Archives March 2026

Hyderabad, Mar 16th: Gemini TV unveiled its novel and mega weekend comedy entertainment show ‘MASS JATHARA’ at a lively launch event held today at Nexus Mall. The show, promising waves of laughter and high-energy entertainment, will be telecast every Saturday and Sunday at 9 PM. 

Mass Jathara is a vibrant skit-based comedy competition designed to deliver wholesome weekend entertainment. The format features multiple teams of comedians performing entertaining stage skits and competing for judges’ scores, while keeping the audience thoroughly engaged and amused. 

The show brings together a strong pool of talented social media influencer comedians, YouTubers and performers in every episode, ensuring fresh, engaging and laughter-packed content for viewers. The show will be judged by Jani Master, Hero Navdeep and Bindhu Madhavi, while Deepika Pilli will host the programme. 

On this occasion Tollywood Choreographer Jani Master, said, “This show is going to be a mega hit. During the preview itself, we were left in splits of laughter. The show will relieve you from stress and make your evening truly pleasant. We will leave no stone unturned to ensure a laughter riot for the viewers. It’s going to be a pure and neat, family-oriented comedy show. If any of you wish to showcase your talent, the doors of Mass Jathara will be open for you to win the hearts of the audience and elevate your talent from the small screen to the 70 mm screen. With elimination rounds, the show is designed to encourage new and richer talent, Mass Jathara is expected to throw up several new and talented individuals in the coming days”. 

Tollywood Hero Navadeep, said, “Mass Jathara on Gemini TV is a clean comedy show that the entire family can watch together. It promises wholesome entertainment, plenty of laughter, and a truly pleasant evening on Saturdays and Sundays for viewers of all age groups”. 

Tollywood Actress Deepika Pilli, said, “Mass Jathara will be a very lively, energetic and fun-filled show. It features not only popular comedians but also talented social media influencers, making it easy for audiences to connect with them and enjoy the show together with their families. I am hosting the show, which also has a popular panel of judges. It is going to be a great platform for emerging talent”. 

Tollywood Actress Bindu Madhavi, said, “Mass Jathara on Gemini TV, airing between 9.00 pm and 10.30 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, promises to be a grand comedy extravaganza. With no drama and no unnecessary bitching, it is packed with a laughter riot and pure, unadulterated comedy. The show brings together popular comedians and talented influencers from social media who will keep viewers thoroughly engaged. Do give Mass Jathara a try, I promise, once you watch it, you will be hooked”. 

Tollywood Actress Supritha, said, “Being a mentor on Mass Jathara is going to be both exciting and challenging, given the abundance of talent on the show. I will be mentoring two teams, while Deepika will lead the other two. It will be a competition between the four teams, and as mentors, our role is to bring out the very best in them. This is my maiden attempt on television, and the show promises unlimited laughter and entertainment”. 

Mentors Deepika Rangaraju and Supritha will actively guide the contestants and help elevate their performances, while also adding to the entertainment through lively interactions and on-stage banter, making Mass Jathara, a vibrant weekend comedy destination. 

As part of the launch event, popular comedians Saddam and Pavithra, Yadamma Raju, Venky and Yodha’s team, entertained the audience with live comedy interactions and performances. Judges Jani Master, Hero Navdeep and host Deepika Pilli were also present and interacted with the audience. The event featured energetic stage performances, audience engagement activities and promotional announcements about the upcoming show.

Hyderabad, Mar 16 This March, Sheraton Hyderabad is turning up the heat, quite literally. Feast, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, will host the Karaikudi Food Festival from March 18 – 22, 2026, bringing one of India’s most distinctive and least-diluted regional cuisines to the heart of the city. At the helm is Chef Athi Lakshmi, a home chef from Madurai whose cooking is as rooted in tradition as the recipes themselves.

There are few cuisines in India as unapologetically bold and layered as the food from Karaikudi. Nestled in the Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu, Karaikudi is the cultural heart of the Chettiar community, a merchant clan historically known for their trade routes, grand mansions, and, above all, their extraordinary food. Chettinad cooking is defined by a generous hand with freshly ground spices like kalpasi (black stone flower), marathi mokku (dried flower pods), star anise, pepper, and sesame oil, many of which are native to the region and rarely found in other Indian cuisines. The result is food that is deeply aromatic, layered in heat and fragrance and unlike anything that can be replicated with shortcuts.

Chef Athi Lakshmi carries that philosophy into everything she cooks. Deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of South Tamil Nadu, she has spent years mastering the bold gravies, hand-pounded masalas, and slow-cooked preparations that define this cuisine. For her, cooking is not just about feeding people.

“For me, food has never been just nourishment. Every dish I cook is a celebration of culture, of tradition, of love. I want every plate at Hyderabad to carry that same authenticity and pride,” says Chef Athi Lakshmi.

At Feast, guests can expect a spread that does full justice to the Karaikudi table: Chettinad Chicken, Karaikudi Mutton Chops, Kola Urundai, Pepper Crab, Kuzhi Paniyaram, Vazhai Poo Vadai, and a traditional Chettinad Vegetable Curry served alongside rice and dosa. The restaurant will be dressed in a Karaikudi-themed setup with think textures, colours, and details that draw from the region’s visual identity, making the experience as atmospheric as it is delicious.

For a cuisine that has quietly influenced Indian cooking for centuries without ever quite getting the spotlight it deserves, this festival is a long overdue moment. Hyderabad, a city that takes its food seriously, is perhaps the perfect stage for it.

Gudi Padwa is celebrated with joy, tradition, and the promise of new beginnings. From raising the traditional Gudi outside homes to preparing festive delicacies and gathering with loved ones, the festival carries a sense of renewal that brings families and communities together. While each household celebrates it in their own way, the spirit of Gudi Padwa often lies in the small rituals that make the day special, decorating homes, sharing festive meals, and taking a moment to welcome the year ahead with hope and gratitude.

This Gudi Padwa, Sony SAB artists Akshaya Hindalkar, Shrenu Parikh, Rishi Saxena, Deeksha Joshi and Rajat Verma share how they connect with the spirit of the festival and the traditions or memories that make the occasion meaningful for them.

Akshaya Hindalkar, playing Rashi Patel in Pushpa Impossible, shares,“This Gudi Padwa feels special for me as it marks my first one after marriage. Growing up, the festival always symbolised new beginnings, positivity, and the joy of welcoming a fresh chapter. This year, that sentiment feels even more meaningful as I celebrate it with my new family and embrace new traditions, love and togetherness. There is something very heartwarming about waking up early, helping decorate the house, preparing festive dishes together and watching the Gudi being hoisted with so much faith and happiness. I am excited to create new memories and continue the traditions that make this festival so meaningful. I wish everyone a very happy and prosperous Gudi Padwa.”

Shrenu Parikh, playing Goddess Parvati in Ganesh Kartikey, shares,“Gudi Padwa has become a very special festival for me over the last few years. Being a Gujarati, I grew up celebrating our own beautiful traditions, but after getting married into a Maharashtrian family, I’ve had the chance to experience the joy and significance of Gudi Padwa up close. It’s been such a wonderful cultural exchange within the family and I truly cherish how festivals bring together different traditions in the most heartwarming way. Wishing everyone a very happy and prosperous Gudi Padwa. May this new year bring positivity, good health and many beautiful moments with your loved ones.”

Rishi Saxena, playing Sanjay Bhosale in Itti Si Khushi, shares,“Gudi Padwa has always been a festival that carries a beautiful sense of positivity and new beginnings. Over the years, having worked closely in the Marathi industry, I’ve had the chance to experience the warmth and vibrancy with which this festival is celebrated. Many of my closest friends are Maharashtrian, and through them I’ve come to truly appreciate the traditions and emotions attached to Gudi Padwa. From seeing the beautifully decorated Gudis outside homes to enjoying festive meals and the overall festive spirit in the air, it’s always wonderful to witness how families come together to welcome the Marathi New Year with so much joy and faith. Being around friends who celebrate it with such pride has made me feel connected to the festival in a very special way. Wishing everyone celebrating a very happy and prosperous Gudi Padwa.”

Deeksha Joshi, playing Deepti in Pushpa Impossible, shares,“Even though I’m a Gujarati at heart, living in Mumbai has made me appreciate and connect deeply with the beautiful traditions that the city celebrates with so much pride and enthusiasm. I love seeing the city come alive with colourful rangolis, beautifully decorated Gudis outside homes and families coming together to welcome the new year with so much joy and hope. Having spent time shooting a film in Pune as well, I’ve had the chance to experience the warmth and authenticity with which Gudi Padwa is celebrated, and it’s something that stayed with me. Wishing everyone a very happy and prosperous Gudi Padwa.”

Rajat Verma, playing Virat in Itti Si khushi, shares, “Living in Mumbai I can really feel the festival around you. I get to see the colourful Gudis outside homes, rangolis at the entrance, and there’s a certain festive buzz in the neighbourhood from the morning itself. Over time I’ve started appreciating those little details and the positivity the day brings. It feels like a fresh start in many ways. I’d like to wish everyone a very happy Gudi Padwa and hope the new year brings lots of happiness and good energy.”

Tune in to watch Itti Si Khushi, Ganesh Kartikey and Pushpa Impossible, only on Sony SAB 

FIA Statement

It has been confirmed today that, after careful evaluations, due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East region, the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix will not take place in April.

While several alternatives were considered, it was ultimately decided that no substitutions will be made in April. The FIA Formula 2, FIA Formula 3 and F1 Academy rounds will also not take place during their scheduled times.

The decision has been taken in full consultation with Formula One Group, local promoters and our Member Clubs in the region.  

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President, said: “The FIA will always place the safety and wellbeing of our community and colleagues first. After careful consideration, we have taken this decision with that responsibility firmly in mind. 

“We continue to hope for calm, safety and a swift return to stability in the region, and my thoughts remain with all those affected by these recent events. 

“Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are incredibly important to the ecosystem of our racing season, and I look forward to returning to both as soon as circumstances allow. My sincere thanks to the promoters, our partners, and our colleagues across the championship for the collaborative and constructive approach that has led to this decision.” 

Stefano Domenicali, Formula One Group President and CEO, said: “While this was a difficult decision to take, it is unfortunately the right one at this stage considering the current situation in the Middle East. 

“I want to take this opportunity to thank the FIA as well as our incredible promoters for their support and total understanding as they were looking forward to hosting us with their usual energy and passion. We cannot wait to be back with them as soon as the circumstances allow us to do so.” 

Sheikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of the Bahrain International Circuit, said: “We fully support the decision by Formula 1, and we are grateful to them and to the FIA for their support and enduring partnership. We look forward to welcoming fans from all around the world back to Bahrain when F1 returns. 

“On behalf of all of us at BIC, I take this opportunity to offer our sincere thanks to all those in the F1 community who have taken the time to send us messages of support.” 

HRH Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal, Chairman of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation (SAMF) and Chairman of the Saudi Motorsport Company (SMC), said: “The Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation respect the decision taken by Formula 1 regarding the 2026 race calendar. 

“Fans across the Kingdom were once again looking forward to the Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in Jeddah this April, but we understand the considerations behind this decision and remain in close partnership with Formula 1.”

New Delhi: The Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY), launched in 2015 to support small businesses and entrepreneurs, provides collateral-free loans of up to ₹20 lakh through banks and financial institutions, the government informed Parliament.

According to information provided by the Department of Financial Services (DFS), the scheme was launched on April 8, 2015, to extend credit support to small enterprises engaged in manufacturing, trading, services and agriculture-allied activities. Loans under the scheme are provided by Member Lending Institutions, including Scheduled Commercial Banks, Non-Banking Financial Companies and Micro Finance Institutions.

Individuals with viable business plans for small enterprises are eligible to apply for loans under the scheme. The loans are categorised into four segments based on the amount required.

Under the Shishu category, loans of up to ₹50,000 are provided, while the Kishor category covers loans above ₹50,000 and up to ₹5 lakh. The Tarun category offers loans above ₹5 lakh and up to ₹10 lakh.

To encourage successful borrowers, the government introduced a new category called Tarun Plus from October 24, 2024. Under this category, entrepreneurs who have successfully repaid their earlier loans under the Tarun category can avail collateral-free loans ranging from ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh.

The scheme has played an important role in supporting small businesses, traditional enterprises, handicrafts and agriculture-allied activities. It has also helped women entrepreneurs who often face challenges in accessing credit due to lack of collateral or credit history.

To simplify the loan application process and ensure timely disbursal, the government has also launched digital platforms such as the Jan Samarth portal, which integrates multiple credit-linked schemes and enables applicants to apply for loans through a self-service or assisted process.

This information was provided by Minister of State for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Shobha Karandlaje in a written reply in the Lok Sabha on March 12, 2026.

New Delhi: The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) has completed 364 projects under the Micro and Small Enterprises–Cluster Development Programme (MSE-CDP), aimed at enhancing productivity and competitiveness of micro and small enterprises across the country.

The MSE-CDP scheme focuses on establishing Common Facility Centres (CFCs) and creating or upgrading infrastructure facilities in existing industrial clusters. These initiatives provide financial support to improve technology access, production capacity and overall efficiency of micro and small enterprises.

Since the inception of the scheme, a total of 606 projects have been approved by the Ministry. Of these, 364 projects have been completed while 242 projects are currently under implementation.

Meanwhile, the Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI) has also made significant progress in promoting cluster-based development and strengthening traditional industries.

According to the Ministry, 513 clusters have been approved across the country since 2015-16 under the SFURTI scheme, with a total committed assistance of ₹1,332.95 crore from the Government of India. These clusters are expected to benefit around 3.03 lakh traditional artisans engaged in sectors such as handicrafts, handloom, agro-processing, coir, honey and other related activities.

Out of the total clusters approved, 378 clusters are currently functional, while 135 clusters are at different stages of implementation.

Officials said the initiative has contributed to infrastructure development, skill enhancement, value addition and improved market linkages for traditional artisans at the grassroots level.

The schemes are part of the government’s broader efforts to promote rural entrepreneurship, strengthen traditional industries and generate sustainable livelihoods for artisans across the country.

New Delhi: The Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL) under the Ministry of Education organised a one-day interactive workshop with representatives from Union Territories on March 13, 2026, at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi.

The workshop brought together senior officials from the Ministry of Education, representatives from various ministries and departments, and officials from all Union Territories to deliberate on key administrative, financial and legal issues related to school education.

Secretary, DoSEL, Sanjay Kumar inaugurated the workshop and emphasised the importance of regular engagement with Union Territories to strengthen coordination and improve the implementation of education programmes. He highlighted the need to fill vacancies in teaching and non-teaching positions in a timely manner, strengthen academic institutions such as State Councils of Educational Research and Training (SCERTs), District Institutes of Education and Training (DIETs) and State Institutes of Education (SIEs), and ensure prompt responses to parliamentary matters and financial proposals.

Economic Advisor, DoSEL, A. Srija outlined the context of the workshop and noted that the platform would enable Union Territories to exchange ideas and address operational challenges in the education sector.

During the inaugural session, Additional Secretary, DoSEL, Dheeraj Sahu spoke about the importance of strengthening institutional capacity and improving administrative efficiency across Union Territories. Ajay Gupta, Joint Secretary in the Department of Legal Affairs, addressed key issues related to handling litigation and court cases.

Prachi Pandey, Joint Secretary, DoSEL, emphasised that all schools in the Union Territories should be affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). Bhupal Nanda, Principal Chief Controller of Accounts in the Ministry of Education, highlighted matters related to financial management and accounting systems.

The technical sessions covered several important topics including the implementation of Section 12(1)(c) of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, educational indicators and data reporting for evidence-based policy formulation, onboarding of Union Territories with legislatures onto the SNA-SPARSH platform, and strengthening digital financial management systems.

The sessions also highlighted the role of the Legal Information Management and Briefing System (LIMBS) in monitoring court cases and addressed procurement-related issues on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal to improve transparency and efficiency in government procurement.

Representatives from Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Puducherry, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Lakshadweep, and Delhi made presentations on issues including court cases, vacancies in teaching and non-teaching positions including special educators, vacancies in SCERTs, DIETs and SIEs, release of funds under Samagra Shiksha, submission of annual reports and audited accounts, parliamentary matters, and challenges faced while using the GeM portal.

The workshop concluded with an interactive discussion and a summary of key takeaways. The deliberations reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministry of Education and the Union Territories to strengthen coordination, enhance institutional capacity, and ensure effective implementation of school education initiatives to improve learning outcomes across the Union Territories.

Nagpur: Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy, currently on a two-day visit to Western Coalfields Limited (WCL), virtually inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several infrastructure and development projects while reviewing the company’s operational performance.

During the programme on Friday, the Minister virtually flagged off 25 electric vehicles aimed at supporting cleaner and more efficient operations within the organisation. He also laid the foundation stones for three major projects: the Black Diamond Sports Stadium in the Kamptee area of Nagpur, the Swami Vivekananda Eco Park in Tadali in Wani area, and a First Mile Connectivity (FMC) Project at the Sasti Open Cast Mine in the Ballarpur area.

The projects are expected to strengthen regional infrastructure, promote environmental sustainability, and modernise coal mining operations.

Following the inauguration, the Union Minister conducted a detailed review meeting on WCL’s performance, focusing on coal production, safety measures, sustainable development initiatives, environmental protection, and upcoming projects.

Praising the work culture and performance of the organisation, Reddy commended Team WCL for its achievements and expressed confidence that the company would deliver even stronger results in the current financial year. He also discussed WCL’s role in the evolving landscape of the coal industry.

During the meeting, WCL Chairman-cum-Managing Director Harish Duhan presented a detailed overview of the company’s achievements during the financial year 2025–26.

Senior officials present at the meeting included Sanoj Kumar Jha, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Coal, B. Sairam, Chairman of Coal India Limited, along with other senior officers from the Ministry of Coal, Coal India Limited, and WCL.

As part of his visit, the Union Minister will also inspect the ongoing mine closure process at the Murpar underground mine on March 14, 2026. He is scheduled to hold a meeting with the District Collector and members of the Mine Closure Advisory Committee (MCAC).

Representatives from WCL’s Mine Closure team, non-governmental organisations, consultants, and members of local villages are expected to participate in the meeting to discuss issues related to mine closure and rehabilitation.