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President Droupadi Murmu presented 66 Padma awards at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Violinist N Rajam received Padma Vibhushan. Actor Dharmendra was honored posthumously with Padma Vibhushan. Actor Prosenjit Chatterjee received Padma Shri. The ceremony recognized distinguished service in various fields. A total of 131 Padma awards were approved for 2026.

Puducherry Chief Minister N. Rangasamy resigned from his post following the recent Assembly election results, where the NDA retained power. Rangasamy, a veteran leader and founder of AINRC, has served multiple terms as Chief Minister. His resignation marks another significant moment in Puducherry's evolving political landscape.

Rangasamy, who has been the longest-serving chief minister of Puducherry, presented a letter of support from the legislative assembly members demanding the right to form the government. The letter has been sent for the President's approval.

Early trends show the NDA, led by AINRC, is set to retain power in Puducherry. Chief Minister N Rangasamy secured the Thattanchavady seat, a key victory. The Congress-DMK alliance struggles, indicating a fragmented opposition. The NDA's organizational strength and voter outreach appear to have secured them another term, promising continuity in governance.

Puducherry's vote counting begins Monday for its 30 constituencies, a high-stakes election with record 89.83% turnout. The ruling NDA, led by AINRC, faces a strong challenge from the Congress-led SPA and emerging player TVK. Key constituencies like Thattanchavady and Mannadipet are closely watched.

Senior and first-time Karnataka Congress MLAs are in New Delhi pushing for a cabinet reshuffle. They aim to secure ministerial berths for experienced leaders and new legislators. The delegation plans to meet party high command to press their demands. This move comes amid ongoing discussions about leadership changes within the state government.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin fiercely criticized the Union government for demanding the state reconsider its farmer incentives, alleging the Centre views increased paddy production as problematic. He challenged opposition leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami to condemn the Centre's stance, accusing him of 'plain treachery' for not raising farmer support during his tenure.

Puducherry's 9.5 lakh voters will elect 294 candidates across 30 Assembly seats on April 9. The ruling NDA faces a challenge from the INDIA bloc and actor Vijay's TVK party. Chief Minister N Rangasamy is contesting from two constituencies as all arrangements are in place for the polls.

Chennai's electoral battleground is set, with DMK leaders M K Stalin and Udhayanidhi Stalin contesting key seats. The party relies on its governance and a blend of experienced and new candidates. TVK's presence could impact close contests, while AIADMK veterans face the challenge of reconnecting with younger voters.