Bhopal, Oct 1 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Hemant Khandelwal on Thursday hit back at Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi over his allegations against the BJP government during his visit to Balaghat, asking him to explain what Congress governments did for tribal areas during their long tenure in power.

LoP Rahul Gandhi visited Balaghat on Thursday and met tribal families, including those affected by the deaths of children.

After interacting with the tribal families, LoP Rahul Gandhi raised questions regarding healthcare, malnutrition, education and basic facilities in the tribal region and alleged that the BJP government had failed to address their problems.

Responding to the remarks, Khandelwal said LoP Rahul Gandhi was welcome to meet people and listen to their concerns, but should also answer questions about the Congress party’s record in tribal areas.

“LoP Rahul Gandhi should also give an account of the Congress’ long rule,” Khandelwal said.

He added that while Congress was raising questions about problems in tribal areas today, it should also explain what concrete efforts its governments had made for development, healthcare, education, roads and basic facilities in those regions.

Khandelwal said several basic problems continued to exist in tribal areas despite the Congress having been in power for years and asked why the party had failed to resolve them during its tenure.

The BJP state president also referred to the issue of Naxalism in Balaghat, recalling the killing of former minister and senior Congress leader Likhiram Kanwre by Naxalites.

He asked LoP Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party to explain what concrete steps the Congress government had taken to deal with Naxalism at the time and whether he had met Kanwre’s family and understood their suffering.

Khandelwal said the Congress could not escape responsibility merely by raising questions about the BJP government.

“Congress cannot escape its responsibility merely by asking questions,” he said, adding that people also wanted to know what had been done during the party’s tenure, what outcomes its policies produced and why these problems persisted despite Congress being in power for years.

He said the BJP government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, had strengthened security in Naxal-affected areas while accelerating development work.

Khandelwal said the government was working to expand roads, schools, healthcare facilities and other basic infrastructure in remote areas.

--IANS

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Kolkata, Oct 1 (IANS) A judicial inquiry commission constituted by the West Bengal government to investigate alleged institutional corruption during the previous Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress regime has started an investigation against former West Bengal Transport Minister Snehasis Chakraborty.

The investigation relates to allegations that, despite not being a farmer, Chakraborty obtained a loan of Rs 85 lakh from an agricultural cooperative society in the state during the previous regime.

It is also alleged that he facilitated another loan for one of his relatives from the same agricultural cooperative society by using his influence as a then state Cabinet minister and ruling party legislator.

Chakraborty, a three-time Trinamool Congress legislator from the Jangipara Assembly constituency in Hooghly district between 2011 and 2026, was defeated in the Assembly elections earlier this year by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Prosenjit Bag by less than 1,000 votes.

He is currently associated with the Ritabrata Banerjee-led “rebel but majority” faction in Trinamool Congress.

Trinamool Congress legislator Kunal Ghosh, from the Beliaghata Assembly constituency in Kolkata, first alleged the loan from the agricultural cooperative society.

Kunal Ghosh is associated with the “original but minority” faction of Trinamool, led by former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee.

Kunal Ghosh alleged that although only farmers were eligible to receive loans from agricultural cooperative societies, Chakraborty secured a loan from the Singti Agricultural Cooperative Society by posing as a farmer, violating lending norms.

He also questioned whether Chakraborty had been repaying the loan from the Singti Agricultural Cooperative Society.

After Kunal Ghosh flagged the issue, society employees Swapan Patra and activist Ramesh Patra were arrested.

The state government-appointed judicial panel has now begun investigating the matter.

According to sources, the panel will soon collect relevant documents from the cooperative society.

On July 14, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced the formation of a judicial commission to investigate allegations of institutional corruption during the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government between 2011 and 2026.

Former Calcutta High Court judge Justice Biswajit Basu (Retd) heads the commission.

A senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer is supervising the investigation.

An Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer is handling the commission's administrative work, while a West Bengal Revenue Service officer oversees its technical aspects.

--IANS

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Patna, Oct 1 (IANS) Eight police personnel and a chowkidar posted at Mufassil Police Station have been suspended following an inquiry into alleged discrepancies and manipulation of facts in an FIR related to a liquor case.

The action followed an investigation that reportedly found evidence of serious negligence and discrepancies in how the case was handled.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Syed Imran Masood ordered the immediate suspension of the eight police personnel and the chowkidar.

The SP also sent a recommendation to the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) to suspend Mufassil Police Station SHO and Police Inspector Rajesh Kumar.

The action has caused concern within the police department and prompted a detailed review of the circumstances surrounding the case.

According to the SP, police received information about the alleged distortion of facts while registering liquor-related cases within the Mufassil Police Station area.

The Circle Police Inspector conducted an initial inquiry, which reportedly found the involvement of Sub-Inspectors Rajesh Kumar Sharma and Nurain Ansari.

The Circle Police Inspector suspended both officers on September 26.

The DSP (Headquarters) was subsequently tasked with conducting a detailed investigation.

The inquiry team visited the police station, examined CCTV footage and official records, and questioned personnel involved in the raid.

Investigators reportedly found evidence of discrepancies in the facts recorded in the FIR and subsequently identified the involvement of additional police personnel.

The suspended personnel are Sub-Inspectors Rajesh Kumar Sharma, Nurain Ansari and Virendra Kumar; Constables Mannu Kumar, Prashant Kumar (QRT Hasanpur), Nilesh Kumar Paswan, Suraj Kumar and Vinod Singh Yadav.

Mufassil Police Station chowkidar Krishnadev Paswan was also suspended in the case.

Additional SHO Mithilesh Kumar Kunal has been assigned charge of Mufassil Police Station following the action against the personnel.

The recommendation regarding SHO Rajesh Kumar will now be considered at the DIG level.

The inquiry has brought renewed focus to a liquor seizure conducted by Mufassil Police on September 18 in the diara area of Sitacharan village, located across the Ganga.

During the operation, police reportedly seized country-made mahua liquor and transported it to the police station by boat.

Questions were subsequently raised about how the case was handled, particularly because an FIR reportedly had not been registered even days after the seizure.

A video purportedly related to the liquor seizure later circulated on social media, prompting further scrutiny of the police action.

--IANS

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Shimla, Oct 1 (IANS) The Lawrence School, Sanawar, in Himachal Pradesh, will celebrate its 179th Founder’s Day with a three-day programme beginning on October 3, bringing together students, faculty, parents and the extended Old Sanawarian community from across India and overseas.

Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Chief of the Naval Staff, will be the chief guest at the 179th Founder’s Trooping of the School Flag Ceremony on October 5.

Admiral Swaminathan assumed charge as the 27th Chief of the Naval Staff on May 31.

The Founder’s Day celebrations will mark another milestone in the journey of one of the world’s historic residential educational institutions.

Founded on April 15, 1847, by Sir Henry Lawrence and Lady Honoria Lawrence, Sanawar began with just 14 boys and girls living under canvas on the Kasauli hills before the first buildings were completed.

Over nearly 18 decades, the school has evolved into a distinguished co-educational residential institution while retaining its traditions, values and strong sense of community.

Located in the hills of Solan district, Sanawar’s residential environment has traditionally combined academic learning with sports, outdoor activities, cultural pursuits and community living.

Its long-standing traditions have played an important role in shaping generations of Sanawarians, with the school’s ethos emphasising not only academic development but also character, leadership, discipline and participation beyond the classroom.

Founder’s Day remains one of the most significant occasions on the school calendar, bringing together current students and faculty with parents, alums and members of the wider Old Sanawarian community.

The three-day programme will reflect this enduring legacy through a mix of sporting events, cultural activities, exhibitions, special assemblies and traditional ceremonies.

The concluding day on October 5 will begin with the Founder’s Day Special Assembly, followed by the much-awaited 179th Founder’s Trooping of the School Flag Ceremony with Admiral Swaminathan as the chief guest.

The program will also include the Headmaster’s School Report, the presentation of the Founder’s Prizes, an address by the chief guest, and the 179th Founder’s Exhibitions.

--IANS

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Milwaukee, Oct 1 (IANS) Canada has warned that global steel overcapacity is putting domestic producers under severe pressure, with International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu arguing that maintaining a strong steel industry has become essential to national sovereignty and defence.

Sidhu said the issue was being discussed at the G20 trade ministers' meeting in Milwaukee as governments grapple with excess capacity, distorted supply chains and pressure on domestic manufacturing.

“Of course, you know, our steel industry is under tremendous stress,” Sidhu told reporters on the sidelines of the G20 Trade Ministers’ Meeting.

“And as you all understand, without a steel industry, you won't have a defence industry.”

Canada, he said, has taken measures to protect its domestic producers because of overcapacity elsewhere in the world.

“We've taken actions to protect our industry, because of some of the overcapacity around the world,” Sidhu said.

He said Canada was not alone in confronting the problem and pointed to measures taken by the United Kingdom and European Union.

“I think we need to find a solution,” he said.

Sidhu also raised concerns about steel products being dumped into markets, saying such practices were putting additional pressure on industries already dealing with disrupted supply chains.

“There are some countries out there that, you know, with supply chains the way they are, the dumping of certain steel products is not helpful,” he said.

The minister did not identify the countries he was referring to.

Sidhu said discussions among trade partners were focused on protecting workers and maintaining industrial capacity.

“Part of that is the conversation with closed doors, of how we can support each other, how we can support our workers, and how we can support the steel industry, frankly,” he said.

The Canadian minister linked the debate directly to national sovereignty.

“I think for sovereignty, you need a steel industry,” Sidhu said.

“You need a steel industry in your country to, to push up and, and ramp up your defence industry, and that's what we're focused on in Canada.”

The comments underscored the growing overlap between trade policy, industrial policy and national security as governments seek to secure domestic capacity in strategic sectors.

Sidhu said steel was also needed for major Canadian projects outside the defence sector, including energy infrastructure and the electricity grid.

“The projects that we're building in energy or vertical minerals or an electricity grid, we're doing well with our steel industry so they can, you know, build more domestically,” he said.

He also linked the effort to Canada's economic relationship with the United States.

Canada and the US have highly integrated manufacturing supply chains, including in steel and automobiles. Sidhu said separately during the press conference that workers on both sides of the border were experiencing some of the same pressures and argued that the two countries should work together.

“I strongly believe the auto sector is stronger when we're able to work together,” he said.

Steel overcapacity has emerged as a recurring issue in international trade discussions, with major producing and consuming economies debating how to respond to excess production, subsidies and the movement of lower-priced steel across markets.

--IANS

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Milwaukee, Oct 1 (IANS) Canada has urged the United States to work with it to address pressures on the deeply integrated North American auto industry, with Canadian International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu saying workers on both sides of the border are facing similar challenges.

Sidhu said he raised the auto sector and interconnected supply chains during talks with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on the sidelines of the G20 Trade Ministers’ Meeting in Milwaukee.

The Canadian minister said he had encountered auto workers in Milwaukee who had been laid off. He drew a parallel with job losses in his own constituency, which has operations of automaker Stellantis.

“I came across some workers here in Milwaukee that were laid off in the auto sector,” Sidhu told reporters.

“And I represent the constituency of where we have Stellantis, hundreds of folks laid off in the auto sector.”

Sidhu said the experience underscored the extent to which the Canadian and American automobile industries were connected.

“I strongly believe the auto sector is stronger when we're able to work together,” he said.

“And so that was my message that, you know, you're facing some of the same challenges that we're facing. Let's help each other and let's work through something.”

Sidhu said the discussion with Greer came as G20 trade ministers examined broader pressures on global supply chains.

“Here we're talking a lot about supply chains,” he said, pointing to steel and food among the issues being discussed.

Sidhu said supply chains between Canada and the United States were particularly intertwined in the automobile industry.

He said Canada's minister responsible for relations with the United States was leading those discussions.

“My job as the international trade minister is to continue to support Canada diversification efforts and work with counterparts and colleagues all around the world to increase our access to new markets,” he said.

Asked separately about US tariffs, export restrictions and prospects for reducing tensions between the two neighbours, Sidhu said he had known Greer for some time and respected him.

“I think there's an understanding,” Sidhu said.

He said the two had previously worked together in international trade forums, including the World Trade Organisation and G7.

Sidhu said many of the economic pressures facing Canada and the United States were also confronting other G20 economies.

“I think it's important when you look at some of the problems that we face, and this is what G20 economies are dealing with, the prices, the impacts on energy, the impacts on inflation, the impacts on supply chains and critical minerals,” he said.

“And so many of us are dealing with the same challenges, and I think it's imperative that as partners, we continue to work together to find solutions for our citizens.”

Sidhu declined to identify the most significant remaining differences in the Canada-US negotiations.

“Of course we want to close the gaps, that's the whole point of negotiations,” he said.

But he made clear that Ottawa was seeking an agreement that protected Canadian workers and industries.

“I think at the end of the day, you want a good deal for your workers and industries and Canada won't accept anything less than that,” Sidhu said.

“When you negotiate with Canada, it has to be mutually beneficial,” he added.

Canada and the United States have one of the world's most closely integrated automotive manufacturing systems, with vehicles and components routinely crossing the border during production. The sector supports manufacturing and supply-chain employment in both countries.

--IANS

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Milwaukee, Oct 1 (IANS) Canada wants to help build India as its economy expands, with energy, critical minerals and aerospace emerging as major areas for deeper economic cooperation between the two countries, Canadian International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu said Thursday.

Sidhu said India's growing energy requirements and its efforts to diversify supply chains offered significant opportunities for Canada.

“India is growing at 7 per cent year over year. India requires 70 per cent more energy by 2035. We have that energy in Canada,” Sidhu told reporters on the sidelines of the G20 Trade Ministers’ Meeting in Milwaukee.

The Canadian minister said his country was expanding its liquefied natural gas capacity and expected to emerge as one of the world's leading LNG exporters.

“We have over a handful of LNG projects in various phases of development. Meaning within the next five years, we'll be a top five exporter of LNG,” he said.

But Sidhu said the potential economic partnership went well beyond energy.

“It's about critical minerals with India; it's about aerospace. So as India builds, Canada wants to be there to help build India as well,” he said.

Sidhu visited India about 10 days ago and met Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal in Mumbai. The two countries are currently negotiating a trade agreement, with the fifth round of negotiations scheduled to begin in Ottawa on Monday.

The minister was careful not to disclose details of the negotiations.

“Well, negotiations are ongoing, so I'll be very careful how far I go. I think it's very clear that we don't negotiate through media,” he said.

But he identified areas where Canada believes the two economies can work together.

“It's about collaboration. It's about cooperation. Where can we help India?” Sidhu said.

Critical minerals could become a particularly important part of that partnership as India expands its automobile industry and seeks to strengthen supply chains for electric vehicles and batteries.

“India's looking to diversify some of the supply chains if you look at critical minerals,” Sidhu said.

“India has a growing auto sector and for EVs and batteries, Canada is the only country in the Western hemisphere that has every single element to make an electric battery. And so there is something that we can add.”

Sidhu also pointed to investment flows between the two countries.

He said a recent investment summit in Toronto attracted Indian investors and about 100 asset managers managing roughly USD 130 trillion in assets. The event generated about USD 500 billion in commitments, according to the minister.

“So we have a lot of projects that we can work on together,” Sidhu said. “So energy, critical minerals, aerospace and others.”

He also said Canada wanted Indian companies to invest in Canadian mining and energy projects.

“We also welcome Indian investors in Canada to invest in our mining projects, to invest in our energy projects, so we can grow together,” he said.

The relationship, Sidhu said, should extend beyond the movement of goods.

“And so part of that is, yes, it's trade, but it's investments and beyond that in terms of research and collaboration as well,” he said.

India and Canada have been rebuilding their economic engagement alongside renewed high-level political contacts. Trade negotiations have gathered pace as both countries look to expand market access and strengthen investment ties.

--IANS

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Dubai, Oct 1 (IANS) MI Emirates have completed their squad for the fifth season of the International League T20 (ILT20), following the Season 5 Player Auction held in Dubai on Thursday.

The franchise has added Sri Lanka international Kusal Perera for USD 40,000. England international Chris Jordan was also signed for USD 170,000, adding considerable international and T20 experience, while England batter Jonny Bairstow was the franchise’s final pick of the auction at USD 80,000. They join a team that already featured pre-auction signings Nicholas Pooran, Rashid Khan, Romario Shepherd and Sherfane Rutherford.

Among the headline deals, Fazalhaq Farooqi returns for USD 380,000, the most expensive player in ILT20 history, while Muhammad Waseem was brought back through the Right to Match (RTM) option for USD 210,000, the highest price ever paid for a UAE player at the ILT20 auction. Zahoor Khan also returns for USD 30,000.

Farooqi, Waseem and Zahoor have been part of MI Emirates since the inaugural ILT20 season and will now continue with the franchise for a fifth consecutive season, underlining their long-standing association with the team.

The franchise further exercised its RTM option on Afghanistan international Allah Ghazanfar, bringing the highly rated young spinner back for Season 5.

The completed squad brings together a mix of international experience, T20 expertise and emerging talent as MI Emirates prepare for Season 5.

MI Emirates will begin their ILT20 Season 5 campaign in November 2026.

International League T20 (ILT20) is sanctioned by the Emirates Cricket Board and features six franchise teams.

The ILT20 allows a higher number of overseas players than most T20 leagues, with up to nine overseas players permitted in a playing XI. Each team must also include at least one player from the UAE and one player from an Associate Member nation in the playing XI.

The franchise had earlier in the day appointed Mark Boucher as Head Coach of MI Emirates for ILT20 Season 5.

Boucher returns to the Mumbai Indians setup, bringing with him a strong connection to the organisation and a wealth of experience across international and franchise cricket.

Boucher first joined Mumbai Indians as Head Coach in 2023, before taking charge of MI New York, where he guided the team to the championship title in 2025.

A former South African international and accomplished wicketkeeper, Boucher brings extensive playing and coaching experience, along with a strong understanding of the culture and values that connect the organisation’s teams around the world.

MI Emirates Squad – Season 5:

Nicholas Pooran | Rashid Khan | Romario Shepherd | Sherfane Rutherford | Fazalhaq Farooqi | Muhammad Waseem | Zahoor Khan | Kusal Perera | Chris Jordan | Jonny Bairstow | Allah Ghazanfar | James Coles | Lizaad Williams | Asa Tribe | Mohamed Shafeeq | Zain Ul Abidin | Jordan Thompson | Ross Adair | Wasim Akram | Faridoon Dawoodzai | Sanjay Krishnamurthi | Raizal Nadir Nather Shah

--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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Los Angeles, Oct 1 (IANS) The Beatles legend, Sir Paul McCartney is not walking away from the possibility of his late Beatles bandmate John Lennon being an “idiot”. The veteran guitarist and singer said that John “could be a complete idiot” while reflecting on their infamously tense early‑70s period.

Paul recently spoke with director Judd Apatow, when he was asked why Lennon seemed irritated by his post‑Beatles direction.

The filmmaker asked, “Was it a joyfulness to it while he's doing primal scream and you're having fun? What do you think got under his skin about it?”.

Responding to the same, The Beatles legend said, about his Wings era, “Well, I don't know. I think maybe he expected more from me. He expected something different from me, and I wasn't doing that. I was just doing ‘madcap’”.

He went on, “I always thought John was very cool, and I still do. But he could be a complete idiot, over some things”.

While the two had their share of clashes, Paul said that John;s behaviour never changed how he viewed him.

He said, “It wouldn't matter, as it didn't matter, what he said or did, because I'd known him since I was 15, and so he was like this mad guy I knew, and I really looked up to him”.

The 84-year-old music legend formed Wings in 1971 with his then-wife Linda McCartney and Denny Laine, just a year after Let It Be, the final album by The Beatles.

Wings, which also included Denny Seiwell and former Moody Blues guitarist Denny Laine, went on to release seven albums, including the acclaimed 1973 LP Band on the Run.

John Lennon publicly dismissed McCartney’s early solo work, famously saying in 1971 that he couldn’t imagine working with him again.

--IANS

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Chennai, Oct 1 (IANS) The makers of director Niranjan's upcoming film 'Mr Bhaarath', featuring actor Bhaarath in the lead, on Thursday announced that they were postponing the release of their film to a later date.

Passion Studios, one of the production houses producing the film, took to its social media timelines to share a statement to announce the postponement of the film's release.

In the statement, the film's makers said, "A little pause before the big theatrical laughter therapy! Mr. Bhaarath was all set for a grand theatrical release on October 1. With a slew of promising films gearing up for release on the same date, we have decided to postpone the theatrical arrival of Mr. Bhaarath."

They went on to add, "As pure cinema lovers, we are exhilarated about these releases and extend our heartfelt wishes to all the films for a blockbuster theatrical run. The new arrival date of Mr. Bhaarath will be announced soon."

The makers concluded the statement saying, "We can't wait to present this rip-roaring entertainer to you all soon, packed with laughter, fun and unforgettable theatrical moments. With love, Team Mr. Bhaarath."

The film, which has got a positive buzz in the industry, will be a rom-com that will revolve around the character of a simpleton called Mr Bhaarath.

For the unaware, Bhaarath and Niranjan are two well known YouTube creators who are now in the process of making their debut feature film 'Mr. Bhaarath'. The film's shooting was completed in July last year.

Producer Sudhan Sundaram of popular production house Passion Studios, had, at the time of the film's shooting being wrapped, said, “The team may be young, but their clarity and commitment have been truly commendable. As producers, we’re usually skeptical about whether a fresh crew can match the demands of a full-scale film production. But Niranjan and his team completely surprised us—not only was the narrative engaging during scripting, but they also completed the entire shoot on schedule, with neat execution and professional planning. As producers, we are so happy to be collaborating with the highly energetic and entertaining team, and can’t wait to present the super-cool theatrical entertainer for the fans.”

Presented by director Lokesh Kanakaraj and produced by Sudhan Sundaram, Lokesh Kanagaraj, and Jagadish Palanisamy under the banners of Passion Studios, G Squad and The Route, Mr Bhaarath is now ready for release.

Apart from Bhaarath, the film will also feature a host of actors including Samyuktha Viswanathan, Bala Saravanan, Nidhi Pradeep, R. Sunder Rajan, Linga, and Adithya Kathir in pivotal roles.

On the technical front, the film has cinematography by Om Narayan, editing by Dhivakar Dennis and music by Pranav Muniraj. The film’s visual tone has been enhanced by Art Director Bhavna Govardan. Costumes for the film have been designed by Navadevi Rajkumar while Suren G and Azhagiyakoothan have handled the department of sound. Choreography for the film is by Azhar and Amrin Abubakar is the Stunt Coordinator.

--IANS

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Chennai, Oct 1 (IANS) Actress Malavika Mohanan, who plays the female lead in ace director Thiagarajan Kumararaja's eagerly-awaited film, 'Pocket Novel', has now penned a heartfelt note thanking her film unit including her co-actor Vijay Sethupathi, who, she has pointed out, was the most caring and giving co-actor.

Taking to her Instagram page to pen the post, the actress wrote, "Some films become a little world of their own while you’re making them, and I feel incredibly lucky to have been a part of this one."

The actress said that she had learned that the people one made films with were more important than simply making films.

"You spend months with an entire team, sharing so many hours every day, getting to know each other, eating together, talking for hours, having good days and bad days, and going through emotional highs and lows together. Before you know it, they become your home away from home," she explained.

Thanking Vijay Sethupathi, she wrote, "@actorvijaysethupathi thank you for being the most caring and giving co-actor. Having been through this journey with you, I cannot imagine having been a part of this process with anybody else. You have been so encouraging, sweet and yet have always created such a comfortable space for me to explore and get it right no matter how long it took or how hard it was."

She went on to add, "We’ve been a part of two films together- ‘Petta’ and ‘Master’, but never got to share screen space with each other so this one has been long due. And what a beautiful one it’s been."

To her director Thiagarajan Kumararaja, she said, "TK you absolute absolute cool cat. You have such a rare way of looking at people and the world, and it’s been the experience of a lifetime working with you, but more importantly getting to know you as a person and a friend. As a maker, you are such a beautiful combination of strong and kind completely amazing and I am forever in awe of how you do what you do."

She then ended the note saying, "@ezhilmadhi16 thank you for being the sweetest anchor through it all, holding the fort down for everyone with so much love and genuineness and care and for being the loveliest friend. Oh, and also for sharing the same taste in clothes, textiles and all things pretty which makes pottering around with each other so much more fun. Pocket Novel- you’ve been so much more than just a film. See you in cinemas soon."

--IANS

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Mumbai, Oct 1 (IANS) Actress Divya Khossla has questioned Govinda's rumoured girlfriend Komal Rani’s sindoor during her recent visit to Lalbaugcha Raja with the 'Partner' actor.

In a strongly worded social media post on Thursday, Divya asked whether they realize the importance of ‘sindoor’ in Hinduism. She further urged them to stop using religion for their personal agenda.

Refreshing your memory, netizens noticed that Komal did not have sindoor on her forehead when she arrived to seek blessings for Lalbaugcha Raja. However, after she had offered her prayers, Komal was seen with sindoor around her forehead, leading to speculations around a possible secret wedding.

A section of netizens reasoned that the Sindoor could have been a result of the religious rituals at the pandal. They argued that Komal may have touched her forehead to Bappa’s feet for blessing during the darshan, leaving the mark on her forehead.

Now, questioning Govinda and Komal's understanding of the importance of sindoor, Divya wrote on her Insta Stories, “Whatever we do in our personal life is definitely our choice however atleast for the sake of keeping our society clean it’s v important ki ‘Hum Samaj ka Daayra maintain Karein’. (sic)"

She further asked them, "A certain girl goes with u to a religious place, bows in a manner that sindoor comes in her maang clearly giving enough material to various media to cover the couple in such a manner …. Like really… whom are u kidding?? and then goes and comments on intimate details of your personal life ….. Do u think this is a joke?"

“Atleast stop using our religion for your agenda… do u even understand the importance of a Sindoor?? Which is the most powerful symbol of a married Hindu woman.. Extremely disappointed with the celebs supporting such acts," she concluded.

Before this, Divya had called out Govinda and Komal for their public appearance at Lalbaugcha Raja. She also extended her support to Govinda’s wife, Sunita Ahuja.

--IANS

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