Times of India

Colaba residents urge legislative assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar to halt the Rs 229-crore passenger jetty and terminal project at Radio Club near the Gateway of India. Their concerns include heritage impacts, traffic congestion, and environmental imbalances, urging feasibility checks before proceeding.

Congress criticised PM Modi for his podcast with Lex Fridman, accusing him of avoiding press conferences and attacking critics while claiming that 'criticism is the soul of democracy.' Modi discussed his influence from RSS, his stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and his relationship with Donald Trump, aligning 'America First' with 'India First.'

In Bengaluru, the blooming season leads to increased bee activity and hive formation in urban areas. Residents and conservationists are promoting safe relocation over extermination to protect these vital pollinators and preserve biodiversity. Efforts include community education and advocating for humane hive removal practices.

Aman Putra Chand Khan, accused of raping a seven-year-old girl, attempted to escape police custody in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh by snatching a policeman's pistol and firing at the police. The police retaliated, injuring him in the leg, and he was subsequently recaptured and taken to the hospital for treatment before facing legal procedures.

CCB sleuths of Mangaluru City police arrested two South African women in Bengaluru and seized nearly 38kg MDMA worth Rs 75 crore. The suspects reportedly flew between Bengaluru and New Delhi 59 times in six months to deliver the drugs. The arrested are identified as Bamba Fanta and Abigail Adonis.

Immigration attorneys report an increase in the secondary inspection and detention of green card holders by the US Custom and Border Protection (CBP), particularly targeting elderly Indian residents. Attorneys advise against surrendering green cards at the airport, stressing the importance of a hearing before an immigration judge.

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, stranded for nine months at the ISS, were greeted by an 'alien' during the arrival of the SpaceX crew. The friendly welcoming came as they prepared for their imminent return to Earth. Their extended stay was due to technical issues with their Boeing Starliner.

India is accelerating the development of its fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, AMCA, to counter emerging threats from Pakistan and China. A top-level committee is working on strategies to improve efficiency and shorten production timelines, with a focus on greater private sector involvement.

A massive crackdown on an international drug cartel by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) led to the seizure of methamphetamine tablets worth Rs 100 crore in Imphal and Guwahati. Four operatives were arrested, and the drugs, originating from Moreh in Manipur, were hidden in vehicles. Home Minister Amit Shah praised the efforts towards a drug-free India.

Union home minister Amit Shah announced that 82% of the 2020 Bodo accord commitments are fulfilled, with full completion expected in two years. He highlighted the transformation of Bodoland Territorial Region from insurgency to development, and the removal of AFSPA from the entire region, emphasizing economic and social progress.

Police in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh, have booked over 200 madrassas for failing to comply with government standards. An investigation found that 219 out of 700 madrassas in the district had serious irregularities, with many granted recognition and funding without physical verification.

The annual skiing and snowboarding championship in Auli, scheduled from March 16-19, has been postponed for the third consecutive year due to insufficient snowfall. Officials highlight the impact of limited snow, planning alternative activities. Athletes express concern over climate change affecting future events in the region.

Police have heightened security at the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb near Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar after threats from right-wing groups wanting its demolition. Access to the tomb has been limited, with SRPF deployed and barricades set up nearby. Politicians from opposing factions are using the situation for political leverage.

"The rise of China as a dominant economic and strategic force adds complexity, creates competition, and hampers India's effort to be the natural leader for the Global South," Gen Dwivedi said while speaking at the fourth General Bipin Rawat Memorial Lecture in Delhi.

The lynching of ASI Ramcharan Gautam during a rescue operation in Madhya Pradesh's Mauganj has sparked a political uproar. Seven suspects have been arrested, but the assault has raised questions about law enforcement and led to calls for CM Mohan Yadav to relinquish the home portfolio.

Colaba residents have requested legislative assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar to halt the construction of a Rs 229-crore passenger jetty and terminal building near Gateway of India. They argue the project was expedited without addressing their objections and could have severe consequences for the city. Narwekar promises to organize a meeting to address residents’ concerns and ensure transparency.