Lucknow, April 2 (IANS) In a strong crackdown on black marketing of petrol, diesel, and LPG, the Uttar Pradesh government has registered 233 FIRs and arrested 20 people since the statewide campaign was launched on March 12 on the directives of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

According to the Food and Civil Supplies Department, 19,882 raids were conducted across the state during this period.

While 20 individuals have been arrested so far, prosecution proceedings have been initiated against 237 others.

Additionally, 33 cases have been registered specifically against LPG distributors, and 200 FIRs have been filed against other offenders involved in black marketing of cooking gas.

The Chief Minister has repeatedly emphasised strict action against those indulging in black marketing and spreading rumours about shortages.

Officials said the ongoing drive is a direct outcome of his clear instructions to take firm action without disrupting the regular supply chain.

The department has issued strict warnings to all 4,107 LPG distributors in the state and has activated a 24-hour control room at the state level to monitor complaints.

District administrations have been directed to remain vigilant and conduct continuous field checks.

Despite the aggressive action against black marketers, the government maintained that the supply of petroleum products remains completely normal across Uttar Pradesh.

There are 12,888 functional petrol pumps in the state, and sales figures between March 28 and April 1 have remained at usual levels.

The state currently holds comfortable stocks of 97,000 kilolitres of petrol and 126,000 kilolitres of diesel.

Senior officials assured that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure an uninterrupted supply of petrol, diesel, and LPG as per demand.

They appealed to the public not to believe rumours and to report any instances of black marketing or artificial shortage immediately to the authorities.

The state government has made it clear that any attempt to create panic or indulge in profiteering through black marketing will be dealt with strictly.

--IANS

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Bhubaneswar, April 2 (IANS) The Odisha government has directed all departments, district administrations, and urban local bodies not to transfer officials and employees engaged in census duties to ensure the successful completion of the Census 2027, according to an official statement issued on Thursday.

Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, Arabinda Padhee, has written to secretaries of various departments, heads of departments, district collectors of all districts, municipal commissioners, and chief census officers, issuing directions to ensure proper discharge of duties related to the census 2027.

The Odisha government has undertaken extensive preparations to ensure the smooth conduct of the Census 2027 in the state.

The census process will be carried out in two phases through digital mode. In the first phase, house listing and housing census will be conducted for 30 days from April 16 to May 15, 2026.

Meanwhile, the self-enumeration programme will be conducted from April 1 to April 15, 2026. The second phase, population enumeration, will be carried out in February 2027.

“To ensure the successful completion of the census work, the state government has directed all departments, district administrations, and urban local bodies not to transfer officials and employees engaged in census duties. Principal Census Officers of all districts and municipal corporations have been instructed to complete the training of census personnel within the stipulated timeline,” informed the state government.

Additionally, the master trainers and field trainers engaged in census work will not be transferred until the completion of the exercise, till March 2027.

The state government further mandated that any transfer of supervisors and enumerators will require prior approval from the concerned district Principal Census Officer.

The Departmental heads of all the state government departments have been directed to strictly adhere to the transfer control guidelines for field-level census officials to ensure smooth execution of the process.

All officials and employees engaged in the census will perform their duties in accordance with the Census Act, 1948, and the Census Rules, 1990.

The state government has appealed for cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure the successful completion of Census 2027.

Meanwhile, the second meeting of the State-Level Coordination Committee for Census 2027 was held on Thursday under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Anu Garg at the Conference Hall of Lok Seva Bhawan here.

--IANS

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New Delhi, April 2 (IANS) Senior BJP leader Gourav Vallabh on Thursday took a swipe at the Congress, suggesting that senior party leader Kamal Nath should "give tuition" to Rahul Gandhi after the former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister contradicted the party’s narrative on the alleged LPG shortage.

Reacting to Kamal Nath’s statement in Chhindwara that there is "no shortage of LPG" and that "an environment is being created" to suggest otherwise, Vallabh said: "Kamal Nath should give tuition to Rahul Gandhi. Rahul Gandhi should take tuition from Kamal Nath between 4 and 5 in the evening, from Anand Sharma between 5 and 6 on how India’s foreign policy is strong, and from Shashi Tharoor between 6 and 7..."

Vallabh highlighted what he described as contradictions within the Congress ranks.

While the party has been attacking the Centre and state governments over alleged shortages of LPG and petroleum products, Kamal Nath denied any crisis.

The BJP leader further said that several senior Congress leaders are now speaking in a different tone from Rahul Gandhi.

Referring to Anand Sharma’s recent remarks on the government’s handling of the West Asia situation, Vallabh said: "They are saying the exact opposite of what Rahul Gandhi says in his election speeches, where he repeatedly makes statements that embarrass the country. These former Congress leaders are saying that today, whether it is foreign policy, economic policy, cultural policy, or political policy, India is at its golden phase."

Vallabh also criticised Rahul Gandhi’s recent parliamentary conduct and his comments on the CAPF Administration Bill.

“Rahul Gandhi has no faith in the traditions of Parliament. Now you say you weren’t given a chance to speak. When Parliament is in session, you don’t engage,” he said.

Taking a final dig at the Congress manifesto released for the Assam Assembly polls, Vallabh said, “Rahul Gandhi, you don’t need any manifesto. The Congress party is heading for its biggest defeat.”

Kamal Nath’s remarks have drawn political attention, as the Congress has been raising the issue of LPG shortage as a poll plank in several states.

Political observers say the episode reflects differing views within the party.

--IANS

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New Delhi, April 2 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday welcomed the passage of the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026, describing it as a significant step towards creating a trust-based governance system that will greatly enhance ease of living and ease of doing business in India.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister wrote: “A big boost to ‘Ease of Living’ and ‘Ease of Doing Business’… It’s a matter of immense delight that Parliament has passed the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill 2026. This Bill strengthens a trust-based framework that empowers our citizens. It marks the end of rules and regulations that are outdated. At the same time, it ensures speedy disposal of cases, reduces litigation burden with decriminalisation. What is also noteworthy is the consultative approach with which this Bill was drafted. My compliments to all those who have given their insights towards the drafting of the Bill and supported it in Parliament.”

The Rajya Sabha passed the Bill by voice vote on Thursday, a day after the Lok Sabha cleared it.

The legislation seeks to amend 79 central Acts administered by 23 Ministries and modifies a total of 784 provisions.

Out of these, 717 provisions are being decriminalised to promote ease of doing business, while 67 provisions have been amended to facilitate ease of living.

The Bill also rationalises more than 1,000 offences by removing outdated and redundant provisions.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal, while replying to the debate, said the Bill would particularly benefit common citizens, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and sectors like animal husbandry.

He added that the government has corrected the shortcomings of the previous version by making penalties fairer and increasing them where necessary.

The Bill replaces criminal penalties such as imprisonment with monetary fines, warnings, or improvement notices for many minor, technical, and procedural offences.

For instance, certain violations under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and the National Highways Act that earlier attracted jail terms will now attract only civil penalties.

The legislation is seen as a major regulatory reform that moves away from a colonial-era approach of excessive punishment towards a more modern, trust-based system.

It is expected to significantly reduce the compliance burden on citizens and businesses while improving the overall regulatory environment.

--IANS

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Kolkata, April 2 (IANS) Left-arm pacer Jaydev Unadkat returned with impressive figures of 3-21 as Sunrisers Hyderabad delivered a commanding bowling performance to crush Kolkata Knight Riders by 65 runs and secure their first victory of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Thursday.

After SRH posted 226/8, the highest total of the competition so far, thanks to Heinrich Klaasen hitting 52 and Abhishek Sharma smashing 48, Unadkat’s spell was the highlight of their successful defence. He was well supported by Eshan Malinga, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Harsh Dubey, who maintained relentless pressure throughout as KKR were bowled out for 161 all out in 16 overs, after being 110/3 at one point.

The victory was significant not only because it gave SRH their first two points of the campaign, but also because it marked the first successful defence of a total in this year’s tournament. Barring Angkrish Raghuvanshi’s 52, KKR faltered against the disciplined SRH attack, with the pacers using slower balls very well. As a result, they never really threatened to chase down the uphill target.

KKR’s chase began explosively as Finn Allen smashed 28 off just seven balls, including four boundaries and two sixes in the 25-run opening over bowled by David Payne. But Dubey struck a crucial blow by dismissing Allen through a sharp caught and bowled chance.

Ajinkya Rahane and Raghuvanshi carried the momentum through a 37-run stand for the second wicket, with the latter looking sublime in his strokeplay. But SRH soon made a comeback as Unadkat removed Rahane with a slower ball, which he hit to mid-wicket, while Cameron Green was run out on the last ball of the sixth over, leaving KKR at 74/3.

Raghuvanshi continued to attack and reached his second consecutive fifty in 27 balls, before being run out for 52 in the 11th over. Nitish, on the money with his lines, accounted for Anukul Roy and Rinku Singh in quick succession to derail KKR’s chase.

Despite a brief counterattack from Sunil Narine, who struck two sixes in his 12-run cameo, Malinga dismissed him and Ramandeep Singh in successive overs. Unadkat then returned to remove Kartik Tyagi and Varun Chakaravarthy to end with figures of 3-21 and get their first win of the competition.

Previously, blistering knocks from Abhishek and Klaasen helped SRH post the highest total of the season. For KKR, pacer Blessing Muzarabani ended with 4-41, and despite the side not conceding much in the back-end overs, they still had an uphill mountain to climb.

After being put in to bat, SRH got off to a flying start, with Abhishek and Travis Head tearing into the new-ball attack, who erred in bowling too full and short. Head smashed 46 off 21 balls, laced with six fours and three sixes, while Abhishek struck 48 off 21 deliveries, including four fours and as many sixes. The pair added 82 runs in under five overs, setting the tone for a mammoth score.

After Head was taken out by Tyagi, Muzarabani pulled things back for KKR with a double strike in the eighth over - removing Abhishek and a belligerent Ishan Kishan in quick succession. Though Narine and Chakaravarthy were expensive, Anukul Roy managed to hold his own by accounting for Aniket Verma, leaving SRH at 118/4 in 9.2 overs.

Klaasen and Reddy (39 off 24 balls) steadied the innings with a crucial 82-run stand for the fifth wicket, the second-highest partnership for SRH in IPL history at that position. Whenever the bowlers erred, the duo were quick to send the ball over the boundary ropes – with Reddy also given a reprieve by Chakaravarthy.

Though Nitish and Salil Arora fell to Vaibhav Arora, Klaasen carried on and maintained his composure to complete a fluent half-century – his first of this season. His 52 off 35 balls featured four boundaries and a six, ensuring SRH maintained momentum despite regular wickets.

Dubey chipped in with a brisk cameo, striking successive boundaries off Arora in the 19th over. Muzarabani returned to claim two more wickets in the final, including Klaasen, to finish with his first four-fer in the IPL. Despite the late strikes, SRH crossed the 220-mark, which was more than sufficient to get them off the mark on the points table.

Brief scores:

Sunrisers Hyderabad 226/8 in 20 overs (Heinrich Klaasen 52, Abhishek Sharma 48; Blessing Muzarabani 4-41, Vaibhav Arora 2-47) beat Kolkata Knight Riders 161 all out in 16 overs (Angkrish Raghuvanshi 52, Rinku Singh 35; Jaydev Unadkat 3-21, Eshan Malinga 2-14) by 65 runs

--IANS

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New York, April 2 (IANS) US President Donald Trump has fired his embattled Attorney General Pam Bondi, announcing it on a delicately worded post on Truth Social on Thursday.

She is the second Cabinet official dismissed by Trump, following the removal of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on March 5.

President Trump said that he was appointing Bondi's Deputy, Todd Blanche, as the Acting Attorney General.

"We love Pam, and she will be transitioning to a much needed and important new job in the private sector, to be announced at a date in the near future," he added.

In his social media post carefully worded to minimise the fallout, President Trump praised Bondi as a "Great American Patriot and a loyal friend, who faithfully served as my Attorney General over the past year".

"Pam did a tremendous job overseeing a massive crackdown in Crime across our Country, with Murders plummeting to their lowest level since 1900," the US President added.

The Attorney General in the US has wide powers as the Head of the Department of Justice, taking on some of the functions akin to that of a Home Minister in other government structures.

Considered the top law enforcement official in the country, the Attorney General controls powerful agencies like the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

President Trump was reportedly displeased with Bondi's release of the files relating to Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted pedophile who moved in high-level circles.

To his embarrassment, Trump's name cropped up in the files, although there was nothing incriminating about him.

Several high-profile officials connected to both political parties, including former Democrat President Bill Clinton, popped in the files.

Bondi has been close to President Trump, serving on the legal team defending him during impeachment trials.

She had earlier been the Attorney General of Florida state.

The US Justice Department was roiled by several controversies, among them the targeting of President Trump's political foes.

Several lawyers and other officials with the Department have quit because of their differences with Bondi.

Bondi was also under pressure from Trump to quickly prosecute those he considered had crossed paths with him.

--IANS

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Male (Maldives), April 2 (IANS) A familiar rivalry will take centre stage when the India U20 men's team faces Bangladesh in the final of the SAFF U20 Championship 2026 at the National Stadium in Malé, Maldives, on Friday.

With both sides having shared intense contests in recent times, including a 1-1 draw in the group stage, the summit clash promises another gripping encounter where composure and belief could decide the title.

India head into the final aiming to defend their crown and secure a fifth SAFF trophy at this level. The weight of history, therefore, will add to the intensity.

India coach Mahesh Gawali acknowledged the challenge posed by Bangladesh. “It won’t be easy. Bangladesh are an aggressive and talented side, and it will be tough for us. Moreover, there will be a lot of support for them in the stadium. Our boys are used to that. We just have to perform on the ground. But we will focus on our goal and performance,” Gawali added.

The final also brings back memories of last year’s SAFF U19 Championship summit clash, where India defeated Bangladesh on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time. Bangladesh will be eager to reverse that result, adding another layer of anticipation to the contest.

The two teams also met earlier in the group stage, playing out a hard-fought draw on March 28. That result underlined how closely matched the sides are. Their journeys to the final, however, have been contrasting. India produced an emphatic performance in the semi-final, scoring five goals against Bhutan, while Bangladesh battled to a narrow 1-0 win over Nepal to secure their place.

Gawali was pleased with the team’s performance in the semi-final but highlighted areas for improvement.

“I am happy and proud of the performance of the team in the Bhutan game. However, there are areas where we can still improve. In the first half, we were a bit casual on a couple of occasions. But we came back strongly in the second half. I am very proud of the boys. They came together as a unit and performed really well,” he said.

India’s attacking hopes will once again rest on Omang Dodum, who is the joint-highest scorer in the tournament with three goals. Vishal Yadav and Rohen Singh Chaphamayum, both with two goals each, have also been influential. With the race for the top scorer title still open, the trio will be keen to make their mark. Dodum’s performances have even drawn many accolades, although head coach Mahesh Gawali prefers to keep the focus on collective growth.

“Omang is a special player, but all the players are very promising. Hope he carries on his performance and makes us all proud,” Gawali said.

India’s midfielders have played a crucial role in maintaining structure and tempo, helping the team transition smoothly between defence and attack. Their discipline has complemented a well-organised backline that has stayed compact under pressure. Behind them, goalkeeper Suraj Singh Aheibam has produced assured displays, with his composure and timely interventions adding confidence to the defensive unit.

With both teams evenly matched and the title at stake, the final promises drama, tension, and high-quality football, as India look to defend their crown and Bangladesh aim to rewrite the script.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, April 2 (IANS) Hollywood actress Hailee Steinfeld has embraced motherhood, as she has given birth to a baby girl. The ‘Pitch Perfect’ actress and her husband Josh Allen have confirmed they have welcomed their first child into the world, but haven't offered any details including her name or when she was born.

The couple announced in a post shared to Hailee's Beau Society Substack, reports ‘Female First UK’.

They shared, “Our baby girl has arrived. We’re feeling incredibly grateful and blessed and savouring these early moments. Thank you so much for the love and well wishes”.

Last month, the 29-year-old actress celebrated her impending new arrival with 30 of her closest female friends and family members at a backyard baby shower.

Hailee, who married Josh last year, wrote on her Substack, "On a sunny Saturday in Los Angeles, my mom and about 30 women I love so much gathered in my most comfortable place, my backyard, for a baby shower. My mom planned the entire gorgeous thing”.

As per ‘Female First UK’, the actress shared that there was "no baby shower theme, per se, but a subtle nursery rhyme thread was woven throughout the decor".

The ‘Sinners’ star also noted that nursery books were scattered "everywhere". Hailee said, "Everyone brought a book, so this baby is building quite the little library”.

What's more, Hailee's mom even installed a knitting station for her guests, so they could create something special for her baby.

She added, "It’s a very full-circle moment for me because my mom took up knitting when I made my first movie. She was sitting in a trailer all day and needed something to do. It was Sudoku or knitting, and she chose the latter. Our family would joke that she was going to knit the red carpet because she didn’t stop. She taught me how to knit way back when. I can’t really cast on or off, but I was able to knit a square to put on this baby’s blanket. I feel like I reopened a fun hobby”.

Hailee and Josh tied the knot in May 2025.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Feb 13 (IANS) Maharashtra NCP(SP) President Shashikant Shinde has written a commemorative editorial in the party’s magazine, shedding light on the hidden dynamics of the split and the alleged merger plans between the two NCP factions.

Shinde claimed that late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was forced to exit the original NCP due to threats and conspiracies orchestrated by "invisible powers."

He further said that a final decision to merge the two parties was reached in the presence of Maratha strongman Sharad Pawar and was to be announced on February 12.

In a massive revelation, Shinde asserted that Sharad Pawar and other senior leaders had agreed to hand over the entire command of the unified party to Ajit Pawar following the merger.

“Fulfilling this merger and rebuilding the party with strength would be the only true tribute to Ajit Dada," Shinde wrote.

Shinde clarified, "It was our decision to hand over all party responsibilities to Ajit Dada once the merger process was complete. However, fate had other plans. We were all mentally prepared to accept Ajit Dada’s leadership.”

Shinde appealed to the party faithful, asserting that a merger is the only true tribute to the late leader. He noted, “Ajit Pawar’s dream remains unfulfilled, and it is now the party's responsibility to complete it. Unity: Reuniting and strengthening the NCP is the ultimate goal. Leaders and workers must set aside their differences and broaden their perspective to achieve this unity.”

Following the publication of the article, senior NCP(SP) leader and former Home Minister Anil Deshmukh remarked, "I am unaware of what our State President has said. Since he wrote the article, he likely has more information than I do. I personally have no knowledge of this matter."

While Sharad Pawar has avoided commenting publicly on the matter, Shinde’s article has brought these behind-the-scenes developments to light. However, Shinde’s revelations have sparked a new controversy and the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) has reacted with sharp skepticism.

Party spokesperson Suraj Chavan questioned the timing of these claims. Chavan alleged that discussing a merger while the leader’s mortal remains were still at Vidya Pratishthan suggests a "lust for power" rather than genuine respect. He clarified that Sunetra Pawar is now the ultimate authority of their party and any dialogue must happen through her.

Further, the party legislator Amol Mitkari stated that no such merger discussions have occurred within their internal party meetings, attributing the rumours to the rival camp's leaders.

While the Pawar family continues to demonstrate a unique balance of political rivalry and familial bond — recently seen at family weddings — the political future remains clouded.

All eyes are now on Sunetra Pawar. Whether she will pursue the "unfulfilled dream" of a unified NCP or maintain a separate identity, remains a question that will define the next chapter of Maharashtra politics.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) India’s share in global electronics demand has expanded at a rapid compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.2 per cent, significantly outpacing global growth of 4.4 per cent between 2015 and 2024, driven primarily by the sharp rise in mobile phone exports, according to NITI Aayog's Trade Watch Quarterly report for July-September 2025-26, launched on Friday.

Between 2016 and 2024, electronics exports increased nearly five-fold, reaching USD 42.1 billion. With global electronics trade valued at USD 4.6 trillion, the sector represents one of the largest and fastest-evolving segments of the world economy. India has demonstrated particular strength in products such as mobile phones, consumer electronics, and communication equipment, with exports increasingly directed towards major final-consumption markets including the United States, the United Kingdom, and the UAE, the report states.

Electronics, the thematic focus of this quarter's edition, has emerged as a cornerstone of India's manufacturing and export transformation. Now the second-largest item in India's export basket, the sector is both technology-led and deeply interconnected with industries such as automotive, renewable energy, telecom, defence, and digital services, making it a powerful multiplier for industrial growth.

The report states that having established a strong foothold in assembly and system integration, India is now entering the next phase of its electronics journey, moving decisively toward component manufacturing and higher value addition. This transition is supported by targeted policy measures, including the Union Budget's Rs 40,000 crore allocation under the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme, aimed at strengthening domestic capabilities.

The analysis underscores that sustained competitiveness will be driven by deeper integration into global electronics value chains, encompassing printed circuit board design, semiconductor assembly and testing, power electronics, and embedded systems. Complemented by continued improvements in logistics efficiency, tariff rationalisation, and industry-aligned skill development, these shifts position electronics as a key engine of India's export growth and technological advancement in the coming decade.

NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman Suman Bery said, "Electronics, as the organising core of modern manufacturing value chains, with semiconductors and components, plays a key role in determining trade balances and technological sovereignty. While India has achieved scale in final assembly, sustained competitiveness will depend on correcting structural cost disabilities, deepening domestic component ecosystems, and leveraging anchor investments in components to embed Indian firms more firmly within global production networks."

The publication also provides a comprehensive assessment of global and domestic trade trends at a time when global trade growth has moderated but remains positive, with services continuing to outperform goods and developing regions emerging as key drivers.

The analysis highlights that India's trade performance in Q2 FY26 was driven by export-led momentum sustaining the overall trade expansion amid heightened global uncertainty. Services and merchandise exports recorded robust growth of around 8.5 per cent, outpacing import growth in both merchandise and services.

At a structural level, the edition underscores the deepening of trade among developing economies, which has expanded nearly four-fold since 2005 and now accounts for a rising share of global exports, with India’s trade trajectory increasingly aligned with this Global South rebalancing through regional value chains and new trade corridors.

Further, this edition highlights the growing role of e-commerce as a key enabler of future export growth. India is now among the world’s top six e-commerce markets, with electronics accounting for nearly half of online retail.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) In a farmer-centric step to stabilise domestic markets and ensure remunerative returns to producers, the Centre on Friday approved the export of 25 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of wheat, along with an additional 5 LMT of wheat products.

According to a Consumer Affairs Ministry statement, wheat stock availability with private entities during 2025–26 stands at approximately 75 LMT, which is nearly 32 LMT higher compared to the corresponding period last year.

"This substantial year-on-year increase indicates a comfortable supply position in the country. Furthermore, as on April 1, 2026, total wheat availability in the central pool with FCI is projected at around 182 LMT, thus ensuring that export permissions will not impact domestic food security requirements," it said.

Moreover, wheat acreage in Rabi 2026 has also increased to about 334.17 lakh hectares compared to 328.04 lakh hectares last year.

This reflects strong farmer confidence in wheat cultivation supported by assured MSP and procurement mechanisms, and signals the likelihood of another robust harvest, the official statement further added.

The decision to permit export of 25 LMT of wheat and 5 LMT wheat products will help stabilise domestic prices, improve market liquidity, ensure efficient stock rotation, and further strengthen farmers’ income while ensuring national food security.

Meanwhile, to facilitate sugar exports, the government decided to allow export of an additional 5 LMT of sugar to willing sugar mills during the current Sugar Season 2025–26.

Earlier, the government had permitted the export of 15 LMT of sugar during the current Sugar Season 2025–26. This decision is expected to facilitate higher sugar exports and help in managing surplus sugar availability in the country.

As per data, only about 1.97 LMT of sugar has been exported up to January 31, 2026.

In addition, approximately 2.72 LMT of sugar has been contracted for export by sugar mills to date.

The ministry said that the additional export quantity of 5 LMT shall be made available to willing sugar mills, subject to the condition that at least 70 per cent of their allocated quantity is exported by June 30, 2026.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Friday met leaders of several farm unions from across the country at the Parliament House.

During the meeting, the farm union representatives expressed strong opposition to the India-US trade deal and conveyed their deep concern over the potential impact on farmers’ livelihoods, particularly those engaged in the cultivation of corn, soybean, cotton, fruits, and nuts.

The leaders told the Congress leader that they fear the agreement could open the door for agricultural imports, which may adversely affect domestic producers. Gandhi also reiterated his position, stating that the trade deal has opened the door for agricultural imports and warned that many other crops could soon be impacted as well.

The discussion also focused on the need for a large-scale national movement to oppose the deal and safeguard the livelihoods of farmers and farm labourers.

The farm leaders who participated in the discussion included Sukhpal S. Khaira (All India Kisan Congress), Ranjit S. Sandhu (GKS Rajasthan), Adv. Ashok Balhara (Bharatiya Kisan Mazdoor Union, Haryana), P.T. John (KMM Kerala), Baldev (BKU Krantikari, Zira), R. NandKumar (Progressive Farmers Front), Amarjit S. Mohri (BKU Shaheed Bhagat Singh), Akhilesh Shukla (All India Kisan Congress), Kedar Sirohi (Aam Kisan Union), Kiranjit S. Sandhu (Kisan Congress Punjab), Gurpreet S. Sangha (Rajya Sabha), Guramneet S. Mangat (Kisan Mazdoor Morcha - India), Hameed Malik (J&K Zamidara Forum), Tejveer Singh (KMM), Dharamvir Goyat (Haryana Kisan Sangarsh Samiti), Ishwar Singh Nain (Krishak Samaj), and Satbir Khatana (South Haryana Kisan Union).

Rahul Gandhi on Thursday asserted he would not be deterred by any FIR, criminal case or privilege motion and asserted that he would continue to fight for farmers' rights.

In a video post on X, Gandhi had reiterated his opposition to the India-US trade deal, claiming it would severely impact Indian farmers. He alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had "opened the doors" of India’s agriculture market to foreign players at the cost of domestic producers.

"I have spoken the truth in Parliament. If you do not like the truth, that is a different matter. The country understands the truth. Do whatever you want to do. Let an FIR be filed, let a case be registered or bring a privilege motion. I and the entire party stand with farmers," Gandhi had said.

He had said any trade agreement that threatens farmers' livelihoods or weakens the country's food security is anti-farmer. Gandhi also claimed that corn, soybean, cotton and fruit growers would be the first to suffer, alleging that the government would eventually open the entire farm sector to foreign interests and corporate allies.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, April 2 (IANS) Hollywood actress Jamie Lee Curtis welcomed grand-daughter in December, just a week after the deaths of her close friends Rob and Michele Reiner.

The ‘Freaky Friday’ actress and her husband Christopher Guest are parents to two adopted daughters and their eldest child Annie Guest, whose godparents were the late film director and his wife, and her husband Jason Wolf welcomed their first son into the world during a very emotional time for the family, reports ‘Female First UK’.

Speaking to Michele Obama on her IMO podcast, Jamie said, "I never thought I would have children. "I never thought in my wildest dreams I would be a grandma. A granny. I want to be Granny”.

The 67-year-old actress grew emotional as she reflected on the contrasting feelings of the time because of the tragic deaths of Rob and Michele, whose son Nick has been charged with their murders.

She said, "My husband (Christopher Guest) and I became grandparents. Their baby boy was born in December. And it was a week after Rob and Michele (died). And Rob and Michele are her godparents, and they died on her birthday. My beautiful daughter, who loved them, as we all did, managed to be able to metabolise that grief and sadness, as we have all had to do. Obviously, nothing greater than their children. But as close friends”.

As per ‘Female First UK’, Jamie noted "colleagues and friends and people we all admired" were also mourning the couple.

She added, "And then my daughter and her husband brought their son to this world a week later. Life on life's harshest terms and life on life's most beautiful terms”.

The ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once' star had got Annie's approval before making the news of her son public, and her daughter was happy for her to speak up because she admires former First Lady Michelle so much.

The actress said, "I called my daughter to say, 'Hey, I'm about to do this (podcast)' We have never talked about it. It's been a private matter. But we live in a world, many people know, in our circle. Many, many people know that we're grandparents. One of these days, somebody's gonna say something. (I) said, 'I'm about to do this thing, I think it's gonna come up. How would you feel about me talking about it?' She said, 'Tell her I love her.' My daughter Annie said, 'Tell her I love her’”.

"You are loved and so respected that she would say, 'Yes, Mom, you can talk about it to Michelle Obama, 'cause she's a G. Because she loves you, because you represented love in the world and you brought love to the White House and beyond. And so it's really thrilling to me that the first time I'm going to say to the universe that I became a granny is here with you”, she added.

--IANS

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Chennai, April 2 (IANS) The makers of director Umapathi Ramaiah's upcoming film 'TN 2026', featuring actor Natty in the lead, on Thursday released an entertaining teaser of the political satire, much to the delight of fans and film buffs.

Taking to its X timeline, Kannan Ravi Groups, the production house producing the film, wrote, "Indha Varusham Nammadhaan (This year belongs to us!) #TN2026 teaser is out now. Yaar Manadhaiyum Pun Paduthuvadharku Alla (Not meant to hurt the feelings of anyone!) #ThangaNatchathiram #TN2026FromApril10. Produced by #KannanRavi @KRGOffl. Co-produced by #DeepakRavi. A @umapathyramaiah film. A @DarbukaSiva musical."

The film's teaser opens with an announcement that popular star Thanga Natchathiram Kulkanth Kumar (played by Natty), who is considered to be the number one star at the Tamil box office, has converted his fan club into a people's welfare association.

While the actor's move to enter politics thrills his fans, it displeases rival parties and politicians, with one politician (played by Redin Kingsley) asking in a rally, "Hey actor, this is Tamil Nadu. You can wish to live. That's okay. But you intend to rule. Is that not wrong?"

The teaser shows Golden Star Kulkanth Kumar's rise in politics. One of Kulkanth Kumar's supporters is shown retorting to a mediaperson, "Why shouldn't we talk politics? Don't actors know politics?"

On the whole, the teaser promises an engaging and entertaining political drama.

The film is slated to hit screens on April 10 this year.

For the unaware, the TN in the film's title TN 2026 stands for Thanga Natchathiram (Golden Star).

Produced by Kannan Ravi and Deepak Ravi under the banner of KRG Kannan Ravi Group, the film will be a lively political satire blended with commercial entertainment.

Sources in the know say that the film, laced with political humour, will look to present socially relevant topics in its plot. It will be an entertainer that is likely to appeal to all sections of the audience.

Story for the film has been penned by National Award winning actor Thambi Ramaiah, while the film's screenplay and direction have been handled by Thambi Ramaiah's son Umapathi Ramaiah. The film has been produced on a notable scale by Kannan Ravi and Deepak Ravi, who continue to deliver quality projects in Tamil cinema.

Alongside Natty, the film will also feature actors Siruttha Rao, Chandini Tamilarasan, and Yashika Aannand as the female leads. Veteran actors including M. S. Bhaskar, Ilavarasu, and Thambi Ramaiah appear together for the first time.

The supporting cast includes Redin Kingsley, Lollu Sabha Maaran, Bigg Boss Muthukumar, Adithya Kathir, Chitra Lakshmanan, Thalaivasal Vijay, Vaiyapuri, Vadivukkarasi, Viji Chandrasekhar, Sreeja Ravi, and Indraja Robo Shankar. Actor and dance choreographer Sandy has done a cameo in this film.

On the technical front, music for the film is by Dharbuka Siva and cinematography is by P.G. Muthiah. Editing is by Arul R. Thangam and Art direction by NK Rahul. Mahesh Mathew has choreographed the stunts in the film while Sandy and Praveen have choreographed the dances.

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Los Angeles, April 2 (IANS) Hollywood actress Lily Collins, who is known for ‘Emily in Paris’, has shared an adorable update about her daughter.

The actress, 37, and her husband Charlie McDowell welcomed their little girl, Tove Jane McDowell, through surrogate on January 31, 2025, reports ‘People’ magazine.

The actress recently posted a picture on the Stories section of her Instagram showing that Tove had just reached a seriously sweet milestone.

As per ‘People’, in the picture, Tove could be seen sitting in her high chair with a full head of ashy brown hair, with Collins showing her 29 million followers that her daughter’s tresses were getting long enough for her to tie them back as she put Tove’s hair into a cute, mini ponytail. “This melts me,” she wrote alongside the precious images.

Lily Collins took the pictures while Tove was wearing two bibs and tucking into a meal, seemingly at home.

She and McDowell sparked dating rumors in 2019 and confirmed they were in a relationship a month later by making their romance Instagram official. The couple then got engaged in 2020 and wed the following year, before welcoming Tove four years later.

“Welcome to the center of our world Tove Jane McDowell”, Lily Collins and Charlie wrote on Instagram at the time.

They also publicly thanked their surrogate, writing, “Words will never express our endless gratitude for our incredible surrogate and everyone who helped us along the way. We love you to the moon and back again”.

Since then, the actress has experienced her first Mother’s Day with her bundle of joy, and spoke about how becoming a parent has changed her life.

“You have expanded my world, broadened my horizons, and widened my smile more than I knew was possible. And to think, it’s only the beginning. I couldn’t be more grateful or honored to be your mum”, she added.

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Mumbai, April 2 (IANS) Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan, who will be seen in the upcoming historical epic ‘Raja Shivaji’, is walking down the memory lane that leads to the start of his friendship with actor-director Riteish Deshmukh.

The film marks a new chapter in Abhishek’s friendship with Riteish Deshmukh, making it the former’s first Marathi film. The recently released first look teaser of ‘Raja Shivaji’ features Abhishek Bachchan in the role of Sambhaji Shahaji Raje Bhosle. In the video asset, Abhishek can be seen donning a warrior’s ensemble, roaring across the battlefield and upholding his brotherly bond with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, promising a spectacle that goes beyond the battles.

For Abhishek Bachchan, ‘Raja Shivaji’ is more than a grand cinematic offering as it marks his first-ever Marathi film, a bold leap in his diverse filmography.

Talking about the film, he said, “It's my first ever Marathi film. Riteish, who I considered to be my brother, has been dreaming about this from the first time that I ever met him about 25 years ago in Latur. I was shooting there for a film of mine called Zameen. And Riteish was just coming into the film industry, and he came to hang out with Ajay Devgn and me, who were shooting, and that's where our friendship began. And then we've gone on to collaborate on several films”.

The actor recalled a moment when he visited Riteish Deshmukh’s residence, where the actor revealed his “dream” to go beyond acting, to direct and make a film on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

“So this is a dream he's harboured and worked on for several years. Riteish has arguably made the most ambitious Marathi film made till date. I have no doubt about the kind of director that he is, which he has already proven in his last film. He's going to do something that is going to become a cornerstone for Marathi cinema. And I'm so, so happy for him, so happy to be a part of it, be part of telling the story. And I hope everybody likes the film because I really think it's going to be a seminal moment for Marathi cinema”, he added.

Presented by Jio Studios and produced by Jyoti Deshpande and Genelia Deshmukh under the banner of Mumbai Film Company, ‘Raja Shivaji’ is set to release in cinemas on May 1, 2026, in Marathi, Hindi and Telugu.

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