Times of India

The International Energy Agency's historic 400 million barrel oil reserve release offers limited relief as the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. S&P Global Energy warns this move won't solve the core issue of disrupted shipping, leaving Asian markets particularly vulnerable. Markets face continued imbalance until this critical chokepoint reopens.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla for his composure and impartiality following the rejection of a no-confidence motion against him. Modi commended Birla's adherence to parliamentary decorum and his affirmation that no one is above the rules, reinforcing democratic traditions.

Virat Kohli, in a recent 'This or That' challenge, named Chris Gayle as his top T20 opener over Rohit Sharma. Kohli's selections progressed through Adam Gilchrist, Travis Head, and Virender Sehwag before reaching the final showdown. Gayle's prolific T20 record, including the highest individual IPL score, solidifies his legendary status in the format.

By-elections for eight assembly seats across six states, including Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Nagaland, and Tripura, have been announced by the Election Commission. Polling dates are set for April 9 and April 23, with vote counting scheduled for May 4. These elections will fill vacant legislative seats, ensuring full representation in state assemblies.

Puducherry will vote for its 30 Assembly seats on April 9, 2026, with results announced on May 4. Nearly 9.44 lakh voters are eligible, including 23,033 first-time electors. The Election Commission emphasized free and fair polls, deploying extensive webcasting and model polling stations. The NDA, including AINRC and BJP, has finalized its seat-sharing plan.

The Trinamool Congress won a decisive victory in the 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections, securing a third consecutive term. The party claimed 213 seats in the 294-member assembly. The Bharatiya Janata Party emerged as the principal opposition, winning 77 seats. This election marked a significant shift in the state's political landscape.

Scientists warn that habitual short-form video consumption may be weakening crucial brain circuits for deep thinking and focus. Studies show a negative correlation between short-video addiction and prefrontal brain activity, impacting attention, impulse control, and self-regulation.

The Election Commission has unveiled the assembly poll schedule for West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala, and Puducherry. Key political players like Mamata Banerjee, MK Stalin, and Himanta Biswa Sarma are gearing up for intense electoral battles across these states and the Union Territory.

Tamil Nadu gears up for assembly elections on April 23, with vote counting on May 4. The DMK-led alliance seeks to retain power against the AIADMK-NDA bloc. Notably, actor Vijay's new party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, has emerged as a significant contender, aiming to disrupt the established political landscape.

Indian equity markets face a volatile week, driven by Middle East conflict developments and crude oil price movements. Investors are also keenly watching the US Federal Reserve's interest rate decision and inflation data. Steep losses were recorded last week amid rising oil, a weakening rupee, and foreign fund outflows.

A US judge has ruled that Elon Musk cannot be questioned about his ketamine use during his upcoming trial against OpenAI. The judge deemed the drug use irrelevant to the dispute over OpenAI's nonprofit structure, though limited questioning about Burning Man attendance may be allowed. The trial will focus on Musk's claims of being misled about OpenAI's nonprofit status.

Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has announced his retirement from all formats of cricket. The wicketkeeper-batter, who led Pakistan to major ICC tournament final victories, will now focus on administrative and mentoring roles. His retirement opens the door for a potential long-term appointment as the national Test team's head coach.

India is well-prepared for Middle East crisis disruptions, with ample fuel stocks and no supply issues reported. The government is diversifying gas import sources and will soon announce support for affected exporters, including insurance schemes. Despite short-term economic pressures and rupee stress, India remains confident in its growth trajectory.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced a Rs 500 hike in monthly honorariums for priests and muezzins, raising their pay to Rs 2,000. This move, along with the approval of all new applications, was made just before the Election Commission declared poll dates. Banerjee stated the decision recognizes the vital role of religious functionaries in community life.

Sixteen-year-old Mayank Chakraborty has made history as the first Grandmaster from Assam and Northeast India. His landmark achievement in Sweden follows years of immense sacrifice, including his mother, Dr. Monomita Chakraborty, resigning from her medical career to support his journey. While celebrated as India’s 94th GM, Mayank’s family now seeks government and corporate backing to sustain his elite professional career.