New Delhi, Aug 21 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that true national progress is driven by decisions whose impact is felt on the ground and which balance the needs of both the present and the future, rather than short-term announcements aimed at electoral gains.

Speaking at the World Leaders Forum organised by The Economic Times, the Prime Minister noted that in politics, headlines are often dominated by decisions whose effects last only a day or so. Earlier governments, he said, frequently made announcements before the electorate that risked dividing the nation. In contrast, lasting change comes from policies that deliver visible results while securing the country’s long-term interests.

Highlighting two flagship schemes launched by his government as examples, PM Modi pointed to the PM-KUSUM Yojana and the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. Under PM-KUSUM, farmers have been relieved of the constant worry of electricity for irrigation, he said. The PM Surya Ghar scheme, he said, has brought significant benefits to the middle class by turning household rooftops into sources of free power.

“We had planned to place a sun on the roof of every house,” the Prime Minister said, adding that more than 50 lakh families are now associated with the scheme.

The government has provided over Rs 22,000 crore to these households for installing solar systems. Beneficiaries are not only generating their own electricity for daily needs such as washing machines and televisions but are also earning by selling surplus power to the grid. As a result, their electricity bills have become zero while additional income has started flowing in.

PM Modi observed that the scheme has fulfilled the dreams of ordinary citizens by ending power cuts that once spoiled milk and disrupted studies of school-going children. Free or affordable appliances have become a reality for many families. He underlined that the benefits of rooftop solar will continue to expand businesses and improve quality of life, irrespective of electoral cycles.

Reaffirming his government’s commitment, the Prime Minister said work would continue with full dedication to take the country forward at a faster pace. With confidence that India would play a major role in shaping the world’s future, he expressed the belief that a stronger, safer and more capable India would emerge to contribute meaningfully on the global stage.

The address concluded with a call for sustained efforts rooted in long-term vision rather than temporary political gains.

--IANS

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Bengaluru, Aug 21 (IANS) Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Friday urged chartered accountants to advise the state government on improving revenue collection, plugging leakages, and correcting financial lapses without burdening businesses.

Addressing a dialogue conference organised by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) at Palace Grounds here, Shivakumar said the government was open to suggestions and willing to correct its mistakes.

"Our government is an open book. We are open to new ideas and solutions. Give us your suggestions to prevent mistakes and plug resource leakages," he said.

Praising chartered accountants for their role in protecting public trust and the economy, Shivakumar said: "Trust is in your blood. You are the guardians of trust, and you must protect it. We believe what you tell us. You should protect our lives and property and guide us in increasing revenue."

He also expressed concern over what he termed harassment of honest taxpayers by government agencies.

"Honest taxpayers are subjected to mental harassment by officials. Those who indulge in theft are not questioned. Around 12 lakh entrepreneurs have left the country, saying they have had enough of the Income Tax Department, the ED, and the CBI," he alleged.

Comparing Karnataka with other states, Shivakumar claimed that around 90 per cent of transactions in Karnataka were conducted through white money, while only about 30 per cent of transactions in Gujarat were conducted through accounted money when he visited the state a few years ago.

"Karnataka is more disciplined compared to other states," he said.

The Chief Minister said Karnataka was emerging as an economic powerhouse and that the guidance of chartered accountants was essential for sustaining its growth.

"South India is the fuel for India's progress. India cannot progress without South India," he said, adding that he had made this argument before Union Home Minister Amit Shah at a recent meeting.

Shivakumar said Bengaluru had become a global economic hub and claimed that around two lakh foreign passport holders were working in the city. He said Karnataka was an ideal destination for investment, entrepreneurship, employment generation, innovation and exports.

Referring to the ongoing Assembly session, Shivakumar said the opposition BJP was unable to accept him and his government.

"When I agreed to attend this programme, I did not know that the Assembly session would be held. But the session is now underway. My BJP friends in the Opposition are unable to digest me and my government," he said.

He alleged that the opposition was preventing discussions in the legislature because it had no substantial issue with the policies being implemented by his government.

"Jealousy has no cure. That is why they are not allowing us to have discussions,: he said.

Referring to the Southern Zonal Council meeting held in Chennai on Thursday, Shivakumar said he had raised issues concerning Karnataka and the region.

He said Karnataka was the second-highest tax-paying state in the country and claimed that the state accounted for 42 per cent of India's software exports.

"Karnataka is leading in IT-BT, technology, aerospace and several other sectors. The world's top 500 companies are operating here because of the talent available in the state," he said.

Shivakumar said the contribution made by Karnataka and other southern states should be recognised while seeking a fair share of central resources.

He compared the contribution of South India to a lamp, saying the region's contribution was like the wick and oil that enabled a lamp to burn, even though they were not always visible.

The Chief Minister also urged chartered accountants to guide industries on the effective utilisation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds.

He said the government wanted CSR resources to be directed towards strengthening primary education in rural areas and that a policy was being formulated in this regard.

Shivakumar said workers from northeastern states were coming to Karnataka for jobs in the services sector, while workers from northern states were employed in construction and traders from Andhra Pradesh were doing business in the state.

He urged chartered accountants to guide such businesses and workers to increase their earnings and ensure proper tax compliance.

Shivakumar said the state government was spending around Rs 52,000 crore annually on its guarantee schemes and around Rs 20,000 crore on providing free electricity to farmers' pump sets, besides spending on various pension schemes.

"Tell us how the government can increase revenue without causing hardship to trade and industry," he said.

He said the government had taken social and economic security to the next level and claimed that the model adopted by Karnataka had subsequently been followed by other states despite criticism from the Prime Minister.

On Bengaluru's growing population and traffic congestion, Shivakumar said the city's population had increased from around 70 lakh 25 years ago to 1.4 crore today, while the number of vehicles had reached around 1.35 crore.

He said the government was pursuing tunnel roads to address traffic congestion but alleged that opposition leaders were obstructing the proposal.

Concluding his address, Shivakumar said the government was not at the event merely to receive applause but to assure chartered accountants that it would work with them.

“We are with you. You should also stand with us,” he said, extending Varamahalakshmi festival greetings to the participants.

--IANS

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Bhopal/Gandhinagar, Aug 21 (IANS) The Madhya Pradesh Prison department and Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) on Friday signed an institutional agreement to strengthen correctional administration and develop structured mental health support for people in custody, including plans to establish Psychosocial Care Centres in state prisons.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and an Accreditation and Affiliation Agreement were signed at Jail Headquarters in Bhopal on August 20 under the leadership of RRU Vice-Chancellor Bimal Patel and Madhya Pradesh Director General of Jail and Correctional Services, Varun Kapoor.

The agreements follow earlier training initiatives between the two institutions and are intended to create a longer-term framework for academic certification, research, training and rehabilitation in the correctional system.

The partnership will include accreditation and affiliation of programmes, specialised training for correctional personnel, research on correctional administration, mental health and rehabilitation, and sharing of facilities and expertise.

It will also provide opportunities for students, researchers and faculty to undertake internships, fieldwork and experiential learning with correctional personnel.

A key component of the agreement is the proposed establishment of Psychosocial Care Centres in Madhya Pradesh prisons, in alignment with the Model Prisons and Correctional Services Act, 2023, and the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017.

The institutional arrangement follows an in-principle approval given by the Madhya Pradesh Jail Headquarters in April for establishing a Psychosocial Care Centre.

The modalities were subsequently discussed at RRU's Lavad-Gandhinagar campus in May.

The collaboration had already moved into implementation through Project PRAHARI — Psychological Risk Assessment, Health Awareness and Resilience Initiative.

From July 6 to 12, the first cohort at the Regional Jail Management and Research Institute in Bhopal trained 30 correctional staff to identify psychological distress and risk indicators, conduct risk triage, handle crisis communication and de-escalation, follow documentation and referral procedures, and protect themselves against vicarious trauma and burnout.

Varun Kapoor said the latest agreements represented a shift from an individual training programme to a permanent institutional relationship.

"Correctional personnel, because of their close contact with people in custody, are well placed to identify early signs of psychological distress, risky behaviour and substance dependence," he added.

He said that giving accredited academic certification to such training would strengthen the professional standing of the correctional cadre and improve the quality of care in prisons.

Kapoor also expressed confidence that the proposed Psychosocial Care Centres would provide structured psychosocial support to people in custody who remain unidentified or underserved.

The partnership builds on RRU's recent work with Madhya Pradesh prison personnel.

A similar PRAHARI programme has also been conducted for correctional staff in Gujarat, with the initiative focusing on early identification of psychological distress, crisis response, timely referral, suicide and self-harm prevention, and staff resilience.

--IANS

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Kolkata, Aug 21 (IANS) The West Bengal government on Friday issued a notification ordering reverification of birth certificates issued in the state between 2021 and 2026, covering the last five years of the previous Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress regime.

In the notification issued by the office of the West Bengal Chief Secretary, Manoj Kumar Agarwal, the reverification will cover birth certificates issued in both “digital” and “offline” modes. Sub-divisional officers (SDOs) and block development officers (BDOs) have been entrusted with the task.

After the new Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled government, led by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, came to power in West Bengal, it said it had noticed several irregularities in birth certificate issuance under the previous regime, especially in the last five years.

A large number of fake birth certificates came to the notice of the Election Commission of India (ECI) during the special intensive revision (SIR) exercise in the state before the recently concluded assembly elections earlier this year.

That is why the new state government decided to reverify all the birth certificates issued during the last five years of the previous regime. As per the notification, BDOs will verify certificates in rural areas, while SDOs will handle urban areas.

If necessary, BDOs and SDOs will have the authority to form investigation teams for that purpose. An officer from the state secretariat at Nabanna said special emphasis will be placed on delayed registrations.

The state government has also said it will conduct a thorough investigation to examine the documents verified while issuing birth certificates and whether the laid-down rules were followed.

As per the notification, the documents checked during the reverification process and their results must be uploaded to the ‘Birth-Death Information Portal’. The Chief Secretary's office has also instructed the preparation of a detailed report for each birth certificate.

The reports should mention whether the birth certificates in question were original, fake or defective. In addition, the BDOs and SDOs have been asked to consider the authority of the person who issued the certificate.

“If any certificate is found to be fake or illegal, then the specific reason must be documented. The BDOs and SDOs have been instructed to complete this verification process by September,” said a state secretariat insider.

--IANS

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Lucknow, Aug 21 (IANS) The Uttar Pradesh Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UPSSSC) on Friday announced the final results for the recruitment of Junior Assistants in the Industrial Development Department.

A total of 50 candidates have been selected based on the Junior Assistant Main Examination. The selection process was completed strictly in accordance with prescribed rules, merit and reservation norms.

The Commission initially invited applications for 62 posts. After the department submitted a revised requisition, the number of vacancies was reduced to 54. Against these, the Commission finalised the selection of 50 candidates.

Of the selected candidates, 34 belong to the Unreserved category, seven to Other Backward Classes, five to the Economically Weaker Sections, three to Scheduled Castes and one to Scheduled Tribes.

The Commission adjusted candidates entitled to horizontal reservation within their respective vertical categories.

The Commission fully complied with provisions for women, persons with disabilities, and other horizontal categories. In categories where suitable candidates were not available, the posts have been carried forward as per rules.

Category-wise cut-off marks have also been released. The cut-off stands at 65 marks for the Unreserved category, 62.50 for OBC, 63.75 for EWS, 50 for Scheduled Tribes and 26.75 for Scheduled Castes.

Under horizontal reservation, the cut-off is 54.75 marks for the ASD/HH/DE/OH disability category and 44.25 for other disability categories. The cut-off for women candidates is 42 marks.

The Commission has clarified that the final selection remains subject to the outcome of related petitions pending before the High Court.

The Commission has provisionally included five candidates, and their final status will depend on further decisions.

The complete list of selected candidates, along with category-wise cut-off marks, has been uploaded on the official UPSSSC website.

The result underscores the state government’s continued focus on transparent and merit-based recruitment.

--IANS

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Washington, Aug 21 (IANS) Indian-American Congressman Shri Thanedar and two senior House Democrats have asked the Trump administration to halt an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plan to spend as much as $20 million on gloves capable of delivering electric shocks.

The lawmakers cited a warning from the device's manufacturer that its use "may result in injury or death" and asked whether ICE personnel would receive sufficient training to operate it safely.

Thanedar, the ranking member of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations and Accountability, joined committee ranking member Bennie Thompson and border security subcommittee ranking member Lou Correa in raising the alarm.

In a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, they demanded that the department intervene before the proposed procurement moves forward.

ICE announced on August 10 that it planned to spend up to $20 million on the electric-shock gloves, according to the Democratic members of the House Homeland Security Committee.

The release did not identify the manufacturer, provide the proposed number of gloves or explain when ICE intended to complete the purchase.

The lawmakers said that equipping immigration officers with another potentially lethal device posed particular risks because of what they described as the agency's record involving deadly force and misuse of weapons classified as less lethal.

They also raised concerns about reduced training requirements for newly recruited ICE personnel.

"Given ICE's horrific record of violence against the public, the agency must not be allowed to equip its officers and agents with a device that demands both significant training for and restraint by its users," the lawmakers wrote.

"Under Trump, ICE has hired unqualified officers and agents and rushed them through training programs with reduced use of force instruction," they alleged.

"Many of these officers and agents should not have been hired at all, much less let loose on American streets with a badge, a gun, and electric shock gloves," they added.

The three representatives warned that the devices could be misused by ICE officers, potentially causing serious injury or death.

Their statement did not include a response from the Department of Homeland Security, ICE or the manufacturer to the allegations.

It also did not provide ICE's rationale for seeking the technology or describe any safeguards proposed by the agency.

Electric-shock devices are generally intended to temporarily incapacitate a person. However, their safety can depend on the device's power, how it is used, the duration of contact and the medical condition of the person subjected to the shock.

The proposed expenditure is likely to bring further Congressional scrutiny of ICE's use-of-force policies as the administration expands immigration enforcement and recruitment.

The lawmakers' intervention also raises questions about procurement oversight, testing requirements and whether officers would receive specialised instruction before being authorised to use the gloves.

--IANS

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Headingley, Aug 21 (IANS) Pakistan's batting woes deepened as they were bowled out for just 135 in their second innings to suffer an innings and 103 runs defeat against England in the opening Test of the series, with the hosts wrapping up a comprehensive victory inside three days.

Pakistan, having scored only 171 in their first innings, could not resist another fierce session from England's pace attack, and Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue and Ollie Robinson between them took nine wickets as England secured a dominant win and thus obtained important points in the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle.

Robinson was primarily responsible for Pakistan's failure and closed the match with the impressive figures of 8/80, earning him the award of Player of the Match.

When Pakistan started their second innings they were facing a severe deficit since England had gained a 238-run lead in the first innings. The troubles of the visitors reappeared almost straight away when Archer took a wicket in his first over, getting Imam-ul-Haq.

Shan Masood tried to launch a counter-attack with several boundaries, but England kept on applying pressure. Abdullah Shafique was then got out when he edged while defending, and Pakistan were in even greater difficulty before lunch.

Following that period the situation worsened as Tongue broke up Pakistan's middle order, Saud Shakeel being the first to fall, then the England seamer got both Masood and Salman Agha in the same over and left Pakistan facing defeat.

Although Mohammad Rizwan put up a certain amount of resistance with 41 runs, Robinson still managed to make several breakthroughs at the other end, and Gus Atkinson finally ended Rizwan's innings before Archer completed it by getting the last batter out in the 38th over.

Previously Pakistan had been all out for 171 after they were asked to bat first, with Robinson securing 5/51 and Tongue taking 5/46. In reply England were headed by four half-centuries from their middle order, Jordan Cox scoring 73, Joe Root 66, Harry Brook 91 and Dan Lawrence 51.

The joint effort enabled England to establish a lead of 238 runs, even though Ali Usman took 5 wickets for 95 runs for Pakistan.

Archer was also helpful with the bat during England's first innings, having helped increase the lead to more than 200 on the third morning before Pakistan ended the innings with the wicket of Jamie Smith, who scored 25.

The decisive win by England represents a solid beginning to Joe Root's second term as full-time Test captain, and it also improves England's position in the World Test Championship table, England's rank advancing as Pakistan have dropped below the West Indies and now find themselves at the bottom of the table with a points percentage of 19.05.

The two teams will now play the second Test at Lord's, which will start on August 27.

--IANS

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Beijing, Aug 21 (IANS) For years, China has attempted to turn maps, place names and administrative terminology into instruments of territorial pressure against India. Beijing’s repeated publication of Chinese names for locations inside Arunachal Pradesh is not simply an exercise in geography. It is part of a broader political strategy designed to normalise China’s territorial claim through repetition, official documentation and state-controlled messaging. India’s latest cartographic response therefore represents more than a naming exercise: it is a rejection of Beijing’s attempt to manufacture sovereignty through nomenclature.

On August 7, the Survey of India formally identified 27 locations in Arunachal Pradesh by their standard names on India’s official map. The list covers strategically and historically significant locations, including mountain passes, settlements, Sambho Sarovar and the Sher-e-Thapa Memorial. The stated objective was to facilitate accurate identification and improve public awareness of their geographical and historical significance. The importance of the move becomes clearer when placed against China’s own record. Beijing has repeatedly issued batches of what it calls “standardised geographical names” for locations in Arunachal Pradesh, which China refers to as “Zangnan” and claims as part of southern Tibet.

In April 2026, China’s Ministry of Civil Affairs released its sixth batch of such names. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun explicitly defended the practice as an exercise of China’s claimed “sovereign rights”. That argument exposes a striking contradiction. Beijing insists that assigning Chinese names to locations administered by India is legitimate, yet objects when India standardises names on its own official maps. A principle cannot credibly operate in only one direction. If nomenclature alone cannot confer sovereignty on India, it cannot confer sovereignty on China either.

China’s approach demonstrates the limitations of cartographic pressure. Repeated publication of new names may reinforce Beijing’s domestic narrative, but it does not by itself alter administration, civilian governance or control on the ground. Arunachal Pradesh functions as a state within the Indian Union, while Beijing continues to dispute its status. India’s Ministry of External Affairs reiterated on August 11 that Arunachal Pradesh is an “inalienable and integral part of India” and said the condition of the border would inevitably influence the wider bilateral relationship. The weakness in China’s position is therefore not that it maintains a territorial claim. States are entitled to advance claims in unresolved boundary disputes, but Beijing often presents its preferred terminology as though repetition itself settles the dispute. Cartography should describe political reality and not be used as a substitute for negotiated settlement.

The naming controversy has coincided with far more consequential allegations from the Taksing sector of Upper Subansiri district. A four-member fact-finding team from the People’s Party of Arunachal reported alleged Chinese intrusions. While the claims are unsubstantiated and uncorroborated, Beijing has said the overall border situation is “generally stable”. Reuters nevertheless reported claims of a late-July patrol confrontation near Tasking and allegations from a local welfare body of increasing Chinese activity.

The timing is particularly significant. The 36th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs was held in New Delhi on August 6, only a day before reports of India’s cartographic move emerged. Both governments publicly support dialogue, yet border stability remains the real test of improving relations. According to reports, the latest concerns have emerged ahead of the BRICS Summit scheduled in New Delhi for September 12-13, which Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to attend. This creates a simple challenge for Beijing. China cannot simultaneously call for stable ties while using administrative naming campaigns to reinforce contested territorial claims and dismissing India’s equivalent cartographic actions as damaging to relations.

India’s response should therefore extend beyond naming places. Roads, telecommunications, forward logistics, reliable intelligence, civilian settlements and regular patrolling are ultimately more important than symbols on a map.

China’s cartographic strategy depends on repetition creating political familiarity. India’s strongest answer is not endless retaliation through competing lists of names but effective administration, historical documentation and credible defence of the territory it governs. The wider lesson of this cartographic war is straightforward: sovereignty cannot be created by renaming someone else’s geography. Beijing may continue publishing new terminology for Arunachal Pradesh, but maps cannot substitute for facts on the ground, nor can unilateral labels resolve one of Asia’s most complicated boundary disputes.

--IANS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

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Mumbai, Aug 21 (IANS) Actor Yashvardan Ahuja, Govinda’s son is set to make his acting debut with the upcoming film ‘Hero Ki Horrorine’. The film also marks the return of director Sajid Khan to the silver screen.

The film also stars Nitanshi Goel, Sunita Ahuja, Jamie Lever, Chunky Pandey, Brijendra Kala and Simrat Kaur Randhawa.

The film brings a comic spin to the supernatural, as it blends horror, romance and humour. For Yashvrdhn Ahuja, the film also marks his debut as a leading actor in Hindi cinema alongside Nitanshi Goel who joins him as the leading lady in this feature. He joins an ensemble that brings together established performers and young talent, adding to the film's mix of comedy and horror.

The film is bankrolled by Ektaa R. Kapoor along with Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R. Kapoor and Amar Butala, with Sajid Khan. Amar Butala who has previously produced several box office hits including Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Kesari and the critically acclaimed ‘Mission Majnu’ joins hands with Ekta R Kapoor for this forthcoming entertainer. The film is a Jai Ho Media Ventures production, presented by Balaji Telefilms Ltd and directed by Sajid Khan.

Hero Ki Horrorine releases in cinemas on January 7, 2027.

The film marks Sajid’s return to the big screen after 12 years. The director was accused of sexual harassment by several women including Mandana Karimi, Saloni Chopra, Rachel White, Simran Suri, Marina Kuwar, Aahana Kumra, Dimple Paula, Sherlyn Chopra, and journalist Karishma Upadhyay.

In the wake of the MeToo movement in India, since October 2018, Sajid had been accused of sexual harassment. The Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association imposed a ban on Khan from directing films in light of the allegations. It was subsequently revoked a year later on December 10, 2019.

--IANS

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Chennai, Aug 21 (IANS) Actor Shanthanu Bhagyaraj on Friday penned an adorable post on the occasion of his wedding anniversary, in which he fondly remembered his late dad, the legendary Tamil director and actor K Bhagyaraj, and thanked him for teaching him about love, patience and what it meant to build a life with someone.

Taking to his Instagram page to pen the post, Shanthanu wrote, "This one feels different. Our first anniversary without Appa here to bless us in person — and there’s a quiet ache in that. But I know he’s watching over us, smiling the way he always did."

He went on to say, "Wherever you are Appa… thank you for everything you taught me about love, patience & what it means to build a life with someone. I hope we’re making you proud and will make you proud."

He concluded the post, saying, "We are holding ourselves through the hardest year of our lives. Here’s to more years, more memories, and carrying his blessings with us always. - Shanthnu & Kiki "

It may be recalled that the actor, had in June this year, put out a post on X in which he had said that if only he could, he would have transferred 10 years of his life to his father's life.

Taking to his X timeline, a heart-broken Shanthanu, who was unable to come to terms with the demise of his father whom he loved dearly, posted a clip of a speech he had delivered earlier and wrote, "Only if I could (weeping symbol). Appa (dad) (heart broken symbol)."

The video clip that Shanthanu posted was of him delivering a speech in the presence of his father and mother. In the clip, the actor was seen saying, "If I can, I wish to give 10 years of my life to my dad. That is because that will mean that for another additional 10 years, you will make more movies, tell more stories to the people. As a fan and as a learner, I wish to learn from those films."

Shanthanu's heartbroken statement and his love for his dad won hearts online with several people trying to console the inconsolable actor.

--IANS

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Chennai, Aug 21 (IANS) The makers of director Nelson Dilipkumar's eagerly awaited action entertainer 'Jailer 2', featuring Superstar Rajinikanth in the lead, on Friday released the first single from the film 'Ala Bolelo', much to the delight of fans and film buffs.

Sun Pictures, which is producing the film, took to its social media timelines to share the link the lyrical video of the first single. It wrote, "Ala bolelo, Jilla bolelo, Jithala bolelo, Jinthakka bolelo!🤩 #AlaBolelo fever begins, Lyric Video is out now! #Jailer2."

The song is a foot tapping number that has been set to tune by music director Anirudh. Interestingly, Anirudh himself delivers the song, the lyrics of which have been penned by director Arunraja Kamaraj.

But more than the music or the lyrics, it is the outstanding choreography of Jani Master which garners attention and takes centre stage.

The graceful dance performance of actress Shamna Kasim, whose moves seem to be in perfect synchronisation with the moves of the accompanying dancers, is a treat to watch. The dance performance accompanying the song is likely to win as much appreciation as the song itself.

It may be recalled that only a day ago, actress Shamna Kasim had said that she was overwhelmed with happiness and gratitude at having been a part of director Nelson Dilipkumar's 'Jailer 2'.

Taking to her Instagram page to pen a post of gratitude, the actress had said, "I am truly overwhelmed with happiness and gratitude to be a part of the prestigious film Jailer 2!"

She went on to add, "My heartfelt thanks to Superstar Rajinikanth Sir, Nelson Dilipkumar Sir, Anirudh Ravichander Sir, Jani Master, and the entire Jailer 2 team for giving me this incredible opportunity. I thank God for turning this unforgettable dream into reality. Feeling truly honoured, grateful, and blessed! #Jailer2 #SuperstarRajinikanth #NelsonDilipkumar #Anirudh #sunpictures."

For the unaware, the film is slated to hit screens worldwide on October 15 this year.

The makers had released a release date announcement teaser in which actor Vinayakan was seen issuing a threat with a laugh. "You can't be at peace after killing me. There's a big world behind me, Jailer! This is a huge network. You won't know who is coming (for you), when and how. Your life will turn into hell."

The teaser then showed Rajini's arrival in style, even as viewers got to catch a glimpse of the other characters in the film.

The film has triggered huge expectations among fans and the general public ever since the project was first announced.

In April this year, the makers had announced that the unit had wrapped up the film's shooting. The makers had then shared pictures of a cake cutting ceremony that had taken place to mark the completion of filming.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, Aug 22 (IANS) Singer-songwriter Dua Lipa levitated to the realm of bliss, courtesy her vacation at her favourite island. On Friday, the singer took to her Instagram, and dropped a series of pictures and videos from her vacation.

In the pictures and videos, she can be seen in the company of her loved ones, enjoying some lip-smacking food, and soaking in the vacation vibe.

She wrote in the caption, “There's no summer without touching my favourite island at least once”.

The singer has been having some cool time after her marriage earlier this year. She is married to British actor Callum Turner after dating for around two years. The couple first sparked romance rumours in early 2024 and made their relationship public later that year. Lipa confirmed their engagement in June 2025. The couple held an intimate civil ceremony at London’s Old Marylebone Town Hall on May 31, 2026, surrounded by close friends and family. They followed it with a lavish celebration in Sicily on June 6.

The singer wore a custom Chanel haute couture gown for the Italian ceremony, while the celebrations reportedly included several celebrity guests. Turner recently described their wedding as “the most beautiful day” of his life.

Earlier, Dua Lipa celebrated 5 years of her collaboration with Elton John, ‘Cold Heart’, which amassed 5.3 billion streams. In a collaborative post, Elton John and Dua Lipa shared a string of images posing together as they marked the moment.

The song is a medley of four songs written by John and Bernie Taupin, as well as Andrew Meecham, Dean Meredith, Nicholas Littlemore, Peter Mayes and Sam Littlemore, with the production completed by the latter three as part of the dance music group Pnau.

--IANS

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