Jaipur, March 26 (IANS) A sharp political exchange unfolded in Rajasthan as Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma launched a strong attack on former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot for running a digital campaign named "Intezaar Shastra".

Chief Minister Sharma, on Thursday, dismissed Gehlot's campaign as misleading, calling it not just an "Intezaar Shastra" (doctrine of waiting) but a "Jhooth Shastra" (doctrine of lies).

He recalled the tenure of previous Congress government and mentioned about the time of past recruitment and examination paper leaks.

He said that under the current BJP government's tenure, such incidents have significantly reduced, and several accused have been sent to jail.

He also mentioned about alleged irregularities in the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) during the previous Congress government's tenure and claimed that action is being taken against those involved, including officials and political leaders under the current BJP-led state government.

"The falsehoods of hollow 'magic' merely create illusion; remember this, the turn of everyone involved in corruption will eventually come," Chief Minister Sharma added.

"They (Congress) have launched a strategy and they call it the 'Intezaar Shastra' (The Doctrine of Waiting). Well, I want to tell them -- since they keep bringing this up on X -- that this is not merely an 'Intezaar Shastra'; it is also a 'Jhooth Shastra' (The Doctrine of Lies)."

"There is indeed a 'Doctrine of Lies' that is constantly being propagated; speak about that as well. Papers for youth recruitment exams used to get leaked frequently; just look at how many such paper leaks have been stopped now. Look at how many individuals involved in such acts have been put behind bars -- how many are currently languishing in jail. Also, take a good look at the manner in which you (Congress) indulged in corruption regarding the JJM (Jal Jeevan Mission) scheme. Your Ministers are going to jail; your officials are going to jail -- this is happening continuously, and the list is still long."

The Chief Minister said: "I wish to state this clearly before you all: anyone, absolutely anyone, who has committed any form of irregularity or corruption will not be spared. I assert that they will inevitably end up behind bars."

Gehlot, earlier on Thursday afternoon, spoke to media on the 'Intezaar Shastra' and said: "Yes, we are running this campaign precisely to exert pressure on the current BJP government. Our objective is to highlight the buildings that have already been constructed across Rajasthan and lie unused."

"Therefore, this campaign we have launched is intended specifically to apply pressure on the government. As you can observe, the Social Science Institute -- which we (Congress) were establishing on the lines of the Tata Institute, currently lies dormant. Furthermore, regarding the Gandhi Museum, a place that children from across the entire state ought to be visiting today, there are absolutely no programmes or activities taking place there."

"Therefore, regarding these projects that have been lying pending, one after another, such as the IPD Tower; everyone is watching this, the entire state is watching. Consequently, we (Congress) are exerting pressure on the current BJP government."

--IANS

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Amaravati, March 26 (IANS) Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party President Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, on Thursday, alleged that the state has become a 'Jungle Raj' where police exist only on paper, vanishing when tribals, women, and the poor cry for help.

"Emergency lines go silent, predators roam free, and innocent lives are lost while those in power focus on corruption, power politics and publicity stunts instead of protecting people," Jagan Mohan Reddy posted on social media platform X.

The former Chief Minister wrote that a helpless 17-year-old tribal girl became yet another victim of the collapsing system in the state.

"This 17-year-old Tribal girl was taken from her family under the pretext of education and care. On March 22, a civil engineer approached her family in Hiramandalam of Srikakulam district, promising tuition. On March 23, in Visakhapatnam, she was reportedly subjected to repeated sexual assault, exposing both brutality and systemic failure. By March 24, she was door delivered as a dead body to their parents," Jagan Mohan Reddy said.

According to the YSRCP Chief, there were reports of pressure on the girl's family for a quick, silent cremation, raising serious concerns of a cover-up.

"On pressure, the post-mortem was conducted at the Srikakulam Government General Hospital. Police showed no urgency and acted only after a complaint. No action, no arrest this far," he added.

Jagan Mohan Reddy also said that the bus fire incident on Thursday morning in Markapuram exposed yet another collapse of the state government in Andhra Pradesh.

"Repeated calls to police emergency helpline number '100' went unanswered. Calls to helpline number '108' were ignored until the bus was fully engulfed. Survivors said their cries went unheard. With no timely rescue, 14 lives were lost. Institutions which were supposed to respond have not responded," he added.

The former Chief Minister alleged that under the currrent Chandrababu Naidu-led state government, except PR stunts, there is zero governance.

"Under "Red Book" governance, police act as puppets while citizens are left unprotected and suffering. This is the real situation in the state," Jagan Mohan Reddy said.

--IANS

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Agartala/Thiruvananthapuram, March 26 (IANS) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, on Thursday, asserted that Kerala should follow his state's example in overcoming corruption and political misrule, urging voters to replace what he termed "divisive politics" with a development-oriented approach.

Addressing an election campaign rally for BJP candidate Prasanth Malavayal in the Kalpetta Assembly constituency in Wayanad district, Chief Minister Saha said that the transformation witnessed in Tripura after decades of Left rule offers a roadmap for Kerala.

"Tripura, once considered a stronghold of uninterrupted Left rule, today stands as a symbol of hope, change, and victory. What the people of Kerala are facing now, we, too, experienced earlier. The time has come to overcome that phase, just as we did," he added.

Calling it a "golden opportunity", Chief Minister Saha said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country is moving towards development-driven governance, and Kerala should align with this vision.

He alleged that both the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the United Democratic Front (UDF) have created a cycle of corruption in the state.

"For years, LDF and UDF have engaged in a kind of 'match-fixing', taking turns in power while people continue to suffer. Like in Tripura, the BJP here must commit to uprooting corruption and building a prosperous Kerala," the Chief Minister said.

Highlighting Tripura's political shift in 2018, Chief Minister Saha recalled that the CPI-M had ruled the state for 35 years with little Opposition presence.

"There were no BJP MLAs, MPs, or Councillors. But under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we (BJP) built a strong grassroots organisation, strengthened booth-level networks, and mobilised dedicated party workers across the state," he said.

He noted that in the 2018 Assembly elections, the BJP secured 36 seats while its ally IPFT (Indigenous People's Front of Tripura) also performed strongly, together winning 44 of the total of 60 seats.

"Even the Congress in Tripura was wiped out. People chose development over dynasty and welfare over wastage," the Chief Minister added.

Chief Minister Saha said that the BJP government in Tripura has since focused on development across sectors, including infrastructure, housing, sanitation, drinking water, and connectivity in remote and tribal areas.

He also emphasised efforts towards ensuring women's safety and inclusive growth.

Turning his attention towards the state government in Kerala, the Chief Minister criticised the state's political leadership, alleging mismanagement of temple affairs and lack of faith among ruling CPI-M leaders.

He said that the BJP is committed to protecting cultural heritage and ensuring transparent administration of religious institutions.

"Both LDF and UDF have turned governance into a cycle of institutionalised corruption, where public office is often used for personal gain. It is time to replace this with politics of growth, accountability, and development," CM Saha added.

He said that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) remains committed to delivering transparent governance, clean administration, and inclusive development in Kerala.

"Every Malayali deserves equal opportunity without discrimination," he added.

The Tripura Chief Minister also addressed another election convention at Town Junction in the Dharmadam Assembly constituency in support of BJP candidate K. Renith.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is seeking re-election from the Dharmadam Assembly constituency.

"This visit of Tripura Chief Minister marks a significant push by the BJP leadership to energise party workers and connect with voters in these key Assembly constituencies in Kerala," a BJP leader in Agartala said.

The BJP-led NDA is contesting all 140 Assembly seats in Kerala, with polling scheduled for April 9.

The BJP itself is fielding candidates in 99 Assembly constituencies, while its allies are contesting the remaining seats.

The BJP had opened its account in Kerala in the 2016 Assembly elections by winning the Nemom constituency in Thiruvananthapuram district. However, it lost the seat in the 2021 Assembly elections.

In the 2021 Assembly polls, the BJP secured the second place in nine constituencies, indicating growing support among the people.

--IANS

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Lucknow, March 26 (IANS) The Uttar Pradesh government on Thursday cancelled the MoU with Puch AI in the interest of transparency and the highest level of probity in governance.

Invest UP said in an X post that, as per standard protocols laid by the State Government, the MoU signed with Puch AI on March 23, 2026, was reviewed.

“Necessary details as per SOP were sought from the investor, but they failed to provide them in a timely manner. Due diligence showed a lack of net worth and credible financial linkages for the project's scale. On the directions of the State Government, the MoU is cancelled with effect from today. No rights or obligations remain,” said Invest UP.

The MoU has been cancelled in the interest of transparency and the highest level of probity in governance, which are at the core of the Government of Uttar Pradesh, it added.

Invest UP had signed the MoU with Puch AI to establish an AI park in the state with a proposed investment of Rs 25,000 crore.

Earlier, the Uttar Pradesh government issued a detailed clarification regarding the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Invest UP and startup Puch AI, following growing scrutiny over the firm’s financial and operational capacity to execute a project of significant scale.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath shared a post on the social media platform X, underlining that such MoUs are only preliminary arrangements and do not guarantee final approval or the execution of projects.

The clarification comes amid discussions highlighting that Puch AI is a relatively young startup, reportedly around a year old, with an annual revenue of less than Rs 50 lakh.

Observers have questioned whether the company possesses the necessary infrastructure, experience, or financial strength to undertake large-scale commitments typically associated with state-backed investment agreements.

Addressing these concerns, the Chief Minister reiterated that an MoU signed through Invest UP serves merely as an entry point for engagement and exploration of potential opportunities in emerging sectors such as AI.

“An MoU by Invest UP is a preliminary step before detailed due diligence and project evaluation gets done,” the post stated.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, March 26 (IANS) The Beatles legend, Sir Paul McCartney is set to release his new album, ‘The Boys of Dungeon Lane’ on May 29.

The lead track of the album, ‘Days We Left Behind’ has hit the airwaves, reports ‘Female First UK’.

The Beatles legend, 83, shows no signs of slowing down, heading back to his roots for his first solo release in more than five years, which dives into the early Liverpool memories that shaped his life long before Beatlemania took hold.

As per ‘Female First UK’, the record sees Paul McCartney reflecting on his childhood, his parents, and the early days spent with his bandmates John Lennon and George Harrison, the quiet years before the world knew their names.

The first song, Days We Left Behind, sets the tone, inspired by the streets and places he grew up around, including Dungeon Lane in Speke.

Speaking about the track, the Beatles legend said it’s “a memory song”, adding that many of the images come straight from his old neighbourhood and the life his family lived there. The album also features new love songs in Paul McCartney’s classic style, mixing nostalgia with fresh material.

He said in a statement, “This is very much a memory song for me. The album title, The Boys of Dungeon Lane, comes from a lyric in this track. I was thinking just that, about the days I left behind and I do often wonder if I’m just writing about the past but then I think how can you write about anything else? It’s just a lot of memories of Liverpool. It involves a bit in the middle about John and Forthlin Road which is the street I used to live in. Dungeon Lane is near there. I used to live in a place called Speke which is quite working class. We didn’t have much at all but it didn’t matter because all the people were great and you didn’t notice you didn’t have much”.

Recording began five years ago after a meeting with producer Andrew Watt, with sessions squeezed in between McCartney’s touring schedule in Los Angeles and Sussex. Musically, the album spans everything from rock and harmony‑driven tracks to stripped‑back acoustic moments, with McCartney playing many of the instruments himself.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, March 26 (IANS) Hollywood actress Zendaya, who is gearing up for the release of her upcoming film ‘The Drama’, believes in the friends to lovers trope.

Zendaya, 29, recently shared her thoughts on what makes a "perfect marriage”, reports ‘People’ magazine.

During an interview with the French magazine Views, she said, "Oh, I don't know if there's any such thing as like a perfect marriage, but I'd say like people who, I don't know, this is a corny answer, seem like best friends (sic)”.

“I think it's always nice to see two people that like, I don't know, really like each other as well as love each other”, she added.

As per ‘People’, Zendaya's comments come not long after wedding rumors between her and Tom Holland sparked. On March 1, her longtime stylist, Law Roach, claimed at the 2026 Actor Awards that the couple secretly tied the knot.

He recently doubled down on his claim at the 2026 Oscars on March 15, telling Extra, "I said what I said”.

At outings throughout the month, Zendaya has fueled marriage speculation by wearing what appears to be a wedding band. Notably, Zendaya and Holland have referred to each other as best friends over the years. About a month after the premiere of ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’, in which Zendaya stars as MJ and Holland as Spider-Man and Peter Parker, Zendaya dismissed rumors about dating Holland, telling Variety in an interview published in August 2017, "We are friends. He's a great dude. He’s literally one of my best friends”.

Earlier, Tom Holland gushed that costars Zendaya and Jacob Batalon (Ned Leeds) were his "best friends.

He told Access Hollywood, "We’re just best friends, we really are best friends. From the moment we met each other, we all really hit it off. I remember on Spider-Man 1 just becoming, like, the best of friends”.

Earlier that year in July, Zendaya and Holland were spotted kissing in their car. The couple's engagement was confirmed in January 2025. Neither Zendaya nor Holland have directly addressed their wedding rumors.

‘The Drama’ is set to release in theaters on April 3, 2026.

--IANS

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Geneva, March 26 (IANS) World Skate announced on Thursday the Olympic qualification system rules in the disciplines of Skateboarding Park and Skateboarding Street for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

The qualification pathway consists of two phases, including the World Skateboarding Tour (WST) in Phase 1, which runs from June 11, 2026, to March 31, 2028, and serves as the sole funnel into Phase 2.

Each national team can register up to three athletes per WST event, and up to six additional athletes per nation may earn entry by ranking in the World Skateboarding Ranking top 30 as of 60 days before the start of said event, World Skate announced.

The Phase 2 runs from April 1, 2028, to June 11, 2028, and consists of a separate contest series for the top 44 in each discipline and gender as determined by World Skate.

These 176 athletes will each be given an evenly graduated Phase 2 points baseline at the outset, determined by their qualification position within the eligible 44 athletes in their discipline going on to form Phase 2.

World Skate also announced that each team has a maximum of three qualified athletes. At least one athlete from the host country (if not already qualified through ranking) and at least one per continent will qualify for the Games. There is also one spot for eligible athletes from underrepresented countries and regions to qualify through the Universality Quota.

Meanwhile, with a little over two years to go until the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, LA28 has unveiled its official Look of the Games, a visual identity centered on the concept of "LA in full bloom," organizers announced on Monday.

The visual identity draws inspiration from the California Superbloom, a rare natural phenomenon in which dormant wildflower seeds burst across hillsides, valleys, and deserts in cascading waves of color, occurring roughly once a decade in Southern California's unique climate.

--IANS

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Washington, March 26 (IANS) The United States has opened a diplomatic channel with Iran through Pakistan, even as military operations continue, with officials signalling a possible pathway to de-escalation after weeks of intense conflict.​

Special envoy Steve Witkoff said Washington has presented a 15-point framework for a potential peace deal, which has been conveyed to Tehran through Islamabad, which is acting as a mediator.​

“We have… presented a 15-point action list that forms the framework for a peace deal,” Witkoff said during a Cabinet meeting chaired by US President Donald Trump.​

He added that the proposal had been circulated “through the Pakistani government acting as the mediator,” resulting in “strong and positive messaging and talks.”​

The outreach comes despite continued US military strikes under “Operation Epic Fury,” which the administration says has significantly degraded Iran’s military capabilities.​

Witkoff said earlier diplomatic efforts failed after Iran refused to meet core US demands, including ending uranium enrichment, dismantling nuclear facilities, and curbing missile capabilities.​

“Throughout our meetings with the Iranians, we heard… they would not give up diplomatically what we could not win militarily,” he said, indicating that Tehran had resisted concessions prior to the current military campaign.​

He said the US negotiating team concluded that Iran had been “there to buy time until a weaker president arrived,” and that Washington had “exhausted all efforts on behalf of a peaceful resolution” before launching strikes.​

President Trump said Iran was now under pressure to negotiate following the US offensive.​

“They are begging to make a deal,” Trump said, adding that Tehran now faced a choice between accepting terms or facing continued military action.​

Vice President JD Vance said the military campaign had shifted the balance, giving Washington leverage to pursue both diplomatic and military options.​

“What we have now… is the ability to use every tool at our disposal to ensure that Iran doesn’t get a nuclear weapon,” Vance said.​

Witkoff said multiple regional actors had reached out to facilitate a peaceful resolution, suggesting growing diplomatic momentum.​

“We have had multiple reach-outs from the region and others who want to play a role in ending this conflict peacefully,” he said.​

However, he stressed that negotiations remain sensitive and that details of the proposed framework would not be disclosed publicly.​

“These are sensitive diplomatic discussions… and you have directed us to maintain confidentiality,” he said.​

He added that Washington had delivered a clear message to Tehran: “Don’t miscalculate again.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

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Mumbai, March 26 (IANS) Bollywood actor Arbaaz Khan’s wife, Sshura Khan has shared a glimpse of their daughter. On Thursday, Sshura Khan took to her Instagram, and shared a picture capturing their daughter’s feet in the lens.

The picture is from the Eid celebrations this year at Khan family’s house after their patriarch, Salim Khan returned home following a hospital dash.

She wrote in the caption, “Eid Vibes @sipaarakhan #alhamdulillah”.

Arbaaz Khan and Sshura Khan were first reported to be in a relationship in 2023. Sshura Khan works as a professional makeup artist in the film industry and was associated with projects involving Arbaaz Khan, which is how they are believed to have met. Their relationship remained largely private, with no extended public courtship timeline disclosed.

On December 24, 2023, the couple married in an intimate ceremony held at the Mumbai residence of Arbaaz Khan’s sister, Arpita Khan Sharma. The wedding was attended by close family members and select industry figures. This marked Arbaaz Khan’s second marriage; he was previously married to Malaika Arora, with whom he shares a son. Post-marriage, Arbaaz Khan and Sshura Khan have made limited public appearances together, maintaining a relatively low-profile personal life.

The couple welcomed their first child together, a daughter, on October 5, 2025. Sshura Khan was admitted to PD Hinduja Hospital in Mumbai shortly before delivery, and the birth was confirmed the same day.

The couple had hosted a private baby shower in late September 2025, attended by close family members. This marked Arbaaz Khan’s second time as a father and his first child with Sshura Khan.

A few days later, the couple publicly revealed their daughter’s name as Sipaara Khan through a joint announcement. The couple has maintained limited direct public communication about their daughter.

--IANS

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Chennai, March 26 (IANS) The makers of director Dijo Jose Antony's upcoming big budget Malayalam action entertainer, 'Pallichattambi', featuring actor Tovino Thomas in the lead, have now revealed that actor Midhun Venugopal plays a character called Davi in the film, much to the delight of fans and film buffs.

The makers, using the film's official handle on Instagram, released the first look poster of the actor and wrote, "Midhun Venugopal as Davi. In cinemas worldwide on April 10, 2026. A Film by Dijo Jose Antony. #Pallichattambi #TovinoThomas #KayaduLohar @dijojoseantony@noufalahammed @brijeesh1 @worldwidefilmsindia @cqubebrosentertainment @chakrapictures."

The film had triggered huge excitement among fans and film buffs after the makers released a teaser recently.

The teaser gives the impression that the story of the film is set in a time period that is soon after the country gained its independence. The teaser makes it evident that the film will be about a man who questioned tyranny at a time when beliefs about the supernatural abounded.

It may be recalled that the director of the film had only recently announced that the unit had wrapped up shooting for the film.

Taking to his Instagram page to post pictures of the places they had shot at, the director had said, "From the first shot in Thodupuzha, to the final patch shoot across states, the long road of #Pallichattambi comes to an end today. A beautiful journey of hard work finally crosses the finish line. Love from Team Pallichattambi."

For the unaware, Kayadu Lohar, who shot to fame with her fine performance in the Tamil blockbuster film 'Dragon', plays the female lead in this film along with Tovino Thomas.

Actor Tovino Thomas, who took to his Instagram page to share the first look poster of Kayadu Lohar in the film, had said, "And then, there was love... Love for a character, for a world, and for the soul of Pallichattambi! Worldwide release on April 10, 2026. #PallichattambiMovie #April09_2026 #DijoJoseAntony #TovinoThomas#KayaduLohar JakesBejoy."

The makers of the film have now announced that the film will hit screens worldwide on April 10 this year.

Produced under the banners of World Wide Films and C Qube Bros Entertainments, 'Pallichattambi' will seek to present actor Tovino Thomas in a never-before-seen look. Sources close to the unit of the film have disclosed that the story of the film is set in the 1950s–60s period.

The film is being produced by Noufal and Brijeesh under the World Wide Films banner, along with Chanukya Chaithanya Charan under the C Qube Bros Entertainments banner. The film is being released in five languages, including Malayalam.

The cast, apart from Tovino and Kayadu Lohar, will also include Vijayaraghavan, Sudheer Karamana, Baburaj, Vinod Kedamangalam, Prashanth Alexander, and several other prominent actors.

On the technical front, the film's script has been penned by S Suresh Babu.Its cinematography has been handled by Tijo Tomy, while its music has been composed by Mollywood’s music sensation Jakes Bejoy. Editing is by Sreejith Sarang, and production design is by Dileep Nath.

Meghasyam and Thanzeer have served as the associate producers of the film, which has its costumes designed by Manjusha Radhakrishnan.

Renit Raj and Kiran Raphael have worked as the chief associate directors in this film, the sound design of which is by Sync Cinema. Art direction for the film is by Rajesh Menon and casting is by Binoy Nambala.

--IANS

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Hyderabad, March 26 (IANS) Legendary Telugu star Nandamuri Balakrishna has been conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the International Film Festival of Delhi (IFFD) 2026 in recognition of his contribution to the film industry over a period of five decades.

The Telugu film legend was honoured at the event that was held at the prestigious Bharat Mandapam. The award was presented in recognition of his immense service to Indian cinema over a span of 50 years, and as a tribute to his indelible influence, versatility and unparalleled dedication to the art of acting.

Nandamuri Balakrishna, who attended the event held in New Delhi, received the award from Delhi's Honorary Chief Minister Rekha Gupta in the presence of dignitaries from the film and cultural sectors.

It may be recalled that Balakrishna's 'Bhagavanth Kesari' with Anil Ravipudi had won the award for the Best Film in Telugu at the 71st National Film Awards. This movie was specially screened at the film festival. Actor Nandamuri Balakrishna, film director Anil Ravipudi, and producer Sahu Garapati participated in this special screening.

After the screening, Nandamuri Balakrishna said, "First of all, I bow down to my parents. Without their blessings, I would not have come this far. It is because of their blessings that I have been excelling in the film industry for 50 years. I can proudly say that there is no other hero in any other language or industry who has excelled for 50 years. My father always thought about women and women's empowerment. He was the first to bring a law that gave women a share in their father's property. He also established Padmavati University in Tirupati. Whether in films or politics, my father worked for women's empowerment. We will continue his legacy and his ideals. He will always be alive in our hearts. It is a pleasure to participate in the International Film Festival of Delhi (IFFD) and receive the award. I am proud to screen our film 'Bhagavant Kesari' at this event. Thank you to everyone who gave us this opportunity."

In 2025, the Government of India had awarded Balakrishna the prestigious Padma Bhushan, the third highest civilian award in the country, in recognition of his immense contribution to arts and cinema.

--IANS

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Chennai, March 26 (IANS) After having disclosed the character names and looks of actors Mamitha Baiju, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Karunas, Jayaram and director K S Ravikumar in director Vignesh Raja's upcoming action entertainer 'Kara', featuring actor Dhanush in the lead, the makers of the film on Thursday released actor Prithvi Pandiarajan's look in the film as Murugesan.

Taking to its X timeline, Vels Film International, the production house producing the film, wrote, "Carrying that same energy...MURUGESAN steps into the world of Kara. #FacesOfKara video drops tomorrow at 5 PM. #KaraFromApril30. Directed by @vigneshraja89. Produced by @IshariKGanesh.A @gvprakash musical.@dhanushkraja #PrithviPandiarajan @kushmithaganesh @ThinkStudiosInd."

Earlier on Thursday, the makers released the look of actor Jayaram in the film as Muthu Selvan. On Wednesday, the makers had released the first look posters of actor Karunas as Kasi Maayan and actor Suraj Venjaramoodu as Bharathan in the film.

On Tuesday, the makers had disclosed that actress Mamitha Baiju, who played the female lead in the film, would be seen as Selli in the film. They also shared that director K S Ravikumar would be seen as Kandhasaami in 'Kara'.

It may be recalled that the makers of the film had announced the title of the film on Pongal this year. The makers had also released a poster of the film in which Dhanush was seen sporting an intense look. The poster read, "Sometimes, staying dangerous is the only way to stay alive."

Director Vignesh Raja, on his X timeline, had said, "D54 is Kara. An emotionally rooted suspense thriller. We are coming this summer. #D54 is #Kara. #HappyPongal #HappySankranti. Directed by @vigneshraja89. Produced by @IshariKGanesh. A @gvprakash musical."

The makers had, sometime ago, released a still of Dhanush from the film. The production house had shared the picture on social media, saying, "Straight from the sets of #D54 - Shoot in progress! @dhanushkraja". The picture showed Dhanush speaking from an STD booth.

The film boasts of both a strong cast as well as a brilliant technical crew.

Apart from Dhanush and Mamitha Baiju, the film will also feature director K S Ravikumar, Jayaram, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Karunas and Prithvi Pandiraj in pivotal roles.

On the technical front, cinematography will be by one of the best in the business, Theni Eswar and editing will be by Sreejith Sarang. Music will be by National Award winner G V Prakash.

More significantly, the story of the film has been jointly penned by writer Alfred Prakash and director Vignesh Raja, the creators of the critically acclaimed superhit investigative thriller 'Por Thozhil'.

--IANS

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