New Chandigarh, April 20 (IANS) Blazing half-centuries from opener Priyansh Arya (93 off 37 balls) and Australian southpaw Cooper Connolly (87 off 46 balls), followed by a clinical bowling performance, powered Punjab Kings to a clinical 54-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants in their IPL 2026 clash on Sunday.

At a packed Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, PBKS defended a season-high total of 254/7 by restricting LSG to 200/5. With this win, the in-form PBKS extended their unbeaten run to remain at the top of the points table, while LSG slumped to their third straight loss and be at number eight.

Arya and Connolly produced a breathtaking display of modern-day power-hitting while sharing a 182-run second-wicket partnership and shatter LSG’s bowling rhythm to post the highest score of this season. With the aim to send every ball past the boundary ropes, Arya hit four boundaries and nine sixes at will, while Connolly matched him step by step by smashing eight fours and seven sixes.

Though they lost wickets at the back end, the Arya-Connolly efforts meant PBKS crossed 250-mark. For LSG, Prince Yadav was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2-25, while the rest of the bowling attack conceded 226 runs in 16 overs.

Opting to bowl first, veteran Mohammed Shami provided the perfect start by dismissing Prabhsimran Singh for a duck through a wobble seam delivery. But the joy was short-lived as Arya welcomed Mohsin Khan with a massive six over mid-wicket to signal his intent.

While Connolly was initially scratchy, crawling to 19 off 22 balls, Arya kept the momentum high with relentless boundary-hitting to reach his fifty in just 19 deliveries. Connolly eventually found his range to hit a 35-ball fifty.

The duo saved their most brutal assault for Aiden Markram, milking the part-time off-spinner for 32 runs in the 13th over, including five sixes. The breakthrough finally came when Prince induced a top edge from Connolly and end his stay at 87.

Arya looked set for reaching a well-deserved century, but fell seven runs short of it after being caught at long-off by Mitchell Marsh off Manimaran Siddharth. A brief middle-order wobble saw Shreyas Iyer and Nehal Wadhera depart in quick succession as LSG began to claw back.

But the momentum stayed with the hosts as Marcus Stoinis (29 off 16 balls) and Shashank Singh (17 off 6 balls) unleashed a late barrage. Shashank took 20 runs off Shami’s final over to push the total past the 250-run mark, before Stoinis was eventually run out on the final ball of the innings.

LSG’s experiment of getting Ayush Badoni to open with Mitchell Marsh – their third opening pair of the season - began well as they hit 10 boundaries in their opening stand going past fifty. But the 61-run stand wasn’t ever enough to set the tone for chasing a tall score - Vyshak broke the stand on the final ball of the powerplay by deceiving Badoni with a slower delivery that was comfortably caught by mid-wicket.

Marsh and Pant then tried to inject momentum – with the LSG skipper smoking Jansen for back-to-back sixes. But the introduction of Chahal tightened the screws – with 20 runs coming off overs 9-11, he broke the threatening second-wicket partnership when Marsh dragged a flighted delivery straight to long-on.

Pant continued his solo charge by smashing Chahal for consecutive sixes in the 12th over, but fell for a quick-fire 43 when his attempt to slice a wide yorker from Arshdeep led to him being caught behind, a decision confirmed by UltraEdge.

The chase effectively ended there as Nicholas Pooran’s poor run continued when he fell for nine - mistiming a knuckleball from Jansen to long-on. Markram (42) and Mukul Choudhary (21 not out) entertained with a flurry of boundaries and aided by three dropped catches from PBKS fielders in the final three overs, but the result was a foregone conclusion in the hosts favour.

Brief Scores: Punjab Kings 254/7 in 20 overs (Priyansh Arya 93, Cooper Connolly 87; Prince Yadav 2-25, M Siddharth 2-35) beat Lucknow Super Giants 200/5 in 20 overs (Rishabh Pant 43, Aiden Markram 42; Marco Jansen 2-37, Vijaykumar Vyshak 1-30) by 54 runs.

--IANS

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New York, April 20 (IANS) There was confusion over US Vice President J.D. Vance travelling to Pakistan to lead the US in talks with Iran, after President Donald Trump ruled it out on Sunday citing security concerns, while the White House said he would attend.

Trump told two television programmes that Vance would not be going to Islamabad for the second round of direct negotiations that he said would take place next week.

But both CNN and The New York Times reported soon afterwards that, according to White House officials, Vance would indeed be at the talks, along with Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and Special Representative Steve Witkoff.

An ABC News interviewer said that Trump told him “that Vice President Vance will not be leading the US delegation to Islamabad”.

The interviewer, Jonathan Karl, reported: “He said it's because of security -- the Secret Service did not feel comfortable having the vice president go to Pakistan on 24 hours' notice. He added: ‘JD is great’.”

Trump also told MSNBC’s Jacqueline Alemany that Vance would not be going because 24 hours was too short to make security arrangements.

Pakistan is a nation wracked by terrorism, caused in part by its policy of exporting terrorism that has boomeranged.

Iran has not confirmed that it is participating in a new round of direct talks in Islamabad.

Trump said that his representatives would be in Islamabad on Monday.

He told Fox News that his son-in-law Jared Kushner and Special Representative Steve Witkoff would be leading the US side in the talks with Iran.

Although the Strait of Hormuz remained closed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Trump was going ahead with the talks, while also issuing fresh threats against Iran if it did not make a deal.

“We’re offering a very fair and reasonable DEAL, and I hope they take it because, if they don’t, the United States is going to knock out every single power plant, and every single bridge, in Iran,” he said on Truth Social.

“NO MORE MR. NICE GUY,” he added.

There appeared to be a power struggle between the diplomatic and military establishments in Iran.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said on Friday that the “Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open” for commercial shipping, but the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) countermanded it on Saturday.

Trump confirmed Araghchi’s statement with a “Thank you” post.

The IRGC said that the Strait was closed because the US was blockading its ports, and fired on two Indian ships on Saturday.

Trump did not immediately declare the ceasefire dead or take retaliatory action because he was invested in getting the negotiations to succeed as he faces increased pressure at home because of the impact of the war on the economy.

About the IRGC Navy's hostile action in the Strait, Trump said, “That wasn’t nice, was it?”

But he added, “My representatives are going to Islamabad, Pakistan -- they will be there tomorrow evening, for negotiations. Iran recently announced that they were closing the Strait, which is strange, because our BLOCKADE has already closed it.”

Trump has claimed that Iran had agreed to most of the US demands, including forswearing nuclear ambitions forever.

Again, there was no confirmation of this from Iran, which continued its bellicose rhetoric.

--IANS

int/al/pgh

New Chandigarh, April 19 (IANS) In-form Punjab Kings extended their unbeaten streak in IPL 2026 with a clinical 54-run demolition of Lucknow Super Giants on Sunday. Defending a season-high total of 254/7, Marco Jansen finished with 2-37, while Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Vijaykumar Vyshak claimed one wicket apiece to ensure PBKS remained at the top of the points table.

While opener Priyansh Arya (93 off 37 balls) and Australian southpaw Cooper Connolly (87 off 46 balls) set up the massive target with their blazing fifties, PBKS bowlers delivered a disciplined performance to restrict LSG to 200/5, despite some late sloppiness in the field.

Chasing 255 was always going to be an uphill task for LSG and they went on this pursuit with their third opening combination – Mitchell Marsh joining forces with Ayush Badoni. The duo did well to have a 61-run stand, but it wasn’t enough to chase a steep target.

Though Marsh, Rishabh Pant and Aiden Markram hit 40s each, none could convert it to a huge game-defining knock to give PBKS a scare. With the heavy defeat, LSG got their third straight loss and are now at number eight, with only Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians behind them.

LSG’s experiment of opening Badoni with Marsh began well as they hit 10 boundaries in their opening stand going past fifty, before Vyshak broke the stand on the final ball of the powerplay by deceiving the former with a slower delivery that was comfortably caught by mid-wicket.

Marsh and Pant then tried to inject momentum – with the LSG skipper smoking Jansen for back-to-back sixes. But the introduction of Chahal tightened the screws – with 20 runs coming off overs 9-11, he broke the threatening second-wicket partnership when Marsh dragged a flighted delivery straight to long-on.

Pant continued his solo charge by smashing Chahal for consecutive sixes in the 12th over, but fell for a quick-fire 43 when his attempt to slice a wide yorker from Arshdeep led to him being caught behind, a decision confirmed by UltraEdge.

The chase effectively ended there as Nicholas Pooran’s poor run continued when he fell for nine - mistiming a knuckleball from Jansen to long-on. Markram (42) and Mukul Choudhary (21 not out) entertained with a flurry of boundaries and aided by three dropped catches from PBKS fielders in the final three overs, but the result was a foregone conclusion in the hosts favour.

Brief Scores: Punjab Kings 254/7 in 20 overs (Priyansh Arya 93, Cooper Connolly 87; Prince Yadav 2-25, M Siddharth 2-35) beat Lucknow Super Giants 200/5 in 20 overs (Rishabh Pant 43, Aiden Markram 42; Marco Jansen 2-37, Vijaykumar Vyshak 1-30) by 54 runs

--IANS

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New Delhi, April 19 (IANS) The Supreme Court is slated to hear on Monday a plea filed by the Muslim side challenging the survey order issued by the Chandousi court for the Shahi Jama Masjid in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal district.

As per the cause list published on the website of the apex court, a Bench of Justices PS Narasimha and Alok Aradhe will take up the matter for hearing on April 20.

The petition has been moved by the mosque committee opposing the survey exercise ordered in connection with the ongoing dispute over the Shahi Jama Masjid, which Hindu plaintiffs claim was built over a pre-existing temple structure.

Earlier, the top court had directed both Hindu and Muslim parties to maintain the status quo at the disputed site while hearing a special leave petition (SLP) challenging the Allahabad High Court’s refusal to stay the survey proceedings.

The dispute pertains to claims by the Hindu side that the mosque stands on the ruins of an ancient Harihar temple allegedly demolished during the Mughal period.

On the other hand, the mosque committee has contested the maintainability of the suit and raised objections over the manner in which the survey was ordered.

The controversy intensified after the Allahabad High Court upheld the Chandousi trial court’s direction permitting a survey of the site, finding no legal infirmity in the order.

The Allahabad High Court had also dismissed the mosque committee’s plea seeking a stay on the proceedings. Subsequently, the mosque committee approached the apex court, arguing that the survey order was passed without granting it an adequate opportunity to be heard and in violation of established legal principles.

The matter assumes significance in light of the Places of Worship Act, 1991, which bars the conversion of places of worship and mandates the maintenance of their religious character as it existed on August 15, 1947.

However, the Hindu side contends that the dispute lies beyond the scope of the Act, referring to provisions of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958.

The Shahi Jama Masjid dispute had earlier witnessed tensions on the ground, with violence erupting in Sambhal during a court-ordered survey, which had resulted in multiple fatalities.

In its submissions before the court, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has stated that the Shahi Jama Masjid is a centrally protected monument and cannot be treated as a place of public worship in the absence of supporting records.

--IANS

pds/uk

Imphal, April 19 (IANS) Normal life across the Imphal valley districts of Manipur was severely disrupted on Sunday following the imposition of a five-day shutdown called to protest the killing of two minor children by suspected Kuki militants.

The shutdown was called by Meira Paibis, a most influential women's body, and various Civil Society Organisations (CSOs).

The shutdown, which came into effect from midnight on Saturday, led to a near-complete halt in daily activities across the Imphal valley, comprising five to six districts. In capital Imphal, roads wore a deserted look, with only a very few vehicles seen plying.

Members of the Meira Paibis and groups of women protesters were visible at several locations, blocking roads and restricting vehicular movement. Passenger and commercial vehicles remained off the roads, while shops, business establishments and roadside vendors stayed shut, contributing to the widespread disruption.

The agitation by the Meira Paibis and other CSOs is being spearheaded in connection with demands for justice over the killing of two minors in an incident that occurred in Bishnupur district on April 7, which has triggered widespread public outrage.

Earlier, the Joint Action Committee (JAC) formed in connection with the Bishnupur incident had stated that it had reached an understanding with the state government, which reportedly assured that the demands placed by the JAC would be fulfilled.

However, in a fresh development on Saturday, the JAC introduced a new condition, setting a deadline of April 25 for the arrest of those responsible for the killings.

Meanwhile, the United Naga Council (UNC), an apex body of the Naga community in Manipur, has separately called a three-day total shutdown across all Naga-inhabited areas of the state from midnight on Sunday.

The shutdown has been announced to protest the killing of two Naga civilians, including a retired Indian Army personnel, in Ukhrul district on Saturday, allegedly by suspected Kuki militants. In a statement, the UNC said that in view of the “outrageous aggression over their homeland and the cold-blooded killing of two Naga civilians,” it convened a joint emergency meeting with various organisations on Sunday at Tahamzam in Senapati district.

The statement added that the total shutdown would be observed from midnight on Sunday until midnight of April 23 across all Naga areas, both to mourn the deaths and as a collective expression of condemnation. During this period, all public and private institutions, business establishments and vehicular movement will remain suspended, except for emergency services.

The UNC also announced that a candlelight vigil would be held on the evening of April 23 in all Naga-inhabited district headquarters as well as in Imphal to honour the departed and reaffirm a commitment to peace with dignity.

“During the three days of mourning, the Nagas in the state of Manipur shall suspend all social and economic ties with the Kukis in accordance with Naga customary practice,” the UNC statement said.

In another development, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), an apex body of the Meitei community, has accused security forces of using excessive force against protesters and sharply criticised Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh over what it described as a failure to contain the escalating violence in the state.

COCOMI spokesperson Shanta Nahakpam said that recent incidents, including the killing of two minors earlier this month and subsequent civilian deaths in fresh attacks, have triggered widespread public anger and sustained agitation across the Imphal valley.

He added that despite the deteriorating situation, the Chief Minister has continued district visits projecting progress in the peace process, a claim the organisation has rejected.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 19 (IANS) Actor Ranvir Shorey, who is receiving a lot of positive response to his work in the recently released streaming film ‘Everybody Loves Sohrab Handa’, doesn’t have a favourite genre.

The actor spoke with IANS during the promotions of the film, and shared that as an actor, he keeps himself away from the luxury of picking a favourite genre.

He told IANS, “No particular genre. I think that's one of the reasons why I get along so well with Rajat Kapoor and Vinay Pathak, is that it's not the genre, it's the love of filmmaking. So, the first love is filmmaking. Genres are things you explore. Being a part of this genre, being a part of another genre, playing this part, playing that part, that's explorations of the same thing from different aspects. But the thing always remains the love for filmmaking”.

Meanwhile, ‘Everybody Loves Sohrab Handa’ marks his reunion with Rajat Kapoor and Vinay Pathak with whom he shares a long history of collaborations. The actors, who go a long way back, have been friends for over 30 years, and have collaborated frequently. However, the three of them came together for the first time in 18 years after ‘Mithya’.

Their friendship dates back to their early years in theatre and independent cinema. All three were associated with Mumbai’s English theatre circuit and later became key collaborators in India’s alternative film movement of the 2000s.

‘Everybody Loves Sohrab Handa’ is set during an intimate outstation celebration among friends and family, what begins as effortless banter, free-flowing drinks and games soon curdles into discomfort. When Sohrab is found brutally murdered late at night, the convivial atmosphere collapses, giving way to suspicion, exposed resentments and moral unease.

Produced by Applause Entertainment in association with Mithya Talkies, ‘Everybody Loves Sohrab Handa’ is available to stream on Hindi ZEE5.

--IANS

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Bhubaneswar, April 19 (IANS) Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday underlined the rapid transformation of railway infrastructure in Odisha, emphasising the Union government's strong focus on connectivity and capacity enhancement across the state.

Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony of India's first advanced 3D glass semiconductor packaging unit in Bhubaneswar, Union Minister Vaishnaw told that railway projects worth more than Rs 90,000 crore are currently under execution in Odisha, marking an unprecedented expansion of the rail network.

He highlighted that this scale of investment reflects the Centre's commitment to strengthening both passenger and freight infrastructure in Odisha.

During his visit to Odisha, the Union Minister also inspected the ongoing redevelopment of Bhubaneswar Railway Station, underscoring the importance of timely completion and high-quality execution.

Union Minister Vaishnaw interacted with passengers, who expressed satisfaction with the transformation underway and appreciated the airport like facilities being developed at the station.

He directed officials to expedite the pace of work and ensure timely completion.

Reviewing the proposed elevated corridor on the eastern side, Union Minister Vaishnaw instructed that all pending issues be resolved on priority to facilitate its early completion.

He emphasised that the upgraded station will deliver enhanced passenger comfort with modern amenities, reflecting Indian Railways' commitment to transforming railway stations into world-class infrastructure hubs aligned with evolving passenger expectations.

In his address, Union Minister Vaishnaw said that Odisha has received a record railway budget allocation of Rs 10,928 crore, significantly higher than past allocations, enabling faster execution of projects.

He also noted that 59 railway stations are being redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, aimed at transforming railway stations into modern, passenger-friendly hubs with enhanced amenities.

Highlighting connectivity goals, Union Minister Vaishnaw said that all 30 districts of Odisha are being brought under rail connectivity through planned interventions.

He emphasised that this will ensure inclusive development and better integration of remote and interior regions with the mainstream rail network.

The Union Minister also pointed to major infrastructure initiatives such as the proposed four-line coastal rail corridor from Balasore to Berhampur, which will significantly enhance capacity along the coastal belt.

He noted that such projects will improve regional mobility, reduce congestion, and boost economic activity across Odisha.

Union Minister Vaishnaw concluded that these transformative railway initiatives will strengthen regional connectivity, support economic growth, and integrate Odisha more closely with national freight and passenger networks.

The ongoing investments and policy push are set to position Odisha as a key beneficiary of India's expanding railway infrastructure.

--IANS

gyan/khz

Kohima, April 19 (IANS) Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav on Sunday highlighted the rich cultural diversity of Northeast India, describing the region as a vibrant mosaic of traditions.

He noted that it is home to numerous tribes, each with its own distinct languages, attire, music, dance forms and customs, reflecting the unique heritage of the region.

The Nagaland Governor, who is also the Chairman of the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC), attended the first edition of the “Uttar-Poorv Janjatiya Basant Utsav” -- North East Tribal Spring Festival -- held at NEZCC Shilpgram in Guwahati on Sunday.

Emphasising the need to preserve indigenous knowledge and cultural identity in a rapidly changing world, Yadav urged the youth to take pride in their roots while embracing progress and innovation.

Expressing confidence in the future of the festival, the Governor said that the Northeast, with its vibrant tribal traditions, stands as a shining example of how culture can serve as a powerful force for unity and development. He conveyed his hope that the festival will grow in scale and significance in the years to come.

The Governor expressed his delight at being part of the inaugural edition of the festival, which celebrates the vibrant spirit, rich traditions and cultural diversity of the Northeastern region.

He extended his salutations to the distinguished guests of honour, including Guru Jatin Goswami, Guru Drona Bhuyan, Guru Sanyusang S. Pongener, and Pokhila Lekthepi, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to art, culture and society.

Highlighting the significance of the festival, the Governor stated that the event symbolises not only the arrival of spring but also the blossoming of unity in diversity.

Yadav said that such festivals provide an important platform to showcase and celebrate this rich heritage.

Speaking on the essence of Basant Utsav, the Governor remarked that it represents renewal, hope and harmony, and reflects the deep connection between nature and culture upheld by tribal communities.

He observed that their sustainable lifestyles, respect for nature and strong community values offer valuable lessons for contemporary society.

The Governor commended the efforts of the organisers led by Dr Prashanna Gogoi, Director, NEZCC, for conceptualising the festival, which promotes cultural exchange and strengthens national integration.

He stated that bringing together artists and communities from across the region fosters mutual respect and understanding.

The Governor also congratulated the organisers and extended his best wishes for the grand success of the festival, expressing hope that it will continue to flourish as a symbol of cultural pride, harmony and shared heritage.

--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

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

Mumbai, April 19 (IANS) Veteran actress Waheeda Rehman talked about the celebrated filmmaker and actor, Guru Dutt, during her appearance on the popular chat show "Rendezvous With Simi Garewal".

Turning back the clock, when host Simi Garewal asked Waheeda Rehman if Guru Dutt was ahead of his time, the veteran actress shared that while his movies 'Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam' and 'Kaagaz Ke Phool' were considered a little advanced, "Pyaasa" ended up working at the box office despite having no expectations.

Simi was heard saying during the episode, "Some historians say that Guru Dutt came into this world 4 decades too early. Do you agree with that?"

Waheed Rehman replied saying "I don't know, it is difficult to say. For 'Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam' and 'Kaagaz Ke Phool', people said that he made the movie before its time, but when 'Pyaasa' came, people said that the film would release on Friday and would fold by Monday, but it ended up working. So, it is very difficult to say."

Simi also commented that "I don't think Guru Dutt would have been able to survive in today's world."

Agreeing with her, Waheeda Rehman added, "Today, the world is moving so fast that people do not have time. He was someone to sit back. Not only Guru Dutt ji, but I would say even Bimal Roy, Asif Sahab, they used to take 2 days just to light a shot. Today, the artists do not have such kind of time."

It must be noted that Waheeda Rehman starred in many iconic films directed or produced by Guru Dutt, including "Pyaasa", "Kaagaz Ke Phool", "Chaudhvin Ka Chand, "Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam", and "C.I.D".

Considered one of the greatest filmmakers of Indian cinema, Guru Dutt is believed to have been influenced by Alfred Hitchcock during his initial days.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 19 (IANS) Many netizens expressed their disappointment as it seemed like senior actor Sudhir Pandey was being ignored during an event of the forthcoming sequel "Ginny Wedss Sunny" starring Avinash Tiwary and Medha Shankr.

Avinash has now asked Sudhir Pandey to explain what transpired that day in his own words.

Recently, a video surfaced on social media where it looked like Sudhir Pandey was being ignored during an event of "Ginny Wedss Sunny 2". While Avinash was busy interacting with the media, everyone else seemed to be ignoring Sudhir Pandey. He was even seen walking off the stage in the back.

On Saturday, Sudhir Panday dropped a video expressing his gratitude for all the love he has been receiving since the trailer launch of "Ginny Wedss Sunny 2".

In the comment section, one of the netizens said, "@avinashtiwary15 bro why didn’t u stopped him when he left the stage ? I mean I’m ur fan but didn’t expected this from u tho".

Reacting to this, Avinash requested Sudhir Panday to explain the matter.

He wrote, "Kaisi baat kar di aapne @sudhirpande22 Sir ab aap hi bataiye :)"

Sudhir Panday revealed that he had reached the event from the middle of a shoot and hence had to get back.

"@avinashtiwary15 It was nothing Avinash… I had come to attend the launch of OUR film’s trailer from the middle of my shoot so there was an urgency to get back to my shoot …," explained the senior actor.

Meanwhile, Sudhir Panday was heard saying in his post, "Since a few days, after the launch of the trailer for Gimme with Sunny 2 on Insta, I have received so many good reactions, so many good wishes from people, so many good views. The more I read those views, a new energy was born within me. Thank you, I would like to thank all my fans from the bottom of my heart. And to be honest, I don't have the words to thank you in these words."

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 19 (IANS) Darshan Kumar, the younger brother of the T-series founder Gulshan Kumar, passed away on April 18 in Delhi. He was 70 years old.

Several members from the music industry, along with other well-wishers, offered their tributes to the deceased on social media.

Singer Mika Singh was one of the first to share the unfortunate news through a post on his official Instagram handle.

He wrote on the photo-sharing app, "Just heard the heartbreaking news that Darshan Kumar ji, the owner of T-Series, has left us with his beautiful memories. He was truly a great man and always so helpful. He launched and supported so many singers and gave opportunities to countless talents. (sic)"

"May Mata Rani bless his soul and give him eternal peace. Rest in peace. Om Shanti," Mika went on to add.

As the netizens learned about the demise, they flooded the comment section with condolences.

Darshan Kumar has played a significant role in helping T-Series, the music label established by his brother Gulshan Kumar back in 1983, reach new heights.

While T-Series is now led by chairman Bhushan Kumar along with Krishan Kumar, Darshan Kumar held a senior position in the company in the earlier years. However, he preferred to keep a low profile and stayed away from the limelight.

In a rare occurrence, Darshan Kumar was last seen in 2025, when devotional singer Mani Ladla published a picture with him, recalling a personal meeting.

Looking back at the glorious legacy of T-series, Gulshan Kumar founded Super Cassettes Industries Private Limited, later known as T-Series, single-handedly revolutionising the Indian music industry.

The company played a huge role in making music more accessible to the common man, bringing devotional songs and film soundtracks into every household.

However, Gulshan Kumar was fatally shot outside the Jeeteshwar Mahadev Temple in Andheri West, Mumbai, on 12 August 1997. leaving the entire country shocked.

--IANS

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Mumbai, April 19 (IANS) Actress Kajal Aggarwal compiled a sweet birthday wish for her son Neil as he celebrated his 4th birthday on Sunday.

The 'Singham' actress took to her official Instagram account and published a couple of photos from Neil's astronomical-themed birthday celebration.

Hoping that the little one's love and curiosity for the universe never fades, Kajal wrote on the photo-sharing app, "Happiest 4th birthday, my darling sunshine Neil....May your love for adventure, space, planets, and this beautiful universe always shine bright. May your curiosity and magical imagination never fade. (sic)"

"May you always feel the blessings of Lord Ram and Krishna, and continue to joyfully lose yourself in their beautiful stories. May you always remain their most favourite child We love you more than all the stars in the sky," she went on to add.

Referring to her little one's love for astronomy, Kajal concluded the post saying, "P.S. You truly do justice to your name, my little astronaut...Reaching for the stars already and stealing our hearts along the way."

For those who do not know, Kajal tied the knot with businessman Gautam Kitchlu on October 30, 2020. The lovebirds welcomed their first child, a baby boy, on 19 April 2022.

On the professional front, Kajal is believed to play Mandodari in Nitesh Tiwari's highly ambitious "Ramayana".

The forthcoming mythological drama will also feature Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Mata Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman.

Backed by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios and VFX studio DNEG in collaboration with Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, "Ramayana" will have some noteworthy names as part of its crew, including Oscar-winning composers Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman, and 'Mad Max: Fury Road' fame stunt director Guy Norris, along with Terry Notary known for "Avengers", and "Planet of the Apes".

--IANS

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