Swiss food giant Nestlé reported a major theft of 12 tons of KitKat bars during transit in Europe, involving over 413,000 units of a new product range. The truck, travelling from Italy to Poland, disappeared en route and remains untraced. Authorities are investigating the incident with supply chain partners. While the company warned the stolen stock could enter unofficial markets and potentially affect availability ahead of Easter, it later clarified that overall supply remains stable and there are no consumer safety concerns. The unusual “chocolate heist” has drawn attention due to its scale and timing during peak seasonal demand.

Indian rally legend Hari Singh, known as the “Gypsy King,” is presumed dead after an eight-day search in the Maldives failed following a speedboat accident near Felidhoo Island. Authorities deployed divers, drones, aircraft and boats but found no trace of Singh or the boat captain. Businessman Gautam Singhania survived the incident. With search operations called off, Singh’s family held final prayers in Chandigarh, attended by hundreds from the motorsport community. A five-time Indian National Rally champion, Singh also won the Asia Zone Rally Championship and later mentored young drivers, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Indian motorsport. (PC: X)

The Iran–United States–Israel conflict has sharply escalated with strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and Tehran’s threats of retaliation. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned workers at US- and Israel-linked firms to evacuate, signalling wider attacks. Iran is reviewing exit from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, raising nuclear risks, while Donald Trump hinted at seizing oil assets like Kharg Island. The Strait of Hormuz disruption has stranded Indian energy shipments and shaken markets. Narendra Modi stressed economic stability. Civilian casualties, including Indians abroad, and diplomatic setbacks highlight a deepening, uncertain crisis.

As many as 19 vessels carrying LPG, crude oil and LNG for India are stranded in the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating West Asia conflict. These include 10 foreign-flagged ships and several Indian vessels transporting critical energy supplies. Officials said eight Indian ships have safely exited, while others remain stuck among hundreds affected by disrupted shipping. The blockage threatens India’s energy security and supply chains, as the strait handles a major share of global oil flows. Authorities are prioritising the safe evacuation of Indian-flagged vessels before considering further supply operations, highlighting the growing economic impact of the conflict. (PC: Reuters)

Amit Shah declared that India is effectively free of Naxal violence, stating that Maoism is “on the verge of extinction” ahead of the government’s March 31 deadline. He highlighted major improvements in Bastar, once a Naxal stronghold, citing expansion of schools, healthcare, ration distribution, and identity services. Shah said development has replaced the “Red Terror” that hindered progress. He reiterated the government’s stance of offering rehabilitation to those who surrender, while warning of strict action against those continuing violence. The remarks also sparked political debate, with the BJP blaming past Congress governments for the spread of Maoist insurgency.

Iran has rejected Pakistan’s offer to host potential talks with the United States, signalling reluctance to accept Islamabad as a mediator in the ongoing conflict. Tehran stated that “Pakistan’s forums are their own,” distancing itself from reports of proposed negotiations there. While Pakistan has attempted to position itself as a diplomatic bridge, Iran’s response underscores limited trust and control over negotiation optics. However, Tehran indicated it is still reviewing a broader US proposal, suggesting diplomacy remains possible under its conditions. The development highlights ongoing challenges in finding a credible mediation channel amid escalating tensions.

Iran is reviewing withdrawal from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, citing international “bullying” amid ongoing conflict. Exit would remove restrictions on nuclear weapons development and end mandatory inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency. The move follows US-Israel strikes on nuclear facilities and reports of a US plan to seize Iranian uranium. Tehran insists its programme remains peaceful despite holding significant enriched uranium stockpiles. Experts warn leaving the treaty could heighten regional instability, weaken oversight, and trigger sanctions. The review reflects a broader policy shift but does not yet confirm a final withdrawal decision. (PC: X)

Fears of internet disruption are rising as the US-Iran conflict continues and risks to Red Sea cables increase. Experts say these undersea cables carry most global data, including services used in India. The Iran-backed Houthis have earlier warned of targeting such cables. A similar incident in September 2025 caused outages across parts of Asia. Officials say India could face slow speeds and network issues if cables are damaged. Much of India’s traffic passes through Mumbai and Chennai, making them key points. Any disruption could affect payments, cloud services, and communication systems across the country. (PC: X)

Delhi Police has arrested a 47-year-old man from Mysuru for allegedly sending over 1,100 hoax bomb threats across India. The accused, Srinivas Louis, was caught from his rented home in Karnataka after a joint operation with local police. Officials said the threats targeted schools, high courts, and government offices. The arrest comes after recent messages sent to the Delhi High Court, Assembly, and other institutions. Police said the accused was produced before a magistrate after his arrest. An investigation is ongoing to find his motive and check if others were involved. (PC: X)

The destruction of a US Air Force E-3 Sentry aircraft in an Iranian strike could hurt how the US tracks threats, analysts said. Images showed the damaged jet at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia. The aircraft is a key airborne radar system. It helps detect missiles, drones, and aircraft from long range. Military analyst Cedric Leighton called the loss a “serious blow” to surveillance. He said it may affect how the US guides jets and responds to attacks. Experts said the system is vital for real-time battle control and early warning in conflict zones. (PC: CNN)