Iran lists India as ‘friendly’ nation, permits passage through Strait of Hormuz

Iran has listed India among a group of “friendly nations” permitted to use the Strait of Hormuz, even as tensions with the US continue to disrupt global energy routes.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Thursday said countries such as India, Pakistan, Iraq, China and Russia have been allowed passage through the strategic waterway. The Consulate General of Iran in Mumbai confirmed the development in a post, stating, “Iran FM Abbas Araghchi: We permitted passage through the Strait of Hormuz for friendly nations including China, Russia, India, Iraq, and Pakistan.” Read full story

‘Not a dalaal nation’: EAM S Jaishankar hits back at Opposition over US-Iran mediation row

The Centre on Wednesday pushed back against Opposition criticism over India’s stance on the ongoing West Asia crisis, with external affairs minister S Jaishankar delivering a pointed remark on Pakistan’s reported role in facilitating talks between the United States and Iran. At an all-party meeting held in the Parliament complex, Jaishankar said, “We are not a dalaal (Broker) nation,” according to sources cited by PTI. The comment came amid reports suggesting that Pakistan could act as a mediator in the US-Iran conflict, a role that US President Donald Trump is said to have endorsed. Jaishankar added that there was “nothing new” about Pakistan’s...Click here to read the full story

Delhi wakes up to pleasant morning; IMD warns of thunderstorms and rain later today

Delhi woke up to a pleasant and slightly cool Thursday morning, with light winds offering brief relief from rising temperatures. However, the day is expected to turn unsettled as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by light rain and possible dust storms. According to IMD, the minimum temperature in the city settled around 17 degrees Celsius, while the maximum is likely to touch 34 degrees Celsius. On Wednesday, the maximum temperature stood at 33.5 degrees Celsius at Safdarjung, which was two degrees above normal. Weather conditions through the day may include sudden gusty winds, brief spells of rain and reduced visibility during dust storms. Read full story

LPG supply to be cut if households skip PNG switch

India has directed households in areas with existing piped natural gas infrastructure to shift from LPG cylinders to PNG connections within a stipulated timeframe, or risk losing access to LPG refills. The move comes as concerns rise over supply disruptions linked to the ongoing West Asia crisis. According to a government order issued under the Essential Commodities Act, households that receive official notice must apply for a PNG connection within three months. If they fail to do so, LPG supply to that address will be discontinued. The notification, titled Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026, requires local gas distributors to inform eligible households through registered or speed post. If a household does not apply for a PNG connection within three months of receiving the notice, “the LPG supply to such address shall cease,” the gazette notification said. The application may be submitted by either the lawful occupier or the owner of the premises. Read full story

Markets shut on Ram Navami

Stock market participants will observe a trading holiday on March 26, 2026, on account of Ram Navami. Both the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and BSE will remain shut for the day, as per the official holiday calendar issued by the NSE. Ram Navami marks the birth of Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Vishnu, and is widely celebrated across India. The festival falls on the ninth day (Navami) of Shukla Paksha in the Chaitra month, typically observed in March or April. Trading activity across multiple segments will remain suspended. This includes equity derivatives, securities lending and borrowing (SLB), currency derivatives, and electronic gold receipts (EGR). Investors and traders should plan their transactions accordingly, as no market operations will take place on Thursday.

Horoscope today

The horoscope for March 26 indicates a mix of progress and caution across zodiac signs. Aries may see easing domestic tensions and new opportunities, while Taurus could benefit from relationships, travel and positive news in career matters. Gemini may experience rising income but face minor obstacles in education and social interactions, whereas Cancer should stay cautious in finances and relationships despite resolving family issues. Leo may clear pending work but avoid investments, while Virgo may see business gains alongside rising work pressure and health concerns. Libra may gain in business and relationships but needs to be careful with finances, and Scorpio may face rising expenses but see gains through property or inheritance. Sagittarius may enjoy sudden financial gains but must stay cautious of risks, Capricorn may deal with stress and challenges at work, Aquarius may benefit in business and relationships with careful decisions, and Pisces may see opportunities in career and finances while staying alert during travel.