Washington, March 16 (IANS) US President Donald Trump may delay his planned visit to China as the war with Iran continues, the White House said on Monday, even as officials stressed that the meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping is still expected to take place.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the trip remains important to both leaders but acknowledged the timing could change depending on developments in the conflict.

"Yes, so the President looks forward to meeting with President Xi in China. This is a trip I know he's long been looking forward to, and I know President Xi has been looking forward to welcoming President Trump," Leavitt told reporters outside the White House.

She added that "there's a possibility the trip could be delayed", saying the administration would provide updates once new dates are determined.

"I don't think the meeting is in jeopardy, but it's quite possible the meeting could be delayed," Leavitt also said in remarks on Fox News.

Trump's visit to China had been scheduled for March 31 through April 2, during which he was expected to meet President Xi in Beijing. The meeting would mark Trump's first visit to China since 2017.

The White House signalled that the war with Iran is now the US President's top priority.

"No, I just answered the question. It's a leader to leader conversation at this point. The President looks forward to visiting China. The dates may be moved," Leavitt added.

"As Commander-in-Chief, it's his number one priority right now to ensure the continued success of this operation, Epic Fury. So we'll keep you posted on the dates as soon as we can."

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday night, Trump said discussions with global powers -- including China -- are continuing as Washington seeks support to safeguard shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing conflict.

"China's an interesting case study. They get most of their oil, as you know, by far, they get a lot, about 90 per cent through the strait," the US President added.

"So I've said, 'Would you like to come in?' And we'll find out. Maybe they will, maybe they won't."

He added: "They should come in, in my opinion."

President Trump also said the US has contacted several countries about helping police the strategic waterway, through which a large share of global oil shipments pass.

"We are talking to other countries about working with us on the policing of the strait," Trump said, adding that Washington had spoken with about seven countries on the issue.

"We've had some positive response. We had a few that would rather not get involved."

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who is currently leading trade discussions with Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng in Paris, said any adjustment to the President's itinerary would likely reflect operational priorities rather than diplomatic tensions.

"If the meetings are delayed, it wouldn't be delayed because the President demanded that China police the Strait of Hormuz," Bessent said in an interview with CNBC.

"If the meeting, for some reason, is rescheduled, it would be rescheduled because of logistics."

He added that such a decision could reflect Trump's preference "to stay in the White House or to stay in the United States while this war is being prosecuted".

The White House also emphasised that President Trump is closely overseeing the military campaign.

"Of course, the President's utmost responsibility right now as Commander-in-Chief is to ensure the continued success of Operation Epic Fury, as he is doing 24/7 here at the White House, here at home," Leavitt said.

Trump and Xi last met in South Korea in October l.

--IANS

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Kolkata, March 16 (IANS) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday wrote to Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar expressing concern over the removal of several IAS and IPS officers in the state following the announcement of the Assembly elections.

In the letter, CM Banerjee alleged that the sweeping transfers were carried out without any cogent reasons and without any allegation of violation, misconduct or lapse in connection with the conduct of elections.

"A matter of deep concern and surprise is that the heads of the administrative machinery in the state of West Bengal have been removed within hours of the press release announcing the General Election to the West Bengal Legislative Assembly, 2026. This has been done in an arbitrary manner, without seeking a panel of officers from the state government and without adhering to the established convention that has guided ECI–state institutional functioning during previous elections,” the Chief Minister wrote.

The development comes after the Election Commission carried out a major reshuffle in the state administration.

In an overnight move, Chief Secretary Nandini Chakraborty and Home Secretary J.P. Meena were transferred. Several senior police officials, including the Director General of Police and the Kolkata Police Commissioner, were also removed from their posts.

The reshuffle took place hours after the Election Commission issued the notification for the upcoming Assembly polls in the state.

Objecting to the move, CM Banerjee said such actions undermine the spirit of cooperative federalism and the principles of democratic governance.

“It also undermines the spirit of cooperative federalism and the principles of our democratic polity, which form a basic feature of our constitutional governance. The Election Commission of India, as a constitutional authority of the highest standing, is expected not only to exercise its powers but also to uphold the spirit and values inherent in India’s federal structure,” she wrote.

CM Banerjee also urged the Election Commission to refrain from adopting such unilateral measures in the future, saying they risk diluting the credibility and institutional integrity of the poll panel.

--IANS

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Mumbai, March 16 (IANS) Amid the controversy over the production of hazardous polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at the Lote-Parshuram industrial area in Ratnagiri district by Laxmi Organic and its effects on health and the Konkan environment, Maharashtra Minister Pankaja Munde on Monday said the government has appointed the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT) to inspect the production facility and the surrounding area and submit a report within 60 days. ​

She also informed the House that the company has stopped production of PFAS. PFAS are often called “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in the environment or the human body.​

Congress MLC Bhai Jagtap, through a calling attention motion, raised the issue of unrest in Konkan over the production of PFAS. ​

He alleged that a company banned in Italy for PFAS production has been operating in Lote-Parshuram MIDC under a different name and that the same person who was imprisoned in Italy in this case is on its board of directors. He demanded that PFAS production be banned.​

NCP (SP) member Shashikant Shinde supported the demand and called for state government action.​

BJP MLC Niranjan Davkhare alleged that, following action by the Italian government against Miteni S.p.A. in 2018, the same production facility was dismantled and brought to India in 2019 under the name Laxmi Organic.​

In her reply, Environment and Climate Change Minister Pankaja Munde clarified that Laxmi Organic received permission for the production facility because PFAS is not banned in India. She said the company had produced 31.37 metric tonnes of PFAS, but after protests, it stopped production in the last week of December 2025.​

Munde said PFAS is not banned in India, but its production is restricted through stringent conditions. She added that the chemical does not decompose, which raises concerns. She said that after receiving complaints, the government appointed ICT to inspect the production facility at Lote-Parshuram and submit a report. ​

She added that once ICT submits its report, the government will take further steps accordingly and assured the House that no one would be spared.​

--IANS

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Mumbai, March 16 (IANS) The Maharashtra government owes the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) a total of Rs 10,931 crore in pending dues, the Legislative Council was informed on Monday, with the state assuring that the amount will be released in phases.

The outstanding payments include Rs 7,241.38 crore in primary and secondary education grants, Rs 934.28 crore owed by the Housing Department, and unpaid property tax, sewage tax, and water tax dues from various state departments.

During Question Hour, Industries Minister Uday Samant responded to a query raised by Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Sunil Shinde. He acknowledged the pending liabilities and said the government would gradually clear the dues owed to the civic body. He added that the BMC currently has infrastructure projects worth Rs 1,41,356 crore underway.

Minister Samant pointed to a major discrepancy between the BMC and the state’s Education Department regarding pending education grants. While the BMC has claimed Rs 5,655 crore in outstanding grants, the Education Department maintains that only about Rs 200 crore is due.

According to Samant, the difference arises because the BMC is seeking funds based on the Seventh Pay Commission, while the state intends to release grants as per the Fourth Pay Commission.

He said Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani would be asked to find a middle ground between the civic body and the state government. He also assured that the Rs 86 crore due to the BMC under the Right to Education (RTE) Act would be paid before the Monsoon Session.

The discussion triggered a verbal exchange between Minister Samant and Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Anil Parab.

Parab questioned how the BMC’s liabilities were rising even as the state owed it thousands of crores. He alleged that Rs 1,600 crore in development funds had been allocated to ruling party MLAs and MPs over the past three years.

Minister Samant described the allocations as the “price of courage,” prompting a sharp retort from Parab, who called it the “price of betrayal.” Parab compared the funding to rewards once given by the Nizam to defectors.

--IANS

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Mumbai, March 16 (IANS) Maharashtra Minister Shambhuraj Desai, on Monday, told the state Assembly that changes made by the state government to accelerate the redevelopment of dilapidated and dangerous MHADA (Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority) buildings in Mumbai are receiving a positive response from developers.

Within just six months, 10 project proposals have been received, one of which has already been granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC).

The statement was made in response to a "Calling Attention" motion moved by MLA Manoj Jamsutkar regarding the hurdles faced in the redevelopment of 388 reconstructed MHADA buildings.

Members Rais Shaikh and Manisha Chaudhary also participated in the discussion.

Minister Desai said that previous regulations discouraged developers from taking up these projects.

To ensure that tenants living in buildings more than 30 years old receive safe housing, the state government introduced the several incentives, including additional area, floor space index (FSI) premium adjustments and increased incentive FSI.

"A decision was made in July 2025 to provide extra area on top of the rehabilitation component. Following the decision on September 18, 2025, the provision to acquire Floor Space Index (FSI) was set at 25 per cent of the Ready Reckoner rate of the land value, replacing the previous 20 per cent premium structure. The incentive FSI, which previously ranged from 45 per cent to 75 per cent, has been hiked to 75 per cent to 100 per cent," he added.

As a result of these shifts, the Minister said that 10 project proposals received in the last six months, one NOC granted as of March 10 and six proposals submitted under the cluster redevelopment model.

"MHADA administration has been instructed to prioritise and expedite these projects. If all documentation is complete, officials have been directed to grant immediate approval," Minister Desai added.

He told the House that an annual fund of Rs 75 crore has been allocated for the repair of dilapidated MHADA buildings, with a promise to increase this amount if necessary.

He also added that verification of heirship documents will be conducted based on court certificates to ensure eligible beneficiaries face no hardships.

Meanwhile, Minister Desai in the State Legislative Council said that the land owned by MHADA at Dadasaheb Gaikwad Nagar, Malvani, Malad (West) and Mumbai, is divided into two parts.

One part belongs to the Maharashtra Police Federation, while the remaining portion has been developed by MHADA.

He announced that the Federation has submitted a construction agreement for the housing project being built on the land leased to the Maharashtra Police Federation.

The project is expected to be completed by March 2036.

The question was asked in the State Legislative Council by member Milind Narvekar.

"The Maharashtra Police Co-operative Housing Federation is executing the project under a lease agreement for a housing redevelopment scheme. The project is being developed according to the new Development Control Regulations (DCR), which will make 1,071 flats available. The plot within this layout is reserved as a Recreational Ground. Minister Desai clarified that this playground will remain open to the general public," he said.

--IANS

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Itanagar, March 16 (IANS) Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen K.T. Parnai (Retd.) on Monday urged entrepreneurs to create productive assets in sectors that can significantly contribute to the state’s development, stressing the need for investment-driven initiatives to strengthen economic growth and sustainability.

The Governor launched the Business Transformation Programme for Micro and Small Entrepreneurs in Itanagar. The year-long membership and handholding entrepreneurship development programme saw the participation of a large number of entrepreneurs at the launch event.

Addressing the participants, Lt Gen Parnaik (Retd.) called upon entrepreneurs to create productive assets in areas that contribute to the state’s growth.

He highlighted opportunities in sectors such as hospitality in tourism, waste management, coaching for competitive examinations, preservation of local languages, and community information and service kiosks, among others.

Encouraging entrepreneurs, the Governor urged them to make full use of the workshop by actively learning and translating the knowledge gained into successful and sustainable enterprises.

He emphasised that while access to finance and infrastructure is important, the growth of enterprises also depends on strengthening the capabilities of entrepreneurs.

Skills in business planning, financial management, marketing strategies and the adoption of modern technologies, he said, are essential for enterprises to grow, innovate and access wider markets.

Commending the State Department of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for organising the programme, the Governor expressed confidence that the initiative would strengthen the state’s skill development and entrepreneurship ecosystem.

He also welcomed CII’s proposal to establish a Multi Skill Training Institute (MSTI) in the state to provide industry-aligned training opportunities for youth.

Highlighting the importance of the sector, the Governor said Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) form the backbone of India’s economy, contributing nearly 30 per cent to the national GDP and around 45 per cent of exports, while providing employment to over 11 crore people across the country.

In Arunachal Pradesh too, MSMEs are steadily expanding, with nearly 50,000 enterprises registered across sectors such as food processing, tourism and hospitality, retail services, handloom and handicrafts, construction services and small-scale manufacturing.

“These enterprises play a vital role in strengthening local economies across districts,” he said.

The Governor further said that innovation and startups are gaining momentum in the state.

Over the past four years, the Arunachal Pradesh Innovation and Investment Park has incubated 106 startups, of which 38 per cent are led by women.

He added that the state was recognised as a Best Performing State under the National Startup Ranking Framework in January 2025 by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Government of India.

Secretary, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Bullo Mamu also highlighted various initiatives undertaken by the state government in the sector.

--IANS

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New Delhi, March 16 (IANS) A 10-man Punjab FC side produced a resilient performance to hold FC Goa to a 1-1 draw in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2025-26 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Monday. The result saw FC Goa extend their unbeaten run and move to fourth in the standings with nine points, while Punjab FC sit eighth with five points. FC Goa’s Dejan Dražić was adjudged Player of the Match.

However, the Goan side faced a tough challenge and survived thanks to a goal by Dejan Dražić as Punjab led the game till the 53rd minute after Nsungusi Jr Effiong scored in the 27th minute in the key encounter.

Punjab FC head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis made two changes in midfield, bringing in Leon Augustine for the injured Nikhil Prabhu and Samir Zeljković in place of Bede Osuji. FC Goa head coach Manolo Márquez named an unchanged starting XI.

Punjab started the match strongly, controlling possession and creating early pressure down the flanks. The left-back Muhammed Uvais delivered a series of dangerous crosses, and the hosts created the first shot on target in the 15th minute when Dani Ramírez’s corner found Uvais, whose header was safely collected by FC Goa goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari.

The Shers continued to dictate the tempo and were rewarded in the 27th minute. A move initiated in midfield found Manglenthang Kipgen, who threaded a precise through ball to Nsungusi Jr Effiong. The striker showed composure with his first touch, curling a left-footed effort into the top corner to give Punjab the lead.

Punjab kept up the pressure in the closing stages of the first half. Ramírez tested Tiwari with a long-range effort in the 37th minute, while Nsungusi Jr’s attempt a moment later was gathered comfortably by the goalkeeper. Kipgen, too, tried his luck from a distance but failed to keep his effort on target.

FC Goa struggled to clear their lines for much of the half but came close to equalising in stoppage time. Sandesh Jhingan headed narrowly wide from a Dražić cross, while Pol Moreno missed the target shortly after. Punjab nearly conceded an own goal when a header from Uvais struck the woodwork, but the hosts managed to maintain their advantage heading into the break.

The match took a dramatic turn early in the second half. Just three minutes after the restart, Punjab were reduced to ten men when goalscorer Nsungusi Jr was shown a straight red card. FC Goa capitalised on the numerical advantage soon after. In the 53rd minute, Brison Fernandes turned in midfield before laying the ball off to Dražić, who struck a right-footer from outside the box into the bottom corner to bring the visitors level at 1-1. Goa continued to push forward, with Udanta Singh heading narrowly over from a corner in the 60th minute and Dražić missing a free header moments later after a well-delivered cross from the right.

In the 71st minute, Punjab substitute striker Bede Osuji set up Kipgen inside the box, but the midfielder’s effort lacked power and was comfortably gathered by Tiwari.

Goa continued to search for a winner in the closing stages. Mohammad Yasir’s header was saved by Arshdeep Singh in the 79th minute, while Raynier Fernandes and Dražić both missed the target with late attempts. Punjab defended resolutely in stoppage time, with Arshdeep safely gathering a final effort from Brison Fernandes.

--IANS

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Washington, March 16 (IANS) US President Donald Trump on Monday said American forces had dealt a devastating blow to Iran’s military capabilities and called on major global economies to help safeguard the Strait of Hormuz, a vital energy route through which much of the world’s oil flows.

Speaking at the White House during a meeting with board members of the Trump-Kennedy Centre, Trump said the US military campaign against Iran had intensified in recent days.

“Our powerful military campaign to end the threats posed by the Iranian regime continued in full force over the past few days,” Trump said.

He claimed the operation had severely weakened Iran’s armed forces.

“They have been literally obliterated,” Trump said. “The Air Force is gone, the Navy is gone. Many, many ships have been sunk.”

Trump said the United States had carried out a sweeping series of strikes since the conflict began.

“Since the beginning of the conflict, we've struck more than 7,000 targets across Iran,” he said, adding that the targets included “mostly commercial and military targets.”

According to the President, the strikes have sharply reduced Iran’s missile and drone attacks.

“We’ve achieved a 90 per cent reduction in their ballistic missile launches and a 95 per cent reduction in drone attacks,” Trump said.

He added that US forces had targeted facilities linked to Iran’s weapons production.

“We’ve also attacked the manufacturing plants where they manufacture the missiles and the drones,” he said.

Trump also claimed significant damage to Iran’s naval capabilities.

“More than 100 Iranian naval vessels have been sunk or destroyed over the last week and a half,” he said.

He said that US forces had also focused on eliminating ships capable of laying naval mines that could threaten global shipping.

“We’re hammering their capacity to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, with more than 30 mine-laying ships destroyed,” Trump said.

Despite the US military campaign, Trump argued that countries whose economies rely heavily on the Strait of Hormuz should contribute more to securing the vital shipping lane.

“We strongly encourage other nations whose economies depend on the strait far more than ours,” he said.

The President noted that the United States imports very little oil through the narrow waterway compared with other major economies.

“You know, we get less than one per cent of our oil from the strait,” Trump said. “Japan gets 95 per cent. China gets 90 per cent. Many of the Europeans get quite a bit. South Korea gets 35 per cent.”

“So we want them to come and help us with the strait,” he said.

Trump suggested that some long-time US security partners had shown reluctance to contribute despite American military commitments to their defence.

“We have some countries where we have 45,000 soldiers protecting them from harm’s way,” he said.

“And when we want to know, do you have any minesweepers, well, we’d rather not get involved, sir.”

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt earlier told reporters that many countries were benefiting from the US military campaign targeting Iran’s capabilities.

“These other countries are benefiting greatly from the United States military taking out the threat of Iran,” she said.

Leavitt said Iran had posed threats not only to the United States but also to partners across the Middle East and Western allies.

“The rogue Iranian regime has long not just posed a threat to the United States of America, but of course to our Gulf and Arab partners in the region,” she said.

She added that Iran’s missile capabilities also threatened European allies and US bases in the region.

“The ballistic missile capability that the United States military is currently wiping out was a direct and imminent threat to our European allies as well as our bases in the region,” Leavitt said.

The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, carrying roughly a fifth of global oil shipments.

Tensions around the narrow waterway have frequently escalated during conflicts involving Iran, with disruptions raising concerns about global energy prices and international trade.

--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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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

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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

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Mumbai, March 16 (IANS) Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna continue to treat the netizens with dreamy glimpses from their wedding festivities, which took place in February this year.

On Monday, Rashmika took to her Insta handle and published some fun snippets from their Haldi celebration, which also had a hint of Holi.

The 'Pushpa' actress opted for a green off-shoulder dress with golden embellishments. She completed the look with big golden jhumkas, a mang tika, and complementary bangles, with her hair tied in a ponytail.

On the other hand, Vijay looked all handsome in a cream kurta and white pajamas.

Along with applying Haldi to the bride and groom as per the ritual, the festivities also included playing Holi with flower petals and colors.

"Haldi. It was more like Haldi + Holi. We were drenched and dipped in colour so much so that even now my hair still carries a bit of red in it. (sic)," Rashmika wrote the caption.

The 'Animal' actress further disclosed that she ended up winning all the games that day.

"And PS: I won all the games that day with the incredible help of my Team Bride! Just FYI.. even Vijju was Team Bride that day!", added Rashmika.

Additionally, Vijay also uploaded some rare pictures of himself enjoying his Haldi and Holi celebration on social media, along with a caption that read, "25.02.26 Haldi day - The morning after a sangeeth celebration that ran late into early hours of morning :)."

"On another day waking up would have been impossible, but we were all up excited to see each other, excited to spend time with my family and friends...And we had lots of water, colour, music and action to keep us all hyper awake," Vijay added.

Vijay and Rashmika tie the knot on February 26 in a grand ceremony in Udaipur.

--IANS

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Mumbai, March 16 (IANS) Actress Genelia Deshmukh has proved time and again that for her, family is the number one priority.

In her latest social media update, the 'Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na' actress shared a video of showering her younger son Rahyl with love and affection while he is busy playing with Legos.

Genelia revealed that as her younger one was feeling a little under the weather, he asked his Aai to sit with him, as he played. Just like any other mother, the 'Sitaare Zameen Par' actress dropped everything to be by her kid's side.

"When the little one doesn't feel so well but his condition to me is "Please sit with me Aai, while I do my lego" and then Aai drops everything because nothing can be worth more. (sic)", read the text overlay on the clip.

Genelia's feed is flooded with such precious moments with her boys - Rahyl and Riaan.

Recently, she uploaded a video of Rahyl trying to comfort their ailing pet dog, Flash.

In the clip, we could see a visibly unwell Flash resting on the floor while wearing a protective cone around his neck.

The fury friend was seen lying quietly, while Rahyl made sure that Flash did not feel lonely.

Sharing the emotional moment with the Instagram family, Genelia wrote, “When Flash doesn’t feel too well, Little Rahyl makes sure he doesn’t leave his side … Hai main marjavaan.”

Prior to this, Genelia spilled her excitement on social media as Rahyl was given the ‘player of the match’ at his recently held football tournament.

Dropping a video of Rahyl posing with the player of the match card in his hand, Genelia shared, “Most weekends are soccer weekends and Aai - Baba find it very very tiring but when you see these beautiful smiles everything feels worth it and nothing means more."

--IANS

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New Delhi, March 16 (IANS) The Delhi High Court on Monday disposed of a petition filed by Bollywood actress Celina Jaitly, who sought legal representation and consular access to meet her brother, retired Army officer Major Vikrant Jaitly, allegedly "illegally abducted and detained" in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

During the hearing, a single-judge Bench of Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav was informed that Vikrant Jaitly had declined to communicate with his sister and conveyed that any legal decisions concerning him should be taken only after consultation with his wife.

The Delhi High Court was also apprised that Jaitly had already been granted consular access by the Indian authorities. However, he expressed that he did not wish to avail legal assistance at this stage. Taking note of the submissions made before it, Justice Kaurav closed the proceedings and directed the Union government to remain in contact with Jaitly and extend all assistance to him in accordance with the law.

The petition had been filed by Celina Jaitly, alleging that her brother, a retired Indian Army officer residing in the UAE since 2016, had been illegally abducted and detained in September 2024. She had sought directions from the Delhi High Court to ensure consular access and legal representation for him.

In an earlier hearing, the Delhi High Court was informed by the Centre that the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) required additional time to pursue the matter through diplomatic channels and arrange a consular meeting with Jaitly.

Justice Kaurav had then deferred the hearing to March 16, observing that the request made by the Union government for time to facilitate the interaction through the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi appeared reasonable.

The Delhi High Court had allowed the Centre three to four weeks to pursue the issue through diplomatic channels and explore mechanisms, including possible invocation of the India–UAE Mutual Legal Assistance Agreement, to facilitate communication with Vikrant Jaitly.

During the earlier proceedings, counsel appearing for Jaitly’s wife, Charul Jaitly, had also sought to be impleaded as a party in the case and placed certain developments on record.

Justice Kaurav had observed that the writ petition filed against the Union government should not be treated as a family dispute, and further directed the parties not to interact with the media without the Delhi HC’s permission.

--IANS

pds/uk

Director : Aashish Mall, Writers : Anil Agarwal, Nitin Sawant, Rohit Gehlot, Utsav Dan, Duration : 112 Minutes, Rating : 4.5

A lot has been said, criticized, and debated about the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh over the decades. Shatak does something extraordinary—it transforms discussion into experience, debate into understanding, and history into living, breathing moments.

This film is not just about events; it is about the people, the courage, and the unshakable conviction behind one of India’s most influential movements. Ambitiously, it covers the first 50 years of the RSS, with the promise of the next 50 years still to unfold—a cinematic journey that leaves the audience eagerly anticipating what is yet to come.

From the very first scene, Shatak establishes itself as a masterpiece of historical storytelling. One of India’s pioneering films to blend live-action with the most advanced technology, it uses cutting-edge techniques not as a spectacle but as a seamless bridge to bring historical figures and moments to life with stunning realism.

The film’s depiction of Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar is profoundly moving. Here is a man -India's forgotten hero whose belief in discipline, character, and service laid the foundation of a century-long mission. Watching his early years, his humble beginnings and the sacrifices he endured during the freedom struggle builds him into not just a founder, but a visionary whose quiet resolve shaped a movement larger than himself. The simplicity of the early days—the open fields, the small gatherings, the tentative steps of an idea—feels honest, lived-in, and inspiring. These scenes remind us that monumental movements are often born in the humblest of settings, nurtured by dedication rather than spectacle.

As the narrative moves into the leadership of Guruji Madhav Sadasiva Golwalkar, the film’s tone deepens, capturing moments of introspection, tension, and resilience. The film uncovers and builds perspectives to the multiple bans on RSS during the freedom struggle and then following Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination is portrayed with quiet gravitas rather than melodrama. The rebuilding of the organization during this period, depicted with patient attention to detail, showcases strategic foresight, moral courage, and unwavering commitment. The film allows these chapters to breathe, giving the audience a chance to truly grasp the scale and significance of the challenges faced.

Shatak is not only about organizational history—it is about India’s nation-building moments. The liberation of Dadra and Nagar Haveli is depicted with restraint and dignity, a quiet but powerful celebration of freedom. The efforts to secure Kashmir and the guidance provided in turbulent times are handled with sensitivity and precision, reminding viewers that the RSS played a significant role behind the scenes in shaping India’s destiny. These sequences are a testament to courage, vision, and the spirit of service, portrayed in a way that resonates long after the screen goes dark.

What makes Shatak remarkable is its focus on human stories within history. Young swayamsevaks leaving home, families facing uncertainty, volunteers quietly taking on enormous responsibility—the film captures their emotions, fears, and steadfast dedication. Each frame lingers just enough for the audience to feel the weight of commitment and the nobility of purpose, making history deeply personal and profoundly moving.

The team behind Shatak deserves boundless praise. Conceptualized by Anil D. Agarwal, directed with nuance and care by Aashish Mall, and produced by Vir Kapur with co-producer Aashish Tiwari under Ada 360 Degree LLP, the film is a labor of passion, integrity, and belief. Every creative choice reflects respect for history, the organization, and the people whose stories are being told. The filmmakers could have gone for sensationalism—but instead, they embraced authenticity, subtlety, and depth.

Shatak is not just a historical recounting; it is an emotional, eye-opening exploration of conviction, courage, and service. It transforms debates about the RSS into understanding and empathy, showing viewers that behind every movement are people willing to dedicate their lives to an idea greater than themselves. By the end, one walks away with a profound respect for the century-long journey of the RSS, its role in nation-building, and the quiet, unwavering commitment of its members.

In essence, Shatak is a cinematic celebration of belief, resilience, and dedication. It is moving, inspiring, and unforgettable—a film that doesn’t just depict history, but makes you feel it, live it, and admire the men and women who shaped it. The first 50 years are captured with brilliance; the next 50 are awaited with anticipation. Shatak is not merely a film—it is a heartfelt tribute to an idea that refused to bend.

Shatak stands as a masterclass in storytelling, historical insight, and emotional resonance. It is a moving, inspiring, and deeply praiseworthy tribute to the RSS and the ordinary individuals whose extraordinary dedication helped shape the nation.