Bengaluru, April 30 (IANS) At least seven people were killed, including a girl child and two tourists from Kerala, after a compound wall of the government-run Bowring Hospital collapsed during heavy rain, hail, and a thunderstorm that lashed several parts of Bengaluru on Wednesday.

Seven people, including five women, were injured in the incident.

The deceased are identified as 52-year-old cloth merchant Mohammed Abdul Haq, a resident of M R Palya, Bengaluru; 39-year-old Fayaz Ahmed, a resident of DJ Halli, a footwear seller; and 6-year-old Musaveer Begum, a student and resident of KG Halli.

Fifty-seven-year-old Latha K. K., a resident of Ernakulam in Kerala; 47-year-old Smitha, a resident of Ernakulam, Kerala; 36-year-old M. D. Salauddin Ansari, a resident of Uttar Pradesh, worked as a vendor; and 19-year-old Naseemulla from Assam.

Latha and Smitha were visitors from Kerala, and Naseemulla was into car stickering.

The injured persons are identified as 51-year-old Preeti, 45-year-old Sija, 51-year-old Maya, all tourists from Ernakulam, Kerala; Tabrin Taj (47), Mubeen Taj (49), Azyu (35), and Mohammad Sajid (21).

Sajid is originally from Bihar and was residing in Shivajinagar in Bengaluru.

Announcing compensation, the Chief Minister said that Rs 5 lakh would be provided to the families of the deceased.

He also instructed officials to ensure free treatment for the injured.

The Chief Minister later visited the emergency ward of Bowring Hospital and directed doctors to provide proper medical care to those injured in the incident.

Siddaramaiah expressed deep shock over the tragedy and questioned officials on the steps taken to prevent such incidents.

He stated that the mishap could have been avoided if adequate precautions had been taken and reprimanded officials for their negligence.

The incident occurred near Bowring Hospital, where the wall reportedly fell on street vendors and others who had taken shelter from the rain.

Officials briefed the Chief Minister that seven people had lost their lives in the tragedy.

Siddaramaiah visited Bowring Hospital and inspected the site of the collapse.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Wednesday expressed shock and grief over the wall collapse incident in Bengaluru that claimed seven lives, calling it a tragedy that should not have occurred.

He explained that a group of 56 people from Kerala, associated with an organisation, had come to Bengaluru on a trip and were shopping on Commercial Street when it started raining.

Despite warnings, some of them took shelter near the wall, which then collapsed.

Expressing shock over the tragic incident in the city, the Karnataka Bharatiya Janata Party on Wednesday said the death of seven people, including three children, due to the collapse of a compound wall at government-run Bowring Hospital in Shivajinagar following heavy rain has caused deep anguish.

Meanwhile, Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H D Kumaraswamy expressed deep shock over the deaths of seven people, including children, after a compound wall collapsed at Bowring Hospital during heavy rain in Bengaluru.

In a statement, Kumaraswamy said the heartbreaking tragedy had left him deeply disturbed.

The Leader of the Opposition, R Ashoka, visited the spot and met the injured persons at the hospital.

--IANS

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Bhubaneswar, April 30 (IANS) The Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mukesh Mahaling on Wednesday met Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati at Lok Bhavan to deliberate on the agenda for the special session of the Odisha Assembly scheduled to be held on April 30.

Mahaling briefed Governor Kambhampati on the agenda and significance of the special session of the Odisha Legislative Assembly.

“The special session has been convened to deliberate on women’s participation in Indian democracy, with a focus on strengthening their role in governance and decision-making. During the meeting, the Minister apprised the Governor of the key themes and discussions proposed to be taken up in the House,” informed official sources.

Governor Kambhampati appreciated the initiative and expressed hope that the deliberations would be meaningful and result-oriented.

He also emphasised the importance of enhancing women’s participation in democratic processes.

The Governor conveyed his best wishes for the smooth conduct and success of the special session.

Meanwhile, Police Commissioner of Police Suresh Dev Datta Singh, along with other senior police officials, reviewed the security arrangements at the Assembly in view of the special session of the state Assembly.

Speaking to media persons, the Police Commissioner said that around 30 platoons had been mobilised for deployment, with nearly 100 senior officers overseeing the arrangements.

He further stated that 11 Quick Response Teams had been positioned, including seven inside the Assembly premises and four in the surrounding outer zones.

It is pertinent here to mention that, amid a political slugfest over the defeat of the Women’s Reservation Bill, a special session of the Odisha Legislative Assembly has been summoned on April 30 to discuss women’s representation in India’s democracy.

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and opposition parties, including the Biju Janata Dal and the Indian National Congress, are expected to hold an intense debate on ‘Participation of Women in Indian Democracy’ during the one-day special session of the 17th Odisha Assembly on April 30.

--IANS

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Srinagar, April 30 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah will undertake a two-day visit to the Union Territory of Ladakh beginning April 30 (Thursday). In a post on X, he described it as a “moment of profound good fortune” to partake in the first-ever international exposition of the holy relics of Lord Buddha, which commences on May 1, coinciding with Buddha Purnima.

Meanwhile, the sacred Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha (Tathagata) arrived in Leh on Wednesday for a historic public exposition, marking the beginning of a major spiritual celebration in the Union Territory of Ladakh.

HM Amit Shah on Wednesday posted on X: “Tomorrow, will be leaving for Ladakh for a two-day visit. It is a moment of profound good fortune for me to be attending on the occasion of Buddha Purnima, the first ever international exposition of the holy relics of Lord Buddha, commencing on the 1st of May.

"In this exposition, devotees from different parts of the world will offer veneration to the relics of Lord Buddha."

Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, along with senior officials and spiritual leaders, received the holy relics at Kushok Bakula Rinpoche Airport in a ceremonial welcome.

The Ladakh Police accorded a guard of honour, while monks performed special prayers amid an atmosphere of deep devotion.

Speaking to the media, L-G Saxena said the relics were being placed in secure custody before being opened for public viewing.

"Today, the holy relics of Buddha were brought to Ladakh, and they received a grand welcome here. They are currently being taken from the technical area of the airport to the living quarters and will be kept in safe custody there," he said.

He further added that the exposition will begin on the occasion of Buddha Purnima.

"This will be opened to the public on May 1st, the day of Buddha Purnima. The Home Minister is visiting on that day, and this will be a major event in front of him," Saxena said.

Following the reception, the relics were taken in a grand procession to Jivetsal, the designated venue for public exposition beginning May 1, which also marks the 2569th Buddha Purnima.

Thousands of devotees participated in the procession, with people in traditional attire lining the route to witness the sacred arrival. L-G Saxena described the occasion as highly auspicious, stating that the relics have been brought to India for public exposition after being displayed internationally in several countries.

He also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for selecting Ladakh for the event, noting the region's deep spiritual and cultural connection with Buddhism.

The relics will remain open for public veneration at Jivetsal from May 2 to May 10, followed by exposition in Zanskar on May 11 and 12, and then at the Dharma Centre in Leh from May 13 to 14 before being taken back to Delhi on May 15.

--IANS

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Kolkata, April 30 (IANS) The Trinamool Congress on Wednesday dismissed exit poll predictions indicating an edge for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the West Bengal Assembly elections, citing past instances where such projections failed to reflect actual results.

Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP Derek O’Brien questioned the credibility of exit polls, referring to similar projections made during the 2021 Assembly elections that did not match the final outcome.

In a post on X, O’Brien pointed out that several exit polls had missed the mark during the last West Bengal Assembly elections.

“Credibility of exit polls? Bengal polls 2021. How off the mark were the predictions from the final results,” he said.

The Trinamool Congress leader also shared data from three exit polls that had forecast a close contest between the Trinamool Congress and the BJP, while the Trinamool Congress eventually secured a landslide victory.

O’Brien cited three exit polls from the 2021 Assembly elections, which had projected 143–162 seats for the Trinamool Congress and 115–147 for the BJP. However, the Trinamool Congress went on to win 215 seats, while the BJP secured 77.

The party’s former Rajya Sabha MP Saket Gokhale also echoed the view, stating that exit polls often indicate a “close contest” in West Bengal, whereas electoral mandates in the state have historically been decisive.

“Exit polls generally play it safe by calling it a ‘close contest’ in Bengal. Except that mandates in Bengal are never ‘close’. They’re always decisive,” Gokhale said in a post on X.

“No reliable exit poll (if such things exist) is predicting a thumping 180+ ‘BJP wave’. My claim on record: TMC will form the government on May 4 in Bengal with a massive mandate,” he added.

A majority of exit polls conducted by various agencies on the two-phase Assembly elections in West Bengal have predicted a close contest between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition BJP, while also indicating the possibility of a change in power in the state.

According to the exit poll survey by P-MARQ, the BJP is expected to win 150–175 Assembly seats, while the Trinamool Congress is projected at 118–138 seats. Others, including the Congress and the Left Front–All India Secular Front alliance, are estimated to win between two and six seats.

The Matrize exit poll projects the BJP’s tally at 146–161 seats and the Trinamool Congress at 125–140, with others between six and ten seats.

According to Chanakya Strategies, the BJP is expected to win 150–160 seats, while the Trinamool Congress may secure 130–140 seats, with others between six and ten.

People’s Pulse, however, places the Trinamool Congress ahead with 178–189 seats, the BJP at 96–110, and others between one and four.

--IANS

sch/pgh

New Delhi/Bhopal, April 29 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also expressed deep condolences over the heartbreaking road accident that claimed 12 lives and left 13 injured on Wednesday evening at Tirla bypass near Chikliya Phata in Madhya Pradesh's Dhar district.

The accident occurred on Indore-Ahmedabad highway when a pick-up vehicle carrying several labourers including children overturned. According to police officials, the accident occurred near a petrol pump in Chikliya.

The pickup vehicle was full of labourers suddenly went out of control, said the local people adding, around 40 to 45 labourers were riding in the pickup vehicle.

As soon as the vehicle overturned, there was screaming and chaos at the spot. Local people immediately started relief work and informed the police.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also expressed deep condolences to the deceased.

His office wrote his message on X handle: "Deeply pained to hear about the loss of lives in an accident in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh. I extend my heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in this mishap. Prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh each from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of the deceased. The injured would be given Rs 50,000.”

According to police those who have been killed in the accident include -- Tanu (9 years old, Bhil, Nayapur), Anguri (35 years old, female, Bhil, Semlipura), Meena (45 years old, female, Bhil, Pateliya/Rampur), Sumit (14 years old, Bhil, Nayapur), Kiran (9 years old, Bhil, Semlipura), Bhuri (35 years old, female, Bhil, Semlipura), Ranjana (25 years old, female, Bhil, Semlipura), Ayush (14 years old, Bhil, Nayapur), Gokul (15 years old, Bhil, Nayapur), Sunita (42 years old, female, Bhil, Nayapur). Two others have yet to be identified, one of them is female.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also expressed grief over incident. Taking to X, he wrote: "The road accident that occurred near Chikaliya Phata on the Indore-Ahmedabad National Highway in Dhar district is heart-wrenching. My deepest condolences go out to the affected families. I have issued directives to provide financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the deceased, Rs 1 lakh each to those critically injured, and Rs 50,000 each to the injured. The Indore Divisional Commissioner and the Inspector General (IG) has been instructed to proceed to Dhar to oversee the medical arrangements for all the injured will be provided free of cost."

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 29 (IANS) Hardik Pandya admitted Mumbai Indians were simply outplayed on the night despite posting a daunting 243, conceding that poor execution with the ball and missed chances cost them dearly against a relentless Sunrisers Hyderabad batting unit.

“I don't think dew played much of a role. Just that they played some good shots. We bowled some bad balls. They got off to a brisk start. We didn't pull it back. It was not enough,” Pandya said after the defeat at the Wankhede Stadium.

Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma set SRH off to a flying start as the pair went after the MI attack from the get-go to anchor the chase. The pair took their side to 92 for 0 in the powerplay – the highest MI have ever conceded – with Head racing to a 20-ball fifty as the required rate plummeted. MI briefly fought back through AM Ghazanfar and Pandya, who removed Abhishek, Ishan Kishan, and Head in quick succession. But Heinrich Klaasen ensured there was no way back, smashing a 22-ball half-century and dominating the middle overs to keep SRH firmly on track.

Pandya, who picked up a key wicket, reflected on his own outing with mixed feelings. “I enjoyed. I had fun on the ground. 244, I will back my bowlers to defend it. But it wasn't our day. I enjoyed bowling well, barring those last three balls,” he said.

The MI skipper also pointed to dropped chances as a turning point in the contest. “It's been that kind of a season. If you get a couple of chances, you have to grab those. Or else, you will pay the price for it. But it's fine. All the boys have tried hard,” he added.

Despite the defeat, Pandya chose not to single out his bowling unit. “I think this season, we don't have many options. I don't want to put my bowlers under the bus. As an overall unit, we haven't been able to do what the Mumbai Indians stand for. We have passionate owners. We have passionate support staff. Hopefully, we will figure out something,” he said.

Earlier, MI had ridden on a sensational 44-ball century from Ryan Rickelton and a blazing start from Will Jacks to post 243/5, a total Pandya felt should have been enough on most days.

However, the defeat was also reflected in the atmosphere at Wankhede, something Pandya acknowledged candidly. “I think we haven't given them much opportunity to back us. They have been fantastic. They have been loyal. It hurts a bit when they come out and chant the opposition's players' names. But we need to entertain more to get back the love,” he said.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 29 (IANS) A fierce performance from Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, and Heinrich Klaasen guided Sunrisers Hyderabad to a remarkable chase of 243 and beat Mumbai Indians by six wickets in the 41st match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Wednesday.

What started as a tough target quickly became an exciting display of bold batting.

Right from the beginning, SRH showed their determination in chasing 244. Abhishek wasted no time, hitting Trent Boult over covers in the first over before launching a six off T20 World Cup-winner Jasprit Bumrah. Head soon joined in, attacking Boult with a series of boundaries, including a slice over backward point that went through Naman Dhir’s hands for six, followed by two more hits over deep point and backward point. SRH dashed to 43 for 0 after three overs.

Mumbai’s attempt to respond with spin didn’t work as Abhishek and Head took apart Will Jacks in the fifth over, scoring 19 runs with powerful shots. Even Mumbai’s powerplay bowler AM Ghazanfar couldn’t stop them; Head found the fence repeatedly. SRH soared to 74 for 0 after five overs, then exploded further by hitting Bumrah for 28 runs in his first two overs, including a 99-meter six straight down the ground. By the end of the powerplay, SRH had skyrocketed to 92 for 0 after six overs, the joint-highest MI had ever allowed in this phase.

Head was particularly unstoppable, racing to a 20-ball half-century while Abhishek matched him shot for shot. At one point, SRH was scoring at 15.75 runs an over, with the required rate dropping below 10. However, the game shifted momentarily when Ghazanfar took two wickets in two balls, dismissing Abhishek (45) and in-form Ishan Kishan (0). Hardik Pandya then removed Head (76), giving MI a glimmer of hope.

But Klaasen made sure there was no lasting comeback. He took control, hitting Ghazanfar over midwicket and deep midwicket before smashing four boundaries off Ashwani Kumar in one over. Continuing his strong season, Klaasen scored a fifty in 22 balls and then hit another 19 runs off another over from Ghazanfar, shifting the momentum back to SRH’s side.

He finished unbeaten on 65, guided by a small cameo from Salil Arora, who scored 14 off 6 deliveries.

Earlier, Mumbai set a strong total of 243/5, built on an impressive century from Ryan Rickelton and a fast start with Jacks. After a cautious start against Pat Cummins, the pair launched a fierce counterattack, reaching 21/0 in two overs and then 78/0 by the end of the powerplay—their second-highest this season—at a run rate of 13.

Jacks scored 46 off 22 balls with five fours and two sixes, while Rickelton matched him with 37 off 18 with three fours and three sixes. Rickelton then picked up the pace, reaching a fifty in 23 balls and pushing MI past 100 in just 7.4 overs, their fastest this season. Despite losing wickets at the other end, including Jacks, Suryakumar Yadav, and Naman Dhir, Rickelton kept going strong.

He handled every bowler with ease, particularly hitting 22 runs off just seven balls against Harsh Dubey at a strike rate of 314.3. His incredible innings ended with a 44-ball century— the fastest ever by a Mumbai Indians player—as MI raced to 202/3 in 16 overs. Supported by Hardik’s 31 off 15 in a 56-run stand, Rickelton carried through to the end, boosting MI to 243/5.

On a night when scoring over 200 seemed routine, SRH’s outstanding batting—led by Head, Abhishek, and Klaasen—made sure that even a giant total of 243 wasn’t enough, setting a new standard for T20 chasing at Wankhede.

Brief scores:

Mumbai Indians 243/5 in 20 overs (Ryan Rickelton 123 not out, Will Jacks 46; Praful Hinge 2-54, Nitish Reddy 1-31) lost to Sunrisers Hyderabad 249/4 in 18.4 overs (Travis Head 76, Heinrich Klaasen 65; AM Ghazanafar 2-51, Hardik Pandya 1-39) by six wickets.

--IANS

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Bhopal, April 29 (IANS) In a major relief for farmers, the state government has announced an extension of the wheat procurement window, allowing slot booking and procurement until May 23 instead of the earlier deadline of May 9.

The move is aimed at ensuring that more farmers can sell their produce without facing delays or overcrowding at procurement centres.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav wrote on his X handle that, with the convenience of farmers in mind, the window for slot booking and wheat procurement has been extended from May 9 to May 23.

He added that the number of weighing scales at each centre has also been increased to six and, if deemed necessary, the number of weighing scales within the district can be further increased.

He said that to ensure produce is weighed in accordance with the procurement centre’s capacity, thereby enabling procurement from the maximum possible number of farmers, the daily slot booking capacity for wheat sales at each procurement centre has been raised from 1,000 quintals to 2,250 quintals.

He added that at the district level, this limit can be further increased to 3,000 quintals per centre.

The government has also raised the daily slot booking capacity for wheat sales at each procurement centre.

Farmers can now book slots for up to 2,250 quintals per day, more than double the earlier limit of 1,000 quintals.

At the district level, this capacity can be further expanded to 3,000 quintals per centre if required.

Authorities believe this will allow procurement from the maximum possible number of farmers while maintaining efficiency and fairness.

To further streamline the process, the number of weighing scales at each procurement centre has been increased to six.

Officials have clarified that if demand rises, additional weighing scales can be installed at the district level to handle the load.

This step is expected to reduce waiting times and ensure faster weighing and procurement of wheat.

Officials emphasised that the changes have been introduced keeping in mind the convenience of farmers and the need to ensure that procurement is carried out smoothly across the state.

By expanding both the time window and the capacity of centres, the government aims to prevent bottlenecks and guarantee that farmers receive timely payments for their produce.

The revised system reflects the administration’s commitment to supporting agricultural communities and strengthening procurement infrastructure.

With these measures, farmers are expected to benefit from reduced congestion, quicker processing, and greater opportunities to sell their wheat at government-approved rates.

--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, April 29 (IANS) Not just in acting, Nana Patekar can give any of his young contemporaries a run for their money when it comes to fitness as well.

On Wednesday, photographer and producer Atul Kasbekar took to his official Instagram handle and uploaded a video of the veteran actor nailing 15 consecutive tricep dips, that too without breaking a sweat.

The clip dropped by Atul on the photo-sharing app showed Nana wearing tan shorts, paired with a white baniyan, with a gamcha wrapped around his neck.

He was seen flawlessly executing the tricep dips, even smiling at the end.

Applauding Nana for shelling major fitness goals even at this age, Atul wrote the caption, “A-Ho Nana Sahebbb…!!! You just made me reset my fitness goals!!! That’s #NanaPatekar ji. He’s 76. That’s him cranking out tricep dips on the bars. He did 15 (I started recording late). (sic)”.

Explaining why he could not get all 15 dips on video, he added. “I’m slow on the draw some days,”

“But…Back to Nana Saheb. What. A. Legend," concluded Atul.

Many members from the film fraternity, such as Shilpa Shetty, Viineet Kumar Siingh, and Rahul Dev, shared fire and red heart emoticons in the comment section, showing their appreciation.

Some of the Instagram users also referred to Nana's beloved character, Uday Shetty from the 'Welcome' franchise. They shared comments like “Control Uday Control”, and “Uday bhai still looking fit.”

Shifting our focus to Nana's 2025 releases, he was a part of "Housefull 5" co-starring Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, and Riteish Deshmukh, along with others.

Additionally, he was also seen as a cop in Vishal Bhardwaj's recent release "O'Romeo", which saw Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri in the lead.

He also did a cameo appearance in Anil Kapoor and Radhika Madan starrer "Subedaar".

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 29 (IANS) Basking in the massive success of the 'Dhurandhar' franchise, actor Ranveer Singh is all set to lead filmmaker Jai Mehta's post-apocalyptic thriller titled “Pralay”.

Recently, many reports claimed that the forthcoming drama has hit a roadblock owing to the alleged “creative differences” between Ranveer and the director.

However, now an insider close to the project has rubbished any such report, clarifying that “Pralay” is still very much on track.

“Reports suggesting any uncertainty around ‘Pralay’ are completely baseless,” the insider shared.

They added that the production of the drama will commence in August this year.

The reports further stated that the pre-production for the drama has already begun.

“Ranveer and Jai have been in continuous discussions and have firmly locked the script. The project has already moved into pre-production, with the entire team actively gearing up to create a never-before-witnessed gigantic spectacle out of Indian cinema. As it stands, ‘Pralay’ is on track to go on floors by August 2026," they went on to add.

Touted to be a VFX-heavy action thriller set in the post-apocalyptic, dystopian world, “Pralay” is expected to explore the zombie genre unlike anything attempted so far in Bollywood.

Having worked on "Pralay" since last year, the filmmaker wishes to mount the project on a grand scale, with an estimated budget of around 300 crore.

Penned by Jai Mehta, along with his “Lootere” writer Vishal Kapoor, the film is being backed by Hansal Mehta under his home banner True Story Films and Ranveer's Maa Kasam Films, in collaboration with Applause Entertainment.

It is further believed that Ranveer will be seen in a completely new look in his next.

Previously, it was reported that "Pralay" was a cinematic adaptation of the bestselling novel "Blindness". However, Hansal Mehta later denied the reports during a recent media interaction.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 29 (IANS) Actress Urvashi Rautela will be seen reprising her role as Poonam Mishra in the second season of the popular show "Inspector Avinash," led by Randeep Hooda.

Speaking about her role, Urvashi said that given the fact that the drama is based on real-life events, she felt a deep sense of responsibility to do justice to her character.

She shared, “Portraying my character in Inspector Avinash has been an incredibly special journey for me because the role is inspired by true life events, and that authenticity was what drew me instantly to the beautifully written script by director Neerraj Pathak. From the moment I came on board, I felt a deep sense of responsibility to do justice to the real-life inspiration behind my character.”

As part of her preparation for the role, Urvashi even met the wife of Inspector Avinash Mishra, on whose life the project is based.

Sharing her experience, she added, “To prepare myself thoroughly, I personally met the real life wife of Inspector Avinash Mishra, whose strength and grace left a lasting impression on me. Spending time with her allowed me to understand not just the visible aspects of her life, but also the silent resilience required to stand beside an officer serving in such a demanding profession."

As proof of her commitment to the part, Urvashi spent almost two years understanding the nuances of her role.

“My preparation went far beyond surface-level research. I invested nearly two years in understanding the mindset, behavior, and emotional depth of a police officer’s wife. I paid close attention to her speech pattern, accent, and personality traits, trying to internalize the subtleties that make her unique,” she explained.

Urvashi further revealed that this character is different from any of her previous work. “This role is very different from anything I have portrayed before, and that difference excited me as an actor. I was especially drawn to exploring the emotional and cultural side of the lives of police officers’ families, because their stories often remain unseen despite the immense sacrifices they make,” she concluded.

--IANS

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Chennai, April 29 (IANS) The makers of director Jeethu Joseph's eagerly awaited Malayalam film 'Drishyam 3', featuring Malayalam superstar Mohanlal in the lead, on Wednesday released the much-awaited teaser of the film, much to the delight of fans and film buffs.

Taking to his X timeline, Mohanlal shared the link to the just released teaser saying, "#Drishyam3 Official Teaser Worldwide Release | May 21st 2026."

The teaser that has been released begins with a recap of the earlier two parts. While the first part's recap is narrated from the point of view of George Kutty (played by Mohanlal), the second part's recap is from the viewpoint of his rivals, the cops.

George Kutty's voice is heard saying, "I am just an ordinary man. My world is small and it comprises just my wife and my children. An unwanted guest invaded our piracy -- a guest who had the power to destroy my family. We sent him back forever to ensure he would never return to ruin our lives."

The second instalment's recap is in the voice of a policeman. "It's like a case that is closed but will never close. Actually, it was not us who were watching him. He was the one watching us. "

This is followed by George Kutty praying in a church. He tells God, "This battle of mine began the day I was born. I had no one to call my own. After much slogging and struggle, I built a family for myself. When there came a time that could shatter it, I acted without thinking about repercussions or consequences. In the process, I did not realise how many people I had hurt. Now, I am scared, sir. I don't know who else is out there watching!"

In the earlier two instalments, the protagonist George Kutty managed to keep his wits about him and therefore was able to handle the challenges thrown by the cops. However, in this upcoming instalment, he himself looks scared. Will a rattled and scared George Kutty be good enough to show presence of mind and face the fresh challenges coming his way?

Drishyam 3 has triggered huge interest in fans and film buffs ever since it was first announced.

The film's release, which was scheduled for April 2 this year, had to be postponed in the wake of the tense situation persisting in the gulf. The film is now slated for release on May 21.

It may be recalled that Mohanlal had completed shooting for his portions for the film in December last year. A video clip of the actor cutting a cake in front of the entire unit to celebrate the completion of his portions had gone viral.

Mohanlal had begun work on this film on the eve of receiving Indian cinema’s highest honour, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, last year.

The film, which is the third instalment in the highly rated franchise, was formally launched with a traditional puja ceremony that was held at a law college near Kochi in September last year.

Director Jeethu Joseph, addressing the media ahead of the launch, had revealed that 'Drishyam 3' would explore the next chapter in the life of Georgekutty, the iconic character played by Mohanlal in the film.

“The film focuses on what happens in Georgekutty’s life after four-and-a-half years. That is the crux of the story,” Joseph had explained.

Producer Antony Perumbavoor, a long-time collaborator of Mohanlal and a key force behind the success of the Drishyam series, had said that the decision to move forward with the third instalment came after extensive discussions.

“The phenomenal response to the first two parts convinced us that Georgekutty’s journey had more to tell. Only after detailed talks with Jeethu did we finalize this new version,” Perumbavoor had stated.

The unit shot at a number of places including Thodupuzha and Vagamon, with the final five-day schedule taking place at Ernakulam.

The Drishyam films have achieved cult status in Indian cinema for their gripping storytelling, intricate suspense, and Mohanlal’s acclaimed performance.

The first film, released in 2013, set new benchmarks in Malayalam cinema, while its sequel, released in 2021, drew record-breaking viewership both in theatres and on streaming platforms.

--IANS

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