New Delhi, May 7 (IANS) Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has approached the Delhi High Court seeking protection of his personality and publicity rights against the alleged misuse of his name, likeness and identity across digital platforms, including through AI-generated and morphed content.

As per the cause list published on the official website of the Delhi High Court, the matter is scheduled to be heard on Friday by a single-judge Bench of Justice Mini Pushkarna.

Tharoor has reportedly sought relief against several defendants, including unidentified persons impleaded as John Doe parties, alleging unauthorised use and commercial exploitation of his persona.

The plea is also stated to seek the removal of deepfake and AI-morphed content allegedly circulating online using his identity without consent.

The development comes amid a growing number of personality rights disputes before the Delhi High Court involving allegations of AI-generated impersonation, deepfakes, fake endorsements and unauthorised commercial exploitation of celebrity identities.

Earlier in the day, the Delhi High Court said that it would pass an interim order protecting the personality and publicity rights of entrepreneur and Shark Tank India judge Aman Gupta in a suit alleging widespread unauthorised commercial exploitation of his identity across digital platforms.

A single-judge Bench of Justice Tushar Rao Gedela indicated that it would pass an interim order after hearing submissions made on behalf of Gupta, co-founder of electronics brand boAt Lifestyle. The suit alleged circulation of fake endorsements, AI-generated impersonations, unauthorised merchandise, fraudulent event-booking services and objectionable online content linked to Gupta’s identity.

The Shashi Tharoor case adds to a growing list of high-profile personalities invoking their personality and publicity rights before the Delhi High Court.

In recent months, former cricketer and current head coach Gautam Gambhir, former cricket captain Sunil Gavaskar, spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, actors Arjun Kapoor, Allu Arjun, Nagarjuna, Kajol, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, and Abhishek Bachchan, singer Jubin Nautiyal, filmmaker Karan Johar, and podcaster Raj Shamani have secured court protection against the unauthorised use of their identity, likeness, or AI-generated imitations.

--IANS

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Bhopal, May 7 (IANS) The Meteorological Centre in Bhopal has reported a sharp contrast in weather conditions across Madhya Pradesh. While thunderstorms and rainfall were recorded at isolated places in the Gwalior, Chambal, and Jabalpur divisions over the past 24 hours, most other regions remained dry.

The weather office in Bhopal has predicted that moderate thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and wind speeds of up to 60 kmph are likely over Sheopur Kalan, Kuno National Park, and southern parts of Morena district during the evening hours on Thursday.

Light thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are also likely over Betul, Chhindwara, Pandhurna, Pench, southern parts of Seoni district, western parts of Gwalior district, Shivpuri, and northern parts of Guna district.

Maximum temperatures showed little change but remained significantly below normal in several divisions.

Gwalior and Rewa districts recorded departures of up to 5.8 degrees Celsius below normal, while the Bhopal, Indore, and Jabalpur divisions reported temperatures ranging from 1.6 to 2.9 degrees below average.

Minimum temperatures also dipped, with Bhopal recording temperatures 5.3 degrees below normal. The lowest minimum temperature was recorded in Amarkantak at 16.1 degrees Celsius, while Sheopur registered the highest minimum temperature at 26.2 degrees Celsius, according to the weather bulletin issued on Thursday.

Narsinghpur recorded the state’s highest maximum temperature at 42.2 degrees Celsius, while Amarkantak remained the coolest place at 33 degrees Celsius.

Rainfall was recorded in Gohad (9.5 mm), Balaghat (9.4 mm), and Waraseoni (7.2 mm). Gusty winds reached 67 kmph at Gwalior Airport and 30 kmph in Betul.

Looking ahead, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds with speeds of 40-50 kmph in 11 districts, including Gwalior, Morena, Bhind, Datia, Niwari, Tikamgarh, Chhatarpur, Panna, Satna, Rewa, and Mauganj.

These regions are expected to experience spells of rain and strong winds on Thursday. The department attributed the turbulent weather conditions to the combined impact of a western disturbance, cyclonic circulation, and a trough line. Meanwhile, heat conditions continue to trouble residents in most other districts.

Daytime temperatures are expected to rise to 42-43 degrees Celsius in 44 districts, including Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, and Jabalpur.

A rapid rise in temperatures has specifically been forecast for Niwari, Chhatarpur, Tikamgarh, Narmadapuram, Ratlam, Neemuch, and Mandsaur districts.

Meteorologists have warned that while thunderstorms and light rain may persist in northern and eastern districts for the next two days, the intensity of heat is likely to increase significantly from May 9 and 10.

A fresh weather system is likely to become active from May 10, with its impact becoming more visible over the subsequent two days. Residents have been advised to remain cautious, stay hydrated, and avoid prolonged exposure during peak afternoon hours as the state braces for a mix of thunderstorms in some regions and intensifying heat in others.

--IANS

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New Delhi, May 7 (IANS) Taking a strong view, the NHRC has sought a report from Himachal Pradesh after a media report alleged that 19 women students contracted tuberculosis in the hostel of a Nursing College in Shimla, an official said.

Taking suo motu cognisance of a media report over the alleged incident, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) issued a notice to the Chief Secretary, Himachal Pradesh, calling for a detailed report on the matter within two weeks.

Reportedly, during two recent inspections of the premises, serious deficiencies were observed in the management of the hostel, including sanitation and overall institutional functioning. However, no corrective measures were taken by the authorities, and as a result, the students contracted tuberculosis.

The Commission observed that the contents of the media report, if true, raise a serious issue of violation of human rights.

The media report, carried on May 2, highlighted several shortcomings based on the two inspections of the institutions held on March 31 and April 17.

The students at the hostel face overcrowded, damp, and unhygienic living conditions with severely inadequate sanitation. Food quality is poor and lacks basic nutrition. They are reportedly denied rest during illness and forced to work as “hospital staff” even on holidays, an NHRC statement said.

In a separate case, the NHRC sought a report within two weeks from the Jharkhand government and the district police chief over the death of a 19-year-old woman inmate of a remand home in the Charki Pahadi area of the Deoghar district earlier this month, an official said.

The NHRC took suo motu cognisance of a media report about the death of a 19-year-old female inmate on May 2, allegedly under suspicious circumstances. The cause of her death is yet to be ascertained.

The NHRC observed that the contents of the media report, if true, raise a serious issue of violation of human rights.

It issued notices to the Chief Secretary, Government of Jharkhand, and the Superintendent of Police, Deogarh, calling for a detailed report on the matter within two weeks.

According to the media report, carried on May 4, when the inmate’s condition suddenly deteriorated, the Remand Home staff rushed her to the Deoghar Sadar Hospital, where she died during treatment.

Reportedly, five inmates of this Remand Home have died since January 1 2026, raising questions about its security and arrangements, said a statement.

--IANS

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New Delhi, May 7 (IANS) Delhi Capitals' poor decision-making when under pressure and Kuldeep Yadav's dip in form have emerged as the two biggest factors behind the franchise's stuttering IPL 2026 campaign, according to former India fast bowler Irfan Pathan, who believes the side has the firepower to finish in the top four but have failed to live up to its considerable potential in the ten-team competition.

With the playoff race entering its critical phase, seventh-placed DC find themselves grappling with two stubborn problems – chopping and changing in team selection and a baffling inability to win at home. Delhi have used 20 players this season, joint-second most in IPL 2026 alongside Chennai Super Kings and Lucknow Super Giants.

The chopping and changing has been most visible in the middle order, where as many as seven different batters have been tried from four to seven — Tristan Stubbs (9 innings), Sameer Rizvi (7), David Miller (6), captain Axar Patel (6), Ashutosh Sharma (3), Karun Nair (1) and Abishek Porel (1) - leaving little room for role clarity or settled batting combinations.

“I think, last year as well as this year, Delhi was a team that was to be a shoo-in contender for being in the top four. If you look at the players, they are very experienced and well-established players in this team. If you talk about KL Rahul, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mitchell Starc, and even Lungi Ngidi, who did well in the World Cup, we all know that his variation gives a lot of problems to the big players.

“If you look at Miller this season, he’s also there to solve DC’s issue with a lack of experience in finishing games last year. But I think that the match against the Gujarat Titans, in which they lost on the last ball, will haunt them big time because, yes, it is not easy to take responsibility for any player and say that I will win the match, and every player wants to do that. But many times you take the wrong decision under pressure,” Pathan, an expert on JioHotstar's 'Champions Waali Commentary', told IANS in a virtual interaction on Thursday.

The selection inconsistency was on full display in the CSK game, where Karun Nair was drafted in as a replacement for Rizvi, only for the latter to return as the impact player once the former was dismissed. Compounding the selection headache is an alarming home record – DC have won just one of their five games at the Arun Jaitley Stadium this season, against the Mumbai Indians last month, and the rot stretches further back.

Since IPL 2025, DC have managed only two wins in ten home games, a record that raises serious questions about their reading of home conditions. Adding another layer to their woes is DC losing all three games while batting first, while their record in chasing stands at four wins from seven attempts.

Their bowling unit has been the poorest among all teams this season, claiming just 41 wickets so far at an economy rate of 10.2. All of this is something DC urgently needs to address as they prepare to face Kolkata Knight Riders on Friday evening in a bid to keep their playoff hopes alive.

“See, I think two things have been a big factor for Delhi Capitals - one, I think decision-making could have been better. If we talk about the last game, winning the toss, batting first, and thinking that the conditions would get better later, was an issue.

“Especially when the match against RCB, a few days ago, on the same ground, they were batting first and were 75 out. That day, there was a weather issue, and in this match against CSK, it also rained, and there was a possibility of the weather being inclement.

“So you want to chase there, and you had even won the toss too. So, a little decision-making, I think, there was a little problem in that. Then, the availability of Mitchell Starc, not being there at the start of the season, was a problem. But I think they could have used their resources better,” added Pathan, who picked 29 wickets in 46 games for DC from 2011-13 IPL seasons.

Add to it, Kuldeep’s form has emerged as a major concern for DC this season, with the left‑arm wrist spinner conceding at 10.4 runs per over, picking only seven wickets and going wicketless in five of his nine outings. His overall economy of 10.4 is the highest in any IPL season, surpassing his previous worst economy rate of 8.7 in 2019 and 2024.

The left-arm wrist spinner has conceded at less than 10 runs per over in only two matches (against LSG and RCB), while in seven games, he has gone above that mark. “Secondly, Kuldeep Yadav not being in form, this is a big problem for Delhi because you depend on him, right? Especially on a turning track, where there was a little help in the pitch, and if you concede runs and don't even take a wicket, then it's a matter of concern.

“Look, he’s a very good bowler, and there are no two ways about it. But going above 10 runs per over, for any team, you would expect much better performance from your main spinner. So these are 2-3 things, in which Delhi could have been much better. If it had been the case, then maybe their team would have played according to that potential, and they would have seen better results,” added Pathan.

On his experience with the 'Champions Waali Commentary' - a feed aimed at Hindi-speaking audiences that features more deliberate, in-depth analysis compared to conventional commentary - Pathan said the format was allowing for richer cricketing conversations.

“I'm absolutely loving it. Our camaraderie, especially with our other co-commentators, is that they have different opinions, and we also have different opinions. So the viewers get a different and fresh perspective, and in comparison to the normal, conventional commentary, there’s a slight difference in its pace.

“In that, there is a very fast commentary, which is our normal Hindi commentary. In the Champions walli commentary, it runs at its own pace, but with more detail and knowledge, for our viewers, this is the feed, and we are trying to move forward in that regard,” he added.

Champions Wali Commentary is a dedicated digital feed in Hindi on CTV featuring former TATA IPL champions who share never-heard-before tales and an insight into players’ minds as live action plays out.

--IANS

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Itanagar, May 7 (IANS) Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday announced the strengthening of the Creative Economy Cell within the Chief Minister’s Office to provide institutional support for the state’s emerging creative sector.

He said that the cell will serve as a bridge between local talent and the global industry by facilitating industry linkages, mentorship opportunities, and career progression pathways.

In a major move to institutionalise the state’s creative sector, Khandu chaired a high-level review meeting on Thursday with organisers of premier state events.

The Chief Minister unveiled a vision to transform standalone competitions into a ‘structured talent pipeline’, ensuring that the state’s youth can transition from the stage to sustainable professional careers in the global entertainment industry.

The meeting focused on the six flagship platforms, including Miss, Mr and Mrs Arunachal, Arunachal’s Got Talent, Arunachal Super Dance, and Arunachal Idol.

Addressing the organisers, Khandu emphasised that cultural events must serve as more than just annual spectacles.

“Our goal is to ensure that every event moves beyond being a standalone competition and instead evolves into a structured talent pipeline,” Khandu stated.

He emphasised that every platform must have a clear roadmap to guide the participants towards professional opportunities in music, fashion, media, and the performing arts.

“We are not just looking for performers; we are building careers,” he added.

In a significant revelation regarding industry expansion, the Chief Minister noted that the state is looking towards digital giants to amplify local voices.

He informed that strategic collaborations, including with global platforms such as Spotify, are being explored to handhold emerging singers and help them reach wider audiences.

“We want the world to engage with and appreciate our indigenous music, art, and cultural expressions,” Khandu stressed.

He further cited the ‘Ziro Festival of Music’ in Lower Subansiri district as a successful blueprint for promoting independent musicians and pledged continued support to strengthen all similar initiatives.

In another move to ensure professionalism and long-term planning, the state government is finalising a fresh agreement with all six major event organisers.

This agreement will extend their association for five years under the official state calendar of events.

The meeting also highlighted the closing of technical gaps within the state.

Previously dependent on outside expertise, Arunachal’s creative ecosystem is now producing its own sound engineers, lighting professionals, and technical experts.

“The creative economy is emerging as a powerful pillar of growth in Arunachal Pradesh. We are seeing a shift where our youth and women are not just performers, but entrepreneurs, evolving from singers into composers and from models into fashion designers,” Khandu added.

The initiative is being spearheaded under the Arunachal Pradesh Regulatory Board of State Events, chaired by Mallo Attu.

The board will oversee the implementation of these new standards to ensure that the state continues its upward trajectory in the national entertainment and Bollywood circuits.

--IANS

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Aizawl, May 7 (IANS) Union Minister of State for Petroleum & Natural Gas and Tourism Suresh Gopi on Thursday stressed the need for focused and sustained efforts to promote the export of Mizoram’s horticulture and agricultural products to markets across India as well as abroad.

Mizoram was declared the “Ginger Capital of India” by NITI Aayog last year in recognition of its large-scale ginger production and growing contribution to the sector.

The Union Minister underscored Mizoram’s strategic importance, despite its relatively small population and compact geographical area.

The state is uniquely positioned at the tri-junction of India, Myanmar, and Bangladesh, making it a key player in India’s Act East Policy.

Gopi expressed his satisfaction that Mizoram is gradually achieving better connectivity, particularly with the ongoing development of a good railway network.

He also pointed out the importance of exploring ways to establish more hydro-electric projects so the state can become self-sufficient in its power needs.

The Union Minister of State on Thursday visited Kolasib and held an interactive meeting with the head of offices of various government departments within the district at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall, Kolasib.

During the session, a brief profile and the general overview of Kolasib district were showcased through a Power Point presentation.

The visiting Minister expressed his pleasure at being able to meet the people and government officials of Kolasib.

Highlighting the significance of conducting a Census for the nation's progress, he stated that because a Census provides an accurate understanding of the people's living conditions and demographic realities, it is exceptionally crucial for formulating government planning and development strategies.

The Union Minister also pointed out the importance of exploring ways to establish more hydro-electric projects so the state can become self-sufficient in its power needs.

Emphasising the importance of education, the Minister spoke about the necessity of having more Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs).

Expressing concern that there is currently only one KV in the entire state of Mizoram, he suggested that the matter of increasing the number of KVs should be taken up with the Members of Parliament (MPs).

Noting that women's education plays a highly influential role in a nation's development, Gopi stated that it is important to take proactive steps to encourage more women to pursue fields like nursing.

Stating that basic foundational and school education have a profound impact on children's lives, he added that as long as the quality and standard of education are well-maintained, children can reach great heights in their futures.

Noting that Mizoram possesses fertile land capable of producing excellent crops, he emphasised the need to make dedicated efforts to export horticulture and agriculture products not only to other states but also internationally.

During this interactive session, the various departments briefed the Minister on their general functioning and officially submitted their respective requirements and grievances to him.

After concluding the meeting, Union Minister Gopi paid a site visit to the Oil Palm Processing Mill in Bukvannei, where he directly interacted with the local oil palm farmers.

--IANS

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Bhubaneswar, May 7 (IANS) In a shocking incident of mob lynching, a police constable was beaten to death following a road mishap and allegations of sexually abusing a girl on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar under the Balianta police limits on Thursday.

The deceased was identified as Soumya Ranjan Swain, 32, of the Adashpur area in Cuttack district. Swain was working as a constable in the Government Railway Police (GRP) branch of Odisha Police.

According to the deceased’s family members, Soumya, who had earlier been placed under suspension, was recently reinstated by the police.

Local sources said Swain, along with his friend Om Prakash Rout, was coming towards Bhubaneswar when they came across two girls travelling on a scooter. While overtaking the vehicle, the deceased’s motorcycle hit the scooter of the girls, reportedly ensuing in a heated argument near a bridge at Ramachandrapur under Balianta police limits. Meanwhile, the local villagers rushed to the spot to help the girls, who reportedly belong to a nearby village.

They later brutally assaulted the deceased and his friend by tying their hands and legs with a rope. Upon being informed, the police team reached their destination and rescued the duo and rushed them to Capital hospital, where Swain was declared dead.

Speaking to media persons, Bhubaneswar DCP Jagmohan Meena said, “Three parties are involved in the case. First, the two girls are travelling on a scooter. Second, the two youths who initially saw them later overtook them and, after making a U-turn, rammed their vehicle into the scooter. The third party comprises local villagers who rushed to the spot to save the girls and assaulted one of the youths, who subsequently died.”

He also added that the police managed to elicit vital details during the interrogation of the deceased’s friend, Om Prakash Patra. DCP Meena further informed that one of the girls involved in the case has lodged an FIR against the deceased, alleging an attempt to rape. He said police have also recorded the statement of the girl.

The people involved in the lynching are being identified from videos available to the police. The DCP said that legal actions will be taken against people found to be involved in the lynching of the youth.

--IANS

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New Delhi, May 7 (IANS) Amid the global alarm, the World Health Organization (WHO) on Thursday confirmed five hantavirus cases linked to cruise ship outbreak, while three additional cases remain suspected.

WHO has now informed 12 countries whose nationals disembarked the cruise ship MV Hondius earlier during the voyage at the remote British territory of Saint Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean.

Those 12 countries are Canada, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a media briefing in Geneva that the agency currently expects the outbreak to remain “limited” if appropriate public health measures are implemented quickly and effectively.

He, however, warned that additional cases remain possible as authorities continue tracing exposed passengers and contacts across multiple countries.

WHO said around 2,500 hantavirus diagnostic kits are being shipped from laboratories in Argentina to five countries.

There are 149 people on the MV Hondius, the ship's Dutch operator Oceanwide Expeditions told the media. There are 23 nationalities on board.

Meanwhile, two suspected hantavirus patients evacuated from the cruise ship MV Hondius remained aboard a grounded air ambulance in Spain's Canary Islands while awaiting a replacement aircraft following a technical malfunction, Spain's Health Ministry said.

The aircraft had departed from Cape Verde and was originally expected to refuel in the western Moroccan city of Marrakesh en route to Amsterdam. However, according to Spanish media reports, Moroccan authorities did not authorise the landing.

"During the refuelling stop, the plane's doctor reported a failure in the patient's electrical support system," Spain's Health Ministry said in a statement.

Earlier, Spain announced that it will receive the hantavirus-linked vessel MV Hondius in the Canary Islands in accordance with international law and the spirit of humanitarianism, the Spanish Health Ministry said in a statement on social media.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) is conducting a comprehensive assessment of the situation on board to determine which individuals require urgent evacuation in Cape Verde. The remaining passengers and crew will continue to the Canary Islands, with arrival expected within three to four days.

—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

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

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Mumbai, May 7 (IANS) Actress Sangita Ghosh, in a rare expression has spoken about her daughter Devi ahead of Mother's Day.

Sangita Ghosh who portrays the character of Gulab in the show ‘Tu Juliet Jatt Di’ shared, “Holding my daughter Devi for the first time changed something in me permanently. I don't think I will ever be able to fully put it into words. You suddenly understand every mother who has ever loved their little bundle of joy.”

She added, “That realisation has given an entirely different dimension to how I essay the role of a mother. In Tu Juliet Jatt Di, Gulaab is an overprotective mother whose love for her son Nawab is absolute and all-consuming, but the show explores something that I think every family quietly grapples with - the very thin line between protecting your child and not letting them grow.”

She added, “Being a mother myself, I understand that love, but I also understand the responsibility that comes with it, to raise a child who feels free, not just loved. This Mother's Day, I want to celebrate every mother who is brave enough to loosen her grip, even when every instinct tells her not to. That, to me, is the most courageous kind of love. Happy Mother's Day!”

Actress Sneha Wagh who essays an important role in Mahadev Vs Mahadev, spoke about her mother and her childhood memories around her.

“Growing up, my mother made running the household look so effortless that it took me a while to grasp the kind of effort it takes to pull that off. It was only when I stepped out into the world, started working, started living away from home, that it hit me all at once.”

She added, “Every value I stand by every time I choose kindness over convenience, I know it’s her upbringing that has become like a muscle memory. Playing Vidya in Mahadev & Sons brought me the opportunity to depict her mannerisms on screen. Vidya is the kind of woman who holds an entire family together without anyone fully realising she's doing it; she is the glue, the warmth, the constant that everyone comes back to.”

She added, “I have seen that woman. I grew up with her. And I think that's why this role feels so close to my heart. This Mother's Day, I don't want to say anything grand. I just want her to know that I appreciate her more than words can convey and everything I am, I owe it to her. I love you, Mom.”

---IANS

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Mumbai, May 7 (IANS) With Mother's Day around the corner, Nia Sharma and Ankita Lokhande have spoken about their mothers and all the strength they derive from them.

Nia Sharma who is currently seen as a part of ‘Laughter Chefs Unlimited Entertainment’, shared, “My strength is a direct inheritance from my mother. I watched her navigate life with an incredible resilience that grew into the confidence I carry today.”

She added, “People see my spirit and recognize the security of having a woman behind me who always encouraged me to take up space. I have always felt that you don’t really need anything extravagant, just take your parents along and everything somehow becomes funnier and more special. I still laugh thinking about that one trip where we lost her on a hop-on hop-off bus, only to find her hours later sitting on the roof, chilling and capturing videos of the entire city while we were panicking and alerting everyone around. That’s just her, effortlessly turning chaos into a memory we will laugh about forever.”

She added, “This year felt even more special because I got to shoot with her on Laughter Chefs and we cooked an amazing meal together. Having her there, in my work world, sharing that moment with me, meant everything. No matter what I do, I know I can never match everything she’s done for me, but I’ll keep trying in the most honest way possible. Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing moms out there!”

Television superstar Ankita Lokhande who is seen in ‘Laughter Chefs Unlimited Entertainment’, shares, “Some blessings in life come doubled, and for me, that blessing is having two mothers to love, guide, and protect me.”

“One gave me life, and the other – my mother-in-law embraced me as her own, giving me strength, warmth, and another home filled with unconditional love. Every day, I feel incredibly grateful for both of them - their prayers are my biggest strength, and their happiness is all that matters to me. How wonderful it is to have had both my mother’s grace, Laughter Chefs, a show that is very close to my heart. Happy Mother’s Day to my two pillars of strength and all the mothers doing a fab job raising children!”

Mother's Day falls on the 8th of May.

–IANS

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Mumbai, May 7 (IANS) Popular television actress Deepika Singh, who essays the role of Mangal in the show "Mangal Lakshmi", revealed that being a mother is her ultimate calling.

Speaking on Mother's Day, Deepika shared that being a mother to her son, Soham, has been a transformative journey for her.

She said, “Motherhood continues to be the most transformative journey of my life - one that keeps evolving with every passing day. As an actor, I’ve portrayed many roles on screen, but being a mother to my son, Soham, is my ultimate calling; it’s truly the role of a lifetime. He has this beautiful way of reminding me to slow down and cherish the little moments that matter."

Deepika further shed light on her experience of playing a mother on screen as well.

The 'Diya Aur Baati Hum' actress went on to add, "Playing a mother in Mangal Lakshmi always feels even more personal and layered. When I’m enacting scenes with the children on the show, there are moments when it genuinely feels like I’m with Soham. I often tell my son that I see him reflected in my onscreen kids and that just as beautifully, he sees me in the strong, nurturing women around him: his dadi, nani, maasi, chachi, and even his teacher. It is my way of helping him understand that love, care, and guidance come from many forms. There are days on set when I miss him a lot, but those video calls, his laughter, and even the smallest conversations instantly recharge me."

Deepika added that she wants her son to know this version of her as a working mother.

"When children see their mothers working, they learn early on that ambition requires dedication and that a woman’s identity is multifaceted", she added.

"This Mother’s Day, I celebrate not just being a mother, but also the incredible strength of every woman who nurtures, loves, and balances it all so beautifully," Deepika concluded.

--IANS

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Mumbai, May 7 (IANS) Tamil cinema legend Kamal Haasan has come out in support of actor and politician Vijay, whose party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam emerged as the single largest party in the recently concluded Tamil Nadu assembly elections.

On Thursday, Kamal took to his X, formerly Twitter, and penned a long note in which he also lauded the political maturity of M K Stalin.

He wrote in Tamil, “In the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections, the people have not granted any single party the authority to form a government independently. This outcome is unprecedented in the history of Tamil Nadu. My brother, Mr. @mkstalin has announced, ‘We respect the people's verdict; we will function as a responsible opposition’. I respect his political maturity. Those currently in constitutional positions must now fulfill the same duty. This is not a demand, but a reminder of their constitutional obligation. The Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, led by Mr. @TVKVijayHQ , has won 108 seats”.

“Not inviting him to form the government would amount to disrespecting the mandate of the people of Tamil Nadu. 233 elected members are still unable to take their oaths. This is an insult to the state; it is damage to democracy. In the S.R. Bommai case, the Supreme Court has clearly stated, ‘Majority must be proven in the Legislative Assembly, not in Raj Bhavan’. What I am speaking is not party politics. This is the policy voice of an Indian citizen. The verdict of the people of Tamil Nadu must be respected (sic)”, he added.

Vijay’s party won 108 seats out of the 234 seats in Tamil Nadu. The majority mark in Tamil Nadu is 118 seats, and the actor needs support from 10 MLAs to form the government. Vijay’s election win marked a historic win in the state given it fought its elections and emerged as the single largest party.

--IANS

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