Kochi, Sep 16 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate’s case in the CMRL-Exalogic monthly payment controversy on Wednesday ran into a fresh challenge with CMRL Chief Financial Officer K.S. Suresh Kumar submitting an affidavit seeking to withdraw the statement he had given to the agency, in which he had linked payments made to Veena Vijayan to her position as the daughter of then Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

The development comes days after the ED submitted a report to the Kerala Police seeking action against Pinarayi Vijayan, Veena, her husband and CPI(M) legislator P.A. Mohammed Riyas over alleged corruption and money-laundering offences.

The ED had relied substantially on Suresh Kumar’s statement in its report, alleging that payments made by CMRL to Veena’s company, Exalogic Solutions, were bribes intended for Pinarayi.

Suresh Kumar has alleged that ED officials threatened him and obtained his statement under pressure.

He has further alleged that the investigating officers were unwilling to record or consider the answers he actually gave during questioning.

Suresh Kumar also alleged that he was pressured to name political leaders.

He has now sought to retract the earlier version of his statement and correct what he had told the ED. His earlier statement had assumed significance in the ED’s latest findings.

According to the agency’s report, he stated that CMRL continued making payments to Veena because of her influence, as she was the daughter of Pinarayi Vijayan.

The ED interpreted the payments as bribes allegedly received by Vijayan through his daughter.

The development comes as the state government is examining the ED’s request to register a case against Vijayan, Veena and Riyas.

The government has sought legal advice before deciding on further action.

Reacting to the fresh development, Riyas said the way the "ED in the country behaves is known to all", after hearing from people who have been subjected to the ED probe.

“The details that were in the dairy were just forward planning done by her (Veena) as she was to start a new business,” said Riyas.

Earlier in the day, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan said Vijayan and Riyas were making contradictory statements about the ‘red diary’. Vijayan categorically said there was no such diary, while Riyas said there was one.

--IANS

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Patna, Sep 16 (IANS) RJD Rajya Sabha MP, Manoj Jha, on Wednesday criticised the Centre over its response to the flood situation in Bihar, as a central team led by Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, is arriving in the state to assess the damage.

The central team’s visit today had been announced by Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, who said the team would assess the flood situation and damage to crops, houses and infrastructure.

Speaking about Chouhan’s visit, RJD Rajya Sabha MP and chief national spokesperson Manoj Jha, at Patna airport on Wednesday, alleged that the Centre’s response had come late.

“You have arrived very late. Had there been election in Bihar, these 150 people probably would be sitting here. During the election, the entire Cabinet was scrambling, but now, the plight of Bihar is not on their minds. Now they are coming today—I hear they are arriving on a chartered plane. It would have been far better had they spent that money on helping flood victims,” Jha said.

Jha also criticised those advocating the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), saying he had already expressed his party’s position on the issue in Parliament.

“Those talking about the UCC are engaging in ‘dog-whistle politics’,” Jha said.

He also referred to a statement attributed to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, saying Bhagwat had stated that “uniformity is not essential for unity.”

Earlier on Tuesday, the Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav, also questioned the purpose of Chouhan’s visit, asking whether the Union Minister was bringing assistance for flood victims or merely coming for a photo opportunity.

Yadav questioned why the Centre had not provided greater financial assistance to Bihar and reiterated his demand that the flood situation be declared a national disaster.

His criticism follows earlier demands for a special package for flood victims and allegations that the Centre has discriminated against Bihar.

Yadav also reiterated his criticism of the government's approach to Bihar, alleging that the Centre was not doing enough to address the problems faced by people in the state.

The central team led by Shivraj Singh Chouhan will visit flood-affected areas to assess the extent of damage.

The planned programme includes aerial and ground surveys of areas including Dighwara and Maner, along with visits to other affected locations.

A high-level review meeting is also scheduled in Patna to assess relief and rescue operations.

The Centre’s assessment comes amid widespread flooding in Bihar.

Recent reports said nearly 50 lakh people across 15 districts had been affected, with several rivers continuing to flow above danger levels despite water levels receding in some areas.

The assessment is expected to help determine the extent of flood damage and the relief and rehabilitation measures required in the affected areas.

--IANS

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Shimla, Sep 16 (IANS) India’s diplomatic dining experience at Rashtrapati Bhavan is set to acquire a distinct Himachali touch, with traditional cuisines from the Himalayan state -- with a touch of nature's earthiness and the unmistakable aroma of guchhi, one of the world’s most prized morel mushrooms grown in high mountains -- being introduced to the menu for visiting dignitaries and elite guests after a special culinary training programme conducted by a government chef from Himachal Pradesh.

Acclaimed chef Nand Lal Sharma, Consultant (Food and Beverage) with Himachal Tourism and President of the Himachal Chef Association, was invited by the President’s Secretariat to train cooks at Rashtrapati Bhavan in authentic Himachali cuisines.

During his week-long stay, he showcased traditional dishes from the Kangra and Mandi regions, highlighting the culinary heritage of the hills through recipes rooted in local ingredients, slow-cooking techniques and generations-old traditions.

The most popular ‘dham’, a multi-course traditional saatvik (vegetarian) feast served by sitting together on the ground on special occasions like weddings and festivals and eating without forks or spoons, is prepared by Bhotis, the Brahmin chefs who have traditionally been cooking for generations.

Most of the utensils used for cooking are made from copper or brass. “For us, Himachali food is soul-rooted in Himalayan cultures and preserving its authenticity, as every dish has its meaning, and then showcasing culinary diversity of the mountain communities on the diplomatic table is the aim of my Rashtrapati Bhavan’s visit,” Sharma told IANS in an interview on Wednesday.

He cooked lip-smacking and mouth-watering recipes of the Kangra and Mandi regions, popularly known as Kangri and Mandiali dishes, during his weeklong stay in Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Sharma, the President of the Himachal Chef Association, said that during his stay in the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the food is served on “pattals” (broad leaves of a tree); rice first and then a round of other items.

According to him, he also got an opportunity to train one personal chef of President Droupadi Murmu, besides three others.

Sharma, who got an opportunity to interact with the President, said she liked the gucchi recipe most. Gucchi, or Morchella Esculenta, is a mushroom variety that grows naturally on snowy slopes.

In Himachal Pradesh, gucchi is grown in dense deodar forests mainly in the interiors of Shimla, Chamba, Kullu and Mandi districts. Since its trade is not regulated by the government, there is no estimation about its overall production.

Villagers have permission from the Forest Department to collect gucchi, which falls under the category of “minor forest produce”. The President’s office, in a missive to the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation Managing Director on July 16, asked him to depute Sharma to train cooks at Rashtrapati Bhavan in local and Himachali cuisines.

“During the recent visit of the Honourable President of India to Mashobra, Shimla, it was found that Shri Nand Lal Sharma has great expertise in local cuisines and the Honourable President of India was highly appreciative of this,” reads the letter.

“For me it was a profound honour and, of course, a truly humbling experience to showcase our food cultures that will help connect communities across the Himalayan state,” Sharma told IANS.

In Himachal, the main course of Mandiali dishes comprises rajmah, kale chane ka khatta (sour), maa ki dal cooked in spices with generous amounts of desi ghee, karahi, sepu vadi, kaddu (red pumpkin) ka mitha (sweet) and a bowl of rice.

The traditional multi-course meal of the Kangra Valley has mandra (spiced vegetable and yoghurt curry), mahni (spicy sweet and sour curry), maah, chana dal (split Bengal gram with fennel seeds), budane ka mitha (sweet), rainthla (date and spinach curry) and rice. Meethe chawal, or sweet-spiced fragrant rice, is a common dessert in Kangra.

Sharma, the former chief chef at Hotel Holiday Home in Shimla, said the President, who relishes only a vegetarian diet without onion and garlic, liked ‘bathu ki kheer’, a special dessert prepared with chenopodium seeds grown in high reaches, milk and sugar.

Also, the President liked the classic dish sepu vadi -- urad dal dumplings fried and then simmered in curd gravy.

(Vishal Gulati can be contacted at vishal.g@ians.in)

--IANS

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New Delhi, Sep 16 (IANS) The Customs department should step up the use of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and real-time analytics to reduce physical interface with trusted taxpayers and lower transaction costs for businesses, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs Chairman Vivek Chaturvedi said on Wednesday.

Speaking at an event here, Chaturvedi outlined a long-term vision for the Customs department, calling for a technology-driven system that offers businesses a near-touchless and near-paperless experience.

He said the department should work towards building a unified, trusted taxpayer ecosystem that captures consistent compliance by businesses across GST, Customs and other indirect taxes, helping create greater synergy across the indirect tax system.

According to him, the department must accelerate the deployment of AI, ML and real-time analytics, cyclical and predictive applications.

Greater adoption of technology would help reduce transaction and cargo dwell costs for businesses, he said.

The CBIC chief also called for greater support to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), including through outreach programmes to help them benefit from Customs facilitation schemes.

He said the department should handhold MSMEs so they can make greater use of deferred-duty payment schemes such as Eligible Manufacturer Importer (EMI) and the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme.

Technology should serve as a "great enabler" for Customs, with the objective of creating a near-touchless, near-digital experience particularly for businesses with AEO status, Chaturvedi said.

There are currently more than 6,000 entities with AEO certificates, including importers, exporters, logistics providers, custodians and terminal operators, customs brokers and warehouse operators.

The AEO programme is a voluntary compliance initiative under which Customs works closely with supply-chain stakeholders to strengthen cargo security while facilitating legitimate trade.

Chaturvedi also stressed the need for seamless coordination among government agencies, deeper data integration and wider global reciprocity through Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs).

--IANS

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Mumbai, Sep 16 (IANS) Actress Mona Singh, who has showcased her acting prowess with her work in projects such as Made in Heaven, Laal Singh Chaddha, 3 Idiots and most recently in Kohrra season 2, has spoken about the role of the industry and her own decisions in shaping her career.

Mona said in a statement: “I think 40 percent is the industry. They provide the soil, the script, the platform, and 60 percent is me. You know, I choose which seeds to plant and, most importantly, which ones to pull out.”

Speaking about her initial years, she said: “So talking about my Jassi era, you see, a lot of things, a lot of decisions were made around me, for me. You know, after Jassi, I had suddenly become the relatable girl next door, you know, the moral compass, the heart. So all the choices that I was being offered was within those four walls.”

The actress said that the real shift started to happen when she learned the art of saying no.

“The real shift happened when I started saying no to 90 percent of the shows that were being offered to me. So the architecture was choosing to wait for shows like Made in Heaven, for Laal Singh Chaddha, for Bads Of Bollywood, and recently for Kohraa.”

The actress said: “So the architecture of a career, you know, is rarely a solo project. I feel it's a constant tug of war between the blueprint that you draw and the weather conditions around you.”

Mona gained recognition for her role in the soap opera Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin, which first premiered in 2003. She was then seen in the first season of the reality series Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, and Kya Huaa Tera Vaada.

She shot to major stardom with her work in shows such as Pyaar Ko Ho Jaane Do and Kavach... Kaali Shaktiyon Se.

Mona made her film debut with a supporting role in Rajkumar Hirani's comedy-drama 3 Idiots in 2009 and then branched out to the web space with Kehne Ko Humsafar Hain and Yeh Meri Family.

--IANS

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Kalaburagi (Karnataka), Sep 16 (IANS) Karnataka Home Minister, Priyank Kharge, on Wednesday took a dig at BJP leaders over the controversy surrounding the singing of Vande Mataram, challenging Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka and BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra to sing the full National Song without the aid of a teleprompter.

Speaking in Kalaburagi, HM Kharge said, "We know only two stanzas. BJP MLAs have left the platform claiming that it is an insult. I am preparing a platform for R. Ashoka and B.Y. Vijayendra. Let them sing Vande Mataram without a teleprompter."

He further said BJP leaders should sing the entire song after practising it. "Since yesterday, BJP leaders must have been memorising it. At least let them sing after practising," Kharge said, taking a jibe at BJP leaders.

He also claimed that even Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah did not know how to sing Vande Mataram in full.

On the proposed special session of the Karnataka Assembly, HM Kharge said the government had convened it to discuss issues concerning the people.

"We have called a special Assembly session to discuss the issues of the people. The Monsoon Session was completely disrupted by the Opposition parties," he said.

Kharge said the state government was also ready to discuss the alleged KPSC scam in the Assembly and challenged the BJP to participate in the discussion.

"We are ready to discuss the KPSC scam as well. Let BJP come for discussion," he said.

Responding to Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy's allegations regarding the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) scam, Kharge said Kumaraswamy had initially alleged that he was involved in the scam and later demanded that he take moral responsibility.

"Kumaraswamy first stated that Priyank Kharge is involved in the KPSC scam, later he is claiming that I should take moral responsibility," he said.

HM Kharge questioned why BJP leaders were not naming suspended KPSC Chairman Shivashankarappa S. Sahukar who had been appointed by a previous BJP government in the state, while raising allegations related to the recruitment irregularities.

"Why are BJP leaders not taking the name of suspended KPSC Chairman Shivashankarappa S. Sahukar? Why won't BJP leaders discuss anything about him?" he asked.

The remarks came amid a political confrontation between the ruling Congress and opposition BJP over the KPSC controversy and the issue of Vande Mataram.

--IANS

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Thimphu, Sep 16 (IANS) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar arrived in Bhutan on Wednesday for a two-day official visit aimed at further deepening long-standing bilateral cooperation, and was warmly received at the airport by Bhutanese Foreign Minister Lyonpo D. N. Dhungyel.

“Kuzuzangpo la Bhutan! Delighted to arrive in Paro today. Thank Lyonpo D. N Dhungyel, Foreign Minister of Bhutan, for the warm welcome. Look forward to my engagements to advance our unique ties of friendship,” EAM posted on X.

According to the MEA, during his visit, EAM Jaishankar will hold bilateral talks with Foreign Minister Dhungyel.

The External Affairs Minister is also scheduled to receive a royal audience with Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and call on Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay.

“The visit is in keeping with the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between India and Bhutan, and to further strengthen the existing close ties of friendship and cooperation between the two countries,” the MEA said.

The visit comes against the backdrop of continued high-level and institutional engagement between India and Bhutan, with cooperation spanning diplomatic, developmental and people-centric initiatives.

Earlier on Monday, Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar called on Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck in Thimphu at the beginning of his three-day visit to Bhutan.

The CEC’s visit is aimed at further strengthening institutional cooperation between the Election Commission of India and the Election Commission of Bhutan, building on their continued engagement, according to an official statement.

A key engagement during Kumar’s visit was the celebration of Bhutan’s National Voters’ Day at the Jigme Singye Wangchuck School of Law in Paro on Tuesday.

EAM Jaishankar’s visit is expected to provide an opportunity for India and Bhutan to review their bilateral relationship and discuss areas of continued cooperation during his meetings with the Bhutanese leadership.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Sep 16 (IANS) Nitish Kumar Reddy’s return from injury received a timely boost in India’s second T20I against Afghanistan, with the all-rounder producing a match-winning bowling performance with a three-wicket haul. After an underwhelming outing in the series opener, Nitish said the confidence gained from his second-game performance was exactly what he needed as he continues his comeback.

"Feels great, you know, every player needs the confidence when they’re coming from injury, and to be fair, the first game was not that great for me and in the second game I’m feeling much more happy enough because any player would be needing this confidence and I hope I continue this confidence forward," Nitish said in a BCCI video on Wednesday.

Nitish was named Player of the Match after returning figures of 3/24, playing a key role as India restricted Afghanistan to 159/8 before chasing down the target with seven wickets in hand. The performance came after the 22-year-old had spoken about the work done at the BCCI Centre of Excellence to get his body back to full fitness.

The all-rounder also highlighted the confidence he has received from the Indian team management since breaking into the side, saying the backing has allowed him to focus on his game without worrying about his place.

“It’s always been a privilege to be a part of the Indian team and the management, obviously, they have given me enough opportunities and they have shown a lot of trust. I think that is what a player would actually need and that I’m getting from the management. I’m pretty happy with that,” he added.

However, the road back from injury has also brought a mental challenge. Nitish revealed that the long periods at the COE can be mentally taxing despite the available facilities and training, with conversations with close friends and family helping him cope with the fatigue.

“I have a couple of best friends, I talk to them every day. It’s just mentally very fatigued in COE. Obviously, it feels great to be, you know, getting those many facilities over there to train, to perform, to increase whatever ability you have. But I would say, I talk to my friends, I talk to my family and here and there I go to my home and come back for 1-2 days. That is kind of relief, but yeah, that mentally is one thing which we need to take care of,” he stated.

For Nitish, managing his body is particularly important given the workload of being an all-rounder. While injuries can be difficult to accept, he believes the response to setbacks ultimately comes down to maintaining the right mindset.

“Injuries happen. Because maybe I’m an all-rounder, I have a lot more loads to work on. I have to keep an eye on them, I have to recover. I’m taking all the boxes but somewhere, you know, when you get this injury, you will feel bad about it and it’s all about mindset, I would say.

“You have to be really strong at those points. You don’t have to let any negative talk or any negative people coming at that time and poking at you. You just have to be mentally positive and do the good things and God will give you at the right time,” he concluded.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Feb 13 (IANS) Maharashtra NCP(SP) President Shashikant Shinde has written a commemorative editorial in the party’s magazine, shedding light on the hidden dynamics of the split and the alleged merger plans between the two NCP factions.

Shinde claimed that late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was forced to exit the original NCP due to threats and conspiracies orchestrated by "invisible powers."

He further said that a final decision to merge the two parties was reached in the presence of Maratha strongman Sharad Pawar and was to be announced on February 12.

In a massive revelation, Shinde asserted that Sharad Pawar and other senior leaders had agreed to hand over the entire command of the unified party to Ajit Pawar following the merger.

“Fulfilling this merger and rebuilding the party with strength would be the only true tribute to Ajit Dada," Shinde wrote.

Shinde clarified, "It was our decision to hand over all party responsibilities to Ajit Dada once the merger process was complete. However, fate had other plans. We were all mentally prepared to accept Ajit Dada’s leadership.”

Shinde appealed to the party faithful, asserting that a merger is the only true tribute to the late leader. He noted, “Ajit Pawar’s dream remains unfulfilled, and it is now the party's responsibility to complete it. Unity: Reuniting and strengthening the NCP is the ultimate goal. Leaders and workers must set aside their differences and broaden their perspective to achieve this unity.”

Following the publication of the article, senior NCP(SP) leader and former Home Minister Anil Deshmukh remarked, "I am unaware of what our State President has said. Since he wrote the article, he likely has more information than I do. I personally have no knowledge of this matter."

While Sharad Pawar has avoided commenting publicly on the matter, Shinde’s article has brought these behind-the-scenes developments to light. However, Shinde’s revelations have sparked a new controversy and the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) has reacted with sharp skepticism.

Party spokesperson Suraj Chavan questioned the timing of these claims. Chavan alleged that discussing a merger while the leader’s mortal remains were still at Vidya Pratishthan suggests a "lust for power" rather than genuine respect. He clarified that Sunetra Pawar is now the ultimate authority of their party and any dialogue must happen through her.

Further, the party legislator Amol Mitkari stated that no such merger discussions have occurred within their internal party meetings, attributing the rumours to the rival camp's leaders.

While the Pawar family continues to demonstrate a unique balance of political rivalry and familial bond — recently seen at family weddings — the political future remains clouded.

All eyes are now on Sunetra Pawar. Whether she will pursue the "unfulfilled dream" of a unified NCP or maintain a separate identity, remains a question that will define the next chapter of Maharashtra politics.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) India’s share in global electronics demand has expanded at a rapid compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.2 per cent, significantly outpacing global growth of 4.4 per cent between 2015 and 2024, driven primarily by the sharp rise in mobile phone exports, according to NITI Aayog's Trade Watch Quarterly report for July-September 2025-26, launched on Friday.

Between 2016 and 2024, electronics exports increased nearly five-fold, reaching USD 42.1 billion. With global electronics trade valued at USD 4.6 trillion, the sector represents one of the largest and fastest-evolving segments of the world economy. India has demonstrated particular strength in products such as mobile phones, consumer electronics, and communication equipment, with exports increasingly directed towards major final-consumption markets including the United States, the United Kingdom, and the UAE, the report states.

Electronics, the thematic focus of this quarter's edition, has emerged as a cornerstone of India's manufacturing and export transformation. Now the second-largest item in India's export basket, the sector is both technology-led and deeply interconnected with industries such as automotive, renewable energy, telecom, defence, and digital services, making it a powerful multiplier for industrial growth.

The report states that having established a strong foothold in assembly and system integration, India is now entering the next phase of its electronics journey, moving decisively toward component manufacturing and higher value addition. This transition is supported by targeted policy measures, including the Union Budget's Rs 40,000 crore allocation under the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme, aimed at strengthening domestic capabilities.

The analysis underscores that sustained competitiveness will be driven by deeper integration into global electronics value chains, encompassing printed circuit board design, semiconductor assembly and testing, power electronics, and embedded systems. Complemented by continued improvements in logistics efficiency, tariff rationalisation, and industry-aligned skill development, these shifts position electronics as a key engine of India's export growth and technological advancement in the coming decade.

NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman Suman Bery said, "Electronics, as the organising core of modern manufacturing value chains, with semiconductors and components, plays a key role in determining trade balances and technological sovereignty. While India has achieved scale in final assembly, sustained competitiveness will depend on correcting structural cost disabilities, deepening domestic component ecosystems, and leveraging anchor investments in components to embed Indian firms more firmly within global production networks."

The publication also provides a comprehensive assessment of global and domestic trade trends at a time when global trade growth has moderated but remains positive, with services continuing to outperform goods and developing regions emerging as key drivers.

The analysis highlights that India's trade performance in Q2 FY26 was driven by export-led momentum sustaining the overall trade expansion amid heightened global uncertainty. Services and merchandise exports recorded robust growth of around 8.5 per cent, outpacing import growth in both merchandise and services.

At a structural level, the edition underscores the deepening of trade among developing economies, which has expanded nearly four-fold since 2005 and now accounts for a rising share of global exports, with India’s trade trajectory increasingly aligned with this Global South rebalancing through regional value chains and new trade corridors.

Further, this edition highlights the growing role of e-commerce as a key enabler of future export growth. India is now among the world’s top six e-commerce markets, with electronics accounting for nearly half of online retail.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) In a farmer-centric step to stabilise domestic markets and ensure remunerative returns to producers, the Centre on Friday approved the export of 25 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of wheat, along with an additional 5 LMT of wheat products.

According to a Consumer Affairs Ministry statement, wheat stock availability with private entities during 2025–26 stands at approximately 75 LMT, which is nearly 32 LMT higher compared to the corresponding period last year.

"This substantial year-on-year increase indicates a comfortable supply position in the country. Furthermore, as on April 1, 2026, total wheat availability in the central pool with FCI is projected at around 182 LMT, thus ensuring that export permissions will not impact domestic food security requirements," it said.

Moreover, wheat acreage in Rabi 2026 has also increased to about 334.17 lakh hectares compared to 328.04 lakh hectares last year.

This reflects strong farmer confidence in wheat cultivation supported by assured MSP and procurement mechanisms, and signals the likelihood of another robust harvest, the official statement further added.

The decision to permit export of 25 LMT of wheat and 5 LMT wheat products will help stabilise domestic prices, improve market liquidity, ensure efficient stock rotation, and further strengthen farmers’ income while ensuring national food security.

Meanwhile, to facilitate sugar exports, the government decided to allow export of an additional 5 LMT of sugar to willing sugar mills during the current Sugar Season 2025–26.

Earlier, the government had permitted the export of 15 LMT of sugar during the current Sugar Season 2025–26. This decision is expected to facilitate higher sugar exports and help in managing surplus sugar availability in the country.

As per data, only about 1.97 LMT of sugar has been exported up to January 31, 2026.

In addition, approximately 2.72 LMT of sugar has been contracted for export by sugar mills to date.

The ministry said that the additional export quantity of 5 LMT shall be made available to willing sugar mills, subject to the condition that at least 70 per cent of their allocated quantity is exported by June 30, 2026.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Sep 16 (IANS) Actress Raveena Tandon has spoken about reminiscing her iconic on-screen pairing with Govinda and said that apart from Karisma Kapoor and her, she doesn’t think anyone else pairs up with the star as brilliantly

Raveena, who will feature as a special guest in the show India’s Best Dancer Season 5 semi-final episode, will be seen reminiscing about her on-screen pairing with Govinda and the interesting story behind the 1998 film Dulhe Raja.

During a conversation with host Harssh Limbachiyaa in the upcoming episode, Raveena recalls how she and Govinda had signed films together earlier, but things did not work out.

However, a trip to Calcutta for a store opening led to an unexpected conversation with Govinda, who suggested that they should do a film together. The two then visited a temple before beginning work on Dulhe Raja.

Raveena said in a statement: “Ji actually kahani aisi thi ki Chichi aur mera kahin na kahin humne filmein sign ki thi lekin woh work out nahi ho rahi thi, something or the other was not working out toh fir ek aisa hua ki hum Calcutta gaye the store opening ke liye toh Chichi ne bola yaar Raveena kuch toh karna chahiye humein ek film karni chahiye saath mein, meri ek film hai chal hum log pehle mandir chalte hain fir hum log Kali Mata Rani ke mandir gaye waha pe subah-subah 5:30 baje pooja ki aur phir aaye and next day we started Dulhe Raja and it worked out so well for us (sic).”

(The story was that Chichi ‘Govinda’ and I had signed films together at some point, but they weren’t working out. Something or the other would always go wrong. Then, one time, we went to Calcutta for a store opening. Chichi said, ‘Raveena, we should do something together. We should make a film together. I have a film—come, let’s first go to the temple.’ So we went to the Kali Mata temple, offered prayers early in the morning at around 5:30, and then came back. The very next day, we started Dulhe Raja, and it worked out so well for us.)

Speaking about her equation with Govinda, Raveena added: “And I think dekha jaaye toh Chichi ji ke saath aaj bhi jab baat hoti hai toh besides Lolo and me I don’t think we pair up anyone else that brilliantly with Chichi.”

(And if you look at it, even today, whenever I talk to Chichi ji, apart from Lolo and me, I don’t think anyone else pairs up with Chichi as brilliantly.)

“Sense of dancing, unki sense of timing, unki sense of comedy main toh logon ko bolti hoon, comedy timing toh maine Chichi se hi sikhi hai.”

(His sense of dancing, his sense of timing, his sense of comedy—I tell people that I actually learned comic timing from Chichi.)

Raveena also recalls how their love for dance turned into a playful challenge while shooting their song “Ladka Deewana Lage”.

She said, “Toh ye jo gaana tha ye actually is gaane se start kiya aur jo aap dekhenge ek shot hum ek dusre ko dekhte hain aur meri aur Chichi ki itni hansi nikal rahi thi na…”

(So, this song was actually where it all started. In one shot, when you see the two of us looking at each other, we were laughing so much…)

“Because that was a first time we could see both of us used to love dancing and hum log literally dancing mein ek dusre ko challenge kar rahe hain ki tu better shot dega ki mai better shot dungi so we used to be like that toh vo gaane mai hi hamarai jo tuning bethi uske baad lagataar Garib, Dariya Gyarah picture ki saat mai.”

(Because it was the first time we realized that we both loved dancing. We were literally challenging each other through our dancing… ‘Will you give the better shot, or will I?’ That’s how we used to be.)

(The chemistry and understanding we developed while doing that song continued afterward, and we went on to work together in Gair, Dariya Dil, Gharana, and Aunty No. 1.)”

India’s Best Dancer Season 5 airs on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Sep 16 (IANS) Comedian and actor Kapil Sharma is all set to return with the fifth season of his popular comedy show, “The Kapil Sharma Show.”

Talking about returning to the show, Kapil said he is looking forward to celebrating the upcoming festive season with the audience and making the occasion even more special through the show. Kapil said, “Every season, we think we have done enough masti (fun), and then we realize that we are not done yet! And somewhere I feel that’s what keeps us going.”

“We are extremely grateful for the love our audience, world over, has given The Great Indian Kapil Show on Netflix, and this time around we will be celebrating the upcoming festivities wholeheartedly… be it Diwali or Christmas. Bas lifafe Archana ji se duur rakhiye, baki hum Hasi ka Tyohaar to le kar aa hi rahe hain! (Just keep the gifts and envelopes away from Archana ji, we are coming soon with the festival of laughter.)"

Tanya Bami, Series Head, Netflix, said, “Returning after a six-month gap, the anticipation around the show has been building, and we're thrilled to bring it back with an exciting line-up of guests and right at the start of the festive season. This season is all about ‘har type ka funny,' with Kapil truly living up to his title as the comedy king. We're excited to bring audiences fresh moments, unexpected surprises, and, above all, more reasons to make ‘Hasi Ka Tyohaar’ a celebration for everyone.”

On Wednesday, the makers shared an exciting promo on social media, writing, “Dhol, nagaada sab bajege, kyunki Hansi Ka TyoHAHAar ab Netflix pe sajega! Dekhiye The Great Indian Kapil Show, Season 5 from 26th September, raat 8 baje, only on Netflix.” The promo reflects a festive vibe, with Kapil Sharma leading the much-loved team of Sunil Grover, Krushna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda, Archana Puran Singh, and Navjot Singh Sidhu, all dressed in traditional attire and adding to the celebratory mood.

The “Great Indian Kapil Show Season 5” will premiere on Netflix from 26th September. With Kapil Sharma leading the show, the much-loved team of Sunil Grover, Krushna Abhishek, Kiku Sharda, Archana Puran Singh, and Navjot Singh Sidhu will return with their trademark humor and fun.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Sep 16 (IANS) Actress Salma Hayek took a moment to celebrate her Mexican heritage, reflecting on how deeply her roots have shaped the way she loves, celebrates and stays connected to family.

Hayek took to Instagram to share a video montage featuring a myriad of images of herself celebrating her Mexican heritage. She also honoured the women who came before her and said she carries a piece of home with her wherever she goes.

“I wouldn’t change being Mexican for anything in the world. It’s in the way I love, the way I celebrate, the way I show up for my family, and the way I carry home with me no matter where I am,” Hayek wrote in the caption section.

She added: “Today I celebrate Mexico, my roots, and all the women who came before me and made me who I am.”

Hayek started her career in Mexico with starring roles in the telenovela Teresa as well as the romantic drama Midaq Alley. She was then seen in Hollywood with appearances in films such as Desperado, From Dusk till Dawn, Wild Wild West, and Dogma.

The actress' portrayal of painter Frida Kahlo in the biopic Frida made her the first Mexican actress to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress.

She then shifted her focus on producing while starring in the action-centered pictures Once Upon a Time in Mexico in 2003, After the Sunset and Bandidas.

She achieved further commercial success with the comedies Grown Ups, Grown Ups 2 and The Hitman's Bodyguard, and lent her voice for the animated Puss in Boots, Sausage Party and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.

Hayek also earned critical acclaim for her performances in the dramas Tale of Tales, Beatriz at Dinner and House of Gucci. She played Ajak in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film Eternals, which emerged as her highest-grossing live action film.

She has been cited as one of Hollywood's most powerful and influential Latina actresses as well as one of the world's most beautiful women by various media outlets. She is married to business magnate François-Henri Pinault, with whom she has a daughter.

--IANS

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Mumbai, Sep 16 (IANS) Actress Ameesha Patel opened up about her love for Indian festivals and traditional attire. She shared how the festive season fills her with happiness and positivity.

Talking about her enthusiasm for celebrations, the ‘Gadar’ actress told IANS that she enjoys Indian festivals throughout the year, particularly Diwali, Ganesh Chaturthi and Navratri.

“I feel very good. I love Diwali, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Navratri all year round. I really enjoy it,” she said.

The actress also spoke about the positive energy she associates with festivals, describing them as a time for fresh beginnings and new opportunities. “Positive vibrations, a new start of good work. I feel everything will be good,” Ameesha added.

Sharing her thoughts on wearing traditional Indian outfits during festive celebrations, the actress said dressing up in ethnic attire adds to the joyful atmosphere. “It’s an atmosphere of happiness. And if Indians don’t wear it in Indian festivities, it’s no fun.”

Meanwhile, Ameesha Patel recently made headlines after her parents’ home in Mumbai’s Churchgate area was reportedly burgled, with gold and diamond jewellery valued at around Rs 5 lakh allegedly stolen from the residence.

The Marine Drive police arrested a 40-year-old domestic worker, identified as Seema Ghate from Palghar, in connection with the alleged theft. She was subsequently produced before a court, which remanded her to police custody until September 15.

According to the police, Ghate had been working as a domestic helper at Ameesha’s mother Asha Patel’s residence for around one-and-a-half years. The investigation began after Asha Patel filed a complaint, following which the police detained Ghate.

Police said the alleged theft of a bangle took place in January 2026. Asha Patel reportedly suspected Ghate’s involvement and had allegedly been asking her for the past five to six months to admit to the theft and return the jewellery.

--IANS

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