Kolkata, June 13 (IANS) Trinamool Rajya Sabha member Sagarika Ghose expressed scathing criticism of the early morning police raid at the residence of party General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee to track his absconding aide.

In a social media statement, shared by the Trinamool Congress on its social media handle, Ghose described the arrival of the police and central paramilitary forces personnel at Abhishek Banerjee’s residence at 3 a.m. as a reflection of the "political vendetta, intimidation and mental torture".

She had also claimed that this action was prompted by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s intention to deliberately target those opposition leaders who have refused to succumb to its pressure tactics.

"3 AM Saturday June 13. Police arrive at Abhishek Banerjee’s @abhishekaitc’s Kalighat residence in Kolkata. 5 AM: Disaster Management team called in to break open locks. 6.30 AM: Search begins, from second floor to terrace, lasting 90 minutes. Outcome? Seizure report says: NIL. No evidence. No wrongdoing. NOTHING. Just political vendetta, intimidation and mental torture. Operation Lotus is targeting every leader who refuses to surrender to the BJP’s diktat. Disgraceful attack on an opposition leader. VINDICTIVE, CONNIVING, scumbag LOW LIFE tactics. SHAME," Ghose's social media post said, also attaching a copy of the search report of the police.

The raid and search operations at Abhishek Banerjee’s residence were conducted by a joint team of West Midnapore district police, Kolkata Police and central armed police forces (CAPF) personnel to trace his executive assistant Sumit Roy, in a case registered against him at Salboni Police Station in West Midnapore.

On Sunday, Abhishek Banerjee is supposed to appear at the headquarters of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for interrogation in its ongoing probe in the case of mismatches in the signatures of some Trinamool legislators on a crucial resolution on appointments for key Opposition posts in the Assembly.

The CID had also summoned Trinamool legislator Kunal Ghosh in the same case at its headquarters on Sunday, and sources said that the investigating officers are likely to interrogate Banerjee and Ghosh together.

--IANS

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Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu), June 13 (IANS) A steep rise in the prices of key chemical fertilisers and pesticides over the past few weeks has sparked concern among farmers across Tamil Nadu, with cultivators warning that the increased input costs could severely impact agricultural operations ahead of the crucial Aadi Pattam and Kuruvai cropping seasons.

According to farmer organisations, the prices of several commonly used fertilisers have witnessed substantial increases between late May and June.

A bag of potash now costs Rs 2,200 compared to Rs 1,800 earlier, while super phosphate's price has risen from Rs 600 to Rs 800. The price of complex fertilisers such as factomfos has jumped from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,100, and ammonium sulphate has increased from Rs 950 to Rs 1,400.

The surge in fertiliser prices comes at a critical time when farmers in the Cauvery delta and other agricultural regions are preparing for seasonal sowing operations.

Farmer representatives fear that the additional burden could push many small and marginal cultivators into debt.

K. Balakrishnan, Secretary of the agricultural wing of Kausika Neerkarangal, said changes in the fertiliser subsidy mechanism have left farmers increasingly vulnerable to fluctuations in international markets. He noted that until a few years ago, the Union government maintained Maximum Retail Prices (MRP) for most fertilisers and absorbed global price increases through subsidies to manufacturers.

"Farmers were largely insulated from international price volatility under the earlier system. Now, only urea and DAP continue to receive extensive price support, while subsidies for several other fertilisers are fixed. As a result, any increase in global prices is directly reflected in retail prices paid by farmers," he said.

Farmer organisations have urged the Centre to restore stronger subsidy support and stabilise fertiliser prices. They have also called on the Tamil Nadu government to increase Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for agricultural produce and promote farming practices that reduce dependence on chemical inputs.

In addition, agricultural groups have sought greater emphasis on sustainable farming methods. They have recommended training programmes to help farmers produce low-cost organic inputs on their own farms and called for agricultural extension officers to be trained by institutions such as the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU).

Agriculture Department officials acknowledged the increase in fertiliser prices, attributing it largely to prevailing global market conditions. While direct price regulation remains difficult, officials said awareness campaigns under the ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ launched on June 1 are encouraging farmers to adopt organic alternatives and reduce reliance on chemical fertilisers.

With sowing activities set to gather pace in the coming weeks, farmers say timely intervention is essential to prevent rising cultivation costs from affecting agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods.

--IANS

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New Delhi, June 13 (IANS) The Fencing Association of India (FAI) on Saturday successfully organized the AI Video Referral System & Video Analysis Workshop at New Delhi, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of technology-driven officiating and performance analysis in fencing.

The workshop, believed to be the first-ever initiative of its kind in the world, was conducted as part of the Fencing Association of India's comprehensive preparations for the Asian Senior Fencing Championship 2026, which India will host. The programme was also designed to facilitate the knowledge upgradation and capacity building of referees, coaches, technical officials, event managers, and sports administrators associated with the sport.

Recognizing the growing role of technology in modern sports, the workshop focused on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in video referral systems and advanced video analysis. Participants received practical training and live demonstrations on how AI-powered tools can support decision-making, improve officiating accuracy, and enhance athlete performance assessment.

The workshop focused on the growing role of technology in modern fencing officiating, with discussions centred on AI-powered decision support systems for referees, real-time video analysis and replay technology, and video referral protocols and operational procedures. Participants also explored data-driven performance evaluation methods and the integration of artificial intelligence into fencing competitions, with the overarching aim of enhancing fairness, consistency and transparency in officiating.

The workshop featured advanced video review and tracking systems, enabling participants to gain hands-on experience with emerging technologies that are increasingly becoming an integral part of international sporting events.

FAI officials highlighted that the initiative aligns with the federation's vision of delivering world-class competition standards during the Asian Senior Fencing Championship 2026. By investing in the education and upskilling of technical personnel, the federation aims to ensure that Indian fencing remains at the forefront of innovation and international best practices.

The programme represents a historic step toward modernizing fencing officiating and competition management while strengthening India's readiness to host major international fencing events. It also demonstrates FAI's commitment to creating a technologically advanced sporting environment that benefits athletes, officials, coaches, and spectators alike.

--IANS

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Chennai, June 13 (IANS) Actress Nivetha Pethuraj has now shared a video clip of a cake cutting ceremony organised by the unit of Megastar Chiranjeevi's #Mega158 to celebrate the occasion of her completing 10 years in the film industry.

Nivetha Pethuraj, who made her debut with director Nelson Venkatesan's 'Oru Naal Koothu', completed 10 years in the film industry recently. The unit of director Bobby Kolli's upcoming action entertainer, tentatively being referred to as #Mega158 and featuring Chiranjeevi in the lead, organised a cake-cutting ceremony on the sets to mark the occasion.

Now, Nivetha Pethuraj has shared the video clip of the cake cutting event on her Instagram page, which shows the actress feeding cake to her fellow team members including actress Anaswara Rajan.

It may be recalled that the unit had only recently wrapped up its schedule in Pollachi in Tamil Nadu.

Taking to his X timeline to share an update on the film, director Bobby Kolli had said,"An electrifying schedule of #Mega158 has been successfully completed in Pollachi, some spectacular moments that are shaping up beautifully. More exciting updates on the way... #ChiruBobby2 Produced by #VenkatKNarayana @KvnProductions Megastar @KChiruTweets #AnaswaraRajan @Nivetha_Tweets @MusicThaman @vijaykartikdop @AntonyLRuben @artkolla @LohithNK01 @saranyapotla."

For the unaware, this schedule had begun in Pollachi only last week. Megastar Chiranjeevi and the main cast members of the film participated in this schedule during which key scenes of the film were shot.

For the unaware, actress Anaswara Rajan was recently welcomed on board the unit of the film by its makers.

Taking to their X timeline, KVN Productions, the firm producing the film, had said, "A new wave of charm joins the MEGA storm. Welcoming the lovely #AnaswaraRajan to the world of #Mega158. #KVNTeluguDebut - #ChiruBobby2 Launched Grandly. A @dirbobby Film. Megastar @KChiruTweets #VenkatKNarayana @MusicThaman @vijaykartikdop @AntonyLRuben @artkolla @KvnProductions."

The makers have already announced that ace music director Thaman will be scoring music for this film and that popular cinematographer Vijay Karthik Kannan, known for his impressive work in films like 'Jailer', 'Daaku Maharaj', and the upcoming 'Jailer 2', will be its cinematographer.

Art direction for the film is being handled by Kolla Avinash and editing is by Antony Ruben.

The film has been in the news ever since the time it was first announced on Chiranjeevi's birthday last year. Only recently, Megastar Chiranjeevi had released a video that showed him sweating it out in the gym to get into shape for the role he plays in the eagerly awaited film.

Taking to his X timeline to share the video, Chiranjeevi had said, "Every day is another opportunity to push beyond limits… Charged up and excited for another memorable journey with my dear @dirbobby for #Mega158. Opening Ceremony on May 21st."

Megastar Chiranjeevi is joining forces once again with successful filmmaker Bobby Kolli for a high-voltage entertainer backed by the prestigious KVN Productions and produced by Venkat K Narayana.

The footage Chiranjeevi shared showed him pushing boundaries with relentless intensity. It gave an indication of the transformative effort the star was investing to achieve a powerful new look for the role.

The poster released by the makers to announce the project had an axe splitting a wall open, with traces of blood seen in the cracks on the wall. The poster had the tagline "The blade that set the bloody benchmark.’

This is the second time that director Bobby is working with Megastar Chiranjeevi. The two had earlier worked together on action entertainer 'Waltair Veerayya'.

--IANS

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New Delhi, June 13 (IANS) England’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup have suffered a setback after training equipment being transported to the team’s base in Kansas City was reportedly stolen, said a report.

The incident is understood to have occurred while equipment was being transferred from England's pre-tournament training base in Florida to Swope Soccer Village in Kansas City, where the team is set to start training once they land on Saturday.

Local police confirmed that the case has been opened as a theft investigation.

"We are investigating a possible theft of equipment from a team vehicle that arrived in Kansas City with items missing this evening," they said in a statement, as reported by the BBC.

"The investigation is ongoing. Two subjects of interest were taken into custody pending further investigation."

A range of footballs and boots are believed to have been taken as the vehicle being used to transport equipment was broken into, according to the BBC report.

The alleged incident has occurred only days before England's World Cup campaign gets underway, with Thomas Tuchel's men due to face Croatia in the Group-stage clash on Wednesday in Dallas.

However, local police may have identified a number of suspects to interview while England's officials hope for minimal disruption to their World Cup build-up as they look to get their campaign off to a flying start.

England manager Thomas Tuchel and his squad will touch down in Kansas City on Saturday afternoon, with training equipment already being shipped in to make sure everything is in place for the team's arrival.

England will be among the favorites to lift the trophy and will be desperate to send out a statement when they come up against Croatia in a repeat of the 2018 World Cup semi-final fixture.

--IANS

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Quetta, June 13 (IANS) As violence against civilians escalates across Balochistan, leading human rights organisations on Saturday brought to light the extrajudicial killing of one civilian and the enforced disappearance of two others allegedly at the hands of Pakistani forces.

Human rights body Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) revealed that the dead body of 28-year-old Saddam was dumped on Friday in the D-Baloch area of the Turbat region in the Kech district.

“The circumstances surrounding his death have raised serious concerns among local residents and human rights observers. Such incidents continue to inflict severe suffering on affected families and the wider society, deepening grief, fear, and uncertainty while leaving people with unanswered questions and a prolonged search for justice,” the BYC stated.

“The killing of Saddam is yet another tragic addition to the ongoing pattern of violence and human rights abuses in Balochistan. Families across the region continue to endure the pain of losing their loved ones while being denied justice,” it added.

Condemning the extrajudicial killing, the BYC said that the repeated occurrence of such incidents reflects a deeply alarming situation in which civilians remain vulnerable and affected families are left to bear the burden of grief and uncertainty.

The rights body called on international human rights organisations, journalists, and international institutions to take serious notice of this incident and the broader human rights abuses in Balochistan.

Highlighting the atrocities against civilians in Balochistan, human rights body Baloch Voice for Justice (BVJ) alleged that another two students -- 19-year-old Shukrullah and 20-year-old Zubair Baloch – were forcibly disappeared by Pakistani forces on June 4 from the Dalbandin area of the province.

The rights body noted that the families of the victims continue to endure uncertainty and distress while awaiting information about their fate.

Expressing solidarity with the affected families, the BVJ reiterated that enforced disappearance is a grave violation of fundamental human rights and the rule of law.

“The continued disappearance of civilians deepens fear and insecurity in Balochistan. Every individual has the right to liberty, due process, and protection from arbitrary detention. The voices of the families seeking truth and justice must be heard,” it noted.

--IANS

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Patna, June 13 (IANS) A criminal injured in a police encounter in Bihar’s Patna district succumbed to his injuries on Saturday, while two policemen were wounded during the exchange of fire, officials said.

According to the police, a criminal identified as Mohammad Haider was shot and injured during retaliatory firing late on Friday night. He was admitted to Paras Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries during treatment.

Patna (East) City SP Parichay Kumar stated that the incident was related to the abduction and attempted robbery of a youth under the pretext of buying or selling a mobile phone through an app.

A group of youths had allegedly taken the victim near Manichak village and were attempting to rob him of his mobile phone and cash when the police reached the spot after receiving information about the incident.

“Two of our police personnel were injured during the exchange of fire with the criminals. One criminal was also injured and later died during treatment. The case is linked to a robbery attempt involving a mobile phone transaction through an app,” SP Parichay Kumar said.

During the encounter, the criminals reportedly opened indiscriminate fire on the police team. Rahul Kumar, Additional SHO of Masaurhi police station, sustained a bullet injury to his thigh, while ASI Sanjay Kumar was shot in the hand. Both injured officers are currently undergoing treatment at AIIMS Patna and are stated to be out of danger.

Mohammad Haider, who was injured in the retaliatory firing by the police, was initially taken to Punpun PHC and later shifted to PMCH, Max Hospital, and finally Paras Hospital, where he died in the early hours of Saturday.

Police officials said that all six accused involved in the incident have been identified. Following the encounter, intensive raids and search operations have been launched across the area.

SP Parichay Kumar stated that the remaining accused would be arrested soon. The police have intensified search operations in and around the area and assured that strict action would be taken against those involved to prevent such incidents from recurring.

--IANS

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New Delhi, June 13 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended birthday greetings to Union Minister Piyush Goyal, praising his contribution to strengthening India's trade and commerce sectors and advancing the country's vision of self-reliance.

"Birthday greetings to Union Minister Shri Piyush Goyal Ji. He is making a great contribution in boosting trade and commerce, thereby strengthening our self-reliance and making India prosperous. Praying for his long and healthy life", the PM said in a post on X.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also conveyed his wishes, highlighting Goyal’s role in furthering the government's development agenda.

"Birthday greetings to Union Cabinet Minister, Shri Piyush Goyal. Your hard work and commitment as the Minister of Commerce and Industry have served effectively in strengthening Modi Ji's vision of a strong and prosperous India. Wishing you good health and a long life," he said.

BJP President Nitin Nabin also extended his greetings, saying: "Heartfelt birthday greetings and best wishes to Union Minister Shri Piyush Goyal. I pray to the Almighty for your good health and long life."

Union Minister Prahlad Joshi took to X to wish Goyal and lauded his leadership in driving India’s economic growth.

"Warm birthday greetings to Hon’ble Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal Ji. Your visionary leadership, tireless work ethic and steadfast commitment to India's economic progress have been instrumental in driving growth, strengthening global trade manufacturing and creating new opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs. Your efforts continue to shape a stronger, more self-reliant India. Wishing you good health, happiness and continued success as you serve the nation with distinction and dedication," Joshi said.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also extended her greetings, stating: "Heartfelt birthday greetings and best wishes to the Hon'ble Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal. Your visionary leadership and tireless efforts in taking the nation's industrial development, trade, and economic progress to new heights are truly exemplary. I pray to Lord Venkateswara Swamy for your excellent health and well-being."

Goyal has held several key positions in the Union government over the years. He previously served as the Leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha and has headed important ministries, including Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Textiles, Railways, Finance, Corporate Affairs, Coal, Power, New and Renewable Energy, and Mines.

--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, June 13 (IANS) Actor Vicky Kaushal, on Saturday, shared a heartfelt note expressing his deep admiration for legendary singer Gurdas Maan.

The actor recalled how he grew up listening to his songs and learning from his presence. Vicky called every moment spent with him a blessing. Describing him as the “GOAT,” the ‘Uri’ actor said he will always remain a lifelong fan and is forever grateful for the inspiration Gurdas Maan has given him. Sharing photos with him, he wrote, “Growing up on his songs, learning from his presence. Every moment with him feels like a blessing. For me, he is and always will be the GOAT. Forever fan, forever grateful. Gurdas Maan Saab. @gurdasmaanjeeyo.”

The first candid picture shows Vicky Kaushal sitting on the floor with his head resting on Gurdas Maan’s lap, while the two share a warm smile. The picture captured a heartfelt moment of affection and admiration between them. The next photo shows them posing together.

To note, Gurdas Maan was among the distinguished guests at Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif’s wedding in Rajasthan. During the celebrations, he blessed the couple and expressed his affection for their pairing by performing a special live rendition of his popular song “Teri Jodi Jeeve” in their honour.

Last year, Vicky Kaushal took to social media to express his admiration for Gurdas Maan’s track “Main Hi Jhoothi” from the album Sound of Soil. Known for his strong connection to Punjabi culture and music, Vicky had shown his appreciation by calling the iconic singer “evergreen” in a heartfelt post.

Gurdas Maan, Indian singer, songwriter, and actor primarily associated with Punjabi music and films, came into national prominence in 1980 with the song “Dil Da Mamla Hai.”

Over the years, he has recorded more than 34 albums and written over 305 songs. In 2015, he collaborated with Diljit Dosanjh on the track “Ki Banu Dunia Da” for MTV Coke Studio India. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential Punjabi musicians of all time.

--IANS

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Mumbai, June 13 (IANS) Actor Sonu Sood recently took a ride on the Vande Bharat Express and shared how the experience brought back memories of his early struggling days.

The actor recalled a time when train journeys were far from comfortable, often traveling without reservation while pursuing his dream of becoming an actor in Mumbai. Praising the remarkable improvements in Indian Railways, Sonu said the journey reflected the country’s progress while also reminding him of how far he has come in his own life. Taking to Instagram, the ‘Dabangg’ actor shared his video and wrote, “Thank you, Indian Railways, for upgrading the everyday journey and quality of life of millions of common Indians.”

In the clip, he could be heard saying, “We are travelling by Vande Bharat and all I can say is, it's a phenomenal growth in terms of railways and the kind of quality, the kind of food that's been served, the staff, the kind of love that they give. This train journey reminded me of my first journey. I studied in Nagpur and left for Mumbai to become an actor.”

“Maximum time reservation was not there. So, just like that, we used to get long folded computer papers, then at night, we used to sleep on the newspaper and pass the time. But today, after so many years, when we are travelling by train again, all I can say is that Indian railways have grown up leaps and bounds in terms of quality, it's amazing. I don't think we need to sleep on the newspaper near the toilet because, you know, it's very, very organised now. Just want to thank you for the great work that you've been doing. Keep doing such amazing work. All this is very important for the development of our country. All the best,” added Sonu.

A few days ago, Raveena Tandon skipped a flight and travelled on the Vande Bharat Express instead, praising the government’s “Make in India” initiative. She expressed pride in India’s modern railway infrastructure. She also tagged Railway Minister, the Ministry of Railways, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to show her appreciation.

For the caption, Raveena wrote, “AALL IN A DAYS WORK!!!!! #hanumanjichalisa Mode on! Early mornings are lit! So proud of our #vandebharattrains And living the #makeinindia experience! Just fabulous ! @ashwini.vaishnaw ji @railminindia Shri @narendramodi ji.”

--IANS

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Mumbai, June 13 (IANS) Hollywood actress Hailee Steinfeld has shared how becoming a mother has shifted the way she thinks about self-image and the example she hopes to set for her daughter.

The Sinners actress, and husband Josh Allen announced the arrival of their baby girl on April 2, reports people.com.

During her Ask Me Anything session through her newsletter community, Beau Society, one fan asked Steinfeld, “What's something your daughter has already taught you, even though she's still so little??”

“Where to start! One of the most unexpected things I've learned from my daughter is the importance of modeling unconditional self-love."

She continued, “I'm obviously still learning what that looks like in practice, but during these early stages of motherhood, specifically with raising a daughter, I've realized that how I see myself is how she'll see herself. It's that simple.”

Steinfeld and the Buffalo Bills quarterback shared news of their daughter's arrival in a Substack post titled "Special Delivery.”

“Our baby girl has arrived!!” Steinfeld wrote in the newsletter at the time.

“We're feeling incredibly grateful and blessed and savouring these early moments. Thank you so much for the love and well wishes.”

The couple first shared that they were expecting their first child in December.

In a newsletter published in honor of her 29th birthday, Steinfeld included a video as the final entry in a roundup of her 29 favorite moments from the previous year. The clip showed the actress posing in the snow while cradling her baby bump as Allen kissed her stomach.

The pair later shared the video in a joint Instagram post, where Allen commented, “I love you.”

Earlier this year, Allen spoke about his excitement about becoming a father during a January press conference.

“It's something that I will take with great pride. And we're going to have to figure things out on the go, just like anything else,” he said.

“But this is the most important thing I'll ever be in my life, being a dad," he added.

"And I know I love being a football player, and I love being a quarterback for the Buffalo Bills. But I'm looking forward to this one.”

Steinfeld previously shared her own thoughts on the transition to parenthood in late February.

In a Beau Society blog post titled “Getting ducks in a row,” she reflected on preparing to welcome her child into the world and the emotions that came with that milestone.

“While tuning in, I've experienced this surreal, full-body awareness that our world is about to expand in beautiful ways," she wrote.

"We're getting ready to meet someone we already love so much. I've racked my brain for words to describe that feeling, and I don't have them yet. Maybe that's the point. For now, I'm blessed to be settling into the feeling," she continued.

Steinfeld and Allen were first romantically linked in the spring of 2023 and married in Santa Barbara, California, on May 31, 2025.

--IANS

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Mumbai, June 13 (IANS) Actress Disha Patani received a special birthday wish from Tiger Shroff’s mother, Ayesha Shroff, who shared a heartfelt message for the actress on social media.

Along with expressing her affection for Disha, Ayesha also promised that the two would embark on many more travels together. On Saturday, Tiger’s mother took to Instagram to wish the actress. She shared her images, captioning them as “Happpppppiest birthday Deeeeshu!!! God bless you!! @dishapatani.” In the photos, the two are seen smiling as they pose together for the camera. The pictures speak volumes about the close bond they share.

Taking to the comments section, the Baaghi actress wrote, “Awww love you my aunty, i miss us travelling.” Replying to her, Ayesha said, “@dishapatani let’s do a lot of that this year!!”

Interestingly, Disha Patani shares a warm and close bond with Tiger Shroff’s mother, Ayesha Shroff, and sister, Krishna Shroff.

For the unversed, Disha and Tiger were linked in a much-talked-about rumored relationship for several years before quietly parting ways in 2022. During that time, they were often seen together at events, holidays, and family gatherings. Even though there was a lot of speculation, both actors always called each other “good friends” or avoided confirming anything directly.

Even after her breakup with Tiger Shroff, Disha Patani has continued to maintain a warm and friendly bond with Krishna Shroff. During her appearance on Siddharth Kannan’s show, Krishna spoke about her bond with Disha, saying that their friendship remains strong even though Disha is no longer in a relationship with her brother. Krishna had said, “In today’s time, when women are very quick to bring each other down, she and I try and lift each other up. She is the person who would be there for me no matter what the situation. She has no judgmental bone in her body, so I have opened up about all aspects of my life to her. She is that friend who will be there for me and vice versa.”

Disha and Tiger first appeared together in the music video “Befikra.” They later shared screen space again in the 2018 film “Baaghi 2.”

--IANS

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