Times of India

The Tamil Nadu government presented the 2025-26 budget with key welfare initiatives, including fare-free bus travel for women and monthly financial support. Amid the budget session, AIADMK protested over corruption allegations. Significant funds were allocated for housing, education, and new infrastructure projects.

The driver of Jaffar Express recounted the terror when BLA militants attacked the train, killing 21 civilians and 4 soldiers. The militants exploded a bomb under the engine, causing a derailment. The Pakistani military rescued 340 passengers after a two-day standoff, claiming 33 attackers were killed. The BLA disputed this, alleging they still hold hostages.

Australia’s young all-rounder, Cooper Connolly, had a memorable ICC Champions Trophy semi-final debut against India. Despite an early dismissal by Mohammed Shami and dropping a catch, Connolly took Rohit Sharma's wicket, marking a significant achievement. Reflecting on the experience, he remains optimistic and eager to seize more opportunities at the international level.

A video of New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon celebrating Holi at ISKCON Auckland has resurfaced online. Luxon, set to visit India from March 16-20, aims to enhance trade and investment ties. He will meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and other leaders, emphasizing his admiration for India.

Elon Musk shared an old video of Barack Obama, where the former president discusses reducing government waste and unnecessary spending. In the video, Obama highlights the importance of eliminating pointless expenses and mentions specific examples, stressing the need for efficient budget management.

US Vice President JD Vance addressed key issues including the deportation of green card holders, immigration enforcement, and border security on 'The Ingraham Angle.' He discussed the administration's efforts to reduce illegal migration, strengthen the economy, and implement 'America first' trade policies. Vance also highlighted the administration's commitment to tackling national security threats posed by non-citizens.

Karnataka High Court granted B.S. Yediyurappa interim relief by staying the summons in a POCSO Act case, requiring his appearance on March 15. The court emphasized a comprehensive investigation and quashing the charge sheet. Yediyurappa faces allegations of inappropriate touching and harassment but denies all charges, citing political motivations and readiness to face legal proceedings.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted a photo with Elon Musk in front of the yet-to-be-released Tesla Cybertruck. Israel has invited Tesla to bid for electric vehicles for senior officials. Netanyahu also defended Musk against allegations of making a Nazi salute, asserting Musk's consistent support for Israel.

Kannada actress Ranya Rao was arrested for allegedly smuggling over 14 kg of gold after traveling to Dubai four times within 15 days. Her associate, Tarun Raju, was remanded to 15 days of judicial custody for his role in facilitating the purchase of the gold.

Two Japanese tourists were detained in China for two weeks for taking inappropriate photos at the Great Wall, with a man exposing his buttocks while a woman took pictures. After their detention, they were deported back to Japan, sparking outrage in China and leading to significant backlash on social media.

Veteran actor Deb Mukherjee, father of director Ayan Mukerji, passed away at 83. Known for films like 'Abhinetri' and 'Kaminey,' he had been hospitalized and died on March 14. Mukherjee's familial ties include actresses Kajol and Rani Mukerji. His contributions to Indian cinema and connection to Bollywood's Mukherjee-Samarth family are notable.

A fire at the Atlantis Building in Rajkot, Gujarat, killed three people and injured one. Emergency services quickly responded and evacuated all residents. The fire has been controlled, and the injured person is receiving medical treatment. The names of the deceased have not yet been released, and further details are expected soon.

Following his World Chess Championship victory, D Gukesh visits the Tirumala Temple in Andhra Pradesh, shaving his head to seek blessings. This traditional act signifies devotion and humility. Gukesh remains focused on upcoming tournaments in 2025, aiming for continuous improvement. His spiritual gesture has garnered appreciation online, with many praising his adherence to tradition.

Arvind Kejriwal’s Vipassana retreat in Punjab may signal a strategic shift for AAP, potentially involving party reshuffles ahead of the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections. While some speculate on internal meetings, AAP dismisses these as opposition rumors without substantiated development agendas.

A 23-year-old law student, Rakshit Chaurasia, allegedly in a drunken state, hit three vehicles, injuring eight and killing one in Vadodara. Chaurasia was driving while his friend Meet Chauhan owned the car. Chaurasia and Chauhan face charges, including culpable homicide. The deceased woman is identified as Hemali Patel, with her husband critically injured.

Two police officers and a civilian died when a speeding Volkswagen Polo crashed into them at a police check post in Chandigarh during Holi celebrations. The car driver and his friends were also injured, and liquor bottles were found in their vehicle. Senior police officials visited the scene to investigate.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Draupadi Murmu, Union home minister Amit Shah, and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi extended their Holi greetings, emphasizing themes of unity, harmony, progress, and prosperity. The leaders highlighted the significance of Holi in deepening bonds among citizens and celebrating India's cultural heritage, infusing joy, and bringing new enthusiasm into everyone's lives.

An Amravati-bound train collided with a truck illegally crossing closed railway tracks in Jalgaon, Maharashtra. No injuries were reported, but the collision disrupted the schedules of five trains, including the Mumbai-Amravati Express. The incident caused significant damage to railway infrastructure. Repair work is underway, and legal action may be taken against the truck driver.

Two forest watchers at Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh have been arrested under UAPA for allegedly aiding Maoists. Their detention has caused unrest among forest staff, leading to fears of being caught between insurgents and law enforcement. The arrests raise concerns about the infiltration of insurgents within wildlife sanctuaries, impacting both security and conservation efforts.

US Rep. Chuck Edwards faced a confrontational crowd in Asheville, North Carolina, with attendees protesting Trump administration policies and initiatives. Despite interruptions, Edwards discussed hurricane recovery efforts, government reductions, and support for Ukraine, while maintaining support for Trump and addressing concerns about Elon Musk's role in government security.