India Announces Major Fuel Duty Cuts Amid Global Oil Supply Disruptions
In a significant move to address economic pressures, the Indian government has revised excise duties on petroleum products. The special additional excise duty on petrol has been slashed to Rs 3 per litre, down from Rs 13 per litre previously. Simultaneously, the duty on diesel has been reduced to nil, from Rs 10 per litre earlier. This decision, formalized in a government order dated Thursday, comes as global oil supply chains face disruptions due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly with Iran tightening control over the Strait of Hormuz.
High-Level Inter-Ministerial Panel Formed to Monitor Middle East Fallout
To oversee issues arising from the ongoing Middle East conflict, Union Minister Rajnath Singh is set to head an inter-ministerial group. The panel includes key ministers such as Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, among others. This group aims to coordinate government responses and mitigate impacts on India's economy and security.
US Envoy Concludes India Visit, Advocates for Enhanced Military Cooperation
US Under Secretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby wrapped up his official visit to India on Thursday, emphasizing the need for closer military cooperation. The visit, which began on Tuesday, focused on advancing the India-US defence partnership and aligning with the 2026 National Defence Strategy. High-level consultations with senior Indian officials were held to strengthen strategic defence ties.
Former Cricketer Yograj Singh Backs MS Dhoni Amid Retirement Talks
In a notable shift, former India cricketer Yograj Singh has expressed strong support for MS Dhoni, urging him to continue playing in the IPL. Yograj, previously a critic, praised Dhoni's longevity, discipline, and commitment, dismissing calls for retirement based on age. He highlighted Dhoni's value to the game ahead of IPL 2026.
Questions Arise Over Iran's Advanced Missile Systems Amid Regional Strikes
As Tehran continues missile activities in the Middle East, attention turns to its advanced systems like Qassem Basir and Fattah-2. Iran's defence ministry unveiled the Qassem Basir missile in May last year, claiming it can strike enemies with a manoeuvrable 500kg warhead and an optically guided terminal seeker immune to electronic jamming. Reports suggest Tehran may be holding back these sophisticated weapons, raising strategic questions.
