Amaravati, April 1 (IANS) The driver of a private travels bus that caught fire after colliding with a tipper, killing 14 passengers in Andhra Pradesh’s Markapuram district on March 26, did not possess a valid driving licence, police said on Wednesday.

The police also announced the arrest of the bus owner, Harikrishna Reddy, and the driver, Yuvaraj.

Both were presented before the media by the police in Markapuram. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Nagaraju said the travel company owner had hired Yuvaraj as he would have had to pay a higher salary for employing a licensed driver.

The bus, belonging to Harikrishna Travels, was travelling from Jagtial in Telangana to Kanigiri in Andhra Pradesh’s Nellore district when it caught fire following a head-on collision with a tipper near Rayavaram on March 26.

Fourteen passengers were charred to death in the incident, while 29 others sustained injuries.

The DSP said Harikrishna Reddy had purchased the second-hand bus eight months ago. The vehicle was not in good condition, and despite being aware of this, he continued to operate it.

The investigation also revealed that the bus was originally scheduled to reach its destination via Vinukonda in Prakasam district. However, as the vehicle required frequent repairs during the journey, it was diverted through a national highway.

Earlier, officials of the Fire Services Department had said that the semi-sleeper bus was travelling at high speed at the time of the accident.

The bus collided with the tipper coming from the opposite direction. According to officials, the bus swerved to the right instead of the left and hit the diesel tank of the tipper. Diesel spilled from the ruptured tank, triggering the fire.

Officials said the accident occurred after the bus driver veered into the wrong lane.

According to them, the use of highly flammable material in the bus also contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.

The presence of an emergency exit door helped save the lives of around 20 passengers.

--IANS

ms/pgh

Chandigarh, April 1 (IANS) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday presented a four-year report card of the Rural Development and Panchayat Department as part of the government’s ongoing “Shandaar Char Saal Bhagwant Mann de naal” series, announcing the launch of the state’s first-ever caste socio-economic survey.

Positioning rural development as a key pillar of inclusive growth, the Chief Minister outlined major initiatives ranging from the survey to large-scale infrastructure creation, revenue generation through transparent land management, and youth-focused development programmes.

Emphasising that the caste socio-economic survey, which begins on April 1, will play a crucial role in ensuring equitable and targeted policymaking, Mann said the exercise aims to assess the living standards of all communities while maintaining complete confidentiality.

He said the rural development report card forms part of a broader governance framework under which the AAP government is presenting sector-wise performance across education, healthcare, irrigation, agriculture and other key areas, highlighting its focus on accountability, transparency and measurable outcomes.

CM Mann said, “Holistic development of the villages has taken place in the past four years, involving massive construction work and cleaning of ponds, as the state has generated revenue by removing illegal encroachments from government land and through other means.”

“Due to the strenuous efforts of the state, there has been an increase in consensus for Panchayat elections. There are 13,236 Panchayats in Punjab, for which polls were conducted in 2024, with a large number elected unanimously. In 2018, around 1,870 Panchayats were elected unanimously, but in 2024, as many as 2,970 Panchayats were elected unanimously.”

“This is an increase of 1,100 Panchayats, thereby strengthening communal harmony in villages and ensuring their holistic development,” he added.

He said the Punjab government has enhanced the honorarium of sarpanches from Rs 1,200 to Rs 2,000 per month.

CM Mann said, “Under the 15th Finance Commission for rural development, Rs 2,367.64 crore was spent in 2025-26, which is double compared to 2024-25.”

Referring to earlier spending, he said that during 2017-22, Rs 1,883 crore was spent on village development over five years, whereas the state government has spent Rs 3,847 crore in the past four years for the same purpose.

--IANS

vg/pgh

Kolkata, April 1 (IANS) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday accused the Congress of failing to respond to her appeal for support to the Trinamool Congress’ movement against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, both in the state and across the country.

She also alleged that the Congress did not take the issue of SIR seriously or extend support to voters during the revision process.

“I asked them several times to jointly move against the SIR and jointly approach the Election Commission of India (ECI). But they did not accept our appeal. They did not care about the people when the revision exercise was being conducted. It was only the booth-level agents of the Trinamool Congress who stood by the voters during the revision exercise,” the Chief Minister said at an election rally in Nabagram in Murshidabad district, where the Congress continues to have a strong support base.

Speaking at the rally, the Chief Minister also accused the Election Commission of India of specifically targeting her constituency of Bhabanipur in south Kolkata. “The names of an abnormal number of voters have been deleted from the voters’ list in Bhabanipur. But still I will fight and ultimately I will win,” she said.

According to her, the ECI had targeted minority, tribal and backward class voters during the revision process. “There are many Hindu voters whose names have been deleted from the voters’ list,” she added.

Without naming them directly, Banerjee also took an indirect swipe at the Aam Aadmi Unnayan Party (AAUP), founded by former Trinamool Congress legislator Humayun Kabir, and the Asaduddin Owaisi-led All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), which are jointly contesting in several Assembly constituencies, particularly minority-dominated ones.

“Some people will try to divide votes by making communally loaded statements. Do not let even a single vote be shared. This is the BJP’s game. They buy some people with money. They give cash before the election,” she said.

She also expressed apprehension that some Trinamool Congress leaders might be arrested just ahead of polling. “Probably that is why the ECI has changed the structure of the police administration in the state from top to bottom. But even after that, the Trinamool Congress will not bow down. We know how to fight,” the Chief Minister said.

--IANS

src/pgh

New Delhi, April 1 (IANS) Factors like regional conflict and the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz account for only a portion of the increase in fuel prices in Pakistan, according to a new report, which stresses that the majority reflects "structural mismanagement, delayed reforms, and political considerations".

The Pakistan Observer report mentions that officials described the Middle East situation as an exceptional global crisis, while emphasising that precautionary steps had already been taken to manage volatility and safeguard national fuel reserves.

Following this, the ministers announced a Rs 55 per litre increase in both petrol and diesel. The adjustment raised petrol prices from Rs 266.17 to Rs 321.17 and diesel to Rs 335.86, reflecting an increase of around 17 per cent.

Moreover, the IMF had already been pressing Pakistan to adjust fuel prices, well before tensions in Iran escalated.

It emphasised avoiding subsidies and meeting the annual petroleum levy target of Rs 1.468 trillion. By December 2025, over Rs 822 billion had been collected, underscoring the need to sustain high per-litre levies.

Another key aspect missing from the government’s account is the timing of fuel procurement, Assadullah Channa wrote in the Pakistan Observer report.

Much of Pakistan’s existing stock had been imported roughly 24 days before the March 6 decision, at pre-war prices. Consequently, the Rs 55 increase applied across all available stock, including fuel acquired at earlier, lower prices.

"The structure of the price adjustment also reveals a political dimension. According to reporting by the Express Tribune, the increase in petrol prices exceeded the actual rise in international costs because the government sought to subsidise diesel, which is consumed primarily by agriculture, freight transport, and public transport," said the report.

According to the report, the fuel price hike drove up production and transport costs, pushing wholesale prices of essentials like flour, vegetables, and meat higher.

"Transport fares increased, and retailers struggled to sell staples at official rates. Industry warned of added pressure on manufacturing and agriculture, while Pakistan faces its highest poverty in 11 years and unemployment in 21 years," it added.

It argued that the government’s decision to frame the hike as a consequence of external shocks obscures the underlying issues – "persistent revenue underperformance, reliance on petroleum levies to fill fiscal gaps, and the non-utilisation of contingency reserves designed for precisely such moments".

--IANS

na/vd

New Delhi, April 1 (IANS) The Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) examining the proposed One Nation One Election (ONOE) Bill, on Wednesday, held a detailed consultation with Vice-Chancellors and representatives from several National Law Universities (NLUs), who offered key constitutional and procedural recommendations aimed at strengthening the proposed legislation.

According to an official notice issued by the Lok Sabha Secretariat, the meeting was held at the Parliament House Annexe in New Delhi, with the agenda focused on interaction with representatives from NLUs.

Participants included representatives from NLUs in Lucknow, Patna, Odisha, Kochi, Jodhpur, Meghalaya and Shimla, among others.

The committee engaged in detailed discussions to examine the constitutional, legal and procedural aspects of the proposed amendments.

During the deliberations, the NLU representatives broadly endorsed the objectives of the Bill, noting that measures such as synchronised elections could enhance administrative efficiency, reduce fiscal burdens, curb frequent disruptions due to polls, and strengthen democratic governance.

A key recommendation emerging from the consultation was the inclusion of a "constructive no-confidence motion" provision.

The academic experts highlighted that this model, followed in countries such as Germany, Belgium and Spain, could help ensure political stability.

They said that unlike a conventional no-confidence motion, which may lead to the fall of a government and possible dissolution of the House, a constructive no-confidence motion requires the Legislature to simultaneously elect a successor while removing the incumbent.

This, they added, would prevent instability and align with the broader goal of maintaining fixed electoral cycles under the 'One Nation One Election' framework.

In addition, the universities proposed several technical and procedural safeguards to preserve democratic integrity. These included introducing stronger procedural protections, reviewing the scope of powers proposed for the Election Commission, and establishing a statutory timeline for re-elections in case of unforeseen contingencies.

Members of the JPC raised multiple constitutional and legislative queries during the interaction, seeking clarity on the feasibility, implementation challenges and long-term implications of the proposed changes.

The meeting concluded with the committee asking the NLU representatives to further examine the issues raised and submit a collaborative draft addressing the constitutional and legislative concerns, aimed at refining and strengthening the proposed amendments.

--IANS

sn/khz

Los Angeles, April 1 (IANS) Hollywood actress Jamie Lee Curtis didn’t initially intend to be a screen artiste despite hailing from the family of actors.

The actress always thought she'd be a police officer. The ‘Everything Everywhere All At Once’ actress is amazed to be celebrating almost 50 years in Hollywood because it wasn't how she expected her life to turn out when she was younger, reports ‘Female First UK’.

The 67-year-old actress shared a photo online of herself playing a waitress in an episode of Columbo in 1977, one of her earliest roles at the age of around 19, alongside a current-day selfie on Instagram.

She wrote in the caption, “Next year, I will (have) been an actress for 50 years. I was never going to be an actor. I thought I'd be a cop (sic)”.

As per ‘Female First UK’, the actress reflected on how far her career has come since her early days.

She wrote, “I was telling the story on set of my early jobs as an unnamed waitress on a Columbo episode when I was a contract player at Universal Pictures and now I am a producer, HBIC (head b**** in charge), a costar with Nicole Kidman and collaborator on #scarpetta @primevideo @nowscreamingpv @blumhouse @comet.pictures @blossomfilms (sic)”.

The actress insisted she never had a plan in mind for her career, as she shared, “There was no future tripping. It was just each job, one job at a time, grateful for any opportunity and patience. Lots of f****** patience”.

Jamie recently admitted she has been "self-retiring" for decades. The Halloween star, whose parents were Hollywood legends Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh, has long been aware of the industry's harsh treatment of older performers.

--IANS

aa/

Washington, April 1 (IANS) The United States is positioning India at the centre of its long-term global strategy, with Ambassador Sergio Gor outlining an expansive agenda spanning defence, trade and emerging technologies.

Gor, the current US. Ambassador to India, said Washington is working to deepen its engagement with New Delhi, aiming to transform the bilateral relationship into what he described as the defining strategic partnership of the 21st century.

In an interview to Span magazine, Gor emphasised that his approach is shaped by his experience under US President Donald Trump, highlighting a results-oriented style of diplomacy. “President Trump is the hardest working man in politics. He moves fast and demands results,” he said, adding that his focus remains on delivering “something tangible and positive for the American people.”

He also underscored the importance of leadership-level ties, noting that “President Trump considers Prime Minister Modi a true friend,” a relationship he said strengthens the broader partnership between the two countries.

Defence cooperation remains the most significant pillar of the relationship, according to the envoy. He pointed to the ongoing Major Defence Partnership and a new 10-year framework that expands collaboration in defence industrial production, science and technology, and operational coordination.

Joint military exercises such as Malabar, Tiger Triumph and Cope India, he said, continue to enhance interoperability between the two armed forces. “These three core aspects — diplomacy, defence exercises, and military sales —ensure strong, continued defence cooperation,” Gor said, expressing confidence in further strengthening ties.

“My vision is to transform the US-India relationship into the defining strategic partnership of the 21st century, one that delivers tangible benefits for both our nations,” he said.

“I want the positive outcomes of our partnership to be felt by ordinary citizens — American farmers selling more to Indian markets, joint research breakthroughs in energy and medicine, and both nations’ militaries operating seamlessly together to ensure a safe and secure Indo-Pacific,” he added.

“The US-India relationship is rooted in shared democratic values, mutual prosperity, and common security interests that will shape the global order for generations,” Gor said.

On the economic front, Gor highlighted the potential for expanded bilateral trade, citing India’s growing infrastructure needs and alignment with US strengths in sectors such as energy, aviation and advanced manufacturing. “Simply put, we have a win-win situation in front of us,” he said.

He also pointed to growing cooperation in securing critical supply chains. Initiatives such as the US-India COMPACT framework and the Pax Silica Declaration aim to build resilience in semiconductors, critical minerals and pharmaceuticals, while reducing dependence on single sources.

Artificial intelligence is emerging as another key area of collaboration. Reflecting on the recent AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, Gor said he had seen “first-hand the limitless potential” of US-India cooperation in the field. At the same time, he cautioned against centralised global regulation, saying, “The answer is certainly not to have some global governance board based out of the UN determine what you can and can’t use AI for.”

--IANS

lkj/as

New Delhi, April 1 (IANS) India’s digital payments ecosystem saw a strong comeback in March 2026, with the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) registering its highest-ever monthly transaction volume since its launch in 2016, according to data released by the National Payments Corporation of India on Wednesday.

UPI processed 22.64 billion transactions in March, marking a sharp rise from 20.39 billion transactions recorded in February. The March figure also surpassed the previous high of 21.70 billion transactions seen in January. On a year-on-year basis, transaction volumes grew by 24 per cent.

In terms of value, UPI transactions reached Rs 29.53 lakh crore in March, up from Rs 26.84 lakh crore in February. In January, the total transaction value stood at Rs 28.33 lakh crore.

The value of transactions grew 19 per cent year-on-year in March, slightly lower than the 22 per cent growth recorded in February.

On a daily basis, the average number of transactions saw a marginal increase to 730 million in March, compared to 728 million in February.

However, the average daily transaction value dipped slightly to Rs 95,243 crore from Rs 95,865 crore in the previous month.

Among UPI apps, PhonePe continued to dominate the market with a 45.5 per cent share by transaction volume in February. Google Pay held the second position with around 33 per cent share, while Paytm followed with a share of about 7 to 8 per cent.

UPI is now live in over eight countries, including the UAE, Singapore, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, France, Mauritius and Qatar, positioning India as a global leader in digital payments. UPI’s growing international adoption is boosting remittances, promoting financial inclusion, and strengthening India's position in the global fintech landscape.

According to an independent study commissioned by India’s Finance Ministry, UPI has emerged as the most preferred mode of payment, accounting for 57 per cent of total payment transactions in India, surpassing cash transactions at 38 per cent, primarily due to ease of use and instant fund transfer capability.

--IANS

pk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

sj/rad

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

sps/svn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

na/vd

New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Friday met leaders of several farm unions from across the country at the Parliament House.

During the meeting, the farm union representatives expressed strong opposition to the India-US trade deal and conveyed their deep concern over the potential impact on farmers’ livelihoods, particularly those engaged in the cultivation of corn, soybean, cotton, fruits, and nuts.

The leaders told the Congress leader that they fear the agreement could open the door for agricultural imports, which may adversely affect domestic producers. Gandhi also reiterated his position, stating that the trade deal has opened the door for agricultural imports and warned that many other crops could soon be impacted as well.

The discussion also focused on the need for a large-scale national movement to oppose the deal and safeguard the livelihoods of farmers and farm labourers.

The farm leaders who participated in the discussion included Sukhpal S. Khaira (All India Kisan Congress), Ranjit S. Sandhu (GKS Rajasthan), Adv. Ashok Balhara (Bharatiya Kisan Mazdoor Union, Haryana), P.T. John (KMM Kerala), Baldev (BKU Krantikari, Zira), R. NandKumar (Progressive Farmers Front), Amarjit S. Mohri (BKU Shaheed Bhagat Singh), Akhilesh Shukla (All India Kisan Congress), Kedar Sirohi (Aam Kisan Union), Kiranjit S. Sandhu (Kisan Congress Punjab), Gurpreet S. Sangha (Rajya Sabha), Guramneet S. Mangat (Kisan Mazdoor Morcha - India), Hameed Malik (J&K Zamidara Forum), Tejveer Singh (KMM), Dharamvir Goyat (Haryana Kisan Sangarsh Samiti), Ishwar Singh Nain (Krishak Samaj), and Satbir Khatana (South Haryana Kisan Union).

Rahul Gandhi on Thursday asserted he would not be deterred by any FIR, criminal case or privilege motion and asserted that he would continue to fight for farmers' rights.

In a video post on X, Gandhi had reiterated his opposition to the India-US trade deal, claiming it would severely impact Indian farmers. He alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had "opened the doors" of India’s agriculture market to foreign players at the cost of domestic producers.

"I have spoken the truth in Parliament. If you do not like the truth, that is a different matter. The country understands the truth. Do whatever you want to do. Let an FIR be filed, let a case be registered or bring a privilege motion. I and the entire party stand with farmers," Gandhi had said.

He had said any trade agreement that threatens farmers' livelihoods or weakens the country's food security is anti-farmer. Gandhi also claimed that corn, soybean, cotton and fruit growers would be the first to suffer, alleging that the government would eventually open the entire farm sector to foreign interests and corporate allies.

--IANS

jk/vd

Hyderabad, April 1 (IANS) The makers of director Abhilash Reddy Kankara's high-octane sports-family drama 'Biker', featuring actor Sharwanand in the lead, have now released a pulsating Making Video of the film, much to the delight of fans and film buffs.

UV Creations, the production house producing the film, took to its social media handles to share the Making Video and wrote, "#Biker is born from grit, dirt, and pure adrenaline. Here’s a glimpse into the hard work that made it. Experience 𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐈𝐀’𝐒 𝐅𝐈𝐑𝐒𝐓 𝐌𝐎𝐓𝐎𝐂𝐑𝐎𝐒𝐒 𝐅𝐈𝐋𝐌 in Dolby Cinema, EPIQ, 4DX and PCX. #Biker Grand release on April 3rd in Telugu, Tamil & Malayalam. #BikeronApril3rd."

The video has, among other things, some pulsating racing sequences. It also offers a glimpse into actor Sharwanand's training for the role.

Needless to say, actor Sharwanand is betting big on this film. The actor, in a pre-release event had gone on to claim that this upcoming sports action drama would make every Indian proud to call the film Indian cinema.

Actor Sharwanand had said, "Biker is my best film till now! Why is it the best film? There are several reasons. This is the first Indian motocross film to be made."

He had gone on to say, "What I can promise you is that every Indian will be proud to say this is our Indian cinema. It is not an easy film to shoot. It is the most tough film to shoot. We shot sequences in Indonesia. A lot of accidents happened while we shot this film. We will be showing all that in a making video which we intend to release. It is not an easy sport to show or to act."

Sharwanand went on to disclose that the film had been a turning point in his life.

He said, "Biker is a turning point in my life. It changed me as a person. I had to lose 22 kilos for this film. When Abhi (director) narrated this script, there are two variations in the film. I had to play an 18-year-old guy and a 30-year-old guy. It transformed my whole perspective of cinema making, about my life, my health and body. This film is close to my heart."

The film is slated to hit screens worldwide on April 3 this year.

--IANS

Mkr/

Los Angeles, April 1 (IANS) Hollywood actress Sharon Stone is not really in favour of experiencing intimate scenes on the screen.

The actress has shared that she "fast-forwards" through sex scenes because she wants to maintain the "mystery", reports ‘Female First UK’.

The ‘Basic Instinct’ star, 68, has confessed she doesn't like seeing "harsh sexuality" in TV or movies so she refuses to watch those scenes at home.

During an interview on CBS Mornings, she said, "Often now, when sex scenes come on TV, I fast-forward. I don’t want to see it”.

She further mentioned, “I don’t want to have to go through all of this blatant, harsh sexuality. For me, it steals from my own imagination. And I prefer my yearning, mystery, desire. I want to keep that alive inside myself”.

As per ‘Female First UK’, Sharon also talked about her own most saucy scene in 1992 thriller Basic Instinct, admitting the movie totally changed her career trajectory but it came at a personal cost.

She explained, "Oh my God, it changed everything. In many ways, I feel like I wasn’t protected and taken care of. And then, in many ways, I feel I was punished for the behavior of others. There were things that were bizarrely inappropriate. People treated me in ways that were, very cruel and unkind, as if I was some sort of slatternly, vulgar person ... I mean, you know, I played a character, 30 years ago. Like, grow up”.

Sharon also talked about joining the cast of the show ‘Euphoria’, revealing she knows creator Sam Levinson since he was at school because she worked with his director dad Barry Levinson on 1998 sci-fi film ‘Sphere’.

The actress, who worked with stars including Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney on ‘Euphoria’, admitted she loved being a part of season three.

She said, "We just had a good time. It was marvellous. All of those young people are a part of everything. They're so good, they're so talented. They've developed [these castmembers] into the biggest movie stars of their generation and it's because of their impeccable talent and kindness and grace. It's a joy to be there”.

Sharon recently hinted she might be setting up another career change as she thinks acting on Broadway may be the next natural step for her, saying that she now feels "ready" to tread the boards and enter the world of live theatre.

--IANS

aa/

Chennai, April 1 (IANS) The makers of director Paul George's pan-Indian Malayalam film 'Kattalan', featuring actor Antony Varghese (Pepe) in the lead, on Wednesday welcomed ace music director Ravi Basrur on board the unit of the film.

Cube Entertainments, the production house producing the film, took to its Instagram handle to share a poster that announced Ravi Basrur as the music director.

Sharing the poster, the production house said, "KATTALAN X RAVI BASRUR X CUBES ENTERTAINMENTS @ravibasrur @cubesentertainments @kattalan_movie. Worldwide Theatrical Release on MAY, 2026. A Cubes International Initiative. Shareef Muhammed Presents - ‘KATTALAN’ starring Antony Varghese , Suneel , Dushara Vijayan , Kabir duhan singh, Parth Tiwarii… Directed by Paul George. Music by Ravi Basrur. A Cubes Entertainments Release."

The announcement has come as a surprise to many as earlier, the production house had announced Ajaneesh Loknath, the musical genius behind 'Kantara 2', as the film's music composer.

It may be recalled that the makers of the film had, in February this year, announced that shooting for their film had been wrapped up. While the makers had previously announced that the film would hit screens on May 14 this year, the announcement on completion of filming had only May mentioned and the date of release missing in it.

The production house had won hearts when late last year, it paid tribute to the stuntmen who had worked on the film.

The production house had then released the footage of a four-wheeler turning turtle during the filming of a stunt sequence and offered their salutations to brave stuntmen, whose courage enabled film units to shoot such sequences.

The film has triggered huge interest in fans and film buffs. For the unaware, producer Shareef Muhammed of Cubes Entertainments, best known for making the blockbuster 'Marco', is back with his next ambitious venture titled 'Kattalan', a high-octane pan-Indian action thriller that is being directed by Paul George.

While actor Antony Varghese (Pepe) and actress Rajisha Vijayan play the lead in the film, it will also feature Rapper Baby Jean, Telugu actor Sunil, best known for his performances in blockbusters like 'Pushpa: The Rise' (2021), 'Pushpa 2' (2024) and 'Jailer' (2023), actor Kabir Duhan Singh, known for his intense screen presence and powerful performances across multiple languages and veteran Malayalam actors Jagadeesh and Siddique in pivotal roles.

It may be recalled that the makers had also welcomed actor Parth Tiwari and actor Anson Paul on board the unit of the film. Prior to that, they had got on board promising talent Shon Joy. The model-turned-actor is best known for his performance in his debut film 'Alappuzha Gymkhana (2025)'. He is known to have a strong screen presence and is considered a promising talent.

Story for the film has been penned by Paul George, Joby Varghese and Jero Jacob. The dynamic trio is making its sensational writing debut with 'Kattalan'. Sources say that the writers have blended raw storytelling energy with cinematic vision to craft a gritty, high-stakes narrative that thrusts audiences deep into the world of power, betrayal, and the deadly missions.

The film has choreography by Sharief. Costumes for the film are by Dhanya Balakrishnan and cinematography is by Renadive. Editing for the film is by Shameer Muhammed.

--IANS

mkr/

Los Angeles, April 1 (IANS) Canadian actor Dan Levy has spoken about the one thing that comforted him following the death of his ‘Schitt’s Creek’ co-star and close friend, Catherine O’Hara.

The Canadian actress died on Jan. 30 “after a brief illness”, reports ‘People’ magazine.

During an appearance on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’, the host mentioned that Levy’s first time on the talk show had been alongside his fellow Schitt’s Creek cast members, which included O’Hara.

Levy, 42, told Fallon, 51, after the host offered his condolences, “Listen, it’s like a collective loss, I think. She was the greatest. She’s irreplaceable. The great comfort for me has just been to see how loved she was, you know what I mean? The outpouring. Everyone felt like they kind of knew her”.

Fallon described O’Hara as “one of the funniest comedians I’ve ever seen. Can do characters, Gorgeous”.

Dan shared, “Unbelievably talented at improvising. One of the great, great, great, great queens”. The actress was known for her roles in ‘Home Alone’, ‘Best in Show’, ‘Beetlejuice’, ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’ and others.

The legendary actress starred as over-the-top actress and matriarch Moira Rose in hit sitcom ‘Schitt’s Creek’ opposite Dan, who played her on-screen son, Dan's father Eugene Levy, who played her husband, Johnny Rose, and Annie Murphy, who played her daughter.

After news of O’Hara’s death was reported, Dan shared a tribute on Instagram, alongside two photographs of the pair, writing, “What a gift to have gotten to dance in the warm glow of Catherine O’Hara’s brilliance for all those years”.

“Having spent over fifty years collaborating with my Dad, Catherine was extended family before she ever played my family. It’s hard to imagine a world without her in it. I will cherish every funny memory I was fortunate enough to make with her. My heart goes out to Bo, Matthew, Luke and every member of her big, beautiful family”, the actor added.

--IANS

aa/