India has secured crude oil supplies for the next 60 days despite escalating tensions in the Middle East and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, the government said, asserting that diversified sourcing has more than compensated for any supply risks.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said the country is currently receiving higher volumes of crude from its network of over 41 global suppliers, particularly from the western hemisphere, offsetting any disruption in shipments routed through the Strait. “Despite the situation at the Strait of Hormuz, India is today receiving more crude oil from its 41-plus suppliers across the world than what was previously arriving through the Straits. High volumes available in international markets — especially from the western hemisphere — have more than compensated for any disruption,” the ministry said.

Domestic refiners are operating at peak capacity, with all refineries running at over 100% utilisation. Oil marketing companies have already tied up crude supplies for the next two months, ensuring there is no immediate supply gap, the ministry added.

India currently has a total reserve capacity of 74 days, while the actual stock cover stands at around 60 days. This includes crude oil, petroleum products, and strategic reserves stored in underground caverns, even after nearly four weeks into the West Asia crisis.

The government also highlighted a sharp increase in domestic refinery production, which has increased by about 40%. This has pushed daily LPG output to around 50,000 metric tonnes, meeting over 60% of the country’s demand. As a result, India’s net daily LPG import requirement has dropped to about 30,000 metric tonnes.

To further strengthen supplies, the government said 800,000 metric tonnes of LPG cargoes are already secured and en route from countries including the United States, Russia and Australia. These shipments are being handled across India’s expanded network of 22 LPG import terminals, compared with 11 terminals in 2014.

On the demand side, oil companies are currently delivering more than 50 lakh LPG cylinders per day. Demand, which surged to 89 lakh cylinders amid panic buying, has now stabilised back to normal levels. The government added that commercial LPG cylinder allocations have been increased to 50% in coordination with state authorities to prevent hoarding and black marketing.

Amid concerns about the adequate availability of LPG and CNG among commercial consumers, the Centre has allotted an additional 10 per cent quota to Rajasthan to meet demand.

Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, who was in New Delhi on Wednesday, made a formal request for additional allotment of LPG and CNG to fulfil consumer demand, an official spokesperson said here on Thursday.

“There is no crisis as far as the availability of gas is concerned. We have adequate stock, and consumers should rest assured that we will not put them in trouble of any sort,” the spokesperson said, quoting Chief Minister Sharma.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister has convened an all-party meeting of delegates from all political parties, including the ruling BJP and the principal Opposition Congress, later this evening.

The meeting, under the chairmanship of Sharma, will review the availability and demand situation, as well as the overall supply of gas, petroleum products, and other essential items.

The Congress has already announced that it will hold a demonstration here on Friday to highlight the problems and grievances of consumers.

Since the BJP Government came to power in 2024, the Odisha Vigilance has made a seizure of Rs. 248.91 crore ill-gotten assets and arrested as many as 369 individuals including IAS and State administrative officers under prevention of corruption act, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said.

Asserting the government zero-tolerance policy towards corrupt practices, CM Majhi told the Assembly that the anti-corruption wing of police registered 376 criminal cases against 640 persons including 104 Class-I officers & 78 Class-II officers and arrested 369 persons, which include 75 Class-I officers & 56 Class-II officers since BJP came to power on 12 June, 2024.

This includes action against an IAS officer, 7 Chief Engineers, 2 Divisional Forest Officers, a Sub-Collector, 2 Block Development Officers, 8 Tahasildars, a Joint Commissioner of Excise, two Deputy Directors of Mines, a Deputy Director of Fisheries Department, a DGM, Engineering (Civil), a Joint Commissioner, State Transport Authority, a Joint Director & two Project Directors, Watershed, 4 Civil Supplies Officers, 3 Assistant Commissioners of Commercial Tax &GST, two Superintendents of Excise, a District Labour Officer, a Motor Vehicle Inspector, a District Education Officer, a Deputy Director, Textiles, 26 Police officers, 20 Forest officials, 5 Doctors and a Jail Superintendent and others, he informed the Assembly yesterday.

Out of 376 criminal cases, 100 cases were registered for acquisition of disproportionate assets (DA) against 177 public servants including 54 Class-I officers and 25 Class-II officers.

The total assets seized in all the 100 cases come to Rs. 248.91 crore which include 282 buildings, 1182 plots, Gold 30.50 Kg, deposits over Rs.57.72 crores, and cash seizures of Rs.15.53 crore.

Recently, during a Vigilance raid, huge cash of Rs.4.28 crores has been unearthed and seized from a corrupt public servant accused of demanding and taking bribe from a complainant. This is the highest ever cash seizure in the history of Odisha Vigilance.

Stating the Government has accorded top priority towards prompt investigation and submission of charge-sheets in the detected cases, he claimed that a record number of charge sheets have been submitted in 640 cases against 1466 persons including 166 Class-I officers & 146 Class-II officers.

The disposal of DA cases in 2025 was the highest ever in the history of Odisha Vigilance. In 2025, the State government accorded the largest ever number of sanctions for prosecution.

During this period, 183 cases have ended in conviction against 34 Class-I officers & 38 Class-II officers. Altogether, 246 accused persons have been convicted during the period. Conviction rate in Vigilance cases has been around 50%.

Also, 35 public servants have been dismissed from Govt. service and pension of 70 retired public servants has been stopped, consequent upon their conviction in Vigilance cases.

During this period, 387 enquiries have also been initiated against 65 Class-I officers & 58 Class-II officers on their alleged involvement in various acts of corruption/ malpractices.

In order to strengthen Vigilance administration in the State, the government has already initiated steps for further expansion and modernization of Odisha Vigilance, he concluded.

Delhi Assembly Speaker on Thursday highlighted the significance of India’s rich cultural heritage, especially the timeless Gurukul tradition, after inaugurating the new Yagyashala at the Arsh Gurukul in North West Delhi’s Tatesar village.

Gupta and remarked that at a time when the society seems to be drifting away from its roots in the race for modernity, institutions like the Gurukul serve as beacon lights in preserving country’s traditions and values.

He said the occasion is not only a matter of pride for the Gurukul family but also for the broader Sanatan cultural ethos and the country’s traditional system of education.
Referring to the Gurukul campus, Gaushala, and the emphasis on yoga and spiritual discipline, Gupta noted that the environment reflects the essence of Indian philosophy and holistic living.

He emphasized that the true confluence of ‘Shiksha’ (education) and ‘Diksha’ (initiation into values) can be experienced in Gurukul system, where students are nurtured not only with academic knowledge but also with the strong moral and ethical grounding.

On the occasion, the Delhi Assembly Speaker also addressed the graduating students, stating that as they step into a new phase of life, they carry significant responsibilities towards society and the nation. He urged them to imbibe the values and teachings imparted by their gurus and to contribute meaningfully to nation-building and social service.
Gupta, while inaugurating the Yagyashala remarked that it is not a mere physical structure but a sacred space symbolizing purity of thought and the spirit of selflessness ‘Idam Na Mam’, which inspires collective welfare.

He lauded the efforts of the institution affiliated with the Maharshi Sandipani Rashtriya Ved Vidya Pratishthan in promoting Vedic knowledge, and also congratulated Acharya Jitendra and the entire Gurukul family for their commendable work.

Jharkhand has declared snakebite a notifiable disease, making it mandatory for all government and private health institutions to report every case and death.

The decision was notified by the Health, Medical Education and Family Welfare Department through Notification No. 21-NHM(HD)-12-04/2025-28(21) dated March 2.

Officials said the move is aimed at improving surveillance, treatment response and data collection in a state where snakebite cases rise during the monsoon and humid summer months, particularly in rural, tribal and agricultural areas.

Health authorities said under-reporting and delayed treatment have remained major concerns, especially in remote regions where many victims still rely on traditional healing practices instead of seeking immediate medical care.

Under the new framework, all health institutions, including private hospitals, medical colleges, corporate healthcare providers, railway, army and AYUSH institutions, will be required to maintain records of snakebite cases and upload them through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme’s Integrated Health Information Platform (IDSP-IHIP).

Institutions have also been directed to maintain a dedicated register and submit fortnightly reports to the Civil Surgeon by the fifth and 20th of every month. District authorities will then send consolidated reports to the department by the 10th of each month.

Officials said the objective is to generate reliable district-level data, identify high-risk areas and improve planning for anti-snake venom supply, emergency response and public awareness.

The move aligns with the Government of India’s National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming 2030, which aims to reduce snakebite-related deaths and disability by 50 per cent.

Jharkhand had already initiated a snakebite prevention and control programme in the 2024-25 financial year, under which anti-snake venom availability was to be ensured from medical colleges to primary health centres.

Additional Chief Secretary Ajay Kumar Singh has directed compliance with the National Snakebite Management Protocol and said awareness efforts would be intensified at the community level.

The notification has come into immediate effect, and institutions failing to comply with the reporting requirement may face action under the applicable provisions.

The Indian skeet shooting team will begin its campaign at the ISSF Shotgun World Cup Tangier 2026 on Friday at the Club Tangérois de Tir. The tournament marks the opening event of the 2026 international shotgun shooting season and has attracted a strong field featuring several Olympic and world champions.

The skeet competition will begin with 75 targets for both men and women on the opening day, followed by 50 targets and the finals on Sunday.

India has fielded the maximum quota of six shooters each in the men’s and women’s events, along with two additional athletes in both categories competing for ranking points.

The women’s competition features a star-studded lineup led by reigning Olympic champion Francisca Crovetto Chadid of Chile, who is returning to international competition after maternity leave. She will be joined by the current world champion Samantha Simonton of the United States. Also in the fray are Italy’s double Olympic and double world champion Diana Bacosi, former world champion Dania Jo Vizzi of the USA and Kazakhstan’s world championship medallist Assem Orynbay.

India’s women’s squad includes Olympian Maheshwari Chauhan along with siblings Darshana Rathore and Yashasvi Rathore. Yashasvi, the younger of the two sisters, finished runner-up at the 68th National Championships and also secured silver in the junior category at the Asian Championships in Shymkent last year. Areeba Khan and Mansi Raghuwanshi will participate in the event for ranking points.

The men’s skeet competition features a strong 82-shooter field. Among the leading contenders are 2025 World Championship bronze medallist Emil Kjeldgaard Petersen of Denmark, World Cup Final winner Christian Elliot of the USA, Italy’s double Olympic champion Gabriele Rossetti and Tokyo Olympic silver medallist Jesper Hansen of Denmark. Also in contention is Qatar’s former world champion and Asian Games gold medallist Masoud Saleh Al-Athba.

India’s challenge in the men’s event will be led by experienced shooters Man Singh and Parampal Singh Guron, alongside Jyotiraditya Singh Sisodiya, who will be making his senior international debut.

Man Singh, a former Asian champion, returns to the national squad after a three-year gap, while Parampal last represented India in 2022. Sisodiya had earlier won junior bronze at the Asian Championships in Shymkent and will now look to make an impression at the senior level.
Sukhbir Singh Harika and junior national champion Harmehar Singh Lally will compete for ranking points.

Meanwhile, Angad Vir Singh Bajwa, who represented India until last year, will be competing for Canada for the first time.

In a unique blend of tradition and tourism, Ladakh has steered its transport sector towards cultural pride, with commercial drivers now set to don traditional attire while on duty—turning everyday travel into an immersive cultural experience for visitors.

In pursuance of the directions of Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, the Regional Transport Officer (RTO), Ladakh, has issued a circular mandating the wearing of traditional Ladakhi attire by all commercial drivers while on duty across the Union Territory, including Leh and Kargil.

The directive applies to all categories of transport vehicles, including taxis, buses, tempo travellers, trucks, mini trucks and other commercial carriers. The initiative aims to promote Ladakh’s rich cultural heritage and enhance the overall experience of tourists visiting the region.

This decision follows a meeting held on 17 March at the Lieutenant Governor’s Secretariat, wherein a delegation of tourism stakeholders comprising members of the All Ladakh Tour Operators Association (ALTOA), All Ladakh Hotel and Guest House Association (ALHGHA) and All Kargil Travel Trade Association (AKTTA) called on the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor.

During the interaction, the Lieutenant Governor underscored the importance of preserving and promoting Ladakh’s unique cultural identity. He suggested that drivers associated with the tourism sector adopt traditional attire, such as the Goncha, while on duty, as a reflection of pride in local culture and heritage.

Reiterating his vision, the Lieutenant Governor has appealed to all commercial drivers to adhere to the directions in letter and spirit. He emphasised that the initiative is not merely regulatory in nature but an opportunity for stakeholders to actively showcase Ladakh’s vibrant traditions and cultural richness to visitors from across the country and the world.

Saxena stressed that such initiatives will contribute significantly towards strengthening cultural tourism, enhancing the authenticity of visitor experiences, and reinforcing Ladakh’s identity as a unique and culturally rich destination.

Days after urging states to act proactively to safeguard the interests of people amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will Friday hold a virtual meeting with chief ministers to discuss the situation and review the preparedness.

The discussions during the meeting are expected to focus on coordinated efforts to navigate the crisis. The meeting is also aimed at ensuring synergy in efforts in the spirit of ‘Team India’.

PM Modi will also brief chief ministers on the current situation and seek broader consensus on India’s approach to the crisis.

However, CMs of poll-bound states shall not be a part of the meeting due to the Model Code of Conduct and a separate meeting for Chief Secretaries of election-bound states will be held through the Cabinet Secretariat.

Earlier on Tuesday, PM Modi warned that the impact of the conflict could be “long-lasting” and urged citizens of the country to brace for economic challenges that may lie ahead.

Addressing the Rajya Sabha on the issue of the Middle East conflict amid concerns over its potential impact on India, Modi urged citizens to be prepared for every challenge.

“The impact of this war may be long-lasting, but I assure the people that the government is alert and the nation’s interest remains paramount,” he said.

He added that “the challenges ahead will test us” and urged states to act proactively and take steps to safeguard migrant workers.

“The challenges ahead will test us. I urge all states to act proactively, as in difficult times it is labourers and the weaker sections who are affected the most. Steps must be taken to safeguard our migrant workers,” he said.

The Prime Minister also asked state governments to remain vigilant against black marketing.

“State governments should also remain vigilant against black marketing, which tends to rise in such periods, and ensure that such practices do not take place,” he added.

In the wake of the ongoing developments in West Asia, the Union government on Thursday said raids continue to be carried out in many of the states and Union Territories to check the hoardings and black marketing of LPG.

The Government of India has been emphasising the role of states/UTs in containing hoarding, black marketing, and rumour mongering, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said on Thursday.

Under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 and LPG Control Order, 2000, the state government is empowered to act against hoarding and black marketing. Governments of states/UTs have to play a primary role in monitoring and regulating supply of essential commodities, including Petrol, Diesel, and LPG.

“Govt. of India has reiterated the same vide letter dated 13.03.2026 and 18.03.2026 to all States/UTs,” the Ministry said.

“More than 2600 raids have been conducted, and more than 450 cylinders have been seized in Delhi, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana, etc. yesterday,” the Ministry said.

In light of the ongoing West Asia conflict, the Government of India continues to closely monitor the situation and is taking necessary preparedness and response measures to ensure stability across critical sectors. With the Strait of Hormuz remaining closed, it has taken a series of measures to maintain uninterrupted supply of petroleum products and LPG across the country. “All refineries are operating at high capacity, with adequate crude inventories in place. The country is also maintaining sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel,” the Ministry further said.

Domestic LPG production from refineries has been increased to support domestic consumption. All Retail outlets are operating normally across the country.

“There were certain rumours which led to panic buying at some retail outlets in a few states, resulting in unusually high sales and heavy crowding at Retail outlets. However, it is informed that there are adequate stocks of petrol and diesel available at all Petrol Pumps in the country. The government reiterates its advice to the public not to believe rumours,” the Ministry added.

The Ministry noted that the supply of LPG has been affected due to the prevailing geopolitical situation, but domestic deliveries remain normal. “No reported dry-out at LPG distributorships” has been reported so far, and the “delivery of Domestic LPG Cylinders is normal,” it said.

To support essential sectors, the government has increased the allocation of commercial LPG to states and union territories.

“Government of India has allowed another 20% allocation of commercial LPG to States, which would take overall allocation to 50%,” the statement said, adding that priority sectors include “restaurants, dhabas, hotels, industrial canteens, food processing/dairy, subsidised canteens/outlets run by State Govt or local bodies for food, community kitchens, 5 Kg FTL for migrant labourers.”

The ministry said that more than 37,000 small LPG cylinders were sold on Wednesday.

The government has also allocated additional kerosene to states to ease pressure on LPG demand. “Additional allocation of 48000 KL of Kerosene over and above the regular allocation has been made to all the States/UTs,” the ministry said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had a tense mid-air experience on Thursday evening after her aircraft was unable to land at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport due to inclement weather, forcing it to circle in the sky for nearly one and a half hours. Banerjee, who was returning to Kolkata after concluding her election campaign in West Burdwan and Birbhum districts, was travelling in a small private jet from Andal.

The aircraft took off from Andal airport at around 3:39 pm and was scheduled to land in Kolkata by 4 pm. However, sudden deterioration in weather conditions over the airport disrupted the landing schedule.

According to airport sources, heavy rain accompanied by strong gusty winds lashed the area surrounding the airport, significantly reducing visibility and making it unsafe for landing operations. As a result, air traffic control did not grant clearance for landing, leading to prolonged uncertainty over the aircraft’s status.

During this period, Banerjee remained airborne as the aircraft kept circling over the city and adjoining areas. Sources indicated that the pilot made multiple attempts to land as weather conditions showed brief signs of improvement. At one point, the aircraft approached the airport for descent, but worsening conditions forced the pilot to abort the attempt and change course.

Data from flight tracking platform FlightRadar24 suggested that the aircraft was diverted towards the Behala region and made at least three attempts to land at the Behala Flying Club. However, these attempts were unsuccessful due to adverse weather, prompting the pilot to return towards Kolkata airport once conditions marginally improved.

Airport authorities stated that flight operations remained suspended for a considerable period, with no aircraft able to take off or land during the peak of the storm. Officials also monitored the fuel status of the Chief Minister’s aircraft, as the availability of adequate fuel was a crucial factor in determining its movement and potential diversion to an alternate airport if required. Meanwhile, the situation on the ground also reflected the severity of the storm. A stage prepared at the airport premises for Banerjee’s interaction with the media after landing was reportedly damaged due to strong winds.

Several parts of the city experienced intense rainfall and squally weather from the afternoon onwards, in line with earlier forecasts issued by the meteorological department. “After nearly 90 minutes of circling, the aircraft finally received clearance to land as weather conditions improved slightly. It touched down safely at around 5:19 pm,” senior official of the airport told The Statesman.

Following her arrival, the Chief Minister left the airport by car. Though she briefly acknowledged the presence of media personnel by waving, she did not make any formal statement regarding the incident. Banerjee had begun her election campaign tour across districts earlier this week. On Thursday, she addressed public meetings in Pandaveswar in West Burdwan and Dubrajpur in Birbhum before heading back to Kolkata. While she has no scheduled rallies on Friday, her campaign is set to resume on Saturday.

HL West Bengal: Mamata Banerjee has tense mid-air experience, plane circles Kolkata airport for 90 minutes

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has released the full schedule for the TATA IPL 2026, confirming a packed league phase featuring 70 matches across multiple venues in India.

The tournament will run from March 28 to May 24, 2026, with matches spread across 12 cities, including Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Jaipur, Dharamsala, Raipur, and New Chandigarh.

The schedule features double-headers on select days, with afternoon matches at 3:30 PM IST and evening fixtures at 7:30 PM IST.

Below is the complete match list for IPL 2026:

IPL 2026 Full Match Schedule

• March 28, 2026 (Sat) – Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Sunrisers Hyderabad | Bengaluru | 7:30 PM
• March 29, 2026 (Sun) – Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders | Mumbai | 7:30 PM
• March 30, 2026 (Mon) – Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings | Guwahati | 7:30 PM
• March 31, 2026 (Tue) – Punjab Kings vs Gujarat Titans | New Chandigarh | 7:30 PM
• April 1, 2026 (Wed) – Lucknow Super Giants vs Delhi Capitals | Lucknow | 7:30 PM
• April 2, 2026 (Thu) – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad | Kolkata | 7:30 PM
• April 3, 2026 (Fri) – Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings | Chennai | 7:30 PM
• April 4, 2026 (Sat) – Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians | Delhi | 3:30 PM
• April 4, 2026 (Sat) – Gujarat Titans vs Rajasthan Royals | Ahmedabad | 7:30 PM
• April 5, 2026 (Sun) – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Lucknow Super Giants | Hyderabad | 3:30 PM
• April 5, 2026 (Sun) – Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Chennai Super Kings | Bengaluru | 7:30 PM
• April 6, 2026 (Mon) – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings | Kolkata | 7:30 PM
• April 7, 2026 (Tue) – Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians | Guwahati | 7:30 PM
• April 8, 2026 (Wed) – Delhi Capitals vs Gujarat Titans | Delhi | 7:30 PM
• April 9, 2026 (Thu) – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Lucknow Super Giants | Kolkata | 7:30 PM
• April 10, 2026 (Fri) – Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Guwahati | 7:30 PM
• April 11, 2026 (Sat) – Punjab Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad | New Chandigarh | 3:30 PM
• April 11, 2026 (Sat) – Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals | Chennai | 7:30 PM
• April 12, 2026 (Sun) – Lucknow Super Giants vs Gujarat Titans | Lucknow | 3:30 PM
• April 12, 2026 (Sun) – Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Mumbai | 7:30 PM
• April 13, 2026 (Mon) – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals | Hyderabad | 7:30 PM
• April 14, 2026 (Tue) – Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders | Chennai | 7:30 PM
• April 15, 2026 (Wed) – Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Lucknow Super Giants | Bengaluru | 7:30 PM
• April 16, 2026 (Thu) – Mumbai Indians vs Punjab Kings | Mumbai | 7:30 PM
• April 17, 2026 (Fri) – Gujarat Titans vs Kolkata Knight Riders | Ahmedabad | 7:30 PM
• April 18, 2026 (Sat) – Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Delhi Capitals | Bengaluru | 3:30 PM
• April 18, 2026 (Sat) – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings | Hyderabad | 7:30 PM
• April 19, 2026 (Sun) – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals | Kolkata | 3:30 PM
• April 19, 2026 (Sun) – Punjab Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants | New Chandigarh | 7:30 PM
• April 20, 2026 (Mon) – Gujarat Titans vs Mumbai Indians | Ahmedabad | 7:30 PM
• April 21, 2026 (Tue) – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Delhi Capitals | Hyderabad | 7:30 PM
• April 22, 2026 (Wed) – Lucknow Super Giants vs Rajasthan Royals | Lucknow | 7:30 PM
• April 23, 2026 (Thu) – Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings | Mumbai | 7:30 PM
• April 24, 2026 (Fri) – Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Gujarat Titans | Bengaluru | 7:30 PM
• April 25, 2026 (Sat) – Delhi Capitals vs Punjab Kings | Delhi | 3:30 PM
• April 25, 2026 (Sat) – Rajasthan Royals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad | Jaipur | 7:30 PM
• April 26, 2026 (Sun) – Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings | Ahmedabad | 3:30 PM
• April 26, 2026 (Sun) – Lucknow Super Giants vs Kolkata Knight Riders | Lucknow | 7:30 PM
• April 27, 2026 (Mon) – Delhi Capitals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Delhi | 7:30 PM
• April 28, 2026 (Tue) – Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals | New Chandigarh | 7:30 PM
• April 29, 2026 (Wed) – Mumbai Indians vs Sunrisers Hyderabad | Mumbai | 7:30 PM
• April 30, 2026 (Thu) – Gujarat Titans vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Ahmedabad | 7:30 PM
• May 1, 2026 (Fri) – Rajasthan Royals vs Delhi Capitals | Jaipur | 7:30 PM
• May 2, 2026 (Sat) – Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians | Chennai | 7:30 PM
• May 3, 2026 (Sun) – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Kolkata Knight Riders | Hyderabad | 3:30 PM
• May 3, 2026 (Sun) – Gujarat Titans vs Punjab Kings | Ahmedabad | 7:30 PM
• May 4, 2026 (Mon) – Mumbai Indians vs Lucknow Super Giants | Mumbai | 7:30 PM
• May 5, 2026 (Tue) – Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings | Delhi | 7:30 PM
• May 6, 2026 (Wed) – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings | Hyderabad | 7:30 PM
• May 7, 2026 (Thu) – Lucknow Super Giants vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Lucknow | 7:30 PM
• May 8, 2026 (Fri) – Delhi Capitals vs Kolkata Knight Riders | Delhi | 7:30 PM
• May 9, 2026 (Sat) – Rajasthan Royals vs Gujarat Titans | Jaipur | 7:30 PM
• May 10, 2026 (Sun) – Chennai Super Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants | Chennai | 3:30 PM
• May 10, 2026 (Sun) – Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Mumbai Indians | Raipur | 7:30 PM
• May 11, 2026 (Mon) – Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals | Dharamshala | 7:30 PM
• May 12, 2026 (Tue) – Gujarat Titans vs Sunrisers Hyderabad | Ahmedabad | 7:30 PM
• May 13, 2026 (Wed) – Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Kolkata Knight Riders | Raipur | 7:30 PM
• May 14, 2026 (Thu) – Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians | Dharamshala | 7:30 PM
• May 15, 2026 (Fri) – Lucknow Super Giants vs Chennai Super Kings | Lucknow | 7:30 PM
• May 16, 2026 (Sat) – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Gujarat Titans | Kolkata | 7:30 PM
• May 17, 2026 (Sun) – Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Dharamshala | 3:30 PM
• May 17, 2026 (Sun) – Delhi Capitals vs Rajasthan Royals | Delhi | 7:30 PM
• May 18, 2026 (Mon) – Chennai Super Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad | Chennai | 7:30 PM
• May 19, 2026 (Tue) – Rajasthan Royals vs Lucknow Super Giants | Jaipur | 7:30 PM
• May 20, 2026 (Wed) – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Mumbai Indians | Kolkata | 7:30 PM
• May 21, 2026 (Thu) – Chennai Super Kings vs Gujarat Titans | Chennai | 7:30 PM
• May 22, 2026 (Fri) – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Hyderabad | 7:30 PM
• May 23, 2026 (Sat) – Lucknow Super Giants vs Punjab Kings | Lucknow | 7:30 PM
• May 24, 2026 (Sun) – Mumbai Indians vs Rajasthan Royals | Mumbai | 3:30 PM
• May 24, 2026 (Sun) – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Delhi Capitals | Kolkata | 7:30 PM

In a strong rebuttal to swirling online rumours and panic-inducing videos, the government on Thursday issued an unambiguous assurance that India faces no shortage of petrol, diesel or LPG, warning that a “deliberately mischievous, coordinated campaign of misinformation” is attempting to mislead the public and trigger needless anxiety.

In a detailed statement, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas declared, “India’s petroleum and LPG supply situation is fully secure and under control. All retail fuel outlets have enough supplies. There is no shortage of petrol, diesel, or LPG anywhere in the country.” The ministry urged citizens “not to be misled” by fabricated claims circulating on social media.

Calling India “an oasis of energy security,” the ministry underscored the country’s position as the world’s fourth-largest refiner and fifth-largest exporter of petroleum products, supplying fuel to over 150 nations. “Since India is a net exporter, domestic availability remains structurally secure,” the ministry said.

All one lakh-plus retail fuel outlets are operating normally, and the government stressed that “not a single outlet has been asked to ration supply.” While several nations abroad have imposed rationing, odd-even restrictions, or even declared energy emergencies, “India does not feel the need for any such measures,” the ministry stated.

Isolated queues at select pumps, it noted, were a result of panic buying triggered by manipulated videos. Even in these cases, fuel was supplied to all consumers, with oil company depots working overnight to replenish stocks. Credit limits for pumps have also been enhanced from one day to over three days to ensure smooth operations.

Dispelling fears of supply disruptions due to tensions near the Strait of Hormuz, the Ministry affirmed that India is currently receiving more crude from its 41-plus global suppliers than before, with every refinery operating at over 100 per cent utilisation.

With crude supplies secured for the next 60 days, the ministry asserted, “There is no supply gap.”

Dismissing viral claims that India has only six days of fuel stock, the government clarified that the country has 74 days of total reserve capacity, with an actual cover of around 60 days even on Day 27 of the Middle East crisis.

“Any representation that India’s reserves are depleted or insufficient should be dismissed with the disdain it deserves,” the ministry said.

Countering suggestions of a looming LPG crisis, the ministry emphatically said, “There is no LPG shortage.” Domestic refinery production has been raised by 40 per cent, taking output to 50 TMT per day, covering more than 60 per cent of the national requirement.

Daily import needs have fallen to 30 TMT, and 800 TMT of assured cargoes from the US, Russia, Australia and others are already en route to India’s 22 LPG import terminals, double the number available in 2014.

Oil companies continue to deliver over 50 lakh cylinders daily, even as demand, which had surged to 89 lakh due to panic orders, has now stabilised. To prevent hoarding, states have coordinated to raise commercial cylinder allocations to 50 per cent.

Clarifying claims that Piped Natural Gas (PNG) is being promoted due to LPG shortages, the ministry reiterated that the ongoing transition has long been part of India’s clean energy strategy.

PNG is “cheaper, cleaner and safer,” with connections expanding from 25 lakh in 2014 to over 1.5 crore today, and city gas networks covering over 300 geographical areas.

“The claim that PNG is being pushed because LPG is running out is misinformation. LPG supply is secure,” the ministry emphasised.

The ministry expressed “serious concern” over viral posts using selectively edited images of queues, foreign news footage, and fabricated claims of emergency fuel measures to create a false narrative of crisis in India.

It noted that some creators have even misrepresented routine administrative orders, such as the Natural Gas Control Order and LPG Control Order, as emergency declarations.

“This misinformation is being spread by miscreants and amplified by motivated elements,” the ministry warned, stressing that spreading falsehoods about essential commodities is an offence.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Thursday greeted the residents of the national capital on the occasion of Ram Navmi, a festival celebrated to mark the birth anniversary of Lord Ram.
On the occasion, Rekha Gupta prayed Lord Ram to bless every home with happiness, peace, and excellent health.

Taking to social media platform X, she wrote, “May this great festival of propriety and truth bring new energy and joy to all your lives.”
She said that the entire life of Lord Ram, a symbol of the victory of righteousness over unrighteousness and truth over falsehood, is an unparalleled ideal of patience, sacrifice, penance, and public welfare.

According to Gupta, Lord Ram’s ideals inspire us to build a society with harmony, where values are upheld and dignity of every citizen is assured. “Inspired by these very ideals, we are steadfastly moving forward with the resolve to build a developed, value-driven, and prosperous Delhi.”

“The vision of ‘Ram Rajya’ continuously inspires us to build a just and prosperous society,” she said.
Performing Kanya Pujan (propeciating girl child) on the occasion, Gupta said daughters are the symbols of good fortune, embodiments of strength, and the sacred blessings of a mother. Worshipping daughters on the occasion filled her heart with a profound emotion.
She further said that the occasion of Durga Ashtami teaches us that every daughter embodies the radiant form of the primordial divine energy, while the affection and honour of daughters infuses life with purity and auspiciousness.

The CM shared that her prayer to Durga Maa is that she continues to shower her grace upon all and the light of happiness and prosperity prevail in every home.
Meanwhile, several women-centric initiatives are lined up by the city government in the budget for the financial year 2026-2027. These initiatives in line with making the women financially independent, the CM had said, will empower them.

One of the initiatives is the ‘Pink Auto’ scheme aimed at ensuring economic independence of women. Under the scheme, the government will issue 1,000 new auto permits to women. The auto rickshaws, driven by women, offer them dignified gainful employment and greater self-reliance.

The Haryana Health Department has approved the establishment of an HIV viral load testing laboratory at Civil Hospital, Panchkula. With this, Haryana will have its second dedicated facility, the first being located in Rohtak.

This was informed by Additional Chief Secretary, Health & Family Welfare, Dr Sumita Misra, who said the laboratory has been approved at an annual cost of Rs 1.65 crore, based on an estimated workload of approximately 15,000 HIV viral load tests per year.

In a cost-efficient move, the new laboratory will be set up by utilising the existing Covid-19 molecular testing infrastructure already in place at Civil Hospital, Panchkula, along with the procurement of additional equipment specific to HIV viral load testing. This approach ensures that the facility can be made operational quickly, without the need for constructing an entirely new set-up.

The project was developed on the basis of inputs provided by the Haryana State AIDS Control Society (HSACS), while the technical evaluation was independently conducted by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) — the apex body governing HIV/AIDS response in the country. The cost per HIV viral load test has been set at Rs 1,100, in line with national guidelines.

Notably, the entire expenditure for setting up and operating the testing facility will be funded by the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO), with no financial liability falling on the Haryana state government. This makes the initiative both fiscally prudent and replicable — a model that other states could adopt to expand HIV diagnostic capacity without straining their own budgets, Dr Misra added.

For HIV-positive individuals, regular viral load testing is not optional — it is essential. These tests help doctors determine whether antiretroviral therapy (ART) is working effectively, detect treatment failure early, and prevent the virus from developing drug resistance.

Without timely access to viral load testing, patients face delayed interventions and poorer health outcomes. Currently, samples from all districts of Haryana are sent to PGIMS Rohtak. This new laboratory will significantly decrease the time for testing and will result in better monitoring of HIV positive patients.

Dr Misra said the establishment of the lab will significantly enhance access to timely HIV diagnostic services and monitoring, benefiting patients who require regular viral load testing and strengthening the overall response to HIV/AIDS in Haryana.

The Panchkula HIV viral load lab is part of a wider effort by the Haryana government to decentralise specialised healthcare services and bring them closer to underserved populations. By repurposing existing infrastructure, partnering with national bodies, and ensuring zero cost to the state, this initiative reflects a model of efficient, patient-centred governance.

With an estimated 15,000 tests to be conducted annually, the laboratory is expected to become a critical node in Haryana’s HIV care and treatment network, reducing diagnostic delays, supporting better treatment monitoring, and ultimately saving lives.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, during a visit to the Sarvodaya Vidyalaya on Thursday, gave away 1100 bicycles to schoolgirls on the occasion of Durga Ashtami.
Addressing Class X students of the school in their classroom during the visit, Rekha Gupta called them ‘daughters are divine’. Receiving bicycles from the chief minister, several students were overwhelmed with emotion, expressing gratitude to her.

Addressing the gathering during an event organised on the Sarvodaya Vidyalaya campus in Pitampura to mark Durga Ashtmai, Gupta described daughters as divine and said Navratri is not just about worship, but also about reaffirming respect for girls and committing to their empowerment.

Referring to the recently presented Delhi Budget, she said her government has prioritised schemes for girls, and women to make them self-reliant.
During her interaction with the girls, a student said she had not even imagined meeting the CM personally. She said she felt encouraged by the the government’s initiatives for girls.
Another student, whiloe expressing her gratitude to the chief minister for the bicycle scheme, exclaimed that she no longer has to face the challenge she used to while commuting to the school. Transport in the city has been something that had made things a little difficult for her and other girls when it came to reaching school, etc.

On the occasion, the CM mentioned about the Lakhpati Bitiya Yojana, sharing that the government will now lay the financial foundation for every girl born in the national capital. She explained how as part of the scheme, a financial assistance will be deposited directly into a girl’s account in phases, starting from the birth of a girl child, and then classes 1, 6, 9, 12, and every year in college. By the time a girl graduates, she will receive around Rs 1.25 lakh to help her move forward with confidence and independence in life and career.

Gupta stated that based on feedback from the students, it has been revealed that commuting difficulties often disrupted studies, and in some cases even led to dropout. To address this crucial concern, the government decided to provide bicycles to all girls entering Class IX every year, with the benefit going to be extended to around 1.3 lakh students annually.

She clarified that while Class 9 students will receive bicycles under the government scheme, the bicycles given to Class 10 students at the event were part of her personal initiative.
Gupta instilled confidence in the girls, stating that they are going to complete their education based on their own strength.

Resonding to the criticism of the scheme, the CM called it unfortunate and shameful to make objectionable remarks about initiatives meant for girls. “Our daughters are like goddesses. Questioning schemes for their future reflects a regrettable mindset,” she added.
Sharing the lessons that learned from her father, she told the girls that they must stand firm in the face of challenges that come their way. Gupta assured them of the Delhi government’s commitment to their safety and progress. “Aim high, make your parents, society, and the nation proud.”

In another important initiative aimed to boost economic independence of Delhi’s women, Gupta announced 1,000 new autorickshaw permits to women. These ‘Pink Autos’ will be driven by women, offering them dignified employment and greater self-reliance,” she added.

Underlining the need to maintain uninterrupted LPG supply for key hospitality, healthcare, and education sectors across Leh and Kargil, Chief Secretary of Ladakh Ashish Kundra on Thursday stressed harnessing the power of digital tools for streamlining commercial LPG distribution through a centralized, Google-based monitoring system.

Chairing a high-level meeting, Kundra emphasized the use of Google Sheets/Excel-linked data systems to track supply in real time, enhance transparency, and ensure equitable allocation across key sectors across Ladakh.

The Chief Secretary reviewed the status of the existing data management system, including dispatch records, auto-populated distribution entries, and district-wise supply details, particularly for Leh and Kargil districts.

Emphasizing the need for proper documentation and real-time monitoring, the Chief Secretary directed that daily dispatch and distribution data, especially for the hotel sector, be maintained systematically. He instructed the concerned departments to ensure that lifting data, market-wise supply, and daily allocation records are updated regularly in the digital database for better oversight and transparency.

During the review, it was decided that 70 percent of the available commercial LPG quota shall be reserved for hotels, while the remaining 30 percent shall be allocated to other commercial consumers, keeping in view the current demand pattern and sectoral requirements.
The Chief Secretary further instructed the Secretary, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA) to issue necessary orders based on the consolidated average daily distribution data from April to June of the previous year, so that future allocations can be made on a rational and need-based basis.

In order to regulate supply and avoid undue pressure on the existing quota, the Chief Secretary also directed that new commercial LPG registrations/connections for hotels shall remain temporarily closed until further review. He also took stock of LPG reservation and supply requirements for key public service sectors such as hospitals and educational institutions.
Himanshu Sharma, State Level Coordinator (SLC), Oil Industry, J&K and Ladakh, joined the meeting virtually and assured the administration that the oil industry would work closely with the UT Administration to address all supply and distribution-related concerns in a timely manner.
Representatives from IOCL, BPCL, and HPCL, along with other stakeholders from the oil and LPG sector, raised several operational concerns during the meeting. These included issues related to criteria for supply to hotels, required documentation, consumption assessment, OTP-based delivery challenges in remote areas, and concerns regarding black marketing and misuse.
The Chief Secretary assured all stakeholders that these issues would be taken up with the concerned authorities and resolved through appropriate administrative intervention and policy support.

The deadline for withdrawal of nominations for Assam, Kerala and Pudicherry and bye-elections in four States of Goa, Karnataka, Nagaland and Tripura ended at 3 PM on Thursday, finalising the list of candidates set to contest across key states and Union Territories.

The Election Commission of India said the scrutiny of nominations has been completed, leaving over 2,200 candidates in the fray for the upcoming polls in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, and five Assembly constituencies across four states going for bye-elections. The poll schedule was announced on March 15, with voting in the first phase slated for April 9, 2026.

According to the Commission, 2,140 candidates remain in contention across 296 Assembly constituencies in the three poll-bound regions, with Assam accounting for 789 candidates across 126 seats, Kerala 985 candidates across 140 seats, and Puducherry 366 candidates across 30 seats. In the bye-elections, a total of 66 candidates are contesting across five constituencies in Goa, Karnataka, Nagaland, and Tripura.

“The scrutiny of nominations was conducted by the Returning Officers in the presence of candidates and their authorised agents, and the entire process was video-graphed to ensure transparency,” the ECI said in a press note. It added that lists of validly nominated candidates, along with their photographs, have been displayed on official notice boards for public access.

The last date for filing nominations for Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry, along with bye-elections in four states, was March 23. Scrutiny was carried out on March 24 and concluded on Thursday, paving the way for the finalisation of candidates after the withdrawal window closed at 3 PM.

With the nomination process now complete, the electoral contest is set to intensify in the run-up to polling, as political parties prepare for campaigning across the poll-bound states.