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LIVELatest India News LIVE: PM Modi speaks to Iran President, govt eases ration stress, 8-year-old dies after falling into 20-ft pit and more

Catch all the latest updates on Delhi’s unusual late-March fog, IMD’s nationwide thunderstorm alert, the Centre debunking the ‘3,000 Ukrainians’ claim, Air India’s flight U-turn, ration relief measures, a child’s tragic death, today’s horoscope and other key developments across India.

By Pritha Chakraborty

Mar 21, 2026 10:43 IST
2026-03-21 17:44

PM Modi speaks to Iran President amid West Asia tensions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday held a telephonic conversation with Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, marking their second call since the conflict in West Asia began on February 28. The leaders exchanged greetings on the occasions of Eid and Nowruz, while also discussing the evolving regional situation. In an X post t, Modi said, “Spoke with President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian and conveyed Eid and Nowruz greetings. We expressed hope that this festive season brings peace, stability and prosperity to West Asia.”...Click here to read the full story

2026-03-21 17:12

Delhi to get zodiac and myth-inspired forests? Govt unveils unique green plan

The Delhi government is working on a new initiative to increase green cover in the city through a series of themed forests, also referred to as "special vans". These planned spaces aim to combine ecological benefits with cultural and traditional concepts, offering both environmental and educational value, reported Hindustan Times. The project will be developed across select areas in the Central and South Ridge, covering more than two acres of land. Officials say the idea is to create green spaces that not only support biodiversity but also reflect India's cultural heritage... Read full story

2026-03-21 16:07

US using India to attack Iran? MEA issues strong 'fake news' warning

India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a firm clarification after a viral social media post claimed that the United States was seeking permission to use Indian territory for military operations against Iran. The Ministry labelled the claim as false and urged people to avoid spreading unverified information. The clarification was shared through the MEA's official fact-check handle on X. Responding to the circulating claim, the Ministry stated, "Fake News Alert! Please stay alert against such false and baseless claims and posts on social media!"

2026-03-21 16:06

Centre to table CAPF Bill on March 23

The Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026, is likely to be tabled in the Lok Sabha on March 23, proposing a structured framework for IPS deputation across senior ranks in CAPFs. The bill seeks to bring an umbrella law governing recruitment, promotion and service conditions across all five forces. The move comes months after a Supreme Court judgment in May 2025 directed the government to “progressively reduce” IPS deputation in CAPFs, acknowledging long-standing concerns of cadre officers over career block. Read full story

2026-03-21 14:08

IMD issues nationwide severe thunderstorm alert

Orange alerts are active in six states as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a nationwide weather alert this week. Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and parts of West Bengal are on high alert. Large-scale storm activity is already underway across the country. Thunderstorms, lightning, strong winds, and hail are expected across eastern, central, and northeastern India...Click here to read the full story

2026-03-21 14:05

Mumbai shocker: 8-year-old boy falls into 20-foot pit while playing, dies

An eight-year-old boy lost his life after falling into a 20-foot-deep, water-filled pit at an SRA construction site in Mumbai's Malad area. The incident, which occurred in Kurar village, has sparked outrage among residents and raised serious questions about safety measures at the site. Divyansh Maurya, a Class II student, had gone missing around 8 pm on Thursday while playing near his home. According to reports, he was trying to retrieve a ball that had fallen into the pit. CCTV footage reviewed by police shows the child attempting...Read full story

2026-03-21 14:06

Government eases ration stress

The Department of Food and Public Distribution has announced a major relief for ration card holders across India. In April 2026, beneficiaries will receive three months’ worth of food grains in a single distribution. This includes supplies for April, May and June, which will be provided together through Fair Price Shops. This decision comes at a time when rising prices are affecting household budgets. By providing rations for three months at once, the government aims to reduce the burden of frequent visits to ration shops and make access easier for millions of families who depend on the public distribution system. Read full story

2026-03-21 10:38

Air India Delhi-Vancouver flight makes U-turn after 4 hours

A Vancouver-bound Air India flight from Delhi was forced to return to its origin after it was found that the aircraft deployed for the service did not have the required approvals to operate into Canada. The incident occurred on March 19 and involved flight AI185, operated by a Boeing 777-200LR. According to a Hindustan Times report, people familiar with the matter said the aircraft remained airborne for several hours before turning back. Data from Flightradar24 shows that the flight reversed course while over Chinese...Click here to read the full story

2026-03-21 10:35

Centre debunks ‘3,000 Ukrainians in India’ claim as fake

The Centre on Friday dismissed viral social media claims that around 3,000 Ukrainians had entered India and were hiding in the Northeast to train insurgent groups, calling the reports completely false and misleading. In an official statement, the government clarified that such posts circulating online have no factual basis and urged people not to believe or share unverified information. Read full story

2026-03-21 10:34

Delhi wakes up to dense fog in late March as temperatures dip

Delhi and other areas of the National Capital Region woke up to a thick fog cover on Saturday morning, which is not a common phenomenon during the end of March. Delhi has been observing unusual weather patterns this year. Images shared by the news agency PTI showed low visibility in many areas, including Noida, where there is a thick fog cover. There were also scenes of people gathering at Jama Masjid to offer prayers on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr in the foggy conditions. Read full story

2026-03-21 10:34

Horoscope today

The horoscope for March 21, 2026 points to a day of ambition, progress and careful decision-making. Aries may achieve goals but face rising workload and expenses, while Taurus could see unexpected gains and positive news with caution in decisions. Gemini may encounter obstacles and health concerns, whereas Cancer may find emotional satisfaction despite minor family issues. Leo may see improved health and income but should avoid risky investments, and Virgo may benefit from travel and career opportunities while staying mindful of health. Libra may experience financial balance with caution in money matters, while Scorpio may gain recognition despite minor health issues. Sagittarius is likely to see income growth and career opportunities, while Capricorn may find relief from stress but should avoid new investments. Aquarius may gain recognition but needs to manage health and emotions, and Pisces may see promotions and business gains with support from elders

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