Bhubaneswar, May 23 (IANS) The Odisha Police's Economic Offences Wing (EOW) has arrested two more persons in connection with the multi-crore District Mineral Foundation Trust (DMFT) fund embezzlement case involving fraudulent withdrawal of more than Rs 9.56 crore from a Bank of India account in Mayurbhanj district, a senior EOW official said.

The accused, identified as Surjit Roy and Sameer Srivastav, proprietors of Roy Associates and SS Traders respectively, were arrested from Raipur in Chhattisgarh on May 21 in connection with the fraud case, the EOW official on Friday added.

The senior police official also revealed that the accused duo was produced before the local court in Raipur and later brought to Bhubaneswar on transit remand.

The accused were arrested in connection with the case originally registered at Bhanjapur police station in Mayurbhanj district following a complaint filed by Sujata Kanungo, the Chief Manager of Bank of India's Baripada branch.

In the complaint, the Chief Manager alleged that fraudulent transactions amounting to Rs 9,56,76,600 were carried out from the DMFT account of the Mayurbhanj Zilla Parishad, maintained with Bank of India's Baripda branch, using four forged cheques on April 10 and April 18, 2024.

The EOW officials during the course of investigation found that the saving account of Mayurbhanj Zilla Parishad is being maintained with Bank of India's Baripada branch in the name of DMFT.

The officials also came to know that the fraudsters used cloned and forged cheques to transfer the funds worth Rs 9.56 crore into two different accounts in the name of PT Constructions and Supplier maintained with Bank of Maharashtra and S.K. Enterprises maintained with Punjab and Sindh Bank.

The money was subsequently diverted to multiple accounts across different states through layered transactions.

The EOW said that Rs 5.04 crore of the defrauded amount has been blocked, while Rs 13.56 lakh lying in 33 bank accounts has been frozen so far.

Investigators found that Rs 45.19 lakh and Rs 39.19 lakh were transferred from the account of PT Constructions and Supplier to Roy Associates of the accused Surjit and SS Traders of accused Sameer respectively.

"These accused persons are member of a larger gang having complex networking in different states like Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, West Bengal and Odisha. After his arrest, EOW has got important clues about the entire gang. They are doing these scams for last four years," the official said.

Earlier, four other accused involved in the multi-crore fraud case had been arrested by the EOW sleuths.

--IANS

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New Delhi, May 23 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu has received the Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in the national capital and hosted a banquet in his honour.

President Murmu said on Friday that the elevation of India–Cyprus relations to the level of a Strategic Partnership reflects the trust that has existed between our two countries for decades, and opens new opportunities for expanding mutual cooperation.

Earlier on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cyprus President Christodoulides held bilateral talks at Hyderabad House in New Delhi.

PM Modi announced that ties between India and Cyprus have been elevated to a strategic partnership.

He said that Cyprus President Christodoulides' visit to India marks the "next milestone" in the shared journey of the two nations.

"Today's meeting stands as a confirmation that Cyprus and India are not simply strengthening bilateral ties. We are building a partnership with strategic depth and global relevance. For our countries, our peoples, and for our respective regions," Christodoulides said on social media platform X after the meeting.

"A partnership built on trust and on the conviction that dialogue and cooperation, not confrontation, is the path forward," he added.

While addressing a joint press meet with President Christodoulides following their talks at Hyderabad House on Friday, PM Modi said, "Cyprus is one of India's top 10 investors. In the last decade, investments from Cyprus in India have nearly doubled. Trust between the two countries has grown. The India-EU FTA has opened up new opportunities. Leveraging this, we aim to double this investment once again over the next five years, and to realise this commitment, today we are elevating our trusted partnership to the level of a strategic partnership."

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the meeting outcomes include elevation of ties to a strategic partnership, besides signing of several agreements -- including on a Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism, diplomatic training between Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service (SSIFS) and the Diplomatic Academy of Cyprus's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and also in the field of higher education and research.

–IANS

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Washington, May 23 (IANS) Tulsi Gabbard, the US Director of National Intelligence, on Friday resigned from her position, citing her husband's ill-health.

"I am deeply grateful for the trust President Trump placed in me and for the opportunity to lead Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) for the last year-and-a-half. Unfortunately, I must submit my resignation effective from June 30. My husband, Abraham, has recently been diagnosed with an extremely rare form of bone cancer. He faces major challenges in the coming weeks and months. At this time, I must step away from public service to be by his side and fully support him through this battle." Gabbard said in her resignation letter addressed to the US President Donald Trump.

She said that while significant progress has been made at the ODNI in advancing "uprecedented transparency and restoring integrity to the intelligence community", there is still important work to be done.

She noted that she is fully committed to ensuring a smooth and thorough transition over the coming weeks to avoid any disruptions for the US President and his team in leadership or momentum.

Gabbard praised her husband for his support through her deployment to East Africa on Joint Special Operations mission political campaigns and her service in the role of Director of National Intelligence.

"I cannot in good conscience ask him (my husband) to face this fight alone while I continue in this demanding time-consuming position," she elaborated on her decision to step aside as the US Director of National Intelligence.

Trump responded to Gabbard's resignation on social media platform Truth Social, saying, "Tulsi has done an incredible job, and we will miss her. Her highly respected Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence, Aaron Lukas, will serve as Acting Director of National Intelligence."

"Her (Tulsi Gabbard's) wonderful husband, Abraham, has been recently diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer, and she, rightfully, wants to be with him, bringing him back to good health as they currently fight a tough battle together. I have no doubt he will soon be better than ever," the US President said.

--IANS

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Ahmedabad, May 23 (IANS) More than 2,000 athletes from 27 states are expected to participate in the fourth National Armwrestling and Para Armwrestling Championship 2026 at Gujarat's Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), making it the largest edition of the national event so far, officials said.

Officials on Friday added that this is the first time the championship will be hosted on the university's campus at Lavad in Gandhinagar.

The championship will be organised jointly by the People's Armwrestling Federation India (PAFI), the Armwrestling Federation of Gujarat and RRU from May 29 to June 2.

Organisers said the event is being held pursuant to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of strengthening India's sports culture and reviving the country's civilisational values and ethos through sporting initiatives.

The inaugural ceremony scheduled for May 30 will see the participation of several leading figures associated with the sport, including PAFI President Preeti Jhangiani, Pro Panja League owner Praveen Dabas and representatives of the Armwrestling Association of Gujarat, including General Secretary Rajender Singh Parmar and Treasurer Mayank Patel.

Organisers said the scale of this year's event reflects the growing popularity of armwrestling and para armwrestling across India.

The third PAFI National Armwrestling Championship, held in Kerala's Thrissur had recorded participation from around 1,700 athletes representing 25 states.

The upcoming edition at RRU is expected to exceed that figure with representation from 27 states and more than 2,000 competitors.

Participation data released ahead of the event indicates that the Northeastern states will send the largest contingent with nearly 350 athletes.

Kerala is expected to field 289 participants, while Uttar Pradesh will send around 140 athletes. Host state, Gujarat, is expected to have a contingent of 105 athletes.

The RRU said the championship underlines its commitment to promoting physical education and sporting excellence at the national level through its School of Physical Education and Sports.

"The event also carries added significance following remarks made by President Droupadi Murmu during the university's fifth convocation ceremony, where she appreciated the institution's contribution to sports and physical education and congratulated RRU student N. Roshibina Devi for her achievements in international competitions, including the Asian Games in Wushu," officials added.

Officials noted the championship forms part of RRU's broader efforts to strengthen its institutional capacity to organise major sporting events ahead of its role as host institution for the 2029 World Police and Fire Games.

The initiative also aligns with Gujarat's expanding role in India's sports ecosystem and Ahmedabad's long-term vision linked to the country's aspiration to host the 2036 Olympic Games.

Describing the championship as a landmark event for the university, organisers said the competition would bring together athletes, para-athletes, sports administrators and officials from across the country on a single platform while furthering the development of armwrestling as a competitive sport in India.

--IANS

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Jaipur, May 22 (IANS) A Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma at the Chief Minister's Office on Friday approved the Rajasthan Industrial Development Policy with the objective of transforming the state into a global industrial hub in line with the vision of 'Viksit Rajasthan @2047'.

The Cabinet also took several important decisions concerning industrial development, renewable energy, welfare of employees and pensioners, and initiatives for differently-abled persons.

During the meeting of the Council of Ministers chaired by the Chief Minister, discussions were also held on key issues, including the Vande Ganga Water Conservation-Public Campaign, the Chief Minister's Viksit Gram Shahri Ward Abhiyan Campaign, and the smooth supply of drinking water and electricity across the state.

The Council of Ministers passed a congratulatory resolution in honour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on receiving the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)'s highest award 'Agricola Medal'.

During the meeting, it was said that the award conferred upon the Prime Minister by the FAO of the United Nations is a matter of pride and joy for the nation.

The Prime Minister dedicated the honour to the country's farmers and livestock rearers.

Rajasthan Industry and Commerce Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Water Resources Minister Suresh Singh Rawat and Minister of State for Energy (Independent Charge) Hiralal Nagar said during a press conference that the Rajasthan Industrial Development Policy is based on the four pillars of "4G", including Green, Governance, Growth and Globalisation with the aim of taking the state economy to $350 billion by 2028-29.

Under the policy, eco-friendly industrial production, renewable energy and the circular economy will be promoted throughout the state.

New schemes will be introduced for the establishment of Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs) in Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation (RIICO) and non-RIICO areas, along with Integrated Resource Recovery Parks.

Development work for node-based industrial parks within the Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor will also begin.

The Rajasthan Ministers said the policy will focus on fast-track approvals, improved logistics connectivity, CETPs and plug-and-play infrastructure facilities.

Private sector participation in developing world-class industrial infrastructure will also be encouraged.

Additional incentives will be provided to MSMEs, One District One Product (ODOP) initiatives and the export sector.

Special emphasis will be placed on promoting emerging sectors such as semiconductors, data centres, Global Capability Centers (GCCs) and defence manufacturing, along with gems and jewellery, textiles, tourism, handicrafts, agro-processing, dairy and logistics industries.

he policy also focuses strongly on research and development (R&D) and technology transfer to encourage investment and indigenous manufacturing in Rajasthan.

Water Resources Minister Suresh Singh Rawat said the state Cabinet also discussed the action plan for the Vande Ganga Water Conservation Mass Campaign, which will be conducted from Ganga Dashami on May 25 to World Environment Day on June 5.

The campaign will begin with prayers and rituals at rivers, dams, ponds and other water sources, followed by cleaning and desilting activities for canals and water bodies.

Cleanliness drives, Shramdaan programmes and lamp-lighting ceremonies will be organised at district, block, gram panchayat, village and urban levels.

All Ministers-in-Charge have been directed to continuously monitor and review the campaign in their respective districts.

Minister Rawat added that preparations for grass sowing and tree plantation under the Hariyalo Rajasthan campaign will also be undertaken during this period.

'Jal Chaupals' will be organised at Gram Panchayat headquarters to discuss water conservation and harvesting initiatives.

Workshops, farmers' forums and seminars on drip irrigation, sprinkler systems and micro-irrigation will also be organised at Krishi Vigyan Kendras.

On June 5, the concluding ceremony of the campaign will be held at the district level, where 'Jal Gaurav Samman' awards will be presented to philanthropists, organisations, panchayats, urban local bodies and 'Water Warriors' for outstanding contributions to water conservation efforts.

Minister of State for Energy Hiralal Nagar said that discussions were also held during the Cabinet meeting regarding the measures being undertaken by various departments to ensure the smooth supply of drinking water and electricity amid the ongoing severe heatwave conditions across the state.

He told that, so far in May this year, the peak electricity demand recorded on May 20 stood at 16,487 megawatts, while the available supply was 16,580 megawatts.

He added the figures demonstrate that electricity supply exceeded demand, reflecting a major improvement and highlighting the state government's farsighted power management policy.

The Minister also said that, ahead of the summer season, the state government had launched a special statewide campaign for the repair and restoration of hand pumps and tubewells to ensure uninterrupted water availability in rural and urban areas.

Three major amendments have also been made to the Rajasthan Pension Rules, 1996.

Under the revised provisions, differently-abled children will no longer be required to submit a disability certificate every three years; the certificate will now need to be submitted only once.

Pensioners will also be allowed to submit their annual life certificate through face authentication technology using a mobile application.

In addition, non-gazetted officers will now be authorised to issue a pensioner's life certificate by signing through their SSO ID.

Earlier, the signatures of two gazetted officers were mandatory, but under the new rules, the signature of only one gazetted officer will be considered sufficient.

--IANS

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Hyderabad, May 23 (IANS) If this were a playoff trailer, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) delivered a blockbuster with fire, fury, and fearless intent in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 on Friday.

On a night illuminated by sixes at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, SRH didn’t just beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru by 55 runs — they sent a chilling reminder to the rest of the IPL 2006 top guns that their most dangerous version may finally have arrived.

The scorecard read 255/4. The atmosphere felt even bigger.

Everywhere RCB looked, the ball was disappearing into the stands. Boundaries arrived in clusters, bowls vanished into the night, and Hyderabad’s batting lineup played with the kind of freedom that can shake a tournament.

For RCB, strangely enough, the defeat carried little damage. They still secured a top-two finish and closed the league stage at the top of the table. But while the visitors could afford to look ahead to the playoffs, SRH seized the moment to make a statement of their own.

And what a statement it was.

Abhishek Sharma lit the fuse almost instantly. There was no caution, no feeling-out period — just pure aggression. His breathtaking 56 off 22 balls, packed with towering sixes and audacious strokeplay, set the tone for the carnage that followed. Beside him, Travis Head added another burst of chaos with a rapid cameo before the innings found its heartbeat in Ishan Kishan.

Kishan’s 79 off 46 deliveries was more than just an innings of power. It was controlled destruction. He pierced gaps effortlessly, manipulated the field with ease, and punished anything remotely loose. Just when RCB seemed desperate for the innings to slow down, Heinrich Klaasen walked in and ensured the nightmare continued.

Klaasen’s brutal 51 off 24 balls felt like the final act of a perfectly scripted assault. By the time Nitish Kumar Reddy added the finishing touches with an unbeaten 29 off 12 deliveries, Hyderabad had transformed the stadium into a launchpad.

RCB’s bowlers had no answers. Every frontline option leaked runs at more than 12 an over. Length balls disappeared. Yorkers missed. Even good deliveries were punished. Only Rasikh Salam escaped with a semblance of control, picking up two wickets amid the wreckage.

And yet, for a fleeting moment, the chase threatened to produce another twist.

RCB opener Venkatesh Iyer exploded out of the blocks with a blistering 44 off 19 balls, injecting belief into what looked like an impossible pursuit. The tempo briefly shifted. The crowd stirred again. But cricket’s momentum can disappear as quickly as it arrives.

The dismissals of Iyer, Virat Kohli, and Devdutt Padikkal in quick succession drained the chase of its edge, and Hyderabad tightened their grip.

Captain Rajat Patidar fought with composure during his fluent 56, while Krunal Pandya remained unbeaten on 41. But the asking rate climbed relentlessly, and SRH never allowed the game to drift back toward uncertainty.

Young pacer Eshan Malinga stood out with figures of 2/33, while Sakib Hussain impressed with his calm execution under pressure. Even Travis Head found himself among the wickets as Hyderabad completed a commanding victory.

The result may not derail RCB’s campaign. They now head to Dharamsala for Qualifier 1 against the Gujarat Titans with momentum from an excellent league stage still intact.

But beyond the points table and playoff permutations, Friday night belonged to Hyderabad’s warning shot.

Because this was not merely a win. It was a reminder of what SRH can become when their batting clicks in unison — explosive, relentless, and almost impossible to contain.

Heading into the Eliminator, one thing suddenly feels clear: Hyderabad are no longer just dangerous. They are terrifying at exactly the right time.

--IANS

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Hyderabad, May 22 (IANS) In a tragic incident, a priest father-son duo died by suicide in Telangana’s Jangaon district on Friday. The incident occurred in Bandlagudem village of Lingala Ghanpur mandal.

Lakshminarasimha Charyulu and his son, Pawan Kumar Charyulu, who were working as priests at the Lakshminarasimha Swamy temple, allegedly died by suicide by jumping into the temple pond.

Locals who spotted their bodies in the pond alerted the police. The bodies were pulled out and shifted to a government hospital for autopsy.

Preliminary investigation by the police indicated that the priests took the extreme step due to financial and family problems.

Lakshminarasimha Charyulu’s wife, Sridevi, had died a month ago due to health-related issues.

Police registered a case and took up further investigation.

Meanwhile, in Khammam district, a woman was found dead at her house and her relatives alleged that her husband killed her for insurance money.

R. Meenakshi (28) was found hanging in her house in Gol Thanda in Thirumalayapalem on the outskirts of Khammam town on Friday morning.

Police detained her husband, R. Shivaji, after an old video allegedly showing him brutally assaulting her surfaced.

Meenakshi’s relatives alleged that Shivaji beat her to death and was trying to make it appear as a suicide.

They demanded that police charge Shivaji with Meenakshi’s murder.

They alleged that he had been eyeing the life insurance policy purchased in her name and that he regularly assaulted and harassed her.

According to the family, there was an insurance policy worth Rs 80 lakh in her name.

Hours after Meenakshi’s body was found, a video surfaced showing Shivaji purportedly hitting Meenakshi with a belt. The woman was tied up while their child could be heard crying in the background.

According to police, the video was recorded by one of Meenakshi’s relatives but was kept hidden after family members intervened and a compromise was reached.

Police said they had registered a case and launched an investigation. They were awaiting the post-mortem examination report to ascertain whether it was a case of suicide or murder.

Police were questioning Shivaji as part of the investigation.

--IANS

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Rajkot, May 22 (IANS) All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Rajkot is emerging as a major healthcare hub for the Saurashtra region, with the institute reporting a sharp rise in critical surgeries and patient footfall since its super speciality hospital became operational in February 2024.

Spread across nearly 200 acres, AIIMS Rajkot currently offers 22 speciality and six super speciality medical services under one roof. The foundation stone of the institute was laid in December 2020.

Hospital authorities said the expansion of advanced medical facilities has enabled patients from Rajkot and nearby districts to access specialised treatment locally instead of travelling to Ahmedabad or other metropolitan cities.

According to figures released by the institute, around 180 critical surgeries are now being performed every month. While 861 operations were conducted at the hospital in 2024, the number increased to 1,927 in 2025.

Officials attributed the rise to the availability of modular operation theatres, intensive care units equipped with life support systems and specialised departments capable of handling complex medical procedures.

Complex surgeries related to neurosurgery and urology are now being performed at the institute, reducing dependence on larger urban hospitals for advanced treatment.

Patients visiting the hospital said the facilities and affordability of treatment have benefited families from middle-income and economically weaker sections.

Mayuri Morjaria, a patient at AIIMS Rajkot, said she received timely treatment and found the hospital facilities accessible.

Another patient, Shraddha, said: "The availability of multiple departments and doctors at one location had made treatment easier for patients travelling from outside Rajkot."

Dr L. N. Dorairajan, Executive Director of AIIMS Rajkot, emphasised that the institute was working to strengthen advanced healthcare delivery while ensuring treatment remained affordable for patients.

The hospital has also implemented an electronic medical record system developed by Centre for Development of Advanced Computing, enabling doctors to access patients’ medical history, diagnostic reports and treatment records digitally.

Officials said the system has reduced the need for patients to carry physical files during consultations and follow-up visits.

Diagnostic and laboratory facilities, including CT scan and 3 Tesla MRI services, are available at affordable rates at the institute.

Hospital officials said patients are required to obtain a card costing Rs 10, after which they can consult doctors in any department throughout the year.

In cases of accidents and medical emergencies, patients are provided completely free treatment during the first 24 hours of admission.

AIIMS Rajkot is also expanding its medical education infrastructure. From the 2025-26 academic year, the number of MBBS seats at the institute has been increased from 50 to 75.

According to hospital authorities, AIIMS Rajkot has so far treated more than 8.5 lakh patients since becoming operational, with the institute increasingly serving as a referral centre for specialised and critical healthcare services across Saurashtra.

--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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Hyderabad, May 22 (IANS) Director Ajay Nag V's upcoming action thriller, featuring actor Satyadev Kancharana in the lead, has been titled 'Samavarthi', its makers announced on Friday.

Sharing the title poster of the film on his X timeline, Satya Dev Kancharana, known for choosing diverse roles and carving a unique identity for himself as a hero, wrote, "This time the promise will be DELIVERED!! #Samavarthi @AjayNagV Love you for everything. Watching him direct is poetry in motion. A tiger hug to my beloved producers @JakkidiShivaIYC."

Samavarthi marks the 16th film in Satya Dev's career as a lead actor.

The film is being produced under the banners of Rudra Pictures & Panchabhuta Productions by Shivacharan Reddy Jakkidi and Shashidhar Reddy Padamati, while Ajay Nag V. is directing the project.

Sources close to the unit say that 'Samavarthi' is being made as an ecological action thriller and is gearing up for a grand theatrical release in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam.

The first-look poster of 'Samavarthi' features Satyadev in an intense avatar, calmly listening to music on his headphones while several men armed with axes and knives charge towards him.

The First Look poster emphasises subtle references to nature with the tiger in the background creating intrigue.

The title and poster have already created expectations that this could be one of the most intense action films in Satyadev’s career.

Interestingly, the film's makers have classified the film under a new genre called 'Ecological Action Thriller'.

Satyadev steps into an all-new zone with this film, consciously shifting gears into a full-fledged action space that amplifies both his physicality and intensity.

Set against the backdrop of nature’s raw and untamed forces, the film explores what can be termed an Ecological Action Thriller—a genre where high-stakes action is deeply intertwined with environmental conflict.

Apart from Satya Dev, the film will also feature Dileesh Pothan, Rajeev Kanakala, Ganavi Laxman, Ravindra Vijay, and Mohan Bhagath among others.

On the technical front, the film will have music by Sinjith Yerramilli and cinematography by Harsha Mallikarjun and Dev Deep Gandikundu. Editing is by Aditya Tiwari and art direction by Mondru Ravikumar.

--IANS

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Chennai, May 22 (IANS) Ace director Pandiraaj has now disclosed that he wrote the story of his eagerly awaited upcoming film, 'Parimala & Co', featuring actors Jayaram and Urvasi in the lead, in response to a challenge thrown to him.

Responding to a question posed by IANS on what made him come up with such a plot, Pandiraaj disclosed, "I wrote the story of this film during the lockdown. A small spark led to this story. My assistant director Ashwin, who is now the director of the superhit film 'Couple Friendly', suggested a web series on an OTT platform and asked me to watch it, saying it would be to my liking."

Pandiraaj continued, "I watched it and told him that I could write stories like the one he had suggested in a week's time. He said, "Do it." I accepted his challenge and did this story."

Stating that they slowly started adding more situations and began improvising the script, Pandiraaj said, "We thought how it would be if we made this into a dark comedy."

"After completing it, I kept it aside. That was the time director Jagan and my assistant Divya came. They saw this script and said, the writing in this was fantastic and wanted me to do this script as a film first," the director explained.

For the unaware, Parimala & Co, which is Pandiraaj's 12th film as a director, will be a thriller and a comedy.

Sources in the know had informed IANS that the story of the film would revolve around a family. The story of the film would revolve around the unique nature and characteristics of each member of this family and the problems that they encountered.

They had pointed out that the story, which begins in Chennai, would shift to Coimbatore and Palacode as it progressed.

Apart from Urvasi and Jayaram, who play the lead, the film also features Santhosh Sobhan in a pivotal role along with Sanchana Krishnamoorthy. The film will also feature Sandy and Ananthika Sanalkumar.

Comedian Yogi Babu will be seen in a lengthy role and will make his presence felt all through the film, sources had said and added that director Mysskin played the role of a police officer in the film.

Two intelligent and much admired comedians -- Singam Puli and Baks -- too would be seen in important roles in this film.

The film has been produced by Lyca Productions, Tamilkumaran Productions and director Pandiraaj's own Pasanga Productions.

--IANS

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Los Angeles, May 22 (IANS) Hollywood actress Rumer Willis feels that she looks "hotter" and has credited her "spiritual work" for the same.

The 37-year-old House Bunny actress, who is the eldest daughter of Bruce Willis and Demi Moore - has insisted her new look isn't down to cosmetic surgery and revealed her face has "physically changed " because she's been focusing on spirituality in the last few years, reports ‘Female First UK’.

During an appearance on The Inside Edit podcast, the actress said, "In an interesting way, I feel like the outer reflection is also (proof of the inner work). I’m hotter than I’ve ever been. That’s not because I’ve had a bunch of plastic surgery. I don’t even get Botox anymore, I wish. That’s why I have all these lines on my forehead when I talk”.

She further mentioned, “My face, literally, has physically changed from spiritual work I have done. Which has been crazy ... I’ve literally not done anything other than (spiritual work). I think I had this layer of hiding. I had this layer of, ‘Don’t see me. I’m not pretty.’ I kept repeating that to myself”.

As per ‘Female First UK’, the actress went on to reveal her attitude changed after she became a first-time mother to daughter Louetta, with her ex-boyfriend Derek Richard Thomas, in April 2023.

She added, "I feel like once I had Lou, all of a sudden I was like, 'I can f****** do anything'”. Rumer and Derek were together for two years but they split a year after their daughter was born. The actress revealed they are co-parenting their little girl and she's grateful for the relationship because it gave her Louetta.

In a post on Instagram, the actress said, "I am single-moming it and coparenting. I’m so grateful for Lou. She is the best thing in my life. I’m forever grateful I was able to have the time in that relationship for her to come into my life”.

During her appearance on the podcast, Rumer talked about being a single mother and insisted she will start dating again at some point but she wants to make sure any potential partners are interested in starting a family.

--IANS

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Mumbai, May 22 (IANS) The National Award-winning music composer Pritam has shared his experience of working with Italian artiste Mahmood on the recently released song ‘Mashooqa’ from the upcoming film ‘Cocktail 2’ starring Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna.

The song is a playful, glamorous and flirty number, and is the musical embodiment of a summer romance. Pritam has joined forces with internationally acclaimed Italian artist Mahmood, along with singer Raghav Chaitanya, to create an unique soundscape. Mahmood on his part has co-composed, wrote and sang the Italian parts of the song.

While Raghav Chaitanya brings the local palpable flavour to the track with his singing, Mahmood’s smooth Italian vocals add a refreshing and unexpected twist to this casual dance number.

Talking about the collaboration with Mahmood, Pritam shared, "Imagine what collaboration with the right artist can bring to the soundscape of a song. Mashooqa, which is shot in Sicily, is made more real and relatable by immensely talented Italian artist Mahmood, whose voice’s texture and singing style elevated the song to another level”.

Sharing his experience of collaborating with Pritam and singing for a Bollywood song, Mahmood said, "I’ve always been fascinated by the world of Bollywood, the way music, cinema and emotion become one powerful language. Collaborating with Pritam for this film was like stepping into an imaginary world I had admired from afar for a long time. And knowing that some scenes were shot in Sicily makes it even more meaningful, I love the idea of two worlds so rich in culture and emotion meeting through music and cinema”.

The video of the song features Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon at their stylish and flirtatious best. It showcases a more casual, relaxed vibe bursting with addictive beats, sparkling chemistry and an ease of viewing and listening. The track captures the thrill of spontaneous connection, young love and the glamorous chaos of an unforgettable summer romance.

Raghav Chaitanya shared, “‘Mashooqa’ has such a fresh and infectious vibe to it. What excited me the most was how seamlessly the Italian elements blended with a quintessential Bollywood soundscape. Working with Pritam da and collaborating on a track that brings together two musical cultures was an incredible experience. The audience response has been overwhelming and it’s amazing to see people instantly connect with the song’s energy and flavour”.

‘Cocktail 2’ is set to release on June 19, 2026.

--IANS

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