Indian markets tumbled as escalating West Asia tensions triggered a risk-off sentiment, with the S&P BSE Sensex plunging 1,650 points to 72,882.80 and the NSE Nifty50 dropping 532 points. Concerns over disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz pushed crude above $110 per barrel, raising inflation and current account risks for India. The Indian Rupee weakened to record lows, intensifying import cost pressures. Selling was broad-based, led by metals, PSU banks, and financials, while midcaps and smallcaps fell sharply. HCL Technologies and Tata Consultancy Services were rare gainers. Volatility surged, with investors tracking geopolitical developments and oil prices closely. (PC: India Today)

A civilian staffer at an Indian Air Force station in Dibrugarh has been arrested for allegedly spying for Pakistani intelligence handlers. The accused, Sumit Kumar, a multi-tasking staff member, was apprehended in a joint operation by Rajasthan Intelligence and Air Force Intelligence. Investigations revealed he had been in contact with operatives since 2023 and was allegedly sharing sensitive information, including details about fighter aircraft, missile systems, and personnel, via social media in exchange for money. The case, registered under the Official Secrets Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, stems from an earlier arrest in Jaisalmer and may point to a wider espionage network under investigation. (PC: NDTV)

The Embassy of Iran in India expressed deep gratitude to Indians for donating money, gold, and jewellery to support Iran amid the ongoing crisis. Calling it an act of “kindness and humanity,” the embassy said such solidarity would never be forgotten. Contributions from Kashmir were highlighted, including a woman donating her late husband’s gold memento and children offering their piggy banks. Local initiatives, such as donation drives at religious sites, have mobilised communities to provide financial aid. The embassy emphasised that these gestures of compassion have brought emotional comfort to Iranians during a period of intense conflict and hardship. (PC: The Tribune)

An Indian national sustained minor injuries in Abu Dhabi after debris from an intercepted ballistic missile fell in the Al Shawamekh area. Authorities confirmed air defence systems successfully neutralised the threat. The incident comes amid escalating missile and drone attacks across Gulf nations as the conflict enters its fourth week. Dozens of Indians have been injured across the region, while six have died so far, including casualties in Saudi Arabia and Oman. The UAE has intercepted hundreds of aerial threats since the conflict began. With nearly 10 million Indians in West Asia, India and UAE officials have reiterated that expatriate safety remains a top priority. (PC: AFP)

Narendra Modi held a key security meeting to review the impact of the Iran war on India. He said, “Citizens must be safeguarded from the impact of this conflict.” The government reviewed supplies of food, fuel and fertilisers. Officials said coal stocks are enough and there will be no power shortage. Plans were made to find new import sources for key sectors. The meeting also focused on export growth and supply chains. Senior ministers attended. The government will form teams to monitor the situation and prevent shortages and price rise.

The oil tanker Aqua Titan carrying Russian crude has reached New Mangaluru port. It is the first of at least seven vessels diverted to India. The tanker was earlier bound for China but changed course in March. This came after India received a 30-day US waiver to buy Russian oil at sea. Indian refiners have increased purchases to meet demand. More tankers are expected in the coming days. The move comes as the Strait of Hormuz faces disruption due to war. The arrival of these vessels may help ease India’s fuel shortage and support energy supply in the short term.

8 Indian seafarers who survived the Skylight missile attack in the Strait of Hormuz are now trying to return home after reaching Mumbai. They spent 16 days stranded after the March 1 strike destroyed their documents. “Everything moved… within seconds there was smoke and fire,” one survivor said. The crew jumped into the sea and were rescued by an Omani boat. Many lost phones, money and papers. Some are still waiting for tickets home. “We had to jump into the water to survive,” another said. Several said they will not return to sea jobs. Authorities are helping them complete formalities. (PC: The Indian Express)

Former Pakistan envoy Abdul Basit said India could be targeted if the United States attacks Pakistan. He made the remark during a TV interview while discussing a “worst-case scenario”. “If America attacks Pakistan, we have to attack India,” he said. He added that cities like “Mumbai and New Delhi” could be hit “without a second thought”. Basit also said, “We don’t even want that to happen,” calling it hypothetical. The remarks have sparked a row due to their direct reference to Indian cities. India has not issued an official response so far. The comments come amid ongoing tensions in the region.

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to use India’s “independent role” to help end the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The request came during a phone call between the two leaders. According to Iran, Pezeshkian also proposed a regional security system led by West Asian countries “without foreign interference”. He said ending the war needs an immediate stop to US and Israeli actions. PM Modi stressed that key shipping routes must stay “open and secure”. He also said attacks on infrastructure threaten stability. Both sides discussed rising tensions and their impact on global energy supply and regional peace. (PC: X)

Indian refiners plan to buy Iranian oil after the US issued a 30-day sanctions waiver. The waiver allows purchase of oil already at sea. Sources said refiners are waiting for clear directions from the government. A source said, “We are awaiting clarity on payment and process.” The move comes as Asia faces energy pressure due to supply disruption. India depends heavily on imported crude. Around 130 to 170 million barrels of Iranian oil are currently at sea. Buyers are also checking risks linked to payments and transport. Talks are ongoing as companies try to secure supplies quickly and safely. (PC: Reuters)