Kochi, June 7 (IANS) The house named 'Laughing Villa' in North Paravoor, a reflection of actor Salim Kumar's infectious humour and larger-than-life personality, has fallen silent.

The laughter and smiles that once filled the home of the celebrated actor have given way to grief as Malayalam cinema mourns the passing of one of its most beloved performers around 10:45 p.m. at a private hospital here on Saturday.

National Award-winning actor Salim Kumar, who entertained generations with his unmatched comic timing and later proved his brilliance in serious roles, passed away after a prolonged battle with health issues.

The 56-year-old actor had been undergoing treatment at Amrita Hospital in Kochi, where he was placed on ventilator support after doctors assessed his condition as critical.

A team of specialist doctors had been closely monitoring his condition and continuing treatment.

However, his health had been a concern for several years due to liver-related ailments.

Salim Kumar had earlier revealed that he was suffering from liver cirrhosis and clarified that it was not caused by alcohol consumption but was a hereditary condition.

He had also spoken about a family member suffering from a similar illness despite having no history of alcohol intake.

The actor had openly shared the emotional struggles that accompanied his health challenges, including periods of isolation and personal battles while coping with a long-term illness.

Salim Kumar's journey in Malayalam cinema was nothing short of remarkable.

Beginning his career through mimicry and comedy, he became one of the most popular comedians of his generation before successfully transforming himself into a versatile character actor.

Over a career spanning nearly three decades, he acted in around 120 films and directed three movies, leaving an indelible mark on Malayalam cinema.

From unforgettable comic characters in films such as Thenkaasipattanam, Ee Parakkum Thalika, Meesa Madhavan, C.I.D. Moosa, Kalyanaraman and Pulival Kalyanam to emotionally powerful performances in films like Achanurangatha Veedu and Adaminte Makan Abu, Salim Kumar displayed a rare ability to move seamlessly between humour and human drama.

His performance in 'Adaminte Makan Abu' earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor, a landmark achievement for an artiste who rose from the world of mimicry.

He also won Kerala State Film Awards and later ventured into direction, with his film 'Karutha Joothan' winning the Kerala State Film Award for Best Story.

Salim Kumar's demise has triggered an outpouring of grief from colleagues, fans and well-wishers across the state.

His close association with North Paravoor, the same hometown as Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, made his loss even more personal for the people of the region.

The actor's mortal remains will be kept at the Paravoor Town Hall on Sunday morning till noon for the public to pay their last respects.

Following this, the body will be taken to his residence, 'Laughing Villa', where the final farewell will be held.

Malayalam cinema has lost not just a comedian, but an artist who showed that laughter could carry emotion, truth and humanity.

The voice that made millions smile has fallen silent, but Salim Kumar's characters will continue to live on in the hearts of audiences.

--IANS

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Indore, June 7 (IANS) Bundelkhand Bulls registered another win on the trot in the women’s competition of the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026 as they defeated Royal Nimar Eagles by three wickets at Daly College, Indore, in a close encounter.

The opening stand was finally broken after a mix-up in the middle resulted in Yashashwini being run out for 28 off 27 balls. Despite the setback, Anushka continued to anchor the innings and brought up a well-deserved half-century.

However, the Bulls lost a couple of wickets in quick succession, allowing the Royal Nimar Eagles to fight their way back into the contest.

Just when Bundelkhand looked firmly in control, Anushka attempted to accelerate in the 15th over but mistimed her shot and was caught at long-on after a fine knock of 57 off 41 deliveries.

With the pressure mounting, Payal Balmik stepped up and shifted the momentum once again. She attacked from the outset, finding boundaries regularly and keeping the chase on track with a brisk 19 off 12 balls.

Royal Nimar Eagles stayed in the game thanks to an excellent spell from Dipti Singh, who removed Balmik at a crucial stage and added another twist to the contest. However, Muskan Biswas held her nerve in the closing stages and guided Bundelkhand Bulls over the line to complete a hard-fought victory.

Reflecting on the win, skipper Anushka said, “The atmosphere in the dressing room is positive, and all the players are charged up after the start we’ve had. Personally, I was happy with the way I batted. Of course, it would have been nice to stay till the end, but the most important thing was contributing to the team’s performance. Every innings is a learning experience, and I always look back and review what I could have done better. Our focus now is on carrying this momentum forward and giving our best in the upcoming matches.”

Chambal Ghariyals vs Bhopal Wolves

Chambal Ghariyals continued their impressive run in the women’s competition, defeating Bhopal Wolves to register their third win in as many matches in the Aditya Birla Group Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026.

The Ghariyals once again produced a strong batting performance, posting 153/7 in their 20 overs. Opener Kanishka Thakur continued her fine form at the top of the order, scoring a fluent 26 off 18 balls, while Jincy George made a valuable contribution of 17 off 25 deliveries.

The star of the innings, however, was captain Pooja Vastrakar. Leading from the front, she played a brilliant knock of 63 off just 35 balls, striking two sixes and several boundaries to power her side to a competitive total.

In reply, Bhopal Wolves endured a difficult start and found themselves struggling at 29/3 in 7.3 overs. The pressure continued to mount as wickets fell at regular intervals, preventing them from building any meaningful partnerships.

The Wolves never managed to recover from the early setbacks and were eventually restricted to 110/9 in their 20 overs, handing Chambal Ghariyals another convincing victory. Vaishnavi Singh, Aditi Tiwari, and Rachna Yadav picked up two wickets each.

--IANS

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Margao, June 6 (IANS) Veteran forward Grace Dangmei announced her retirement from international football on Saturday, bringing an end to a distinguished 13-year career with the Indian women's football team.

The announcement came moments after India defeated Bangladesh 3-1 in the final of the SAFF Women's Championship 2026 at the Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, reclaiming the regional title after a seven-year wait.

As the final whistle sounded, an emotional Grace embraced her teammates while celebrations erupted around the Indian camp. The victory provided the perfect farewell for one of the most influential players in Indian women's football.

Since making her senior debut in 2013, the 30-year-old represented India in 95 international matches and scored 24 goals. During her international career, she won three SAFF Women's Championship titles and two South Asian Games gold medals, becoming one of the most experienced figures in the national setup.

Grace was part of several important campaigns for India, including the Asian Games from 2014 to 2022, the AFC Women's Asian Cup, and the Olympic qualifiers. She also earned recognition for her performances in tournaments such as the 2016 South Asian Games, where she scored twice against Sri Lanka, and the 2016 SAFF Women's Championship final, where she found the net as India secured their fourth consecutive title.

At the club level, Grace featured for KRYPHSA, Sethu FC, and Gokulam Kerala in the Indian Women's League. She won the Emerging Player Award in the 2018 Indian Women's League and later helped Sethu FC lift the league title.

Her success continued with Gokulam Kerala, where she served as vice-captain and played a key role in the club's historic participation in the AFC Women's Club Championship. In 2022, she became one of the few Indian women footballers to sign a professional contract overseas when she joined Uzbek club FC Nasaf Karshi, helping the side win both the league and cup titles.

Her final international appearance ended on a memorable note as India defeated defending champions Bangladesh 3-1 in the SAFF Women's Championship final. Goals from Pyari Xaxa, Sanfida Nongrum, and Lynda Kom Serto secured India's record-extending sixth SAFF title, while Grace signed off her international career as a champion. India finished the tournament unbeaten, winning all four matches, scoring 18 goals, and conceding only once.

--IANS

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Jaipur, June 6 (IANS) The Ugandan woman who was admitted to an isolation ward at RUHS Hospital in Jaipur with suspected Ebola-like symptoms has tested negative for the virus.

The test report, received from the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, confirmed that she is not infected with Ebola, health officials said on Saturday.

The woman had arrived in Jaipur on Friday morning on an Air Arabia flight from Uganda via Sharjah, landing at Jaipur Airport at around 4.30 a.m.

During routine health screening at the airport, she displayed symptoms that raised concerns among medical officials, prompting immediate precautionary measures.

Following the screening, health authorities transferred the woman directly from Jaipur Airport's Terminal-1 to the dedicated isolation facility at RUHS Hospital.

She was kept under observation in a special critical care unit designated for suspected Ebola cases.

Hospital officials said that although the woman showed certain symptoms, her overall condition remained stable and she did not exhibit any severe health complications.

As per established health protocols, samples were collected and sent to the National Institute of Virology in Pune for detailed testing.

The report has now confirmed that the woman is Ebola-negative, ruling out fears of the deadly viral disease.

RUHS Superintendent Dr Anil Gupta had earlier clarified that Ebola infection could not be confirmed solely on the basis of symptoms and that laboratory testing was essential before drawing any conclusions.

Despite the negative report, the Rajasthan Health Department remains cautious and continues to monitor international arrivals as part of routine disease surveillance measures.

Airport screening systems and coordination among health agencies have been strengthened to ensure preparedness against any potential public health threat.

Medical experts note that while Ebola does not spread as rapidly as Covid-19, it is considered a highly serious disease with a high fatality rate.

Therefore, suspected cases are handled with utmost caution under international health guidelines.

With the negative test result, concerns over Rajasthan's first suspected Ebola case have been allayed, bringing relief to both health authorities and the public.

--IANS

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Ahmedabad, June 6 (IANS) A 12-year-old boy from Uttar Pradesh has regained normal urinary function after doctors at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital successfully carried out a rare and complex genital reconstructive surgery, more than a decade after he suffered severe injuries in a dog attack as an infant.

The boy, son of Agra-based farmer Suresh Yadav, was just 25 days old when a dog attacked him and severely injured his external genital organs.

According to hospital officials, the injuries had long-term consequences, causing serious difficulties in urination and affecting the development of his genital organs as he grew up.

After seeking treatment at several hospitals without finding a permanent solution, the family travelled to Ahmedabad and approached Civil Hospital in the hope of obtaining specialised care.

The child was admitted to the hospital on May 1.

Following a detailed examination, Dr. Rakesh Joshi, Medical Superintendent of Civil Hospital and Head of the Paediatric Surgery Department, found that both of the boy's testes were absent, the penis had retracted inward, and the urinary opening had become extremely narrow.

Despite the complexity of the condition, doctors proceeded with a major surgical intervention.

On May 6, a team led by Dr. Joshi and Professor Dr. Jayshree Ramji successfully performed a complex genital reconstructive surgery along with diagnostic laparoscopy.

The procedure was carried out under anaesthetic support, provided by Dr. Mrinalini and her team from the Department of Anaesthesia, under the supervision of Dr. Mrinalini.

Hospital officials said the surgery addressed multiple congenital and injury-related challenges resulting from the attack and was aimed at restoring normal urinary function and improving the child's quality of life.

Following the operation, the boy remained under close medical supervision for 14 days.

After doctors removed the urinary catheter, he was able to pass urine normally and without pain for the first time in many years, marking a significant improvement in his condition.

Seeing his son's recovery after years of suffering, Yadav expressed his gratitude to the Gujarat government and the medical team at Civil Hospital.

The case was highlighted by the state government on Saturday as an example of specialised treatment available through the state's public healthcare system.

Congratulating the medical team on the successful outcome, State Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said: "It is due to the modern infrastructure developed by the state government that patients from across India and the world are now receiving such complex treatments completely free of cost."

He also commended the doctors and healthcare staff involved in the procedure, describing the surgery as a notable achievement for the Paediatric Surgery Department at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital.

According to officials, the successful treatment showcases how patients from outside Gujarat are increasingly turning to Ahmedabad Civil Hospital for advanced and specialised medical care that may otherwise be difficult or expensive to access.

The hospital, one of the largest government-run healthcare institutions in the country, regularly receives referrals for complex surgical cases from across the country.

--IANS

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Kolkata, June 6 (IANS) The iconic Eden Gardens on Saturday witnessed another Md Shami special as the veteran pacer bagged an impressive hat-trick for Servotech Siliguri Strikers against Shrachi Rarh Tigers in the Bengal T20 League Season 3 match.

Shami dismissed Shahbaz Ahmed in the fourth ball of the 16th over, followed that up by claiming Rohit Kumar and Dipanjan Mukherjee in the fifth and sixth balls respectively to complete his hat-trick. Shami finished with 4 for 27 in 4 overs while Karan Lal (3-36) also impressed as Siliguri bagged a 24-run victory over Rarh Tigers.

Put into bat, Siliguri Strikers posted a challenging 208/4 in 20 overs, thanks to Vishal Bhati's brilliant 46-ball 86. His knock included 6 sixes and 5 fours. At the end, Pramod Chandila's quickfire 36 not out off 16 powered the team past 200. Chasing the target, Shrachi Rarh Tigers managed 184/9 in 20 overs. Shuvam Dey Sr (48 off 25) and Rahul Prasad (44 off 26) were the pick of the batters.

Earlier in the day's first match, Sobisco Smashers Malda outclassed Murshidabad Kings by seven wickets. Put into bat, after the match was reduced to 15-overs-a-side due to rain, Murshidabad Kings scored 134/7 in the allotted overs. Deepanshu (47 off 33) top-scored for his side. For Malda, Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal was the pick of the bowlers, bagging 3 for 18. In reply, Writam Porel (50 off 29) and Abhimanyu Easwaran (48 not out off 31) helped Malda chase the target down, scoring 138/3 in 13.4 overs.

Riding on a dominant batting display, Sobisco Smashers Malda registered a convincing seven-wicket victory over Murshidabad Kings in the Bengal T20 League Season 3 men's competition at Eden Gardens on Saturday.

After rain reduced the contest to a 15-overs-a-side affair, Murshidabad Kings batted first and posted a competitive 134/7. Deepanshu led the scoring with a brisk 47 off 33 deliveries, while contributions from the middle order helped the side maintain momentum through the innings.

In response, Sobisco Smashers Malda made light work of the chase. Writam Porel set the tone with an aggressive 50 off 29 balls before Abhimanyu Easwaran anchored the innings with an unbeaten 48 off 31 deliveries. The duo ensured Malda remained firmly in control as they chased down the target, finishing on 138/3 with eight balls to spare.

Brief scores: Murshidabad Kings vs Sobisco Smashers Malda

Murshidabad Kings 134/7 (15 overs)

Sobisco Smashers Malda: 138/3 (13.4 overs)

Brief score – Shrachi Rarh Tigers vs Servotech Siliguri Strikers

Siliguri Strikers: 208/4 (20 overs)

Shrachi Rarh Tigers: 184/9 (20 overs).

--IANS

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New Delhi, June 6 (IANS) The Army Cadet College (ACC) Wing marked a proud milestone on Saturday as 73 cadets of the 127th course graduated after completing three years of rigorous academic and military training.

The convocation ceremony, held at the historic Chetwode Hall of the Indian Military Academy (IMA), was attended by proud parents, instructors, and senior officers. The event resonated with the spirit of service under the motto “Har Kaam Desh Ke Naam.”

Lt Gen Nagendra Singh, AVSM, YSM, SM, Commandant of the IMA, conferred bachelor’s degrees from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, on 32 cadets from the Science stream and 41 cadets from the Humanities stream.

The ACC, a feeder institution to the IMA, prepares cadets for commissioning into the Indian Army through a curriculum that combines academics with intensive military training.

The graduating cadets will join the IMA in July 2026 for pre-commissioning training as officer cadets.

In his convocation address, Lt Gen Singh congratulated the cadets on crossing a major milestone in their careers. He reminded them that “character, self-discipline, courage, motivation, positive attitude, and professional competence are the pillars of a successful Army officer.”

The ceremony also honoured outstanding cadets. Wing Cadet Captain Naveen received the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gold Medal, Company Cadet Captain Avnish Kumar Mishra the Silver Medal, and Wing Cadet Quarter Master Harshraj the Bronze Medal.

Commandant’s Silver Medals were awarded to Company Quarter Master Sergeant Amanpreet Singh (First in Service Subjects), Avnish Kumar Mishra (First in Humanities Stream), and Wing Cadet Captain Naveen (First in Science Stream).

Nubra Company was awarded the Commandant’s Banner as the Champion Company, excelling in sports, academics, training, and other competitions.

Lt Gen Singh also commended Brigadier Peeyush Khurana, SM, Commander of the ACC Wing, and his team of instructors for their dedication to shaping the cadets.

The ceremony concluded with cadets, parents, and faculty sharing a moment of pride and reflection on the transformative journey that will soon lead the young men into commissioned service.

--IANS

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New Delhi, June 6 (IANS) The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has written to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, strongly objecting to the party’s campaign during the Kerala Assembly elections and accusing the Congress leadership of undermining opposition unity by alleging a “deal” between the CPI(M) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

In a detailed letter, CPI(M) General Secretary M.A. Baby recalled that during the Kerala polls, Congress leaders repeatedly alleged that CPI(M) senior leader and then Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had struck an understanding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The question was posed, “Otherwise, why is it that he has not been interrogated or arrested by the Enforcement Directorate?”

“These were not stray remarks made in the heat of an election campaign, but were the centrepiece of your political campaign. Every national leader, Rahul Gandhi, Shrimati Priyanka Gandhi, and you, made such allegations repeatedly,” Baby wrote.

The CPI(M) reminded the Congress that the INDIA Bloc was constituted as a broad platform to politically fight the BJP, bringing together parties of diverse ideologies who are otherwise electoral rivals in many states.

“Strangely, now, the CPI(M) is accused of having a deal with the BJP. This is a canard that we cannot take lightly. This strikes at the very basis of the unity forged against the BJP,” the letter said.

The CPI(M) also pointed out that hundreds of its cadres had been “martyred in Kerala in the fight against the RSS-BJP” and stressed that during the ten years of Left Democratic Front (LDF) rule in Kerala, there had been no communal riots, unlike in many other states.

“This vouches for our commitment towards secularism and safeguarding communal harmony,” Baby noted.

The letter further criticised the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, for repeatedly calling for the ED to take action against Vijayan.

“Can this be termed as an anti-BJP stance, or is it a case of inviting the Modi government to take illegal punitive action against a fellow opposition leader? Unless these matters are clarified, the very purpose of the INDIA Bloc would be in question,” Baby wrote.

“As the President of the Indian National Congress, it is up to you and the Congress leadership to clear the air regarding such disruptive moves,” the CPI(M) said, adding that the issue needed to be addressed in the context of the INDIA Bloc meeting scheduled for June 8.

Despite its concerns, the CPI(M) assured full cooperation in Parliament with the INDIA Bloc and other opposition parties to mount a united fight against what it described as the “authoritarian, communal, and anti-people policies” of the Modi government.

“The CPI(M) will never be found wanting in this task despite all the attacks and distortions,” Baby concluded.

--IANS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

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Mumbai, June 6 (IANS) Actress Neetu Chandra congratulated Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the youngest player to be selected for the Indian men's cricket team, on Saturday.

Neetu took to her official Instagram handle and uploaded a video congratulating Vaibhav on making it big at such a young age.

She was heard saying in the video, "As a Bihari, as a sports girl coming from Bihar, I cannot express how happy I am. Congratulations to the whole of India that a super talented player has been selected in our Indian team. Suryavanshi is such a small 15-16 year old kid."

Proud of the Bihari connection with the prodigy, she further expressed her excitement on Vaibhav breaking the record of Sachin Tendulkar for India's youngest-ever international cricket debutant.

Hoping for many World Cups in his future, Neetu shared in the same video, "I am very proud that you are coming from Bihar. I am sure that all the Indian cricket lovers in the world are waiting and welcoming you to the Indian team. We expect a lot of World Cups from you. And you have crossed the record of Sachin Tendulkar. I am sure that many more things are yet to come. So congratulations to you and your family. Congratulations to Indians all over the world and especially to Biharis."

"I am sure that many kids will play cricket with a lot of dedication. Coming from Bihar and all across India, they will make their name all over the world. So good luck. Jai Bihar Jai India," concluded the 'Garam Masala' actress.

For the caption, Neetu wrote, "Our #indianteam #cricke player So proud of you my dearest @vaibhav_sooryavanshi09 As a #bihari and an #indian Looking forward for many great innings of your life to be unfolded in front of us and breaking many more records. jaibihar jaihind (sic)."

--IANS

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Mumbai, June 6 (IANS) Amidst all the hype for his latest release, "Peddi", Ram Charan received a sweet surprise from his better half, Upasana Kamineni Konidela.

In an adorable gesture, Upasana shared a video of their staff members having a gala time grooving on the "Chikri Chikri" track from the sports drama.

However, the highlight of the clip shared on social media was their daughter Klin Kaara Konidela, who opened the video saying in her adorable voice, "This is for you Nanna, love you so much", followed by everyone tapping a foot on "Chikri Chikri".

"#Peddi we love u so much. Here’s a little something from all of us at home. (Red heart and evil eye emojis) Congratulations (celebration emoji) @alwaysramcharan (sic)," Upasana wrote the caption.

Meanwhile, a section of viewers recently expressed their displeasure over the "objectification " of the female lead, Janhvi Kapoor, in the drama.

On Saturday, director Buchi Babu Sana reacted to the backlash, promising that he would make changes. He further assured that he means no disrespect to women.

Taking to his X (Earlier known as Twitter) timeline, the filmmaker wrote, "As a filmmaker, I believe cinema should entertain, inspire, and connect with audiences. It should never make anyone feel uncomfortable or disrespected. We have heard the feedback regarding certain scenes in Peddi and have taken it seriously."

"I have always had immense respect for women, both on and off screen, and it was never our intention to objectify or disrespect any female character. If any part of the film has been perceived that way, we respect those sentiments, understand the concerns being raised, and sincerely apologize," he added.

Buchi concluded by saying that they have decided to make changes to the concerned portions after taking the feedback into consideration.

"Cinema grows through its connection with audiences, and as storytellers, we have a responsibility to be mindful of evolving perspectives and sensitivities," he said and added, "Every woman deserves to be respected, valued, and represented with dignity. We remain committed to telling stories that celebrate strong characters and uphold those values. Thank you to everyone who shared their views honestly and sincerely," he signed off.

--IANS

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Mumbai, June 6 (IANS) The popular television show "Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon" headlined by Sanaya Irani and Barun Sobti completed 15 years on Saturday.

Commemorating the special occasion, Sanaya conducted a fun rapid-fire round, comprising 15 questions with one of the writers of the drama.

In the various short clips published on social media, Sanaya was seen answering questions like how she managed to get the dialect right, her equation with her co-stars, getting through the romantic scenes, who used to nap the most on set, who would get a laughing fit between a scene, and who has the best memory, among other things.

Sanaya also revealed how she reacted when she learned that the show was coming to an end.

Expressing her gratitude to the audience for giving the drama so much love, Sanya wrote on her official Insta handle, "15 years! Time flies. TBH, I thought it was twenty! Lol! Just as a token of love, we have a QnA of 15 slides, but nothing can match the 15 raised to the power of infinity love that all of you have for us! You guys have made us eternal and we are blessed to have connected with you and found ourselves as a small place to live in your hearts rent free! Love to all (red heart emoji). Thanks @hegdeg for doing this with me. (sic)"

While Sanaya essayed the role of Khushi Kumari Gupta in the popular drama, Barun Sobti accompanied her as Arnav Singh Raizada.

Produced by Gul Khan, Nissar Parvez, and Rajesh Chadha under the banner of 4 Lions Films, "Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon?" aired on StarPlus from 6 June 2011 to 30 November 2012.

Directed by Nissar Parvez, Maan Singh, Arshad Khan, and Lalit Mohan, the show further saw Dalljiet Kaur, Utkarsha Naik, Abha Parmar, Sana Makbul, Karan Goddwani, Abhaas Mehta, Akshay Dogra, Deepali Pansare, Rajesh Jais, Sanjay Batra, and Jayshree Talpade in key roles.

--IANS

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Chennai, June 6 (IANS) Well known south Indian actor and producer Vijay Sethupathi on Saturday released the first look poster of director R Paneer Selvam's eagerly awaited action entertainer 'Renigunta 2', much to the delight of the fans of the franchise.

Taking to his X timeline, Vijay Sethupathi released the first look poster of the film and said, "Launching the first look poster of #Renigunta2 - Best wishes to the entire team.. A Film by @Directorpanneer."

For the unaware, the first part of 'Renigunta', which hit screens in 2009, went on to emerge as one of the most critically acclaimed films of the year. The film, the story of which revolved around five youngsters who escape from a juvenile home and make their way to Andhra Pradesh, won appreciation not just from critics but also from the general public.

Directed by Paneer Selvam, the first part showcased a grim world of crime that was seldom seen until then by Tamil audiences. Interestingly, this time around, Paneer Selvam is not just directing the film but also producing it.

Sources in the know say that the second part of the hit franchise will be set in a world that will be even more grim and fast paced than the first part. Shooting for the second instalment of the film, they say, is now in its final stages.

The second instalment of the film will feature actors Johnny, Shali Nivekas, Abhimanyu Shami Thilakan, Nishanth, Kanifa, Tamilselvam, Sundeep, Aahana,Arun, Jacintha, Vela Ramamurthy, Hareesh Peradi, Sujatha and Surbhi among others.

On the technical front, the film will have music by Manu Ravichandran and cinematography by R B Gurudev. Editing for the film will be by Antony while Art direction is by Lalgudi N Ilaiyaraaja. Stunts for the film have been choreographed by Rajasekhar while dances have been choreographed by Brindha and Azhar.

--IANS

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