The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast thunderstorms, gusty winds and rainfall across multiple districts of West Bengal in the coming days. The weather pattern is linked to seasonal Kalbaishakhi storms, which are common during the pre-monsoon period in eastern India. Key Highlights Weather Forecast for South Bengal According to the IMD, districts in south Bengal are likely to experience thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds on Friday. Wind speeds could reach 50–60 kmph in some areas, while Kolkata and nearby regions may see gusts of 40–50 kmph along with lightning. Rainfall is…

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed gratitude to the Centre for approving an additional financial assistance of ₹5,000 crore for the Union Territory. The announcement was shared by the Chief Minister’s Office on March 27. Key Highlights Centre Extends Financial Support The financial package has been provided as Additional Central Assistance, a mechanism through which the Union government supports states and Union Territories for specific development needs. According to officials, the funds are intended to accelerate ongoing projects and strengthen economic and social infrastructure across Jammu and Kashmir. Official…

With preparations underway for the FIFA World Cup 2026, FIFA Vice President Victor Montagliani has downplayed concerns over security and political challenges surrounding the tournament. Speaking in Atlanta, he said such issues are common ahead of major global events and are often amplified. Key Highlights Security and Political Concerns The 2026 World Cup, scheduled to take place across North America, has faced scrutiny over a range of issues, including global conflicts, immigration policies, and safety concerns in host regions. Some teams and fans have raised questions about travel restrictions and visa processes, while…

The electoral prospects of Swapna Barman have come under a cloud following a disciplinary dispute with her employer, the Railways. Barman, an Asian Games gold medallist and recent entrant into the All India Trinamool Congress, has been named as a candidate from the Rajganj Assembly constituency in West Bengal’s Jalpaiguri district. Key Highlights Dispute Over Service Rules The issue stems from Barman’s entry into active politics while still employed with the Railways. She joined the Trinamool Congress on February 27 and was later announced as a candidate without formally resigning from her government…

The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Crime Branch in Kashmir conducted raids at multiple locations in Srinagar and Budgam on March 26 as part of an investigation into alleged siphoning of government funds during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key Highlights Investigation and Allegations According to officials, the case was registered following a complaint by a Delhi-based trading firm, which alleged it was misled by two individuals on the pretext of supplying medical equipment during the pandemic. Preliminary findings suggest that the accused used fraudulent methods to obtain funds, including payments…

The annual Chaitra Navratri pilgrimage to the Mata Vaishno Devi Temple has witnessed a significant surge in footfall this year, with over 2.69 lakh devotees visiting the shrine so far. The nine-day festival, which began on March 19, continues to draw large numbers of pilgrims to the hill shrine in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district. Key Highlights Heavy Footfall During Navratri According to officials from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, 2,69,716 pilgrims had offered prayers at the temple by March 25. The yatra has been proceeding smoothly despite the heavy…

The Odisha government has assured residents that there is no shortage of LPG, petrol, or diesel in the state, amid rising concerns over fuel availability. Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra said the situation is under control and urged citizens not to engage in panic buying. Key Highlights Government Assures Adequate Supply Addressing concerns, the minister stated that fuel supplies across Odisha remain stable and well-managed. He emphasised that current stock levels are sufficient to meet both domestic and commercial demand. According to official estimates, the state currently has…

Indian stock markets continued their upward momentum on March 25, with both the BSE Sensex and Nifty 50 closing sharply higher for the second consecutive session. The rally was driven by improving global sentiment, particularly signs of easing geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Key Highlights Broad-Based Market Rally Markets opened on a strong note and maintained momentum through most of the session, supported by sustained buying across sectors. Both benchmark indices climbed close to their recent highs during midday trading before witnessing some profit booking in the afternoon. Despite this…