Los Angeles, Feb 15 (IANS) Singer-songwriter Harry Styles has had his share of lessons when it comes to professional life. The singer has shared that he learnt "how to slow down" on his career break.

The 32-year-old singer realised the importance of being in the moment and focusing on what matters in his personal life after he took time out following his globally successful Love on Tour gigs in July 2023, reports ‘Deadline’.

Harry told ‘The Sunday Times’ magazine, "At the end of the tour, the idea of taking time out felt insane. I didn’t know if I could do it. But it was the right time for me, we’d finished the tour in July, and I was turning 30 in February. It was time for me to stop for a bit and pay some attention to other parts of my life. Italy has become really special to me over the past few years. I drove from London to Rome during COVID, in that time when you could travel. I’d spent all my years before that touring, with little gaps in between, and if I had a week off, I’d never have driven somewhere, I would have got there and back as fast as possible”.

He further mentioned, “Presented with this time, I drove there, and I thought, I’m going to enjoy doing this. When I was in Rome, the city just taught me how to slow down”.

As per ‘Deadline’, the ‘Watermelon Sugar’ hitmaker even relished sipping on a hot coffee in a cafe, something he had not done in ages.

He continued, "Italy became so important to me because I was so used to everything moving so quickly and being on the go. But then I remember going to a cafe and sitting and having a coffee and thinking, 'I don’t remember the last time I sat down and had a coffee, if I’ve ever sat down and just had a coffee’. I was suddenly learning, through my friends, that eating a meal is more than just sitting down and refuelling. I realised the pleasure in just being in the moment of what you’re doing. The Romans are the best at that, that’s their speciality. The pace they’ve taught me has been so special”.

The downtime allowed the three-time Grammy award winner to be present in his baby niece's life. Harry, whose new LP in four years, ‘Kiss All The Time’. ‘Disco, Occasionally’ drops on March 6, shared, "Also, in that time my sister (Gemma) had a baby, and at any other time in my life I would have missed a lot of that. To be there to get to know my niece as she’s growing up, it’s so obvious to me what’s real. It was really obvious that was where I wanted to be”.

Ultimately, adopting a slower pace to life has been "powerful" for the former One Direction boy band member.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, Feb 15 (IANS) Hollywood actor Jason Statham will portray himself in the upcoming film ‘Jason Statham Stole My Bike’. The upcoming action-comedy is helmed by David Leitch, who is known for ‘The Fall Guy’, ‘Deadpool 2’ and ‘Bullet Train’.

The film will star Jason “in the role of a lifetime, playing global action superstar Jason Statham”, reports ‘Female First UK’.

While the script from ‘BoJack Horseman’ and ‘School Of Rock TV’ series writer Alison Flierl is being kept under wraps, the big budget comedy will start shooting in May.

As per ‘Female First UK’, David Leitch and his wife Kelly McCormick are producing for 87 North, Statham is producing for Punch Palace Productions, John Friedberg will produce for Black Bear and Meredith Berg and Ethan Erwin are on board for Beryllium Entertainment.

While Statham, 58, is renowned for his action franchises including ‘The Meg’ and ‘Fast Furious’, he has also shown his comedy skills in ‘Spy’, ‘Snatch’, ‘Lock Stock Two Smoking Barrels’ and ‘Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre’.

‘Jason Statham Stole My Bike’ is set to make use of both sets of skills. The movie, which is being compared to 1999 movie Being John Malkovich, is currently being shopped around at the European Film Market in Berlin.

Meanwhile, Shelter director Ric Roman Waugh recently revealed he wanted to show a "different side" to Jason Statham in the new movie, in which Statham plays reclusive former government assassin Michael Mason.

Speaking with Collider, Ric Roman Waugh said, "When we did Snitch with Dwayne Johnson, that was a learning lesson for me because I'm really proud of that movie, and I think a lot of people really dug it. But again, it maybe took him a little bit further out of his wheelhouse than people wanted at that time”.

He further mentioned, "So, there's this needle that you're trying to thread, where you're trying to make sure you're protecting the commerciality of a big movie star, especially like Jason Statham, and what fans are going to expect from him. A lot of the time, what people don't see is that that's the material that he's normally going to get. You get what you're known for”.

The former stuntman added, "When I was coming out of stunts, I got everything that was bigger, faster, and more expensive”.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Feb 15 (IANS) Actress Akshara Singh has come out in support of actor-politician Pawan Singh's wife Jyoti Singh. The actress has supported Jyoti Singh’s demand of alimony.

Akshara Singh is the ex-girlfriend of Pawan Singh, and she feels that Jyoti Singh’s demands are completely valid, and the society should step in to help divorced women get the alimony with no cap.

She said, "Whenever a girl gets married, and she goes with someone, it becomes her responsibility. At the same time, it is her right to take her alimony, and she should receive it fully. Definitely, it should be given, whether she asks for Rs 10 crore, Rs 20 crore, or even Rs 100 crore, it may still not be enough”.

Jyoti Singh, the estranged wife of Bhojpuri actor-singer Pawan Singh, has formally sought alimony and financial maintenance as part of her ongoing matrimonial litigation. In her petition, Jyoti Singh has argued that she is legally entitled to maintenance under Indian matrimonial law, citing the disparity in income, social standing, and earning capacity between the two parties.

As per the court filings reported in the media, Jyoti Singh has stated that she does not have an independent source of income sufficient to maintain a lifestyle comparable to that of her husband. She has alleged emotional distress, marital discord, and abandonment, contending that the marriage broke down due to circumstances beyond her control.

On these grounds, she has requested interim and permanent alimony to cover basic living expenses, legal costs, and future security. The matter has been contested by Pawan Singh, who has challenged the claims and sought legal relief of his own. The case has gone through multiple hearings, with the court examining financial disclosures, marriage records, and legal submissions from both sides.

As with most matrimonial disputes, the final determination of alimony will depend on judicial assessment of income, liabilities, and evidence presented. The case remains sub judice, and no final order has conclusively settled the alimony issue to date.

--IANS

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Imphal, Feb 15 (IANS) Security forces on Saturday arrested six hardcore militants, including two women cadres belonging to different insurgent outfits, from various districts of Manipur, police said.

A police official said the arrested militants are associated with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and its political wing, the Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF), the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP), and the People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK).

According to the official, security forces arrested two active women cadres of the PLA from the India-Myanmar border area between Sunrise Ground and Gate No. 2 at Moreh in Tengnoupal district.

The two women militants are residents of the Bishnupur district and Imphal West district, respectively.

During the operations, security forces also recovered arms and ammunition from the possession of the arrested extremists, the official said.

In a separate operation, Manipur Police arrested two individuals involved in a series of mobile phone thefts, cyber frauds, and related crimes across the Senapati and Imphal West districts.

Meanwhile, security forces recovered an improvised explosive device (IED) -- cylindrical in shape, fitted with a pressure mechanism and containing approximately 10 kg of explosives — from the stretch between Sijang (a Kuki village) and Sanamahi Temple (a Meitei place of worship), in the vicinity of a Naga village under Churachandpur district.

The IED was safely defused and destroyed by the Bomb Disposal Team in the presence of local leaders and the Churachandpur district police.

The security forces, comprising central and state agencies, have intensified crackdowns against militants, with extensive search operations and area domination drives underway in fringe, mixed-populated, and vulnerable areas across various districts of the state.

A total of 113 nakas and checkpoints have been set up across Manipur in both valley and hill districts to curb the movement of illegal elements and suspicious vehicles.

Security forces are also providing escorts to vehicles, including trucks carrying essential commodities, along the Imphal–Jiribam National Highway (NH-37).

Strict security arrangements and convoy protection continue in sensitive stretches to ensure the safe movement of traffic.

The Manipur Police have urged the public not to believe rumours or unverified content circulating on social media and cautioned against fake videos and audio clips.

“The authenticity of any circulating video or audio can be verified through the Central Control Room. Uploading or sharing fake or misleading content on social media will invite legal action,” a police statement warned.

--IANS

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Ahmedabad, Feb 15 (IANS) New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner blamed the loss of three crucial wickets in the Power-play by his team while batting first and their inability in taking more than one wicket with the ball in the first six overs in the eased conditions as the reason for their defeat to South Africa in a crucial Group D match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 in Ahmedabad on Saturday.

Asked to bat first, New Zealand lost Tim Seifert (13), Finn Allen (31), and Rachin Ravindra (13) as they ended the Power-play with 58/3. They were 64/4 in the seventh over, and though they recovered thanks to a 74-run partnership between Mark Chapman (48) and Daryl Mitchell (32), they lost three quick wickets again to end with a modest total of 175/7 in 20 overs. At one juncture, they looked like they would go past 200, but Marco Jansen's 4-40 haul helped South Africa fight back.

"Wickets in the Power-play are always key. Probably a bit below par (today), but it was a little sticky too. Different grounds, so you need to adapt. We pride ourselves on that. Communication is key between batters and bowlers," said Santner after their seven-wicket defeat.

Santner said his team was put under pressure by the South Africans bowlers, and they tried to find ways out of that with aggressive batting and taking wickets. However, that did not prove enough as Aiden Markram hammered anunbeaten 86 off 44 balls to help the Proteas to a comfortable win.

"We were put under pressure in the powerplay, so finding ways to get out of overs, still staying aggressive and taking wickets. We had a good series against India. Any time you can play India in these conditions (leading up to a World Cup), it is good prep. Came up against a good team tonight," said the spin-bowling all-rounder.

New Zealand will now be playing a smaller team like Canada, which they rarely encounter in ICC events, in their next match. Santner said they will do a lot of video scouting to know more about their opponents.

"That is a challenge. We have played with and against them (South Africa) a lot. We will do a lot of video scouting about Canada. No easy games in the tournament and we know that will be the case in a couple of days' time," said Santner.

New Zealand have to win that match, their last in Group D, to inch closer to securing a spot in the Super 8 stage.

--IANS

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Bengaluru, Feb 14 (IANS) A two-day Chintan Shivir of the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Ministry of Finance, was held in Coorg, Karnataka, on February 13 and 14, 2026.

The primary objective of the Chintan Shivir was to encourage fresh perspectives and generate creative ideas towards achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047, and to define the role of financial institutions in supporting this vision.

Experts from public policy and practitioners from various fields of finance presented their views and ideas, and reflected on the department’s role in fostering collaborative and innovative solutions to public policy challenges in the banking and financial sectors.

The event witnessed active participation from stakeholders, with detailed discussions focusing on the strategic shifts required in banking and financial services to align with the objectives of Viksit Bharat.

In his address, M. Nagaraju, Secretary, Department of Financial Services, stressed the need to enhance the credit-to-GDP ratio, make financial institutions more agile, and explore new avenues of financing at scale in line with the goals of Viksit Bharat.

He said that the ideas generated during the sessions would help shape a shared vision and action plan for the Department and its financial institutions.

In his address, K.P. Krishnan, former Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, emphasised the need for more financial hubs such as GIFT City, the development of a robust bond market, and the reduction of intermediation costs.

Amitabh Kant, former CEO of NITI Aayog, highlighted the important role of banks in financing MSMEs and stressed the need for initiatives such as Jan Vyapar, on the lines of Jan Aadhaar, as well as the development of rule-based instruments to further reduce the cost of doing business.

Other experts, panellists, and participants also held discussions on a range of topics, including banking and cyber security, financial inclusion, and ensuring a fully insured and pension-covered society by 2047.

Several ideas emerged during the discussions, including replicating the concept of Shadow CEO, building autonomous organisations, strengthening digital trust, exploring innovative ways to increase investment, developing new insurance and pension products, enhancing financial literacy, and improving the resilience of the financial system in a rapidly changing global environment.

The Chintan Shivir 2026 reaffirmed that the future of Indian financial institutions will be shaped by ambitious reforms and strategic transformation, with public sector banks and public sector financial institutions playing a key role in advancing national priorities and aspiring to achieve global standards.

--IANS

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Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh), Feb 14 (IANS) Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Saturday called upon the youth of the state to take the lead in building a “Viksit Arunachal” by 2047, stressing the importance of informed participation, awareness of public policies, cultural pride, and economic self-reliance.

Addressing the ‘YuvaSoch, Naya Arunachal’ interactive programme organised by the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), Arunachal Pradesh State unit, at Tawang, the Chief Minister urged young people to move beyond rhetoric and actively engage with government policies and developmental initiatives to bring about meaningful social transformation.

Khandu said the platform had enabled constructive deliberations on a wide range of issues concerning the future of Arunachal Pradesh.

Highlighting the significance of February 14, the Chief Minister said the day holds special importance for Tawang and the state as it marks 75 years since Major Ralengnao “Bob” Khathing hoisted the national tricolour in Tawang in 1951, formally integrating the region with India.

Recalling the historic expedition, Khandu described Major Khathing as a multi-faceted personality -- a teacher, soldier, administrator, and diplomat -- and termed his mission to Tawang as a defining moment in the consolidation of India’s northeastern frontier.

He noted that the expedition was undertaken in accordance with the vision of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, following the 1914 Simla Agreement, which led to the delineation of the McMahon Line. “Without firing a single bullet, Major Bob Khathing ensured the peaceful integration of Tawang. Unfortunately, his immense contribution remained largely absent from mainstream history for decades,” Khandu said.

He recalled that during the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav in 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had urged states to identify and honour unsung heroes. In response, Arunachal Pradesh constituted a committee to research and document local freedom fighters and historical figures, thereby bringing long-forgotten contributions to public knowledge.

The Chief Minister urged the youth to study the history and culture of their respective tribes and communities, cautioning that a society disconnected from its roots risks losing its identity.

Khandu emphasised that the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047” and “Viksit Arunachal 2047” can only be realised if the youth move in the right direction, stressing the importance of continuous learning even after completing formal education.

“Being a graduate or post-graduate is not enough. If you are unaware of government policies and programmes, you cannot effectively serve society,” he said, adding that BJYM workers must act as a bridge between the government and the people.

Highlighting the Seva Aapke Dwar (service at the doorstep) initiative launched in 2017 to bridge the gap between the administration and citizens, the Chief Minister said that over 15 lakh beneficiaries have availed benefits through the programme so far. He urged youth organisations to actively participate in such outreach initiatives.

Reiterating the guiding principles of “Nation First, Party Second, Self Last” and “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,” Khandu called for a strong focus on Antyodaya -- uplifting the poorest individual through effective implementation of government schemes.

Reflecting on developments since 2014, he said the Northeast has received unprecedented attention at the national level, citing frequent visits by Union Ministers to remote districts of Arunachal Pradesh and sustained focus on the region in successive Union Budgets.

He described the recent Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman as historic and lauded its emphasis on youth aspirations, farmers, and business communities. He also welcomed provisions for the development of Buddhist heritage sites, highlighting Arunachal Pradesh’s unique position as a state where both Mahayana and Theravada traditions coexist.

On the economic front, Khandu described hydropower as Arunachal Pradesh’s “lowest hanging fruit,” stating that nearly 19,000 MW of projects are currently at various stages of development against a potential exceeding 50,000 MW.

He said the 2,000 MW Lower Subansiri project is nearing completion, while the Dibang Multipurpose Project and the 3,097 MW Etalin project are progressing steadily.

The Chief Minister said the state has secured 12 per cent free power and up to 26 per cent equity participation in hydropower projects, which would significantly enhance revenue generation in the coming years.

He also spoke about the mining sector, noting that coal blocks have been auctioned and exploration of minerals such as graphite and vanadium is underway, which would further strengthen the state’s economy.

“Arunachal must stand on its own feet. Being a special category state should not be a matter of pride but a reminder that we must become self-reliant,” he remarked.

Highlighting the role of women in the state’s socio-economic transformation, Khandu said over 1.5 lakh women are now associated with Self Help Groups across Arunachal Pradesh, contributing to rural economic growth.

He also referred to the Vibrant Villages Programme being implemented in border areas, stating that improved infrastructure, connectivity, and livelihood initiatives are transforming remote villages through coordinated efforts of district administrations, the Army, and central forces.

Welcoming the implementation of the Women’s Reservation provision under the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam from 2029, the Chief Minister urged young women to actively participate in leadership and policy-making.

He underscored the importance of preserving indigenous languages, traditions, and attire, encouraging the youth to promote local identity and be “vocal for local.” The Chief Minister announced plans to strengthen research and preservation of tribal heritage through institutional initiatives.

--IANS

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Gandhinagar, Feb 14 (IANS) The Gujarat Legislative Assembly has been transformed into a showcase of the state’s traditional arts ahead of the Budget Session beginning on February 16, with artisans from across the state commissioned to create and install works within the Assembly complex.

The initiative, undertaken in coordination with the state-run Gujarat State Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation Ltd (Garvi Gurjari), has introduced three prominent art forms into the premises: mud mirror work from Kutch, Warli art from Chhota Udepur and Ahmedabad’s Mata ni Pachedi, a traditional Kalamkari style of painting.

The artworks now adorn various walls and sections of the complex and will be visible to legislators, officials and visitors attending the session.

Officials said the effort is aimed at presenting Gujarat’s cultural heritage within a key public institution that represents the people of the state.

The project was initiated under the guidance of Assembly Speaker Shankar Chaudhary, in line with the broader emphasis on combining development with preservation of heritage articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The state government under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has continued to promote handicrafts and handloom sectors through institutional support.

Garvi Gurjari facilitated the selection process by identifying skilled artisans, reviewing presentations of their work and assessing craftsmanship before finalising the installations.

According to officials associated with the corporation, the intention was to ensure that the chosen art forms reflect both the diversity and historical continuity of Gujarat’s folk traditions.

Among the featured works is Warli art depicting the evolution of governance from ancient royal assemblies to the modern legislature, alongside visual representations of the transition from rural to urban development.

The Warli installation has been created by Archana Rathwa, an artisan from Chhota Udepur who has been associated with Garvi Gurjari for eight years and received a state award in 2022.

She said the opportunity to contribute to a project at the Assembly was a significant professional milestone. The mud mirror work, traditionally seen in the circular bhunga houses of Kutch and made using Multani clay and pieces of coloured glass, has been executed by artisan Girish Parmar.

He has previously worked on public installations and represented Gujarat in the Republic Day tableau parade on January 26. Parmar said exhibiting the craft in the Assembly complex, visited by people from across the country, was a matter of pride.

The Mata ni Pachedi installation has been undertaken by the Chitara family of Ahmedabad, known for preserving the centuries-old Kalamkari tradition associated with temple backdrops dedicated to the goddess.

National award-winning artist Chandrakantbhai Chitara and his daughter Mittal Chitara were involved in the project. Mittal Chitara said the response from visitors observing the work in progress had been encouraging.

With these installations in place, the Assembly complex now functions not only as the administrative centre of the state legislature but also as a venue highlighting Gujarat’s living craft traditions.

Officials said the initiative provides artisans with opportunities to participate in high-profile public projects while drawing attention to the state’s cultural legacy during a major legislative session.

--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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Jaipur, Feb 13 (IANS) In a significant development in the mysterious death of Sadhvi Prem Baisa, the State Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) has submitted its viscera examination report to the police, ruling out poisoning or any unnatural cause of death.

The report, received late Thursday night, has brought a major twist to the case that had sparked widespread speculation and controversy.

According to sources, the FSL analysis found no traces of poison or toxic substances in Sadhvi Prem Baisa's body. This has dismissed earlier suspicions of foul play or forced poisoning.

However, the final cause of death will be determined by the medical board after a detailed review of the forensic findings. Investigators revealed that Sadhvi Prem Baisa had been suffering from asthma and had developed severe breathing difficulties after catching a cold on January 28.

As her condition worsened, she contacted a male nurse, Devi Singh, who administered Dexona and Dynapar injections.

Doctors at Mahatma Gandhi Hospital will now analyse whether these medications or underlying health conditions contributed to her death.

Sadhvi Prem Baisa fell seriously ill at the Aarti Nagar Ashram in Pal village under Boranada police station limits on January 28.

She was taken to a private hospital on Pal Road but was declared dead on arrival.

Following a complaint filed by her father, Biramnath, the police registered a case and conducted a post-mortem examination on January 29 through a medical board. Her viscera samples were sent to the FSL on February 2, and the forensic investigation was completed within 11 days.

During the investigation, compounder Devi Singh stated that the injections were administered based on a prescription allegedly given by a private hospital doctor.

Police are now examining who prescribed the injections and whether proper medical protocols were followed.

While the FSL report has ruled out poisoning, authorities say the case is still under investigation, and all aspects, including medical treatment, circumstances at the ashram, and statements of witnesses, are being scrutinised.

Officials said more clarity will emerge after the medical board submits its final opinion.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Feb 15 (IANS) Actress Akshara Singh has come out in support of actor-politician Pawan Singh's wife Jyoti Singh. The actress has supported Jyoti Singh’s demand of alimony.

Akshara Singh is the ex-girlfriend of Pawan Singh, and she feels that Jyoti Singh’s demands are completely valid, and the society should step in to help divorced women get the alimony with no cap.

She said, "Whenever a girl gets married, and she goes with someone, it becomes her responsibility. At the same time, it is her right to take her alimony, and she should receive it fully. Definitely, it should be given, whether she asks for Rs 10 crore, Rs 20 crore, or even Rs 100 crore, it may still not be enough”.

Jyoti Singh, the estranged wife of Bhojpuri actor-singer Pawan Singh, has formally sought alimony and financial maintenance as part of her ongoing matrimonial litigation. In her petition, Jyoti Singh has argued that she is legally entitled to maintenance under Indian matrimonial law, citing the disparity in income, social standing, and earning capacity between the two parties.

As per the court filings reported in the media, Jyoti Singh has stated that she does not have an independent source of income sufficient to maintain a lifestyle comparable to that of her husband. She has alleged emotional distress, marital discord, and abandonment, contending that the marriage broke down due to circumstances beyond her control.

On these grounds, she has requested interim and permanent alimony to cover basic living expenses, legal costs, and future security. The matter has been contested by Pawan Singh, who has challenged the claims and sought legal relief of his own. The case has gone through multiple hearings, with the court examining financial disclosures, marriage records, and legal submissions from both sides.

As with most matrimonial disputes, the final determination of alimony will depend on judicial assessment of income, liabilities, and evidence presented. The case remains sub judice, and no final order has conclusively settled the alimony issue to date.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, Feb 14 (IANS) Hollywood actress Joey King has a pretty unique process of approaching make-up. The actress has shared that she approaches her beauty routine from the inside out.

The actress, 26, says her makeup vibe is “constantly changing every single day,” but the one thing it stems from is how she wants to feel, reports ‘People’ magazine.

She told ‘People’, “How I view beauty lately is, it feels much more free for me. Five, six years ago, I was like, ‘I need to put makeup on every single day, I need to have a full face on’, and now I have a little bit more of a healthy relationship with it”.

For the actress, that means coming from a place of, "What do I feel like doing today (with my makeup)? What is going to make me happy today? And do I really feel like taking my makeup off tonight? No, I'm not going to put any on tonight. So, now I'm just kind of feeling out what I want to feel inside every day instead of just following a routine that I think I should follow by putting on tons of makeup every day”.

As per ‘People’, when it comes to what looks she likes now, King’s inspiration spans the decades, but she’s definitely loving that 2016 glam has made a comeback, even if she favors a more effortless approach.

“Then, we were really getting those eyebrows thick and that foundation heavy. I really loved that era. But I also really love where we've wound up now, with like a little bit more of that natural look, the glossy skin”, she shared.

She appreciates that she can be “spontaneous” and respond to how she feels in the moment. “Some days I wake up and I have lots of errands to run, and I don't feel like putting any makeup on my skin, so I just do my skincare routine and then I'm out the door. And then some days I'm like, ‘I want a f****** glittery eyeshadow’”, she added.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Feb 14 (IANS) Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, who is set to join forces with the queen of television, Ektaa Kapoor for the upcoming film ‘Heer Ranjha’, has said that the film speaks the love language of this generation while staying rooted in something eternal.

Imtiaz Ali and Ektaa Kapoor are reuniting after the cult success of ‘Laila Majnu’. ‘Heer Ranjha’ marks the second chapter of the ‘Laila Majnu’ franchise, carrying forward its love legend and deep-rooted connection with audiences.

Talking about the film, Imtiaz Ali shared, “‘Heer Ranjha’ has its own world and rhythm, it speaks the love language of this generation while staying rooted in something eternal. Collaborating with Ektaa again feels like a natural continuation of a shared emotional language”.,

The film is rooted in classic romance yet shaped for today’s time. It reimagines love for a new generation, promising a poetic and emotionally immersive cinematic experience. Filming for Heer Ranjha will commence soon, with the film set to be directed by Sajid Ali.

Speaking about the film, Ektaa Kapoor said, “Imtiaz and Sajid have the rare ability to capture love with honesty and depth. While ‘Laila Majnu’ found its audience over time, and became a cult classic! Heer Ranjha is a love story that aims to transcend time and emotions. We hope to touch audiences across the Indian diaspora and beyond, with our story telling”.

‘Laila Majnu’, which didn’t find its audience in the theatres initially, emerged as a cult hit during its re-release.

Presented by Imtiaz Ali, directed by Sajid Ali and produced by Shobha Kapoor, Ekta Kapoor and Preety Ali (Pi Films Pvt Ltd), ‘Heer Ranjha’ builds on an iconic romantic franchise, making this Valentine’s Day announcement a special moment for fans of timeless love stories.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Feb 14 (IANS) Music composer Uttam Singh, who is known for his work on ‘Gadar’, has shared why the new music isn’t working.

The music composer spoke with IANS, and shared that the music of the current era lacks melody, which is the foundation to any good song.

He told IANS, “The old music is still going on. Today, no matter how big films are getting hit, old songs are being taken. So, first of all, this is a very wrong thing. That you are making films with old songs because new songs are being created. Why are they not being said? Because there is no depth. Because there is no melody, because there is no music, because there are no lyrics. That's why those songs come, get danced and go”.

He further mentioned, “The old music that has already been hit, here I will definitely say that the songs that have been used in ‘Gadar 2’, the songs are the same. A song is land. It is difficult to make land.The rest of the land, whether you make a plant or a bungalow, or make a field, it is up to you. But the song is the land. Creating the land is a very big thing”.

Earlier, he shared how the industry treated the late singing legend, as he said, “I have always seen Lata ji as Goddess Saraswati. We worship Saraswati because we belong to the arts. And living Saraswati was only and only Lata ji. I have worked with her for almost 40 years since I started playing around 1965-1966. I kept working with her”.

“And I have arranged many songs with her. Here I would like to tell you one thing, that there was a time, when producers, directors, music directors, writers, cameramen, actresses, actors, everyone had a wish that Lata ji should sing in our film”, he added.

--IANS

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