July 4, 2026

March 2026

Florida man loses US citizenship over .8 million Covid-19 relief fraud scheme; may face deportation

Florida man loses US citizenship over $3.8 million Covid-19 relief fraud scheme; may face deportation

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

A man living in Florida has been stripped of his United States citizenship after being convicted in a multi-million dollar Covid-19 fraud case, according to a federal court ruling.The decision was issued by a US judge who found that the man, 25-year-old Joff Stenn Wroy Philossaint, had obtained his citizenship unlawfully and later took part…

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NEW DELHI: The ministry of external affairs on Thursday said that New Delhi is trying to buy LPG from everywhere to widen its range of options for energy supply amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.In a weekly press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the government is also willing to buy LGP from Russia to meet the needs of consumers.”We’re trying to buy LPG from everywhere, wherever it’s available. So if Russia is available, we’ll go there too. Because the current situation is such that we have to ensure that our people’s fuel needs are met,” Jaiswal said.”I can say that we want to have a wide range of options,” he added.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: US pounds Iranian missile sites near key Strait of Hormuz; Iran rains down cluster bombs on Tel AvivUAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain announces official start date of Eid Al Fitr 2026‘Trust completely shattered’: Saudi Arabia warns Iran of military retaliation after wave of Gulf attacksThe ministry also reiterated that India has received energy requests from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and other neighbouring countries.He mentioned that India has been supplying diesel to Bangladesh since 2007 through various modes of transportation and continues to assist the South Asian nation, along with other neighbouring countries.“About energy, we have received requests from several of our neighbouring countries, and I had spoken about this earlier as well. We have received requests from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and some other neighbouring countries. As I had indicated earlier, India has been supplying diesel to Bangladesh since 2007 through various modes of transportation,” he said.”We are continuing to assist Bangladesh and our other neighbours even currently. This is being done while factoring in our own requirements, refining capacity, and diesel availability,” said Jaiswal.Meanwhile, government also urged consumers to use LPG judiciously and explore alternative cooking options where possible.The move comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, the United States and Israel, which have disrupted global energy supply chains. Vessel movement through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route that carries about one-fifth of global oil and a significant share of LPG shipments has been affected.To curb shortages and prevent malpractice, state governments have stepped up enforcement measures, including raids to check hoarding and black marketing of LPG cylinders. At the same time, alternate fuels such as kerosene and coal are being used in sectors like hospitality and restaurants to ease pressure on LPG supplies.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Concerning, But No Shortage’: Centre On LPG Situation, Warns Against Hoarding & Black MarketingSC Flags “Very Unusual” Situation, Seeks Remedy Over Mamata ‘Obstructing’ ED ChargeWar, Oil & Economy: Big Risks Ahead for India Explained’India Doing The Right Thing’: Congress Backs Modi Govt On Iran War, Tewari Says ‘Not Our War’Karti Chidambaram on TN Polls: ‘Stalin Way Ahead, Vijay’s Star Power Not Enough, BJP Has No Ground’Jaishankar Dials UAE FM As Iran Strikes Escalate And India Pushes To Stabilise West Asia Amid WarRajya Sabha Erupts In Laughter As Athawale’s Hilarious Speech Targets CongressFighter, Filmmaker Or Facilitator Of Conflict? Why Matthew VanDyke Has Raised Many Eyebrows In IndiaIndia May Face Rising Gas Prices And Energy Supply Risks After Qatar’s Ras Laffan LNG Hub StrikeIndia Sends More Warships To Escort Ships Through Battle-Hit Strait Of Hormuz123PhotostoriesChaitra Navratri 2026: 6 energising drinks to stay active during fasting5 signs of emotional abuse in a relationshipUgadi fashion 2026: 5 veshti styling looks inspired by South Indian actors8 most rattlesnake‑infested areas from the Canadian to the Mexican mountain ranges’Spider-Man: Brand New Day’: The Hand, The Punisher, and more villains Peter Parker could face in Marvel’s dark new chapterDinesh Karthik and Dipika Pallikal become parents again, welcome their daughter ‘Raaha’: A look at their love story and three children‘Main Hoon Na,’ ‘3 Idiots,’ ‘Chhichhore’: When real Indian colleges took center stage in Bollywood moviesInside KL Rahul’s Rs.20 crore premium residence in Bandra, Mumbai10 interesting facts about our solar system that will surprise youDivyanka Tripathi on conceiving naturally at 40; Vivek Dahiya recalls a mild panic attack as the couple shares their pregnancy journey123Hot PicksChina oil tankersMPsfarewellIran war newsGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingFortnite chapter 7eid al fitr 2026Green Card HoldersPeter ThielQatar missile fireNSA Doval US envoy talksDeve GowdaRajya Sabha MP farewellChina oil tankersCM Devendra Fadnavis

NEW DELHI: The ministry of external affairs on Thursday said that New Delhi is trying to buy LPG from everywhere to widen its range of options for energy supply amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.In a weekly press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the government is also willing to buy LGP from Russia to meet the needs of consumers.”We’re trying to buy LPG from everywhere, wherever it’s available. So if Russia is available, we’ll go there too. Because the current situation is such that we have to ensure that our people’s fuel needs are met,” Jaiswal said.”I can say that we want to have a wide range of options,” he added.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: US pounds Iranian missile sites near key Strait of Hormuz; Iran rains down cluster bombs on Tel AvivUAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain announces official start date of Eid Al Fitr 2026‘Trust completely shattered’: Saudi Arabia warns Iran of military retaliation after wave of Gulf attacksThe ministry also reiterated that India has received energy requests from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and other neighbouring countries.He mentioned that India has been supplying diesel to Bangladesh since 2007 through various modes of transportation and continues to assist the South Asian nation, along with other neighbouring countries.“About energy, we have received requests from several of our neighbouring countries, and I had spoken about this earlier as well. We have received requests from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and some other neighbouring countries. As I had indicated earlier, India has been supplying diesel to Bangladesh since 2007 through various modes of transportation,” he said.”We are continuing to assist Bangladesh and our other neighbours even currently. This is being done while factoring in our own requirements, refining capacity, and diesel availability,” said Jaiswal.Meanwhile, government also urged consumers to use LPG judiciously and explore alternative cooking options where possible.The move comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, the United States and Israel, which have disrupted global energy supply chains. Vessel movement through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route that carries about one-fifth of global oil and a significant share of LPG shipments has been affected.To curb shortages and prevent malpractice, state governments have stepped up enforcement measures, including raids to check hoarding and black marketing of LPG cylinders. At the same time, alternate fuels such as kerosene and coal are being used in sectors like hospitality and restaurants to ease pressure on LPG supplies.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Concerning, But No Shortage’: Centre On LPG Situation, Warns Against Hoarding & Black MarketingSC Flags “Very Unusual” Situation, Seeks Remedy Over Mamata ‘Obstructing’ ED ChargeWar, Oil & Economy: Big Risks Ahead for India Explained’India Doing The Right Thing’: Congress Backs Modi Govt On Iran War, Tewari Says ‘Not Our War’Karti Chidambaram on TN Polls: ‘Stalin Way Ahead, Vijay’s Star Power Not Enough, BJP Has No Ground’Jaishankar Dials UAE FM As Iran Strikes Escalate And India Pushes To Stabilise West Asia Amid WarRajya Sabha Erupts In Laughter As Athawale’s Hilarious Speech Targets CongressFighter, Filmmaker Or Facilitator Of Conflict? Why Matthew VanDyke Has Raised Many Eyebrows In IndiaIndia May Face Rising Gas Prices And Energy Supply Risks After Qatar’s Ras Laffan LNG Hub StrikeIndia Sends More Warships To Escort Ships Through Battle-Hit Strait Of Hormuz123PhotostoriesChaitra Navratri 2026: 6 energising drinks to stay active during fasting5 signs of emotional abuse in a relationshipUgadi fashion 2026: 5 veshti styling looks inspired by South Indian actors8 most rattlesnake‑infested areas from the Canadian to the Mexican mountain ranges’Spider-Man: Brand New Day’: The Hand, The Punisher, and more villains Peter Parker could face in Marvel’s dark new chapterDinesh Karthik and Dipika Pallikal become parents again, welcome their daughter ‘Raaha’: A look at their love story and three children‘Main Hoon Na,’ ‘3 Idiots,’ ‘Chhichhore’: When real Indian colleges took center stage in Bollywood moviesInside KL Rahul’s Rs.20 crore premium residence in Bandra, Mumbai10 interesting facts about our solar system that will surprise youDivyanka Tripathi on conceiving naturally at 40; Vivek Dahiya recalls a mild panic attack as the couple shares their pregnancy journey123Hot PicksChina oil tankersMPsfarewellIran war newsGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingFortnite chapter 7eid al fitr 2026Green Card HoldersPeter ThielQatar missile fireNSA Doval US envoy talksDeve GowdaRajya Sabha MP farewellChina oil tankersCM Devendra Fadnavis

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: The ministry of external affairs on Thursday said that New Delhi is trying to buy LPG from everywhere to widen its range of options for energy supply amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.In a weekly press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the government is also willing to buy LGP…

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After Queen Charlotte, Shonda Rhimes teases a Violet Bridgerton spin-off: Will Marcus Anderson be the new leading man?

After Queen Charlotte, Shonda Rhimes teases a Violet Bridgerton spin-off: Will Marcus Anderson be the new leading man?

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Shonda Rhimes has sparked intrigue with her suggestion of a forthcoming ‘Bridgerton’ spin-off that showcases the romantic developments between Violet Bridgerton and Lord Marcus Anderson. Their chemistry, which will be highlighted in Season 4, has drawn considerable viewer attention. Shonda Rhimes has hinted at the possibility of a new ’Bridgerton’ spin-off focusing on Violet Bridgerton…

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Nora Fatehi Marriage Advice: Marry for the right reasons: Why Nora Fatehi’s view is so crucial in a relationship |

Nora Fatehi Marriage Advice: Marry for the right reasons: Why Nora Fatehi’s view is so crucial in a relationship |

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Nora Fatehi stresses marrying for genuine love, not societal pressure or career advancement, calling such unions predatory. She believes in finding a partner with a good heart and upbringing, prioritizing inner qualities over wealth. Fatehi’s stance challenges the notion of marriage as a deadline, advocating for authentic connections. Even in the 21st century, the idea…

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Why should food be offered to God before eating?

Why should food be offered to God before eating?

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

The Vedic tradition of Naivedya or Bhog involves offering food to God before consumption, transforming it into sacred Prasadam. This ritual expresses gratitude, purifies ingredients, fulfills five great debts, fosters detachment, and bestows blessings of health and prosperity upon the household. For ages, offering food to God before eating has been a part of the…

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‘Russia driving wedge’: Kyiv denies anti-India plot, seeks fair probe into detention of 6 Ukrainians

‘Russia driving wedge’: Kyiv denies anti-India plot, seeks fair probe into detention of 6 Ukrainians

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Ukraine on Thursday called for a transparent and impartial investigation into the detention of six of its nationals in Mizoram, firmly rejecting any suggestion of involvement in terrorist activities and accusing Russia of trying to “drive a wedge between Ukraine and India.”The Ukrainian nationals were detained for allegedly entering Mizoram without authorisation and…

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Did Iran pose an ‘imminent threat’? How Tulsi Gabbard struggled to defend Trump war during Senate Hearing | World News

Did Iran pose an ‘imminent threat’? How Tulsi Gabbard struggled to defend Trump war during Senate Hearing | World News

Vamsikrishna010 mins mins

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard testifies during a Senate Committee on Intelligence hearing to examine worldwide threats on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, March 18, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.) There’s a joke about Tulsi Gabbard that’s popular even among Washington aides: DNI stands for Do Not Invite. The insinuation masquerading as a joke…

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Almost eight years after the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) put out the first draft regulation related to front of pack labelling (FOPL) of packaged food in 2018 for comments and suggestions, the authority is yet to finalise the regulation.In an affidavit dated March 13, on a May 2024 petition in the Supreme Court, FSSAI asked for six weeks to submit a proposal on labelling of packaged foods high in fat, sugar salt (HFSS) the consumption of which has been shown to cause non-communicable diseases.After organising five rounds of consultation with stakeholders including the food industry, the FSSAI informed the court that it was holding one more consultation with stakeholders on March 19 on “the proposed labels to be issued”.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: US pounds Iranian missile sites near key Strait of Hormuz; Iran rains down cluster bombs on Tel AvivUAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain announces official start date of Eid Al Fitr 2026‘Trust completely shattered’: Saudi Arabia warns Iran of military retaliation after wave of Gulf attacks“The question of front-of-pack labelling has already been the subject of extensive consultations and technical deliberations over several years,” pointed out Nutrition Advocacy in Public Interest (NAPi), a think tank of independent experts in epidemiology, nutrition and pediatrics, in a letter to the FSSAI. It added that FSSAI ought to consider proceeding with framing the FOPL regulation on the basis of the extensive consultations, available evidence and SC orders, rather than reopening the matter through additional stakeholder deliberations.The Supreme Court in its February 10 order had stated that “…we are of the view that whatever exercise has been undertaken so far has not yielded any positive or good result”. The court further pointed out that the PIL was filed to raise an important issue regarding the right to health of the citizens.FSSAI had organised a consultation in August 2018, followed by one in February 2022 in which all 17 industry associations voted for a star-rating system while all consumer organisations asked for warning labels.After an amended draft of the Food Safety and Standards (Labeling and Display) Regulations 2020 was put in public domain for objections and suggestions over 14,000 comments and suggestions were received from public and stakeholders. FSSAI had constituted an expert committee to analyse all the comments. In May 2025, the FSSAI organised four stakeholder consultations with food business operators and others in Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad and Kolkata. In October 2025, the food industry had submitted 430 representations to the food processing ministry in which they raised “serious concerns on the draft notification”. The parliamentary committee that brought out a report on food labelling regulation in December 2025 also heard various food industry associations and their representatives along with other stakeholders. “How many consultations will it take? The process for the regulation started in 2014, when FSSAI framed guidelines which included front-of-pack labelling specifying how much fat, sugar or salt it contained. How long does it take to bring in a regulation to protect public health interest? This is despite mounting evidence of rising incidence of non-communicable diseases and obesity, even among children, due to the consumption of packaged foods high in fats, salt and sugar,” asked Dr Arun Gupta, an NAPi member.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Concerning, But No Shortage’: Centre On LPG Situation, Warns Against Hoarding & Black MarketingSC Flags “Very Unusual” Situation, Seeks Remedy Over Mamata ‘Obstructing’ ED ChargeWar, Oil & Economy: Big Risks Ahead for India Explained’India Doing The Right Thing’: Congress Backs Modi Govt On Iran War, Tewari Says ‘Not Our War’Karti Chidambaram on TN Polls: ‘Stalin Way Ahead, Vijay’s Star Power Not Enough, BJP Has No Ground’Jaishankar Dials UAE FM As Iran Strikes Escalate And India Pushes To Stabilise West Asia Amid WarRajya Sabha Erupts In Laughter As Athawale’s Hilarious Speech Targets CongressFighter, Filmmaker Or Facilitator Of Conflict? Why Matthew VanDyke Has Raised Many Eyebrows In IndiaIndia May Face Rising Gas Prices And Energy Supply Risks After Qatar’s Ras Laffan LNG Hub StrikeIndia Sends More Warships To Escort Ships Through Battle-Hit Strait Of Hormuz123Photostories’Spider-Man: Brand New Day’: The Hand, The Punisher, and more villains Peter Parker could face in Marvel’s dark new chapter‘Main Hoon Na,’ ‘3 Idiots,’ ‘Chhichhore’: When real Indian colleges took center stage in Bollywood moviesInside KL Rahul’s Rs.20 crore premium residence in Bandra, Mumbai10 interesting facts about our solar system that will surprise youDivyanka Tripathi on conceiving naturally at 40; Vivek Dahiya recalls a mild panic attack as the couple shares their pregnancy journeyCelebrate Eid 2026 with these 15 delicious Biryani varieties7 healthy foods that boost your child’s brain development naturallyChennai plans 3.2-km pedestrian corridor between Velachery, Taramani MRTS stationsChennai Metro expansion hits roadblock: Rs 9,335-crore Airport–Kilambakkam corridor awaits green lightIndia’s most beautiful and iconic train routes perfect for slow travellers123Hot PicksChina oil tankersMPsfarewellIran war newsGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingFortnite chapter 7eid al fitr 2026Green Card HoldersPeter ThielQatar missile fireNSA Doval US envoy talksDeve GowdaRajya Sabha MP farewellChina oil tankersCM Devendra Fadnavis

Almost eight years after the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) put out the first draft regulation related to front of pack labelling (FOPL) of packaged food in 2018 for comments and suggestions, the authority is yet to finalise the regulation.In an affidavit dated March 13, on a May 2024 petition in the Supreme Court, FSSAI asked for six weeks to submit a proposal on labelling of packaged foods high in fat, sugar salt (HFSS) the consumption of which has been shown to cause non-communicable diseases.After organising five rounds of consultation with stakeholders including the food industry, the FSSAI informed the court that it was holding one more consultation with stakeholders on March 19 on “the proposed labels to be issued”.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: US pounds Iranian missile sites near key Strait of Hormuz; Iran rains down cluster bombs on Tel AvivUAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain announces official start date of Eid Al Fitr 2026‘Trust completely shattered’: Saudi Arabia warns Iran of military retaliation after wave of Gulf attacks“The question of front-of-pack labelling has already been the subject of extensive consultations and technical deliberations over several years,” pointed out Nutrition Advocacy in Public Interest (NAPi), a think tank of independent experts in epidemiology, nutrition and pediatrics, in a letter to the FSSAI. It added that FSSAI ought to consider proceeding with framing the FOPL regulation on the basis of the extensive consultations, available evidence and SC orders, rather than reopening the matter through additional stakeholder deliberations.The Supreme Court in its February 10 order had stated that “…we are of the view that whatever exercise has been undertaken so far has not yielded any positive or good result”. The court further pointed out that the PIL was filed to raise an important issue regarding the right to health of the citizens.FSSAI had organised a consultation in August 2018, followed by one in February 2022 in which all 17 industry associations voted for a star-rating system while all consumer organisations asked for warning labels.After an amended draft of the Food Safety and Standards (Labeling and Display) Regulations 2020 was put in public domain for objections and suggestions over 14,000 comments and suggestions were received from public and stakeholders. FSSAI had constituted an expert committee to analyse all the comments. In May 2025, the FSSAI organised four stakeholder consultations with food business operators and others in Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad and Kolkata. In October 2025, the food industry had submitted 430 representations to the food processing ministry in which they raised “serious concerns on the draft notification”. The parliamentary committee that brought out a report on food labelling regulation in December 2025 also heard various food industry associations and their representatives along with other stakeholders. “How many consultations will it take? The process for the regulation started in 2014, when FSSAI framed guidelines which included front-of-pack labelling specifying how much fat, sugar or salt it contained. How long does it take to bring in a regulation to protect public health interest? This is despite mounting evidence of rising incidence of non-communicable diseases and obesity, even among children, due to the consumption of packaged foods high in fats, salt and sugar,” asked Dr Arun Gupta, an NAPi member.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Concerning, But No Shortage’: Centre On LPG Situation, Warns Against Hoarding & Black MarketingSC Flags “Very Unusual” Situation, Seeks Remedy Over Mamata ‘Obstructing’ ED ChargeWar, Oil & Economy: Big Risks Ahead for India Explained’India Doing The Right Thing’: Congress Backs Modi Govt On Iran War, Tewari Says ‘Not Our War’Karti Chidambaram on TN Polls: ‘Stalin Way Ahead, Vijay’s Star Power Not Enough, BJP Has No Ground’Jaishankar Dials UAE FM As Iran Strikes Escalate And India Pushes To Stabilise West Asia Amid WarRajya Sabha Erupts In Laughter As Athawale’s Hilarious Speech Targets CongressFighter, Filmmaker Or Facilitator Of Conflict? Why Matthew VanDyke Has Raised Many Eyebrows In IndiaIndia May Face Rising Gas Prices And Energy Supply Risks After Qatar’s Ras Laffan LNG Hub StrikeIndia Sends More Warships To Escort Ships Through Battle-Hit Strait Of Hormuz123Photostories’Spider-Man: Brand New Day’: The Hand, The Punisher, and more villains Peter Parker could face in Marvel’s dark new chapter‘Main Hoon Na,’ ‘3 Idiots,’ ‘Chhichhore’: When real Indian colleges took center stage in Bollywood moviesInside KL Rahul’s Rs.20 crore premium residence in Bandra, Mumbai10 interesting facts about our solar system that will surprise youDivyanka Tripathi on conceiving naturally at 40; Vivek Dahiya recalls a mild panic attack as the couple shares their pregnancy journeyCelebrate Eid 2026 with these 15 delicious Biryani varieties7 healthy foods that boost your child’s brain development naturallyChennai plans 3.2-km pedestrian corridor between Velachery, Taramani MRTS stationsChennai Metro expansion hits roadblock: Rs 9,335-crore Airport–Kilambakkam corridor awaits green lightIndia’s most beautiful and iconic train routes perfect for slow travellers123Hot PicksChina oil tankersMPsfarewellIran war newsGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingFortnite chapter 7eid al fitr 2026Green Card HoldersPeter ThielQatar missile fireNSA Doval US envoy talksDeve GowdaRajya Sabha MP farewellChina oil tankersCM Devendra Fadnavis

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

Almost eight years after the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) put out the first draft regulation related to front of pack labelling (FOPL) of packaged food in 2018 for comments and suggestions, the authority is yet to finalise the regulation.In an affidavit dated March 13, on a May 2024 petition in the…

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IPL 2026: Check out new jerseys of all 10 teams

IPL 2026: Check out new jerseys of all 10 teams

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

NEW DELHI: As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season is set to kick off, the visual identity of the franchises has reached a new peak of innovation. This year’s jerseys blend high-tech athletic fabrics with deep cultural storytelling, reflecting each team’s evolution, from RCB’s defending champion look to the bold new eras in Rajasthan…

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Gulf crisis: Government classifies energy data as national security matter; seeks real-time updates across oil, gas sector

Gulf crisis: Government classifies energy data as national security matter; seeks real-time updates across oil, gas sector

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins

The Centre has classified key energy data as a matter of national security and directed all entities across India’s oil and gas value chain to submit detailed operational information, as the government moves to tighten oversight of supplies disrupted by the ongoing Middle East war.The oil ministry has issued the Petroleum and Natural Gas (Furnishing…

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UPPSC Staff Nurse Unani Answer Key 2026 released; raise objections by March 25: Direct link here

UPPSC Staff Nurse Unani Answer Key 2026 released; raise objections by March 25: Direct link here

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

UPPSC Staff Nurse Unani Answer Key 2026 released The Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) has released the answer key for the Staff Nurse Unani (Male/Female) Preliminary Examination 2025. The exam was conducted on March 17, 2026, in a single session. Candidates who appeared for the exam can now check the objective question papers and…

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Will Kamal Haasan appear as Virumaandi in ‘Seyon’? Buzz around Sivakarthikeyan starrer grows

Will Kamal Haasan appear as Virumaandi in ‘Seyon’? Buzz around Sivakarthikeyan starrer grows

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

Excitement is building in Kollywood as reports suggest veteran actor Kamal Haasan might portray Virumaandi in Sivakarthikeyan’s upcoming film, ‘Seyon.’ The movie, reportedly blending mythology with commercial elements, could see Haasan in a pivotal role. Produced by Raaj Kamal Films International, the project is slated to begin shooting in April, with an October release anticipated,…

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‘Riot-like conditions’: Rahul Gandhi targets BJP over Delhi Eid violence fear; HC orders police to amp up security

‘Riot-like conditions’: Rahul Gandhi targets BJP over Delhi Eid violence fear; HC orders police to amp up security

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi accused Bharatiya Janata Party-led government in Delhi of orchestrating a “riot-like” situation in the national capital, referring to the fear of violence on Eid after Uttam Nagar Tarun murder case. Moreover, Delhi high court issued directions to the police to make adequate arrangements in Uttam…

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FBI probes ex-US counterterror chief Joe Kent for allegedly leaking classified information after resigning over Iran war

FBI probes ex-US counterterror chief Joe Kent for allegedly leaking classified information after resigning over Iran war

Vamsikrishna02 mins mins

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating Joe Kent, a former top US intelligence official, over an alleged leak of classified information.Kent had resigned earlier this week from his post as director of the National Counterterrorism Center. His resignation came after he openly disagreed with the United States’ and President Trump’s decision to go…

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Representative AI image The last day of February was meant to be routine — travel plans, a turn of the calendar, the quiet anticipation of a new month. Instead, a long-simmering conflict boiled over as the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran under what has been referred to as Operation Epic Fury.The escalation took a dramatic turn with the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, a development that marked a decisive and unprecedented shift in the conflict’s trajectory. What began as a targeted military action quickly spiralled into a wider regional confrontation. Iran retaliated, not with direct strikes on US or Israeli territory alone, but by targeting their military assets across the Middle East, widening the theatre of tension.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: US pounds Iranian missile sites near key Strait of Hormuz; Iran rains down cluster bombs on Tel AvivUAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain announces official start date of Eid Al Fitr 2026‘Trust completely shattered’: Saudi Arabia warns Iran of military retaliation after wave of Gulf attacksWithin days, the conflict’s ripple effects were global. Energy markets felt the strain as supply chains were hit, shipping routes became dangerous, and diplomatic lines became complicated. Countries far from the battlefield found themselves pulled into its orbit; not as mere participants, but as stakeholders in an increasingly volatile and fragile world order.For India, like many other countries, the stakes were immediate and multi-layered, requiring the government’s involvement in ensuring the safety of its citizens across the Middle East, managing the risks of energy supply uncertainties, and carefully calibrating its diplomatic stance between competing global powers.Three weeks into the crisis, as the situation continues to evolve, let’s dive deep into how India is managing the chaos, a complex web of balancing security, economics, and diplomacy in the midst of a rapidly shifting geopolitical situation.Bringing lakhs of Indians backThe first signs of strain came from the ground. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that five Indian nationals have been killed and one remains missing in the conflict zone. Over 2.2 lakh Indian nationals have returned to India since February 28, as the Gulf crisis escalated, marking the first major sign of the direct impact on Indian citizens. In its latest briefings, the MEA said Indian missions in Iran, Israel and across West Asia are operating “round the clock”, maintaining contact with nationals and coordinating with local authorities. Dedicated control rooms have been set up in New Delhi as well as in embassies in the region to respond to distress calls.“We have five Indians who have lost their lives and one who is missing in an earlier incident. Our missions in Oman, Iraq, UAE remain in touch with the concerned authorities regarding the missing Indian national and for early repatriation of mortal remains of the deceased after completing requisite formalities,”Additional secretary (Gulf) Aseem Mahajan (during a public briefing)So far, the government has not announced a full-scale evacuation operation, but has facilitated case-by-case movement of Indian nationals through available commercial routes. Officials have indicated that airspace restrictions and security conditions have limited large-scale evacuation planning at this stage.The Ministry of Civil Aviation has also been monitoring the situation, with airlines adjusting schedules and routes in response to airspace closures over parts of West Asia. While no dedicated evacuation flights have been formally declared, authorities have said they are prepared to scale up operations if required.According to a senior Indian government official, around 2,20,000 Indian nationals have returned to the country so far, travelling on 45 flights expected to land on Monday from major Gulf transit hubs including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar. These flights are being coordinated with host governments and civil aviation authorities as airspace disruptions and closures continue to affect schedules.The earliest returns originated from Iran, where evacuations were complicated by border closures and limited air corridors. MEA Joint Secretary (Gulf) Aseem Mahajan told reporters that 550 Indian nationals have crossed into Armenia via land routes from Iran, and have since flown to India. Additionally, 90 Indians crossed into Azerbaijan from Iran just this week, with diplomatic and logistical assistance provided by the Indian embassy in Tehran.According to the govt officials, 284 people were in Iran on pilgrimage, part of the broader group now moving toward repatriation. “Our embassy in Tehran, in spite of difficulties, continues to be fully functional,” said the additional secretary (Gulf) Mahajan , adding that staff had relocated students from Tehran to safer cities before facilitating their onward travel.Students have been among the most visible returnees. On Sunday, nearly 70 Indian students, primarily from Jammu and Kashmir studying medicine in Iran, landed at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport after a multi‑stage journey that took them from Iran to Armenia, then Dubai and finally to New Delhi. Many paid for their own return tickets after booking one‑way flights home; fares reportedly climbed sharply under emergency demand, with one student saying a ticket that normally costs around Rs 25,000 was priced near Rs 55,000 in the crisis.For many returnees, the ordeal did not end at arrival. Students spoke of “anxiety and uncertainty” in Iran, disruptions to academic schedules and examinations, and communication challenges due to intermittent internet access. Some classmates still in Iran were relocated to Qom, which officials say is comparatively calmer.Meanwhile, the repatriation process continues in the Gulf. The MEA briefing reiterated that Kuwait’s airspace remains closed, though plans are underway for special non‑scheduled flights. Transits from Bahrain and Iraq are being facilitated via Saudi Arabia, as authorities seek to continue safe movement despite evolving security conditions.On the ground, evacuation has so far been selective and incident-driven. In one such case, 15 Indian crew members were moved to safety after a vessel was hit near Iraq, with the MEA confirming coordination with regional authorities to secure their exit.Officials have stressed that any broader evacuation will depend on “feasibility and evolving security conditions”, particularly access to safe corridors. With an estimated 8–9 million Indians living across the Gulf region, the government’s current approach remains cautious, focused on assistance, monitoring, and preparedness rather than immediate mass evacuation.The energy & oil crisisIndia’s energy supply chains have been under intense pressure in the three weeks since conflict escalated in the Middle East, with the narrow Strait of Hormuz emerging as a focal point of risk for crude and gas shipments. The strait, just about 33 kilometres wide at its narrowest point, is the conduit for roughly 20 per cent of the world’s seaborne oil trade. For India, it is particularly vital: the country imports over 50 per cent of its crude oil and a significant portion of its LPG through this route, primarily from Gulf nations such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Any disruption in transit through Hormuz can therefore directly impact domestic fuel supply, industrial production, and cooking gas availability for millions of households.Despite sustained geopolitical tension, Indian energy imports have continued to make it home, albeit in a strained context. The Indian crude oil tanker “Jag Laadki” arrived at Mundra Port in Gujarat on Wednesday, by literally sailing the conflict. This vessel was loading at UAE’s Fujairah port which came under attack. The ship, while unharmed and its crew safe, crossed the region the next day. This marked the third vessel in recent days to successfully transit the Strait of Hormuz and deliver crude to Indian shores despite the conflict environment. Officials said the tanker navigated the sensitive waters safely.Earlier, two Indian‑flagged LPG carriers. Shivalik and Nanda Devi, also cleared the strait with nearly 92,700 tonnes of LPG between them and reached Gujarat facilities, providing a measure of relief to the domestic cooking gas market that heavily relies on imports from West Asia.In the broader region, however, the picture remains challenging. According to the Ministry of Shipping’s own data cited in reporting today, around three lakh tonnes of LPG across six Indian‑flagged ships remain stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, with their arrival delayed amid security and transit bottlenecks.New Delhi’s diplomatic efforts to secure movement are ongoing, but the government has been careful to clarify that there is no blanket arrangement with Tehran guaranteeing automatic passage for Indian vessels; each transit requires case‑by‑case permissions and clearance, according to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.The Indian government is also monitoring hundreds of Indian seafarers and ships still in the region and has boosted maritime security oversight through the Directorate General of Shipping, which has issued enhanced advisories and 24×7 monitoring protocols for vessels in the Gulf amid missile, drone and other threat reports.At the same time, disruptions have not just been physical but economic. Indian refiners and importers are contending with surging freight and insurance costs, as global risk premiums spike with the wider disruption around Hormuz and the Gulf. When the Middle East conflict began following US-Israel strikes on Iran, 28 Indian-flagged vessels were in the strait: 24 on the west side and four on the east. Over the past week, two vessels from each side have safely reached open waters, leaving three ships on the east side after one more Indian-flagged ship joined them.and 22 on the west.”All 611 seafarers on 22 vessels (on the west side of the Strait) are safe,” he told a news briefing. Watch Indian Ship Safety To Energy Crisis: MEA Reveals Details On Talks Between Jaishankar And Iran FM Additionally, Industry sources say many shipping firms are reluctant to quote rates for large tankers amid uncertainties, adding a cost dimension to the logistical strain.In this volatile environment, India’s strategy has been to keep key supplies moving while managing risk, rather than attempt an abrupt rerouting away from the Strait of Hormuz. The outcome so far is mixed: key cargos are arriving, several remain delayed, and the broader supply chain is under heightened geopolitical pressure. There are no signs yet that flows have collapsed entirely, but their continuity is far from assured.Walking the diplomatic tightropeAs the conflict in the Middle East raged into its third week, India’s diplomatic posture has been shaped by a careful effort to balance competing interests in an increasingly divided geopolitical landscape.In its official briefings, the Ministry of External Affairs has repeatedly emphasised India’s core priorities: calls for de‑escalation, restraint and a return to dialogue while urging that civilian lives be protected. New Delhi has avoided taking explicit sides, sticking to messaging that reflects India’s broader foreign policy of pursuing its national interests through engagement rather than confrontation. Watch India Condoles Khameini’s Death, Jaishankar Speaks To Iranian FM; ‘Iran War God’s Plan’: US MilitaryAt the same time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been actively engaging world leaders to reinforce this posture. In recent days, he spoke by phone with the President of the United Arab Emirates to strongly condemn attacks on UAE territory, stressing India’s solidarity with the Gulf state amid ongoing hostilities.India has also maintained communication channels with Tehran. PM Modi spoke to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, expressing deep concern over escalations and urging immediate de‑escalation and dialogue, while thanking Iran for its cooperation in the safe return of Indian nationals earlier in the crisis.These engagements reflect India’s broader multi‑alignment strategy, where ties with the United States, Israel, Iran and Gulf partners are calibrated to protect energy imports, expatriate welfare and strategic interests — all without overtly siding with any hostile bloc. The diplomatic challenge has extended into India’s role as chair of the BRICS grouping in 2026. With the bloc including countries with divergent positions on the Middle East conflict, attempts to issue a unified BRICS statement on the crisis have so far been unsuccessful, posing an early stress test for India’s leadership of the grouping. Tehran, in particular, has signalled expectations that New Delhi use its BRICS presidency to condemn the US‑Israel strikes on Iran — demands that India has been hesitant to endorse in explicit terms given its multi‑directional diplomacy.Even as the government maintains its calibrated stance, voices from the political opposition have called for a more assertive diplomatic role. In a latest Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, joined opposition’s call on March 18, urging New Delhi to take a “proactive lead” in demanding a ceasefire and pushing for peace.The Middle East conflict highlights the core tension of India’s foreign policy today, as the country navigates advocating for peace and multilateral engagement while simultaneously protecting its strategic, economic, and diaspora interests in a rapidly shifting regional landscape.”A three-front crisis, still unfoldingThree weeks into the conflict, India is not dealing with a single crisis but a layered one. There are confirmed casualties among its citizens, partial but fragile continuity in energy flows, and a diplomatic environment that is becoming more polarised.Each strand is being managed, but none is fully under control. And as long as the situation around Hormuz remains unstable, all three challenges – evacuations, energy security and diplomacy— will continue to move together, shaping India’s response in real time.About the AuthorTrisha MahajanTrisha Mahajan is a journalist with The Times of India digital, with keen interest in covering business and corporate affairs. She also reports on key national and world developments and global news trends. A keen reader with a strong interest in storytelling that adds context, clarity, and depth to complex issues.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Concerning, But No Shortage’: Centre On LPG Situation, Warns Against Hoarding & Black MarketingSC Flags “Very Unusual” Situation, Seeks Remedy Over Mamata ‘Obstructing’ ED ChargeWar, Oil & Economy: Big Risks Ahead for India Explained’India Doing The Right Thing’: Congress Backs Modi Govt On Iran War, Tewari Says ‘Not Our War’Karti Chidambaram on TN Polls: ‘Stalin Way Ahead, Vijay’s Star Power Not Enough, BJP Has No Ground’Jaishankar Dials UAE FM As Iran Strikes Escalate And India Pushes To Stabilise West Asia Amid WarRajya Sabha Erupts In Laughter As Athawale’s Hilarious Speech Targets CongressFighter, Filmmaker Or Facilitator Of Conflict? Why Matthew VanDyke Has Raised Many Eyebrows In IndiaIndia May Face Rising Gas Prices And Energy Supply Risks After Qatar’s Ras Laffan LNG Hub StrikeIndia Sends More Warships To Escort Ships Through Battle-Hit Strait Of Hormuz123Photostories‘Main Hoon Na,’ ‘3 Idiots,’ ‘Chhichhore’: When real Indian colleges took center stage in Bollywood moviesInside KL Rahul’s Rs.20 crore premium residence in Bandra, Mumbai10 interesting facts about our solar system that will surprise youDivyanka Tripathi on conceiving naturally at 40; Vivek Dahiya recalls a mild panic attack as the couple shares their pregnancy journeyCelebrate Eid 2026 with these 15 delicious Biryani varieties7 healthy foods that boost your child’s brain development naturallyChennai plans 3.2-km pedestrian corridor between Velachery, Taramani MRTS stationsChennai Metro expansion hits roadblock: Rs 9,335-crore Airport–Kilambakkam corridor awaits green lightIndia’s most beautiful and iconic train routes perfect for slow travellers‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’: Reasons why the Ranveer Singh starrer is worth watching in theaters123Hot PicksChina oil tankersMPsfarewellIran war newsGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingFortnite chapter 7eid al fitr 2026Green Card HoldersPeter ThielQatar missile fireNSA Doval US envoy talksDeve GowdaRajya Sabha MP farewellChina oil tankersCM Devendra Fadnavis

Representative AI image The last day of February was meant to be routine — travel plans, a turn of the calendar, the quiet anticipation of a new month. Instead, a long-simmering conflict boiled over as the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran under what has been referred to as Operation Epic Fury.The escalation took a dramatic turn with the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, a development that marked a decisive and unprecedented shift in the conflict’s trajectory. What began as a targeted military action quickly spiralled into a wider regional confrontation. Iran retaliated, not with direct strikes on US or Israeli territory alone, but by targeting their military assets across the Middle East, widening the theatre of tension.Israel Iran WarUS-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: US pounds Iranian missile sites near key Strait of Hormuz; Iran rains down cluster bombs on Tel AvivUAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain announces official start date of Eid Al Fitr 2026‘Trust completely shattered’: Saudi Arabia warns Iran of military retaliation after wave of Gulf attacksWithin days, the conflict’s ripple effects were global. Energy markets felt the strain as supply chains were hit, shipping routes became dangerous, and diplomatic lines became complicated. Countries far from the battlefield found themselves pulled into its orbit; not as mere participants, but as stakeholders in an increasingly volatile and fragile world order.For India, like many other countries, the stakes were immediate and multi-layered, requiring the government’s involvement in ensuring the safety of its citizens across the Middle East, managing the risks of energy supply uncertainties, and carefully calibrating its diplomatic stance between competing global powers.Three weeks into the crisis, as the situation continues to evolve, let’s dive deep into how India is managing the chaos, a complex web of balancing security, economics, and diplomacy in the midst of a rapidly shifting geopolitical situation.Bringing lakhs of Indians backThe first signs of strain came from the ground. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that five Indian nationals have been killed and one remains missing in the conflict zone. Over 2.2 lakh Indian nationals have returned to India since February 28, as the Gulf crisis escalated, marking the first major sign of the direct impact on Indian citizens. In its latest briefings, the MEA said Indian missions in Iran, Israel and across West Asia are operating “round the clock”, maintaining contact with nationals and coordinating with local authorities. Dedicated control rooms have been set up in New Delhi as well as in embassies in the region to respond to distress calls.“We have five Indians who have lost their lives and one who is missing in an earlier incident. Our missions in Oman, Iraq, UAE remain in touch with the concerned authorities regarding the missing Indian national and for early repatriation of mortal remains of the deceased after completing requisite formalities,”Additional secretary (Gulf) Aseem Mahajan (during a public briefing)So far, the government has not announced a full-scale evacuation operation, but has facilitated case-by-case movement of Indian nationals through available commercial routes. Officials have indicated that airspace restrictions and security conditions have limited large-scale evacuation planning at this stage.The Ministry of Civil Aviation has also been monitoring the situation, with airlines adjusting schedules and routes in response to airspace closures over parts of West Asia. While no dedicated evacuation flights have been formally declared, authorities have said they are prepared to scale up operations if required.According to a senior Indian government official, around 2,20,000 Indian nationals have returned to the country so far, travelling on 45 flights expected to land on Monday from major Gulf transit hubs including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar. These flights are being coordinated with host governments and civil aviation authorities as airspace disruptions and closures continue to affect schedules.The earliest returns originated from Iran, where evacuations were complicated by border closures and limited air corridors. MEA Joint Secretary (Gulf) Aseem Mahajan told reporters that 550 Indian nationals have crossed into Armenia via land routes from Iran, and have since flown to India. Additionally, 90 Indians crossed into Azerbaijan from Iran just this week, with diplomatic and logistical assistance provided by the Indian embassy in Tehran.According to the govt officials, 284 people were in Iran on pilgrimage, part of the broader group now moving toward repatriation. “Our embassy in Tehran, in spite of difficulties, continues to be fully functional,” said the additional secretary (Gulf) Mahajan , adding that staff had relocated students from Tehran to safer cities before facilitating their onward travel.Students have been among the most visible returnees. On Sunday, nearly 70 Indian students, primarily from Jammu and Kashmir studying medicine in Iran, landed at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport after a multi‑stage journey that took them from Iran to Armenia, then Dubai and finally to New Delhi. Many paid for their own return tickets after booking one‑way flights home; fares reportedly climbed sharply under emergency demand, with one student saying a ticket that normally costs around Rs 25,000 was priced near Rs 55,000 in the crisis.For many returnees, the ordeal did not end at arrival. Students spoke of “anxiety and uncertainty” in Iran, disruptions to academic schedules and examinations, and communication challenges due to intermittent internet access. Some classmates still in Iran were relocated to Qom, which officials say is comparatively calmer.Meanwhile, the repatriation process continues in the Gulf. The MEA briefing reiterated that Kuwait’s airspace remains closed, though plans are underway for special non‑scheduled flights. Transits from Bahrain and Iraq are being facilitated via Saudi Arabia, as authorities seek to continue safe movement despite evolving security conditions.On the ground, evacuation has so far been selective and incident-driven. In one such case, 15 Indian crew members were moved to safety after a vessel was hit near Iraq, with the MEA confirming coordination with regional authorities to secure their exit.Officials have stressed that any broader evacuation will depend on “feasibility and evolving security conditions”, particularly access to safe corridors. With an estimated 8–9 million Indians living across the Gulf region, the government’s current approach remains cautious, focused on assistance, monitoring, and preparedness rather than immediate mass evacuation.The energy & oil crisisIndia’s energy supply chains have been under intense pressure in the three weeks since conflict escalated in the Middle East, with the narrow Strait of Hormuz emerging as a focal point of risk for crude and gas shipments. The strait, just about 33 kilometres wide at its narrowest point, is the conduit for roughly 20 per cent of the world’s seaborne oil trade. For India, it is particularly vital: the country imports over 50 per cent of its crude oil and a significant portion of its LPG through this route, primarily from Gulf nations such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Any disruption in transit through Hormuz can therefore directly impact domestic fuel supply, industrial production, and cooking gas availability for millions of households.Despite sustained geopolitical tension, Indian energy imports have continued to make it home, albeit in a strained context. The Indian crude oil tanker “Jag Laadki” arrived at Mundra Port in Gujarat on Wednesday, by literally sailing the conflict. This vessel was loading at UAE’s Fujairah port which came under attack. The ship, while unharmed and its crew safe, crossed the region the next day. This marked the third vessel in recent days to successfully transit the Strait of Hormuz and deliver crude to Indian shores despite the conflict environment. Officials said the tanker navigated the sensitive waters safely.Earlier, two Indian‑flagged LPG carriers. Shivalik and Nanda Devi, also cleared the strait with nearly 92,700 tonnes of LPG between them and reached Gujarat facilities, providing a measure of relief to the domestic cooking gas market that heavily relies on imports from West Asia.In the broader region, however, the picture remains challenging. According to the Ministry of Shipping’s own data cited in reporting today, around three lakh tonnes of LPG across six Indian‑flagged ships remain stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, with their arrival delayed amid security and transit bottlenecks.New Delhi’s diplomatic efforts to secure movement are ongoing, but the government has been careful to clarify that there is no blanket arrangement with Tehran guaranteeing automatic passage for Indian vessels; each transit requires case‑by‑case permissions and clearance, according to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.The Indian government is also monitoring hundreds of Indian seafarers and ships still in the region and has boosted maritime security oversight through the Directorate General of Shipping, which has issued enhanced advisories and 24×7 monitoring protocols for vessels in the Gulf amid missile, drone and other threat reports.At the same time, disruptions have not just been physical but economic. Indian refiners and importers are contending with surging freight and insurance costs, as global risk premiums spike with the wider disruption around Hormuz and the Gulf. When the Middle East conflict began following US-Israel strikes on Iran, 28 Indian-flagged vessels were in the strait: 24 on the west side and four on the east. Over the past week, two vessels from each side have safely reached open waters, leaving three ships on the east side after one more Indian-flagged ship joined them.and 22 on the west.”All 611 seafarers on 22 vessels (on the west side of the Strait) are safe,” he told a news briefing. Watch Indian Ship Safety To Energy Crisis: MEA Reveals Details On Talks Between Jaishankar And Iran FM Additionally, Industry sources say many shipping firms are reluctant to quote rates for large tankers amid uncertainties, adding a cost dimension to the logistical strain.In this volatile environment, India’s strategy has been to keep key supplies moving while managing risk, rather than attempt an abrupt rerouting away from the Strait of Hormuz. The outcome so far is mixed: key cargos are arriving, several remain delayed, and the broader supply chain is under heightened geopolitical pressure. There are no signs yet that flows have collapsed entirely, but their continuity is far from assured.Walking the diplomatic tightropeAs the conflict in the Middle East raged into its third week, India’s diplomatic posture has been shaped by a careful effort to balance competing interests in an increasingly divided geopolitical landscape.In its official briefings, the Ministry of External Affairs has repeatedly emphasised India’s core priorities: calls for de‑escalation, restraint and a return to dialogue while urging that civilian lives be protected. New Delhi has avoided taking explicit sides, sticking to messaging that reflects India’s broader foreign policy of pursuing its national interests through engagement rather than confrontation. Watch India Condoles Khameini’s Death, Jaishankar Speaks To Iranian FM; ‘Iran War God’s Plan’: US MilitaryAt the same time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been actively engaging world leaders to reinforce this posture. In recent days, he spoke by phone with the President of the United Arab Emirates to strongly condemn attacks on UAE territory, stressing India’s solidarity with the Gulf state amid ongoing hostilities.India has also maintained communication channels with Tehran. PM Modi spoke to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, expressing deep concern over escalations and urging immediate de‑escalation and dialogue, while thanking Iran for its cooperation in the safe return of Indian nationals earlier in the crisis.These engagements reflect India’s broader multi‑alignment strategy, where ties with the United States, Israel, Iran and Gulf partners are calibrated to protect energy imports, expatriate welfare and strategic interests — all without overtly siding with any hostile bloc. The diplomatic challenge has extended into India’s role as chair of the BRICS grouping in 2026. With the bloc including countries with divergent positions on the Middle East conflict, attempts to issue a unified BRICS statement on the crisis have so far been unsuccessful, posing an early stress test for India’s leadership of the grouping. Tehran, in particular, has signalled expectations that New Delhi use its BRICS presidency to condemn the US‑Israel strikes on Iran — demands that India has been hesitant to endorse in explicit terms given its multi‑directional diplomacy.Even as the government maintains its calibrated stance, voices from the political opposition have called for a more assertive diplomatic role. In a latest Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, joined opposition’s call on March 18, urging New Delhi to take a “proactive lead” in demanding a ceasefire and pushing for peace.The Middle East conflict highlights the core tension of India’s foreign policy today, as the country navigates advocating for peace and multilateral engagement while simultaneously protecting its strategic, economic, and diaspora interests in a rapidly shifting regional landscape.”A three-front crisis, still unfoldingThree weeks into the conflict, India is not dealing with a single crisis but a layered one. There are confirmed casualties among its citizens, partial but fragile continuity in energy flows, and a diplomatic environment that is becoming more polarised.Each strand is being managed, but none is fully under control. And as long as the situation around Hormuz remains unstable, all three challenges – evacuations, energy security and diplomacy— will continue to move together, shaping India’s response in real time.About the AuthorTrisha MahajanTrisha Mahajan is a journalist with The Times of India digital, with keen interest in covering business and corporate affairs. She also reports on key national and world developments and global news trends. A keen reader with a strong interest in storytelling that adds context, clarity, and depth to complex issues.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Concerning, But No Shortage’: Centre On LPG Situation, Warns Against Hoarding & Black MarketingSC Flags “Very Unusual” Situation, Seeks Remedy Over Mamata ‘Obstructing’ ED ChargeWar, Oil & Economy: Big Risks Ahead for India Explained’India Doing The Right Thing’: Congress Backs Modi Govt On Iran War, Tewari Says ‘Not Our War’Karti Chidambaram on TN Polls: ‘Stalin Way Ahead, Vijay’s Star Power Not Enough, BJP Has No Ground’Jaishankar Dials UAE FM As Iran Strikes Escalate And India Pushes To Stabilise West Asia Amid WarRajya Sabha Erupts In Laughter As Athawale’s Hilarious Speech Targets CongressFighter, Filmmaker Or Facilitator Of Conflict? Why Matthew VanDyke Has Raised Many Eyebrows In IndiaIndia May Face Rising Gas Prices And Energy Supply Risks After Qatar’s Ras Laffan LNG Hub StrikeIndia Sends More Warships To Escort Ships Through Battle-Hit Strait Of Hormuz123Photostories‘Main Hoon Na,’ ‘3 Idiots,’ ‘Chhichhore’: When real Indian colleges took center stage in Bollywood moviesInside KL Rahul’s Rs.20 crore premium residence in Bandra, Mumbai10 interesting facts about our solar system that will surprise youDivyanka Tripathi on conceiving naturally at 40; Vivek Dahiya recalls a mild panic attack as the couple shares their pregnancy journeyCelebrate Eid 2026 with these 15 delicious Biryani varieties7 healthy foods that boost your child’s brain development naturallyChennai plans 3.2-km pedestrian corridor between Velachery, Taramani MRTS stationsChennai Metro expansion hits roadblock: Rs 9,335-crore Airport–Kilambakkam corridor awaits green lightIndia’s most beautiful and iconic train routes perfect for slow travellers‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’: Reasons why the Ranveer Singh starrer is worth watching in theaters123Hot PicksChina oil tankersMPsfarewellIran war newsGold rate todayIncome Tax CalculatorPublic holidays March 2026Bank Holidays MarchTop TrendingFortnite chapter 7eid al fitr 2026Green Card HoldersPeter ThielQatar missile fireNSA Doval US envoy talksDeve GowdaRajya Sabha MP farewellChina oil tankersCM Devendra Fadnavis

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The last day of February was meant to be routine — travel plans, a turn of the calendar, the quiet anticipation of a new month. Instead, a long-simmering conflict boiled over as the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran under what has been referred to as Operation Epic Fury.The escalation took a…

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