Kolkata, Aug 15 (IANS) The Special Task Force (STF) of West Bengal Police arrested three more suspected Pakistani spies or ISI agents from Sahebganj in Cooch Behar district of north Bengal, the police said on Saturday.

The police said they were arrested late on Friday night from Sahebganj area of Cooch Behar.

The names of the arrested are Rashidul Haque, Nur Nasiruddin Ali and Shafiqul Islam. The investigators are trying to get more information by interrogating the arrested men.

Preliminary investigation has revealed that the arrested people were working as spies.

According to STF sources, the arrested people would first pick up Indian mobile SIM cards from here and send them to Bangladesh. It is alleged that those SIM cards would then go to Pakistan from that country.

The arrested people are also allegedly involved in the counterfeit currency business. The police have launched a thorough investigation and are trying to find out whether they were associated with other Pakistani spies who were arrested earlier this month.

The latest arrests came days after the STF arrested two persons, including a Pakistani national, from separate locations in the state for their alleged links and activities.

Rana Rauf alias Wahab Alam, a resident of Faisalabad in Pakistan, was arrested on August 12 from Habra in North 24 Parganas district near the India-Bangladesh border following specific Intelligence inputs.

Following the arrest, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) started collecting information about Pakistani national Wahab Alam. The move came after the preliminary investigation by the STF revealed Alam’s alleged links with Pakistan’s spy agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The NIA has contacted the Bengal STF to obtain details of the investigation and the information gathered so far.

Meanwhile, the STF secured the names of five Nepal-based associates of Wahab Alam by cracking the netbook data that the investigating officers recovered from Alam’s possession.

Subsequently, during the marathon interrogation by the STF sleuths, Alam broke down and confessed the details of how he used these five Nepal-based operators to maintain his links with his ISI handlers in Pakistan, a source aware of the development said.

Now with the latest arrest, the investigators are trying to find out whether they had any contact with Wahab Alam or his Nepal-based operators.

Last month, the Bengal Police arrested Jaish‑e‑Mohammed (JeM) associate Hamim Mondal from his rented accommodation in Burdwan town of East Burdwan district.

--IANS

sch/rad

Kolkata, Aug 15 (IANS) Although the low-pressure area is moving towards Jharkhand, several districts of south Bengal are likely to receive rain for another two days as the southwest monsoon axis remains active, the Meteorological Department said on Saturday.

A yellow alert for heavy rain has been issued in four districts of south Bengal for Saturday. Light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms is also likely at one or two places.

The yellow warning for rain and thunderstorms will remain in force till Sunday, said Habibur Rahman Biswas, Eastern Regional Director of the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Kolkata.

The intensity and spread of rainfall are expected to decline from Monday onwards. Scattered light rain may continue to occur at one or two places on Monday and Tuesday, but the weather office has not issued any warning for these two days.

The Meteorological Department has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea till Saturday afternoon, as the north Bay of Bengal is likely to remain rough under the influence of the low-pressure system.

Gusty winds reaching 55 to 65 kmph are also expected over the sea during this time. Fishermen have, therefore, been advised to avoid the coastal waters of West Bengal and Odisha.

“Light to moderate rain is forecast in Kolkata today and tomorrow. The chances of rain will increase on Sunday. Gusty winds of 30 to 40 kmph may accompany the rainfall. The chances of rain will decrease from Monday,” the Met Office official said here.

Kolkata recorded a maximum temperature of 31.6 degrees Celsius on Friday, which was 0.3 degrees below normal. The minimum temperature was 26.8 degrees Celsius, 0.3 degrees above normal.

Relative humidity ranged between 76 and 97 per cent. The city received little rain in the past 24 hours. On Saturday, the maximum temperature is expected to be around 32 degrees Celsius, while the minimum may remain near 27 degrees Celsius.

--IANS

sch/snj/skp

Hyderabad, Aug 15 (IANS) Wishing all Indians around the world a happy Independence Day, Telugu star Vijay Deverakonda on Saturday urged people to remember how hard our forefathers had to fight for our freedom and to "never forget the cost."

Taking to his social media timelines to greet people on the happy occasion of the country's Independence Day, Vijay Deverakonda, who plays an inspiring character in his upcoming period film 'Ranabaali', wrote, "A day of immense celebration. A day to remember how hard our forefathers fought for it, and how far we have come. #NeverForget the cost. And bring glory to your families and the country. Happy Independence Day my brothers, my people."

The actor also shared a new poster from director Rahul Sankrityan's upcoming film, 'Ranabaali', in which he plays a brave patriot.

For the unaware, 'Ranabaaali' will feature Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna in the lead. It has Hollywood actor Arnold Vosloo, who is best known for having played character Imhotep in the blockbuster film 'The Mummy', playing the antagonist.

The unit of the film, which has triggered huge interest among fans and film buffs, had wrapped up a crucial schedule of the film at Rayalaseema in April this year.

Vijay Deverakonda essays the role of Ranabaali, while Rashmika Mandanna plays his wife Jayamma in the film. Arnold Vosloo, best known for his work in 'The Mummy', plays the antagonist Sir Theodore Hector.

'Ranabaali' is being produced on a grand scale by Naveen Yerneni and Y. Ravi Shankar, with T-Series presenting the film. The movie is set against a British-era backdrop and is being made as a period action drama. Set in the 19th century, the film is based on real historical events that took place between 1854 and 1878, and is being mounted as a massive pan-India project.

Sources claim 'Ranabaali' is inspired by real incidents from the 1850s that never found space in mainstream history books. They say it will be based on real incidents in the time period of 1850-1900 and that the film will look to showcase incidents that the British misrepresented in history.

Sources claim that Ranabaali will not be a biopic, and not a textbook retelling but will be a cinematic reconstruction of an era built from multiple real accounts, oral histories, and suppressed records.

After 'Geetha Govindam' and 'Dear Comrade', 'Ranabaali' will be the third film in which Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda will be seen appearing together as a pair.

--IANS

mkr/

New Delhi, Aug 15 (IANS) India’s economy remains on a resilient growth path with a real GDP growth of 8 per cent expected in the first quarter of fiscal 2027, a report said on Saturday.

Celebrating India’s 80th Independence Day, the report from SBI Research noted strong credit and deposit momentum in the country alongside large foreign‑currency inflows.

In addition, credit demand grew by 19.3 per cent for the fortnight ended July 31, while deposit growth picked up speed and grew 15.4 per cent, supported by substantial FCNR(B) inflows.

Nearly $52.3 billion had been mobilised under the FCNR(B) scheme till August 13, the report added, and despite the scheme’s one‑month truncation, the research firm forecasted up to $70 billion of FCNR(B) mobilisation by the end of the window.

The report also said that total mobilisation could reach $80–85 billion, including OFCBs (overseas foreign currency borrowings) and ECBs (external commercial borrowings).

However, RBI has already recouped around $31 billion of foreign currency assets as of August 7, equivalent to nearly 55 per cent of the amount mobilised.

"The surge in bank deposits and foreign-currency funding should lower the counterfactual level of G-Sec yields through deposit-to-yield transmission gaining credence," it said.

The clearest beneficiary should be the 3–7-year segment due to maturity matching, carry and lower supply pressure, followed by the 7–10-year segment.

The report also noted a reversal in foreign institutional investor flows from earlier outflows to inflows after policy measures announced by the RBI and the government.

“India is and will continue to be one of the fastest-growing economies in the world,” the firm said.

The corporate performance of 2257 listed non-BFSI companies remained resilient in Q1 FY27, with net sales, EBITDA and PAT increasing by 24 per cent, 9 per cent, and 4 per cent, respectively, over Q1 FY26

—IANS

aar/ag

New Delhi, Aug 15 (IANS) In a powerful appeal from the ramparts of the Red Fort on Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon all political parties to unite and ensure the earliest possible implementation of the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, securing 33 per cent representation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies.

Describing the legislation as a decisive step to strengthen women’s power, the Prime Minister urged parties to rise above political differences and champion the cause of mothers and sisters so they can contribute fully to India’s development.

“Let our mothers and sisters receive 33 per cent representation as soon as possible,” he said, emphasising that the nation must not only take credit for advancing women but also genuinely empower them as equal partners in building a developed India.

Highlighting the significance of the legislation, the Prime Minister recalled that the government had introduced the “Nari Shakti Vandan Act” in Parliament specifically to empower women.

He urged all political parties to rise above differences and champion the cause of women’s empowerment with sincerity and urgency.

PM Modi stressed that implementing women’s reservations should not merely be a matter of political credit but a genuine effort to empower women as equal partners in nation-building.

He called upon political parties to work together so that the constitutional promise of one-third representation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies becomes a reality at the earliest.

Describing women as a vital force in India’s progress, PM Modi underlined that greater participation of mothers and sisters in decision-making would enrich democracy and accelerate development.

He expressed confidence that once the reservation is implemented, women would bring fresh energy, perspective and leadership to public life, contributing significantly to the vision of a developed India by 2047.

The appeal came against the backdrop of the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, which was passed in 2023 to reserve 33 per cent of seats for women in Parliament and state assemblies. While the law has been enacted, its actual implementation is linked to the next delimitation exercise.

By making a direct call from the Red Fort, the Prime Minister sought to generate political consensus and accelerate the process.

The Prime Minister, by urging collective action from all political parties, positioned women’s reservation not as a partisan issue but as a national priority essential for inclusive growth and stronger democratic institutions.

--IANS

sktr/skp

Bengaluru, Aug 15 (IANS) Karnataka Chief Minister, D.K. Shivakumar, on Saturday called upon Kannadigas to join hands with his government in driving Karnataka’s development, setting an ambitious target of transforming the state into a $3 trillion economy by 2047.

Addressing the 80th Independence Day celebrations at Manekshaw Parade Ground after hoisting the National Flag, Chief Minister Shivakumar said Karnataka’s progress was closely linked to India’s growth and announced a series of initiatives in Artificial Intelligence, agriculture, employment, infrastructure, water security and social welfare.

“The chariot of the state’s development cannot be pulled by just two hands. The hands of the entire Kannada community must join me. Come, let us pull the chariot of development together,” CM Shivakumar said.

CM Shivakumar said Karnataka’s per capita income had reached Rs 4.33 lakh and the state ranked second in GST and income-tax collections and the government aimed to take Karnataka’s economy to $3 trillion, or around Rs 320 lakh crore, by 2047 through investments in education, healthcare, agriculture, industry and infrastructure.

CM Shivakumar announced that Artificial Intelligence would be introduced in schools from Class 6, along with the ‘AI Akshara Abhiyana’ and ‘Coding Gurukula’ initiatives. A government-owned AI university would be established in Bengaluru, along with AI hubs across the state.

Under the ‘Chief Minister Employment Sankalpa’ scheme, the Shivakumar government has begun the process of filling 72,000 key vacancies in the government sector. Notifications for all vacancies will be issued within six months, CM Shivakumar said.

An ‘Udyoga Nidhi’ scheme will provide employers in backward districts an incentive of Rs 2,500 per month for every new job created, with a target of generating one lakh new jobs over the next two years.

The government will also launch the ‘Yuva Udyoga Sethu’ initiative for job seekers.

CM Shivakumar announced the ‘Chief Minister Raitha Chaitanya’ scheme to combine farmers’ traditional knowledge with modern technology where crop surveys will be carried out using drones and satellite imagery to provide real-time information.

Under the ‘Raitha Mitra’ programme, farmers owning three acres or less will receive a 50 per cent subsidy on rental charges for agricultural machinery.

He said 12.35 lakh farmers had received Rs 1,300 crore in compensation under the crop insurance scheme, while 25 lakh farmers had enrolled for crop insurance. Micro-irrigation had been expanded to two lakh hectares and 184 high-tech harvester hubs established.

CM Shivakumar said Karnataka had approved 945 investment proposals worth more than Rs 134 lakh crore over the past three years and attracted Rs 112 lakh crore in foreign direct investment during the last year.

An Advanced Manufacturing Cluster would be established in Doddaballapur, with investment commitments of Rs 20,000 crore and an expected one lakh jobs. Under ‘Beyond Bengaluru’, global technology centres would be established in Kalaburagi, Belagavi, Hubballi-Dharwad, Mangaluru and Mysuru, CM Shivakumar said.

CM Shivakumar announced a 117-km Bengaluru Business Corridor ring road project with an estimated cost of Rs 26,000 crore. Ring roads and mobility grids would also be developed in towns and cities across the state.

For Bengaluru, the government is planning five new police commissionerates, a special anti-rowdy squad and five large tree parks, and seven major lakes, including Hesaraghatta, Bettadakote, Hoskote, Yele Mallappa Shetty, Bannerghatta, Bagalur and Byramangala lakes, will be developed to improve groundwater recharge and water security, CM Shivakumar said.

Calling water security the government’s top priority, CM Shivakumar said 112 major water resource projects worth Rs 16,000 crore had been approved this year. The first phase of the Yettinahole drinking water project is nearing completion and water is expected to reach Tumakuru district by November.

He also announced the establishment of a Karnataka State Motor Vehicle Insurance Corporation to provide simpler insurance services to vehicle owners.

For rural students, the ‘Sahaya Hasta’ scheme will provide 7.5 per cent reservation within the existing 15 per cent rural quota for professional courses to students who studied from Classes 1 to 10 in rural government schools, CM Shivakumar said.

CM Shivakumar said social justice remained a key commitment of his government, with Rs 44,631 crore allocated for the welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes and around Rs 4,000 crore for the Backward Classes Welfare Department in 2026-27.

He also highlighted the five guarantee schemes, saying they had strengthened social and economic security for families across the state.

Recalling the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Sarojini Naidu, Bhagat Singh and Subhas Chandra Bose, CM Shivakumar urged people to uphold the values of the freedom struggle.

“Victory to humanism,” he said, invoking the ideals of poet Kuvempu and the teachings of Basavanna on equality, dignity of labour and social welfare.

--IANS

mka/rad

New Delhi, Aug 15 (IANS) The Narcotic Control Bureau (NCB) tracked down and extradited four high-profile international drug kingpins under its 'Operation Global Hunt', executing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's directive to build a drug-free India, senior officials said.

The Centre’s diplomatic outreach has persuaded international partners regarding the security risks of harbouring transnational syndicate heads.

The extradited kingpins include Virender Singh Basoya, suspected mastermind of a Rs 13,000-crore international drug cartel brought back from the UAE, and Salim Dola, a key operative linked to Dawood Ibrahim who was arrested in Malaysia and deported via Turkiye. The Indian agencies also secured the extradition of Prabhdeep Singh from Azerbaijan and cross-border logistics supplier Ritik Bajaj from the UAE.

The Modi government adopted a tougher approach towards narcotics networks, with enforcement agencies increasingly focusing on the masterminds who operate drug cartels from abroad.

Since the government announced its objective of making India drug-free, the NCB, which is spearheading the campaign, has intensified its crackdown on local suppliers, middlemen, distributors and dealers. However, officials say dismantling the narcotics trade requires agencies to go beyond the domestic network and identify the kingpins controlling the operations from foreign countries.

According to officials, the NCB’s latest strategy has begun to yield results, with a growing number of suspected drug lords based overseas being traced and extradited to India. Recent examples include Salim Dola, Virender Singh Basoya, Prabhdeep Singh and Ritik Bajaj. Their extraditions were facilitated under Operation Global Hunt launched by the NCB.

Officials said a key factor behind these successes has been the agency’s “top-to-bottom” and “bottom-to-top” approach. “The strategy enables investigators to simultaneously target cartel leaders abroad and trace the domestic networks operating under them,” the officials said.

Under the top-to-bottom approach, the NCB seeks to identify the masterminds controlling drug operations from foreign locations. Investigators use intelligence inputs, international cooperation and Interpol channels to locate these individuals and build cases against them.

“The bottom-to-top approach starts at the operational level within India. Local intelligence is used to identify suppliers, middlemen, dealers and logistics operators. Their arrests and subsequent investigations provide investigators with access to digital footprints, financial transactions and communication trails. These leads can then be followed upwards to identify mid-level handlers, distributors, entry-point managers and, eventually, the cartel bosses,” the officials said.

This process has proved useful in connecting seemingly independent arrests and seizures to larger international narcotics networks, they added. “Tracing the chain upwards is one part of the challenge. The real success is when these persons are extradited to India,” an official said.

Basoya, who is suspected of being a mastermind behind a Rs 13,000-crore international drug cartel, was extradited from the UAE. Prabhdeep Singh was extradited from Azerbaijan, while Bajaj, described as a cross-border logistics supplier, was brought back from the UAE.

Dola, considered a major player in the international narcotics network and a close aide of fugitive underworld figure Dawood Ibrahim, was arrested in Malaysia and extradited to India through Turkiye.

Officials said cooperation from foreign governments has also improved as India has intensified its campaign against narcotics networks. They attributed this to sustained diplomatic engagement, stronger intelligence sharing and the preparation of detailed cases against suspected cartel operators.

The NCB has also worked to ensure that extradition requests are backed by substantial evidence, including financial records, digital evidence and details of the accused persons’ alleged roles in organised drug trafficking.

“This helps in easing the extradition process. Further, India has also managed to convince the international community about the ill-effects of holding such people in their respective countries,” an official said.

According to officials, the success of recent investigations lies in treating the narcotics trade as a connected chain. Local dealers, logistics suppliers, middlemen and international kingpins cannot be investigated in isolation. The twin top-to-bottom and bottom-to-top strategy allows the NCB to follow the network in both directions, with the larger objective of dismantling the cartel itself.

--IANS

vn/snj/skp

Mumbai, August 15 (IANS) As the nation steps into the 79th year of Independence with pride, unity, and patriotic fervour, many Bollywood stalwarts took to their respective social media accounts to wish on the occasion.

Varun Dhawan sharing a picture of him with the flag, wrote in Hindi which further translated into English reads as, “80 years of independence After breaking the chains of slavery,Today we breathe freedom,Remembering those heroes,I say with pride that every human being of this country is. My India is great!”

Ravi Kishan shared a picture from the Independence Day celebration at the Red Fort.

He wrote, “Best wishes to all of you on the auspicious occasion of Independence Day!

On this glorious day of Independence Day, we salute the brave sons who sacrificed their lives and gave us freedom. Let's pledge to fulfill the dream of 'Developed India' of Hon'ble Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi ji and unite and take the country and state to new heights. #IndependenceDay #independenceday2026

Ram Charan wrote, “Happy Independence Day to every Indian. Proud to be a part of this incredible nation. Jai Hind.”

Amitabh Bachchan took to his social media account and wrote, “T 5825 - The day of freedom; an auspicious day of congratulations! Vande Mataram !!!”

Maniesh Paul wrote, “Whenever the hard times came our way,We stood together, come what may... From the days we held back in fear,We found our courage, year by year...The past has passed, the time has flown,A brighter future is ours to own...We’re still learning, we’ll grow stronger.Building a better India together...With hope in our hearts and dreams in our eyes,We’ll rise together reaching new heights...For every dream and every new dawn,We’ll keep moving forward, together as one...Happy Independence Day!”

Karisma Kapoor shared, “Independence Day always makes me reflect on how beautifully diverse our country is. What makes me especially proud is witnessing the incredible talent India has to offer. As a part of India’s Best Dancer Season 5, I get to see young dancers from different parts of the country bring their unique stories, cultures, and emotions to the stage. It’s truly inspiring to see this generation express themselves so fearlessly. This Independence Day, I wish everyone strength and power, and hope we continue to grow together with pride, unity, and love for our country”

Jaaved Jaaferi who is seen as a co-judge with the actress on the dance reality show India's Best Dancer, added, “Independence Day is not just about celebrating our freedom, but also remembering the responsibility that comes with it. India has always been a land of diverse cultures, languages, traditions and artistic expressions, and dance is one of the most beautiful ways of bringing all these colours together. On India’s Best Dancer Season 5, we are seeing that spirit come alive through our contestants. Their passion and individuality make me very hopeful about the future of Indian art and culture. Wishing everyone a very Happy Independence Day.”

Further, Terence Lewis highlighted, “For me, Independence Day is a celebration of the freedom to dream, to express yourself and to become who you truly want to be. As a dancer and choreographer, I feel fortunate to be part of a country where our art forms are so diverse and deeply rooted in our culture. On India’s Best Dancer Season 5, I see young dancers pushing their boundaries and expressing themselves with so much confidence. Their journeys remind me that when you have the freedom to dream and the courage to work hard, there is no limit to what you can achieve. Wishing everyone a very Happy Independence Day.”

Geeta Kapur also emphasised, “Independence Day always fills me with a sense of pride and gratitude. India is a country where every state, every culture and every tradition has its own beautiful identity, and yet we all come together as one. I feel that dance reflects this beautifully. On India’s Best Dancer Season 5, we are privileged to see contestants from different backgrounds bring their own stories and flavours to the stage. It is wonderful to see the next generation celebrating our culture while creating something of their own. Wishing everyone a very Happy Independence Day. Jai Hind!”

–IANS

rd/

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

sj/rad

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

sps/svn

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

na/vd

Hyderabad, Aug 15 (IANS) Director Sampath Nandi, who only recently turned producer, has now announced the next film his production house is to produce and disclosed that the film had been titled 'Shanarthi'.

The film is to be directed by Raj Ganesh Uppunooti and will feature actors Akhil Raj and Naga Durga in the lead.

Produced by popular director Sampath Nandi’s successful production house Sampath Nandi Teamworks, the film, will mark the directorial debut of Raj Ganesh Uppunooti, a protégé of Sampath Nandi.

Sampath Nandi Teamworks is to produce this project in association with producer KV Sridhar Reddy of Sri Dhanalakshmi Productions. 'Shanarthi' is to be presented by the production house Aditya Movies.

Akhil Raj, who impressed audiences with the Telugu hit film 'Raju Weds Rambai', and talented actress Naga Durga will play the lead in this film. Known for her lively presence in popular Telangana folk songs, Naga Durga makes her acting debut with this film and has already signed a few interesting projects.

The title 'Shanarthi' comes from the Telangana region and has traditionally been used as a form of greeting.

The makers have now released a title poster that features two hands holding each other, with one covered in turmeric yellow and the other painted in striking red. The contrasting colours create a powerful visual impact while beautifully symbolising connection, tradition and togetherness.

The traditional detailing further enhances the poster’s cultural essence. Both hands have sacred threads tied around their wrists, while the red hand is adorned with a stack of traditional red bangles.

The tagline, “A Tale of Culture,” placed beneath the title, clearly hints at the film’s thematic focus. The title poster makes a striking first impression, blending cultural symbolism with an intriguing visual design.

The film has officially gone on floors at the Rama Naidu Studios in Hyderabad in the presence of prominent film personalities and the core team. Sources close to the unit of the film say that the makers are expected to commence shooting soon.

Sampath Nandi, known for his strength as a writer, storyteller and showrunner, has played a key role in creating successful stories and franchises, including the Odela franchise. His association with Shanarthi adds considerable interest and anticipation to the project.

Music for this film is to be scored by the talented composer Suresh Bobbili, whose distinctive musical style has earned appreciation. His compositions are expected to complement the film’s rural setting while enhancing its emotional depth and regional flavour.

--

IANS

mkr/

Mumbai, August 15 (IANS) Bollywood star Jackie Shroff extended warm birthday wishes to veteran actress Rakhee Gulzar as the celebrated star turned 79 on August 15.

Jackie Shroff took to his social media account to share a picture of Rakhee, dressed in a traditional pink saree, and wished the veteran actress on her special day.

The actor captioned it with a simple “Happy Birthday” message and used the iconic song, Aaj Madhosh Hua Jaye Re song as the background score.

Born on August 15, 1947, in Ranaghat, West Bengal, Rakhee, began her acting journey with the Bengali film Badhu Bharan in 1967 before making her Hindi film debut with Jeevan Mrityu in 1970.

Coincidentally, the actress was born on the same day, India attained freedom from the British rule, making her as old as free India.

Rakhee went on to emerge as one of Hindi cinema's most acclaimed leading ladies of the 1970s and 1980s. Her filmography includes Sharmeelee, Daag: A Poem of Love, Kabhi Kabhie, Tapasya, Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, Kaala Patthar, Jurmana, Barsaat Ki Ek Raat, Shakti and Ram Lakhan.

Her performances in films such as Ram Lakhan, Baazigar, Karan Arjun and Border further established her versatility. Her performance in Rituparno Ghosh's Shubho Mahurat earned her the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress. She was also honoured with the Padma Shri in 2003.

Rakhee and Jackie Shroff shared the screen in the Subhash Ghai-directed Ram Lakhan (1989), which also starred Anil Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit. Rakhee later appeared in Ghai's Khal Nayak in 1993, alongside Sanjay Dutt, Jackie Shroff and Madhuri Dixit.

On the personal front, Rakhee is married to legendary lyricist and poet Gulzar and is the mother of director Meghna Gulzar.

–IANS

rd/

Mumbai, August 15 (IANS) Global star Priyanka Chopra Jonas marked India's 79th Independence Day with an emotional yet crisp message on her social media.

Sharing a picture of the Indian tricolour against a mountainous landscape, the actress highlighted that she is “proud of where we’ve come from” and “hopeful about where we’re headed.”

Priyanka shared the picture on her social media account, featuring the Indian flag fluttering against a backdrop of mountains and a clear blue sky. Alongside the picture, she wrote, “Proud of where we’ve come from. Hopeful about where we’re headed.” She also added the Indian flag emoji and the hashtag “#HappyIndependenceDay.”

For the uninitiated, Priyanka seems to have a deeper connection with India beyond being a citizen of the country, having grown up in a military family.

Priyanka was born to Dr Ashok Chopra and Dr Madhu Chopra, both physicians who served in the Indian Army.

Her father's service in the Army Medical Corps meant that the family moved frequently across the country. Priyanka grew up in places including Delhi, Chandigarh, Ambala, Ladakh, Lucknow, Bareilly and Pune.

Her father, Lt Col Ashok Chopra, was commissioned into the Army Medical Corps and served as a surgeon, while her mother also served as an Army physician before later pursuing her medical practice and business ventures.

Talking about Priyanka, her own journey has taken her far beyond the boundaries of India.

She too represented india in the prestigious international beauty pageant and was crowned Miss World in 2000.

Post a successful stint in Bollywood, she eventually made a significant transition to the international entertainment industry. Despite moving base, Priyanka has consistently spoken about remaining connected to her Indian identity, culture and traditions.

Recently, Priyanka had given a glimpse of raising her little daughter Malti Marie by introducing her to Indian traditions, festivals, spirituality, language and culture. Priyanka has also spoken about wanting Malti to understand and embrace her Indian heritage while growing up in the US.

The actress was also recently seen visiting Mumbai's Siddhivinayak Temple with Malti during a brief visit to India.

A few days, ago she was seen reciting and teaching little Malti various shlokas.

Professionally, Priyanka will be seen next in filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli's upcoming epic Varanasi, co-starring Mahesh Babu.

–IANS

rd/

Mumbai, Aug 15 (IANS) Rekha and Pankaj Tripathi recently shared a delightful moment in Melbourne, as the veteran star turned teacher and gave the acclaimed actor some English lessons.

In a video shared by The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne on their Instagram page, Rekha was seen telling Pankaj to repeat everything she says in English.

Rekha said: “Abhi main jo bolungi na Pankaj ji woh aap Angrezi main boliye (Now, whatever I say, you will say in English).”

She then gave the line: “To all the lovely people of Melbourne To all the lovely people of Melbourne”

Pankaj repeated the number in Hindi.

Rekha said: “No, in English. Come here and say, To all the beautiful people of Melbourne”

Pankaj quipped: “Ma'am, main Hindi medium ka chatra hun galat bol dunga (Ma'am, I am a Hindi medium student. I will say it wrong)

Rekha didn’t let go, and the two then said: “To all the lovely people of Melbourne. There is no business Like so business. So, welcome to our world and thank you so much for welcoming us to your world. Thank you so much. See you soon. Love you. Jai Hind.”

Rekha is in IFFM as her 1981 film “Umrao Jaan” will be screened at the event.

“Umrao Jaan” is a period musical drama film directed by Muzaffar Ali and starring Rekha as the title character. Based on Mirza Hadi Ruswa's 1899 Urdu novel Umrao Jaan Ada, the film tells the story of a Lucknow tawaif and poet, and her rise to fame.

The film has been feted with several honour. At 29th National Film Awards, it won 4 awards, including Best Actress.

The festival will also honour Rekha with the prestigious Excellence in Cinema Award, celebrating her unparalleled body of work, definitive performances, and extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema.

As part of the festival's cherished Independence Day tradition, Rekha will hoist the Indian National Flag in Melbourne on 15th August, commemorating India's 79th Independence Day alongside members of the Indian diaspora, Australian dignitaries, filmmakers, artists, and cinema lovers.

The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne will take conclude on 23 August.

--IANS

dc/