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G7 Energy Ministers Hold Off on Releasing Strategic Oil Reserves, Task IEA with Urgent Market Assessment

By
Nirjala Gaud
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0

PC (The Times of India)

G7 Opts for Measured Response Amid Soaring Oil Prices Triggered by Middle East Conflict

G7 energy ministers, representing major economies including the United States, France, the United Kingdom, and others, have decided against an immediate release of strategic oil reserves. Instead, during their meeting on Tuesday, they requested the International Energy Agency (IEA) to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the current oil market situation and supply security before any coordinated action is taken. This cautious approach comes in the wake of extreme volatility in global energy markets, driven primarily by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East involving the US, Israel, and Iran. Oil prices surged to nearly four-year highs earlier in the week, briefly approaching or exceeding levels last seen in 2022, before dropping sharply by around 11% on Tuesday following
optimistic comments from U.S. President Donald Trump about a potential swift resolution to the war.

IEA to Convene Extraordinary Meeting for In-Depth Review

The IEA, which coordinates emergency oil stockpiles among its member countries (holding over 1.2 billion barrels in public reserves plus additional industry stocks), has responded by calling an extraordinary meeting of its member governments. This session aims to evaluate market conditions and determine whether releasing emergency stocks is necessary to address any critical supply shortages.
France’s Finance Minister Roland Lescure, whose country currently holds the G7 presidency, emphasized that while no release has been ordered yet, all G7 members-including the United States-stand ready to act decisively if the IEA’s findings indicate a severe disruption. He described the decision as a commitment to a coordinated, data-driven strategy rather than a hasty reaction.

U.S. Considers Measures to Secure Key Oil Transit Routes

Adding to efforts to stabilize supplies, the United States is exploring options such as providing naval escorts for commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz-a critical chokepoint through which roughly one-fifth of global oil flows and potentially backstopping war risk insurance for tankers. These steps are intended to reassure shippers, encourage the resumption of normal traffic, and prevent prolonged disruptions amid heightened regional tensions.

Why the Decision Matters: Preserving the Emergency Safety Net

Strategic oil reserves are designed as a last-resort tool for major supply crises, not routine price fluctuations. By deferring action and prioritizing the IEA’s expert analysis, the G7 signals a preference for evidence-based intervention to calm markets without prematurely depleting these vital buffers. This measured stance reflects broader concerns over inflation risks and economic stability, especially as the conflict has already strained global energy flows and forced some producers to curtail output due to export constraints.

Flexible Bracelets: The Perfect Blend of Comfort and Style

By
EBNW Story
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0

The design of jewellery today is more concerned with the ones that are not only alluring and beautiful but also functional. Accessories are not only selected to be worn as appearance any more; they also should be convenient and multifunctional. The jewellery in the wrist has been developed to suit the requirement of individuals who desire fashionable jewellery which can be easily adjusted to daily activity.

Go with trendy designs of flexible bracelets here which present a new craftsmanship, smooth lines and a wide choice of styling of any new jewellery among modern jewellery desirers. The bracelets would be styled in a way that would follow the movements of the wrist, being comfortable and stylishly elegant, suitable both as college accessories and those to be put on during special events.

1. Comfortable for Everyday Wear

The comfort that these bracelets have is one of the primary factors behind their popularity. The adjustable design of the bracelet enabled it to move with the wrist motion without being stiff and tight. A flexible bracelet is the ideal answer to the people who are interested in jewellery that could be worn during the day and not irritated.

2. Stylish Yet Practical Design

Flexible bracelets have a smooth and smart look, they are easy to wear. This makes them look polished, and not heavy and so by sheer natural structure fits into the wrist making them still appear natural. This combination of both the design and functionality enables them to be worn both casually and officially.

3. Perfect for Both Daily and Occasion Wear

These bracelets can be shifted to daily dresses or night time clothes. The flexible bracelet will fit in the office wear, celebrating or in western wear but will not overpower an individual but will create a balanced and graceful image. Its modernistic shape makes it one that harmonizes with a broad range of styles.

4. Easy to Pair with Other Accessories

A flexible bracelet would be worn well with watches, stacked bangles or fine rings. Given that it fits easily on the wrist, it will easily integrate with other jewellery pieces, so you can develop a coordinated accessory without making your outfit look overdone.

5. Ideal for Active Lifestyles

Active lifestyles mean that people wear jewellery that does not limit them to move freely. Flexible bracelets are also compatible with the natural wrist movement in comparison to the rigid bangles since the former is always suitable to all people in constant motion.

6. Elegant Addition to Modern Jewellery Collections

The trends in jewellery collections are now revolving around luxurious items that are comfortable. An elegant and convenient bracelet is a well-designed flexible bracelet, which can be worn as an impressive object and is a versatile solution to add to numerous events and attire.

7. Timeless Style with Modern Comfort

Although the trends on jewellery are ever changing, jewellery designs that are both comfortable and fashionable always enjoy popularity. This balance is also echoed by the refined looks of a flexible bracelet and its capacity to be worn day in and out. Such fusion of functionality and beauty makes it be applicable over the fluctuating fashion trends.

Jewellery Designed for Modern Living

The accessories we have at the present times are supposed to fit both lifestyle and fashion. Jewels that blend both aesthetic and convenient workmanship enable the users to have the best of style and at the same time remain practical.

To gain a larger overview of the way modern bracelet design marries comfort, craftsmanship, and the ability to wear them every day, this style guide will examine how modern wrist jewellery carries on evolving in relation to the changing fashion demands.

US-Israel Vs Iran: Erroneous Claim Sparks Overnight Sell-Off

By
Nirjala Gaud
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0

On Tuesday, US Secretary Wright posted on his X account (formerly Twitter) that the US Navy had successfully escorted an oil tanker through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments amid ongoing tensions in the region. The post praised President Trump for “maintaining stability of global energy” during military operations against Iran.
The claim sent crude prices tumbling overnight, as traders interpreted it as a sign of easing supply disruptions in the strategically vital waterway.

However, the White House swiftly denied the report.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters: “The US has not carried out such an operation… The US Navy has not escorted a tanker or vessel at this time.” She added that President Trump, Secretary Wright, and the administration’s energy team continue to monitor the situation closely. Wright deleted the post shortly after it was published, but the damage was done-contributing to extreme intraday swings in an already volatile market.

Broader Market Pressures: IEA Reserves and Geopolitical Risks

Prices have also been whipsawed by reports surrounding the International Energy Agency (IEA). The IEA convened discussions on potentially releasing emergency oil reserves to counteract supply risks from the Strait of Hormuz disruptions. The agency oversees 1.2 billion barrels of public emergency stocks among its 30 member nations (primarily in North America, Europe, and Northeast Asia), plus an additional 600 million barrels held in industry stocks under government obligations.
Sources indicated to CNBC that the US views a coordinated release of 300 million to 400 million barrels as “appropriate”-a massive volume that could represent 25-30% of available emergency
stocks and dwarf previous interventions.

Adding to the uncertainty, President Trump issued a stern warning to Iran against mining the Strait of Hormuz, responding to reports that the country had deployed dozens of naval mines to hinder transit. This came amid broader geopolitical tensions, with the strait handling roughly one-fifth of global oil flows.

Trader Sentiment Amid “Fog of War”

Rebecca Babin, senior energy trader at CIBC Private Wealth Group, captured the market mood: “It very much feels like a market trading in the fog of war, reacting in real time as events unfold, rather than one moving in an orderly fashion. Traders continue to get whipsawed by intense price action and extreme volatility in crude, with headlines driving sharp intraday swings.”

As developments continue to unfold rapidly, oil markets remain highly sensitive to any fresh headlines on military actions, diplomatic efforts, or reserve releases. The rebound reflects relief over the corrected Strait escort claim, but underlying supply risks persist.

Breaking Borders for Wildlife: India-Nepal Unite to Safeguard the Terai Arc Landscape

By
Nirjala Gaud
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0

PC(Mondabay-India, Nepal Minute)

For the first time, India and Nepal are treating their shared forests not as separate territories but as one connected lifeline for endangered species. The agreement emphasizes the Terai Arc Landscape (TAL)—a vast, biodiversity-rich region spanning over 51,000 square kilometers across the Indo-Nepal border. This landscape is home to nearly 50% of the world’s remaining wild tigers, around 7,500 Asian elephants, and significant populations of one-horned rhinos, Gangetic dolphins, snow leopards, and vultures.

Key protected areas now linked under joint management include:

India’s Valmiki Tiger Reserve, Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, and Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary
Nepal’s Chitwan National Park, Bardia National Park, and Parsa Wildlife Reserve corridors like the Khata Corridor (connecting Nepal’s Bardia to India’s Katerniaghat) and the Valmiki-Chitwan linkage will be restored to allow seamless animal movement, genetic exchange, and better climate resilience.

Key Highlights of the India-Nepal Environmental Partnership

Landscape-Level Biodiversity Strategies: Both countries will collaborate on conservation plans for transboundary ecosystems, including the Terai Arc, Kangchenjunga, and high Himalayan landscapes, prioritizing six flagship species: Royal Bengal Tiger, Asian Elephant, Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros, Snow Leopard, Gangetic Dolphin, and vultures.

Breaking Borders for Wildlife: India-Nepal Unite to Safeguard the Terai Arc Landscape

Wildlife Corridor Restoration: Efforts to

reconnect fragmented habitats will reduce genetic isolation and support viable populations, especially for migratory species crossing the 1,850+ km shared border.

Combating Wildlife Crime: Joint intelligence sharing, capacity building for frontline staff, and coordination through networks like the South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network (SAWEN) will tackle poaching, illegal trade in rhino horns, tiger parts, and elephant ivory. Climate Action and Green Infrastructure: The MoU promotes climate-resilient strategies, smart green infrastructure, structured data sharing on threats and trends, and adaptation to Himalayan challenges like glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFS).

Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange:

Training programs, technical expertise sharing, and best practices will strengthen enforcement and monitoring. The MoU was signed between India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and Nepal’s Ministry of Forests and Environment, in the presence of Union Minister Bhupender Yadav and Nepal’s Minister Madhav Prasad Chaulagain.

Why This Matters: A Win for Wildlife, People, and the Planet. This shift from isolated protected areas to integrated transboundary management addresses real challenges: Reducing Human-Wildlife Conflict: In border districts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Nepal’s Province 2, crop damage and casualties from elephants and tigers affect thousands annually-connected corridors can minimize these. Boosting Species Recovery: Building on past successes (like Nepal’s zero-poaching achievements and tiger population growth), joint efforts support global targets such as “30 by 30” under the Convention on Biological Diversity.

Climate Resilience: The Himalayan region warms

faster than average; shared strategies protect water sources from Nepal’s glaciers that feed Indian rivers.This partnership not only strengthens India-Nepal ties but positions both nations as regional leaders in biodiversity conservation. As one minister noted, it’s a “historic” step that builds on deep cultural and environmental bonds-proving that when borders fade for wildlife, everyone benefits.

Reliance Makes History With $300-billion U.S. Refinery Deal Announced by Donald Trump

By
EBNW Story
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0

U.S President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will build its first new oil refinery in nearly 50 years, funded through investments linked to Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Industries. Calling it a landmark development, Trump said the agreement represents a massive economic commitment.

“This is a historic $300 billion deal — the biggest in U.S. history,” Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. He also thanked Reliance Industries for what he described as a “tremendous investment.”

Reliance, India’s largest private-sector company and operator of the world’s biggest refining complex in Jamnagar, currently has a market capitalisation of around $206 billion.

First U.S. refinery in five decades

The proposed refinery will be located at the port of Brownsville in the U.S. state of Texas. According to Trump, the facility will strengthen national energy security, boost domestic oil production, and generate billions of dollars in economic impact. He also claimed the project would become “the cleanest refinery in the world.” The facility will be designed to process 100 percent American shale oil and is being developed by America First Refining.

Long-term supply agreement

The refinery announcement comes at a time of heightened volatility in global oil markets due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. Oil prices have surged amid the ongoing Israel–Iran conflict escalation 2026, with crude briefly approaching $120 per barrel earlier this week.

At the time of reporting, U.S. crude oil was trading at about $84.71 per barrel, while Brent crude rose to around $88.98.

Donald Trump Israel-Iran War: Watch Out How Destruction is Getting Redefined as War Escalates…

By
EBNW Story
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0

Iran continues launching missiles and drones at Israel and the UAE following Israeli and U.S. strikes on its sites in late February. Israel’s Foreign Ministry released footage of cluster warheads targeting civilian areas near Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, while the UAE intercepted most of nine missiles and 35 drones on Tuesday, with cumulative defenses downing nearly all threats since the campaign began. The barrages have killed six people of various nationalities and injured 122 others, forcing airlines like British Airways to cancel flights and Gulf oil producers to cut 6.7 million barrels per day amid Strait of Hormuz risks.

Donald Trump Israel-Iran War: Watch Out How Destruction is Getting Redefined as War Escalates...


BREAKING: British Airways cancels all flights to and from Abu Dhabi until later this year.

Explore Pristine Amer Fort While Boating at Maota Lake. Know More Details on Boating Here…

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EBNW Story
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0

Jaipur, till date, was known for its palaces and forts. However, tourists can now feel cool while boating at Amert Fort. The tourism landscape in the Pink City received a fresh boost recently with the inauguration of boating services at Maota Lake, set against the backdrop of Amer Fort.

Explore Pristine Amer Fort While Boating at Maota Lake. Know More Details on Boating Here...

The launch event featured cultural performances by local artisans playing traditional instruments, adding a lively Rajasthani touch to the experience. Tourists enjoyed picturesque boat rides while soaking in panoramic views of the iconic Amer Fort.

Dr Rakesh Chholak, Superintendent of Amer Palace, said the initiative is expected to enhance the visitor experience and promote tourism in the region. “This project will offer tourists a unique perspective of Amer Fort and encourage more visitors to explore the heritage site,” he said.

The boating service, introduced by Jasraj Infra, includes 50 ecofriendly boats such as paddle boats, shikaras, speedboats, aquacycles, and a 30-seater luxury boat as its centerpiece.

To ensure visitor safety, authorities have arranged life jackets, trained sailors, divers, and rescue boats. The facility will also allow tourists to enjoy leisure rides, adventure activities, and pre-wedding photo shoots amid the fort’s stunning surroundings.

Why boating at Amer Fort is special

There are many places in India where you can go boating, but Amer’s Maota Lake has a very different feel. Here your boat moves slowly under the shadow of a 16th‑century fort, with high defensive walls, watchtowers and gateways watching over you from the hill. The view keeps changing as the boat turns: sometimes you see the full front face of the fort, sometimes a side angle with the hills behind, and sometimes just the reflection of yellow sandstone in the water around you.

If you enjoy photography, this experience is gold. The best shots often come just before sunset, when the sky starts turning orange and the fort glows in warm light. On calm days the water is almost still, so the reflection becomes sharp and clear. You can also get nice portraits on the boat itself – especially in the shikara‑style boats with cushions and curved roofs. Even if you are not a serious photographer, the whole ride feels peaceful and a bit cinematic.

Types of boats available in 2026

From 2026, Rajasthan Tourism and Jaipur authorities have introduced several different types of boats on Maota Lake. The idea is simple: some options are relaxed and romantic, some are fun for families with kids, and some are for people who like a little speed and adventure. Here is a quick overview so you can choose what suits you best.

Amer Fort Boating Ticket Prices 2026

The table below gives an easy snapshot of the latest proposed ticket prices for Maota Lake boating at Amer Fort in 2026. Prices can change slightly with time, so always treat this as an approximate guide and confirm at the counter when you go.

Boat TypeDurationIndian Ticket (Approx)Foreign Ticket (Approx)Notes
Paddle boat (4‑seater)30 minutes₹200₹400Good for small families or groups
Paddle boat (2‑seater special)30 minutes₹300₹600Relaxed option for couples
Electric motor boat20 minutes₹400₹800No pedalling, driven by staff
Luxury electric music boat30 minutes₹800₹1600Comfortable seating, folk music on board
Shikara ride30 minutes₹500₹1000Very scenic and relaxed
Shikara ride (special)45 minutes₹700₹1400Extra time on the water
Speed boatPer round₹400₹800Short, fast and fun

Many operators also offer half fares for Indian children between 3 and 8 years old, while kids below 3 years usually ride free with their parents. Rules can vary slightly, so do confirm at the ticket counter before paying.

Uber rolls out women-only option in the US

By
EBNW Story
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0

Uber has launched a feature allowing female drivers and passengers across the US to request trips with other women on the ride-hailing app. The feature was piloted in the US last year and led to women feeling “more comfortable in the back seat” and “more confident behind the wheel”, Uber said.

The rollout comes despite an ongoing class action lawsuit in California, filed by Uber drivers who argue the move discriminates against men. Uber said around one-fifth of its drivers in the US are women, although the ratio varies by city.

Uber’s Women Preferences was launched on Monday in response to women riders and drivers who told the firm they wanted “more control over how they ride and earn”. Women can reserve a trip with a woman driver in advance or set their preference in the app to increase the likelihood of being matched with a woman. In cities where teen accounts are available, teens and their parents can also request women drivers.

Uber already offers the woman-matching option for drivers in more than 40 countries and for riders across seven countries, including Spain, Brazil and Saudi Arabia.

Call for ‘UN Day Against Child Marriage’ as One Child Marriage Occurs Every Three Seconds Globally

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EBNW Story
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Sounding a global alarm over the persistence of child marriage, India’s noted child rights activist and internationally acclaimed lawyer Bhuwan Ribhu has called on the United Nations to declare a dedicated ‘World Day for the Elimination of Child Marriage’.

Speaking at an event alongside the 70th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, he said that while India has made significant progress in recent years with child marriages declining substantially, even today a child marriage takes place somewhere in the world every three seconds.

Emphasising the need for a dedicated global day to strengthen accountability and enforcement of laws against child marriage which is no less than child rape, Bhuwan Ribhu, Founder, Just Rights for Children, said, “India has shown that ending child marriage is possible. Through a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach focused on prevention, protection, prosecution, and the participation of children, communities, and faith leaders our country is advancing in mission mode to end child marriage by 2030. In less than three years, the prevalence has fallen from 23% to below 15%. Child marriage is nothing less than impending rape and sexual abuse of a child, often hidden behind culture or tradition. The United Nations must establish a World Day for the Elimination of Child Marriage to showcase global commitment, strengthen accountability, and mobilise governments and societies worldwide to end this crime.”

Sierra Leone’s First Lady H.E. Dr. Fatima Maada Bio and Shradha Shrestha, Minister for Women, Children and Senior Citizens, Government of Nepal along with other global dignitaries unanimously supported the demand for a dedicated day for the elimination of child marriage.

Bhuwan Ribhu, who is the first Indian lawyer to be conferred with the ‘Medal of Honour’ by the World Jurist Association (WJA) at the World Law Congress 2025, was speaking online at an event convened by Just Rights for Children in partnership with the office of Sierra Leone’s First Lady and President of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), H.E. Dr. Fatima Maada Bio.

Other speakers at the event included HE Mr. Pio Smith, Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Executive, Director – Programme, UNFPA; HE Ambassador Isabelle Rome, Ambassador At Large for Human Rights, Government of France; HE Ambassador Thomas Zahneisen, Deputy Permanent Representative of Germany; Dr. Angela Martins, (on behalf of H.E. Ambassador Amma Twum-Amoah, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, The African Union); Ligia Jeannette Pérez Peña, Executive President of the National Council for Children and Adolescents (CONANI), Government of Dominican Republic; Ana Rold, Founder and CEO of The Diplomatic Courier; Jaha Dukureh, Regional UN Women Ambassador and Founder, Regenerative Hubs; Divya Srinivasan, Director of Ending Gender-Based Violence, Equality Now; and Rachna Tyagi, General Counsel, Just Rights for Children.

Speaking during the event, participants, including ministers, senior UN officials, jurists, civil society leaders, and survivor advocates, unanimously asked the member states to establish an International Day to End Child Marriage, arguing it would elevate the issue as a global enforcement and accountability priority.

Advocates at the event said strict legal frameworks against child marriage already exist in many countries but are unevenly enforced, allowing the practice to persist.

Just Rights for Children is country’s largest network of NGOs working with over 250 partners in 451 districts for child protection and child rights and aims to end child marriage by 2030. The network has, in coordination with government agencies, local administrations, law enforcement agencies and frontline workers, has stopped almost 500,000 child marriages in the last three years in India.

Sheetala Ashtami 2026: Know Date, Timing, Significance and Puja Vidhi

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EBNW Story
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Sheetala Ashtami 2026: Also known as Basoda, is one of the auspicious days for Hindus. The religious day falls on Krishna Paksha Ashtami after Holi. Usually, it falls after eight days of Holi, but many people observe it on the first Monday or Friday after Holi. This year, it falls on Wednesday, March 11. On this day, people don’t cook food in their houses and are supposed to eat stale food.

As Sheetala Astami falls in the midst of summer and monsoon, during which a tropical country like India suffers from humidity, foods that are condensed with heat and spices only worsen the state of the body and are harder to digest. The name Sheetal itself means cold, depicting that our state of body and mind should be calm this season. As a result, people believe in having simple food for at least a day.

The festival falls during the Krishna Paksha Saptami of the Chaitra month and is observed one day before Sheetala Ashtami. Many people look up the Sheetala Saptami 2026 date, puja muhurat and vrat rituals to follow the observance properly.

Sheetala Ashtami 2026: Know Date, Timing, Significance and Puja Vidhi

Sheetala Ashtami 2026: Shubh Timing

Sheetala Ashtami Puja Muhurat – 06:50 AM to 06:47 PM

Ashtami Tithi Begins – 01:54 AM on March 11, 2026

Sheetala Ashtami 2026: What is Basoda?

Sheetala Ashtami 2026: Know Date, Timing, Significance and Puja Vidhi

Dedicated to Goddess Sheetala, according to Basoda culture, Hindu families don’t like fire for cooking, hence are supposed to eat stale food. This belief also stays true to science. On this day, offer cold food to Goddess Sheetala. It is believed that Goddess Sheetala controls smallpox, chickenpox and measles, so to seek her blessings, people worship her to ward off any outbreak of such diseases.

Sheetala Ashtami is more popular in North Indian states like Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. In Gujarat, a similar ritual, called Shitala Satam, is observed just a day before Krishna Janmashtami.

Sheetala Ashtami 2026: Know Date, Timing, Significance and Puja Vidhi

Sheetala Ashtami 2026: Puja Rituals

Wake up early in the morning, take a bath and wear fresh clothes. Clean the house temple and offer a prayer to Goddess Sheetala Mata and offer her cold stale food. While praying, read Sheetala Ashtakam and seeking for her blessings.

SHEETALA SAPTAMI 2026 DATE AND PUJA MUHURAT

According to the Hindu calendar, Sheetala Saptami in 2026 will be observed on March 10.

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