New Delhi, July 21 (IANS) More than 118 police personnel from the Delhi Police and Central Police Forces sustained injuries during “violent protests” in the national capital on Monday.

The injured officers include senior ranks such as Special Commissioner, Joint Commissioner, Additional Commissioner, and Deputy Commissioner, who were deployed on duty at the protest site, the Delhi Police said.

The clashes erupted as thousands of supporters of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and students marched from Jantar Mantar towards Parliament, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over recurring examination irregularities, including the NEET-UG paper leaks. Police had already imposed prohibitory orders and set up barricades to prevent the march from proceeding further.

According to a statement on the X handle of Delhi Police: “During today’s violent protests, more than 118 police personnel from Delhi Police and Central Police Forces, including Special Commissioner, Joint Commissioner, Additional Commissioner, and Deputy Commissioner rank officers deployed on duty, sustained injuries.”

The situation turned violent when protesters attempted to break through the barricades. The police bore a significant brunt of the violence, with over 118 personnel reported injured.

Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar visited the hospital where the injured officers are being treated. He personally met with the personnel, enquired about their well-being, and motivated them.

In a statement, the Commissioner highlighted the dedication of the force, saying, “Every injury on the uniform bears witness to dedication to duty.”

The protests, which began at Jantar Mantar, saw participation from students, opposition leaders, and activists demanding accountability in the education system. Senior police officials have assured a thorough investigation into the violence.

Meanwhile, prohibitory orders remain in place around sensitive areas to prevent any further escalation. The Delhi Police have appealed for calm and urged all parties to maintain peace and cooperate with law enforcement agencies.

As political and student groups continue their agitation, the focus remains on ensuring public safety, the police said.

--IANS

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Muscat (Oman), July 21 (IANS) The Indian sub-junior men's and women's teams made winning starts in their respective campaigns at the FIH Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship 2026 in Muscat, Oman, on Monday.

The Indian teams are placed in the Elite Pools of the men's and women's competition. The Indian women's team was the first to start its campaign on the tournament's opening day against Kazakhstan and won 8-3. The men's team faced Bangladesh in their opening match later and registered a 7-3 victory.

The women's team, led by Diya's hat-trick (14', 15', 20'), produced a dominant attacking display. Sandeepa Kumari (3', 12'), Nousheen Naz (6', 9') and Nilam Topno (7') were the others to get on the scoresheet.

India built a commanding lead in the opening half before continuing the momentum upon restart, with Diya completing a clinical second-half hat-trick to put the result beyond doubt.

Dilnaz Nigmetzhanova (17', 18') and Yasmin Seiitzhan (20') scored for Kazakhstan.

The Indian men's team also impressed in its tournament opener, with goals from Rahul Yadav (2'), Karan Gautam (4'), captain Ketan Kushwaha (8', 14'), Romit Pal (10', 15') and Prahalad Rajbhar (16') securing a comprehensive 7-3 win over Bangladesh.

India maintained control for most of the contest, responding strongly whenever Bangladesh threatened to close the gap. Nure (2'), Sabbir Rahman (5') and Md. Islam (14') were the goal scorers for Bangladesh.

The tournament is also the Asian qualifier for the inaugural FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup.

Fresh from impressive performances at the U18 Asia Cup earlier this year, the Indian sub-junior men’s and women’s hockey teams are hoping to excel in the inaugural FIH Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship 2026.

The Indian sub-junior men’s team, coached by Sardar Singh, comprises players from the team that clinched the U18 Men’s Asia Cup 2026 title, defeating hosts Japan 4-1 in the final. It has been placed in the Elite Pool alongside hosts Oman, Pakistan and Bangladesh.

The Indian sub-junior women’s team, coached by Rani, features players who secured the bronze medal at the U18 Women’s Asia Cup 2026. The team has been drawn in the Elite Pool with China, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

The Elite Pool follows a double round-robin format, with each team playing the other teams twice. The top two teams at the end of the league stage will advance directly to the gold medal match, while the third-placed team will qualify for the bronze medal match. The fourth-placed team will face the top-ranked Challenger Pool team in a qualification match, with the winner progressing to the bronze medal match.

--IANS

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New Delhi, July 21 (IANS) Abhijit Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), has strongly condemned the Delhi Police for allegedly using excessive force against students during a march from Jantar Mantar to Parliament.

Addressing the media, Dipke announced that while the Parliament march was cancelled mid-way to ensure student safety, the ongoing agitation and hunger strike led by Sonam Wangchuk will continue until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns.

Speaking to IANS, Dipke claimed that the protest was entirely peaceful, yet the police initiated a brutal lathi-charge, injuring many students. He alleged that female students were also subjected to mistreatment near the barricades, with reports of head injuries, broken limbs, and other serious wounds.

“Our students were determined to march to Parliament despite the risks, but we had to prioritise their safety to prevent any major tragedy,” he said.

Meanwhile, Delhi Police said more than 100 of its personnel received injuries during the students’ protest.

Dipke questioned the government's intentions, especially after a meeting with Union Minister J.P. Nadda. The CJP leader also reacted to the FIR registered against activist Saurabh Das, demanding that if action is taken against protesters, the Education Minister should also be held accountable for the NEET-UG controversies that have led to multiple student suicides.

Despite the police action, Dipke welcomed the opposition parties for raising the NEET-UG issue in Parliament on the first day of the Monsoon Session.

“The opposition kept its promise to the students. However, our protest will not stop. We will continue raising our voices until Dharmendra Pradhan resigns,” he asserted.

The cancellation of the march to Parliament comes after thousands of students and supporters gathered at Jantar Mantar to demand systemic reforms to the examination process and accountability for repeated paper leaks.

Dipke expressed gratitude to the opposition parties for raising the NEET-UG issue in Parliament on the first day of the Monsoon Session.

He noted that the opposition had kept its promise to the students by bringing up the matter in the House. However, he made it clear that the agitation and protests would continue until Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigns.

--IANS

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Kolkata, July 20 (IANS) Tourism in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands may not reach its full potential for at least the next five years, following the government of India’s decision to shelve the proposed project to extend the runway of the Indian Navy’s air station INS Baaz at Campbell Bay to 10,000 feet.

According to sources in the Andaman and Nicobar Administration (ANA), the island chain is losing tourists to destinations such as Thailand, primarily due to high airfares and uncertainties regarding landings and takeoffs at Veer Savarkar Airport in Sri Vijaya Puram (formerly Port Blair).

“We are now handling barely 60–65 per cent of the tourist traffic that can be sustainably accommodated in the Andamans. The airfare from a location like Kolkata hovers around Rs 8,000 for a one-way economy class ticket. In comparison, the airfare from Kolkata to Bangkok is around Rs 9,000–9,500. With Thailand offering visa on arrival, tourists obviously prefer a trip to the foreign destination, though there is more that the Andamans can offer,” an official said.

Indian carriers like Air India Express say they have to keep fares high as there is no knowing when the weather packs up over Sri Vijaya Puram, and flights are forced to return to the mainland.

The archipelago has no alternative airport where commercial jets can land. The 4,500 feet runway at INS Baaz is not adequate for Boeing 737s or Airbus A320s that domestic airlines operate between the mainland and the Andamans.

For over a decade, those in the ANA, as well as the Tri-Services Command in the archipelago, have been urging the Government to extend the runway at Campbell Bay and create basic infrastructure for passengers to make a temporary stopover there.

For the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), more tourism would mean improved infrastructure and greater global focus on this part of Indian territory.

The Government scrapped the Campbell Bay project, citing environmental concerns and tribal welfare. Navigational issues were also mentioned. It is now concentrating on the civil-military greenfield airport slated to come up at Chingen, near Galathea Bay, as part of the Great Nicobar Project. This airport, worth Rs 13,000 crore, is set to become operational in 2031.

Officials, however, believe the timeline could be extended, as projects in the Andamans are heavily dependent on materials, manpower, and equipment from the mainland. Though clearances have been obtained, debate continues on the environmental consequences and problems to be faced by local tribals.

“Ideally, the runway at Campbell Bay should have been extended first. There would have been no problem if a third airport had come up at Galathea Bay. It would have given more options to civilian flights, thereby bringing down fares even further,” the official said.

--IANS

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Ahmedabad, July 20 (IANS) A joint team of surgeons from Ahmedabad Civil Hospital and the U.N. Mehta Institute of Cardiology and Research Centre has successfully performed a rare and highly complex eight-hour operation to remove kidney cancer that had spread into a patient's heart, saving the life of a 50-year-old woman.

The patient, identified as Hansaben, was diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma in her left kidney.

Further examinations revealed that the cancer had formed a tumour thrombus, a mass extending through the renal vein into the inferior vena cava (IVC), the body's largest vein carrying deoxygenated blood to the heart, and had reached the right atrium.

Doctors said such cases are uncommon and among the most challenging to treat surgically.

Following multidisciplinary planning involving specialists from different departments, surgeons from the Department of Urology at Civil Hospital and the Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery (CTVS) Department at the U.N. Mehta Institute carried out the operation over approximately eight hours.

The procedure involved removing the cancerous kidney as well as extracting the tumour thrombus from the inferior vena cava and the right atrium.

To complete the surgery safely, the team used advanced techniques including cardiopulmonary bypass and hypothermic circulatory arrest, in which the body's temperature is lowered, and blood circulation is temporarily stopped.

"The operation posed several challenges, including controlling significant blood loss, preventing the tumour thrombus from breaking away and causing a fatal embolism in the lungs or brain, and maintaining the patient's blood pressure and other vital parameters throughout the procedure," doctors said.

The patient was successfully taken off ventilator support on the second day after surgery and is recovering well.

According to the officials, a procedure of this complexity, including intensive care, cardiopulmonary bypass, blood transfusions and post-operative treatment, would typically cost between Rs 8 lakh and Rs 15 lakh or more at a private hospital.

The entire treatment was provided free of cost under the state government's healthcare schemes at the Civil Hospital campus.

State Health Minister Praful Pansheriya congratulated the medical team on the successful surgery.

He praised the work of Civil Hospital's Head of Urology Dr Shrenik Shah, Dr Dhaval Desai, Dr Nirav Agrawal, Dr Akash Fauzdar and Dr Darshan Patel, along with U.N. Mehta Hospital Director Dr Chirag Doshi and CTVS surgeons Dr Jignesh Kothari and Dr Akash Shah.

The minister said that under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, patients at Ahmedabad Civil Medicity are receiving advanced and highly complex treatment comparable to that available in private hospitals, either free of charge or at nominal cost.

"This successful surgery is a living example of our patient-centred services, modern technology and the excellent coordination between two major institutions. Our firm commitment is that no needy patient in the state should be deprived of high-quality treatment because of financial hardship," he said.

Ahmedabad Civil Hospital Superintendent Dr Rakesh Joshi said the operation demonstrated the value of close collaboration between the two government institutions.

"This successful surgery is an excellent example of the outstanding coordination between Ahmedabad Civil Hospital and the U.N. Mehta Institute, as well as the multidisciplinary approach involving different departments. Such medical achievements become possible only when experts from two major government institutions work together. This strong coordination is helping provide new life and renewed hope to patients suffering from highly complex cancers," he said.

Explaining the rarity of the case, Dr Shrenik Shah said: "Among patients with renal cell carcinoma, venous tumour thrombus is seen in only four to 10 per cent of cases, and extension of the thrombus up to the heart occurs in only about one per cent. If the cancer has not spread to other organs and the tumour thrombus is completely removed through timely surgery, the patient can go on to live a long and healthy life."

Doctors said the case highlights the importance of multidisciplinary planning and advanced surgical techniques in managing rare and life-threatening forms of kidney cancer involving the heart.

--IANS

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London, July 20 (IANS) Liverpool, Newcastle United and England great Kevin Keegan died at the age of 75, seven weeks after revealing he had been diagnosed with stage four cancer, his family confirmed on Monday.

The former England captain and manager is one of the country's most decorated players -- he was an attacking midfielder who also played as a forward-- and enjoyed successful spells at Scunthorpe United, Liverpool, Hamburg, Southampton and Newcastle during an illustrious playing career. Later he managed Newcastle, Fulham and Manchester City and the national men's squad.

"We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan, one of the most iconic, influential and deeply loved figures in our club’s history. Kevin was more than a legendary footballer and manager. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters," Newcastle United announced in posts on its official social media handle.

As a player, he brought world-class talent, ambition and belief to St. James’ Park, helping to transform perceptions of what Newcastle United could be.

"As a manager, he ignited our city. Kevin gave supporters hope and pride, and led a team whose style, spirit and passion captured the imagination of football fans around the world. He was so much more than an Entertainer.

"Above all that, Kevin forged an extraordinary bond with Newcastle, built on the roots of his father, Joe. He understood our people. He embraced the North East with a passion that was genuine and unwavering, and in return, he earned his rightful place in the hearts of millions.

"Kevin’s impact will not be measured by appearances or results. It will live on in the memories he created with club and country, the dreams he inspired wherever he went, and the generations of supporters around the world who fell in love with football because of him," the club said in its post on X, paying glowing tributes to one of their best players ever.

The club also sent condolences to Keegan's family, mourning the loss of a true giant.

"At this profoundly sad time, we send our love and deepest sympathy to Kevin’s wife Jean, his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him," it said.

Today, we mourn the loss of a true giant of our history, and at the appropriate moment, we will carefully consider how we shape a lasting tribute to Kevin’s remarkable life and legacy. Rest in peace, King Kev," the club said.

It was nearly a month back in June that Keegan sent shockwaves among his fans when he announced the news about stage four cancer -- the most advanced stage of cancer. His family initially disclosed he was battling the disease in January, after he had "further evaluation of ongoing abdominal symptoms" in hospital.

A statement on behalf of the Keegan family said he was "surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments".

"Kevin, a double Ballon d'Or winner, was a much-loved husband, father and grandfather," the family had said.

Liverpool FC also paid fitting tributes to Keegan. "We are deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary Kevin Keegan and mourn his loss. His indomitable spirit and remarkable contribution will be forever etched in our history, and his legacy will live on. Rest in peace, Kevin. 1951-2026," the club said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

Manchester City described Keegan as a transformative manager and also highlighted his role in the club making it back into the top clubs.

"Everyone at Manchester City is devastated to learn our former manager Kevin Keegan has passed away, aged 75. Kevin was a transformative manager who brought optimism and vibrancy to City during his four-year spell in charge.

"The promotion campaign in 2001/02 will never be forgotten, and Kevin then established us once again as a top Premier League side in the years that followed. Our thoughts are with Kevin’s family and friends at this very difficult time," the club said in a post on X.

Born on February 14, 1951, at Armthorpe, Doncaster, Keegan started his youth career at Scunthorpe United in 1967-68 before making his senior debut at the club in 1968. He stayed there till 1972 before moving to Liverpool for six years, representing the club in 230 matches, scoring 68 goals.

After brief spells at Hamburger SC (1977-1980) and Southampton (1980-1982), Keegan moved to Newcastle United in 1982 and stayed there till 1984, earning 78 caps and scoring 48 goals. He ended his playing career at Blacktown City in 1985, playing just two matches. In his lengthy club career, Keegan played 592 matches in which he scored 204 goals.

In a decade-long international career, Keegan made 63 appearances, scoring 21 goals for England.

Later, he had successful managerial stints at Newcastle United (1992-1997 & 2008), Fulham (1997-1999), England (1990-2000), and Manchester City (2001-2006). He managed England's qualification to Euro 2000 via a playoff win over Scotland. He reigned as England manager after a poor performance in Euro 2000.

--IANS

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Tehran, July 20 (IANS) Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said on Monday that its naval forces had delivered ‘heavy blows’ to US assets and facilities in Bahrain and Kuwait through three rounds of missile and drone attacks, in retaliation for US attacks on Iranian provinces.

In a statement on its official news outlet Sepah News, the IRGC said it "destroyed" drone maintenance and repair hangars used by US units at Al-Sakhir Air Base in Bahrain in the first round of the strikes.

In the second round, the US silos housing Task Force 59 vessels at Salman Port in Bahrain were targeted and "destroyed," and the vessels were heavily damaged, it said.

The third round of its strikes set fire to and "destroyed" facilities for stationing, supporting, and equipping US special naval commandos at Camp Arifjan in Kuwait, it added.

Bahrain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the repeated Iranian attacks, saying they targeted "vital civilian infrastructure" and posed a direct threat to civilian lives, Xinhua news agency reported.

The country's Civil Aviation Affairs said the civil air navigation systems of the Bahrain flight information region were targeted by Iranian drones, with air navigation services unaffected.

Earlier Monday, the IRGC said in statements that it had struck US aircraft in Jordan's port city of Aqaba and assets in Kuwait.

US Central Command said in an early Monday social media post that its forces had "completed the ninth consecutive evening of strikes against Iran."

The US has launched waves of strikes on Iran's southern provinces, saying the attacks were aimed at "degrading Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping." Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks on US military bases and facilities in regional countries.

Meanwhile, explosions were heard on Monday evening in Iran's southern provinces of Hormozgan and Fars, the semi-official Mehr news agency reported.

--IANS

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Bhubaneswar, July 20 (IANS) The opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Monday demanded a judicial inquiry into the deaths of devotees during the Rath Yatra in Puri on July 16, holding the BJP-led government in Odisha entirely responsible for this tragic incident.

Addressing a press conference at the party headquarters in Bhubaneswar, State BJD Vice President and former Minister Sanjay Kumar Das Burma and party Media Coordinator and Spokesperson Dr Lenin Mohanty alleged that the state government had failed to manage the world-famous Rath Yatra properly.

Expressing grief over the deaths of devotees, Das Burma said the incident had hurt the sentiments of crores of Lord Jagannath's devotees across the world.

He alleged that the State Government was trying to suppress the facts related to the incident. Referring to the statement of the Health Minister, Das Burma said the Minister had claimed that the devotees did not die in a stampede and that one person died of a heart attack while another died due to suffocation.

He alleged that the Government has not disclosed what exactly happened during the Rath Yatra or the actual number of people who died or were injured.

Das Burma also claimed that four critically injured persons were admitted to Puri Hospital after the incident, of whom three later died. He further alleged that while the Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) had said that more than 350 people were injured, the State Government later stated that only two people had died and remained silent about the alleged third death.

The BJD leader said the BJP Government had held several meetings before the Rath Yatra, claiming to ensure smooth management of the festival, but failed to prevent the tragedy. He alleged that the Government was trying to hide its administrative failure instead of accepting responsibility.

Das Burma further claimed that the post-mortem reports mentioned that the devotees died due to the stampede, contrary to the statements made by the Health Minister.

The BJD demanded a judicial inquiry into the incident and asked the State Government to make the inquiry report public. The party also demanded the resignation of Health Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling and Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan from the State Council of Ministers.

It also demanded that reports of previous Rath Yatra-related inquiries, including those into stampede deaths and the incident in which Lord Balabhadra slipped from the Charamal during the Pahandi procession, be released.

BJD also questioned why the chariots were pulled after sunset, alleging that there is no religious tradition permitting the practice. It asked the Government to explain why the established rituals and traditions were not followed.

"Although the double-engine Government held repeated meetings claiming to ensure smooth management of the Rath Yatra, its complete failure has brought disrepute to Odisha. The overall failure of the double-engine Government has resulted in this tragic incident, leaving devotees of Lord Jagannath across the world shocked and saddened," Das Burma alleged.

--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 20 (IANS) The trailer of the upcoming Hollywood juggernaut ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ was unveiled on Monday. The trailer confirms the staple of the MCU, multiple crossovers including Thor and Captain America, and Black Panther.

The trailer gives a peek into the next chapter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as it marks the return of Robert Downey Jr. to the MCU. The actor will be seen essaying the role of Doctor Doom, alongside Earth's Mightiest Heroes, in an epic battle that promises to redefine the future of the franchise.

The trailer also has a shot of Chris Evans returning to the fore proving his worthiness as he holds the Mjolnir.

The film features an ensemble cast of Hollywood icons including Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Pedro Pascal, Paul Rudd, Anthony Mackie, Florence Pugh, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Wyatt Russell, Channing Tatum, Simu Liu, Ian McKellen, Tom Hiddleston, James Marsden, Patrick Stewart, Joseph Quinn, Sebastian Stan, David Harbour, Letitia Wright, Lewis Pullman, Kelsey Grammer, Kathryn Newton, Danny Ramirez, Winston Duke, Alan Cumming, Hannah John-Kamen, Rebecca Romijn, Mabel Cadena, with Tenoch Huerta Mejia.

The movie serves as the first part of Marvel's Multiverse Saga finale, setting the stage for Avengers: Secret Wars. Its ambitious scale, unexpected casting and multiversal stakes have generated immense fan excitement worldwide.

Produced by Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito and Jonathan Schwartz, ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ is directed by Anthony and Joe Russo of Russo Brothers

The film is set to release on December 18 across theatres in India in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu.

--IANS

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Mumbai, July 20 (IANS) Veteran actress and politician Jaya Bachchan once revealed what made Aishwarya Rai the ideal 'Mrs Bachchan' during her interaction with filmmaker Karan Johar on the popular chat show, "Koffee With Karan".

Talking about which qualities of Aishwarya she admires the most, she said, "She is lovely. I love her".

Jaya Bachchan went on to add that despite being such a huge star, Aishwarya maintains a low profile when with family. She added that Aishwarya is someone who prefers to listen instead of speaking too much.

Jaya Bachchan stated , "She is such a big star herself, but when we are all together, I have never ever seen her push herself, and I like that quality. I like it that she stands behind, she is quiet, she listens."

"Another beautiful thing is she has fitted so well. Not just into the family, but she knows this is family, these are good friends," the veteran actress further explained.

Talking about Aishwarya and Abhishek's love saga, they have worked together in multiple projects over the years, such as "Kuch Naa Kaho", "Dhoom 2", "Sarkar Raj", "Umrao Jaan", "Guru", and "Raavan".

According to the reports, the couple first met back in 1999 for the photo shoot of their first project together, "Dhaai Akshar Prem Ke". As their friendship eventually bloomed into love, Aishwarya and Abhishek finally tied the knot on April 20, 2007, in a lavish traditional ceremony in the presence of family and friends.

On 16 November 2011, they entered the new blissful chapter of their lives as they welcomed their first child, daughter Aaradhya.

On the professional front, Abhishek has been roped in for Shah Rukh Khan's highly-awaited next "King". Helmed by 'Pathaan' maker Siddharth Anand, the project will also see Anil Kapoor, Suhana Khan, and Abhay Verma in key roles, along with others.

--IANS

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Mumbai, July 20 (IANS) Actress Kajal Aggarwal, who is gearing up for the release of her upcoming film ‘The India Story’, recently met IAS officer Tukaram Munde, who has been tightening the screws of food safety in Maharashtra.

On Monday, the actress took to her X, formerly Twitter, and shared a picture of herself with the officer, and her co-actor Shreyas Talpade.

She also penned a long note in which she reminisced the words of wisdom that the officer shared with her.

She wrote, “It was such a pleasure meeting Tukaram Munde sir. I’ve long been an admirer of the work he’s doing and took the opportunity to compliment him on his honesty and sincerity. His response stayed with me. He said, ‘Honesty and sincerity are simply a part of my job and my DNA. The fact that you’re treating them as something extraordinary only shows how rare they’ve become. That’s the sad state of affairs’. That really made me pause and reflect”.

Tukaram Munde has gained a reputation for being the no non-sense officer, and his solid crackdowns on food establishments engaging in malpractices. The officer recently shut down many iconic food outlets in the city.

“It was inspiring to meet someone so deeply committed to doing the right thing, even when it’s difficult. Leaders like him remind us that integrity isn’t a special quality, it should be the standard. It also felt like a meaningful coincidence that our film, ‘The India Story’, echoes the very message Tukaram sir has been championing, raising awareness about food adulteration, excessive pesticide use, and the devastating health consequences they can have. We cannot afford to become silent consumers of practices that ultimately compromise our well-being. Kudos to you, sir. More power to you, and my heartfelt best wishes for all the important work you’re doing to clean up the system. India needs many more public figures like you”, she added.

Earlier, the actress spoke with IANS, and had heaped praise on the IAS officer for his commitment, honesty and service.

She earlier told IANS, “There is pollution, there are stress factors. It is all a mixed bag. So, it is definitely not the easiest of environments for us to navigate. But, there are people like Tukaram Munde, the newly elected FDA Commissioner. He governs the entire food channels, and he has carried out more than 700 raids in 22 days of his posting”.

Meanwhile, ‘The India Story’ is produced by Swati Vinayak Saindane, Anita Jadhav, Vinayak Saindane, Kalpesh Shah, Devyani Khorate, and Prem Joshi. The film is set to release in cinemas on July 24, 2026.

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Mumbai, July 20 (IANS) Actress-director Nandita Das, and veteran actress Shabana Azmi are expressing solidarity with the protestors at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.

On Monday, Nandita Das took to her Instagram, and penned a note, and shared that she stands with people of the nation who believe in democracy.

She wrote, “Standing in solidarity with everyone who believes that democracy is strengthened when people can gather, speak, listen and be heard. Constructive dissent is what keeps a democracy alive. In spirit with all those marching peacefully today in Delhi for the India we believe in”.

Shabana Azmi was more extensive about her updates from on-ground at the protest site. She shared a picture in which she can be seen on a truck with actor Prakash Raj in the background.

She wrote in the caption, “In the truck. The govt has asked to have a dialogue finally. It is a peaceful@protest Jantar Mantar for educational reforms”.

She also uploaded a video in which she can be seen amidst the protestor, as she expressed her solidarity. She wrote in the caption, “Salute to all the colleagues who have gathered in so much abuse here”.

The protests intensified after Sonam Wangchuk was forcibly removed by Delhi Police from the protest site at Jantar Mantar in the early hours of July 18 after completing 21 days of an indefinite hunger strike. Authorities shifted him to a hospital, citing his deteriorating health, medical advice and compliance with a Delhi High Court order.

Sonam Wangchuk has been on a hunger strike demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in competitive exams. The raging issue of paper leaks across academia reached a fever pitch with the NEET paper leak.

It involved allegations of question paper leaks, irregularities, and unfair advantages in India’s medical entrance exam conducted by the National Testing Agency. The controversy intensified after unusually high numbers of top scorers and perfect marks raised concerns. Students protested, demanding transparency, a re-test, and accountability. The government defended the exam process while investigations by agencies examined the extent of malpractice, affecting trust in the examination system.

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