Hubballi, July 3 (IANS) Riding on a mammoth partnership between Aneesh KV and Smaran R, Shivamogga Yodhas surged to a commanding seven-wicket victory over Coastal Kings Mangaluru in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 on Thursday. The win helped the Yodhas climb to the second spot on the points table, while Coastal Kings Mangaluru slipped to third.

Earlier in the day, Shreesha Achar, Abhilash Shetty, and Dhanush Gowda all registered figures of 2/33 for the Yodhas to restrict the Coastal Kings to 162/7.

During the chase, Shivamogga Yodhas found themselves in early trouble after slipping to 40/3 at the end of the Power-play. Vasuki Koushik struck first to dismiss orange-cap holder Luvnith Sisodia (5 off 3), before Nischith Pai continued his impressive form by accounting for Tushar Singh (7 off 9) and Naveen MG (20 off 20).

With the innings in the balance, Aneesh KV and Smaran R combined to produce a match-winning, unbeaten partnership of 125 runs off just 75 balls to wrest control of the chase. Aneesh led the counterattack, bringing up a fluent half-century in just 31 deliveries, and finishing the innings with eight fours and two sixes.

By the end of the 15th over, the Yodhas were firmly in command at 127/3. Aneesh further tilted the contest with three consecutive boundaries in the 16th over before Smaran fittingly sealed the chase by launching Nischith over mid-wicket for a maximum. The left-hander also brought up a 32-ball half-century in the process, studded with six fours and two sixes.

Earlier, opting to bat first, Coastal Kings Mangaluru made a steady start through Aadharsh (24 off 17) and Nikin Jose (51 off 41), who stitched together a 35-run opening stand from 31 deliveries. However, Shivamogga Yodhas' disciplined bowling attack ensured the scoring rate never got away during the Power-play.

The innings then unravelled quickly as Coastal Kings Mangaluru lost wickets in clusters. Gowda turned the tide with a superb sixth over, dismissing Aadharsh and Karun Nair (0 off 2) within the space of three deliveries. Shreesha Achar compounded the damage in the eighth over by removing Siddharth Akhil (5 off 10) and Shreyas Gopal (0 off 1), leaving the batting side under pressure.

Jose anchored the innings through the middle overs, adding a valuable 43-run stand with Suraj Ahuja (39 off 19), before Yashovardhan Parantap accounted for him in the 14th over with the score on 103/5. Ahuja then joined forces with CA Karthik (36 not out off 20) to inject momentum into the innings, the pair adding 29 runs in just 13 deliveries.

Abhilash Shetty struck twice late in the innings, removing Ahuja and Rajvir Wadhwa (3), but Karthik remained unbeaten, smashing two fours and three sixes to lift Coastal Kings Mangaluru to a competitive total of 163.

Brief scores:

Coastal Kings Managaluru 162/7 in 20 overs (Nikin Jose 51, Surah Ahuja 39, CA Karthik 36; Shreesha Achar 2/33, Abhilash Shetty 2/33, Dhanush 2/33) lost to Shivamogga Yodhas 165/3 in 18.2 overs (Aneesh KV 76 not out, Smaran R 53 not out; Nischith 2/35) by 7 wickets

--IANS

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London, July 3 (IANS) Rafael Jodar, the NextGenATP star from Spain, came up trumps once again, rallying from a set down, conjuring a piece of Grand Slam magic to win in five sets, which kept his debut campaign at Wimbledon alive on Thursday.

The Spaniard rallied to a 3-6, 6-3, 1-6, 6-3, 6-4 win against his countryman Pablo Carreno Busta in a match that was suspended on Wednesday evening due to darkness. The two players returned to No. 2 Court with Carreno Busta leading by two sets to one and Jodar 2-1 ahead on serve in the fourth set. Jodar went on to rally for a three-hour, 43-minute victory.

After levelling the match at two sets all, Jodar immediately carved out three break points at 0/40 in the opening game of the fifth. Carreno Busta fended off those three break points to hold, but Jodar bounced back from that disappointment by reeling off the next four games to set himself on the path to victory.

Jodar’s two-day win at SW19 marks the second consecutive Grand Slam event at which the fast-rising Spaniard has defeated the former World No. 10 Carreno Busta in five sets. At Roland Garros in May, he rallied from two sets down to defeat the 34-year-old Carreno Busta and reach his first Grand Slam quarter-final on just his second appearance at a major.

Jodar’s only previous experience at Wimbledon before this year came in 2024, when he reached the boys’ singles quarter-finals. By winning his first two matches as a professional at The All England Club (also his first tour-level matches on grass), the 19-year-old has become just the third Spanish teenager in the Open Era to reach the Wimbledon men’s singles third round after former champions Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz.

"It's difficult, because you don't have a lot of time to reset your mind and to this new surface," Jodar said in his post-match press conference. "It's true, it's my first time playing on grass. It wasn't like that when I started playing on clay this season, because I had already played a lot when I was younger on clay. So I just try to adapt.

"I got a good week of preparation here in Wimbledon, the week before starting the tournament, so I'm confident with that. I try to give my best."

Jodar has enjoyed a stunning rise up the PIF ATP Rankings in the past 12 months. A year ago, he was the World No. 554, but he is currently the No. 25 player in the PIF ATP Live Rankings after earning his 26th tour-level match win of 2026. He will take on Japanese qualifier Shintaro Mochizuki next in London, where the winner will advance to a fourth-round showdown with defending champion Jannik Sinner or Jenson Brooksby.

--IANS

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New Delhi, July 3 (IANS) Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Thursday witnessed 24th day of anti-government protests, which drew over 80,000 passionate protesters to the Eidgah grounds in Rawalakot.

What began as demands for basic rights has transformed into a powerful challenge against Islamabad’s long-standing control, with local leaders delivering scathing accusations that strike at the heart of Pakistan’s narrative on regional terrorism.

On Thursday, Sardar Aman Khan, the prominent chief of the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), delivered one of the most explosive speeches of the movement.

In a bold revelation that sent ripples through the crowd, Khan asserted that it was the Pakistan Army itself which supplied weapons and ammunition to Kashmiris across the Line of Control.

“It was the Pakistan Army that handed guns to Kashmiris. And today, they dare to call us terrorists,” he declared, his words met with thunderous applause.

Khan further highlighted a Jaish-e-Mohammed rally held in Rawalakot in February last year, where armed participants openly paraded through the streets brandishing AK-47s and swords.

He pointedly reminded authorities that the Deputy Commissioner of Rawalakot had not only permitted the event but also provided security for it.

“Deputy Commissioner Rawalakot, you used to organise rallies here with guns and swords. Do you remember? And now you call us terrorists,” he said. “All these people are heirs of this land.”

The protest movement, which has united locals across PoK, revolves around 38 key demands.

Khan issued a stern warning that if these are not immediately accepted and implemented, the agitation will evolve beyond reform into a full-fledged call for Pakistan to completely withdraw from the region.

Earlier, demonstrators in Rawalakot had openly rejected Islamabad’s dominance, with several speakers suggesting the time had come for deeper engagement with India.

In a particularly pointed remark, Khan emphasised that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir does not belong to Pakistan and that Islamabad relies on the region far more than its residents do.

The protests are no longer confined to local grounds. Expatriate supporters have taken to the streets outside Pakistani diplomatic missions in multiple countries, amplifying the movement’s international echo.

As tensions mount, the Rawalakot gatherings reflect a profound shift in sentiment among PoK residents, who increasingly view themselves not as beneficiaries of Pakistani rule but as victims of it.

Whether this groundswell will force meaningful concessions from Islamabad or spiral into a broader crisis remains to be seen, but the voices rising from Rawlakot Eidgah are growing impossible to ignore.

--IANS

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London, July 3 (IANS) Alexander Zverev, the newly crowned French Open champion and the No.2 seed, and Matteo Berrettini breezed into the third round at Wimbledon, securing impressive wins at the All-England Club in London on Thursday.

Zverev, who seems to have taken a lot of confidence from his success at Roland Garros, produced a dominant 6-1, 6-3, 7-6(3) win over Valentin Royer, the world No.75 from France, in two hours and four minutes.

“For two and a half sets, I played an almost perfect match,” Zverev said after the match. “And then I lost a bit of focus, lost a bit of concentration, and he used it very well. And he made it very interesting in the end, but I was definitely happy to be through in straight sets.

“I'm not old yet, but I'm getting to an age where I think you need to save energy, and I think it also builds confidence when you win easily, when you win in straight sets.

“I think it helps with your confidence, especially for me at Wimbledon. I love this tournament, but I'm still waiting for a big result. And if I continue playing like this, I definitely think it can happen this year.”

Berrettini, the 2021 Wimbledon runner-up, got the better of Arthur Fils at Centre Court, producing multiple aces and a superb performance that left the fans celebrating with him.

The Italian, now ranked No.51, rebounded from the loss of a set to see off the No.20 seed Fils 6-4, 7-5, 3-6, 6-3 and is into the third round for the first time since 2023.

Local star Fery in the third round

Meanwhile, local star Arthur Fery booked his passage into the third round of the men’s singles at Wimbledon with the biggest win of his nascent career. The 23-year-old, a former schoolboy educated just down the road from the All England Club, defeated Otto Virtanen 5-7, 7-6(3), 6-3, 6-3 to become only the fourth British wild card to reach the third round of the men’s singles at Wimbledon since 2000.

Though Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales was in attendance for part of this second-round match, Fery seemed unfazed by his celebrated spectator and added to his recent performances, having reached grass-court finals in Birmingham and Nottingham this summer. Recently, he had knocked out No.4 seed Ben Shelton in his previous match.

But despite winning the first set of this particular contest, Virtanen wasn’t able to impose his big game on his less-experienced rival, who dominated the match after winning the second-set tie-break.

Afterwards, Fery, who has the shortest of commutes in and out of work this week, said: “Playing five minutes from where I grew up, it’s super special. Lots of friends, family, family members, people that I know in the crowd. When I do look around, I always see a familiar face.”

--IANS

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Bhubaneswar, July 2 (IANS) Amid the statewide indefinite strike by the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA), the Odisha Government on Thursday appealed to the agitating doctors to withdraw their protest, resume duties immediately and join discussions, while assuring that healthcare services across the state continue uninterrupted.

The government said healthcare services are continuing smoothly and peacefully across Odisha, with arrangements in place to ensure that patient care remains unaffected.

The state government, in an official statement, noted that even before the strike called by the OMSA began, Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Mukesh Mahaling, along with the Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Health Department and the Director of Health Services, held detailed discussions with representatives of OMSA. The department also continued dialogue with the association at various levels.

The government underscored that it has already accepted several long-pending demands of doctors and implemented measures such as cadre restructuring, Dynamic Assured Career Progression (DACP), Special Incentives and Place-based Incentives. It also highlighted that several initiatives have been undertaken to facilitate doctors' higher education and professional development.

Reiterating its commitment to addressing the legitimate concerns of doctors, the government said it has always remained sensitive to their genuine demands.

“The State Government has always remained considerate towards the legitimate demands of doctors. However, the interests of patients and the uninterrupted delivery of healthcare services are being accorded the highest priority. Therefore, the agitating doctors have been urged to immediately resume their duties. The Government is fully ready to hold constructive discussions on their demands once they return to work,” the government said.

Accordingly, the government has urged the agitating doctors to immediately return to work. It assured that once they resume duties, it is fully prepared to hold constructive discussions on their demands.

Invoking the principle of "Service is the highest duty," the government appealed to the doctors to withdraw their agitation and continue serving patients as before.

“If the interests of patients and the delivery of healthcare services are adversely affected, the Government will be compelled to take appropriate and necessary action,” cautioned the Government.

Notably, the doctors have been observing an indefinite strike since Wednesday over a 10-point charter of demands, urging the State Government to address their grievances.

--IANS

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Jerusalem, July 2 (IANS) As Israel works to revive international tourism following years of COVID-19, regional conflict and security concerns, one of the country's most celebrated restaurants is quietly telling a story of resilience.

Overlooking the blue waters of the Mediterranean in the ancient port city of Akko, the iconic seafood restaurant Uri Buri has survived a devastating fire, a global pandemic, repeated wars and the collapse of international tourism, thanks largely to loyal local patrons, a multicultural workforce and an unwavering belief in hope.

Uri Jeremias, the restaurant owner and a very popular chef in Israel, shared his perspective on the struggle faced with a drop in tourism and the situation they are facing in order to survive.

"I am Uri, born Uri Jeremias, but known in Israel as Uri Buri. This is the name of the restaurant. Buri is a grey mullet, actually. So, today we are here in Akko, which is the central city of this area, of the Western Galilee. And the restaurant is in the Arab part of the city, which is populated mainly by Arabs, Muslims, and Christians. I opened the restaurant here in Nahariya in 1988," Uri Jeremias told IANS.

"Today we are working here with people from all backgrounds, Jews, Arabs, Christians, newcomers to Israel, and all languages and all cultures, religions, and sexual preferences. We don't mind who comes to work. We want to have people who want to be together and to work together… we have people working here for 30 years, and more than half of our workers are here more than 10 years."

Speaking about how the war has affected his restaurant and culinary tourism in Israel, Uri said, "We had like 50-60 per cent tourists in our restaurant, and this dropped to almost zero. So the last six, seven years were not really easy with all the wars and COVID and other events that we had here. But this stable clientele that we built up during the years has kept us with our head above water, you know? And we can't complain. And on top of it, it doesn't help to complain. So we are happy with what we have and very proud of our team and our clients."

Uri also shared with people about Israel, saying, "This time, and with all the troubles, the country is blooming. And businesses are going on. We don't have tourists. It is a kind of damage to the tourist economy, and so on. But other things are blooming, and in general, life goes on. And this is something that people don't understand. The beat goes on; we are here, the restaurant is working. In the hardest days, we didn't close one day. We were closed on days when we were supposed to close by government decision, but it was, I think, one month or so. All the difficult times when rockets were flying, we were working."

--IANS

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Agartala, July 2 (IANS) Tripura Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Thursday announced that the state government would expand mango cultivation across an additional 55 hectares of land in mountainous Dhalai district, besides providing more infrastructure and financial assistance to strengthen the livelihoods of mango growers and enhance their income.

The Minister made the announcement after inaugurating the Monsoon Mango Festival 2026 at Narikelkunja in tribal people inhabited Gandatwisa sub-division under Dhalai district.

Highlighting the state's efforts to promote horticulture, Nath said the government is committed to transforming Gandatwisa sub-division and the picturesque Dumboor region into a major mango cultivation hub with national and global recognition.

“Our Queen variety pineapple is world famous. I have seen many varieties of mangoes, but the mangoes grown in Dumboor are truly exceptional. The state government will promote the Mango Festival on a much larger scale to put Gandatwisa and Dumboor on the world map,” the Minister said.

He said the region is home to a wide range of mango varieties and has recorded impressive productivity.

"To further encourage mango growers, we are organising this festival and have decided to bring an additional 55 hectares of land in Gandatwisa under mango cultivation.

"We are also providing financial assistance to rejuvenate old mango orchards. No previous government extended such support to the growers. We have already ensured deep irrigation facilities for mango orchards and will provide five more cold chambers to help farmers preserve their produce. Our objective is to improve farmers' livelihoods and double their income,” Nath said.

The Minister said that around 259 farmers have been instrumental in making Gandatwisa a recognised centre for mango cultivation.

“I urge everyone to visit Dumboor. Homestay facilities are also available here, making it an attractive tourism destination. The primary objective of our government is to generate employment in every household and make Tripura self-reliant. I have been a member of the Assembly for 33 years, and the condition of Gandatwisa in the past was extremely backward. People were unable to visit the area because of insurgency. However, over the last eight years, the situation has undergone a remarkable transformation, which reflects the success of the double-engine government,” he said.

The Minister urged farmers to focus on cultivating mangoes, pineapple, ginger, bird's eye chilli, banana and other high-value crops, while ensuring that no cultivable land remains unused.

"We have many varieties of mangoes, and I sincerely thank the farmers who have worked hard to cultivate them. We could have organised this event in Agartala, but we chose Gandatwisa because our government's development agenda is centred on reaching the last person in society," Nath added.

The Agriculture Minister said that around 58,000 hectares of land in entire Tripura are currently under fruit cultivation, of which nearly 10,000 hectares are devoted to mango cultivation.

“On average, Tripura produces around five metric tonnes of mangoes per hectare, while productivity in Gandatwisa has reached nearly nine metric tonnes per hectare. We are determined to further develop Gonda Twisa sub-division and the Dumboor region as a leading centre for mango cultivation and allied activities,” he said.

--IANS

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New Delhi, July 2 (IANS) The government has categorically said that only those who have qualified and can deliver good performance will be cleared by the government for the upcoming Asian Games, said Minister of Youth and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, clarifying that major events, including the Asian and Commonwealth Games, are not “exposure tours”.

The Minister's categorical assertion came in response to a move for inclusion of the Indian football team in the Indian contingent for the Asian Games 2026, starting on September 19.

Dr. Mandaviya made it clear that there would be complete transparency in the selection of the contingent, but, at the same time, there would be strict scrutiny of entries, and travellers would not be included simply to make up the numbers.

“Asian Games or Commonwealth Games are not for exposure; it is a platform for athletes who can make the country proud. That is why we have the selection criteria saying only the top six in continental rankings would be considered. Exposure can be gained elsewhere; there is enough time and competition through the years," the Minister said during an interaction in New Delhi on Thursday.

“The ministry will never stop anyone from that. If federations prepare a training or exposure plan for LA 2028 and submit it to us now, they will have our full support for the next two years. Even individual athletes who wish to train anywhere in the world will be assisted. But going to the Asian Games simply for participation means jobs will not be cleared,” he declared.

The Ministry has also indicated that the Indian contingent for the Asian Games at Aichi-Nagoya is expected to be capped at 560. Dr. Mandaviya said that while all federations had to follow the ministry guidelines for selections, the ministry had the final word in clearing names.

“Videography in the presence of a government observer is mandatory. The selected names are then sent to the IOA, which forwards them to the Sports Authority of India for vetting. That list then comes to the ministry for final clearance, and only those will be allowed,” he added.

--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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Los Angeles, July 2 (IANS) Hollywood actress Anya Taylor-Joy has shared the reason behind her taking up the profession of acting.

The actress has shared that she went into acting because she wanted to "ride" a whale, reports ‘Female First UK’.

The 30-year-old star was fascinated by large animals when she was growing up and after initially setting her sights on a "made-up job" studying her favourite creatures, she was then inspired to change direction after watching the 1993 family drama ‘Free Willy’, which tells the story of a young orphan and his friendship with a captive orca.

Discussing what she would have done if she hadn't been an actress, Anya told Extra, "I really wanted to be a made-up job, which was a large animal biologist. I really wanted to work with tigers and orcas, and I needed to find a job that like combined those two mammals together. So, I think I'd probably be working in some sort of conservationism or I'd be a travel journalist. I wanted to be an actor because I saw ‘Free Willy’. I wanted to be the kid that rode the whale”.

As per ‘Female First UK’, ‘The Queen's Gambit’ star can next be seen in Lucky, playing the titular con artist, who goes on the run after a heist goes wrong.

But Anya didn't have to undergo much training for the physical scenes because she and director Jonathan Van Tullekin felt it was important to show her character's lack of natural athleticism.

She added, “For Lucky because she's not somebody who is naturally that athletic. The director Jonathan Van Tulleken and I talked a lot about kind of trying to do everything as badly as you could so that the audience feels a real sense of risk and they feel like you're really getting by on the skin of your teeth. So, it was fun”.

--IANS

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Mumbai, July 2 (IANS) Stars: 4.5 stars Director: Nachiket Samant Cast: Huma Qureshi, Seema Pahwa, Chunky Panday and Sikandar Kher

Every so often a film arrives that refuses to resemble anything around it. Baby Do Die Do is that film, a noir soaked in rain, mood and menace, stacked with twists that keep you pinned to the edge of your seat, and quite unlike anything Bollywood has served up in recent memory.

At its centre is Baby Karmarkar, a deaf-and-mute hitwoman operating in an overcrowded Mumbai. A trauma from her past, the murder of her sister, sets off a long, futile search for the killer and pulls her into a life of violence. She carries a gun in her umbrella and eliminates the obstacles standing in the way of her higher bosses, the city’s real-estate mafia. Mostly common men. But the moment she is pushed into killing someone of importance, her carefully sealed world begins to unravel. Just as Baby starts imagining a normal life, one filled with love, for yes, there is a tender love angle here, fuelled by a lovely track from Mohit Chauhan, her violent past starts closing in. And it is in her fight to protect that love, the one glowing thing in her life, that her twenty-year-long hunt for revenge is finally answered.

The film is carried by an eclectic ensemble Huma Qureshi, Chunky Pandey, Sikandar Kher, Seema Pahwa, Rachit Singh, Marudhar Shekhawat, Arun Kushwaha and more, each shouldering the story and impressing amply. But it is Huma Qureshi who rises head and shoulders above the rest. Handicapped, by design, with a character who cannot speak or hear, she speaks volumes with her eyes alone, love and violence rendered with equal force. This is the role of her life.

The music never lets up, each song landing harder than the last. Composer Arjun Iyer delivers banger upon banger, scoring this quirky tale of revenge with real flair. Tojo Xavier’s camerawork is instantly arresting, moody, textured, and central to how singular the film looks. And director Nachiket Samant plays his notes bold and expressive, on the front foot throughout; the bravery of both the narrative and the design is genuinely pathbreaking. That bravery extends behind the camera too: backing a project this bold takes real guts, and producer Saqib Saleem hits it out of the park.

The particular strain of quirk this film finds inside dangerous, high-stakes situations is a rare thing in Bollywood, a register few filmmakers, a Sriram Raghavan among them, have even attempted successfully. The treatment is quirky, confident and, quite simply, cool.

Rains. Mood. Music. Revenge. Love. Quirk. It has it all. Emphatically not-seen-before and for exactly that reason, a must watch. So drop everything and go to the theatres to watch Baby Do Die Do now!

--IANS

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Mumbai, July 2 (IANS) Stars: 4 stars Director: Abhishek Nama Cast: John Vijay, Nabha Natesh, Iswarya Menon, Mahesh Manjrekar

South makers have done wonders once again. At a time when audiences are craving larger-than-life cinematic experiences rooted in Indian culture and mythology, Nagabandham arrives as an ambitious spectacle that blends mystery, mythology, fantasy and adventure into an engrossing big-screen entertainer. Foremost credit goes to the producers Nishitha Nagireddy and Kishore Annapureddy, the duo under the banners of NIK Studios and Abhishek Pictures, have given the film the scale, craft and budget it demands. The budget, the scale and the vision of the film is at par in comparison with some of the biggies. Mounted on a lavish scale, the film starts on a very intriguing note and right from the first frame it captures you into the world, the drama. As it progresses it continues to impresses with its visual ambition, the character introduction, immersive world-building and sincere storytelling, making it one of the most ambitious pan-India releases of the year. Without wasting any single time the film sticks to the subject.

The unfolding of mysterious universe where ancient secrets, divine legends and hidden treasures shape the narrative. Rather than rushing through its mythology, the film gradually builds intrigue around the ancients and what 'Nagabandham' is. This measured approach keeps the audience invested while continuously expanding the film's rich cinematic universe.

The film begins with the impresive introduction of Rishabh Sawhney who is olayiytge main antagonist in the film and then transports us to the drama that is very interesting.

Director Abhishek Nama deserves appreciation for attempting a genre that demands conviction and imagination. His vision remains consistent throughout, balancing mythology with fantasy while ensuring the emotional core never gets lost beneath the visual grandeur. The screenplay unfolds like an adventure, introducing fresh mysteries at regular intervals and maintaining curiosity until the very end.

Visuals are Nagabandham's undoubtedly the biggest strengths. Every frame reflects meticulous craftsmanship, from magnificent temple architecture and ancient kingdoms to breathtaking action sequences and mystical landscapes. The production values are first-rate, while the VFX complement the storytelling without overwhelming it. The film consistently feels designed for the biggest screens.

Virat Karrna, who is essaying the main protoganist delivers a confident performance, carrying the narrative with sincerity and intensity. Nabha Natesh lends grace and emotional depth to her character, while Rishabh Sawhney leaves a strong impression with his commanding screen presence in the character of the main antagonist. Mahesh Manjrekar stands out in a pivotal role of saint ,adding gravitas whenever he appears. Daksha Nagarkar and the supporting cast contribute effectively, making the expansive world feel believable.

The action choreography especially the Interval block and CLIMAX deserves special mention. Instead of relying solely on spectacle, the action sequences are integrated into the mythology, making every confrontation feel purposeful. Several moments involving serpents, ancient rituals and large-scale battles generate genuine goosebumps and showcase the makers' ambition.

Technically, Nagabandham is polished across departments. The cinematography captures both the grandeur and mysticism beautifully, while the background score elevates the emotional and adventurous moments. The editing keeps the narrative engaging despite the film's expansive scale, and the sound design enhances the theatrical experience.

One of the film's biggest achievements is how it respects Indian mythology while presenting it through an entertaining fantasy-adventure lens. Rather than merely recreating familiar legends, it creates its own mythology-inspired universe that feels fresh and cinematic.

If there is one area where the film occasionally slows down, it is during portions dedicated to explaining the mythology, which may slightly affect the pace. However, the narrative quickly regains momentum with compelling twists, visually stunning sequences and emotionally satisfying payoffs.

With Nagabandham, South filmmakers once again demonstrate why they continue to lead the way in creating ambitious, pan-India cinematic spectacles. The film combines mythology, fantasy, adventure and emotion into an entertaining package that is tailor-made for the theatrical experience.

For audiences looking for a grand visual adventure filled with mystery, ancient legends, spectacular action and impressive world-building, Nagabandham is a rewarding watch.

--IANS

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Mumbai, July 2 (IANS) Actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui recalled the time he and his classmates tried to cheat during an exam.

Speaking during 'The Kapil Sharma Show', Nawazuddin revealed that someone had told them that they could cheat openly as their invigilator had a habit of sleeping during the examination.

"We were all waiting patiently to take out our cheat sheets, but the invigilator did not sleep for three hours."

Understandably, their exam did not go well, so they asked someone, "You guys told us that he would sleep during the exam, but he did not sleep."

In a hilarious twist, the person informed them that the invigilator sleeps with his eyes open.

Nawazuddin further revealed to host Kapil Sharma that despite cheating so much, he never got caught.

Coming to his professional commitments, Nawazuddin will next grace the screen with the second installment of “Tumbbad”.

Talking about the shoot, he had shared that it was going to be a working festival for him.

He said, “It is going to be a working festival for me. Even on Eid, I am shooting for Tumbbad 2. I am very excited about bringing this character to life as it has multiple layers.”

The original drama “Tumbbad” reached the audience back in 2018. Made under the direction of Rahi Anil Barve and Anand Gandhi, the project was led by Sohum Shah, who essayed the role of Vinayak Rao.

The project revolves around the search for a hidden 20th-century treasure in the Indian village of Tumbbad, Maharashtra.

‘Tumbbad 2’ is slated to be out on December 3, 2027.

Sharing the release date for the sequel, the makers wrote on social media, “A sinful past, an ominous future. The hunger rises, the legacy of greed continues… Mark your calendars #Tumbbad2 arrives on 3. 12. 2027”.

Helmed by Adesh Prasad, ‘Tumbbad 2’ has been produced by Sohum Shah under his banner Sohum Shah Films, along with Pen Studios.

--IANS

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