State‑run oil marketing companies have raised premium petrol prices in India by up to ₹2.35 per litre, effective March 20, 2026, amid global energy supply disruptions linked to Middle East tensions. The hike affects high‑octane variants like BPCL’s Speed, HPCL’s Power and IOCL’s XP95, while the price of regular petrol and diesel remains unchanged for now. Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma noted petrol and diesel prices are deregulated and set by companies. The move comes as international crude and gas markets react to geopolitical conflicts around the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global fuel costs. (PC: AFP)

India’s Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that the country is sourcing crude oil from multiple nations, including Russia, to ensure stable domestic energy supplies amid rising global market disruptions. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the government’s focus on diversifying import sources and reducing reliance on any single supplier. This strategy aims to maintain steady availability of crude and LPG for Indian consumers despite tensions in West Asia affecting shipping and fuel flows. The approach underscores India’s pragmatic energy security measures and readiness to navigate geopolitical uncertainties while safeguarding national energy needs. (PC: X)

A firing incident in Delhi left four people injured, including a father and his two children, after assailants arrived on motorcycles and opened fire at their residence. Authorities suspect the case may be linked to an ongoing gang rivalry, though investigations are still underway. The injured were immediately taken to a nearby hospital, where they are receiving treatment. Police teams have begun examining CCTV footage and gathering evidence from the scene to identify those involved. Security in the area has been increased, and officials are working to determine the motive while urging residents to remain calm.

Two school friends from Howrah, Arnava Chakraborty and Anik Bhattacharya, have built a drone component start-up called DarkMatter. The firm began in a small rented room in Bally Halt in 2022. It now makes flight controllers and electronic speed controllers. The founders say Bengal lacks a strong support system for drone makers. “There is no proper support… funds should be distributed to start-ups solving problems,” Bhattacharya said. The four-member team learnt through trial and error. They have supplied bulk orders to private buyers and Indian military divisions. The company says it is among only a few such firms in India. (PC: X)

Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei warned of retaliation after senior official Ali Larijani was killed in a strike blamed on the US and Israel. He said, “criminals will soon pay for his blood.” The killing marks a sharp rise in the ongoing conflict. Larijani was a key figure in Iran’s security and political system. Officials said his death could affect decision-making during the war. He had strong links with both political leaders and the security forces. The conflict has already seen several top leaders killed. Casualties continue to rise across Iran, Israel and the wider region. (PC: India Today)

The Centre has offered extra commercial LPG to states that speed up piped natural gas rollout during the current shortage. It said allocation can rise from 20% to 30% if states support faster PNG expansion. Petroleum Secretary Neeraj Mittal said it would be a “smart move” to shift users to PNG. The shortage follows disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, a key supply route. India depends heavily on LPG imports through this route. The government has prioritised household supply, while commercial users face shortages. States can get extra allocation by clearing approvals and helping gas companies expand networks quickly. (PC: The Indian Express)

A family in Bengaluru tried to send an elderly man as a courier parcel to Mangaluru to protest high travel fares. The incident happened at a courier office where staff asked about the package. The family opened a gunny bag and the man came out alive, shocking workers. Staff refused the request. A woman later said it was a planned social media video to highlight rising ticket prices before Ugadi and Ramzan. Police traced the family and gave a warning. An officer said, “We made them understand that it was wrong.” No case was filed. (PC: The Indian Express)

A devastating fire broke out in a residential building near Palam Metro in Delhi, killing seven people and injuring several others. According to a fire control room official, an emergency call was received around 7 am reporting the blaze at a building in Gali Number-2, Shri Ram Chowk. Firefighters rushed to the scene and launched rescue operations, as multiple residents were feared trapped inside. Some victims reportedly suffered severe burns or injuries while attempting to escape. Authorities have brought the fire under control, and an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the incident.

In a major relief for passengers, the Indian government has directed airlines to keep at least 60% of seats on flights available at regulated or capped fares to prevent sudden price surges. The move aims to protect flyers from exorbitant ticket prices during peak demand, emergencies, or disruptions. Authorities emphasised maintaining affordability and transparency in pricing, ensuring fair access to air travel. Airlines will still be allowed dynamic pricing for the remaining seats. The decision comes amid concerns over rising airfare volatility, and is expected to make flying more accessible and predictable for passengers across the country. (PC: Reuters)

The Centre informed the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court that it is taking all measures to prevent LPG shortages amid disruptions caused by the West Asia war. An affidavit by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta stated the government is monitoring the situation and ensuring smooth distribution. The court disposed of a petition against Confidence Petroleum India Ltd, accused of prioritising exports over domestic supply. Petitioners cited supply constraints due to the Iran war and sought increased domestic allocation. The Centre said strict action would be taken against violations and emphasised prioritising household LPG availability across affected regions nationwide. (PC: X)