Times of India

Around 2,000 elite paratroopers are heading to the Middle East, bolstering US military options as President Trump explores diplomatic avenues with Iran. This deployment, alongside thousands of Marines, signals a significant escalation. The troops could be positioned for operations near Iran's oil hub, Kharg Island, or to secure vital shipping lanes.

A train derailment in Pakistan's Punjab province has left at least 25 people injured. Seven coaches of the Tezgam Express went off the tracks near Lodhran on late Tuesday night. Rescue teams quickly responded to the scene. Authorities are investigating the cause, with human error and mechanical issues being considered

Centre on Wednesday said there was no shortage of LPG, petrol or diesel in the country and urged people not to panic amid reports of increased demand in some areas. Officials said PNG supply was being prioritised and CNG was fully available for transport. The government also highlighted enforcement action against hoarding, with thousands of raids conducted and cylinders seized, while additional kerosene allocations have been made as an alternative fuel.

Iran’s Tractor FC will travel to Saudi Arabia to face Shabab Al Ahli in a playoff. The winner will move into the quarterfinals of the Asian Champions League Elite, where they will meet Buriram United.

R Ashwin’s claim that Arjun Tendulkar won’t feature for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2026 due to strong competition has sparked controversy. Yograj Singh hit back sharply, calling his remarks “bulls**t” and questioning his authority. He defended Arjun’s potential, highlighting past issues and boldly claiming he could transform him into a top batter within six months.

Bank customers must check holiday schedules before visiting branches this week. Closures will occur due to festivals and state holidays. RBI guidelines also mean branches will be shut on the second and fourth Saturdays of March. Plan your banking needs accordingly. Digital platforms like mobile apps and UPI remain active for everyday transactions. Services requiring branch visits will be unavailable.

Actor Samuthirakani addresses a viral video controversy. He explains his remarks about Vijay and Trisha were taken out of context. Samuthirakani insists his words came from genuine concern and emotion. He maintains he speaks honestly and has no regrets about his statements. The actor clarifies his perspective on public appearances.

Sivaramakrishnan, who played 25 international matches for India, made his Test debut in Antigua in April 1983 at the age of 17 years and 118 days, becoming one of the youngest to represent the country in the format.

Investors can note that Dalal Street will observe a holiday on March 26 for Ram Navmi, as per the exchange's official calendar. This early pause in the trading week means equity markets will be closed. The article also lists upcoming stock market holidays for 2026, including Shri Mahavir Jayanti and Good Friday.

Indian refiners have significantly increased purchases of Russian crude, securing around 60 million barrels for the upcoming month amidst Middle East conflict-driven supply disruptions. This surge is supported by a US waiver allowing imports of Russian oil loaded before March 12, with refiners also diversifying with Venezuelan and previously Iranian crude.

Meta is preparing for its largest-ever round of layoffs, with employees in wearables and ads told to work from home as cuts loom. Reuters reported the reductions could affect 20% of its nearly 79,000-strong workforce—around 15,800 jobs. The move is driven by Meta's $600 billion AI infrastructure commitment and a broader push toward leaner, AI-assisted operations, compounded by setbacks with its in-house AI models.

Concerns over safety and infrastructure in Cyprus ahead of the Candidates have unsettled players, with Koneru Humpy withdrawing and Hikaru Nakamura questioning power reliability. Anish Giri mocked FIDE’s delayed response. FIDE has now issued a FAQ, insisting Cyprus is safe, outages are rare, and backup systems and contingency plans are in place to ensure smooth conduct.

Veteran Congress leader Sonia Gandhi is stable and under observation at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital after being admitted Tuesday night due to feeling unwell following a weather change. Doctors are conducting investigations for potential stomach and urinary tract infections, with antibiotics administered as part of her treatment. Her condition is being closely monitored by a medical team.

Gujarat has passed its Uniform Civil Code Bill, 2026. This makes it the second Indian state to adopt a unified law for marriage, divorce, and inheritance. Union Home Minister Amit Shah hailed it as a historic step for equality. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel stated the UCC will ensure equal rights and dignity for women across all communities.

Actor R. Madhavan's impressive real estate portfolio, spanning Mumbai, Chennai, and Dubai, showcases a blend of luxury and purpose. His homes, valued in crores, feature serene interiors, meditation spaces, and even hydroponic gardens, reflecting a life of comfort and sophisticated calm. These properties underscore his strong financial standing, built on successful film projects and endorsements.

A man lost his life after being struck by the Patna-Howrah Vande Bharat Express at Barh railway station. The incident occurred on platform number 2. He was taken to Barh Sadar Hospital but succumbed to his injuries. The deceased's identity remains unestablished. Railway authorities have urged passengers to maintain a safe distance from platform edges.

Shakib, 39, had moved to the United States after the country's Awami League government led by Sheikh Hasina was removed following a student uprising in 2024. The interim government had barred Shakib from representing Bangladesh

Major oil companies have debunked claims of a fuel shortage, assuring the public that supplies are normal and sufficient. Despite global supply tensions due to the Middle East crisis, firms like BPCL, HPCL, and Indian Oil emphasize no panic buying is needed. They are committed to uninterrupted service, with real-time updates confirming smooth operations at retail outlets.