An Indian-flagged LPG tanker, Jag Vasant, has successfully docked at Vadinar port in Gujarat, bringing relief amid concerns over fuel supply disruptions caused by the ongoing Iran–Israel war. The vessel had been stranded for nearly 23 days near the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route affected by heightened military tensions. Its arrival reassures authorities as India faces pressure on LPG supplies due to delayed shipments. The government has been closely monitoring maritime routes and supply chains, as multiple Indian vessels remain impacted by the conflict, highlighting the vulnerability of energy imports during geopolitical crises. (PC: X)

At least six people were killed in airstrikes near Qom, Iran, amid the ongoing US–Israel–Iran war, highlighting persistent violence inside Iranian territory. On the diplomatic front, **US President Donald Trump announced a pause in planned strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure — extending the deadline to April 6 — amid reported negotiations, calling talks “going very well.” Iran described the US peace proposal as “one‑sided and unfair,” making a breakthrough uncertain. The halt aims to ease tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil transit route, as global markets watch closely. (PC: X)

The Government of India has slashed special additional excise duty on petrol and diesel by ₹10 per litre each in response to rising crude prices driven by the US–Israel–Iran war and tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. Under the move, the excise duty on petrol has been reduced from ₹13 to ₹3 per litre and on diesel from ₹10 to zero, according to official orders. The reduction aims to cushion Indian consumers and oil companies against international fuel cost pressures, potentially slowing domestic price spikes. (PC: India Today)

The Delhi government has scrapped its controversial plan to purchase two ₹6.2 crore luxury VIP boats for inspections of the Yamuna River after public criticism and media scrutiny. The vessels, featuring air‑conditioned cabins, pantry, and premium seating, were deemed unnecessary for official use. An inquiry revealed procedural lapses in issuing the tender, leading to the suspension of an executive engineer and an assistant engineer. Authorities have mandated that any future boat acquisitions be strictly for essential purposes such as river surveillance, pollution monitoring, and flood management, avoiding luxury amenities. (PC: HT)

U.S. President Donald Trump has postponed a threatened strike on Iran’s energy infrastructure and extended the deadline for reopening the Strait of Hormuz to April 6, citing ongoing negotiations to end the war. Iran had earlier closed the crucial waterway, a key route for about 20 % of global oil trade, after U.S.–Israeli strikes that escalated missile and drone attacks across the region. Global markets reacted sharply, with Wall Street recording its largest losses since the conflict began, highlighting economic vulnerability amid rising oil prices and heightened geopolitical tensions. (PC: AP)

A major escalation in the Israel–Iran war saw deadly strikes in northern Israel, with missiles and drones causing casualties and damage as Iran expands its attacks across the region. Israel and the U.S. have responded with intensified airstrikes deep inside Iran, targeting military sites and weapons facilities near Tehran and central Iran. Explosions were reported in Iranian cities amid heavy bombardment. Diplomatic efforts, including a U.S. ceasefire proposal, have been rejected by Tehran, and global oil markets remain volatile as hostilities continue to widen. (PC: X)

U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that the “present” Iran gave Washington amid negotiations was allowing 10 oil tankers — reportedly flying Pakistan flags — to transit the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz as a goodwill gesture. Trump framed the move as Tehran showing seriousness in indirect talks to end the Iran‑U.S. war, after weeks of tension and a limited blockade of the waterway. The White House presented the passage of vessels as a concession, though details on destination, ownership, and Iran’s official response remain unclear. 

Amid escalating tensions in West Asia disrupting global oil and gas supply chains, concerns have risen in India over a possible fuel crisis. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, however, has assured that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, or LPG across the country. India currently has around 60 days of crude oil reserves and continues to diversify imports from multiple global sources to offset disruptions, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz. While panic buying and misinformation have triggered local supply pressures and increased LPG demand, authorities maintain that distribution remains stable and sufficient, urging citizens to avoid hoarding. (PC: The Hindu)

At least 24–26 people were killed when a passenger bus carrying around 40–50 people plunged into the Padma River in Bangladesh’s Rajbari district while attempting to board a ferry. The हादसा occurred on March 25, 2026, near the Daulatdia ferry terminal, about 100 km from Dhaka. The bus reportedly lost control, overturned, and sank nearly 30 feet underwater. Rescue teams, including fire service divers, army, police, and coast guard, recovered multiple bodies, including women and children, while some passengers managed to swim to safety. Operations were hampered by strong currents, and authorities fear more victims may still be missing. 

Amid the ongoing Iran war, Douglas Macgregor suggested that Narendra Modi could play a crucial role in brokering peace between Iran and United States. He argued that India’s balanced ties with multiple global powers make it uniquely positioned to mediate effectively. Macgregor added that Donald Trump is more likely to listen to Modi than other leaders. In contrast, he dismissed Pakistan as a neutral mediator, citing credibility concerns and internal challenges. As diplomatic efforts stall and conflict intensifies, India’s role is increasingly viewed as potentially pivotal in facilitating dialogue and de-escalation. (PC: India Today)