Times of India

Kerala's 2026 assembly elections will test Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan's governance model against mounting voter unease, fiscal stress, and internal CPM rifts. The LDF faces challenges from anti-incumbency, economic strain, and perception gaps, while Vijayan aims to counter this with a narrative of development and strong leadership.

Stock markets will observe a closure on April 3rd for Good Friday, marking the beginning of several scheduled holidays for the remainder of 2026. Investors are advised to note these closures, which impact trading strategies and fund settlements. The article also outlines the daily trading hours, including pre-open, main trading, and closing sessions, alongside specific timings for block deals.

Humans have once again ventured beyond Earth's orbit as NASA's Artemis II mission successfully propelled its crew towards the Moon. This historic flight, the first since 1972, carries a diverse crew on a lunar flyby, marking a significant step in humanity's return to deep space exploration and paving the way for future lunar missions.

Dynamic duo KL Rahul and Athiya Shetty have masterfully designed chic residences in both Mumbai and Bangalore. Their Mumbai apartment features sleek, contemporary décor with breathtaking city vistas, while their Bangalore home reflects an opulent yet understated style brimming with lush greenery.

President Trump asserted that Israel would follow his lead in ending the Iran war, stating they would stop military action when he decides. This comes after a Trump-directed operation, Operation Epic Fury, led to the elimination of Iran's supreme leader. Despite Netanyahu's push for a sustained offensive, Trump acknowledged Iran's resilience and sought an off-ramp amid declining domestic support.

US President Trump has imposed steep 100% tariffs on imported patented medicines and new duties on steel, aluminium, and copper. This aims to compel companies to manufacture within the US, with exemptions for some nations. The move seeks to bolster domestic production and national security, building on previous trade actions.

White House planning reportedly indicates potential exits for key figures like FBI Director Kash Patel, Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll, and Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer. These discussions follow a recent wave of senior official removals, suggesting a broader administrative shake-up. The timing of any further changes remains uncertain as President Trump has not finalized decisions.

Raghav Chadha, a former key AAP figure, appears sidelined, fueling speculation with his absence from public events and silence on crucial party issues. His prolonged absence during Arvind Kejriwal's arrest and subsequent lack of comment on the excise case have intensified these questions. Punjab Congress president suggests Chadha is distancing himself from the party.

Pakistan's recent surge in petrol and diesel prices, marking the second rise in just a few weeks, stems from the chaos of war in the Middle East that has shaken the stability of global oil markets. The government has described these increases as unavoidable to alleviate the mounting pressures of fuel subsidies on national finances.

Filmmaker Sanjay Gupta critiqued the 'Ramayana' teaser, questioning the hype around its Oscar-winning VFX team, emphasizing that technicians, not companies, receive accolades. His earlier 'Khoda pahaad… nikla chuha' comment also drew parallels to the teaser's mixed reception, with some viewers deeming the visuals disappointing. Read on to know more in detail.

Ravichandran Ashwin has appealed to Rishabh Pant to open the batting for Lucknow Super Giants in every match of IPL 2026. Pant's batting position has been a key discussion point. Ashwin believes opening will benefit Pant and the team. Pant himself stated his role is still uncertain but he will bat in the top order.

A 23-year-old Ayurvedic doctor, Dr. MU Nikitha, allegedly died by suicide in Chitradurga district after facing harassment. A death note indicated she was distressed by rumors of an illicit relationship with a lecturer, spread by college students and the lecturer's wife. Police have registered a case against the lecturer, his wife, and some students.

A woman and her two young daughters were discovered dead in a swimming pool on the outskirts of Punnole village. The woman's father alleges her husband murdered them, suspecting the unborn child was also a girl and citing a history of harassment. Police are investigating and searching for the accused.

Pakistan Super League opener Fakhar Zaman's appeal against a two-match ban for ball tampering has been dismissed. The appellate body upheld the original decision, finding him guilty of breaching the code of conduct during a match against Karachi Kings. This means Fakhar will miss crucial upcoming fixtures for the Lahore Qalandars.

A 26-year-old software professional from Bihar allegedly died by suicide in Hyderabad, found by her husband. Police have taken the husband into custody, citing alleged mental harassment for dowry and pressure for investment in his startup. The couple, married in February after a five-year live-in relationship, reportedly faced marital discord.

Ukraine’s Anna Muzychuk defeated Russia’s Kateryna Lagno in Round 4 of the Women’s Candidates 2026, with no handshake or acknowledgement reflecting ongoing geopolitical tensions. Muzychuk’s precise play exploited Lagno’s critical error on move 28, winning in 31 moves. The victory puts Muzychuk atop the leaderboard with 2.5 points, tied with Bibisara Assaubayeva.

Ajinkya Rahane fiercely defended his batting and leadership after Kolkata Knight Riders' heavy defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad. He dismissed critics questioning his strike rate, claiming they have agendas and are jealous of his success. Despite KKR's collapse, Rahane insisted his intent was clear and backed his approach, remaining defiant amidst mounting pressure.

Despite Sunrisers Hyderabad's dominant 65-run victory over Kolkata Knight Riders, all-rounder Abhishek Sharma was fined 25% of his match fees and received one demerit point for breaching the IPL Code of Conduct. Sharma admitted to the Level 1 offense, which occurred during SRH's explosive 82-run opening stand.