Amaravati, July 10 (IANS) The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet on Friday approved the establishment of a special court in Visakhapatnam to try cases registered under the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act.

The decision was taken at the Cabinet meeting presided over by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu at the State Secretariat.

Minister for Law and Minority Welfare NMD Farooq told the media that the Cabinet approved two key proposals concerning the Law Department.

According to him, the Registrar (Administration) of the Andhra Pradesh High Court had informed the government of the Supreme Court's directive to all states to establish special NIA courts for the time-bound disposal of cases registered under the National Investigation Agency Act, 2008.

He noted that two notified courts are currently functioning in the state, in Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam, to hear NIA cases. He further said that 20 NIA cases are currently pending in the state. Of these, 19 are pending before the Court of the 3rd Additional District and Sessions Judge in Visakhapatnam, while one is pending before the Court of the 2nd Additional District and Sessions Judge in Vijayawada.

Considering the volume of NIA cases in Visakhapatnam, the High Court had opined that it was necessary to establish a special NIA court at the District and Sessions Judge level in Visakhapatnam with jurisdiction over the entire state of Andhra Pradesh.

The Cabinet approved the proposal to establish the special NIA court in Visakhapatnam with state-wide jurisdiction and to sanction a total of 16 staff members, including a Special Judge, for its functioning.

The Cabinet also approved the creation of the post of Registrar (Court Case and Management), equivalent to the rank of a District Judge, on a regular basis in the Andhra Pradesh High Court.

The Cabinet also approved the establishment of three Centres of Excellence under the Social Welfare Department.

Social Welfare Minister Dola Sree Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy said the Centres of Excellence are being established to provide corporate-standard education to underprivileged students.

The centres will be established from the current academic year at Madhurawada in Visakhapatnam district, Tadikonda in Guntur district and Kota in Tirupati district. Students at these centres will receive free coaching for competitive examinations such as IIT, NEET and JEE alongside their Intermediate studies. Each centre will accommodate 300 students across the first and second years of Intermediate education, comprising 150 boys and 150 girls, distributed across MPC and BiPC streams.

A 50 per cent reservation for girls will be implemented in admissions. Tenders will be invited to entrust the management of these centres to qualified entities, while the government will retain supervisory control.

--IANS

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London, July 10 (IANS) World No. 1 and defending champion Jannik Sinner produced a clinical display to outclass seven-time winner Novak Djokovic 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 in the men’s singles semifinal at Centre Court in London on Friday, sealing his place in the Wimbledon final with a dominant straight-sets victory.

Sinner controlled the contest from the outset with a powerful and precise serving performance. The Italian fired 16 aces, committed no double faults, and won an impressive 88 per cent of points on his first serve, leaving Djokovic with little opportunity to mount a comeback.

Although Sinner converted only three of his 13 break-point chances, those breaks proved decisive as he wrapped up all three sets by an identical 6-4 margin. Djokovic, seeded seventh, failed to convert his lone break-point opportunity of the match.

The statistics underlined Sinner’s dominance. He won 103 points compared to Djokovic’s 81, claimed 41 receiving points to the Serbian’s 17, and was far more effective on second serve, winning 62 per cent of those points against Djokovic’s 41 per cent.

Djokovic managed eight aces but struggled with consistency, committing three double faults as he failed to reach another Wimbledon final.

The victory sends Sinner into the championship match, where he will aim to capture his maiden Wimbledon title after one of the most commanding performances of the tournament.

In the final, Sinner will meet Alexander Zverev, who continued his remarkable Grand Slam resurgence by ending British wildcard Arthur Fery's dream run with a commanding 7-6(0), 6-2, 6-4 victory earlier in the afternoon, booking his maiden final at the All England Club and moving within one win of a second consecutive Grand Slam title following his triumph in Roland Garros.

The second seed delivered a strong performance on the Centre Court, quieting the home crowd after overcoming a tough challenge in the opening set from 23-year-old Fery.

--IANS

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Jaipur, July 10 (IANS) The Rajasthan High Court has rejected the bail applications of three Rohingya nationals from Myanmar accused of living in India under false identities and allegedly trafficking Bangladeshi girls to different parts of the country. A Division Bench comprising Justice Indrajit Singh and Justice Bhuwan Goyal dismissed the bail pleas of Mohammad Usman, Shafi Alam alias Shofi Alam and Rabi-ul-Islam.

According to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), the three accused had been residing in India for several years after allegedly concealing their identities.

During this period, they are also alleged to have made multiple illegal trips to Bangladesh and, before their arrest in 2023, brought around 30 Bangladeshi girls into India illegally.

The agency alleged that the girls were trafficked and sold in Hyderabad, Jammu & Kashmir, Assam and Rajasthan. Several human trafficking cases have reportedly been registered against the accused in different states. The NIA arrested the trio from Rajasthan and Haryana based on intelligence inputs.

Their bail applications were first rejected by a Special NIA Court in Jaipur in 2024, following which they approached the High Court. Appearing for the NIA, Advocate Snehdeep Khyalia submitted that the accused had entered India through the Bangladesh border during 2011-12. According to the agency, Mohammad Usman was residing in Jammu & Kashmir, Shafi Alam in Telangana and Rabi-ul-Islam in Nuh, Haryana, while allegedly using concealed identities. The NIA further alleged that the accused procured Aadhaar cards, mobile SIM cards and bank accounts using forged documents.

The agency claimed that they were involved in bringing Rohingya girls into India and arranging their marriages in different cities as part of a larger conspiracy. It further alleged that the network intended to assimilate the girls into Indian society so that they could be exploited for anti-national activities if required.

Opposing the bail applications, the NIA argued that the accused posed a high flight risk and that statements of several key witnesses, victims and complainants were yet to be recorded. The defence, however, contended that the accused had been falsely implicated, had remained in custody for more than two years and that the trial was likely to take considerable time to conclude. It also argued that statements of several important witnesses had already been recorded.

After hearing both sides, the Rajasthan High Court dismissed the bail pleas, allowing the trial to continue while the accused remain in judicial custody.

--IANS

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Kolkata, July 10 (IANS) West Bengal Pradesh Congress Committee (WBPCC) President Subhankar Sarkar said on Friday that the growing factionalism within the Trinamool Congress is a "Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ploy to create a shadow Opposition in the state which will actually operate as per the instructions of the ruling party in the state".

"Previously we used to say that Trinamool Congress and the BJP were two sides of the same coin. Our conjecture was clear after the West Bengal Assembly election results. The BJP's only agenda is to keep Trinamool Congress relevant in West Bengal. This because to make Congress irrelevant in the state since the BJP knows it very well that Congress is non-compromising as regards to opposing the saffron forces," Sarkar added.

Indirectly admitting that the landslide defeat of Trinamool Congress in the recently concluded West Bengal Assembly polls had given Congress to resurrect its organisational strength in the state, WBPCC President said that none other than Congress would could ensure the freedom and protection of the fundamental rights of people in the state.

"Our leader Rahul Gandhi is the only non-compromising face nationally on this count. So naturally in the present political situation in the state, Congress' popularity graph is bound to rise," he added.

He also said that the decision of the BJP to nominate former Trinamool Congress leaders Sukhendu Sekhar Roy, Sushmita Dev and Prakash Chik Baraik as the party candidate for the by-elections for the three Rajya Sabha seats vacated by the three leaders last month is an "example of how the saffron forces have planed moles in the Trinamool Congress for a long time".

Speaking on the occasion, Sarkar also condemned the recent encounter-killing of Pravas Mondal, one of the prime accused in the recent death of a 12-year-old minor girl, allegedly raped and murdered, at Baruipur in South 24 Parganas district in West Bengal.

"Such an encounter death means that the accused will have no future chance of proving him innocent, which is must in the judicial system. The events of crime against women should be dealt with severely but within the legal framework of the country," the WBPCC President said.

--IANS

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London, July 10 (IANS) Medium-pacer Kranti Gaud struck an early blow to dismiss veteran opener Tammy Beaumont, who’s playing her final international game. But a resilient England managed to reach 21/1 in 11 overs at stumps and trail India by 264 runs on a highly competitive day one of the historic first-ever women's Test at Lord's on Friday.

After bowling out India for 285, England openers Maia Bouchier and Beaumont faced a testing 11-over spell from the Indian new-ball bowlers. Sayali Satghare opened the attack for India, starting with a no-ball, but quickly adjusted her line to test Maia with subtle away-movement.

The breakthrough came in the fourth over when Kranti delivered a superb, incoming back-of-a-length delivery that kept low. Tammy (2) was caught completely in the crease and trapped plumb in front. The veteran chose not to review, though it was eventually hitting stumps via the umpire’s call.

Kranti nearly handed India a massive second breakthrough in the eighth over when she hit Heather Knight on the pads. The vociferous appeal was turned down by the umpire, and India decided against using the Decision Review System (DRS). However, replays later confirmed the ball would have crashed into the leg stump, handing Heather a major reprieve.

Maia, meanwhile, held her ground watchfully and broke the shackles in the ninth over, dispatching a rare loose delivery from Sayali through mid-wicket for the first boundary of the innings.

Harmanpreet Kaur introduced spin in the penultimate over through Sneh Rana, who bowled a tidy, maiden over. In the final over of the day, Maia capitalised on a stray delivery from Kranti by clipping through fine leg to finish unbeaten on 17 alongside Heather, who’s unconquered on one.

Brief scores:

India 285 all out in 74.5 overs (Smriti Mandhana 83, Harmanpreet Kaur 58; Sophie Ecclestone 3-68, Issy Wong 2-41) lead England 21/1 in 11 overs (Maia Bouchier 17 not out; Kranti Gaud 1-8) by 264 runs

--IANS

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Kolkata, July 10 (IANS) Metro Railway on Friday completed tunnelling on a stretch of the underground section of its Purple Line between Kidderpore and Victoria after the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM), Durga, achieved a breakthrough at the proposed Victoria Metro station.

It took exactly one year to complete the tunnelling work between Kidderpore and Victoria.

The work commenced at Kidderpore on July 10, 2025. The TBM will now proceed beneath the Kolkata Maidan towards Park Street. The Blue Line already connects Park Street with Esplanade and beyond.

The breakthrough was achieved at around 10.30 a.m. in the presence of Prem Sagar Gupta, General Manager, Metro Railway, Kolkata.

Among those present were the Consul General of Nepal, the Commissioner of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation, the Commissioner of Police, Howrah, and senior officials of Metro Railway, Rail Vikas Nigam Limited and L&T, the executing agency.

"Engineering excellence beneath the city. TBM Durga achieves breakthrough at Purple Line of Kolkata Metro. Congratulations to the team," Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw posted on X along with a video of the breakthrough.

"The successful breakthrough of TBM Durga demonstrates engineering excellence, meticulous planning, teamwork and the dedicated efforts of all stakeholders involved in the project. This achievement represents an important step towards boosting Kolkata's urban transport infrastructure by providing faster, safer and more sustainable Metro connectivity," a senior Metro official said.

The Metro Railway General Manager appreciated the commitment and teamwork of the project personnel, who ensured safe, methodical, professional and efficient tunnelling while maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety without disturbing surface traffic movement.

The Purple Line, which will connect Joka in the south-west of Kolkata with Esplanade, has been delayed due to land acquisition issues and pending permission from the Local Military Authority, which oversees the Maidan. A few clubs on the Maidan had to be temporarily relocated to facilitate construction. Care has also been taken to avoid disturbing the iconic Victoria Memorial, one of the city's major landmarks.

The Joka-Esplanade Metro corridor comprises an elevated viaduct from Joka to Kidderpore, beyond which the alignment runs underground. Operations have already commenced between Joka and Majerhat, providing connectivity to thousands of commuters. Once completed, the project will benefit lakhs of people living along Diamond Harbour Road and adjoining areas.

--IANS

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New Delhi, July 10 (IANS) The Indian Coast Guard (ICG), which is planning to expand its fleet with modern, state-of-the-art platforms, organised a one-day conference themed "Extending Capability for Distant Horizons" at Coast Guard headquarters in New Delhi on Friday.

The conference, inaugurated by Paramesh Sivamani, ICG Director General, brought together leading Indian shipyards and design houses to deliberate upon the future platforms.

Representatives from Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), L&T Shipbuilding, TAI Engineers, SeaTech Solutions, Conceptia and SEDS, along with ICG's naval architects and technical officers, shared their expertise and perspectives towards development of quantifiable request for proposal for future special-role and multi-role platforms.

At the moment, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) is building six Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels for the ICG. These will be large ships with endurance of 5,000 nautical miles.

This will not only enable the force to reach out further, but allow these platforms to remain at sea for longer periods of time and carry out sustained operations.

These ships will be capable of achieving a maximum speed of 23 knots. Measuring 117 metres in length and having a strength of 11 officers and 110 men, they will also feature state-of-the-art machinery and advanced technological systems, including AI-based predictive maintenance systems, remotely-piloted drones, Integrated Bridge System, and Integrated Platform Management System.

The ICG has also started receiving modern Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) or hovercrafts to replace its existing, ageing fleet.

These hovercrafts are essential for operations in shallow waters closer to shore. They can also operate over marshy land and sandbars. The new ACVs have a high indigenous content.

The day's conference was important as the focus is on the country's Atmanirbharta.

All platforms of the Navy and ICG will henceforth by built by Indian shipyards.

"The conference served as a collaborative platform to deliberate on developing quantifiable and future-ready technical specifications for upcoming Indian Coast Guard shipbuilding projects, enabling the transition from broad qualitative requirements to measurable capability parameters. Discussions focused on emerging operational challenges, advanced ship design philosophies, digital validation, adoption of modern technologies and enhancing the operational effectiveness of future multi-role Coast Guard vessels," an official said.

The Coast Guard vessels of the future, though not heavily armed, would have to be highly technologically advanced to counter modern-day threats and carry out day-to-day operations more effectively.

"The conference reaffirmed the Indian Coast Guard's commitment towards fostering close collaboration with the Indian shipbuilding industry, promoting indigenous capability development and building technologically advanced, resilient and future-ready maritime platforms to effectively address evolving maritime security challenges," the official added.

--IANS

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Hyderabad, July 10 (IANS) Hyderabad E-Champions returned to winning ways, delivering a clinical performance to register a commanding 8-wicket win over EIPL & eleve Karimnagar Diamonds in Qualifier 2 of the Hyderabad Cricket Association's TG20 Season 1 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad on Friday.

Hyderabad E-Champions will face Anvita Khammam Aces in the grand finale of the TG20 on Sunday. Having lost to the Aces in Qualifier 1, E-Champions will be motivated to get their revenge in the summit clash.

Skipper Abhirath Reddy led the way with another glorious knock, scoring 82 off 49 balls, including seven fours and five sixes to become the first batter to score 500 runs in the season. In the first innings, E-Champions bowlers were precise in executing their plans with Purple Cap holder Ajay Dev Goud (2/24), Shanmukha Ashwin (2/24), and Pranav Varma (2/32) each bagging a brace to restrict Diamonds to a modest 157/7 in 20 overs.

Opting to bat first in this must-win contest, Diamonds had a sedate start to their innings with Satwik Reddy and Tanmay Agarwal (10 off 10) being watchful in their approach. They scored 20 in the first three overs before Shanmukha Ashwin dealt a significant blow as he bagged the prized scalp of Tanmay.

Hrishikesh Simha and Satwik added some impetus to the innings, smashing three sixes against Yashveer Goud to score 21 runs in the final over of the powerplay to propel their side to 50/1. The pair rotated strike actively while also finding the occasional boundary to add 40 runs in 23 balls. Akhil Rathod broke the partnership for E-Champions, dismissing Satwik for 28 off 21 balls.

Entering a tricky situation at No.4, Rahul Radesh (28 off 15) got into the act immediately, finding boundaries with regularity to ensure that the scoring rate doesn’t drop significantly for Diamonds. He added 40 off 26 balls alongside Simha, who was given a lifeline after being dropped on 29 by Abhirath Reddy in the tenth over.

In an attempt to up the ante, Rahul’s cameo came to an abrupt end as he was bowled by Shanmukha in the 12th over. E-Champions began to tighten the screws thereafter, conceding only 12 runs in 14 balls. Pranav Varma then delivered twin strikes in the 15th over, ending Simha’s resistance after a 31-ball 38 and also cleaned up Chandan Sahani (7 off 10) to have the Diamonds reeling at 119/5.

E-Champions’ bowlers were exceptional in their execution in the latter half of the innings, ensuring no boundaries were conceded in 48 deliveries. Shubham Sharma finally broke the shackles for his side, smacking consecutive sixes against Dev Mehta in the penultimate over to help them get past 150.

Purple Cap holder Ajay Dev Goud closed out the innings efficiently for E-Champions, only allowing seven runs of the final over and bagging two wickets to restrict Diamonds to 157/7.

In response, Abhirath and Sai Vikas Reddy ensured a steady start for the E-Champions, getting their eye in at 9/0 after two overs. They scored 17 runs off Rathlavath Dinesh in the following over and never looked back. The pair added 56 runs in the Power-play as they continued to put the Diamonds bowlers under pressure.

They went about their business rather clinically from thereon, scoring 58 runs in the next five overs to wipe away a chunk of the target. Abhirath put on a show, displaying why he’s regarded as one of the best batters in the tournament. He amassed his half-century in 32 balls, regaining the Orange Cap in the process.

Sai Vikas also switched gears effortlessly after playing second fiddle for most of the chase as the two openers posted the second-highest opening stand of the tournament (124 runs). Sai Vikas missed out on his half-century as Shubham ended his 31-ball 45-run knock. Abhirath was also dismissed by Akhil Kumar in the 15th over.

However, the damage had already been done. Vaishav Reddy (25 off 12) and Yashveer Goud (4 off 1) sealed the deal for E-Champions with 27 balls to spare.

Brief scores:

Karimnagar Diamonds 157/7 in 20 overs (Hrishikesh Simha 38, Shubham Sharma 31, Shanmukha Ashwin 2/22, Ajay Dev Goud 2/24) lost to Hyderabad E-Champions 160/2 in 16.3 overs (Abhirath Reddy 82, Sai Vikas Reddy 45, Akhil Kumar 1/23, 1/41) by 8 wickets.

--IANS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

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Chennai, July 10 (IANS) Actor Dhanush on Friday announced the title of his next film with ace director Vetrimaran as 'Thamizh Murugan' and released the film's first look promo as well, much to the delight of fans and film buffs.

Taking to his social media timelines to share the promo for the first look of the film, actor, producer and director Dhanush, wrote, "The Eternal Protector, warrior, THE KING & LEADER of the Thamizh people and lands. #sonofkottravai தமிழ் முருகன். THAMIZH MURUGAN."

The film is to be produced by Dhanush's production house Wunderbar Films in association with Production Miles To Go.

Wunderbar films, for its part, shared the first look promo on its social media timelines and wrote, "The Eternal Protector, Warrior, THE KING & LEADER of the Thamizh people and lands. #தமிழ்முருகன் #ThamizhMurugan #SonOfKottravai."

The promo released shows a commander, seated majestically on an elephant and holding a vel (a spear), even as he seems to lead his troops that seem battle ready.

The film is to have music by young music sensation Sai Abhyankkar. The story of the film is based on a book by the same name by well known writer Arivumathi. The purpose of the book penned by Arivumathi was to recall and remind people of the history of Thamizh Murugan as recorded in the Sangam literature.

Needless to say, the news has thrilled fans to bits as every time the ace director has worked with Dhanush, he has produced a critically acclaimed, commercially successful entertainer.

Dhanush and Vetri Maaran have worked together on four films prior to Thamizh Murugan. While their first film together 'Polladhavan' was a huge commercial success, their next film together, Aadukalam was not only a blockbuster but also a critically acclaimed masterpiece that swept six National Awards including the award for Best Actor for Dhanush and the award for Best Direction for Vetri Maaran. Their third film 'Vada Chennai' was again a critically acclaimed success that won several accolades. Their fourth film together 'Asuran' emerged a huge blockbuster that fetched Dhanush another National Award for Best Actor.

--IANS

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Hyderabad, July 10 (IANS) The makers of director Bharat Dharshan's eagerly awaited Telugu film, 'Oh Sukumari!', featuring actors Aishwarya Rajesh and Thiruveer in the lead, on Friday released an entertaining trailer of the film, much to the delight of fans and film buffs.

Ace director Anil Ravipudi took to his social media timelines to release the trailer of the film.

He wrote, "Happy to launch the trailer of #OhSukumari. The trailer looks refreshing and thoroughly entertaining.Feels like another set of tailor-made roles for

@aishu_dil and @iamThiruveeR. Wishing the entire cast and crew a fantastic success on July 17th."

The trailer introduces Damini, a mischievous young woman feared by her entire village for one bizarre reason - anyone who touches her receives an electric shock. Concealing this strange secret, her family gets her married to the protagonist, who has no idea what awaits him after the wedding. What follows is a series of hilarious and unexpected situations, as the newlyweds struggle to deal with this extraordinary problem. How they overcome it together and discover love and happiness forms the crux of the story.

Director Bharat Dharshan seems to have chosen a story with an unusual premise. The story promises plenty of humour while keeping the emotions intact.

The movie boasts a talented team of technicians. CH Kushendar, known for his work in 'Razakar' and 'Polimera', is the cinematographer of this film, which has now caught the attention of film buffs.

Bharath Manchiraju, an associate of MM Keeravani, is scoring the music for this film.

Thirumala M. Thirupathi of 'Balagam' fame is heading the art department, and Sree Varaprasad of 'Ka' fame is the editor.

Aanu Reddy Akkati, who is also working on director Bharat Krishnamachari's much-awaited historical magnum opus 'Swayambhu', has designed the costumes for this film. Popular lyricist Purnachary has penned the lyrics for this film.

Sources had told IANS that the regular shoot of the film had commenced from November 19 last year. The film, its makers say, will release in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam and Kannada languages.

--IANS

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Hyderabad, July 10 (IANS) Director Vijay K Kamisetty's debut film, a high concept, sci-fi entertainer featuring actor Roshan Kanakala in the lead, went on the floors with a traditional pooja ceremony at the sacred Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Kakatiya Hills on Friday.

Hero Nikhil sounded the clapboard for the muhurtham shot, while cinematographer KK Senthil Kumar switched on the camera. VI Anand formally handed over the script to the team and also directed the inaugural shot as a mark of his blessing to the project.

Sources say that the brand-new high-concept sci-fi entertainer will star actors Roshan Kanakala and Gahazy in the lead roles.

Apart from the lead actors, the film will also feature actors Satya, Sudarsha, Ravi and Teja Nannimala among others.

For the unaware, Vijay K Kamisetty has worked closely with acclaimed filmmaker VI Anand for several years as his Chief Associate Director and dialogue writer. Sources say that Vijay has been an integral part of successful films such as 'Tiger', 'Ekkadiki Pothavu Chinnavada', 'Okka Kshanam' and 'Disco Raja'. He now steps into the director's shoes with this ambitious project, handling the screenplay, dialogues, and direction.

The film is based on a story by VI Anand, whose imaginative storytelling and distinctive vision, sources claim, have redefined fantasy and science-fiction entertainment in Telugu cinema.

The film is to be bankrolled by Balaji Gutta and Koushik Reddy under the Gutta Productions banner in association with Kamalakar Film Corporation. Sources claim the project will look to blend fantasy, romance, comedy, mystery, and cutting-edge science fiction into one spectacular cinematic experience.

The film, they say, will seek to transport audiences into an extraordinary universe filled with imagination, emotion, and breathtaking visuals. Designed as a complete theatrical entertainer, the makers assure that every twist will surprise and every emotion will leave a lasting impact.

The film features an accomplished technical team. Sekhar Chandra is composing the music for this film, for which cinematography will be by Anvesh Varala. Well known editor Chota K Prasad will serve as the editor of this film while Brahma Kadali will serve as its Production Designer. Tharun Reddy is the Co-Producer, while VI Anand and Anusha Veluswamy are the Creative Producers, and Bandi Bhaskar and Shailendra Kumar are the Executive Producers.

With pre-production progressing rapidly, sources say regular shooting is set to begin soon.

--IANS

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Mumbai, July 10 (IANS) Celebrated singer Sunidhi Chauhan revealed why she walked away from reality shows during a candid conversation with veteran actor Shekhar Suman during the chat show, 'Shekhar Tonite'.

During the episode, host Shekhar Suman pointed out that Sunidhi made a conscious choice to stay away from controversies and was also no longer seen judging reality shows.

Admitting that this was entirely her decision, Sunidhi said, "I was for a very, very long time. But then I stopped because mujhe laga ki yeh meri jagah nahin hai."

When Shekhar asked what made her take this decision, Sunidhi pointed out that in today's time, the thin line between music production and reality television had started to blur.

"It's a very sad thing. Earlier, auto-tune or Melodyne was used in songs for a certain effect. But you can't do that in a reality show where you're supposed to be all real and honest. Jab woh wahan shift ho gaya, mujhe laga yeh kahin aur ja raha hai... which I can't be on," the singer shared.

While interacting, Shekhar and Sunidhi also shed light on the challenges faced by artists during live performances.

Shekhar referred to various incidents involving singers like KK and Sonu Nigam. He further asked Sunidhi if she had ever had to face such situations while on stage.

Sunidhi thanked her stars that such a thing had never happened to her.

The singer replied, "Main bahut lucky hoon because aaj tak mere saath is tarah ka behaviour maine nahin dekha hai. Bahut pyaar diya logon ne... sirf pyaar hi nahin, samman bhi dete hain (I am very lucky because I have never seen this kind of behavior with me before. People have given a lot of love... not just love, they also give respect)."

The episode of 'Shekhar Tonite' featuring Sunidhi Chauhan is available on YouTube.

-IANS

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