Los Angeles, Feb 19 (IANS) Hollywood actor Shia LaBeouf, who was earlier arrested in New Orleans, was seen back out on the streets for Mardi Gras.

The actor, 39, was spotted on Bourbon Street dancing alongside revelers before city officials later shut down festivities, reports ‘People’ magazine.

In videos circulating online, the actor can be seen wearing Mardi Gras beads around his neck and holding blue-and-white jail release paperwork in his mouth as he moved through the crowd, according to local news outlet WGNO.

Earlier that morning, LaBeouf had been arrested following an alleged altercation outside a Royal Street business.

In a statement, the New Orleans Police Department said officers responded at approximately 12:45 a.m. on February 17, to the 1400 block of Royal Street “in response to a simple battery where two victims (two adult males), reported being assaulted. Investigators say a man identified as 39-year-old Shia LaBeouf was reportedly causing a disturbance and becoming increasingly aggressive at a Royal Street business. A staff member attempted to eject Mr. LaBeouf from the establishment. Once removed from the building, the victim reported being struck by LaBeouf who used his closed fists on the victim several times”.

The victims reported that LaBeouf left, but then came back, acting even more aggressive”, Police added, “Multiple people attempted to hold him down, he was eventually let up in hopes that he would leave, but he reportedly again struck the same victim with closed fists to the victim’s upper body.

As per ‘People’, the actor then reportedly assaulted another person, punching him in the nose”. Bystanders restrained the actor until officers arrived, authorities said. “LaBeouf was again held down until police arrived”, the statement continued.

He was then taken to a hospital for treatment of unknown injuries. After receiving treatment, he was arrested and charged with two counts of simple battery, a misdemeanour. The actor appeared virtually in court Tuesday afternoon in connection with the charges.

--IANS

aa/

Bengaluru, Feb 19 (IANS) Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on the Congress-led government in Karnataka, alleging that the state was facing severe financial strain and that internal conflicts within the ruling party had undermined the dignity of the Chief Minister’s office.

Speaking to mediapersons in Bengaluru, Ashoka claimed that the government was unable to release funds for several welfare schemes due to financial constraints.

He alleged that despite the situation, Congress MLAs were undertaking foreign tours.

Referring to a scheme implemented jointly by the Centre and the state to support children orphaned during the Covid-19 pandemic, Ashoka said there are 26,334 such children in Karnataka. He said the state government provides Rs 4,000 per month for their sustenance and claimed that funds amounting to Rs 75 crore meant for these beneficiaries had not been released for the past seven months.

He cited district-wise figures, stating that there are 2,220 beneficiaries in Koppal, 1,059 in Ballari and 2,650 in Dharwad.

Ashoka accused the government of allocating large sums for schemes such as Gruha Lakshmi and Annabhagya while allegedly failing to release funds for vulnerable children. He also claimed that allocations made in the previous budget for various schemes were yet to be disbursed even as preparations were under way for presentation of a new budget.

He further alleged that employees of the four state-run transport corporations were preparing for a strike over non-payment of arrears and termed it an indication of financial stress within the state transport sector.

Ashoka also criticised the government’s reported move to invoke the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) against protesting employees and claimed that staff were continuing their protests.

He alleged that garbage clearance had been affected in parts of Bengaluru and claimed that contractors were preparing to halt works due to non-payment of dues. He urged the government to release funds and address the situation.

The Opposition leader further alleged that internal differences within the Congress had affected governance and called upon Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to clarify the political situation within the ruling party.

He also alleged that major government works were being awarded to contractors from outside Karnataka, raising concerns about opportunities for local contractors.

The state government has not yet responded to the allegations.

--IANS

mka/pgh

Jaipur, Feb 19 (IANS) Water Resources Minister Suresh Singh Rawat stated that the Rajasthan government is fully committed to bringing Yamuna water from the Hathinikund Barrage to the Shekhawati region.

This initiative, led by Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and supported by the Central Government, has reached a historic milestone with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Haryana, ensuring Rajasthan’s share of water.

Minister Rawat explained that, under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the MoU between Rajasthan and Haryana was signed on February 17, 2024, under the chairmanship of the Union Jal Shakti Minister, to prepare a joint Detailed Project Report (DPR). A joint task force has also been formed by both states. Haryana' written approval has been received for the alignment suggested by the consultants appointed by the task force.

The joint DPR will soon be submitted to the Central Water Commission. After obtaining the necessary approvals from various departments, work on the project will commence in the 2026-27 financial year.

A provision of Rs 32,000 crore has been made in the state budget for this long-awaited project.

Minister Rawat emphasised that the project is crucial for meeting the 30-year-old drinking water and other requirements of Sikar, Churu, Jhunjhunu, and surrounding areas. It is expected to significantly improve social, educational, economic, and health standards in the region.

To ensure year-round availability of Yamuna water, the project proposes constructing three dams in the Yamuna basin above Hathinikund Barrage. Construction on two of these dams -- Renukaji and Lakhwar -- is already underway.

Shekhawati region of Rajasthan comprises the districts of Sikar, Jhunjhunu and Churu.

The semi-arid region is known for its painted havelis, strong trading communities and a long tradition of migration to metropolitan cities and abroad.

Despite its cultural prominence, Shekhawati has faced persistent drinking water scarcity due to low rainfall and depleting groundwater levels.

Large parts of the region depend on tanker supply and groundwater extraction.

Agriculture remains largely rain-fed, with farmers vulnerable to drought cycles.

Over the years, demand for a reliable surface water source, including Yamuna water, has remained a key public issue in the region.

--IANS

arc/pgh

New Delhi, Feb 19 (IANS) Karnataka ministers Priyank Kharge and Sharan Prakash Patil have said the state is positioning itself as a national leader in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and deep technology, with a focus on skill development, responsible AI use and global collaboration.

Speaking to IANS at the AI Summit in Delhi on Wednesday, Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, IT and BT, Priyank Kharge said there is immense potential for India, and particularly Karnataka, to harness the global technological disruption currently underway.

“There is an immense opportunity for India as a country and Karnataka as a state to leverage the disruption happening across the world. The Government of Karnataka is leading and is well ahead. We are engaging with global leaders on skill incubation and setting up centres of excellence for our startups in the state,” he said.

Kharge added that the state aims to take the lead in the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence for e-governance. He noted that Karnataka ranks among the top states in skill capabilities and has one of the largest AI talent pools in the country.

“We are leveraging global leaders in deep tech and AI. We are in discussions to see how we can collaborate for the future, particularly in advanced technologies,” he said.

Responding to a question about the Galgotias University controversy, Kharge stressed the importance of ethics in innovation. “It does not matter who it is. We need to be ethical. If the invention, innovation or intellectual property is not yours, you should not claim it as yours or mislead people into believing so. Whether it is a university, a company or an individual, the same standard applies,” he said.

It may be noted that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday reacted to the recent controversy over Galgotias University's presence at India AI Impact Summit and its claims about a China-manufactured Robodog. Gandhi said that the AI summit is a “disorganised PR spectacle.” He claimed that Indian data is up for sale and Chinese products are showcased at the summit.

Minister Kharge also acknowledged complaints about organisational issues and lack of communication affecting entrepreneurs, but said such matters fall within the purview of the Government of India.

Minister for Medical Education and Skill Development, Entrepreneurship and Livelihood, Sharan Prakash Patil, said India has a major role to play in the AI space and that Karnataka is already a leader in the field.

“Karnataka, especially Bengaluru, is regarded as the Silicon City of the country. We have the right ecosystem, a strong talent pool and high adaptability. The government is supporting this by building the right skill base,” he said.

Patil said the Skill Development Department aims to train at least five lakh graduates every year in AI-related technologies. To achieve this, the state is setting up around five centres of excellence to prepare youth for future-ready skills.

“Adoptability is a major question today. The next step is how to adopt AI tools without causing displacement of the workforce. AI should assist rather than replace. We are focusing on skilling people for future jobs,” he said.

He added that AI would increasingly be used across sectors, including health, public administration, e-governance and agriculture. “There is no limit to where AI can be applied. It will play a role in every department and in all areas,” he said.

--IANS

mka/uk

New Delhi, Feb 19 (IANS) Union Minister for Food, Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi on Wednesday criticised the Karnataka government over the alleged allotment of civic amenity (CA) sites meant for public infrastructure to Congress party offices, questioning whether such land was the “ancestral property” of the Congress.

Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, Joshi alleged that more than 24 civic amenity sites had been allotted at concessional rates for the construction of Congress offices. He termed the move improper and accused the Congress-led state government of misusing public resources.

He said the land, valued at crores of rupees and intended for public purposes such as parks, libraries and hospitals, had instead been allocated for “Congress Bhavans”, which he described as a betrayal of public interest.

Joshi further alleged that while the government claims there is insufficient land available for housing the poor, it is simultaneously allotting public land for party offices.

Accusing the Congress of treating public property as its own asset, he questioned the rationale behind the allotments and demanded that they be reviewed.

He also called for the alleged allotments to be revoked and warned that the BJP would launch protests if corrective action was not taken.

The Karnataka BJP has alleged that the state government allotted 31 plots meant for civic use for party purposes and claimed that this amounted to misuse of public land. The party has released documents in support of its allegations and demanded that the allotments be cancelled.

Leader of the Opposition in the Karnataka Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanaswamy also criticised the move, stating that public land should not be allotted for political party offices at various administrative levels, including taluk and district levels.

The Karnataka government has not yet issued an official response to the allegations.

--IANS

mka/pgh

Bhubaneswar, Feb 19 (IANS) The Odisha Government on Wednesday inked a memorandum of understanding with Tata Technologies to upgrade the 22 government ITIs across the state into Centres of Excellence (CoEs).

According to an official statement, the total project cost of Rs 779.00 crore will be spent on the upgradation of the ITIs. The Government of Odisha will bear 14 per cent of the project cost, while Tata Technologies will contribute approximately 86 per cent, as stated in the Memorandum of Agreement.

“The upgraded ITIs will be equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories and industry-grade equipment, bringing training infrastructure at par with modern industrial standards. The Centres of Excellence will focus on high-growth and emerging sectors such as automobile, including electric vehicles, design and verification tools, 3D printing and additive manufacturing, Internet of Things (IoT), robotics and advanced manufacturing, advanced CNC and VMC machining, advanced plumbing technology, and process control and automation technology,” informed the state government.

The private firm will also extend comprehensive handholding support for five years, including deployment of trainers, maintenance of equipment, and facilitation of placements to ensure strong industry linkage and sustainable outcomes.

On this occasion, three other MoUs were also exchanged. A collaboration with UNICEF will leverage the YouthHub platform to facilitate placement of over 2,000 girls through digital skilling and an outcome-based funding model.

A partnership between the World Skill Centre and Kawasaki Robotics India Pvt Ltd aims to strengthen capacity in robotics, automation, and Industry 4.0 technologies, preparing youth for advanced manufacturing ecosystems.

Another MoU between the World Skill Centre and Atreya Global Pvt Limited will create structured overseas employment pathways in Germany and other European countries by integrating skilling, language training, placement facilitation, and post-placement support.

Addressing the gathering, Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain underscored that making Odisha’s youth industry-ready remains a central priority of the Government. He observed that while infrastructure builds industries, it is skills that build the human capital necessary to sustain and grow them.

“Skill Development is not a peripheral welfare measure; it is a core economic strategy that will drive inclusive growth and global competitiveness,” he said, adding that empowering youth with relevant and future-ready skills is essential to achieving the State’s long-term development goals.

--IANS

gyan/uk

Gandhinagar, Feb 18 (IANS) The Gujarat Government’s budget for 2026-27, presented by Finance Minister Kanu Desai, allocates Rs 24,022 crore for the Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Department, emphasising farmer empowerment and rural development.

The total state budget stands at Rs 4.08 lakh crore.

Welcoming the budget, Agriculture and Spokesperson Minister Jitu Vaghani said, “Today’s Gujarat budget will further advance Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Developed India @ 2047’. Presented under the slogan ‘Where there is humanity, there are facilities’, it gives special priority to agriculture, health, education, infrastructure, roads, and all key sectors, ensuring 360-degree development for the state.”

Minister Vaghani highlighted the government’s focus on agricultural mechanisation, aimed at reducing farmers’ labour and costs.

The budget allocates over Rs 1,500 crore for mechanisation, including Rs 764 crore for modern farming equipment, an increase of Rs 173 crore from last year, and Rs 800 crore for tractor purchases.

Under the Crop Storage Structure Scheme, the size of structures has been increased to 600 sq. ft, with assistance doubled from Rs one lakh to Rs two lakh per unit.

The total allocation for the scheme has been raised to Rs 120 crore. To promote chemical-free organic farming, Rs 392 crore has been allocated.

Research and infrastructure development at state agricultural universities will receive Rs 1,063 crore. A new 'Gujarat Agribusiness and Export Promotion Policy' has been announced to support agriculture-based industries.

Minister Vaghani said, “Over 5,000 agri-businesses, including agri-tech enterprises and MSMEs, will receive assistance under this policy. Support will include capital aid, interest subsidy, wage support, technology, training, certification, and export promotion. Micro agri-enterprises, FPOs, SHGs, and start-ups will also benefit.”

The budget also promotes drone technology for smart farming, with Rs 15 crore allocated to support drone purchases for agricultural purposes.

For the fisheries sector, the state has allocated Rs 1,396 crore to strengthen Gujarat’s 1,600 km coastline. This includes Rs 361 crore to develop infrastructure at 104 notified fish landing centres, and Rs 300 crore to provide VAT relief on diesel purchases for fishermen.

Additional allocations include Rs 107 crore for equipment support and aid to families of fishermen stranded in Pakistan, Rs 25 crore for mother vessels, Rs 15 crore for deep-sea vessels, and Rs four crore for establishing a new enforcement wing.

In the livestock sector, Rs 500 crore has been allocated under the ‘Chief Minister Gaumata Poshan Yojana’ to support gaushalas and animal care centres.

The budget also provides funds for mobile veterinary clinics, vaccination programmes, and the establishment of bio-CNG plants in four zones of the state to enhance farmers’ income.

Minister Vaghani expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and Finance Minister for presenting a historic budget that places the welfare of the ‘annadata’ at the centre.

The Gujarat budget for 2026–27 reflects a comprehensive approach to inclusive development, with significant provisions for agriculture, rural livelihoods, fisheries, livestock, research, mechanisation, and allied industries.

--IANS

mys/pgh

Bengaluru, Feb 18 (IANS) The Karnataka BJP and the Congress government on Wednesday traded sharp words over the ongoing garbage disposal row in Bengaluru, with BJP state president and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra asserting that there was no question of fearing what he termed “hollow threats” issued by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.

Responding to Shivakumar’s warning of action against BJP leaders allegedly blocking garbage trucks from entering certain constituencies, Vijayendra said the BJP would not be intimidated.

Speaking to mediapersons in Bengaluru, he said the responsibility of garbage disposal lies with the state government and urged Shivakumar, who also holds the Bengaluru Development portfolio, to focus on addressing the city’s civic issues.

“There is no question of fearing hollow threats. Garbage management is the responsibility of the state government, and instead of issuing warnings, the government should work towards resolving the issue,” Vijayendra said.

He criticised the government, stating that rather than making comparisons with global cities such as Singapore and Dubai or proposing tunnel road projects, the priority should be to address basic civic problems, including potholes and waste management.

Vijayendra also alleged that threats were being issued to apartment associations and emphasised that elected representatives have the right to raise concerns affecting their constituencies. He said the government should focus on finding solutions to Bengaluru’s civic challenges.

Meanwhile, BJP MLA from Doddaballapura, Dheeraj Muniraju, objected to Shivakumar’s remarks and urged him not to insult elected representatives or residents of his constituency.

Speaking to reporters at the BJP state office, Jagannath Bhavan, he said he was opposing the dumping of waste in his constituency due to concerns over environmental and public health risks.

He said he did not require any grants or garbage from the government and questioned why residents of Bengaluru Rural district should bear the burden of waste generated in the city.

Muniraju alleged that unscientific dumping practices could lead to water and air pollution and claimed that waste beyond the permitted quantity was being transported to the area.

He challenged the government to proceed with action if it intended to invoke the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) against him and said he would continue to oppose the dumping of waste in the interest of his constituents.

He added that protests against the dumping of garbage would be intensified with the support of farmers, local residents and public representatives.

Earlier, Shivakumar had criticised BJP MLAs for allegedly blocking garbage trucks and warned of invoking the Essential Services Maintenance Act to ensure uninterrupted civic services. He also accused opposition legislators of obstructing waste disposal and engaging in political pressure tactics.

The exchange marks an escalation in the political confrontation between the ruling Congress government and the BJP over waste management in Bengaluru.

--IANS

mka/pgh

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

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

jk/vd

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

arc/svn

Mumbai, Feb 18 (IANS) As Subhash Ghai's Mukta Arts Ltd. and Green Gold Animation announced an MOU to develop animated shows and films, the filmmaker claimed that animation combined with gaming and AI will make up a billion-dollar industry in the future.

He shared that a combination of these three will be used to tell stories from the homeland.

When asked about venturing into the animation space during an exclusive interaction with IANS, the 'Taal' maker said, "I understand that today you only hear the name of AI, and you hear about animation a little less, just like gaming. But all these three things combined are going to become such a huge industry that you might not have even imagined. It will be a billion-dollar industry, just in India. India has talent, it has content, technicians. India has everything. The only thing is that now our Indian stories will be told through gaming and animation, with AI acting as a supporting tool."

Ghai was further asked, "The way animation is made in Hollywood, do you think it will take time to reach India?"

Reacting to this, Ghai pointed out that given that India is only more than 70 years old, it is not okay to compare it to U.S.

He further stressed that our country has seen a tremendous change in technology in the last 2 decades.

"Look, we are a country 70 years old. That is 250-300 years old. It takes time; we are poor. If you think about what has happened in India in the last 20-25 years, the world has changed. Only Indians can change the world. But we have to cover the distance. There are people who are 70 years old."

Under the MOU, Mukta Arts and Green Gold Animation will work together to develop multiple animated IPs inspired by landmark films from Mukta Arts’ celebrated catalogue, including "Kalicharan", "Karz", "Hero", "Karma", "Ram Lakhan", "Khalnayak", "Saudagar", and "Iqbal".

Commenting on the collaboration, Rajiv Chilaka, Founder and CEO, Green Gold Animation, said, “Together, we aim to create animated worlds that are rooted in these legendary stories, yet designed to connect with today’s young, global audiences.”

--IANS

pm/

Mumbai, Feb 18 (IANS) Actress and former Miss India Alankrita Sahai has collaborated with Punjabi music sensation Karan Aujla for a big music video "5-7".

Talking about her latest release, Alankrita shared that the project allowed her to tap into a different side of herself as a performer.

"Music videos today are not just about glamour; they are about storytelling and emotion. This project is very special to me because it allowed me to explore a different side of myself as a performer," she said.

Speaking about joining forces with Karan, she added, "Working with such a talented artist and a passionate team has been an inspiring experience, and I can’t wait for the audience to see what we’ve created.”

Alankrita shared that working with Karan has been incredibly rewarding for her.

"His passion for music is inspiring. This project is about dreaming big and making it happen. So I guess we made this collaboration happen too. It was fun indeed, and he is so talented and cool to work with," she concluded.

The music video has been directed by Agam Mann along with Aseem Mann, while Shinda Singh is the director of photography. Monty Films and Production have backed the music video, which shows Alankrita as a counselor who is seen asking Karan about the things that are bothering him in life. To this, Karan reveals that there are only 5-7 things that bother him.

Karan has made a name for himself with some banners such as "Jhanjar" and "So Far".

On the other hand, Alankrita has been a part of Bollywood projects such as "Love Per Square Foot" and "Namaste England". Her movie "Band of Maharajas" even made it to the Oscars Coveted Contention List.

--IANS

pm/

Los Angeles, Feb 18 (IANS) Hollywood actor Walton Goggins is joining forces with Chloe Grace Moretz for the upcoming action-comedy ‘Mister’.

The 54-year-old actor and the actress, 29, will lead Thunder Road’s upcoming movie, reports ‘Female First UK’.

Before Walton Goggins boarded ‘Mister’, Josh Brolin had been attached to the action film, but had to exit the project due to scheduling conflicts.

As per Deadline, ‘Mister’ “follows a man (Goggins) who wakes up in a strange house covered in blood and comes to realize his true identity while fighting off contract killers from his past - including everyone from his exes to his best friend. To get out, he teams up with his estranged daughter (Moretz) who also has ended up in the family business, but they will need to repair their relationship in order to survive”.

In a statement, producer Basil Iwanyk said, “Walton and Chloe are the perfect pairing to capture Mister’s heart and humour, while delivering some of the most ambitious and wildly entertaining action sequences audiences will see on screen this year”.

As per ‘Female First UK’, ‘Mister’ will mark the directorial debut of Wade Eastwood, who previously worked on ‘Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning’, and ‘Mission: Impossible – Fallout’.

The filmmaker said in a statement, “From our first conversations, I knew Walton would bring an unpredictable spark you simply can’t manufacture, he’s electric. Chloe brings an incredible mix of strength, vulnerability and razor-sharp timing. Together, they make Mister exactly what we set out to create: bold, funny and completely full-throttle”.

Iwanyk and Erica Lee will produce the through Thunder Road. Walton Goggins could recently be seen in Amazon Prime Video’s second season of ‘Fallout’, which is based on Bethesda Softworks’ post-apocalyptic survival video game franchise of the same name.

The show follows Lucy (played by Ella Purnell), Maximus (played by Aaron Moten) and The Ghoul (played by Walton Goggins) as they battle to survive a post-apocalyptic Los Angeles.

--IANS

aa/

Los Angeles, Feb 18 (IANS) Hollywood star Chris Hemsworth is set to play Thor a few more times after the upcoming film ‘Avengers: Doomsday’.

The 42-year-old actor has portrayed the Marvel hero since 2011’s ‘Thor’ and was last seen in 2022’s ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’ and with his next outing in ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ on the horizon, Hemsworth has confirmed his time as Thor is not quite over yet, reports ‘Female First UK’.

During an appearance on the Smartless Podcast, he said, “I was talking to (Marvel boss) Kevin Feige about it, and he said it’s cool because the audience now expects dramatic turns with the character. And whatever we do next, we’ve got some ideas to do something pretty unique again and hopefully be (different)”.

The actor shared it has been “so much fun” playing alternate versions of Thor with different directors.

He said, “It’s been so much fun. And what I’ve really enjoyed it, unlike a lot of what the other characters that the [actors] were given, they have had to be pretty consistent, whereas working with Taika Waititi on his films versus Kenneth Branagh with those films and then with the Russos, all (the films) had quite a different sort of tonal opinion. But (the Russos) also let me try different things. It’s the same with my tattoos, I’d be getting really bored (with) the same thing and having a real need to kind of throw [the performance] in different directions”.

As per ‘Female First UK’, even so, Hemsworth admitted director Taika Waititi’s version of Thor went a bit too far in ‘Thor: Love and Thunder’.

He shared, “When we made (Thor) Ragnarok, it was quite a twist, with Taika’s (movie). And it was so fun. There was a huge appreciation for the shift. And then (with) Love And Thunder, it was kind of like a Monty Python sketch, and we took the p*** probably a little much, and then there was some backlash”.

“There was this real kind of, ‘Why is he a goofball and why is it like this?’ And, (audiences were) violently offended and we were like, ‘Oh, we’re just having fun or trying to try something different’”, he added.

--IANS

aa/