Samarkand, Sep 25 (IANS) Defending champions India lost an opportunity to surge into the top spot as they were held 2-2 by Azerbaijan in the eighth round of the 46th FIDE Chess Olympiad in Samarkand on Thursday. In the women's section, India's B Savitha Shri continued her onward march by scoring a seventh successive win as India were held 2-2 by Kazakhstan.

The men's team remained in joint second position in the Open section with 13 match points, even as table-toppers Uzbekistan (14 match points) were stunned by Germany and are now sharing the top spot with the hosts.

R. Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, D. Gukesh and Vidit Santosh Gujrathi, who returned to the team to replace Nihal Sarin, were all held to a draw by their opponents for a 2-2 result with Azerbaijan.

Things turned topsy-turvy at the top with Germany upsetting Uzbekistan 2.5-1.5 thanks to wins by Frederik Svane and Rasmus Svane over Nodirbek Yakubboev and Shamsiddin Vokhidov, respectively.

The highlight for Indian fans in the 2-2 draw was the Gukesh versus Muradli Mahammad on the third board, in which the reigning World Classical Champion missed a chance to close out the game.

Playing white pieces in a Sicilian Najdorf game, Gukesh went for an ambitious queen move, but Muradli Mahammad came up with an accurate reply and responded with some crafty queen moves of his own. In a queenless endgame, Muradli locked down the centre and activated his king as Gukesh tried some aggressive moves to create an attack by making space on the queenside.

The two players tried their best under severe time pressure before agreeing to a draw in 56 moves, with Muradli putting up a stout defence.

On the other boards, Praggnanandhaa was held by the experienced Shakhriyar Mamedyarov; Arjun Erigaisi was held by Aydin Suleymanli with white pieces, while Vidit Santosh Gujrathi drew with Rauf Mamedov.

After the eighth round, Uzbekistan and Germany share the top spot with 14 match points, with eight teams including India, China, Netherlands and the USA in the joint second spot with 13 points.

In the women's section, defending champions India were held to a 2-2 draw by Kazakhstan as they remained in joint-second spot.

On the top board, Koneru Humpy was held to a draw by Bibisara Assaubayeva, as did Divya Deshmukh against Meruert Kamalidenova, both playing with black pieces.

Savitha Shri won her game against Elnaz Kaliakhmet and saved India's day after Vaishali Rameshbabu had lost to Nurman Alua as the defending champions missed an opportunity to jump into the lead.

The win meant Savitha Shri has now won seven out of seven games for an astronomical rating performance of 2955.

In the top-table clash, hosts Uzbekistan defeated Netherlands 3-1; China remained on top of the standings with a 2.5-1.5 win over Georgia, while Mongolia handed Bulgaria a 2.5-1.5 win.

--IANS

bsk/

Agartala, Sep 25 (IANS) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has said that the state government is setting up Arogya Mandirs across the state to provide basic medical services to people promptly, while efforts are also being made to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in rural and urban areas.

After inaugurating a newly constructed polyclinic at Arundhutinagar, on the outskirts of Agartala, the Chief Minister said on Thursday that already 1,110 Arogya Mandirs have been set up across the state.

Along with this, improved medical infrastructure is being developed in various district hospitals and referral hospitals, he added.

Chief Minister Saha, who also holds the Health and Family Welfare portfolio, inaugurated five more urban Arogya Mandirs virtually on Thursday.

The Chief Minister virtually inaugurated Urban Arogya Mandirs at Radhanagar, Jagaharimura, Ujan Abhaynagar, Dhaleshwar and Ramakrishna Shivalaya Ashram, all in West Tripura district.

The 12-room urban polyclinic at Arundhutinagar was constructed at a cost of Rs 2.10 crore.

After the inauguration, the Chief Minister visited the newly constructed polyclinic.

Speaking on the occasion, CM Saha said the state government has accorded the highest priority to the development of health infrastructure and improving medical services for the people.

"There has been a huge improvement in the infrastructure of various hospitals. As a result, the number of patients referred from the state to outside the state has reduced by 80 per cent. In 2023, the number of referred patients was 555, while in 2026, the number of patients referred so far is 161. The state government is trying to ensure that patients from the state do not have to go outside the state for better treatment," he added.

The Chief Minister said that satellite health centres established in the hilly areas of the state have been playing an important role in providing healthcare services to people living in remote areas.

"In the rural hospitals of the state, doctors, health workers and ASHA workers are playing a significant role in providing medical services to the people," he added.

CM Saha said that the telemedicine system has also played an effective role in providing better treatment and healthcare services in the state.

To further strengthen the system, a state-of-the-art telemedicine studio will be set up at the GBP Hospital, he added.

"Along with the telemedicine system, the e-Sanjivani system is also playing an effective role," the Chief Minister said.

He added that the state government is working on the path shown by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and has developed an Integrated Health Management System (IHMS) to further improve medical management in the state.

"Initiatives have also been taken to develop the state as a tourism health hub by further improving the state's tourism and health infrastructure," CM Saha said.

Rajya Sabha Member Rajib Bhattacharya, Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor and MLA Dipak Majumdar, State Director of National Health Mission Saju Wahid A, West Tripura District Magistrate Vishal Kumar, Director of Health Department Debashree Debbarma and others were present on the occasion.

--IANS

sc/khz

United Nations, Sep 25 (IANS) Palestine President Mahmoud Abbas on Thursday denounced what he termed a “genocidal war” in Gaza by Israel, while reaffirming his commitment to a two-state solution recognising Israel’s right to exist in peace.

He said Palestinians seek “a democratic state that respects the rule of law and human rights, a non-militarised state that lives in security and peace alongside the state of Israel”.

Abbas accused Israel of unleashing “a genocidal war that has created an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe” in Gaza, where a massive attack has killed about 70,000 people in response to the October 7, 2023 Hamas assault on Israel that left over 1,000 dead.

He alleged that Israel was attempting to force Palestinians out of the West Bank through “a malicious colonial scheme”, but declared firmly: “We will not leave our homeland.”

Denied a US visa to attend in person, Abbas addressed the UN General Assembly via video, his speech projected on two giant screens before world leaders.

He spoke hours before Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was scheduled to address the Assembly. Outside, rival groups of demonstrators expressed support for Israel or condemned it, amid tight security.

Abbas welcomed US President Donald Trump’s initiative to set up the Board of Peace with several Muslim countries to rebuild Gaza after disarming Hamas and securing Israel’s withdrawal. “Regretfully, we have not seen any of this materialise on the ground,” he said.

He denounced terrorism and anti-Semitism, saying: “We hate it.” He urged the international community to stand steadfast behind the two-state solution, warning that Israel’s actions were undermining it.

“The danger is no longer limited to undermining the two-state solution and preventing the realisation of the Palestinian state,” Abbas said, “but it has now come to threaten the very life and existence of the Palestinian people on their homeland.”

--IANS

al/dan

Kohima, Sep 25 (IANS) Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has said that the state has immense potential in agriculture, horticulture and other sectors, stressing the need to transform this potential into economic opportunities through enterprise, investment, market development and exports, particularly to generate employment opportunities for the people.

Chief Minister Rio on Thursday launched the Chief Minister's Fellowship Programme, Nagaland (CMFPN) and the NEDFi-TEDF Research Project, "Strategic Interventions for Endogenous Development through Export Promotion of Niche Agricultural Products, Advancement in the Creative Economy, and Diversification of Investment in Nagaland".

Speaking at the programme, the Chief Minister said the two initiatives share a common purpose of identifying Nagaland's strengths and capacities, understanding emerging opportunities and challenges, and preparing for the future.

He added that Nagaland has immense potential in agriculture and horticulture, tourism, music, arts, culture, sports and several emerging sectors.

Chief Minister Rio emphasised the need to convert this potential into economic opportunities through enterprise, investment, markets and exports, particularly to create employment opportunities for the people.

He welcomed the focus on the creative economy in the research, noting that Nagaland has artists, musicians, designers, sportspersons, entrepreneurs and young innovators with immense talent.

The Chief Minister noted that the creative economy is not only about culture and entertainment, but also about livelihoods, enterprise, tourism, technology and employment.

He said the state's efforts to create, brand and promote Nagaland, while using its culture and creativity as instruments of economic growth, were important.

Culture can serve as a bridge between Nagaland's local identity and national and global platforms, he added.

On the Chief Minister's Fellowship Programme, CM Rio described it as an investment in human resources and in developing young people who can contribute to Nagaland in the years to come.

Addressing the 18 selected fellows, the Chief Minister encouraged them to make use of the opportunity to gain meaningful exposure and interact with policymakers, administrators, professionals and development experts.

He said the state's aim was to build a more resilient, innovative and investment-ready Nagaland where resources, people and ideas create opportunities, entrepreneurship and innovation are supported, and private enterprise works alongside public investment.

He also emphasised the need for partnerships with private and educational institutions, civil society, development organisations and partners from across India and the world, while remaining rooted in Nagaland's identity, values and traditions.

Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman, Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), Abu Metha, said IDAN, in partnership with NEDFi, had undertaken an extensive grassroots study covering all 17 districts, nearly 300 villages and more than 8,000 inputs.

The project brought together grassroots perspectives, data and insights from experts, academics, development practitioners, government officials and other stakeholders.

He said the research identified Nagaland's strengths in agriculture, horticulture, textiles, human capital and the creative economy, while also highlighting gaps in value addition, market linkages and promotion.

Metha highlighted the study on Nagaland's creative economy, covering music, art, sports, tourism, textiles, handicrafts, handlooms and events.

--IANS

sc/khz

Bhopal, Sep 24 (IANS) A suspected cyber fraud targeting a private university was foiled in Bhopal after police swiftly recovered the WhatsApp account of an accountant who was allegedly tricked into initiating a Rs 1.9-crore transaction, police said on Thursday.

The incident was reported when Rishabh Bhargava, an accountant at Sage University, received a WhatsApp message at around 2:30 p.m. purportedly from the university's Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Sanjeev Agrawal.

According to the police, the message instructed Bhargava to urgently transfer Rs 1.9 crore to a bank account in the name of Bound Builders OPC Private Limited.

Bhargava replied to the message with "Yes Sir" and added the bank account as a beneficiary in the university's account.

He subsequently noticed that his WhatsApp account appeared to be operating without his control, raising suspicion that it had been compromised.

He immediately contacted Katara Hills police, following which the police cyber team initiated efforts to recover the account and prevent the proposed transaction.

"Rishabh received a WhatsApp message from a number claiming to belong to the university's CMD and was asked to make a payment of Rs 1.9 crore. He became suspicious after noticing unusual activity on his WhatsApp account and immediately approached the police," Katara Hills Station House Officer (SHO) Sunil Dube told IANS.

Police lodged a complaint with the WhatsApp support team and generated a ticket for recovery of the compromised account.

The applicant's email account was also used to contact the support team.

The WhatsApp account was restored shortly afterwards, allowing Bhargava to regain control and resume sending and receiving messages and calls.

Bhargava then contacted his senior colleagues at the university and learnt that Agrawal had not sent any message asking him to make the payment.

"The timely response helped prevent the Rs 1.9-crore cyber fraud. People should independently verify any request for large financial transactions received through WhatsApp or other messaging platforms before acting on it," SHO Dube said.

The police action was taken under the supervision of DCP Zone-2 Vikas Kumar Lawania and Additional DCP Zone-2 Mini Tiwari, while ACP Baghsewania Umrao Singh oversaw the operation.

Constables Vipin Singh Rajawat and Jitendra Singh Dangi, who handle cyber-related work at Katara Hills police station, played a key role in recovering the compromised account.

SHO Dube also said that police are investigating the identity of the persons who allegedly impersonated the university's CMD and attempted to facilitate the transaction.

--IANS

pd/khz

Mumbai, Sep 24 (IANS) Former cricketer Virender Sehwag, who is set to host the upcoming season of the streaming reality show ‘Rise & Fall’, has spoken up on his personal favourite innings.

He spoke with IANS during the promotions of the show at a 5-star property in the city, and said that while the world remembers his explosive triple century in Multan, for him, his best is his 1st Test cricket innings which he played against South Africa in November 2001.

He told IANS, “The triple century in Multan, 2004 is loved by many but if I talk about myself, my best innings was my first Test cricket. I played a lot of one day games earlier. Nobody thought I could be a test player. I got the opportunity, and I proved to everyone that I can be a Test cricketer”.

He knocked 105 runs from 173 balls in the 1st innings, and scored 31 runs from 36 balls. India scored 379 in the first innings, with Sehwag's 105 coming alongside Sachin Tendulkar's 155. South Africa replied with 563, before India were dismissed for 237 in the second innings. South Africa won by 9 wickets.

Virender Sehwag became the 3rd Indian to score a Test century on debut, and he did it against a formidable bowling attack of South Africa.

Elsewhere during the conversation, he was also asked about the title of Multan ka Sultan after he scored historic 309 against Pakistan in 2004.

He said, “I don't know who gave this title. I don't know who gave this title but whoever gave this title must be a media person”.

Sehwag was part of a 336-run third-wicket partnership with Sachin Tendulkar. He was eventually dismissed at 509 for 3, having made 309. Tendulkar remained unbeaten on 194 when India declared

Pakistan made 407 in their first innings and 216 in the second, giving India victory by an innings and 52 runs. Sehwag was named Player of the Match.

--IANS

aa/

Bengaluru, Sep 24 (IANS) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs on Thursday staged a walkout from the Karnataka Assembly in protest against the state government's handling of drought relief, with Leader of Opposition (LoP) R. Ashoka accusing the Congress government of failing farmers by providing only Rs 2,500 in assistance.

Speaking to reporters after walking out of the House, Ashoka said the state government had convened a three-day special session to discuss the severe drought situation but had ultimately failed to provide adequate compensation to farmers who had lost their crops.

"The Congress government should be ashamed of claiming that it has wiped farmers' tears by giving them Rs 2,500. There is money to send to the party high command, but no money to give farmers," the LoP alleged.

He said that the BJP had demanded compensation of Rs 50,000 per acre for farmers affected by drought, but the state government had instead announced Rs 2,500 per family.

"We (BJP) had expected that the state government would announce special compensation that would be recorded in history. But after three days of discussion, farmers got only Rs 2,500. This amounts to mocking farmers and rubbing salt into their wounds," Ashoka added.

He asked how the state government could claim to have addressed farmers' problems when cultivation of one acre itself costs between Rs 20,000 and Rs 30,000, including seeds, ploughing, labour, weeding and irrigation.

"Thousands of rupees are spent on seeds. When ploughing, labour and water costs are added, the expenditure runs into tens of thousands of rupees. While Rs 2,000 is being given under Gruha Lakshmi scheme, farmers are being given Rs 2,500. A person can earn more than this by doing daily wage work. Is this compensation to farmers or an insult to them?" he asked.

Ashoka said the number of drought-hit taluks in Karnataka had risen to 177 and that more taluks could be added to the list.

He demanded that the state government provide at least Rs 25,000 per acre even if it was unwilling to meet the BJP's demand for Rs 50,000.

"Farmers are now unable to even go to their fields. There is no fodder for cattle, forcing them towards forests. Farmers' children are leaving villages in search of employment. Despite all this, the state government is not seeing the suffering of farmers," he said.

Ashoka appealed to the Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to provide greater assistance to farmers and said the state government should stand with them during the crisis.

"Farmers are not people who beg. They are the food providers of this country and people who earn through their hard work. Giving them Rs 2,500 and projecting it as a major achievement is an insult to their self-respect," he said.

He also criticised the state government over what he alleged was the availability of funds for political purposes while adequate funds were not being provided for drought relief.

"There is no money to give farmers, but there is no shortage of money for politics," Ashoka alleged.

Referring to the BJP's participation in the special session, the LoP said that party legislators had effectively raised farmers' issues in the House.

"There is no first prize, no second prize, no third prize and not even a consolation prize. After holding a three-day special Assembly session, farmers have been given Rs 2,500. This is not a special session; it is a special insult to the expectations of farmers," he added.

Ashoka said the BJP would continue its agitation until farmers received adequate relief and would take the issue before the "people's court".

"We will take the farmers' issue to the people and seek justice. The BJP will not remain silent until justice is done to farmers. We will place before the people whether this (Congress) government is pro-farmer or anti-farmer," he added.

On the Kasturirangan report, Ashoka said the BJP would stand with the state government in protecting Karnataka's interests.

"On the implementation of the Kasturirangan report, we (BJP) will stand with the state government in the interest of Karnataka. But on drought relief, the state government cannot escape its responsibility. At least the compensation given by the previous BJP government should be provided," he added.

Ashoka said that farmers would remember how the state government had responded to their distress.

"What will the state government tell farmers today? That it held a three-day special session and gave them Rs 2,500? The value of farmers' tears is not Rs 2,500. Justice must be done to their lives. This fight will not end here," he warned.

--IANS

mka/khz

Panaji, Sep 24 (IANS) The office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Goa, on Thursday said it processed 97 cases not included in the final roll published in February 2026 through house-to-house visits by Booth Level Officers (BLOs) to complete Form 6.

In a press statement also posted on its official X handle, the CEO said: “The 97 cases not included in the Final Roll published in February 2026 were separately processed through house-to-house visits by BLOs for completion of Form 6. Many have since been enrolled, while the remaining cases are being processed. It is reiterated that no eligible elector will be left behind.”

The statement followed an investigation by The Indian Express, which reported that 97 voters in Goa flagged for “logical discrepancies” during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls were examined by local Electoral Registration Officers (EROs). After document scrutiny, as directed by the Supreme Court, they found them eligible and cleared them for inclusion in the final roll.

In a press statement issued on Wednesday, the Election Commission of India (ECI) said it functions as a multi-member constitutional body under Article 324 of the Constitution. It operates through written notes, observations, technical suggestions, and internal checks and balances to ensure transparency, legal compliance, and operational rigour.

The ECI clarified that official orders, decisions and administrative directions carry full legal sanction and follow established statutory procedures under the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023. Operational queries or inputs raised by Commission members during draft stages form part of standard administrative practice aimed at safeguarding voter rights.

Commissioners' suggestions were intended to improve electoral processes. Differing views and observations, the ECI said, are a normal part of deliberation in any institution and form part of the decision-making process before a final decision is taken. Every officer of the Commission is authorised to suggest improvements to the electoral system.

Highlighting certain internal notes or observations spread over 10 months while overlooking the larger body of approvals, decisions, instructions and initiatives gives only one part of the picture, the Commission stated.

In recent months, the ECI has taken numerous decisions, issued instructions, introduced around 40 new initiatives, and undertaken many electoral reforms, including conducting the Electoral Roll Revision (Special Intensive Revision) across the country. The Commission took all these decisions unanimously in the past year.

The Commission has also successfully conducted major elections in Bihar, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Assam and West Bengal, along with related exercises involving wide-ranging administrative and operational machinery.

The ECI’s digital platforms, such as ECINet, operate under strict data security protocols to prevent unauthorised tampering or manipulation. The Commission has implemented IT security checks and standard cyber-security measures across national databases.

Statutory authorities, including Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) and District Election Officers (DEOs), function as per their statutory powers for registration and deletion under law. The Commission reiterated its full commitment to executing its constitutional duties with complete integrity.

--IANS

sktr/dan

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

sj/rad

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

sps/svn

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

na/vd

Los Angeles, Sep 24 (IANS) Hollywood star Brad Pitt has a different opinion about indie cinema. The actor has said that indie cinema is "as strong as in the ’90s".

The rise of streaming platforms has caused some people to believe that indie cinema is no longer palatable to the audience. However, the actor thinks indie movies are actually thriving in the new landscape.

The 62-year-old actor, who co-founded the production company Plan B Entertainment in 2001, attended the San Sebastian Film Festival recently.

He said at the festival, "I think the current setup has actually been really conducive to independent (films), in a really cool way because more eyes are getting on these projects. It feels even as strong as in the ’90s”.

His opinion was echoed by the ‘Heart of the Beast’ director David Ayer. The acclaimed filmmaker said, "I think there’s new pipelines of discovery out there, new auteurs. We have people coming in off YouTube or the internet, but now we’re seeing what I believe may be the ascent of it, as we find filmmakers in that space, but also as young people matriculate into the industry”.

“They have much different tastes, and they grew up on a different sense of media than we did. So I’m actually very excited about the future and future opportunities and future stories that are going to be told”, he added.

Brad Pitt had said that he is "pretty grateful" for the rise of streaming platforms. The actor claimed that streaming platforms like Netflix have actually helped to improve the overall quality of movies.

--IANS

aa/

Mumbai, Sep 24 (IANS) The makers of Gurmeet Choudhary and Isha Malviya's forthcoming romantic entertainer 'Tum Mere Ho' shared the teaser of the movie on Thursday.

The preview introduces us to a world where love feels powerful and beyond the ordinary. Full of emotional moments and dreamy visuals, the background score adds to the feel of the drama.

It must be noted that 'Tum Mere Ho' also marks Isha Malviya’s Bollywood debut.

Made under the direction of Aashish Panda, the film stars Shaan R Grover and Anushkaa Luhar in crucial roles, along with others. The movie is produced by Aarti S and Debina Bonnerjee, and co-produced by Romanch Mehta & Amman Riyastee.

Talking about his next, director Aashish Panda said, “It feels surreal to bring the intensity of love through Tum Mere Ho on the big screen. This is a story where love is not just about beautiful moments, but about the emotions, challenges and circumstances that test two people. We wanted to create an intense love story that also carries the thrill of action and adventure, making the experience larger and more cinematic.”

Sharing his experience of working with Gurmeet, he added, “As an actor and a producer, it was an absolute breeze to work with Gurmeet Choudhary. Never once did we feel like we were working on a film. It felt like a collaboration on something that came from our hearts. Gurmeet brought the intensity and conviction that the role demanded, and he has truly immersed himself in this world."

Written by Niranjan Iyengar and Purva Naresh, the film features lyrics by Rashmi Virag Mishra, Mithoon, Azeem Shirazi, Sanju Rathod, Vivek Verma & Geet Sagar. Mithoon, Sanju Rathod, Vivek Verma, Krish, Uddipan Sharma and Arjuna Harjai have scored the tunes for the drama.

'Tum Mere Ho' will be arriving in theatres on October 23rd this year.

--IANS

pm/

Mumbai, Sep 24 (IANS) Veteran Bollywood actor Mushtaq Khan passed away on September 24. He was 56 years old.

According to reports, Mushtaq Khan was admitted to Nanavati Hospital in Mumbai on Thursday after a significant decline in his health. He reportedly breathed his last on Thursday evening.

While the exact cause of his death is not known, he was reportedly suffering from cancer.

However, an official statement from his family is still awaited.

Comedian Sunil Pal shared a picture of Mushtaq Khan on his Instagram Stories and wrote, "RIP Mushtaq Khan sahab".

Talking about his cinematic journey, Mushtaq Khan made his film debut in 1980 with the drama 'Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyoon Aata Hai'. He was seen in a small role in the project.

After this, he went on to appear in several films during the 1980s, including 'Thodisi Bewafaii (1980)', 'Kaalia (1981)', and 'Kabzaa (1988)'.

However, he became widely recognized in the 1990s and 2000s through popular movies such as 'Aashiqui (1990)', 'Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin (1991)', 'Sadak (1991)', 'Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke (1993)', 'Chaahat (1996)', 'Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha (1998), 'Hera Pheri (2000), 'Jodi No. 1 (2001)', 'Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004)', 'Welcome (2007), 'My Friend Ganesha (2007)', 'Rowdy Rathore (2012)', 'Khiladi 786 (2012)', 'Welcome Back (2015)', 'Stree (2018)', 'Bharat (2019)', 'Badhaai Do (2022)', 'Gadar 2 (2023)', 'Stree 2 (2024)', 'Baby John (2024)', and 'Luv Ki Arrange Marriage (2024)'.

Mushtaq Khan is best remembered for his appearances as Gul Khan in Sunny Deol and Ameesha Patel's 'Gadar: Ek Prem Katha'. He was also a part of the second instalment of the franchise, which came out almost two decades after the release of the original drama.

As for television, he was seen as Baldev Tripathi in the show 'Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi'. He was also a part of 'Adaalat'.

--IANS

pm/

Mumbai, Sep 24 (IANS) Politician Raghav Chadha marked 3 years of marital bliss with Bollywood actress Parineeti Chopra with an adorable wish on social media.

Expressing his gratitude for the life the two of them are building together, Raghav uploaded a video montage of some rare moments of the lovebirds together on IG.

He wrote on the photo-sharing app, "Three years and I’m still not sure if I’ve found the words to describe how much you mean to me. Which is saying something, because I’m usually not short of them (sic)."

"From that first breakfast together to now, you have somehow made every version of life feel warmer, fuller and more like home. Particularly, this past year has given us so much to hold close, and somehow made me even more grateful for the life we are building together. Happy anniversary @parineetichopra (sic)," he added.

Raghav concluded the post, saying, "I feel incredibly lucky that I get to do life with you."

Parineeti's mother and Raghav's mother-in-law, Reena Chopra, wished the couple in the comment section, saying, "Awww !! Love you both! Happy Anniversary".

Parineeti and Raghav tied the knot on September 24, 2023, in a private ceremony in Udaipur.

The couple embraced parenthood on October 19, 2025, as they welcomed their son Neer.

These two are frequently seen supporting each other on social media.

Most recently, Raghav praised Parineeti ahead of her OTT debut with 'Shaque'.

Sharing the recently released trailer of 'Shaque' on his official Instagram handle, Raghav penned, "So proud of you @parineetichopra...I know how much you gave to Shaque, especially through a time that was already very special for us. Having spent some time at the shoot in Shimla, I also got to see the warmth and talent of the team behind it. An exceptionally talented bunch, and clearly one you had a lot of fun working with."

--IANS

pm/