Jammu, April 25 (IANS) Police in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district said on Saturday that it has booked a notorious drug peddler, who has been lodged in Bhaderwah jail.

Police said that continuing its firm drive against drug menace under the ongoing 𝗡𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗮 𝗠𝘂𝗸𝘁 J𝗮𝗺𝗺𝘂 𝗞𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗺𝗶𝗿 𝗔𝗯𝗵𝗶𝘆𝗮𝗻, District Police Reasi has achieved another major success on the directions of 𝗦𝗦𝗣 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗶, 𝗠𝘂𝗸𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗶𝗯𝗿𝗲𝘄𝗮𝗹, 𝗜𝗣𝗦, by booking a notorious drug peddler under the 𝗣𝗜𝗧 𝗡𝗗𝗣𝗦 𝗔𝗰𝘁 and lodging him in 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘁 𝗝𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗕𝗵𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘄𝗮𝗵.

The accused has been identified as 𝗦𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗵 alias 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗹 (𝟯𝟭 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀), son of 𝗦𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗵, resident of 𝗣𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗱𝗶, 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸𝗮𝗵, 𝗔𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘀, at present living at 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗵𝗮, 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗶.

He was detained under 𝗢𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗡𝗼. 𝟭𝟮 𝗼𝗳 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 April 𝟮𝟰, issued by the 𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗿, 𝗝𝗮𝗺𝗺𝘂. The accused was involved in several NDPS cases registered at different police stations.

Despite being booked multiple times under the NDPS Act and repeatedly warned to stop illegal activities, the accused continued supplying banned drugs to local youth for monetary gains.

Keeping in view his continuous involvement in drug trafficking and to protect society from the menace of drugs, strict preventive action was taken against him under the PIT NDPS Act.

The whole investigation was conducted by probationary sub-inspector, Rahul Jamwal, by a team headed by station house office police station 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗶 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗽ector, 𝗞𝗵𝘆𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗮𝗻 𝗞𝗵𝗮𝗷𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗮, under the close supervision of 𝗗eput𝘆 𝗦𝗣 𝗛ead𝗾ua𝗿ter𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗶 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗵 𝗝𝗮𝗺𝘄𝗮𝗹 and 𝗔𝗱𝗱itional 𝗦𝗣 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗶 𝗜𝗳𝘁𝗸𝗵𝗮𝗿 𝗔𝗵𝗺𝗲𝗱, 𝗝𝗞𝗣𝗦.

While sharing details, 𝗦𝗦𝗣 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗶 stated that police are working on a multi-pronged strategy to tackle drug abuse. On one hand, awareness programmes are being organised across the district, while on the other hand, strict legal action is being taken against drug peddlers on a regular basis.

He further informed that Reasi Police have also launched an 𝗔𝗻𝘁𝗶 𝗗𝗿𝘂𝗴 𝗛𝗲𝗹𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗡𝘂𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟵𝟬𝟳𝟬𝟵𝟬𝟳𝟬𝟭𝟳, where the identity of informers will be kept confidential. Giving a strong message to drug peddlers, 𝗦𝗦𝗣 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗶 said that there is no place for drug peddlers in Reasi.

Those involved in destroying the future of youth should return to the mainstream, otherwise they will be dealt with firmly under the law, the SSP said.

--IANS

sq/uk

Raipur, April 25 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Saturday reported a significant breakthrough in its investigation into suspicious financial networks operating within the Maoist-affected regions of Chhattisgarh.

After a series of coordinated raids across multiple states, including targeted operations in the Dhamtari and Bastar districts, the central agency has gathered substantial evidence pointing toward an organised system of foreign funding.

According to sources, the operation led to the recovery of several foreign-origin debit cards, a significant amount of unexplained cash, various digital devices, and a cache of sensitive documents.

The ongoing investigation suggests a sophisticated method of moving capital, where large sums of money were systematically withdrawn within India using these international debit cards.

These funds were then allegedly diverted into specific regions of Chhattisgarh to finance local activities under the radar of traditional banking oversight.

The revelations have prompted a strong reaction from the state leadership.

When asked if ED has seized financial transactions worth Rs 6 crore, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, while speaking to media, said the central agency's probe in the Bastar region has uncovered a financial network and the agency will take further action.

Reportedly these substantial sums were being utilised to facilitate religious conversion activities in the sensitive tribal belt.

This development adds a new layer of complexity to the security situation in Bastar, as authorities look into whether these financial trails link back to broader networks seeking to destabilise the social and political fabric of the region.

The ED is currently scrutinising the digital evidence and bank statements to trace the ultimate source of these foreign deposits.

Investigators are working to identify the individuals and organisations abroad responsible for fuelling these local operations.

This crackdown is part of a larger effort by federal agencies to choke the financial lifelines of illicit groups operating in the "Red Corridor".

As the probe widens, officials expect to uncover more details regarding the logistics of how these foreign funds were distributed on the ground and the specific intermediaries involved.

--IANS

sktr/khz

New Delhi, April 25 (IANS) Delhi Capitals pacer Lungi Ngidi is undergoing medical tests at a city hospital after suffering a nasty head injury during the IPL clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, with the result of those reports still awaited.

“Various tests are still being conducted on injured Delhi Capitals pacer Lungi Ngidi at the Max Super Speciality Hospital in Karol Bagh. Reports of it are still awaited. It is to be noted that he was unconscious when he was taken off the field in the ambulance,” said sources at the venue to IANS on Saturday.

In the IPL 2026 clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Ngidi fell awkwardly while attempting to take a catch off Priyansh Arya in the third over of Punjab Kings chase. Arya tried to loft Axar Patel over mid-off, but Ngidi backtracked from mid-off, misjudged the trajectory, and fell heavily on his backside.

In the process, Ngidi hit the back of his head onto the ground and grimaced in pain for a long time. Everyone on the field wore tense expressions as medical staff rushed in, with the DC physio and team doctor attending to Ngidi on the ground, as play was halted for 15 minutes.

A stretcher was brought out as the crowd fell silent, sensing the seriousness of the situation. Ngidi’s teammates David Miller and Tristan Stubbs looked visibly shaken, while DC coach Hemang Badani gestured for a neck brace to be applied to him.

To add more to the scary and disturbing scenes, an ambulance was wheeled onto the ground as doctors and physios along with players and coaches surrounded the pacer. Though Ngidi was able to communicate with the medical staff via hand gestures, he wasn’t able to move his neck and head regions.

A neck brace was slid under his head before he was strapped onto the stretcher and then taken off the field in an ambulance. Ngidi was replaced in DC’s playing eleven by leg-spin bowling all-rounder Vipraj Nigam, who came in as a concussion substitute.

--IANS

nr/

Mumbai, April 25 (IANS) Veteran actress Shabana Azmi got a chance to reunite with the team of her 1996 release, "Fire".

On Saturday, Shabana took to her official Instagram account and published a picture posing with her 'Fire' co-star Nandita Das and director Deepa Mehta.

In the photo, Shabana is seen twinning with Deepa in black attire with identical dupattas, while Nandita opted for a yellow saree.

Standing in the middle, Nandita had her hands around both Shabana and Deepa.

"#Deepa Mehta and I are wearing identical dupattas by sheer coincidence ! Shukr hai #Nandita Das is in yellow ! (sic)," she captioned the post.

"Fire" is the first installment of Deepa Mehta's Elements trilogy, succeeded by "Earth" (1998) and "Water" (2005).

Loosely inspired by Ismat Chughtai's 1942 story, "Lihaaf" ("The Quilt") "Fire" is one of the first mainstream Hindi films to talk about a lesbian relationship.

Following the release of the movie back in 1998, several protests were staged, leading to a public dialogue around issues such as homosexuality and freedom of speech.

Shabana keeps turning back the clock, sharing precious memories with her loved ones on social media.

Earlier this month, she posted a lovely childhood memory with her brother Baba Azmi and mother Shaukat Azmi.

She dropped an old picture from her childhood days on her Insta in which her younger brother, Baba Azmi, was hugging their mother, while Shabana had her hands up in the air.

The veteran actress admitted that she had raised her hands out of sheer insecurity, as she wanted to shift the attention to herself.

"I remember clearly when this photo was taken at our small room in #Red Flag Hall. My younger brother #Baba Azmi was clinging to mummy and I put my hands up to cover up my insecurity and draw attention to myself !!!", Shabana wrote the caption.

--IANS

pm/

New Delhi, April 25 (IANS) The government on Saturday said that around 12.65 lakh passengers have travelled from the Gulf and West Asia region to India since February 28.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it is closely tracking developments in the region, with a strong focus on the safety, security and welfare of the Indian community.

Indian missions and posts across the Gulf and West Asia are operating round-the-clock helplines and are actively assisting citizens while remaining in constant touch with local governments.

The government has been issuing regular advisories to keep Indian nationals informed about local regulations, travel updates and available consular services.

Missions are also engaging with Indian community groups, companies and professional organisations to ensure timely support reaches those in need.

Flight operations between India and the region are gradually improving, with additional services being introduced.

In the UAE, airlines are operating limited commercial flights based on safety considerations, with around 110 flights expected to operate between the UAE and India on Saturday.

Services are also continuing from Saudi Arabia and Oman, while Qatar Airways has resumed flights after partial reopening of Qatar’s airspace.

Air connectivity is also picking up in other parts of the region. Kuwait and Bahrain have reopened their airspace, with airlines either resuming or planning limited operations to India.

Iraq is allowing restricted flight services that can be used for onward travel, while Iran has partially opened its airspace for cargo and chartered flights.

The government has advised Indian nationals to avoid travelling to Iran and urged those currently there to exit via land borders, with assistance from the Indian Embassy in Tehran, which has already helped over 2,400 Indians leave the country.

Meanwhile, Israel has resumed limited flight operations, providing additional routes for travel to India through connecting destinations.

On the maritime front, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said all necessary measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of Indian vessels and seafarers operating in the region.

No incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels have been reported in the past 24 hours, and all Indian seafarers in the region are safe, the centre said.

--IANS

pk

New Delhi, April 25 (IANS) In a fresh attack amid an upheaval in the AAP, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Cabinet Minister Parvesh Verma on Saturday attacked AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal over the wastage of public money on his erstwhile official CM residence or “Sheesh Mahal”, calling him “Delhi’s Rehman Dakait” – a comparison with an underworld character in Bollywood blockbuster “Dhurandhar”.

Chief Minister Gupta said on X, “The AAP, which began with the slogan of revolution, is now meeting its end through distrust and alienation. In your party now, there is no common man left; only corrupt men remain.”

“Mr Kejriwal, the departure of two-thirds of the Rajya Sabha MPs is a direct blow to your dictatorship. After Delhi, now it is Punjab's turn,” she said, indicating an imminent ouster of the ruling AAP in the agrarian state in the Assembly elections next year.

Parvesh Verma dug up the corruption issue by referring to “Sheesh Mahal” and released a video on social media, depicting the lavish facilities created for the then Chief Minister Kejriwal at his official residence.

Calling Kejriwal the “Delhi’s Rehman Dakait”, he also released a spoof video titled “Dhurandhar PART 3”.

In the video, he takes the viewer on a guided tour of the former palatial Chief Minister’s residence of Kejriwal in the Civil Lines area that stands sealed at present.

In the video, he shows the bungalow’s Rs 1.5 crore kitchen, Rs 95 lakh switches, Rs 88 lakh chandelier, and Rs 28 lakh TV, highlighting that the monthly electricity bill of the bungalow was Rs 5 lakh.

Criticising Kejriwal for his corrupt practices, Parvesh Verma said, “A person who misused photos of Mahatma Gandhi and Shaheed Bhagat Singh and circulated an affidavit swearing that he would never accept an official accommodation spent crores of rupees on silk carpets, bathroom fittings, TV, Vietnam marble floor and automatic curtains”

The Minister said Kejriwal’s corruption was tactfully camouflaged by him under his poor, common man profile, which he built by keeping a Rs 2 pen in his shirt pocket and moving around wearing over-sized clothes.

Parvesh Verma, in a video message issued on his social media handle, said, “He used to say that I won't take a bungalow, I won't take a house — today it is clear that what he meant was I won't take an ordinary one. I'll take a palace, but I won't take an ordinary house.”

The Chief Minister and her Cabinet Minister’s fresh attack on Kejriwal comes at a time when a group of AAP Rajya Sabha MPs, led by Raghav Chadha, has decided to join the BJP as the “party has stepped away from honest politics”.

--IANS

rch/uk

Seoul, April 25 (IANS) The long overdue visit of the South Korean President Lee Jae Myung to India earlier this week signalled a reset in ties, with both nations acknowledging that their earlier engagement was too limited for a world shaped by tariffs, chips, supply-chain shocks and great-power pressure.

According to a report in ‘One World Outlook', India and South Korea offer a pragmatic model of cooperation, bringing together a large emerging democracy and an advanced industrial democracy that drives technology, capacity and jobs beyond mere rhetoric.

"The long delay was not an accident. It reflected habit, not hostility. India was busy building ties with the US, managing China, consolidating its Gulf relationships and asserting itself across the Global South. South Korea, meanwhile, spent years focused on North Korea, its security dependence on the United States and the awkward reality of doing business with China while worrying about China. In that crowded diplomatic calendar, India–Korea ties were important but never urgent enough to force a summit breakthrough," the report detailed.

The report in 'One World Outlook' stressed that the real opportunity lies in technology, with India and South Korea moving beyond automobiles and steel to focus on semiconductors, artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, payments, battery supply chains and advanced manufacturing.

“That shift matters because the next decade will reward countries that can combine market scale with industrial depth. India brings the former; South Korea brings the latter. India has talent, data scale and a booming digital public infrastructure. South Korea has manufacturing discipline, export sophistication and deep experience in high-technology production. Together, they can do more than trade. They can co-build," it mentioned.

“This is also why the ‘digital bridge' idea has significance beyond diplomacy-speak. It suggests that the two countries understand the strategic value of shared digital standards, interoperable systems and trusted technology partnerships. In a world where chips, cloud systems and AI models are increasingly tied to national security, a bilateral relationship that moves from software contracts to ecosystem cooperation is something much bigger," it further stated.

The report noted that the bilateral cooperation across diverse sectors offers a way to reduce dependence on a narrow set of suppliers while opening up new industrial corridors.

Highlighting the broader significance of the bilateral cooperation, the report said, "Now the language is clearer: technology, industrial capacity, defence production, maritime resilience and a more serious role in shaping the Global South. If India and South Korea follow through, this visit may be remembered not as a diplomatic courtesy but as the moment two major Asian democracies decided to stop underperforming and start building something that matches the world around them."

--IANS

scor/as

New Delhi, April 25 (IANS) West Bengal’s principal Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will need to significantly shore up its 2021 performance in phase two of Assembly election scheduled on Wednesday, April 29, where most of the 142 seats spread across seven districts have historically voted overwhelmingly for the ruling Trinamool Congress.

The BJP had a favourable field among the 152 constituencies which went to poll in the first phase last Thursday, April 23, where it had won 59 of the total 77 seats in a 2021 surge.

Among the districts is Nadia, which has altogether 17 Assembly constituencies. Seven of these come under Krishnanagar Parliamentary seat, which is held by Trinamool’s Mahua Moitra.

Among the seven Assembly segments, the BJP could win only one, Krishnanagar Uttar. BJP candidate Jagannath Sarkar retained the other Lok Sabha seat of Ranaghat in 2024.

His party had also fared well in the 2021 Assembly poll, winning four of the seven segments here.

Among the three other three Assembly seats, Karimpur -- which falls under Murshidabad Lok Sabha -- went to the Trinamool, while Kalyani and Haringhata, both part of Bangaon Parliamentary constituency, was won by the BJP.

North 24 Parganas witnessed a near sweep by the Trinamool, though Bongaon and Barrackpore Lok Sabha seats went to the BJP in 2024 and the Trinamool kept Barasat and Basirhat.

Among the 33 Assembly constituencies, the BJP could win only three in the 2021 state poll. In South 24 Parganas, the Trinamool made a clean sweep of the 31 assembly segments, except Bhangar, which went to the Indian Secular Front in 2021, and made a clean run in the five Lok Sabha seats in 2024.

Trinamool holds the Kolkata fortress with two Lok Sabha and 11 Assemblies in its kitty where the BJP is trying to make a dent this time. The state ruling party’s juggernaut rolled unchallenged in the five Parliamentary seats in Howrah and Hooghly in the 2024 Lok Sabha poll. Among the 34 Assembly constituencies in these two districts, the BJP could manage four in the 2021 state election, all coming under the Arambagh Lok Sabha seat in Hooghly.

In Purba Bardhaman, the Trinamool swept through all the 16 Assembly segments in 2021 and wrapped up the three Parliamentary constituencies in 2024.

In subsequent by-elections, held due to a sitting MLA either moving or resigning, there were changes in the 2021 results.

For example, the Trinamool edged out BJP in Santipur and Ranaghat Dakshin Assembly seats in Nadia district under Ranaghat Lok Sabha constituency.

Also among seats going to polls are those considered Matua strongholds in the North 24 Parganas, where the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls has created misgivings.

More than 12.3 lakh names were deleted across three phases of the exercise, with the Bongaon subdivision – home to four Matua-dominated Assembly segments – facing the fallout.

Three of the seats here are currently held by the BJP, which had led in all four during the last Lok Sabha polls. Gaighata was worst affected, losing over 16,000 voters, while Bagdah, Bongaon North, and Bongaon South also saw thousands of deletions.

Many Matua voters allege targeted exclusion, pointing to unfulfilled promises of citizenship. Local leaders expressed frustration, saying delays in processing applications left them disenfranchised.

The fallout has sparked a fierce blame game. Trinamool leaders accused the BJP of betraying the Matua community by failing to deliver on citizenship assurances, while BJP functionaries urged voters to seek redress through tribunals.

SIR fallout has also extended to urban pockets like Bidhannagar and Rajarhat, where tens of thousands of names were struck off. With the Matua vote seen as crucial in these constituencies, the issue has become a flashpoint.

The Matua community is a socio-religious group with roots tracing back to the Namasudra movement led by Harichand Thakur in the 19th century.

Originally formed to challenge caste-based discrimination and promote social equality, the Matuas became a significant voice for marginalised Hindus, particularly those who migrated from Bangladesh during Partition.

In West Bengal, they are concentrated in districts like North 24 Parganas and Nadia, where their numbers make them a decisive electoral bloc.

Their demand for citizenship rights under the CAA has become a central political issue, with both the BJP and Trinamool Congress vying for their support.

--IANS

jb/pgh

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

Mumbai, April 25 (IANS) Actor Prithviraj Sukumaran completed 15 years of marital bliss with his better half, Supriya Menon, on Saturday.

Wishing his wife on their special day, Prithviraj compiled a heartfelt post on his official social media handle.

He took to his official Instagram handle and uploaded a romantic click with Supriya. In the photograph, the lovebirds were seen posing in front of a road, with a snow-capped mountain in the backdrop.

The caption on Prithviraj's post read, “Happy anniversary partner! To more travels, discoveries and forever fighting battles together! (sic)”.

Actors Tovino Thomas and Neil Nitin Mukesh congratulated the couple in the comments section.

While Neil wrote, "Happy Anniversary.. God bless you both and the family," Tovino dropped two red heart emoticons.

Meanwhile, Supriya also posted a couple of photos with her husband on her Instagram account to wish him on their anniversary.

One of the pictures had Prithviraj and Supriy inside a gym, as Prithviraj flexed his biceps. This was followed by a still of the two posing for a selfie together.

She wished Prithviraj using the following words, “Happy 15th Anniversary P! Here’s hoping for a lifetime of togetherness with Ally kutty & Zorro! Baby! (sic)”

For those who do not know, Prithviraj tied the knot with Supriya back in 2011. The couple welcomed their daughter Alankrita in 2014.

Talking about his professional commitments, Prithviraj has been roped in for ace filmmaker SS Rajamouli's upcoming drama, "Varanasi". The much-discussed saga will also see Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra Jonas in crucial roles.

In the latest update, "Varanasi" will be making an international appearance at Comic Con Experience Mexico 2026.

It will be showcased through an exclusive panel scheduled for April 24 at the Thunder Stage.

Prithviraj's lineup further includes the revenge thriller "Khalifa" and Meghna Gulzar's "Daayra" opposite Kareena Kapoor.

--IANS

pm/

Mumbai, April 25 (IANS) Veteran actress Madhoo used her latest social media post to show how indulging in some heavy cardio not only improves one's health but also leaves them with a sense of achievement, enhancing their character.

The 'Roja' actress was heard saying in the clip, "Hey, hi, this is me after a heavy-duty cardio workout after a long time. I don't believe in hacks and tips in life. Yeah, though I do believe that something is better than nothing. So anything that you get to do for yourself intentionally for bettering your health is great. But having said that, that focus time spent with yourself not only helps your body to be fit, but it also talks about your character, sharpens you, and your will. It tests your will, and all that is important, and you feel good, you feel amazing, and let me tell you there's so much going on in this world."

Madhoo further pointed out that while dealing with so much in our daily life, a simple act such as going for a good run can leave one extremely happy, getting rid of all the worries.

"You know that there's a war zone happening. There are pet dogs in the hospital. There are weddings to be planned. There is education planning to be done. There's so much pain and so much stress, and also don't forget, not being invited to a party. Hmm, as unimportant as it may be, it does give you pain. So to get rid of everything, just go for a good run, and you come out happy...Happy Saturday," she concluded.

"Cardiovascular equals achievement equals happiness #saturdayvibes (sic), she wrote the caption on the post.

Madhoo, who is extremely active on social media, loves to keep her Insta Fam hooked with such insightful and motivating posts.

--IANS

pm/

Mumbai, April 25 (IANS) Basking in the success of "Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1", actress Rukmini Vasanth is gearing up for her next big release with "Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups".

Speaking during a recent media interaction, Rukmini provided some insights into the film’s massive scale, along with the expansive world it plans to bring to the big screen.

Emphasising the sheer scale of the drama, she said that it is unlike anything she has ever seen till now.

“The scale of it is certainly unlike anything that I have seen yet,” she said.

Rukmini added that the cinematic world being created for "Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups" feels absolutely fresh and expansive.

Talking about working with filmmaker Geetu Mohandas, Rukmini pointed out the uniqueness of the world being built for Yash's highly promising next.

“I just think that the world that our director Geetu Mohandas and our star Yash are building is just so expansive, so new—it feels really pioneering to me. So I’m excited to be involved in it, and I think I’m really excited to see how people respond to it and how they react to this new world,” she shared.

Looking back on the journey of being a part of "Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups", Rukmini went on to add, “I’m very blessed. But what I’m really excited about is Toxic, which is out on June 4th".

Produced by Venkat K. Narayana and Yash under their KVN Productions and Monster Mind Creations production companies, the core cast of the movie includes Yash, Nayanthara, Kiara Advani, Tara Sutaria, Huma Qureshi, Rukmini Vasanth, Akshay Oberoi, and Sudev Nair, along with others.

“Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups” will be dubbed in multiple Indian and international languages, such as Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam.

In addition to "Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups", Rukmini also has NTR Neel's next alongside Jr NTR in the making.

Her lineup further includes a few unannounced projects.

--IANS

pm/

Mumbai, April 25 (IANS) After making everyone move with the vibrant ‘Roop Di Rani’ track, the makers of the upcoming romantic entertainer "Pati Patni Aur Woh Do" have unveiled the second number from the movie titled "Dil Waale Chor".

The song features Ayushmann Khurrana and Sara Ali Khan engaging in old-school romance while flaunting their graceful dancing moves.

Composed by Rochak Kohli, the track goes to show the nuances of modern romance, blending mischief with heartfelt emotion.

"Dil Waale Chor" has been crooned by Aditya Rikhari, along with Shreya Ghoshal, with lyrics penned by Kumaar.

Choreographed by Piyush-Shazia, the song was shared on social media, along with the caption, "#DilWaaleChor kheeche Ishq ki Dor...Go watch full song for more...#PatiPatniAurWohDo In cinemas on 15th May 2026! (sic)"

Talking about "Pati Patni Aur Woh Do", the makers recently provided a glimpse into the much-discussed drama with an engaging teaser.

Going by the preview, the movie narrates the confusing journey of a married man who finds himself entangled between not one or two, but three women, leading to some majorly chaotic situations.

Ayushmann will be seen as Prajapati Pandey in his next. Along with Sara, the drama will also feature Wamiqa Gabbi and Rakul Preet Singh as the ladies in Prajapati's life. Moreover, actor Vijay Raaz will also play a police officer in the laughter ride.

Backed by T-Series and B R Studios, the film is directed by Mudassar Aziz and produced by Bhushan Kumar, Renu Ravi Chopra, and Krishan Kumar, with Juno Chopra as the creative producer.

"Pati Patni Aur Woh Do" is set to reach the cinema halls on May 15 this year.

Refreshing your memory, Mudassar Aziz has also directed the 2019 release “Pati Patni Aur Woh". The project, which itself is a retelling of the 1978 film of the same name, features Kartik Aaryan, Bhumi Pednekar, and Ananya Panday as the primary cast.

--IANS

pm/