprus, and Qatar.

Khatibzadeh further criticised attacks on senior government officials, calling such actions a “dangerous” and “unprecedented” development in global politics.

Diplomacy remains the only path, says Iranian minister

Despite the sharp rhetoric, the Iranian diplomat stressed that dialogue must ultimately resolve the crisis.

Khatibzadeh, who also heads the Institute for Political and International Studies, said Iran values diplomatic engagement and sees India as a country with a similar strategic outlook.

“India and Iran share a chess mentality not like the American football mentality. Diplomacy down the road is the only option,” he said.

In line with the target set by the Centre, the Naxal activities will be completely wiped out across the county by the brave dedicated security forces by March 31 next, Union Home Minister Amit Shah reiterated on Friday.

Shah, who addressed the 57th Raising Day ceremony of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) as the Chief Guest in Mundali in Odisha’s Cuttack district, said, “Left wing extremists who dreamt of a Red Corridor from Tirupati to Pashupatinath Temple will be completely defeated by our security forces by 31 March with our security forces establishing their dominance”.

Stating that it is the resolve of the Modi government that by March 31, 2026, the country will be made free from Naxalism, he said CISF has a very significant contribution in this regard.

He said that CISF has played its role in anti-Naxal operations in Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Telangana. The Home Minister expressed confidence that by March 31, the country will be completely free from Naxalism.

This (freeing the country from Naxalisn) is a very major achievement of our security forces, he said observing that “today we are on the verge of making the country free from Naxalism”.

He said that Prime Minister Modi’s goal is to develop the entire country and build a developed India by 2047, and for this, ensuring the country’s internal and external security is essential.

To ensure the country’s internal and external security, the Ministry of Home Affairs is fully prepared to play its role both at the borders and within the borders, the Union Home Minister Shah further stated.

On the occasion, the Union Home Minister laid the foundation stone for three residential complexes (Kamrup, Nashik and Sehore) of the CISF to be built at a cost of Rs 890 crore, and inaugurated two residential complexes (Rajarhat and Delhi).

Lauding the acts of bravery, dedication and dutifulness of CISF personnel, Shah said that after completing 56 years today, the CISF has risen from zero to the pinnacle in the field of industrial security, which is a saga of the force’s dedication and valor.

The vision of building a strong national economy and making India the world’s largest economy cannot be realized without industrial development, and providing a secure environment for industrial growth requires a national-level industrial security force, Shah said.

Shah further stated that over the past 56 years, CISF has not only fulfilled the objectives for which it was established but has also continuously evolved with time by learning from every type of challenge.

He added that CISF has embraced modernity while keeping its traditions alive.

The Home Minister further said that by combining courage, sacrifice, and dedication with the rich traditions of India’s history, and equipping itself with modern weapons, CISF has demonstrated the resolve to face every kind of challenge.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Home Secretary, the Director General of CISF, and several other distinguished dignitaries attended the 57th Raising Day ceremony of CISF.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Friday that the risks of instability caused by geopolitical rivalry across land, sea, and air, such as the current tensions in the Gulf region involving the US, Israel, and Iran, are increasingly becoming the new normal.

Speaking at the Sagar Sankalp Seminar in Kolkata on Friday, the Defence Minister spoke at length about the impact of the crisis, considering the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf for global energy security.

“Any disruption in the region directly affects oil and gas supplies worldwide, and hence, uncertainties in the region will significantly impact global trade and economies. Rising geopolitical competition across land, sea, air, and even space is surely a matter of concern. What is even more worrying is that such instability risks are becoming the new normal,” Singh said.

According to him, the current development in West Asia being highly unusual, it is difficult now to make any specific and firm comment on what the crisis will ultimately lead to.

However, he added, that despite the uncertainties over the geopolitical competition, he is confident that India will provide leadership in the maritime sector. “Self-reliance is the only way out to achieve that, overcoming the supply chain disruptions,” the Defence Minister said.

Claiming that in the current era of global geopolitics, oceans have once again come to the centre of the world’s power balance, the Defence Minister observed that as a major maritime nation, India will have to provide leadership with confidence, capability, and a clear vision.

“In the defence sector of the country, high-end and precision technologies are being utilised. Hence, our government has, from the very beginning, believed that in this era of uncertainty, the only way to avoid supply chain disruptions is self-reliance. One of the major pillars of our vision for self-reliance is defence public sector undertakings,” Singh added.

He also said that the goal of the Indian government is to make India emerge as one of the top ten global players in the sector of shipbuilding.

Bangladesh have announced their squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan, set to begin on March 11 in Dhaka, according to the ICC website. The remaining matches of the series will be played on March 13 and March 15 at the Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium

Bangladesh last featured in an ODI series against the West Indies, where they secured a 2–1 series win in Mirpur.

Among the notable inclusions is Afif Hossain, who returns to the ODI squad for the first time since December 2024. Mahidul Islam has retained his place from the squad that last played an ODI series against the West Indies in October 2025, while Litton Das has also been included despite a recent lean patch in the format.

Meanwhile, Nurul Hasan, Jaker Ali Anik and Shamim Hossain have been omitted from the squad. Fast bowlers Hasan Mahmud and Tanzim Hasan Sakib are unavailable due to injuries, with the former recovering from tennis elbow and the latter from a back injury. The injured duo is expected to return to full fitness by the end of the month.

Bangladesh selection panel chairman Gazi Ashraf Hossain explained some of the selection decisions, including the call to retain Litton Das.

“There may be questions about Litton Das’s recent ODI form, but he has been working closely with the coaches on his game. We believe he can soon produce his best in this format and are considering him as an option to strengthen the middle order,” he said, as quoted by the ICC website.

He also backed the inclusion of Afif Hossain and the continued selection of Mahidul Islam.

“Afif brings valuable experience and currently appears to be in fine touch. Mahidul Islam has been retained, and this is a good opportunity for him to fulfil the potential he has shown,” he added.

Bangladesh squad for ODI series vs Pakistan:

Mehidy Hasan Miraz (captain), Soumya Sarkar, Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Tawhid Hridoy, Litton Das, Afif Hossain, Mahidul Islam Bhuiyan, Rishad Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Nahid Rana.

Bangladesh vs Pakistan ODI series schedule:

March 11 – 1st ODI, Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Dhaka
March 13 – 2nd ODI, Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Dhaka
March 15 – 3rd ODI, Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Dhaka

A supporter of the Bihar Chief Minister on Friday launched an indefinite hunger strike outside Nitish Kumar’s residence, urging him to continue leading the state instead of moving to the Rajya Sabha and relinquishing his post to join the Centre.

Speaking to IANS, Amarendra Das Triloki said, “Hearing that Nitish Kumar might go to the Centre saddened us greatly. Bihar before 2005 was marked by lawlessness and unrest. Since assuming office in 2005, Nitish Kumar has focussed on development in every sector. Good governance was established, justice delivered, and progress achieved in education, health, employment, clean drinking water, and women’s empowerment. Many schemes are actively running, making Bihar more prosperous and its people happier.”

Triloki added, “Today, poverty in Bihar is not as severe as in many other states. That is why I will not allow him to leave. As long as Nitish ji is healthy, he should continue to serve and adorn Bihar. The state now receives electricity for about 23 hours a day — such achievements do not happen by chance. We will ensure he stays.”

He further said, “Just as he considers all of Bihar his family, we consider him part of ours. We will not let him go to Delhi; he should remain in Bihar.”

The protest underscores the strong emotional connect many citizens have with Nitish Kumar, whose tenure since 2005 has been credited with stabilising Bihar, improving governance, and implementing wide-ranging development initiatives.

Nitish Kumar, a veteran leader of the Janata Dal (United), has been at the forefront of Bihar politics for over two decades. His leadership has transformed the state’s social and economic landscape, with notable progress in infrastructure, public services, and women’s empowerment.

Recently, he filed his nomination for the Rajya Sabha, a move that could require him to vacate the Chief Minister’s post, prompting calls from supporters to continue his leadership in Bihar.

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has taken steps to strengthen parcel logistics by introducing refrigerated parcel van services to facilitate the transportation of horticultural and other perishable produce from Mizoram, aiming to expand market access for local farmers and traders.

NFR’s Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Kapinjal Kishore Sharma said that with the introduction of passenger and freight train services, Mizoram has experienced a significant transformation in both passenger transportation and the movement of goods across the state.

This development has not only improved connectivity but has also contributed to economic growth and further strengthened tourism in the region, he said.

The NITI Aayog recently formally declared Mizoram as the ‘Ginger Capital of India’, recognising the state’s reputation for producing high-quality ginger and its rapid growth in ginger production in recent years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 51.38 km Bairabi (near Assam)—Sairang (near Aizawl) railway line on September 13 last year (2025) marking a historic milestone for the people of the mountainous state Mizoram.

The CPRO said that this major infrastructure project has brought Aizawl onto India’s railway map by directly linking the state to the national railway network.

Beyond improving transportation, the new rail line is expected to create significant opportunities for economic growth and promote tourism development across the region, he stated.

Sharma said that in a significant historic milestone, the first-ever Food Corporation of India (FCI) food grain cargo train arrived at Sairang Railway Station on March 3, 2026.

The cargo train comprised 42 wagons carrying around 25,900 quintals of rice from Punjab. This marks an important step in strengthening rail-based freight connectivity in the state and improving the supply chain of essential commodities.

According to the official, the newly opened railway line in Mizoram has given a boost to tourism, with the state witnessing a steady increase in the number of visitors over the past six months.

Railway services in Mizoram reached a new milestone with the arrival of the Bharat Gaurav Deluxe AC Tourist Train at Sairang Railway Station for the very first time on February 12, 2026 under the ‘North East Discovery’ circuit.

Since the commencement of train services on the Bairabi–Sairang route in September 2025, public response has been overwhelming. The Sairang-Anand Vihar Rajdhani Express has recorded occupancy exceeding 150 per cent in both directions. The Sairang-Guwahati Express and Sairang-Kolkata Express have similarly registered strong occupancy levels of over 100 per cent, clearly reflecting robust demand and strong public acceptance of railway services from Sairang.

On February 9, 2026 a new train service from Sairang to Silchar was flagged off by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, further strengthening regional mobility, and connecting Mizoram with the important educational, medical and commercial hub of the Barak Valley in southern Assam.

The NFR CPRO said that freight operations on the Bairabi-Sairang section have gained significant momentum since its commissioning.

It may be noted that the first freight rake comprising 21 cement wagons was successfully moved to Sairang shortly after inauguration, marking the beginning of regular freight movement to the state.

The expansion of railway connectivity marks a turning point for Mizoram, Sharma said, adding that by improving transportation, stimulating economic growth and boosting tourism, the railways are playing a vital role in the state’s transformation. As infrastructure continues to develop, Mizoram is steadily emerging as an accessible and attractive destination in Northeast India, he stated.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Friday launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alleging that India’s strategic autonomy and national sovereignty were under threat due to the government’s handling of foreign policy and energy trade decisions.

In a post on X, the Congress president claimed that recent developments surrounding India’s purchase of Russian oil and diplomatic engagements with the United States indicated that the government was conceding ground internationally. Referring to reports of a temporary waiver related to oil purchases from Russia, Kharge said the language used in such arrangements was inappropriate for a country like India.

“The US proclamation to ‘allow’ and grant us ‘permission’ to buy Russian oil, as a ‘waiver for 30-days’, clearly demonstrates the Modi government is continuously ceding diplomatic space,” Kharge wrote. “This is the kind of language used for sanctioned states, not India, which has been a responsible and equal partner in the global order.”

Kharge also criticised what he described as repeated pressure from former US President Donald Trump on India’s strategic and economic decisions. Listing several instances in his post, he alleged that announcements related to a ceasefire during Operation Sindoor and other international developments were made by Trump rather than by Indian authorities.

“Modi ji’s friend Mr Trump announces a ceasefire first during Operation Sindoor, not us. He announces that he stopped the war, at least 100 times. The PM remains silent,” Kharge said.

He further alleged that India had altered its oil import decisions under external pressure. “They tell India not to buy Iranian oil and the government of India succumbs. Mr Trump tells us not to buy Russian oil and the government reduces imports,” Kharge said.

The Congress president also referred to a reported Indo-US trade arrangement, claiming it was linked to India limiting purchases of Russian oil. “Mr Trump announced the Indo-US trade deal agreement, which is contingent on India not buying Russian oil, and Modi ji puts a stamp of approval,” he said.

Kharge argued that India historically maintained an independent foreign policy and suggested that previous prime ministers had resisted pressure from other countries. Referring to leaders such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, he said India had always charted its own course in global affairs.

“India has a proud record of charting our own destiny. From Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi to even Atal Bihari Vajpayee, no prime minister has buckled under pressure of any country and made India a virtual vassal state,” Kharge wrote, adding that the government had “surrendered” diplomatic space in areas ranging from trade to energy.

India has significantly increased crude oil imports from Russia since the start of the Russia–Ukraine War in 2022, taking advantage of discounted supplies amid Western sanctions on Moscow. New Delhi has repeatedly maintained that its energy purchases are guided by national interest and aimed at ensuring affordable supplies for the country.

The issue of energy imports and foreign policy autonomy has become a subject of political debate in India, with opposition parties questioning the government’s approach, while the Centre maintains that it continues to pursue an independent and balanced global strategy.

With their places in the final secured, India and New Zealand will lock horns in the summit clash of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on Sunday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Ahead of the final, the ICC has unveiled the shortlist for the Player of the Tournament award, recognising the standout performers of the ongoing mega event.

India’s Sanju Samson is among the eight nominees, alongside England’s Will Jacks, Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan, South Africa’s duo Lungi Ngidi and Aiden Markram, New Zealand’s pair Rachin Ravindra and Tim Seifert, and USA’s Shadley van Schalkwyk.

Samson has been one of India’s standout performers at the tournament, particularly stepping up in the crucial knockout stages. The wicketkeeper-batter produced back-to-back Player of the Match performances in India’s last two games.

He first smashed an unbeaten 97 off just 50 balls in a crucial Super Eight victory over the West Indies that helped India book their spot in the semi-finals. Samson followed it up with another match-winning knock in the semi-final, scoring a brisk 89 off 42 balls against England.

Across four matches, the right-hander has amassed 232 runs at an average of 77.33 and a strike rate of 201.73.

Other performers shortlisted for Player of the Tournament

England’s Will Jacks also enjoyed a prolific campaign, winning four Player of the Match awards, including in the crucial Super Eight clashes against Sri Lanka and New Zealand. Batting lower down the order, Jacks played the role of a finisher to perfection, scoring 226 runs at a strike rate of 176.56.

His standout innings came against Italy, when he powered England’s recovery from 105/5 to 202/7 with an unbeaten 53 off just 22 deliveries, striking three fours and four sixes.

Jacks also contributed with the ball, delivering key breakthroughs with his off-spin. Against Sri Lanka, he claimed 3/22 in four overs after scoring a handy 21 with the bat. He followed that with another all-round performance against New Zealand, picking up 2/23 and scoring an unbeaten 32 to guide England to a four-wicket win.

Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan was one of the tournament’s most prolific batters, scoring 383 runs in six innings, the most by a player in a single edition of the Men’s T20 World Cup. The opener also became the first player to score two centuries in a single edition of the tournament, achieving the feat against Sri Lanka and Namibia.

South Africa’s Lungi Ngidi proved to be a key figure in the Proteas’ pace attack and was their most consistent fast bowler throughout the tournament. He began with a four-wicket haul against Canada and followed it up with figures of 3/26 against Afghanistan in a thrilling contest decided by two Super Overs. Ngidi also picked up three wickets against the West Indies in the Super Eights.

Aiden Markram was another central figure in South Africa’s campaign, scoring three half-centuries across eight matches. Promoted to the top of the order, Markram delivered crucial performances in run chases.

He scored an unbeaten 86 against New Zealand to guide South Africa to a successful chase of 176 in 17.1 overs. Markram produced another unbeaten 86 against the West Indies, helping his side chase down 177 in just 16.1 overs.

New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra has impressed with both bat and ball during the tournament. After the Black Caps’ opening Super Eight clash against Pakistan was washed out, Ravindra made an impact against Sri Lanka by scoring 32 runs and returning with figures of 4/27 to restrict the co-hosts to 107/8. He followed that up with 3/19 against England.

USA pacer Shadley van Schalkwyk also enjoyed a strong campaign, starting the tournament with a four-wicket haul against India on February 7. His clever variations helped reduce India to 77/6 at one stage. He followed that performance with identical figures of 4/25 against Pakistan.

Meanwhile, Tim Seifert has played a crucial role in New Zealand’s run to the final, amassing 274 runs across eight matches.

The right-hander began the tournament with fifties against Afghanistan and the UAE, but his most significant knock came in the semi-final against South Africa, where he scored 58.

Seifert shared a 117-run opening partnership with Finn Allen as New Zealand successfully chased down a target of 170 to secure their place in the final.

Japan’s agriculture ministry has confirmed an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza at a poultry farm in Hokkaido, marking the northern prefecture’s fourth case and the country’s 21st outbreak this season.

The affected farm, located in the town of Abira, keeps about 190,000 chickens, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries said in a statement on Thursday.

Local authorities were notified by the farm on Wednesday. A rapid avian influenza test conducted the same day returned a positive result, which was confirmed by genetic testing the following day.

All chickens at the farm will be culled, incinerated, and buried to prevent further spread of the virus.

Japan’s avian influenza season typically runs from autumn until the following spring, Xinhua news agency reported.

According to the World Health Organization, Avian influenza A(H5N1) is a subtype of influenza virus that infects birds and mammals, including humans in rare instances. The goose/Guangdong-lineage of H5N1 avian influenza viruses first emerged in 1996 and have been causing outbreaks in birds since then. Since 2020, a variant of these viruses belonging to the H5 clade 2.3.4.4b has led to an unprecedented number of deaths in wild birds and poultry in many countries in Africa, Asia and Europe. In 2021, the virus spread to North America, and in 2022, to Central and South America.

Infections in humans can cause severe disease with a high mortality rate. The human cases detected thus far are mostly linked to close contact with infected birds and other animals and contaminated environments. This virus does not appear to transmit easily from person to person, and sustained human-to-human transmission has not been reported.

The WHO highlights that although human cases are rare, the high fatality rate (over 50 per cent in reported cases since 2003) makes it a major concern.

The Opposition on Friday sharply criticised the Centre after the United States announced a temporary waiver allowing Indian refiners to purchase Russian oil, with several leaders questioning why New Delhi needed Washington’s approval for its energy choices.

The criticism comes amid rising tensions in West Asia and disruption of shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, which is a key passage for global oil supplies. The US Treasury said the waiver would allow Indian refiners to buy Russian crude for 30 days so that oil continues to flow into global markets during the crisis.

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi said India’s foreign policy must reflect the will and traditions of its people rather than what he described as the “exploitation of a compromised individual”.

“India’s foreign policy emerges from the collective will of our people. It should be rooted in our history, our geography, and our spiritual ethos based on Satya and Ahimsa. What we are witnessing today is not policy. It is the result of the exploitation of a compromised individual,” Gandhi wrote on X.

India’s foreign policy emerges from the collective will of our people.

It should be rooted in our history, our geography, and our spiritual ethos based on Satya and Ahimsa.

What we are witnessing today is not policy.

It is the result of the exploitation of a compromised… https://t.co/GEO4MY6hzu

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) March 6, 2026

Former Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party convenor Arvind Kejriwal also questioned why India would require permission from the United States to buy oil from Russia.

“Who is America to grant India permission to buy oil from Russia? Why does India even need permission from America?” he said in a post on X, alleging that India’s leadership appeared weak in its dealings with Washington. Kejriwal further demanded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s resignation, saying India should not appear to bow before another country.

Several Congress leaders echoed similar concerns.

Congress MP Manish Tewari asked whether India needed approval from Washington to determine its energy sources, criticising what he described as the United States’ “neo-imperial arrogance”.

“Are we a banana republic that we need the permission of the US to secure our energy security imperatives?” he said on X, also questioning the Centre’s silence over the announcement.

Congress MP KC Venugopal called the development humiliating for India’s sovereignty and global standing, arguing that the country should independently decide what best serves its national interest.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh described the situation as “American blackmail” in a short post on X while referring to the US announcement.

Congress MP Randeep Singh Surjewala also alleged that the government had compromised India’s sovereignty and questioned why India should seek US approval to buy Russian oil.

CPI leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sandosh Kumar P also wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling the US remark “humiliating for a sovereign nation.” In his letter, he questioned how Washington could claim to “allow” India to buy oil and said the statement created the impression that India’s energy choices were subject to American approval.

He urged the Prime Minister to raise the matter diplomatically and make it clear that India’s energy security and foreign policy decisions would be guided only by national interest.

Political commentator Tehseen Poonawalla also criticised the US’s move. In a post on X, he said it was “an utter disgrace to our sacred sovereignty” that Washington appeared to decide whether India could buy Russian oil.

| Political analyst Tehseen Poonawalla criticised the United States over alleged pressure on India’s oil trade with Russia and Iran, saying decisions on energy policy and international commerce must remain India’s sovereign choice.@tehseenp | #TehseenPoonawalla #IndiaUS… pic.twitter.com/DSrhMOLRt5

— The Statesman (@TheStatesmanLtd) March 6, 2026

Also Read: Oil shock buffer: US gives India 30-day waiver to buy Russian crude as Gulf crisis rattles Hormuz

What the US waiver says

The controversy followed a statement by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who announced the measure on X.

“President Trump’s energy agenda has resulted in oil and gas production reaching the highest levels ever recorded. To enable oil to keep flowing into the global market, the Treasury Department is issuing a temporary 30-day waiver to allow Indian refiners to purchase Russian oil,” Bessent wrote.

He said the short-term waiver would only allow transactions involving Russian oil already stranded at sea and would not significantly benefit Moscow financially. He also added that the United States expects India to increase imports of American oil.

According to Bessent, the measure aims to ease pressure caused by Iran’s actions in the global energy market.

Energy security concerns amid West Asia crisis

The US move has come against the backdrop of escalating tensions in West Asia. The situation worsened after joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran on 28 February that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei along with several senior figures.

Iran soon hit back, launching strikes aimed at American military bases and Israeli-linked targets across the region. The back-and-forth has deepened fears that the conflict could spiral further, unsettling a part of the world that sits at the heart of the global energy trade.

Much of the concern centres on the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow stretch of water but one of the most important oil routes on the planet. A huge volume of global crude passes through this corridor every day. For India, the route is especially vital because close to 40 per cent of the country’s oil imports come from this region and travel through these waters.

Any disruption there can ripple through the Indian economy. Industries such as ceramics and fertilisers, which rely heavily on liquefied natural gas (LNG) imported from Gulf Cooperation Council countries, could feel the impact if energy supplies tighten.

However, government sources said India remains in a comfortable position regarding energy security, with adequate stock levels and diversified sources of supply. They said the country continues to review the situation closely and is in touch with multiple suppliers to ensure the uninterrupted availability of crude oil and gas.

The Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) has claimed responsibility for an armed attack in Balochistan’s Khuzdar district that killed three Pakistani soldiers and injured several others, briefly seizing control of Karkh town while targeting multiple government installations during the operation, local media reported on Friday.

In a statement issued to the media, BLF spokesperson Major Gwahram Baloch said that the operation occurred on March 4 involving a coordinated assault by the group’s fighters.

According to the statement, the armed group encircled Karkh from several directions and blocked the town’s entry and exit routes.

The spokesperson stated that BLF fighters launched an attack on a police checkpoint at Moola Cross on the Khuzdar–Ratto Dero section of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) route, seizing weapons and equipment from the checkpoint before setting the facility ablaze, The Balochistan Post reported.

He further claimed that the BLF fighters later entered Karkh, taking control of several government buildings, including a police station, a National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) office, a bank and the office of the Deputy Commissioner—destroying records and state symbols inside these offices and confiscating weapons.

The BLF said that its fighters conducted inspections during roadblocks in the area, detaining several individuals, including a police sub-inspector, Anwar Ali, from Brahmanabad region in Pakistan’s Sindh province. The group added that the detainees were later released following questioning, while an injured police officer was reportedly transported to a hospital.

During the operation, the spokesperson stated that two vehicles transporting marble were damaged, describing it as the exploitation of local resources.

The BLF alleged that Pakistani security forces later attempted to move towards the area, firing mortar shells from a distance, leading to clashes that occurred near Moola Cross, resulting in the deaths of three Pakistani soldiers and injuries to several others.

The group said that its fighters left the town later in the evening after concluding the operation.

This latest incident comes against the backdrop of escalating attacks by Baloch militant groups targeting Pakistani military and police forces across Balochistan in recent days, resulting in heavy casualties and damage to the infrastructure.

Ranju Darshana Neupane, the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) candidate from Kathmandu-1, has been elected to the House of Representatives, becoming the first candidate to secure victory in Nepal’s parliamentary elections held on Thursday.

Neupane, 30, secured 15,455 votes to win the parliamentary seat, defeating Prabal Thapa of the Nepali Congress, who garnered 6,364 votes. Rabindra Mishra, the candidate of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party, secured 3,972 votes.

Darshana won the seat on her second attempt. Her first bid to enter Parliament as an Independent candidate in the 2022 elections had failed.

She first came into the public spotlight during the 2017 local elections, when she contested for the mayoral post of Kathmandu Metropolitan City and secured 23,439 votes, a respectable number, emerging as a prominent face of alternative politics.

Her political journey began in 2013 with the erstwhile Bibeksheel Nepali Party, which led the “Nepal Khulla Chha (Nepal is Open)” campaign protesting against frequent nationwide shutdowns and bandhs imposed by traditional political parties.

After remaining relatively inactive in politics for some time as she focused on motherhood, Darshana made a comeback following the merger of her former party, the Bibeksheel Sajha Party, with the RSP a few months before the latest elections. She had previously served as the general secretary of Bibeksheel Sajha and is now a member of the RSP’s central committee.

The Bibeksheel movement is widely credited with laying the foundation of alternative politics in Nepal.

Initially, the RSP had placed Darshana on its proportional representation closed list. However, after she expressed dissatisfaction with her low position on the list, the party withdrew her name and fielded her as a direct candidate from Kathmandu-1 under the First-Past-the-Post (FPTP) system.

Born in March 1996 and raised in Kathmandu by a single mother, Darshana says her upbringing shaped her resilience and commitment to social justice. Her mother supported the family through tailoring and childcare work to ensure her education despite financial hardship.

Darshana holds a Bachelor’s degree in Development Studies from Kathmandu University and a Master’s degree in Political Science from Tribhuvan University. She has also completed a postgraduate diploma in counselling psychology.

Alongside politics, she conducts mental health awareness programmes, provides basic psychosocial counselling, and teaches undergraduate students at Thames International College in Kathmandu.

The World Uyghur Congress (WUC) has expressed serious concern over reports that Uyghurs in China’s Xinjiang region are facing restrictions during the holy month of Ramadan, with several individuals allegedly arrested for observing religious practices.

The organisation stated that these actions reflected the absence of freedom of religion or belief in East Turkistan, also known as the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China.

Citing Uyghur Service of Radio Free Asia (RFA), the WUC stated that on February 27, the police authorities arrested six Uyghurs across several villages in China’s Hotan Prefecture—including Bulaq Chorgey, Bash Chapal, Dul Tugman, and Korgan—for allegedly “secretly fasting” during the holy month of Ramadan.

“Ramadan restrictions continue to be tightened, year after year. The recent detention of six Uyghurs proves that people don’t even have the freedom to do it in the privacy of their homes. Surveillance, coerced labour, these practices violate not only international law, but Chinese domestic laws,” said WUC President, Turgunjan Alawdun.

According to the WUC, these developments come amid ongoing discussions on the situation of Uyghurs at the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.

In her thematic report to the Council, “How Freedom of Religion or Belief Relates to Death and Honouring the Deceased’’, the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, Nazila Ghanea highlighted that the Chinese authorities were destroying and replacing cemeteries of Uyghur muslims, under the auspices of “standardisation’’ and “civilisation’’, without the knowledge of the relatives of the deceased.

The WUC stated that such actions align with the Chinese government’s broader policy of “Sinicisation” of religion, designed to reshape religious practice to conform to Communist Party ideology and state control.

“In East Turkistan, this policy has translated into systematic restrictions on the expression of Islamic faith, including bans on fasting during Ramadan for many segments of the population, the removal or alteration of mosques and religious sites, the prohibition of religious education, and the criminalisation of everyday religious behaviour. Practices that are normal expressions of faith—such as fasting, prayer, wearing religious clothing, or teaching religion to children—are increasingly treated as signs of ‘extremism’,” the WUC stated.

“ The surveillance and punishment of Uyghurs for observing Ramadan therefore reflect a broader strategy aimed at eroding independent religious life and forcing the assimilation of Uyghurs into a state-defined cultural and ideological framework, in clear violation of the right to freedom of religion or belief under international law,” it added.

Ellyse Perry and Annabel Sutherland shared an unbroken 38-run stand to guide Australia women to 96/3 at stumps on Day 1 of the one-off pink-ball Test against the India women’s national cricket team at the WACA Ground in Perth on Friday.

After bowling India out for 198, Australia faced a tricky evening session under lights but ended the day trailing by 102 runs with seven wickets in hand.

Perry remained unbeaten on 43 from 62 balls, striking seven boundaries, while Sutherland was 20 not out off 29 deliveries as the pair steadied the innings following early Indian breakthroughs.

Stumps on Day 1⃣#TeamIndia pick 3⃣ wickets in the final session

Actions resumes tomorrow ⏳

Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/60dR7l123m#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/uQRHZVKApm

— BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) March 6, 2026

Earlier, India’s pace attack struck quickly. Debutant seamer Sayali Satghare removed Georgia Voll with a sharp inswinger that breached her defence, while fellow debutant Kranti Gaud dismissed Phoebe Litchfield for nine after Jemimah Rodrigues took a superb low catch at backward point.

Australia captain Alyssa Healy, playing what could be her final international match, received a standing ovation from the Perth crowd but managed just 13 before edging Satghare to Rodrigues at backward point, leaving Australia at 58/3.

With the ball moving under lights, Satghare and Gaud kept India in the contest, but Perry gradually took control, driving and cutting with authority. Sutherland also looked fluent, with a crisp extra-cover drive and a controlled pull shot among the highlights of her innings.

India had earlier been bowled out for 198 in 62.4 overs despite a fighting half-century from Rodrigues. Sutherland starred with the ball for Australia, claiming 4/46, while Lucy Hamilton picked up 3/31.

The Test began with Australia opting to bowl after winning the toss. Healy said the decision was influenced by the opportunity to give their young pace attack an early chance despite the good batting conditions.

India captain Harmanpreet Kaur said her side had also considered bowling first but emphasised adapting to the conditions at the WACA.

The match marks the final leg of India’s tour of Australia and the conclusion of the multi-format series. India won the three-match T20I series 2–1, their first T20 series victory over Australia in a decade, but Australia responded with a 3-0 sweep in the ODIs.

With Australia well placed at the end of Day 1, India will need early breakthroughs on Saturday to prevent the hosts from taking a significant first-innings lead.

Brief Scores:
India 198 all out (62.4 overs) – Jemimah Rodrigues 52, Shafali Verma 35; Annabel Sutherland 4/46, Lucy Hamilton 3/31.
Australia 96/3 (27 overs) – Ellyse Perry 43*, Annabel Sutherland 20*; Sayali Satghare 2/24, Kranti Gaud 1/28.

India Women vs Australia Women one-off Test: Playing XI

India Women:

Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Pratika Rawal, Harmanpreet Kaur(c), Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh(w), Deepti Sharma, Kashvee Gautam, Sneh Rana, Sayali Satghare, Kranti Gaud.

Here’s a look at #TeamIndia‘s Playing XI for the Test match

Pratika Rawal, Kashvee Gautam, Sayali Satghare, and Kranti Gaud are set for their Test debuts

Updates ▶️ https://t.co/60dR7l0udO#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/rg7gOrsHuo

— BCCI Women (@BCCIWomen) March 6, 2026

Australia Women:

Phoebe Litchfield, Georgia Voll, Ellyse Perry, Alyssa Healy(c), Annabel Sutherland, Beth Mooney(w), Ashleigh Gardner, Tahlia McGrath, Alana King, Lucy Hamilton, Darcie Brown.

When a superstar from the 90s suddenly appears on a small school stage, the internet does what it does best: talk, judge, and turn everything into a viral debate. That’s exactly what happened when Govinda recently performed at a couple of school events in Uttar Pradesh. Some fans loved seeing the old magic again. Others quickly declared that the once-unstoppable Bollywood star had “fallen too far.”

Now, the actor has finally responded and he’s not amused by the commentary.

When a school function became viral gossip

Earlier this year, videos began circulating online showing Govinda performing at school events in Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh. The clips showed the actor dancing, interacting with students, delivering some of his iconic film dialogues.

The performances happened during annual day celebrations at two schools. Students and their families were thrilled to see him in person. Atmosphere looked festive.

Also Read: Throwback: When Shah Rukh Khan broke silence on being called ‘arrogant’ and why he ‘troubled’ filmmakers

Govinda also performed to one of his popular songs “Main Toh Raste Se Jaa Raha Tha”. At another moment during the event, he even sang “Angna Mein Baba”.

For many people at the event, it was a fun surprise appearance by a beloved star.

But on social media, the conversation quickly took a different turn.

The “small show” debate online

As the videos spread online, some viewers praised Govinda’s energy and his willingness to interact with fans in a casual setting. They said it was refreshing to see a major actor performing so closely with ordinary audiences.

However, others were less kind.

Some critics questioned why a major Bollywood name would perform at school annual day events. A section of social media users even suggested that the actor’s career was declining and that performing at such shows was “not befitting” of his past stardom.

Govinda’s straightforward reply

Speaking on Siddharth Kannan’s podcast, Govinda addressed the controversy directly.

He pushed back against the idea that the events were “small.”

“Wo jinhen chhota keh rahe hain wo ek CM ka hai. Aur second jo hai, Member of Parliament hain. Unhein keh rahe hain,” he said.

In simple terms, Govinda explained that the events people were calling “small” were actually connected to influential figures, one linked to a Chief Minister and another associated with a Member of Parliament.

According to him, the criticism was exaggerated.

Govinda also said that social media tends to create narratives that are not always accurate.

“Social media kisike control mein thodi na hai. Waha jisse chahe sheershak bana dete hain,” he said.