Kolkata, April 9 (IANS): Mukul Choudhary said his only focus during the chase was to stay till the end, a plan that ultimately helped Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) pull off a thrilling last-ball win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 15th match played at Eden Gardens on Thursday.

Chasing 182, LSG were under pressure in the final overs, but Choudhary held his nerve and turned the game around with fearless hitting. He smashed crucial sixes in the closing stages, including two in the final over, to take his team over the line.

“My aim was to bat till the last and see what happens. It was only my second match. God has given me this opportunity; there can be pressure, but it is also an opportunity to make a name for myself,” Choudhary said after being named Player of the Match for his unbeaten 54 off 27 balls.

Choudhary also reflected on his journey into cricket. “My journey started when my father was not even married; he dreamed that his son would play cricket. I started at the age group level, but there were no good academies in Sikkim. I played matches in Delhi and Guragaon, and that helped me,” he said. “When I was playing against U19 versus UP, it was a low-scoring game, and I made a contribution, so he knew then that I would make it big,” he added,

The youngster highlighted his natural attacking approach. “Even I liked the first six; I had not scored a single six in two games, so the first one was special. In my mind, I knew one out of the four balls would be in the slot, and I was just waiting for it,” he said.

“From younger days, I like hitting sixes and not playing along the ground,” Choudhary added, underlining the aggressive mindset that powered LSG to victory.

LSG captain Pant was full of praise for the youngster’s performance. “When we see him in the nets, when you see someone, you can see that.. When you do it in the match, I have no words to describe it. But what a fantastic effort,” he said.

Pant also highlighted the importance of backing players. “One thing I make sure of is the trust, as a captain and the management, having trust plays a big role. Definitely, it is the character, every match someone is putting their hand, something is building for sure, we don't want to talk too much, but something good is cooking,” he added.

Meanwhile, LSG registered their second win after defeating KKR. They will next face the Gujarat Titans on Sunday at their home ground, Ekana Stadium in Lucknow.

--IANS

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Kolkata, April 10 (IANS) Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) skipper Ajinkya Rahane admitted that their three-wicket defeat to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League 2026 is a really tough one to take, as they slumped to another close defeat at Eden Gardens on Thursday.

Coming to bat first, KKR posted a competitive 181/4 in 20 overs, thanks to solid contributions from Rahane (41), Angkrish Raghuvanshi (45), and an unbeaten 39 from Rovman Powell. The total looked challenging on a slow surface, especially after KKR pulled things back in the middle overs.

However, LSG chased down the target in dramatic fashion, with Mukul Chaudhary smashing an unbeaten 54 off 27 balls and sharing a crucial partnership after Ayush Badoni had earlier anchored the innings.

“Tough one to take, but really proud of the boys for the way we played. Mukul's knock was defining,” Rahane said after the match, praising Mukul Choudhary for his match-winning effort.

Reflecting on the final overs, where the team lost the plot, Rahane said, “The execution here and there can happen in the last two overs, but credit to Mukul for that partnership. For them, it was nothing to lose, two overs, 30 runs, so it was all about swinging hard every ball.”

He acknowledged that, despite some good deliveries, Mukul’s aggressive approach turned the game. “A couple of balls were good balls, but he batted brilliantly,” Rahane added.

Rahane also pointed out that defending the total was not straightforward given the conditions. “180 odd on this wicket wasn’t easy. Let’s give credit to the batter for the way he batted,” he said.

The KKR captain revealed the team’s strategy in the final over as well. “Intention was to keep Avesh Khan on strike. We had to field five fielders up, and it’s tough on the bowlers,” he explained.

Despite the defeat, Rahane remained positive about his side’s effort, while admitting that small margins made the difference in the end. With this loss, KKR are yet to win a match this season. They will now face five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on April 14.

--IANS

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Port Luis/New Delhi, April 9 (IANS) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, during his visit to Mauritius, reaffirmed India’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations with the island nation.

In a message to Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Jaishankar congratulated Mauritius for hosting the 9th Indian Ocean Conference and expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation.

Highlighting the progress made in just over a year, Jaishankar recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Mauritius in March 2025, when both governments elevated their ties to an “Enhanced Strategic Partnership.” He noted that this decision reflects the enduring bonds of history, culture, and trust between the two nations, while also expanding cooperation across key sectors.

Jaishankar emphasised the importance of development partnership, citing the Special Economic Package jointly announced last year, which is now being implemented through the Exchange of Letters.

He also underscored India’s support in healthcare, inaugurating a Renal Transplant Unit at Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital, and pointed to ongoing projects such as the AYUSH Centre of Excellence and community development initiatives across Mauritius, Rodrigues, and Agalega. Sustainable energy cooperation featured prominently in his remarks.

India has supported Mauritius with e-buses, solar power projects, and collaborations under the International Solar Alliance and Global Biofuels Alliance. An Indian enterprise is also developing Mauritius’ first floating solar power project.

On defence and security, Jaishankar announced the forthcoming appointment of a Defence Attache in Mauritius, strengthening maritime cooperation and joint hydrography services.

He also highlighted capacity-building initiatives, including the launch of the iGOT Karmayogi portal for Mauritian civil servants, making Mauritius the first country to receive a dedicated version of the platform. Education and labour cooperation were also noted, with agreements between the University Grants Commission and Mauritius’ Higher Education Commission, alongside operationalisation of the labour MoU (memorandum of understanding).

Energy security remains a priority, with India and Mauritius finalising a government-to-government agreement for oil and gas supply.

Jaishankar concluded by reaffirming India’s commitment under its “Neighbourhood First Policy, Vision Mahasagar, and Global South” priorities, stressing that the partnership with Mauritius is both unique and enduring.

--IANS

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Jaipur, April 9 (IANS) The Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), on Thursday, arrested former IAS officer Subodh Agarwal (Retired Rajasthan Additional Chief Secretary) in connection with a large-scale corruption case under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM).

In relation to a case, registered at the ACB headquarters, Agarwal was taken into custody in Delhi on Thursday and subsequently arrested.

Further investigation in the matter is ongoing.

The investigation has revealed that firms M/s Shri Ganpati Tubewell Company (Proprietor: Mahesh Mittal) and M/s Shri Shyam Tubewell Company (Proprietor: Padamchand Jain) secured government tenders by submitting forged work completion certificates purportedly issued by IRCON International Limited.

Acting in collusion with senior officials of the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), these firms were awarded contracts worth around Rs 960 crore.

It has also been established that Subodh Agarwal, who was serving as Rajasthan Additional Chief Secretary (PHED) at the time, along with other senior officials, deliberately violated established norms.

They introduced the requirement of "Site Visit Certificates" for major tenders exceeding Rs 50 crore, which led to the disclosure of bidder identities and facilitated cartelisation (tender pooling).

This resulted in abnormally high premiums ranging between 30 and 40 per cent, which were subsequently approved by PHED officials, indicating a clear abuse of official position.

The total value of the tenders under scrutiny is estimated at nearly Rs 20,000 crore.

As of now, 10 accused persons have been arrested in the case, including Dinesh Goyal, Chief Engineer (Administration); K.D. Gupta, Chief Engineer (Rural); Subhanshu Dixit, the then former Secretary of the Rajasthan Water Supply and Sewerage Management Board and current Additional Chief Engineer/Secretary; Sushil Sharma, Chief Engineer (Jaipur Zone-II) and current Financial Advisor of Renewable Energy; Niril Kumar, Churu Chief Engineer; Vishal Saxena, Executive Engineer and currently under suspension, Arun Srivastava, retired Additional Chief Engineer, D.K. Gaur, the then Chief Engineer and Technical Member; Mahendra Prakash Soni, the then Superintending Engineer; and Mukesh Pathak (private individual).

The court has issued standing arrest warrants against three absconding accused namely Mukesh Goyal (then Superintending Engineer), Jitendra Sharma (then Executive Engineer) and Sanjeev Gupta (private individual).

Proceedings are underway to declare them proclaimed offenders and to attach their properties.

The Rajasthan High Court has granted interim protection from arrest to five other accused persons in the case.

Detailed questioning of Subodh Agarwal and further investigation are being carried out under the supervision of Rajasthan Additional Director General Smita Srivastava.

To ensure a comprehensive and expeditious probe, the SIT, constituted under the leadership of Deputy Inspector Generals of Police, Rameshwar Singh and Om Prakash Meena, have undertaken an in-depth examination of technical and documentary evidence.

--IANS

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Bhubaneswar, April 9 (IANS) The Odisha Congress on Thursday constituted a 13-member fact-finding committee to investigate alleged police excesses against displaced people protesting against construction work by a private company at Sijimali in Rayagada district.​

As per the instructions of Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) president Bhakta Charan Das, a committee has been formed under the chairmanship of Koraput MP and AICC in-charge for the northeastern states—Manipur, Tripura, Sikkim, and Nagaland—Saptagiri Ulaka. The team will visit Sijimali on Friday and submit its inquiry report at the OPCC office.​

“While the displaced people were protesting at Sijimali in Rayagada district to press for the fulfilment of their demands, the act of repression carried out by the police is highly condemnable. The Congress party will continue its efforts until justice is delivered to them. To enquire into the incident, OPCC president Bhakta Charan Das has constituted a fact-finding committee,” reads an office order.​

The party also alleged that the way the police have suppressed the protests of displaced people at Sijimali in Rayagada district, while they were peacefully pressing for their demands, is deeply reprehensible. Such actions not only undermine democratic rights but also silence the voices of vulnerable communities who are seeking justice.​

The Congress party further said that whenever mineral extraction or industrialisation has taken place in Odisha, neither the government nor the administration has shown the will and sincerity to address the issue of displacement effectively.​

Owing to the persistent insensitivity of successive governments and administrations towards affected people, the displaced have been denied justice. Since the government itself is involved in illegal mineral extraction, legal provisions under the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA), are not enforced in any project in the state. ​

Referring to several past movements led by Congress safeguarding the rights of displaced persons in Odisha, the party claimed that in every instance, it is the project-affected people who suffer the losses, while Congress has consistently fought for their interests and secured results.​

Notably, violence broke out between police and tribal residents in Odisha’s Rayagada district on Tuesday during a confrontation over a road being built in connection with the Sijimali bauxite reserve, injuring over 60 people, including about 40 police personnel.

The locals have been protesting against the proposed bauxite project for the past few years.​

--IANS

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Monte Carlo, April 9 (IANS) World No.1 Carlos Alcaraz overcame a tough challenge from Tomás Martín Etcheverry to reach the quarter-finals of the Monte-Carlo Masters on Thursday. The Spaniard started strongly but was pushed into a three-set battle before winning 6-1, 4-6, 6-3 in the Round of 16 clash on Court Rainier III.

Alcaraz dominated the opening set, winning the first eight points of the match and finishing the set comfortably. However, his level dropped in the second set as he made 23 unforced errors, allowing Etcheverry to bounce back. The Argentine raised his game and won four straight games to take the set 6-4.

In the deciding set, Alcaraz regained control. He improved his shot selection and hit 13 winners to close out the match and keep his title defence alive.

“I was playing really well in the first set. I was feeling the ball 10/10. Then I started pretty well in the second set as well and had a chance to break his serve in the second game, but I didn’t take it. When you don’t take the opportunities at this level, you have to run back. He played more aggressively after that, but I would say it was a great fight in the end,” Alcaraz said on the court after winning the match.

Alcaraz served 5 aces compared to Etcheverry’s 1 and won 98 total points against 83. The Spaniard also won 56 service points and 42 receiving points, both higher than his opponent.

Alcaraz converted 5 of 12 break points, while Etcheverry managed 2 of 6. The top seed also won 67 per cent of points on his first serve and 62 per cent on his second serve, compared to 61 and 50 per cent respectively for the Argentine.

With this win, Alcaraz extended his clay-court winning streak to 15 matches. He will next face eighth seed Alexander Bublik in the quarter-finals.

Earlier in the day, Jannik Sinner also advanced after a three-set win, staying in contention for the World No. 1 ranking.

—IANS

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New Delhi, April 9 (IANS) Two-time national champion Meenakshi Goyat staged a stunning comeback to defeat South Korea’s Seoyoung Park and enter the women’s 53kg final, while Hansika Lamba (55kg) and Neha (59kg) secured bronze medals for India at the Senior Asian Wrestling Championships in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on Thursday.

Meenakshi, who earned her place in the Indian squad by defeating two-time World Championships bronze medallist Antim Panghal, was trailing 0-2 until the closing 30 seconds of her semifinal bout. The 25-year-old turned the contest on its head with a decisive four-point throw and held on to her advantage to book a place in the final.

The former Asian U-23 champion will now face China’s Jin Zhang, who advanced after defeating Japan’s Moe Kiyooka by fall.

Later, Hansika Lamba and Neha added two more bronze medals to India’s tally, following a strong showing by the men’s Greco-Roman wrestlers, who had already secured two silver and three bronze medals in the opening three days of competition.

In the women’s 55kg bronze medal bout, Hansika showed patience early on against Kyrgyzstan’s Aruuke Kadyrbek Kyzy before taking control in the second round. The 19-year-old executed a successful leg attack to register a takedown and went on to dominate the bout, sealing a 6-1 victory.

Neha then claimed India’s seventh medal of the competition with a commanding 10-4 win over Mongolia’s Bolortuya Khurelkhuu in the women’s 59kg bronze medal playoff.

Meanwhile, Harshita (72kg) and Monika (65kg) will look to secure bronze medals on Friday. Harshita lost her semifinal 2-7 to Japan’s Mahiro Yoshitake, the 2024 Asian Championships gold medallist, and will now face Uzbekistan’s Sevinchoy Polvonova in the bronze medal bout.

In the 65kg category, Monika suffered a quarterfinal defeat to eventual finalist Nana Ikehata of Japan and will now take on South Korea’s Hanbit Lee in the bronze medal match.

Minakshi (57kg) and Mansi (62kg) also remain in contention after advancing to the repechage rounds, following losses to finalists in their respective categories. Minakshi will face Kyrgyzstan’s Tancholpon Kybalbekova, while Mansi will take on Mongolia’s Tserenchimed Sukhee on Friday.

--IANS

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Director: Shaneil Deo, Cast: Adivi Sesh, Mrunal Thakur, Anurag Kashyap, Prakash Raj, Sunil, Atul Kulkarni, Zayn Marie Khan & Kamakshi Bhaskarla, Run Time: 2h 35m, Rating: 4 stars

Dacoit: A Love Story is not your conventional romance—it’s a brooding, intense exploration of love gone wrong, where emotions bleed into violence, and redemption feels just out of reach. Director Shaneil Deo crafts a narrative that sits somewhere between a character study and a revenge drama, attempting to balance raw action with emotional depth.

At the heart of the film is Adivi Sesh, who delivers a compelling and controlled performance. His portrayal of a man consumed by heartbreak and rage is layered, relying more on internalized pain than overt dramatics. There’s a quiet intensity in his eyes that carries several scenes, especially when the script allows him moments of silence. It’s one of those performances that steadily grows on you.

Opposite him, Mrunal Thakur brings a nuanced presence. Her character isn’t merely a catalyst for the protagonist’s transformation; she stands her ground with a mix of vulnerability and ambiguity. Thakur manages to keep the audience guessing, which adds an intriguing tension to their dynamic.

Technically, the film scores well in creating atmosphere. The cinematography leans into dusty landscapes and muted tones, reinforcing the bleak emotional landscape of the story. The camera often lingers, allowing scenes to breathe, though this approach occasionally affects the pacing. The background score is effective without being overwhelming, subtly enhancing the tension and emotional beats.

Where the film stumbles slightly is in its screenplay. While the premise is strong, certain plot developments feel predictable, and the narrative could have benefited from tighter editing. The first half, in particular, takes its time to build the world and relationships, which may test the patience of some viewers. However, the second half redeems this with more focused storytelling and a gripping emotional payoff.

What sets Dacoit: A Love Story apart is its refusal to simplify its characters. There are no clear heroes or villains here—just flawed individuals making irreversible choices. The film doesn’t offer easy answers, and that ambiguity works both in its favor and against it.

In the end, Dacoit: A Love Story is a moody, character-driven film that prioritizes emotion over spectacle. It may not appeal to everyone, but for those willing to engage with its layered storytelling and restrained performances, it offers a haunting and memorable cinematic experience.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 9 (IANS) Karan Johar, filmmaker and director, has documented his Tokyo trip through his social media handle and has appreciated the city’s silence and hygiene.

Taking to his Instagram account on Thursday, Karan Johar dropped a series of pictures from his Tokyo trip, in which he shared glimpses of the city’s beautiful locations.

He also shared several selfies in which he can be seen posing in his usual fashionable jackets and coats. In one of the pictures, which appears to have been clicked in a mall, there are bags with a caption written on them that reads, “My energy comes from freedom.”

Adding a note to these pictures, he wrote, “An organised city that is crowded and meditative in equal measure… that’s new and sells vintage in beautiful abundance.”

Praising the hygiene and silence of the city he wrote “where silences are appreciated, hygiene is inherent , order is the order of everyday and politeness is everywhere …. I was late to this Tokyo party but i slept with matcha coated dreams on all nights … also if you haven’t had the egg sandwich from 7 11 then you haven’t lived!”

He concluded by writing “Am off to sleep as I have an early flight out! Sayonara Tokyo! Till we meet again….”

Prior to this Karan Johar had shared pictures with Meryl Streep and Anne Hathway whom he met in Tokyo during the promotions of ‘The Devil Wears Prada-2’

Adding a note to the pictures he wrote “This is not a caption. This is a confession. I am singularly obsessed and inspired by the unmatchable brilliance of Meryl Streep. In many ways she has been my guru in the art of acting & portraying characters across cinema!!

He also confessed that he has seen “The Devil Wears Prada” over 40 times.

—IANS

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Mumbai, April 9 (IANS) Singer Sonu Nigam shared a throwback memory from the time when Arijit Singh visited his house after a long gap of 15 years.

During the visit, Arijit even gifted Sonu Nigam a plant, which is now placed in his home mandir.

As two prominent names from the music world got together, there were some performances, which made the visit even more memorable.

Publishing a string of photos with Arijit, Sonu Nigam wrote on his social media account, "#throwback : 13th Jan 2026 my adorable Arijit in my house. After almost 15 years. So proud of his journey through these years.. And he knows very well how much I love him. The plant he brought, adorns my mandir. (sic)"

He further added, "And then my little genius Shashwat and Magic also turned up to add more love. I might share Shashwat giving us all a performance of Soona soona on whistle.. It's the most lovable sight.. But.. I'll take that call later.. Let's see how many people desire to see it.."

Recently, Arijit left everyone shocked after he announced his retirement from playback singing through an emotional post.

However, in February, he issued a clarification regarding his songs constantly being released even after the announcement.

Shedding light on the process of rolling out songs, he penned, “This message is just for my listeners please don’t read and swipe right now if you are not my listener, its a humble request. Hello beautiful people! I just want to tell you all that I love you. Thank you so much for your kindness in this ruthless world”.

“Although I have stopped taking new assignments, the list of pending songs are not less you know. I will have to complete a lot of songs. Don't involve into explaining people, How many times will you? there are so many Unfinished songs, they are gonna keep releasing until they are done. May be through this whole year. may be it will touch next year too. Be peaceful. Try to get out of this platform. Remove spike proteins from your body, leave 5g, Read love meditate. Jay Devi”, added Arijit.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 9 (IANS) Actress Rashmika Mandanna celebrated her 30th birthday on April 5 with husband Vijay Deverakonda and her family members.

Making her first birthday after marriage even more special, Rashmika and Vijay decided to visit the hometown of the 'Pushpa' actress, Coorg.

Reliving some fond memories from her childhood, Rashmika offered prayers at the temple she had grown up visiting, and even saw her school from outside.

The 'Animal' actress further used the opportunity to meet the family members who were unable to attend the wedding festivities in Udaipur.

She reconnected with her school friends, who have been an integral part of her journey.

Sharing a couple of photographs from her birthday celebration on her social media handle, Rashmika wrote, "My 30th birthday was kinda different this time. Went back home after a while. Went to the temple I’ve grown up going to.. Went to my school and saw it from outside (because of time constraints ) and revisited childhood for a quick bit.. Cut the cake amongst the people who are the reason for my being today to the people who are going to be my forever. Met my families who couldn’t be there in the wedding in a small dinner gathering.. the people who’ve blessed me from the day I was born till today My girls from school who have been a part of my everything till today to my friends who are more like my family today than my friends (sic)."

Expressing her gratitude for a blessed birthday, Rashmika concluded the post with, " I feel like everything in life happens for a good reason and this is the reason! Everything feels worth it!"

For the unaware, after successfully keeping their relationship under wraps for a long time, Rashmika and Vijay finally tied the knot on February 26 in a traditional ceremony in Udaipur.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 9 (IANS) Singer Neha Kakkar has a special birthday wish for brother Tony Kakkar as he turned a year older on Thursday.

Wishing her "best friend and mentor" on his special day, Neha said that there is no one like him.

Taking to her official social media handle, Neha treated her Instagram family with some unseen moments with her 'Bhaiyu'.

"Happy Birthday My First Best Friend, My Mentor, My Bhaiyu @tonykakkar There’s No one like you! (sic)," read Neha's wish for brother Tony.

Refreshing your memory, last year, Neha made a special tattoo for brother Tony as a mark of love on his birthday.

She posted a clip on social media where she was seen getting the tattoo done on her arm, admitting that the process turned out to be extremely painful.

The tattoo has two hands making a pinky promise, symbolizing their strong bond, along with the initials of their names - 'NK' and 'TK' written underneath.

Neha surprised Tony by unveiling the tattoo during his birthday celebration in 2025. Delighted after seeing the surprise, Tony couldn't stop admiring it.

An emotional Tony even said that he wished everyone could have a sister like Neha.

Neha was also heard saying in the video that whatever she is today, Tony has played a very big part in it.

Neha keeps the netizens hooked with constant updates from her personal and professional life.

Last month, Neha treated the users with a soulful rendition of Arijit Singh's "Tumse Behtar" from Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor's "Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari" while enjoying barish, chai, and a breathtaking view.

Seated in the trunk of the car, Neha was seen singing the melodious number.

Sharing the clip on her official Instagram account, Neha penned the caption, "Barish, Chai, Music aur Yeh View!".

--IANS

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