New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday held a telephonic conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, during which Tehran called on the India-led BRICS grouping to play an independent role in “preventing aggression” against Tehran amid the escalating Middle East crisis.This was the second conversation between the two leaders since tensions escalated on February 28.“The President of the Islamic Republic of Iran had a telephone conversation with the Prime Minister of India, during which they discussed and exchanged views on bilateral relations as well as regional and international developments in the light of the United States and the ongoing military aggression by the Zionist regime against Iran,” the Iranian Embassy in India said in a statement.Referring to India’s rotating chairmanship of BRICS, President Pejakian “called for the grouping to play an independent role in stopping aggression against Iran and safeguarding regional and international peace and stability.”The Iranian president “underscored the dimensions of aggression, unlawful attacks and crimes committed by the Zionist regime and the Zionist regime, stressing that Iran did not initiate the war.” he told PM Modi Referring to the attacks carried out under the administration of US President Donald Trump, it said “the aggressor, without any justification, logic or legal basis, carried out military strikes against Iran during the ongoing nuclear negotiations, resulting in the martyrdom of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, senior military commanders and numerous defenseless civilians, including innocent school children, as well as the targeting of public infrastructure.”Pezeshkian further alleged that the US targeted the school in Minab, calling it one of the most serious civilian casualties in the conflict.“The US targeted the school in Minab from bases located in neighboring countries with military installations, resulting in the tragic martyrdom of 168 innocent school children,” the President said.Pezeshkian also rejected US claims that the military action was aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.He said that in several meetings attended by the Supreme Leader, “the late leader of the Islamic Revolution had strongly opposed nuclear weapons and issued administrative and religious instructions prohibiting any steps towards their development.” He also rejected accusations of portraying Iran as a source of regional instability, instead emphasizing that Israel has “carried out attacks and killings in countries including Lebanon, Gaza, Iran, Iraq, and Qatar under the pretext of maintaining security while fueling unrest.”The Iranian President reiterated his country’s willingness to engage in dialogue with global leaders, including the United Nations, for verification and monitoring of its nuclear program. He described the actions of America and Israel as “extremely inhumane and immoral” and strongly condemned them.Expressing deep concern over the rising tensions, “PM Modi strongly condemned attacks on energy infrastructure, warning that such actions pose a serious threat to global food and energy security as well as agricultural exports,” the President said.Referring to his ongoing discussions with world leaders, the Prime Minister also reiterated that war serves no one’s interests and called on all parties to move swiftly towards dialogue and peace.PM Modi also proposed the creation of a regional security framework involving West Asian countries, which aims to maintain peace and stability through cooperation within the region without external interference.Also read: ‘Condemn attacks on critical infrastructure’: PM Modi speaks to Iran President, says ‘shipping lanes must remain open’Earlier, sharing details of the same conversation on X, PM Modi had said, “Attacks on critical infrastructure in the region are condemned, which threaten regional stability and disrupt global supply chains.”He “reiterated the importance of protecting freedom of navigation and ensuring that shipping lanes remain open and safe.”The Prime Minister also stressed the need to ensure the security of the Strait of Hormuz and maintain freedom of navigation in the Persian Gulf, given their important role in global trade and energy supply.PM Modi also lauded Tehran’s support for Indian citizens, saying he “appreciates Iran’s continued support for the safety of Indian citizens in Iran.” The talks came amid fresh reports of joint US-Israel strikes on Iran’s Natanz uranium enrichment facility. Iranian media said the site was targeted again, although there were no immediate signs of a radioactive leak.Amid growing fears of an energy crisis, India has stepped up diplomatic engagement with Iran with a focus on ensuring uninterrupted flow of energy supplies and security of key shipping routes. The government has indicated that it prefers dialogue and diplomacy rather than engaging in any US-led military effort in the region.

Prasad Sanya, group business head of TOI, Indiatimes and WhatsApp

Lucknow: The eighth edition of The Times of India Sports Awards (TOISA) 2025 began on a grand note in Lucknow on Saturday, celebrating the tireless spirit and excellence of India’s finest athletes. Amidst a gathering of sports stalwarts, Olympic heroes and rising stars, Prasad Sanyal, Group Business Head, TOI, Indiatimes and WhatsApp, delivered an inspiring inaugural address that outlined the evolution of the awards from an event to a national movement.Welcoming the distinguished audience to the heart of Uttar Pradesh, Sanyal highlighted that TOISA has become the cornerstone of the Indian sporting calendar. “Years ago when we first conceptualized the Times of India Sports Awards, we had a simple yet powerful vision – to create a platform that truly celebrates the spirit of Indian sports,” Sanyal said. “Not just wins, not just medals, but the journey, the struggle, the sweat and the unwavering determination that defines every athlete’s story.”This year’s theme, “More Sweat More Glory” was the focal point of the evening. Sanyal emphasized that the accolades presented on stage were merely the tip of the iceberg, representing years of invisible sacrifice.“Glory doesn’t come easily. It comes from countless hours spent in the gym when no one is watching. It comes from early morning training sessions when the world is still asleep. It comes from getting up after every fall, every defeat, every setback and saying ‘one more time.’ That’s what our athletes do. day to day. year after year. And tonight, we honor that sentiment,” he said. Celebrating the awards in Lucknow for the third consecutive year, Sanyal lauded the growing role of the host state as a nursery for champions. On this occasion, he said that the change in the sports landscape of Uttar Pradesh before the arrival of Honorable Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been “remarkable”.Acknowledging the distinguished jury comprising stalwarts like Leander Paes, Mithali Raj, Abhinav Bindra, Devendra Jhajharia, Sharath Kamal and PR Sreejesh, Sanyal remarked that their presence bridges the gap between past glory and future potential.In a poignant moment of his address, Sanyal paid special tribute to the para-athletes present. “To our para-athletes, you are champions of the human spirit. Your courage and resilience teach us what true strength really means,” he said, reiterating TOI’s commitment to sports as a source of national inspiration rather than mere entertainment.Concluding his address with a call to light the fire in the next generation, Sanyal kicked off the festivities: “Let’s make this evening unforgettable. Let’s cheer for our champions. Let’s celebrate their sweat, their glory and their incredible journey! Thank you, and let’s have a wonderful evening! Jai Hind!”

New Delhi: According to a communication from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, the Center has increased gas allocation to states and Union Territories to 50 per cent of the pre-crisis level, with an additional 20 per cent supply to be implemented from March 23.In a letter to Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories, Petroleum Secretary Dr Neeraj Mittal said the increased allocation is aimed at supporting key sectors, especially those related to food supply and public welfare.“I would like to now inform you that from 23.3.26 till further notification, an additional 20% is being allocated to the State, which will take the total allocation to 50% of the pre-crisis level. The additional allocation of 20% will be given on priority to the following sectors: Restaurants, Dhabas, Hotels, Industrial Canteens, Food Processing/Dairies, Food subsidized canteens/outlets run by State Governments or local bodies, Community Kitchens, 5 FTL for KG migrant labourers, with measures to ensure no deviation…,” read the letter.The ministry said the priority sectors for additional allocation include restaurants, dhabas, hotels, industrial canteens, food processing and dairy units, subsidized canteens run by state governments or local bodies, community kitchens and 5 kg free trade LPG for migrant labourers.“Additional allocation of 20% will be given to the following sectors on priority basis – restaurants, dhabas, hotels, industrial canteens, food processing/dairies, subsidized canteens/outlets run by state governments or local shops for food, community kitchens, 5 kg FTL for migrant laborers along with measures to ensure no diversion.”It also said that all commercial and industrial LPG consumers will have to register with oil marketing companies before being eligible for allocation under the 50 per cent supply.“All commercial/industrial LPG consumers will have to register with the OMC before being eligible to be allotted any commercial LPG out of the overall 50% allocation. The OMC will register such customers and maintain a record of the area in which they serve the end use of LPG and the annual weight requirement of LPG of that customer in the respective database.”Further, such consumers will have to apply for piped natural gas connection with the city gas distribution unit in their respective areas and take steps to be ready for PNG supply to qualify for LPG allocation.“All commercial/industrial LPG consumers will have to apply for PNG with the applicable City Gas Distribution Unit in their city and take all actions that will take them to a state of readiness to receive PNG, before they can be eligible to be allotted any commercial LPG out of the overall 50% allocation.”India’s weekly LPG imports fell to 265,000 tonnes in the week of March 19, from 322,000 tonnes in the week of March 5. Arrivals in West Asia fell to just 89,000 tonnes in the week ended March 19, the lowest share since January 2026, according to S&P Commodities at Sea (CAS).However, the report said alternative regional supplies rose to 176,000 tonnes in the week to March 19, mainly from the US, up from zero the previous week, when West Asia accounted for 100% of imports.Indian oil marketing companies are likely to import 2.2 million tonnes of LPG from the US in 2026, the report said. CAS data said US LPG loading to India is increasing, with volumes now exceeding those from traditional Gulf suppliers. India imports about 60% of its LPG requirement and about 90% of it comes from West Asia.

Actor Bharat candidly discussed the fickle nature of the film industry at the ‘Kalidas 2’ audio launch, and stressed that the market value of an actor is determined by the performance of his last film. He highlighted the important role of a good director in an actor’s career and highlighted ‘Kalidas’ as his important comeback film.

Actor Bharat’s recent speech at the audio launch of ‘Kalidas 2’ hit with its raw honesty. The actor took center stage to discuss the “stones and roses” of his career, which spans from his meteoric rise in the early 2000s to his recent resurgence. Bharat does not shy away from the brutal reality of the box office, noting that while hit films bring celebration, a flop can lead the industry to claim that an actor has “no market.”

On Directors in Bharat Udyog

Talking about his experiences, Bharat said that he has worked with many new directors throughout his career. According to Cinema Vikatan, he stressed how important it is for an actor to find the right filmmaker. He said, “I have worked with many new directors in my career. What I’ve learned is that if you find a good director, your journey will open up. If you don’t have that, that’s where the problem starts.” He explained the importance of direction in an actor’s career.

Description of success and failure by Bharat.

Bharat further discussed the real situation regarding the success or failure of films. He told that every actor goes through ups and downs. He said, “Every hero in cinema has to face both success and failure. After three hits, people celebrate you. But if you suddenly flop, they say you have no market.” He further said, “Business in this industry depends on your last film.” His statement clearly showed how quickly perceptions can change in the film industry.

Bharat calls ‘Kalidas’ his comeback film

Speaking about ‘Kalidas’, Bharat told how the film played an important role in his career. He said, “At such a time, Kalidas came to me and this became my comeback film. I never left cinema. I kept pushing to be here.” He also opened up about audio launch events, saying, “I see a lot of big audio launches on reels. I do films too, but my films never get such big audio launches. I’m not saying this for sympathy; it’s the truth.His honest words gave a clear picture of his journey and mindset.

About ‘Kalidas 2’

Directed by Sri Senthil, ‘Kalidas 2’ stars Bharath in the lead role Bhavani ShreeSangeeta, Aparathi, and Prakash Raj In leading roles. The crime thriller has a score by Sam CS, complemented by a strong technical team.

Andhra Pradesh The recent judgment of the High Court that DNA testing of children should not be ordered in a mechanical manner in matrimonial disputes highlights the importance of protecting the rights of children. The High Court said that children should not be used as pawns to settle disputes between parents and a man cannot undergo DNA test of his children to prove his wife’s infidelity. Background of the case The case arose out of a long pending matrimonial dispute between a husband and wife from Vizianagaram district. The husband filed HMOP No. 45 of 2019 before the Senior Civil Judge, Vizianagaram, seeking divorce on the grounds of desertion under Section 13(1)(ib) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955. During the pendency of the divorce petition, the husband moved IA No. 553 of 2022 under Section 45 of the Indian Evidence Act, seeking DNA testing of his two children. He claimed that testing was necessary to establish that he was not the biological father, alleging that the children were born out of his wife’s adulterous relationship. The trial court rejected the DNA testing application and reached a settlement on July 10, 2024, citing potential social stigma. Supreme Court Legislation discouraging the mechanical use of DNA tests involving children. Challenging this denial, the husband approached the Andhra Pradesh High Court through a civil revision petition under Article 227 of the Constitution. Appellant’s arguments The husband argued that the trial court erred in rejecting his application for DNA testing. His lawyer Krishna S argued that the DNA test would help reveal the truth about the paternity of the children. Denying such scientific evidence would deprive the petitioner of an important opportunity to prove its allegations.Krishna argued that the petitioner’s right to fair trial and justice cannot be denied by considering the right to privacy of his wife and children. He argued that his right to privacy is not absolute. According to him, ordering the DNA test would not cause any prejudice to his wife or children as it would only reveal the truth in the marital dispute where infidelity was alleged. defendant’s answer The wife opposed the petition, arguing that the divorce petition was only on the grounds of desertion, but not on the grounds of adultery. Their lawyer A Sai Naveen said that conducting DNA tests on children would be a violation of their privacy and dignity. He said that when children are not parties to the dispute between parents, DNA test of children should not be ordered. Naveen relied on recent Supreme Court judgments in which the top court had warned courts below against allowing DNA tests, which could have harmful social and psychological consequences for children, including the risk of their validity being questioned.High Court analysis Considering the arguments of both the parties, the High Court judge, Justice Taralada Rajasekhar Rao, upheld the arguments of the respondent (wife) and held that the divorce petition was filed on the grounds of desertion, but not on the grounds of adultery. Additionally, the children were not parties to the suit, nor were they claiming maintenance or any legal benefits. The High Court also cited several Supreme Court decisions including Gautam Kundu Vs. State of West Bengal, Aparna Ajinkya Firodia vs. Ajinkya Arun Firodia, and R. In Rajendran v. Qamar Nisha the court reiterated that there is a strong presumption of legitimacy under Section 112 of the Evidence Act for children born during a valid marriage. Justice Rao said DNA testing should not be ordered routinely or only to support allegations of infidelity. He said the child’s interests, identity, privacy and social standing should be given priority over parental disputes.The High Court also rejected the argument that refusal to undergo DNA testing violates the husband’s right to a fair trial, holding that a party’s right to a fair trial cannot override the fundamental rights and best interests of a third party, especially a child.legal significance This decision of the AP High Court reinforces the legal principles that DNA testing of children is an exception, not the rule, especially in matrimonial disputes. It also emphasizes that courts should adopt a child-centric approach, not a parent-centric one. Allegations of incest must be proven through independent evidence, not by subjecting children to intrusive scientific tests.It also reiterates the continued relevance of section 112 of the Evidence Act in protecting the legitimacy of children. last order The Andhra Pradesh High Court dismissed the civil revision petition, upholding the trial court’s refusal to order DNA testing. It also imposed a fine of Rs 3000 on the petitioner, payable to the District Legal Services Authority within three weeks and directed recovery of the amount including taking coercive steps if necessary.Highlights from the decision

Why does it matter?This judgment is significant as it strengthens judicial safeguards around the rights of children in family court litigation. As DNA testing becomes more accessible, there is an increasing need for courts to create strict limits on its use.The judgment sends a clear message that the pursuit of truth in matrimonial disputes cannot be done at the expense of the dignity, legitimacy and social welfare of the child, and that parental disputes must be resolved without causing irreversible harm to children.

Judgment referred to:

Read the full decision:

Silambarasan TR has praised the newly released Tamil film ‘Youth’ directed by and starring newcomer Ken Karunas. He praised Karuna’s dual performance and directorial talent, describing the upcoming film as fresh, vibrant and relatable to the current generation. Silambarasan also praised GV Prakash’s music and encouraged audiences to experience the film in theatres.

Silambarasan TR has backed another newcomer in Tamil cinema with the new film ‘Youth’ which was recently released on 19th March. This coming of age film directed and starring newcomer Ken Karunas has created a lot of excitement and is spreading like wildfire among the youth. The film ‘Youth’ also marks the debut of newcomer Ken Karunas as the hero and it has been trending and loved by everyone including the general audience and the film fraternity. It is scheduled to be released on March 26, 2026 in Telugu language.

Silambarasan praises ‘youth’ for connecting with today’s generation

Actor Silambarasan, who is busy with Vetri Maaran’s ‘Arasan’, took out time to watch the film and shared his views on the film via social media. He said that the film is “new age, energetic and full of emotions” and added, “A film that is very relatable to the current generation.” From this it can be inferred that the film seems close to the current scenario. STR’s support will definitely give the film significant recognition among the people.

Silambarasan praises Ken Karunas’ performance and direction in ‘Youth’

While appreciating Ken Karunas’s dual responsibilities, Silambarasan praised the young filmmaker-actor. He wrote, “Brilliant performance by Ken, you really nailed Thambi. To act and direct at such a young age and make it so engaging is really impressive.” She also praised the supporting cast and said, “Loved your moments with Sooraj sir and Devdarshini ma’am. Anishma, Meenakshi and Priyanshi Yadav really brought life to the film. His full praise shows how much he appreciated the team’s hard work and their performance.

STR praises GV Prakash‘s music and urges audiences to watch ‘Youth’ in theaters

Silambarasan emphasized the film’s music, saying that “the music enhanced all the scenes beautifully.” He praised composer GV Prakash for his collaboration in the film’s music. In the end, STR encouraged everyone to watch the film in theaters and congratulated the team. It is noteworthy that Ken Karunas plays the role of Silambarasan’s fan in ‘Youth’.