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3 April

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India TodaySource

Trump Signs Executive Order Imposing Tariffs on Patented Drugs

President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing tariffs of up to 100% on some patented drugs. The tariffs are aimed at pressuring pharmaceutical companies to reach pricing deals with the administration or shift production to the United States. The order was signed on the anniversary of Trump's 'Liberation Day'.

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India TodaySource

Trump Imposes 100% Drug Tariffs, Demanding US Production and Price Deals

President Trump signed an executive order imposing tariffs of up to 100% on patented drugs, aiming to compel pharmaceutical companies to sign "most favored nation" pricing deals and move manufacturing, including ingredients, to the United States. The order cites national security concerns over drug imports, offering 0% tariffs for compliance but escalating to 100% for non-compliant firms over four years. This strategy seeks to reduce drug costs and boost domestic production.

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India TodaySource

Trump Cites National Security for Drug Tariffs

President Trump's executive order imposes tariffs of up to 100% on patented drugs, explicitly citing a threatened impairment of national security from pharmaceutical imports and ingredients. The administration presents this economic policy as a necessary measure for national defense, designed to compel pharmaceutical companies into pricing agreements or onshore production in the United States.

Scroll Staff
Scroll Staff • Scroll.inSource

Malda Hostage Incident Mastermind Arrested

Arrest of alleged mastermind Mofakkarul Islam in Malda judicial officers' hostage incident. Seven judicial officers were held hostage for hours in Malda during a protest against electoral roll deletions. Arrest of the alleged mastermind.

"I don't know who was behind yesterday's incident in Malda. I don't have any information. The incumbent CS has not even called me once. I got to know from a journalist that judges are gheraoed. There is discontentment among people in Malda, Murshidabad and Uttar Dinajpur. People have fallen prey to the BJP's game plan."Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal Chief Minister
Varsha Agarwal
Varsha Agarwal • DNA IndiaSource

Airlines' Free Seat Allocation Directive Put on Hold

The government has put the directive for airlines to allocate at least 60% of seats free of charge in abeyance. The directive aimed to ensure fair access for passengers by mandating a higher percentage of free seat allocation. The rule was announced on March 18 and has now been suspended pending further review.

"the provision would be kept “in abeyance until further orders” pending a comprehensive review of the matter."Ministry of Civil Aviation
Varsha Agarwal
Varsha Agarwal • DNA IndiaSource

Govt Backs Down on Free Seats After Airline Pushback

The government has suspended its directive mandating 60% free seat allocation on flights, yielding to intense pressure from airlines. Carriers had warned the rule, announced just weeks prior, would severely impact ancillary revenues, force higher base fares, and undermine the deregulated pricing framework. The decision, pending a comprehensive review, offers significant relief to the industry by preserving its existing revenue model.

Key voices
Varsha Agarwal
Varsha Agarwal • DNA IndiaSource

Free Seat Mandate Grounded: Passengers Face Ongoing Charges

Air travelers face a setback as the government suspends its directive for airlines to allocate 60% of seats free of charge. The decision means passengers will continue to pay additional fees for seat selection, with only 20% of seats currently available without extra cost. This reversal impacts access to more affordable travel options.

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India TodaySource

Sanctioned Tanker Reroutes from India to China Amid Payment Concerns

A U.S.-sanctioned tanker carrying Iranian crude oil rerouted from India to China mid-voyage. This incident highlights ongoing challenges in facilitating Iranian oil trade, even with temporary U.S. sanctions waivers. Payment issues appear to be the primary driver for this change, as sellers are reportedly tightening credit terms.

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CSK Hosts PBKS in First Home Game of IPL 2026 Season

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to play Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2026 Match 7. CSK are looking to bounce back after a loss in their opening game, while PBKS are aiming to continue their winning momentum. This is the first home game for CSK at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in the ongoing IPL 2026 season.

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Raghav Chadha removed as AAP Rajya Sabha Deputy Leader amid internal dissent

Raghav Chadha's removal as AAP's Deputy Leader in the Rajya Sabha. Raghav Chadha's removal from a key party post has led to public accusations and counter-accusations between party members and opposition. AAP leaders publicly criticized Chadha for prioritizing 'soft PR' and avoiding criticism of PM Modi.

"As a parliamentarian, it is the responsibility of an MP to raise their voice on regional issues or matters that are in the interest of society, which Raghav Chadha has been doing from time to time. Arvind Kejriwal is a coward and a weak person. He cannot tolerate the opposition, whether it comes from outside or from within his own party. Based on Arvind Kejriwal's nature so far, he only likes to run a collective or organised gang."Virendra Sachdeva, Delhi BJP President
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India Commissions INS Aridhaman, Third Nuclear Submarine

India commissioned its third nuclear-powered submarine, INS Aridhaman, into the Indian Navy. INS Aridhaman is part of Project ATV, aimed at building a fleet of nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines for India. The commissioning marks a significant step in India's strategic maritime capabilities and strengthens its nuclear deterrence.

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India's Third Nuclear Submarine Solidifies Deterrence

India has commissioned INS Aridhaman, its third indigenously built nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, significantly strengthening the nation's naval power and strategic maritime capabilities. This addition bolsters the sea-based leg of India's nuclear triad, marking a crucial step towards continuous nuclear deterrence. The move positions India among a select group of global powers possessing such advanced assets, underscoring its growing national power.

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Asian News International (ANI)Business Standard
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India's Third Nuclear Submarine Entry Elevates Nation to Elite Club

With the commissioning of INS Aridhaman, its third indigenously built nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, India solidifies its position within an exclusive club of global powers. This strategic milestone, highlighted by comparisons to the US, Russia, UK, France, and China, underscores the nation's advanced technological prowess and significantly elevated status on the world stage, boosting its deterrence capabilities.

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Business StandardDeccan Chronicle
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Record April Rainfall Triggers Chaos in Pune

Pune recorded its highest-ever April rainfall in at least 128 years, causing widespread disruptions. Pune experienced intense unseasonal stormy rainfall accompanied by strong winds and thunder. The record-breaking rainfall occurred on Thursday afternoon.

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Asian News International (ANI)Source

Amit Shah Addresses Golakganj Rally Via Phone After Helicopter Issues

Union Home Minister Amit Shah's election rally in Golakganj, Assam, was canceled due to a helicopter technical snag. Assam Assembly elections are scheduled for April 9. Amit Shah addressed attendees of the Golakganj rally via phone.

"The Congress turned Assam into a hub for infiltrators. If their government comes to power, infiltrators will infiltrate even within our tribal areas. You form the BJP government for the third time. Next time I come, the BJP government will selectively send back the infiltrators. All infiltrators have been identified. Time is a bit short. Give us five years, and we will selectively remove the identified infiltrators."Amit Shah, Union Home Minister
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BJP and Congress Release Tamil Nadu Candidate Lists

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released its list of 27 candidates for the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. The Tamil Nadu Assembly elections are scheduled for April 23, 2026. The candidate lists are being finalized ahead of the upcoming elections. "Tamil Nadu voters are backing the Secular Progressive Alliance over the BJP-led NDA." was attributed to Kanimozhi.

"Tamil Nadu voters are backing the Secular Progressive Alliance over the BJP-led NDA."Kanimozhi, DMK MP
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Iran Claims Downing Second US F-35 Amid F-15E Rescue Operation

Iran shot down a US F-15E fighter jet over its territory. The incident occurs amid an ongoing conflict between Iran and the US-Israel coalition. US forces have rescued one of the two crew members, while search efforts continue for the second. "search and rescue operations were ongoing" was attributed to CNN.

"search and rescue operations were ongoing"CNN
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Iran Claims F-35 Kill, Spotlighting US Stealth Jet Vulnerability

Iran leverages unconfirmed claims of downing a second US F-35 fighter jet to assert its upgraded air defense capabilities. These claims challenge the F-35's 'unkillable' reputation, signaling a potential shift in regional military balance and the vulnerability of advanced US technology.

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LiveMintThe Economic Times
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US Rejects Iran's F-35 Claim, Counters Narrative of Military Setback

US Central Command (CENTCOM) firmly denies Iran's claims of shooting down a second F-35 fighter jet and capturing its pilot. This rejection serves to counter Iranian assertions and maintain a narrative of operational control and success amidst ongoing regional tensions. The US aims to project an image of military effectiveness against Tehran's claims.

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The Economic TimesIndia TV News
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Escalating West Asia Conflict Fuels Regional Economic Strain

The escalating conflict in West Asia, underscored by events like the alleged F-35 downing, is generating significant economic repercussions across the region. Neighboring nations face severe disruptions to supply chains and rising logistics costs, threatening industrial production. This widespread instability has also driven up fuel prices, with countries like Pakistan implementing sharp increases to manage consumption.

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The Hindu
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The HinduSource

INS Taragiri commissioned into Indian Navy

INS Taragiri commissioned into Indian Navy. The induction of Taragiri comes at a time when the strategic and maritime importance of India's eastern seaboard continues to grow. INS Taragiri was commissioned in Visakhapatnam.

"the commissioning reflects the Indian Navy's sustained focus on strengthening combat readiness and operational might"Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister
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The Economic TimesSource

Modi Praises Samson After India's T20 World Cup Win

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Sanju Samson's performance in the T20 World Cup. Sanju Samson was a key player in India's T20 World Cup victory. Sanju Samson was named Player of the Tournament in the T20 World Cup. "Sanju Samson's resilience and teamwork as a model for BJP workers in Kerala." was attributed to Narendra Modi.

"Sanju Samson's resilience and teamwork as a model for BJP workers in Kerala."Narendra Modi, Prime Minister
Raju Das
Raju Das • OpIndiaSource

NCERT Deemed University Status Granted

The Union Ministry of Education formally notified the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) as an institution deemed to be a university. NCERT is the apex body for school education research and training in India. The notification marks a structural shift in the role of the country's apex school education body.

Raju Das
Raju Das • OpIndiaSource

NCERT Elevated to Deemed University, Expands Higher Education Mandate

The Union Ministry of Education has formally granted NCERT 'deemed university' status, marking a significant structural shift. This new designation allows NCERT to award its own degrees and offer a range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs, fundamentally expanding its role beyond traditional curriculum and textbook development into the higher education space.

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United News of India (UNI)Deccan Herald
Raju Das
Raju Das • OpIndiaSource

NCERT's University Status: Expansion or State Control

The Union Ministry of Education's decision to grant NCERT deemed university status, enabling it to award degrees and launch new programs, draws critical scrutiny. The move prompts questions over whether this represents a genuine expansion of educational autonomy or a strategic effort to deepen government control over the national curriculum and pedagogical direction. This development sparks debate about the true intent behind the institutional upgrade.

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India Today
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Deccan HeraldSource

Congress MLA Disqualified in MP After Conviction

Madhya Pradesh Assembly Secretariat terminated the membership of Congress MLA Rajendra Bharti from the Datia Assembly constituency. Rajendra Bharti is an opposition Congress MLA. The termination followed his conviction in a bank fraud case. "we do not want any disturbance in the present differentials and relative strength" was attributed to Jairam Ramesh.

"we do not want any disturbance in the present differentials and relative strength"Jairam Ramesh, Congress general secretary in-charge communications
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Asian News International (ANI)Source

Supreme Court Modifies Rajasthan SI Exam Relief Order

The Supreme Court modified its earlier order granting relief to candidates for the Rajasthan Sub-Inspector (SI)/Platoon Commander Recruitment Examination 2025. The RPSC is conducting the Sub-Inspector recruitment examination in Rajasthan. The court modified its order on Friday, restricting the relief to a single candidate after the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) cited logistical challenges.

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India TodaySource

Pakistan hikes fuel prices amid global oil surge

Pakistan hiked consumer prices for diesel and petrol sharply. Global oil prices have surged due to geopolitical tensions related to the Iran war. The hikes occurred on a Thursday.

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India TodaySource

Hegseth Asks Army Chief of Staff George to Step Down

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth asked U.S. Army Chief of Staff General Randy George to step down. General Randy George became the U.S. Army Chief of Staff in 2023. The request for retirement comes amid the ongoing war with Iran.

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Trump Threatens Iran, Cites Strait of Hormuz

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. could open the Strait of Hormuz with more time and take the oil to make a fortune. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil supply. Trump's statements come amid escalating conflict in the region and growing global oil fears.

"US can open Strait of Hormuz 'with a little more time"Donald Trump, US President
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Trump's Iran Threats: A Bid to Force Talks Amid Widening Conflict

President Trump's threats to target Iranian infrastructure and 'open' the Strait of Hormuz are interpreted as a strategic maneuver to compel Iran into negotiations or signal a potential end to the escalating conflict. These aggressive statements come as the US-Israel war with Iran deepens into its second month, even as Tehran firmly denies any ongoing talks or confidence in future discussions.

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Times Now
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Trump's Hormuz Threat Escalates Global Oil Shock Fears

US President Donald Trump's threats to control the Strait of Hormuz and 'take the oil' are intensifying fears of a global oil shock. As the US-Israel conflict with Iran deepens into its second month, these remarks highlight the growing economic vulnerability of global financial markets and the wider economy.

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The HinduTimes Now
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Diplomatic Deadlock: Iran Rejects Talks Amid Escalating Conflict, Mediation Push

Iran firmly rejects negotiations with the US, citing a lack of confidence in talks as the US-Israel conflict deepens into its second month with intensified strikes and aggressive threats from President Trump. Despite this diplomatic deadlock, international efforts, including calls from the UN and mediation by Pakistan, continue to press for de-escalation.

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Al JazeeraOutlook India
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LiveMintSource

Iran Threatens Retaliation After Strikes

US-Israeli strikes hit Iran's B1 bridge. The strikes are part of escalating tensions in the Middle East. Iran has released a list of eight major bridges in the Middle East as potential retaliation targets following the strike. "the country’s largest bridge will be “built back stronger,” but America’s standing won't recover." was attributed to Iranian officials.

"the country’s largest bridge will be “built back stronger,” but America’s standing won't recover."Iranian officials
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LiveMintSource

Iran Threatens Gulf Bridges, Cites US 'Moral Collapse'

Following US-Israeli strikes that killed its Deputy Intelligence Chief and hit civilian sites, Iran has vowed 'crushing' retaliation. Tehran released a 'hit-list' of eight Middle East bridges as potential targets, condemning the attacks as a sign of US 'moral collapse' and defeat, asserting America's standing will not recover.

Key voices
Al JazeeraIndia Today
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LiveMintSource

US-Israel Vow 'Much More' After Iran Strikes

Following deadly US-Israeli strikes on Iranian infrastructure, including the B1 bridge, President Donald Trump and other officials are issuing stark warnings. Trump declared "much more to follow" and that the US "hasn't even started," signaling a clear intent for further escalation of attacks on Iranian infrastructure.

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LiveMintSource

US-Israeli strikes have targeted Iran's civilian infrastructure and healthcare

US-Israeli strikes have targeted Iran's civilian infrastructure and healthcare, causing significant humanitarian impact. Attacks have hit a major bridge, killing eight and injuring 95 civilians, and a century-old medical research center near Tehran. These strikes underscore a pattern of targeting non-military sites.

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Al JazeeraThe Hindu
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LiveMintSource

Strike on Top Negotiator Targets Iran Diplomacy

Critics charge that the US-Israeli strike critically injuring former Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharazi, a key advisor in back-channel negotiations with the US, was a deliberate act to sabotage ongoing diplomatic efforts. The attack on this central figure in Iran's diplomatic outreach casts a shadow over prospects for de-escalation.

Key voices