PM Modi speaks to Iran President; stresses on freedom of navigation, ensuring shipping lanes open
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (March 21, 2026) conveyed Id and Nowruz greetings to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, expressing hope that this festive season brings peace, stability and prosperity to West Asia. In his telephonic conversation with the Iranian leader, Prime Minister Modi condemned the attacks on critical infrastructure in the region, which threaten regional stability and disrupt global supply chains, and reiterated the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring that shipping lanes remain open and secure.
Govt. allows additional 20% allocation of commercial LPG to States and UTs, raising total allocation to 50%
Amid the escalating West Asia situation, the government on Saturday (March 21, 2026) said it has allowed for a further 20% allocation of commercial LPG to States and UTs. This would now take the cumulative allocation of commercial LPG to 50%, inclusive of the 10% allocation announced earlier based on spurring transition and expansion of piped natural gas. The additional 20% would be given on priority to sectors such as hotels, food processing/dairy, subsidised canteens/outlets run by State governments or local bodies, the statement said.
