In a daring rescue operation in Balochistan, Pakistani security forces successfully stormed the hijacked Jaffar Express, neutralizing all 33 Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) militants and rescuing hundreds of passengers. The crisis began when militants blew up the railway track and fired rockets at the train, which was carrying 440 passengers from Quetta to Peshawar. The assailants, some wearing suicide vests, demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners and threatened to execute hostages. The ensuing standoff resulted in the tragic loss of 21 passengers and four security personnel. The BLA, seeking greater autonomy and resource control in the region, has intensified attacks recently, highlighting ongoing unrest in Balochistan.

President Donald Trump's 25% tariffs on all U.S. steel and aluminum imports took effect on March 12, 2025, aiming to protect domestic industries. In response, the European Union plans to impose tariffs on up to €26 billion of U.S. exports, while Canada announced C$29.8 billion in retaliatory tariffs, targeting metals, computers, and sports equipment. Canada's Finance Minister, Dominic LeBlanc, stated, "We will not stand idly by while our iconic steel and aluminum industries are being unfairly targeted." The escalating trade tensions have unsettled markets, with investors fearing a potential recession. Trump has threatened further tariffs if the EU proceeds with its countermeasures, stating, "Whatever they charge us, we're charging them."

India's retail inflation declined to 3.61% in February 2025, marking a seven-month low and falling below the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) medium-term target of 4%. This decrease is primarily attributed to a significant drop in vegetable prices, leading to a food inflation rate of 3.75%, the lowest since May 2023. The easing inflation provides the RBI with the opportunity to implement further rate cuts to stimulate economic growth. Economists anticipate a 25 basis points reduction in the repo rate during the April policy meeting, with potential for additional cuts in subsequent months. The RBI had previously reduced the key interest rate by 25 basis points to 6.25% in February, the first cut in nearly five years.

The Pakistan Army ended the Jaffar Express hostage crisis, freeing 346 passengers after an intense operation against Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) militants. The train, carrying 400 passengers from Quetta to Peshawar, was derailed and hijacked near Gudalar using explosives. The military confirmed the deaths of 33 militants, 21 passengers, and 4 paramilitary soldiers. Some attackers wore suicide vests, complicating the rescue. The army transported empty coffins to the site in preparation. "All terrorists have been eliminated, and hostages rescued," said army spokesperson Lt. Gen. Ahmad Sharif. The BLA has claimed responsibility for the attack.

A Carnegie-YouGov survey reveals that while 47% of Indian Americans believe India is on the right track, many fear strained US-India ties under Donald Trump. Most Democrats prefer Biden or Kamala Harris over Trump, with 66% of Indian-American Republicans backing him. The alleged Indian assassination plot in the US remains largely unnoticed, with only half aware of it. Despite political divides, Indian Americans remain culturally connected to India. The survey highlights shifting attitudes, with Democratic support declining from 56% in 2020 to 47% in 2024, signaling evolving political preferences within the community.

Hyderabad police arrested journalists Pogadadanda Revathi and Thanvi Yadav for allegedly posting abusive content against CM Revanth Reddy. A third person, linked to the X account ‘NippuKodi,’ was also detained. The Congress’ state social media unit filed the complaint, leading to charges of organised crime, spreading rumours, and criminal conspiracy. The BRS condemned the arrests, calling them “Emergency-style rule.” BRS leader KT Rama Rao said the Congress was “intolerant of criticism.” BJP's Shehzad Poonawalla also slammed the arrests, calling them an attack on press freedom. Press bodies have demanded their immediate release.

Pakistan's military killed all 33 Baloch insurgents who hijacked a train in Balochistan, ending a day-long standoff. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) had taken 212 passengers hostage, demanding prisoner releases. The military launched an aerial and ground assault, rescuing over 300 passengers. However, 21 civilians and 4 paramilitary soldiers were killed. Officials said insurgents used women and children as human shields. This marks the first time Baloch militants have attacked a passenger train. The attack follows intensified calls for Baloch independence from Pakistan and China’s influence. Security remains heightened in the volatile region.

Former India all-rounder Syed Abid Ali passed away at 83. He played 29 Tests and 5 ODIs, debuting in 1967. A brilliant fielder, he took 47 Test wickets and scored 1,018 runs. Notably, he opened both batting and bowling in 7 Tests. Sunil Gavaskar called him a "lion-hearted cricketer" who played selflessly. Abid also featured in the inaugural ODI World Cup, scoring 70 in his last game. He took 397 first-class wickets and amassed 8,732 runs. Known for his impeccable manners and sharp cricketing mind, he leaves behind a lasting legacy in Indian cricket.

Pakistan’s army freed over 300 hostages from a passenger train hijacked by Baloch militants in Balochistan. The military said 33 militants were killed in the operation. Before the rescue, the militants killed 21 civilians and four soldiers. The attackers, linked to the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), had demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners. They blew up tracks and fired at the train near a mountain tunnel. Some passengers escaped and walked for hours to safety. The hijacking lasted over 30 hours. The military is still searching the area and vowed to bring all attackers to justice.

Canada has announced new 25% tariffs on US steel, aluminium, and consumer goods worth C$30 billion. This comes after Donald Trump doubled tariffs on Canadian imports. Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc said Canada will not stay silent while its industries are unfairly targeted. Foreign Minister Melanie Joly called the US tariffs “unjustified” and said she would raise the issue at a G7 meeting. Trump, upset over Ontario’s electricity surcharge, also threatened to increase car import tariffs, which could harm Canada’s auto industry. The new Canadian tariffs will take effect from Thursday, matching the US measures “dollar for dollar.”