ET evening Brief
Best Stories of the Day
Revolutionary Guard takes over Iran’s government
Iran's presidency faces a political deadlock. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is reportedly controlling key state functions. President Pezeshkian's appointments and decisions are being blocked. The IRGC chief insists the Guard must manage leadership positions during wartime. Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei's inner circle is experiencing an internal crisis. This situation highlights the IRGC's growing power.
Trump strongly considering pulling US out of NATO
President Donald Trump is contemplating a US exit from NATO. This comes after NATO allies declined to join the ongoing conflict with Iran. Trump views NATO as a 'paper tiger' and questions its value. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also criticized NATO's one-way support. The alliance's mutual defense clause does not apply to this conflict.
LS passes bill to declare Amaravati as AP capital
The Lok Sabha has passed a bill to make Amaravati the sole and permanent capital of Andhra Pradesh. This legislation ends years of uncertainty regarding the state's administrative center. Amaravati will officially succeed Hyderabad as the capital from June 2, 2024. The move restores Amaravati's status, fulfilling a key promise and bringing clarity to governance and planning.
India has enough seed stock available: Govt
India assures ample seed availability for the upcoming sowing season. This comes as global supply chains face disruptions. The nation boasts a self-reliant seed system. For the Kharif Season 2026, a surplus of 19.29 lakh quintals is reported. This ensures agricultural needs are met, providing stability for farmers.
Commercial LPG cylinder prices up Rs 195.5
LPG cylinder prices have increased from April 1. Commercial cylinders in Delhi and Kolkata saw significant hikes. Aviation Turbine Fuel prices also rose in major cities. These revisions are linked to escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia and rising global crude oil prices. Fuel supplies across India remain stable, with adequate stocks available.
Apple at 50: The next bet is AI
Apple's making a big move, shifting gears to become a major player in AI and services. This isn't just a tweak; it's crucial for their future growth. While their hardware will still be around, the real focus is on blending services and smart AI to create a seamless experience across all your Apple devices.
War knocks on boardrooms: Corporates stare at a new risk
Iran War: Multinational corporations are no longer mere bystanders in conflict zones; they are now explicit targets. Iran's threats against tech and finance firms signal a dangerous shift, blurring lines between business and warfare. Companies must now prepare for direct attacks, integrating geopolitical risks into their core strategies as neutrality becomes impossible.
India’s gas shortage will make Dal compete with data
India is facing a worsening cooking gas shortage as the Iran war disrupts LPG supplies, exposing the country’s heavy reliance on imports routed through the Strait of Hormuz. The crunch is driving a sharp shift toward electric cooking, with demand surging and raising concerns about pressure on the power grid, especially during peak evening hours.
March GST collections rise to Rs 1.78 lakh crore
India's Goods and Services Tax (GST) collection surged to Rs 1.78 lakh crore in March 2026, marking an 8.2% increase from the previous month. Overall GST collections for March reached Rs 2 lakh crore, an 8.8% rise compared to the same month last year, according to official data.
Iran crude on sanctioned ship headed for India after 7-yr gap
A US-sanctioned tanker carrying Iranian crude is heading to India, potentially marking the country’s first such import since 2019 after it halted purchases due to sanctions. The vessel, loaded from Iran’s Kharg Island, is signalling arrival at Vadinar port, though the destination may still change.
KitKat has a new stolen chocolate tracker
KitKat initiated a unique campaign featuring a 'stolen chocolate tracker' following the disappearance of 12 tonnes of chocolate. This theft became an interactive event for consumers. The incident quickly drew humorous responses from various brands, including Microsoft, McAfee, Domino's Pizza UK, and DoorDash. Kerala Tourism also joined the conversation, subtly promoting tourism.
Blinkit lands at Mumbai Airport, but not for all
Blinkit has launched its services at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, with availability at Terminal 2 for domestic departures, CEO Albinder Dhindsa said.
QatarEnergy tanker hit by missile off Qatar coast
A fuel oil tanker chartered by QatarEnergy was struck by a missile early Wednesday. The vessel, Aqua 1, was attacked in northern Qatari territorial waters. Fortunately, no crew members were injured. There have been no reports of environmental damage. The reasons behind this missile strike remain unclear.
Maruti Suzuki sales rise 16.7% in March
Maruti Suzuki India saw a significant sales jump in March 2026. Total sales increased by 16.72 percent compared to the previous year. Domestic passenger vehicle sales also grew by 10.27 percent. Sales across various segments including mini cars, compact cars, and utility vehicles showed positive movement. The company's total sales for the fiscal year 2025-26 also registered an increase.
"Should we keep her?" Trump for Press Secy
President Donald Trump playfully considered dismissing his Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. He stated that he would keep her despite receiving overwhelmingly negative press coverage. Trump believes the public does not trust the media. Leavitt has a history of confronting reporters, calling one a "left wing hack." Trump previously praised Leavitt for her performance.
China, Pakistan step in with ceasefire push
China and Pakistan have jointly proposed a five-point plan to resolve the West Asia conflict. The proposal calls for an immediate halt to hostilities and the initiation of peace talks. It emphasizes safeguarding the sovereignty of Iran and Gulf states. The plan also stresses the importance of protecting civilian targets and ensuring safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
Hyundai records 8.7% annual hike in Q4 sales
Hyundai Motor India Limited reported strong quarterly sales for Q4 FY26. The company achieved its highest-ever quarterly domestic sales of 1,66,578 units. Total sales for the quarter reached 2,08,275 units, marking an 8.7% annual growth. Monthly sales in March 2026 also saw growth. Hyundai is prepared for the upcoming fiscal year.
US completes H-1B selection process
USCIS has concluded the H-1B visa selection for fiscal year 2027, filling the 85,000 annual quota. Employers have been notified of selected candidates, with petition filings opening April 1, 2026. A new weighted lottery system prioritizes higher wage offers, replacing random selection.
New income tax rules from April 1, 2026
New income tax rules: Significant income tax changes are coming from April 1, 2026, with the Income Tax Act of 2025 replacing the 1961 act. Expect revised TDS/TCS rules, updated ITR filing deadlines, and changes to buyback taxation. Key benefits include expanded HRA exemptions and increased meal card tax benefits, aiming for a simpler tax regime.
PAN rule changes from April 1: What you need to know
New PAN card application forms are now in effect under the Income-ax Act, 2025, with category-specific forms replacing the Aadhaar-only option. Mandatory PAN quoting has expanded for high-value transactions, including significant cash deposits and property deals, making compliance crucial for taxpayers.
