National News

Iran's Revolutionary Guard has issued a chilling video threat to bomb the massive Stargate AI data center in Abu Dhabi, a $30 billion project backed by US tech giants like Nvidia and OpenAI. This move signals a potential shift towards targeting high-value Western tech assets in the Gulf amidst escalating regional tensions, highlighting the growing vulnerability of digital infrastructure.

The IPL 2026 toss between Chennai Super Kings and Punjab Kings was disrupted by a roaring Chepauk crowd, forcing Ian Bishop to apologise for the delays. Shreyas Iyer chose to bowl first. Ruturaj Gaikwad explained CSK’s opening strategy and pitch conditions as they aim to recover from a poor start.

As Iran's drones and ballistic missiles rain down on Gulf cities, oil terminals and airfields, a quieter battle is being fought against sand, heat and open sky — one that has reshaped the outcome of every conflict ever fought on Arabian soil.

Chennai Super Kings are missing MS Dhoni due to a calf injury during their IPL 2026 clash with Punjab Kings, who chose to bowl first. After a poor opening loss, concerns remain, though coach Stephen Fleming said, “He is still heavily involved… his influence remains very strong.” CSK, led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, are rebuilding while also awaiting Dewald Brevis’ return from injury.

Trump's remark is concurrent to Washington's repeated claims that talks with Tehran have been "progressing well", though the Islamic regime, currently without the leadership, has outrightly quashed the Trump's claim. Trump's fresh assertion on Hormuz, a key chokepoint in the global oil supply route, comes a day after he appeared disgruntled that Western allies, particularly NATO, refused to shoulder their share in the war, which is nearing its fifth week after a joint US-Israeli aerial assault.

Debris from an intercepted Iranian missile injured at least 12 people in Abu Dhabi. Five Indian nationals were among those hurt. The incident occurred in the Ajban area. This follows rising tensions in the Gulf region. Churches in the UAE announced closures for Easter Sunday. Iran's Revolutionary Guard warned of attacks on US tech companies.

President Trump has appointed Vice President JD Vance as "Fraud Czar" to investigate fraud in federal benefit programs, particularly in Democrat-run states. This initiative aims to combat widespread theft of taxpayer money and could potentially balance the American budget. Raids have reportedly begun in Los Angeles as part of this effort.

Russia is ready to boost oil and liquefied natural gas supplies to India. This comes as the Middle East crisis creates global energy market volatility. Discussions between Russian and Indian officials covered expanding trade, investment, and industrial cooperation. Both nations also explored deepening engagement in civil nuclear energy. Russia confirmed its capacity for steady increases in energy shipments to India.

K Annamalai's absence from the BJP's candidate list for the Tamil Nadu assembly elections has sparked speculation. Despite being sidelined, Annamalai pledged to support all NDA candidates aiming for a significant victory. His removal as state president and subsequent marginalization are linked to alliance dynamics with AIADMK and caste considerations.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, 15, is emerging as a cricket prodigy after record-breaking IPL and Under-19 performances. Inspired by Brian Lara and Yuvraj Singh, he aims to deliver strong starts for Rajasthan Royals. Yuvraj praised his exceptional bat speed and all-round power, saying his India debut is inevitable, “not if, but when”, while stressing the importance of staying grounded.

India significantly bolstered its maritime defense with the commissioning of INS Aridaman, its third indigenous nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine. This strategic induction enhances the nation's nuclear triad capabilities. Additionally, the frigate Taragiri, a testament to 'Make in India' and advanced shipbuilding, was also inducted, boosting naval combat readiness and operational might.

The incident took place at RCDE Stadium on Tuesday, where parts of the crowd were heard chanting: "bote, bote, bote musulman el que no bote", which translates to "jump, jump, jump, whoever doesn’t jump is a Muslim". The chant was heard again later in the first half and shortly after the break.

A French-owned container ship, the Kribi, crossed the Strait of Hormuz, potentially signaling a shift in Iran's view of France following President Macron's criticism of US policy. Macron rejected military intervention to reopen the strait, advocating for negotiations instead. The vessel's change of destination to "Owner France" may have signaled its nationality to Iranian authorities.

"I don’t know what’s going on in their minds. They look committed to playing the World Cup, but I think that decision lies with them and the selectors, who will have to decide the future. My point is that they are such great players, there has to be clarity," Yuvraj said.

FIDE Master Prasenjit Dutta, a former prodigy from Tripura, runs a chess academy in New Delhi. He mentored Vaibhav Suri, India’s 27th Grandmaster, whose dedication and positional mastery shaped his rise. Today, Suri focuses entirely on supporting young phenom R Praggnanandhaa, applying his deep strategic insight as a coach, analyst, and mentor behind the scenes of elite international chess.

A US-sanctioned tanker carrying Iranian crude oil, initially bound for India, has rerouted to China. Payment issues appear to be the primary driver for this change, as sellers are reportedly tightening credit terms. This development highlights the ongoing challenges in facilitating Iranian oil trade, even with temporary US sanctions waivers.