The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has superseded the board of directors of New India Co-operative Bank for 12 months and appointed Shreekant, a former SBI Chief General Manager, as an administrator. This follows concerns regarding the bank's liquidity. Restrictions have been placed, including limitations on deposit withdrawals, with eligible depositors entitled to a deposit insurance claim of up to Rs 5 lakh from DICGC. Customers have expressed frustration due to lack of communication while trying to access their funds and services. The RBI’s actions came after supervisory issues with the bank's operations.  

Elon Musk has sharply criticized the F-35 fighter jet program, labeling it "the worst military value for money in history" due to its high operating costs and technical issues. This critique resurfaces amid President Donald Trump's offer to supply F-35 jets to India. Musk argues that the F-35's design is flawed, being "an expensive and complex jack of all trades, master of none." He advocates for unmanned aerial systems (UAS) as the future of air combat, suggesting that manned fighter jets are becoming obsolete. Musk's comments have reignited debates on the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the F-35 program, especially concerning its potential acquisition by India.

A Russian drone strike hit the radiation shield at Chernobyl's damaged reactor, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claimed. The attack caused a fire, later extinguished, but radiation levels remain stable, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Russia denied the strike. Zelensky called for global pressure on Moscow, saying Putin is "not preparing for negotiations." The IAEA remains on high alert. Experts say the thick concrete sarcophagus prevents major radiation leaks. The attack follows rising military activity near Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. Zelensky is set to discuss the war with U.S. officials in Munich.

Rajiv Kumar, the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India, is set to resign, with a new CEC to be appointed soon, according to sources. This development follows the unexpected resignation of Election Commissioner Arun Goel in March 2024, leaving the Election Commission with a single member. The Supreme Court has previously cautioned against such a scenario, emphasizing the importance of a multi-member commission to ensure balanced decision-making.  

NASA astronaut Sunita Williams is set to return to Earth on March 19 after an extended mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Williams, along with fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore, has been in space for over eight months. The Crew-10 mission will launch on March 12, conducting a week-long handover, after which Williams and Wilmore will board the Dragon spacecraft to return. Their extended stay was influenced by a demand from President Donald Trump for their immediate return, ensuring staffing levels aboard the ISS are maintained.

Viacom18 and Star India have unveiled subscription plans for their newly launched streaming service, JioStar, ahead of IPL 2025. Unlike previous seasons, free streaming of IPL matches will not be available. Subscribers must choose from various paid plans to access live IPL content. These plans cater to diverse viewing preferences and budgets, ensuring fans can enjoy the IPL experience through the platform. The move marks a significant shift from the free streaming model of past seasons, reflecting the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting and streaming services.

The imposition of President's rule in Manipur has intensified ethnic tensions. Meitei groups oppose the move, feeling it bypasses their democratic rights to select a new CM, while tribal Kuki-Zo communities see it as a hopeful step towards ending violence. The Kuki-Zo leaders, frustrated by the previous CM’s biased handling of ethnic conflicts, believe the President's rule could pave the way for peace. Meanwhile, political leaders, including BJP and Congress, reflect divergent views, with Congress highlighting the prolonged crisis and fatalities.

PM Modi's recent US visit led to a series of key agreements with President Trump. Key takeaways include: expanding the US-India defence partnership, tackling terrorism with the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, setting a $500 billion bilateral trade target by 2030, and launching the TRUST initiative for tech collaboration. The two leaders also discussed energy security, Indo-Pacific strategy, and fostering people-to-people ties. The meeting signaled a strengthened partnership in defence, trade, technology, and global cooperation. Modi emphasized India's vision of a "Viksit Bharat" and a "MEGA" US-India partnership for prosperity.

On Shab-e-Baraat, a significant night of Islamic observance, authorities in Srinagar closed the historic Jamia Masjid, preventing congregational prayers. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah criticized this action, stating it reflects a lack of confidence. The Anjuman Auqaf Jamia Masjid, the mosque's managing body, confirmed the closure, citing security concerns. This decision has sparked widespread outrage among the public and political leaders, highlighting ongoing tensions over religious freedoms in the region.

During Prime Minister Modi's visit to the US, he firmly responded to questions about the Adani case, emphasizing that leaders of nations do not discuss individual issues like business disputes. The inquiry followed allegations by the US Department of Justice against Adani Group executives, including Gautam Adani, for involvement in a $250 million bribery scheme. Modi's response highlights India's democratic values and the importance of maintaining diplomatic relations. Despite the accusations, Adani Group has denied any wrongdoing.