Houston, June 24 (IANS) After a record-breaking outing in which he scored two goals in the 5-0 rout of Uzbekistan in the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Houston, Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo said what mattered more to him was that the team achieved its objectives."

Ronaldo scored in the 6th and 39th minutes and set several FIFA World Cup records, and got Portugal's campaign up and running.

After the match, he said, "I'm very happy. But for me, the most important thing is our work and the confidence we showed. The team performed really well and improved a lot. As the saying goes, every cloud has a silver lining.

"Obviously, speaking personally, records are always nice, but my goal is always to help the national team achieve its objectives," he added.

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez was very satisfied with the manner in which his players responded after their disappointing 1-1 draw with Congo DR in their opening match.

"This was the response we had in the dressing room. There are times when you need a game like the first one to grow in the tournament. Today we saw a team with the same attitude and commitment, but with greater maturity because it was no longer the opening match. I’m very pleased with the result," said Martinez.

It was Ronaldo who started Portugal's response on Tuesday.

After seeing the likes of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Erling Haaland hit the headlines at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Ronaldo had to respond, and the Portugal legend reached lift-off in Houston in fine fashion.

Playing in his sixth World Cup finals, the 41-year-old got the ball up and running against Uzbekistan with a brilliant close-range effort following Joao Cancelo's cross.

It was a history-making goal — Ronaldo became the first player to score in six World Cups, and he also became the second-oldest scorer in tournament history behind Cameroon's Roger Milla. The relief on Ronaldo's face after he struggled in the opener against Congo DR was palpable.

Inspired, the veteran netted his second with a well-taken strike into the corner just before half-time for his 10th World Cup goal to become Portugal's leading scorer in the global finals, ahead of the legendary Eusebio with nine.

In between, Ronaldo played a role in Portugal's second goal, acting as a clever decoy for Nuno Mendes's brilliant first-half free-kick. A fourth came via an Uzbekistan own goal midway through the second half, with Rafa Leao putting the icing on the cake in the 87th minute.

Having got their first World Cup goal against Colombia, Uzbekistan thought they found the scoresheet again with a stunning effort from distance from Azizjon Ganiev. The goal was ruled out for a foul, however. The debutants' campaign hangs in the balance.

--IANS

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New Delhi, June 24 (IANS) Just days ago, Cristiano Ronaldo was the target of relentless criticism as he failed to score in Portugal's opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The Portugal captain endured a frustrating, goalless opener against DR Congo, prompting social media to erupt with jokes, memes, and questions about whether the 41-year-old still had what it takes to perform on football’s biggest stage.

For many, age had finally caught up with the legendary forward.

However, Ronaldo had other ideas.

Against Uzbekistan at Houston Stadium on Tuesday, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner delivered the perfect response, scoring twice in the first half and rewriting the history books in the process. It also propelled Portugal to a thumping 5-0 win against Uzbekistan.

The message was clear early in the match.

Just six minutes into the contest, Joao Cancelo surged down the right flank and drilled a low cross into the penalty area. Ronaldo was exactly where great goal scorers are expected to be. The Portuguese icon calmly swept home from close range to give his side the lead and send a warning to his critics.

But he wasn’t finished.

In the 39th minute, Ronaldo struck again, doubling both Portugal’s advantage and his personal tally for the night. The celebrations carried an extra edge, as if the veteran striker was determined to remind the football world that class does not fade with age.

The first goal was far more than just another World Cup strike.

It made Ronaldo the first footballer in history to score in six different FIFA World Cups — Germany 2006, South Africa 2010, Brazil 2014, Russia 2018, Qatar 2022, and now USA-Mexico-Canada 2026.

It also made Ronaldo, at 41 years & 138 days, the second-oldest goalscorer in the history of the World Cup behind Roger Milla of Cameroon, who scored a goal in 1994 at the age of 42 years & 39 days.

Twenty years after making his World Cup debut as a 21-year-old, Ronaldo continues to achieve feats no player before him has managed.

His latest milestone came barely 24 hours after Lionel Messi became the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history, ensuring that football’s two greatest stars of the modern era continue to raise the bar even in the twilight of their careers.

The contrast with Portugal’s opening match could not have been sharper. The player who was mocked, doubted, and written off after one quiet performance suddenly looked unstoppable. Every sprint, every touch, and every finish seemed fuelled by the criticism that followed him into Houston.

As the goals went in, social media’s mood changed dramatically. The jokes disappeared. The criticism faded. In its place came admiration.

“Ronaldo, take a bow,” read countless posts from fans and pundits alike.

For one unforgettable evening, the Portuguese superstar reminded everyone why he remains one of football’s greatest-ever competitors.

The critics questioned him after one match.

Ronaldo answered with two goals, a historic record, and yet another chapter in an extraordinary legacy.

Result:

Portugal v Uzbekistan

C. Ronaldo 6', 39'

N. Mendes 17'

A. Nematov 60' (OG)

R. Leão 87'.

--IANS

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Mumbai, June 24 (IANS) In a significant administrative overhaul, the Maharashtra state government on Tuesday ordered a major reshuffle within its police force. A senior IPS officer, Vishwas Nangre Patil—widely recognised as Mumbai’s "Singham" for his tough stance on crime—has been appointed as the new Police Commissioner of Nagpur, the state's second capital.

Nangre Patil, who was previously serving as the Additional Director General of Police (ADG) in the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), replaces the outgoing chief, IPS Singhal, who has been moved to the ACB as ADG.

In another notable shift, senior IPS officer Archana Tyagi, frequently referred to as the "Lady Singham," has also been reassigned in this round of postings.

The reshuffle involves a direct swap of roles and promotions among several Director General (DG) and Inspector General (IG) level officers.

IPS Vishwas Nangre Patil transferred from ADG (Anti-Corruption Bureau) to Police Commissioner, Nagpur City. IPS Sanjay Verma transferred from Director General (Judicial and Technical) to Director General, Police Housing and Welfare Corporation. IPS Archana Tyagi shifted from Director General (Police Housing and Welfare Corporation) to Director General, Judicial and Technical.

IPS Dattatray Shinde was promoted as Inspector General. He was transferred as Additional Police Commissioner (Mira-Bhayander-Vasai-Virar) to the State Crime Record Department (CID), Pune, as the Inspector General of police.

IPS Sanjay Shintre transferred from Deputy Inspector General (Cyber Mumbai) to Additional Police Commissioner, Mira-Bhayander-Vasai-Virar.

The restructuring also impacts several Superintendents of Police (SP) and Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCP) across key districts.

The government has transferred Nitesh Rohan, Superintendent of Police (SP) of Hingoli, to Nanded SP, Abhishek Kumar, SP Nanded to DCP Pune city, Shrimant Lad, Additional SP, Khamgaon (Buldhana), to SP, Hingoli. Rupali Ambure, DCP, Dial 112 (Navi Mumbai), transferred to SP, Maharashtra State Security Corporation, Shashikant Satav, DCP, Nagpur City, to DCP, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Ramesh Dhumal, DCP Amravati City, to DCP, Nagpur City, Prashant Mohite, DCP Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, to DCP Dial 112 (Navi Mumbai).

Piyush Jagtap, Commandant, SRPF Group 17 (Chandrapur), was transferred as Additional SP, Khamgaon (Buldhana), Narayan Shirgaonkar, Commandant, SRPF Group 13 (Gadchiroli), to Commandant, SRPF Group 19 (Ahilyanagar). Pranjali Sonawane, SP, Crime Investigation Department (CID) Amravati, to DCP, Amravati City.

The government sources said that the administrative shake-up comes as an effort to streamline law enforcement, strengthen urban policing, and bring seasoned officers into critical operational and administrative roles ahead of upcoming state challenges.

--IANS

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Chandigarh, June 24 (IANS) The Punjab Police have achieved a success in 152-day old 'Gangstran Te Vaar' operation by recovering a cache of 713 illegal arms from the possession of gangsters' accomplices, Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said.

The Punjab Police's Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) on Tuesday also recovered 218 magazines with a total of 2,009 rounds of ammunition.

"The gangsters heavily lure youngsters to carry their illegal works, and offering them illegal weapons is one of them. The Punjab Police have recovered a huge cache of ammunition from time to time, but the weapons recovered from the henchmen of gangsters led to stopping various crimes across the state," an official statement quoting the DGP said.

The illegal weapons have been recovered during various search operations and drives launched by the AGTF.

Since the launch of 'Gangstran Te Vaar', 92 illegal arms, ammunition and magazines were recovered from Amritsar Rural, while a total of 201 have been recovered in Amritsar city, 155 in Ferozepur and 243 in Tarn Taran.

Last month, the police intensified search for illegal weapons, leading to a huge recovery of weapons.

The DGP added, "The weapons recovered range from sophisticated arms to country-made pistols. The AGTF is performing great work in coordination with other departments and in the coming days the crackdown on gangsters and their operations will continue across the state."

Recently, Amritsar Commissionerate Police busted a cross-border illegal arms smuggling module with the arrest of eight accused, carrying 11 sophisticated pistols and eight cartridges.

Preliminary investigation reveals that the accused were in contact with people involved in the supply of illegal weapons.

The recovered arms were intended for distribution among criminal elements and for use in extortion, violent crimes and other unlawful activities.

The Commissionerate Police Ludhiana's Crime Investigation Agency Staff team has also achieved a major success by arresting two people in possession of illegal weapons.

--IANS

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Mysuru, June 24 (IANS) Gulbarga Mystics scored their maiden victory on Tuesday, trouncing Shivamogga Yodhas by 95 runs in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 tournament in Mysuru.

A turbo-charged batting display in the Power-play during which the Mystics smashed 93 runs, and a heroic all-round performance by Kranthi Kumar (31 of 22, 2/8) did the magic for Gulbarga, who posted a challenging 232/8. Gautam Mishra (3/34) and Ronit More (2/7) also shone with the ball as Gulbarga restricted Shivamogga to 137.

To complete an outstanding day, Kranthi Kumar returned to claim two decisive wickets for just eight runs in three overs to put Gulbarga on the highway to a comfortable victory.

Kumar first dismissed Harshil Dharmani (23 off 17) on the last ball of his first over. Then he got rid of captain Smaran Ravichandran (23 off 23) on the first ball of his next to effectively end Shivamogga’s ambitions of pulling off a high-scoring chase.

For Shivamogga Yodhas, opener Luvnith Sisodia’s (30 off 14) early burst hardly mattered as the line-up could not cope with the mounting pressure. The match eventually petered out into a one-sided contest. It was Shivamogga’s second defeat in three matches.

Earlier, put into bat first, Gulbarga opener Lochan Gowda (47 off 21) and No.3 Prakhar Chaturvedi (45 off 19) set the early tempo with some aggressive strokes, and once in the saddle, they stepped up the pace to such an extent that a 300-run target was possible.

But Shivamogga’s medium pacer Bheem Rao Navale, who had gone for 18 runs in his first over, dismissed both Gowda and Chaturvedi in the space of 11 runs to firmly grab the initiative back.

Macneil Noronha (26 of 16) and captain Manish Pandey (22 off 11) stemmed further rot from setting in by adding an 18-ball 35 for the fifth wicket. But their run rate suffered as, at one stretch of play, there were no boundaries for 15 deliveries. Dhruv Prabhakar (13 off 14) supported Kranthi Kumar to close out the innings at a formidable total.

Brief scores:

Gulbarga Mystics 232-8 in 20 overs (Lochan Gowda 47, Prakhar Chaturvedi 45, Manish Pandey 22, Kranthi Kumar 31; Bheem Rao Navale 2-31, Naveen MG 2-44) beat Shivamogga Yodhas 137 all out (Luvnith Sisodia 30; Gautam Mishra 3-34, Ronit More 2-12, Kranthi Kumar 2-7) by 95 runs.

--IANS

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Amaravati, June 24 (IANS) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, along with his Karnataka counterpart D. K. Shivakumar, Telangana counterpart A. Revanth Reddy and Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Patil, will inaugurate the newly installed crest gates of the Tungabhadra Project on June 25.

They will participate in the inauguration ceremony and attend a public meeting at Hosapete in Karnataka.

The project, considered a lifeline for the states of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, has undergone a major transformation with the installation of new gates.

According to an official release here on Tuesday, work on installing all 33 gates, costing Rs 51 crore, has been completed.

Built 73 years ago, the Tungabhadra Project serves as a vital water source for lakhs of acres of agricultural land across Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.

Gate No. 19 was washed away during the floods in August 2024. To immediately prevent water wastage, a 'stop-log' gate was installed following the Andhra Pradesh government's initiative and Chief Minister Chandrababu's directives.

Acting on a report from the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) recommending the replacement of all spillway gates, the states of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka successfully completed the installation of new gates within six months, effectively revitalising the project.

The Tungabhadra Project plays a crucial role for Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana, providing irrigation water to lakhs of acres and drinking water to hundreds of villages.

In Andhra Pradesh alone, the Tungabhadra Project provides irrigation water to 1.46 lakh hectares. Water is supplied to the Kurnool, Kadapa, and Anantapur districts via the right canal.

Against this backdrop, the states of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka treated the project's safety as a matter of high priority and rapidly completed the installation of the gates.

A delegation from Karnataka had met Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu on Monday and invited him to attend the inauguration of the newly installed crest gates.

The delegation, comprising former Karnataka Minister N.S. Bosuraju, MLA Basavaraju, and MLC Basavanna Gowda, handed over the invitation to the Chief Minister.

Ahead of the inauguration ceremony, Telangana’s Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy on Monday directed officials to take steps to assert Telangana’s rights on using its share of the Tungabhadra river waters, and to prepare a comprehensive report on legal, technical, and administrative aspects of the state’s share of water from the river.

Uttam Kumar Reddy made it clear that there will be no compromise on using Telangana’s share of water from the Rajolibanda Diversion Scheme (RDS) on the Tungabhadra.

--IANS

ms/uk

London, June 24 (IANS) The Indian men’s hockey team started the London leg of their FIH Pro League European tour with a thrilling 4-3 victory over archrivals Pakistan at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre near London on Tuesday.

After a slow start in the opening quarter, India found their rhythm and went on to secure their third outright win of this Pro League season, thwarting a late scare by Pakistan. The victory moved India up to the seventh position in the points table.

Goals from Abhishek (22’), Nilakanta Sharma (24’), Sukhjeet Singh (40’), and Rajinder Singh (52’) guided India home in the high-voltage encounter.

The match began with both teams playing cautiously and trading early circle entries. Pakistan earned the first breakthrough in the 8th minute when Ahmad Nadeem capitalised on a penalty corner routine to make it 1-0. India immediately responded with aggressive attacks but struggled to find the goal-scoring touch.

In the final minute of the first quarter, India won three consecutive penalty corners. Still, Pakistan goalkeeper Ali Raza made a fine save against skipper Harmanpreet Singh's dragflick, which was the nearest India came to scoring off those back-to-back short corners.

India turned up the heat with quick passing in the second quarter to find an equaliser. In the 22nd minute, Dilpreet Singh's powerful shot was padded away by Raza, but Abhishek quickly pounced on the rebound to make it 1-1. Three minutes later, India won another penalty corner, where Nilakanta reacted the sharpest to the rebound and smashed the ball through the goalkeeper's legs to put India ahead 2-1.

Goalkeeper Raza then stood tall for Pakistan later in the quarter, saving scoring attempts from penalty corners off the stick of Jugraj Singh in the 28th minute and Harmanpreet a minute later to keep the score 2-1 at halftime.

Pakistan increased their tempo in the third quarter, producing multiple circle entries, but the Indian backline held firm. Defender Amit Rohidas showed great composure to break up a dangerous two-on-one counter-attack led by Pakistan's Nadeem. India then extended their lead in the 40th minute when Abhishek set up Sukhjeet inside the circle, who produced a handsome finish to make it 3-1.

The final quarter was filled with late drama as Pakistan pushed hard to reduce the deficit. After the Indian defence blocked back-to-back penalty corners in the 51st minute, the strikers launched a swift counter-attack to earn a PC in the 52nd minute. In a clever routine, Harmanpreet acted as a decoy, allowing Rajinder to fire the ball past substitute goalkeeper Waqar, which made it 4-1.

Pakistan fought back immediately as captain Abu Mahmood (53’) scored from a penalty-corner flick through the legs of Indian goalkeeper Suraj Karkera to make it 4-2. Jugraj missed a chance from India's 11th penalty corner in the 56th minute, setting up a tense finish.

With just 14 seconds left on the clock, Pakistan’s Moin Shakeel (60’) scored on a rebound during a penalty-corner routine to make it 4-3, but India held their nerve in the final seconds to secure a hard-fought win.

--IANS

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Patna, June 23 (IANS) A tragic incident occurred on Tuesday in the Kumarbagh police station area of West Champaran district in Bihar, where three children lost their lives after allegedly being thrown into a canal following a domestic dispute.

According to the police and local reports, the incident occurred in Bhangaha village under the Kumarbagh police station limits.

The victim, Lalita Devi, alleged that her husband, Rambabu Yadav, had been harassing and assaulting her for a considerable period.

The couple had an argument on Tuesday morning after Lalita expressed her intention to visit her maternal home.

According to her statement, Rambabu Yadav allegedly took his wife and their three children to an isolated location near the Sugauli branch of the Tirhut Canal, nearly 1.5 km from their residence.

The woman alleged that she was pushed into the canal first. Despite the water depth and strong current, she managed to save herself.

She also alleged that the accused subsequently threw the three children into the canal.

The children, who included a six-year-old daughter, a four-year-old son, and a five-month-old infant girl, were swept away by the current.

After receiving information about the incident, police teams from Kumarbagh and Chanpatia police stations reached the spot and launched a search operation.

After several hours of rescue efforts, the bodies of all three children were recovered from the canal and sent for post-mortem examination.

According to a police official, the accused father fled the site after the incident.

Search operations and raids are being conducted to apprehend him.

The investigation is continuing, and further legal action will be taken on the basis of the victim's statement and the evidence collected during the inquiry.

The deaths of the three children have triggered grief and anger among local residents.

The incident has also drawn attention to the issue of domestic violence and family disputes that can escalate into severe tragedies.

Police officials have said that all aspects of the case are being examined and that appropriate action will be taken after the completion of the investigation.

--IANS

ajk/khz

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

Chennai, June 23 (IANS) The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has now cleared director Harish Durairaj's eagerly awaited comedy family entertainer, 'Con City', featuring actors Arjun Das and Anna Ben in the lead, for release with an U/A certificate.

Taking to its X timeline, Power House Pictures, the production house producing the film, wrote, "The cons are censored with a U/A. #ConCity certified and ready for release on June 26. A fun filled entertainer from @harish_durairaj.A @RSeanRoldan

musical. Starring @iam_arjundas @benanna_love @sakshivaidya99 @iYogiBabu #Vadivukkarasi #Akhilan. @powerhousepic in association with @Maaliandmaanvi

@kloutstudios and @SilverTreeOffl."

The makers had in May this year announced that shooting for the film had been wrapped up. They have already disclosed the characters played by Arjun Das, Anna Ben, Yogi Babu, Arul Doss, Abdul Razzak, Shahji Chen, Ponvannan, Sathanand, Rage Esakki, Madhan Dakshinamoorthy, Imman Annachi, Ramesh Thilak, Thambi Ramaiah and Bharadwaj Rangan in their film.

For the unaware, the film is inspired by a series of real life incidents and is slated to hit screens worldwide on June 26. Arjun Das, who plays an employee in the Electricity department in the film along with VTV Ganesh, has sported three get ups in the film.

Written and directed by Harish Durairaj, the film, apart from Arjun Das and Anna Ben, also features Yogi Babu, Vadivukkarasi, Imman Annachi and Akhilan in pivotal roles.

On the technical front, the film has music by Sean Roldan and cinematography by Aravind Viswanathan. Editing for the film is by Arul Moses A while production design is by Raj Kamal. Costumes in the film have been designed by Navaa Rambo Rajkumar while lyrics for the songs in the film have been penned by Mohan Rajan.

While the dances in the film have been choreographed by Santhosh, the fight sequences have been choreographed by Action Sandhosh.

--IANS

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Mumbai, June 23 (IANS) Some of the most prominent names from the entertainment world, actors R Madhavan, Mammootty, and singer Alka Yagnik were honored with the prestigious Padma Awards on Tuesday.

The ceremony, which took place at Rashtrapati Bhavan, honoured individuals from diverse fields for their noteworthy contributions to society.

Back in January, when the recipients of the Padma Bhushan were announced, Alka Yagnik shared the memorable moment with the netizens through a heartfelt note on social media that read, “I am deeply grateful to the Government of India for bestowing upon me the Padma Bhushan. After decades in the film and music industry, this honour feels both humbling and deeply emotional.”

Expressing her gratitude to all those who had been a part of her journey, she added, “My heartfelt thanks to the filmmakers, composers, lyricists, co-singers, musicians, technicians, press, media and every individual who forms the soul of our movies! This journey would not have been possible without you. To my friends, family, and listeners...your love has been my constant strength. This music, this journey, and this moment belong to all of us. Love, Alka.”

R Madhavan, who was awarded the Padma Shri for his contribution to the Indian cinama, had shared, “I accept the Padma Shri with profound gratitude and humility. This honor, bestowed upon me, is beyond my wildest dreams, and I receive it on behalf of my entire family, whose constant support and faith have been my greatest strength. This recognition is possible only because of the blessings of my mentors, the goodwill of my well-wishers, the love and encouragement of the public, and above all, the grace of the Almighty. Each of them has played an invaluable role in shaping my journey and guiding me toward this moment."

Along with these two Malayalam superstars, Mammootty was also awarded a Padma Bhushan by President Droupadi Murmu.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi even met with Mammootty and his actor son, Dulquer Salmaan, after the ceremony.

65 individuals were felicitated at the second Padma ceremony on Tuesday, with 2 Padma Vibhushan, 7 Padma Bhushan, and 56 Padma Shri awards.

On May 26, 66 people were honoured with Padma Awards during the first ceremony.

--IANS

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Chennai, June 23 (IANS) Malayalam superstar Mammootty, who received the prestigious Padma Bhushan award from President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday, has now thanked his audiences for their endless love, trust and support which he said had kept him "going every single day".

Mammootty Kampany, the production house owned by the actor, posted a video clip of the Malayalam superstar receiving the honour from the hands of President of India Droupadi Murmu on its Instagram timeline and wrote, "A moment of immense pride for Indian cinema. Our beloved Mammukka, receiving the Padma Bhushan from the Hon'ble President of India, a recognition for his extraordinary contribution to cinema spanning over five decades. A truly historic and emotional moment. #Mammootty #PadmaBhushan #MammoottyKampany."

Soon after, the production house posted a message from Mammootty on receiving the honour. In his acceptance message, Mammootty said, "Deeply ​Humbled and honored to be conferred with the Padma Bhushan. My sincere gratitude to the Government of India for this prestigious recognition."

He had gone on to add, "​An honor like this is a reflection of a five-decade-long journey that wouldn't exist without you, my incredible audience. Thank you for the endless love, trust, and support that keeps me going every single day. I dedicate this to the beautiful world of cinema and all of you."

Several celebrities from across the country had congratulated Mammootty when the awards were first announced in January this year. Notable among those who congratulated the Malayalam superstar was actor Kamal Haasan who penned a lengthy, heartfelt post in Tamil congratulating Mammootty.

Pointing out that they hadn't acted together in any films, Kamal Haasan, in his post, had said, "However, we have been admiring each other from afar. We critique each other when we meet in person. We have been nurturing a 'Kopperuncholar Pisiranthaiyar' kind of friendship akin for several years."

He further went on to add that he now felt that maybe they both could have met in person more often.

Kamal Haasan went on to observe that as a Mammootty fan, his expectation was that his fans should also be Mammootty's fans.

"My friend Mammootty has now become Padma Bhushan Mammootty. Congratulations to my friend," he wrote.

For the unaware, the 'Kopperuncholayar Pisiranthaiyar' relationship that Kamal Haasan referred to in his post is about the iconic friendship between Chola King Kopperun Cholan and the Pandya poet Pisiranthaiyar.

Although the Chola King and the Pandya poet never met each other, they both trusted each other wholeheartedly to the extent that when the Chola king chose to die, he asked for a seat to be prepared for the poet from his enemy kingdom, trusting that his friend from the rival kingdom would definitely accompany him even unto death.

Despite several people telling the king that the poet would not come, the king firmly trusted his friend to turn up. As expected by the king, Pisiranthaiyar did arrive but by then, the king had passed away.

Thanking the Tamil actor for his heartfelt wish, Mammootty had replied to his Tamil friend saying that they should catch up soon and "make up for the time we've lost!"

Taking to his X timeline to respond to Kamal's post congratulating him, Mammootty had said, "Thank you, dear Kamal, for those truly humbling words. You’re being too kind. And yes, let’s catch up soon and make up for the time we’ve lost (smiley face)."

--IANS

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Chennai, June 23 (IANS) Actress Trisha on Tuesday wished Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay a happy birthday and posted a picture of the cake cutting event that had happened on his birthday, a day earlier.

Taking to her Instagram page to post a picture of the birthday cakes presented to Vijay on his birthday, Trisha wrote, "To the person who makes it all worth it,HBD 00.00."

The "00.00" in her post, indicated that she had been among the first to wish him on his birthday on June 22, contrary to speculative media reports that had claimed that she hadn't wished the Chief Minister on his birthday.

Trisha's post also seemed to end speculation caused by media reports that claimed that she had unfollowed Chief Minister Vijay on social media platforms.

For the unaware, several celebrities from across the country including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, parliamentarian Kamal Haasan and actor Mohanlal had wished former actor and present day Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on his birthday on Monday.

Taking to his X timeline, Kamal Haasan in Tamil had said, " My heartfelt birthday wishes to Honorable Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam's Chief and my beloved younger brother Vijay, who has won the love of crores of hearts."

Actor and producer Raghava Lawrence, who only recently expressed his desire to join politics, too took to his X timeline to greet the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister.

He wrote, "Every year, I wish my Nanba (friend) a happy birthday. But this year it’s extra special and I’m happy to say, Happy Birthday to Honorable Chief Minister of Tamilnadu! @TVKVijayHQ"

While Prime Minister Modi, in his birthday message on X, said, "Birthday greetings to the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru C. Joseph Vijay Ji. I pray for his long and healthy life", the Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, in his greeting, said, "Wishing the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru Joseph Vijay, a very happy birthday. I wish you good health and success in all your efforts. I stand with you in defending the rights, dignity, and aspirations of the Tamil people, and in working together for the state’s progress."

For the unaware, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay, who was born on June 22, 1974, in Chennai, celebrated his 52nd birthday on Monday. Vijay, who was a popular star in Tamil cinema, formally entered politics in 2024 by launching the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). The party made its electoral debut in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections and emerged as the single-largest party in the state, winning 108 of the 234 seats.

--IANS

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