- Iran’s IRGC Navy turned back the Pakistan-bound vessel SELEN in the
Strait of Hormuz for lacking permission and violating protocols, asserting maritime sovereignty and mandatory coordination for transit. - Government has mandated a shift to
piped natural gas in covered areas, halting LPG supply to such households, aiming to diversify fuel use and reduce vulnerability amid global oil disruptions. - Gujarat Assembly passed
Uniform Civil Code Bill , becoming the second state after Uttarakhand to adopt common personal laws; Union home minister Amit Shah hailed it as a historic step toward legal equality. - Indian refiners ramped up Russian crude purchases to 60 million barrels amid Middle East disruptions, leveraging US waivers and securing supplies at premiums over Brent to offset Hormuz-linked constraints.
- Rinku Singh was named KKR vice-captain for IPL 2026 and appointed Uttar Pradesh regional sports officer, marking a dual milestone as he takes on leadership and administrative roles.
Here are the top 5 updates from the day:
Iran turns back Pakistan-bound ship trying to pass through Strait of Hormuz
Iran intercepted and turned back the Pakistan-bound container ship SELEN in the Strait of Hormuz, citing non-compliance with legal protocols and lack of prior approval. IRGC Navy chief Alireza Tangsiri said all vessels must coordinate with Iran’s maritime authorities, framing the move as enforcement of national sovereignty over the strategic waterway.Amid rising Gulf tensions, Iran has tightened control over the Strait of Hormuz—through which about 20% of global oil flows—while allowing passage to “non-hostile” ships that follow its security rules and coordinate with authorities.Read the full story
Centre orders transition to gas pipeline wherever available
The Centre has introduced a policy requiring households in areas with piped natural gas (PNG) access to switch from LPG, halting cylinder supply there. Issued under the 2026 gas distribution order, the move aims to expand gas networks, reduce reliance on a single fuel source, and cushion against global oil supply disruptions linked to the Middle East crisis.The order aims to boost energy security by fast-tracking pipeline infrastructure, simplifying approvals, and promoting a shift from LPG to PNG. It also seeks to optimise LPG distribution by redirecting supplies to areas without pipeline access.Read the full story
After Uttarakhand, Gujarat passes Uniform Civil Code Bill
Gujarat has passed the Uniform Civil Code Bill, 2026, introducing a common legal framework for marriage, divorce, inheritance and adoption across communities. The state becomes the second after Uttarakhand to implement UCC. Union home minister Amit Shah welcomed the move, calling it a historic step toward ensuring equality and reaffirming the BJP’s long-standing commitment.Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel said the law was shaped through public consultations and a panel led by retired Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai. He added that the UCC aims to create a common legal framework without discrimination, strengthening social harmony and inclusive development.Read the full story
60 million barrels of Russian crude booked by Indian refiners amid global supply strain
Indian refiners have secured about 60 million barrels of Russian crude for the coming month, matching recent levels but exceeding February purchases. The buying surge follows Middle East supply disruptions and US waivers allowing imports of pre-shipped Russian oil. Cargoes were reportedly booked at $5–$15 per barrel above Brent, helping India manage constraints caused by the Strait of Hormuz situation.After a US waiver, India has resumed buying Russian oil cargoes loaded before March 5. India had become a key buyer of discounted Russian crude after 2022, following the Russia-Ukraine conflict, but later reduced purchases under US pressure, turning to suppliers like Saudi Arabia and Iraq.Read the full story
Rinku Singh appointed as Uttar Pradesh regional sports officer
Rinku Singh received a double boost as he was named Kolkata Knight Riders’ vice-captain for IPL 2026 and appointed Uttar Pradesh’s regional sports officer by the state government. UP CM Yogi Adityanath handed him the role, where he will promote sports, manage facilities, and develop talent. The state will also employ six other international medallists.Singh’s salary is expected to be between Rs 70,000 and Rs 80,000Read the full story
