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Delhi Budget 2026 unveils ‘scrappage first’ EV Policy 2.0 in renewed push for electric mobility| Business News

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Delhi Budget 2026 unveils ‘scrappage first’ EV Policy 2.0 in renewed push for electric mobility| Business News


The Delhi Budget 2026 has proposed a so-called EV Policy 2.0 that prioritises vehicle scrappage over simple subsidy against a purchase, in what is seen as a renewed push for electric mobility in the national capital.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta during the budget session of the Delhi Legislative Assembly, in New Delhi on Tuesday, 24 March 2026. (PTI)
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta during the budget session of the Delhi Legislative Assembly, in New Delhi on Tuesday, 24 March 2026. (PTI)

The new framework, which has received an outlay of ₹200 crore in the budget, aims to systematically remove the state’s aging, polluting fleet with incentives strictly tied to decommissioning of older vehicles. To unlock the highest brackets of financial support, buyers must provide a “Certificate of Deposit” to prove that they have scrapped a Delhi-registered BS-IV or older petrol or diesel vehicle.

Delhi EV Policy 2.0

The incentive structure for the first year of the policy includes:

  • Private electric cars: Up to ₹100,000 for vehicles priced below ₹15 lakh (limited to the first 100,000 applicants).
  • Electric two-wheelers: A flat ₹10,000 incentive, a departure from the previous battery-capacity-linked model.
  • Electric three-wheelers: ₹25,000 for the L5M category.

The government has also proposed a ₹50,000 grant for owners who choose to convert their existing petrol/diesel cars into EVs using certified kits rather than buying new ones.

Delhi EV Policy 2.0: Tax Benefits

EVs continue to enjoy 100% waiver on road tax and registration fees till 31 March 2030, but the Delhi government has sought to plug the “luxury loophole”.

Electric cars with an ex-showroom price of up to ₹30 lakh are exempt from road tax and registration fees, but pricier models will attract standard rates.

“Our goal is to ensure that EVs are affordable for every middle-class family,” Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said during the budget session. “Charging an EV should be as easy as charging a mobile phone.”

Delhi EV Policy 2.0: Public transport

Beyond private ownership, the Delhi Budget 2026 has allocated ₹8,374 crore to the transport department, with a heavy emphasis on public electrification.

  • The government plans to add 6,130 new electric buses in 2026, aiming for a total fleet of 12,000 electric buses by 2029.
  • All 400+ vehicle dealerships in Delhi have to install at least one public charging station on their premises. The aim is to reach 18,000 charging points by the end of 2026.
  • A new battery recycling framework has been introduced to manage the projected surge in lithium-ion waste. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee is the nodal agency for “second-life” battery usage.

The Road Ahead

While Delhi has among the highest EV penetration rates in the country, the transition faces hurdles. About ₹140 crore in subsidy claims from the previous policy are pending due to verification delays.

To fix this, Delhi Budget 2026 has proposed integrating all new payouts with the Direct Benefit Transfer and Aadhaar-based e-KYC systems, promising a reduction in processing time from 40 days to under a week.


Ryan Gosling bonds with Hrithik Roshan over Project Hail Mary, friendship with cute little aliens

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Ryan Gosling bonds with Hrithik Roshan over Project Hail Mary, friendship with cute little aliens


Project Hail Mary, starring Ryan Gosling in the lead, is all set to release in theatres in India this week. Ahead of the release, Ryan had a chat with Hrithik Roshan, where they talked about their shared passion for space, science, and films. Hrithik also talked about Koi Mil Gaya and Ryan asked him about Jaadu. (Also read: Project Hail Mary directors Phil Lord, Christopher Miller on why Ryan Gosling needed to be ‘scared’ in film | Exclusive)

Hrithik Roshan also told Ryan Gosling about his friend 'Jaadu' from the film, Koi Mil Gaya.
Hrithik Roshan also told Ryan Gosling about his friend ‘Jaadu’ from the film, Koi Mil Gaya.

Why Hrithik told he was ‘jealous’ of Ryan

Hrithik told Ryan, “It is incredible that on the surface it is a film about sci-fi, but underneath it all, it is really such an intimate story about this friendship. I have never really felt jealous about anybody in my life. I wasn’t aware that I was capable of such base emotions.” To this Ryan quipped, “Remake it!”

Shared universe with Jaadu and Rocky

In Project Hail Mary, Ryan plays Ryland Grace, an unlikely hero. He is an average Joe who keeps wondering why he was chosen to go to space without any experience. When he does go into space, he finds support from an extraterrestrial whom he names Rocky. The character, voiced by James Ortiz, becomes pivotal to Ryland’s mission and sanity.

During the chat, Hrithik added, “We are perhaps the only two actors who have this close friendship with these cute little aliens. You have Rocky and I have Jaadu. I don’t know if you have seen the film that I did, called Koi Mil Gaya.” Ryan asked him more about Jaadu and Hrithik told him that he is someone who would like to hug and protect.

Ryan then shared both of them should remake each other’s films. Hrithik agreed and added, “Yes! We are a part of this very exclusive, professional, space alien friendship club, and we have to do something about that!” “Shared universe, maybe a sequel!” Ryan replied.

Based on the bestselling novel by Andy Weir, Project Hail Mary also stars Sandra Hüller, James Ortiz, and Lionel Boyce. The film releases in India on March 26.


Head coach Ashish Nehra speaks about Gujarat Titans` approach ahead of season

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Head coach Ashish Nehra speaks about Gujarat Titans` approach ahead of season



Head coach Ashish Nehra speaks about Gujarat Titans` approach ahead of season

The IPL 2026 is all set to kick off from March 28. So far, the schedule of only first 20 matches has been released due to state elections.

Ahead of the season, Gujarat Titans` (GT) head coach Ashish Nehra spoke about the approach of the team. He stated that there is no need to think differently. Nehra also said that GT approach has always been to compete and win in the cash-rich league.

“I don’t think there’s a need to think differently this season. In fact, I don’t have to think, the players do. They have to think. They have to play; I’m sitting outside. From day one, our mindset has been clear, we are not here to participate, we are here to compete and win. For a new team, it’s easy to think it might take time, but that was never our approach,” said the former cricketer-turned coach.

Since joining the IPL in 2022, Gujarat Titans have been one of the most consistent teams, reaching the playoffs in three of their first four seasons and winning the title in their inaugural campaign in 2022.

On continuity within the group, Nehra said, “You’re talking about a captain who has been with the team from day one and has seen that journey. I don’t think we are looking to do anything different this season.”

Gujarat will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign by playing a clash against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on March 31 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh.

IPL 2026, Punjab Kings vs Gujarat Titans: Full Squads

Punjab Kings: Marcus Stoinis, Yuzvendra Chahal, Shashank Singh, Praveen Dubey, Lockie Ferguson, Shreyas Iyer, Ben Dwarshuis, Vishnu Vinod (WK), Xavier Bartlett, Yash Thakur, Azmatullah Omarzai, Vyshak Vijay Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Marco Jansen, Nehal Wadhera, Prabhsimran Singh (WK), Harpreet Brar, Priyansh Arya, Suryansh Shedge, Cooper Conolly, Mitchell Owen, Pyla Avinash, Harnoor Singh, Musheer Khan, Vishal Nishad.

Gujarat Titans: Ishant Sharma, Jos Buttler (WK), Jason Holder, Jayant Yadav, Kagiso Rabada, Rahul Tewatia, Luke Wood, Shahrukh Khan, Glenn Phillips, Prasidh Krishna, Rashid Khan, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Sai Kishore, Shubman Gill (C), Tom Banton (WK), Yarra Raj, Anuj Rawat, Sai Sudharsan, Manav Suthar, Kumar Kushagra (WK), Arshad Khan, Nishant Sandhu, Gurnoor Brar, Ashok Sharma.


Mouni Roy says `I look up to you` as she wishes Smriti Irani on her birthday

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Mouni Roy says `I look up to you` as she wishes Smriti Irani on her birthday



Mouni Roy says `I look up to you` as she wishes Smriti Irani on her birthday

Actress Mouni Roy penned a heartfelt birthday wish for actor and politician Smriti Irani as she turned a year older on Monday.

Expressing her gratitude to Smriti for always being by her side, Mouni admired her for her resilience and the way she has always held her ground.

The Naagin actress admitted that she has always looked up to Smriti.

Posting a warm picture of herself embracing the politician in a hug, Mouni wrote on the Stories section of her Instagram handle, “Happy Birthday Smriti Di (white heart emoji) Through every high and every storm, you`ve been there, steady, strong, and so full of heart. I say this enough, I truly look up to you and love you very much for your resilience, your fire, and the way you hold your ground with such grace. You`re rare, and I`m endlessly grateful for you. Wishing you all the love, joy, and quiet moments of happiness you so deeply deserve smritiiraniofficial. (sic)”

It must be noted that Mouni made her acting debut with the popular show Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. She was seen as Krishna Tulsi, the daughter of Smriti Irani, aka Tulsi Virani.

Created by Ekta Kapoor under her banner of Balaji Telefilms, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi ran from 2000 to 2008 on Star Plus. 

Recently, the makers released the second season of the show, which marked Smriti`s return to acting. However, Mouni was not a part of the drama.

Talking about Mouni`s professional lineup, she will soon be a part of Madhur Bhandarkar`s The Wives, co-starring Sonali Kulkarni, Regina Cassandra, Rahul Bhatt, Saurabh Sachdeva, Arjan Bajwa, and Freddy Daruvala.

Over and above this, she has also been roped in for David Dhawan`s forthcoming romantic comedy, Hai Jawaani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, which will have Varun Dhawan as the lead, alongside Mrunal Thakur, Pooja Hegde, Kubbra Sait, Maniesh Paul, Rohit Saraf, Rajeev Khandelwal, Nitish Nirmal, and Sreeleela in significant roles, along with others.

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever


Kal Somani-led consortium buys Rajasthan Royals for $1.63 billion | Cricket News

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Kal Somani-led consortium buys Rajasthan Royals for .63 billion | Cricket News


Kal Somani-led consortium buys Rajasthan Royals for $1.63 billion

A consortium led by US-based entrepreneur Kal Somani has won the bid to own the Rajasthan Royals franchise. Somani has led enterprises in ed-tech, data privacy, AI governance and sports tech. Somani is the founder of global giants such as IntraEdge, Truyo, Truyo.AI and Academian.Somani is being backed by American business Rob Walton, of the Walmart family, and the Hamp family that also has majority stakes in NFL‘s Detroit Lions. Sheila Ford Hamp also roots in the Ford family that holds a significant stake in Ford Motor Company. The consortium is learned to have put in a bid of $1.63 billion (£1.2 billion).“We see huge potential with this investment, and we are excited for the future of the IPL”, Somani had said in 2021 when he invested in Rajasthan Royals.Somani’s association with sports lies as the co-owner of Motor City Golf Club and was an early investor in TMRW Sports and TGL Golf League. The current owners of the Royals were in talks for the last six months for a 100% sale of the team.

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West Asia war: Iran launches show Night Light to counter Israeli narrative

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West Asia war: Iran launches show Night Light to counter Israeli narrative



West Asia war: Iran launches show Night Light to counter Israeli narrative

Iran has released a new government-backed drama titled Night Light, positioning it as a counterpoint to the Israeli series Tehran, during the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The show, which airs on Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting, has caused quite a stir for flipping the espionage narrative to reflect Iran`s perspective.

The series was released on Nowruz, the Persian New Year, marking the first day of spring and the renewal of nature. However, it also arrived in the midst of a period of increased scrutiny around security and alleged spy activity in Iran. The timing of the launch has amplified interest, as it is being seen as a strategic programming move alongside an entertainment release.

About Night Light

As per Ynet News, Night Light follows a female foreign operative, Ramos, who is sent on a covert mission inside Iran by Israel. However, unlike Tehran, which follows the infiltrator’s journey, the new series shifts the focus on Iranian intelligence forces working to identify and neutralise threats to defend their country.

The approach spotlights counter-espionage efforts. By showing the perspective of those defending national security, rather than those attempting to breach it, reframes the narrative.

The show has been making headlines due to comparisons to Tehran, which have been central to its discussion. While both dramas revolve around espionage in Iran, Night Light shifts the narrative lens to challenge the mainstream perspective. It emphasises counter-intelligence operations and internal security, offering a contrasting viewpoint to the Israeli series. Reports suggest it incorporates strong ideological elements and aligns with the government`s current political messaging. 

Iranian report claims energy infrastructure damage in strikes

A semiofficial Iranian news agency close to Iran`s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard reported early Tuesday that two energy sites had been struck by airstrikes.

The report by the Fars news agency appeared timed to call into question comments by US President Donald Trump, who extended his deadline for Tehran to halt its attacks that have effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf. Trump had threatened to strike Iranian power plants.

Fars claimed an attack struck natural gas infrastructure in Isfahan, while another “targeted” a gas pipeline for the Khorramshahr power plant.

Neither Israel nor the US had claimed strikes in the area on Monday, though both countries don`t always acknowledge their attacks. It also wasn`t immediately clear if those sites had been specifically targeted or damaged in strikes hitting other sites in the area.

The premiere of Night Light highlights how television continues to play a role in shaping narratives, particularly amid ongoing geopolitical developments. 


Australia and EU agree sweeping trade deal in face of global uncertainty

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Australia and EU agree sweeping trade deal in face of global uncertainty



Australia and the EU sign sweeping trade and security deals after years of negotiations.


Ginny Weds Sunny 2 makers drop song Aye Khudaa- a heartbreak anthem

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Ginny Weds Sunny 2 makers drop song Aye Khudaa- a heartbreak anthem



Ginny Weds Sunny 2 makers drop song Aye Khudaa- a heartbreak anthem

Shifting gears from the high-octane energy of Chhaap Tilak, the makers of Ginny Weds Sunny 2 have released the film’s most soulful track yet, Aye Khudaa. While the first song got the nation dancing, this new release dives into the emotional core of the film, capturing a poignant moment of heartbreak and longing.

About Aye Khudaa

The music video offers an intimate look into Sunny’s headspace, weaving together flashbacks that reflect the couple’s shared journey and lingering memories. A deeply soulful track, it resonates with anyone who has experienced heartbreak. With heartfelt lyrics and a melody that truly hits home, the song is set to become a go-to anthem for those navigating the quiet ache of love and loss.

Aye Khudaa is composed and written by Usman Khan, whose lyrics capture the silent void of separation. The song features a powerhouse vocal performance by Altamash Faridi, whose voice brings remarkable depth to the melody, while producer Amir Khan crafts a soundscape that balances vulnerability with cinematic storytelling.

Avinash and Medha on the song

Talking about the song, Avinash Tiwary said, “Music is the heartbeat of any love story, especially when that story takes a difficult turn. ‘Aye Khudaa’ captures the exact emotional moment Sunny experiences for Ginny. Filming the song was intense, and I think audiences will truly connect with the honesty of this track.”

Medha Shankr added, “While our first song was a celebration, Aye Khudaa reveals the more vulnerable, human side of our characters. It’s a beautiful, heavy track that stays with you long after it ends. Even though it’s told through Sunny’s eyes, it reflects the deep history and pain both Ginny and Sunny carry.”

Singer Altamash Faridi shared, “When I first heard Usman Khan’s composition, I knew the vocals had to feel raw and stripped to the soul. ‘Aye Khudaa isn’t just about sadness,  it’s about searching for answers when you suddenly feel alone. I’ve poured my heart into this rendition, and I hope it resonates with everyone who hears it.”

Composer and lyricist Usman Khan said, “Writing and composing ‘Aye Khudaa’ was about finding words for the silence that follows a breakup. I wanted the lyrics to be simple yet impactful. Seeing how the song underscores Sunny’s emotional journey in the film is very special, and I’m glad we could bring this vision to life.”

Ginny Weds Sunny 2, presented by Zee Studios and Soundrya Production, is produced by Vinod Bachchan and Umesh Kumar Bansal. Written and directed by Prasshant Jha, the film stars Avinash Tiwary and Medha Shankr and is set to hit theatres on April 24, 2026.

Aye Khudaa is out now on Sony Music India and available across streaming platforms.


East Bengal get a record derby win over Mohammedan Sporting

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East Bengal get a record derby win over Mohammedan Sporting



East Bengal get a record derby win over Mohammedan Sporting

East Bengal FC slammed a barrage of goals to script a historic 7-0 win over Mohammedan Sporting Club in the Kolkata derby in the Indian Super League 2025-26 here on Monday. This massive win marks the largest victory margin in history between the two sides and is also the joint-highest in ISL history, equalling FC Goa`s 7-0 win over Mumbai City FC in 2015.

Following this emphatic result, the Red and Gold Brigade climbed to fourth in the standings with 11 points from six matches, while Mohammedan Sporting Club remained near the bottom, yet to open their account after five matches. Anwar Ali, who was adjudged Player of the Match, scored a brace. Apart from him — with goals in the 6th and 79th minutes — the other scorers were Youssef Ezzejjari (14th, 54th –both penalties), Saul Crespo (38th, penalty), PV Vishnu (75`th) and Nandha Kumar (90th+6).

East Bengal were off to a blazing start, asserting dominance in the opening minutes. Their early pressure paid off in the sixth minute when centre-back Anwar unleashed a long-range left-footed strike from the left flank. Mohammedan keeper Padam Chettri missed the ball and it found the bottom-right corner, giving the hosts a 1-0 lead. The advantage was doubled in the 14th minute after a foul inside the box by left back Sajjad Hussain on Miguel Figueira resulted in a penalty. Youssef Ezzejjari stepped up and calmly converted from the spot to make it 2-0. The hosts continued to press forward, with Edmund Lalrindika testing Padam midway through the half. The game tilted further in East Bengal`s favour when Mohammedan right back Joseph Lalmuanawma was sent off for a second yellow card after conceding a second penalty. Captain Saul Crespo converted from the spot in the 38th minute to extend the lead to 3-0.

The second half followed a similar pattern with East Bengal dominating proceedings. In the 54th minute, Ezzejjari converted his second penalty of the match, marking the first instance of a team scoring three penalties in a single ISL match, after Miguel Figueira was brought down inside the box by Padam. Despite being reduced to 10 men, Mohammedan attempted to respond with Juwel Mazumder missing from close range in the 68th minute. At the other end, East Bengal continued to create chances, with midfielder Lalhlansanga heading narrowly wide from an Anwar Ali delivery. The fifth goal arrived in the 75th minute when PV Vishnu finished from close range following a corner to further extend the lead. East Bengal added a sixth just four minutes later, with Anwar Ali grabbing his second of the night with a composed left-footed finish from inside the box after being set up by Mahesh Naorem.

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever


How much oil does India have? PM Modi explains nation’s preparedness amid global fuel crisis

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How much oil does India have? PM Modi explains nation’s preparedness amid global fuel crisis


How much oil does India have? PM Modi explains nation’s preparedness amid global fuel crisis
PM Narendra Modi (ANI image)

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the impact of the ongoing West Asia war on India’s fuel supplies, assuring the country of sufficient crude oil storage and uninterrupted supply arrangements.Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, PM Modi said the conflict has created a serious fuel crunch globally and India is also feeling its impact. “West Asian war has impacted us all. I want to express the government’s stance on this war in front of the House and the people of India. This war has been going on for over 3 weeks. It has created a serious fuel issue in the world. The situation in India is worrying too. This has impacted our ways of business,” he said.Highlighting India’s preparedness, PM Modi said that in the past 11 years, the country has created 53 lakh metric tonnes (MT) of strategic oil reserves, with work underway to add another 65 lakh MT. “The country is working on arranging over 65 lakh metric ton gas. Along with that, India’s refining capacity has also been increased in the past 10 years. I want to assure the country that India has enough crude oil storage and non-stop supply arrangements,” PM Modi said.He added that the Centre has started a Rs 70,000-crore project to manufacture ships. PM Modi further assured that his government is trying to procure gas and crude oil from all available sources.“Govt has constituted 7 empowered groups to evolve strategies on fuel, supply chains, fertilisers, among others,” he said. Asserting the stance of India in the ongoing conflict, PM Modi said that the nation wants peace in the region through dialogue and diplomacy.On the broader economic impact, the Prime Minister acknowledged the global disruption caused by the crisis, saying, “West Asia crisis has shaken world economy, will take a long time to recover. Govt making all efforts to minimise impact of West Asia crisis on India,” he said. PM Modi reaffirmed the commitment to maintain high economic growth. “Irrespective of crisis, maintaining high economic growth is our responsibility,” he said. The ongoing conflict in West Asia has entered its fourth week, disrupting trade routes through the Strait of Hormuz. The war started on February 28 with the killing of Iran’s former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei.