Kolkata, Aug 12 (IANS) Lt Gen Harsh Chhibber, who heads the Directorate General of Information Systems (DGIS) of the Indian Army, visited the Eastern Command headquarters in Kolkata on Wednesday.

Lt Gen Chhibber interacted with Lt Gen VMB Krishnan, General Officer Commanding‑in‑Chief, Eastern Command. “The interaction focused on advancing digital capabilities and leveraging technology for enhanced operational effectiveness,” the Command said in a post on X.

The DGIS chief also interacted with officers of the Command, explaining the latest developments towards enhancing the information and technology capabilities of the Indian Army, the statement said.

The visit comes at a time when the Army is scaling up its use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) and big data analytics across all levels to streamline operations and improve decision‑making. Officials said the ultimate aim is to process large volumes of battlefield data to enhance situational awareness and response times.

Under the programme, large language models are being put front and centre to allow the Army to interpret and summarise lengthy reports. They will also provide voice‑to‑text service, power AI chatboxes and facial recognition, and enable pattern and threat detection tools.

Feeds from aircraft, satellites, drones and ground sensor networks can also be monitored using this technology, which is to be in place by 2027. The Army will leverage the resulting solutions for counterintelligence, surveillance, logistics, open‑source intelligence, social media security, enemy equipment analysis and wargaming simulations.

The aim is also to optimise equipment targeting, predictive maintenance and navigation in GPS‑denied environments. The technology will aid in threat detection and operational planning.

The Army plans to embed AI articles into the military’s technical baseline for all future procurements and may explore retrofitting select AI capabilities into legacy systems. A special task force has been formed with teams that include personnel from different commands.

While the Indian Air Force and Navy already have high‑tech embedded in their systems, the Army is now progressing towards the induction of the latest technology to help it fight wars more effectively. “The aim is to take this technology to the soldier who will actually be fighting the wars of the future. For this, high‑tech systems are being developed that are easier to understand,” an official said.

--IANS

jg/dan

Guwahati, Aug 12 (IANS) Tezpur Titans registered their first win of the season, chasing down 159 to beat Barak Legends by seven wickets in the Assam Premier League 2026 at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on Wednesday.

A commanding 136-run stand between Nihar Deka and Roshan Topno powered the chase, with the pair putting the Legends bowling attack to the sword.

Earlier, Bishal Saha's unbeaten 81-run knock had lifted Legends to a competitive total after a middle-order stumble.

Deciding to field after winning the toss, Titans struck twice in the Power-play to reduce Barak Legends to 32/2, with Aman Singh and Subham Mandal both departing cheaply. Shraban Kumar Khound added 18 before falling, and skipper Sibsankar Roy contributed 21, but wickets continued to tumble at the other end.

Through it all, Bishal Saha anchored the innings superbly, remaining unbeaten on 81 off 58 balls with seven fours and two sixes. Ayushman Malakar was the pick of the bowlers for Tezpur Titans with 2/33, while Wasim Akram Haque, Danish Ahmed, Abhinav Choudhury, Nihar Deka and Dharani Rabha shared the remaining wickets as Barak Legends posted 158/7 in their 20 overs.

In response, Titans lost both openers cheaply, with Wasim Akram Haque out for a duck off the very first ball and Dibash Hazarika following soon after, leaving their side reeling at 6/2. Nihar and Roshan then came together and took the game away from Legends, putting on 136 runs for the third wicket.

Nihar struck a scintillating 72 off 44 balls with five fours and five sixes before falling to Abdul Ajij Kuraishi, but Topno continued unabated, remaining unbeaten on 72 off 46 balls with seven fours and three sixes. He dominated proceedings as Tezpur Titans cruised to 159/3 in 17.5 overs to complete a comfortable seven-wicket win and open their account for the season.

Brief scores:

Barak Legends 158/7 in 20 overs (Bishal Saha 81*, Sibsankar Roy 21; Ayushman Malakar 2/33, Wasim Akram Haque 1/23, Nihar Deka 1/20).

Tezpur Titans 159/3 in 17.5 overs (Nihar Deka 72, Roshan Topno 72*; Abdul Ajij Kuraishi 2/21, Mohit Thakur 1/21).

Result: Tezpur Titans beat Barak Legends by 7 wickets.

--IANS

bsk/

Agartala, Aug 12 (IANS) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Wednesday said that, according to a NITI Aayog report, the state has emerged as a frontrunner in various sectors and is moving ahead rapidly in different areas.

“Tripura is now in second place in the Northeast in terms of GSDP and per capita income. We all have to work more actively to take the state further forward,” he said. Saha said this while inaugurating the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected committee members of the Tripura Hawkers Union and a blood donation camp organised at the Hawkers’ Corner in the capital.

Inaugurating the programme, Saha praised the initiative of the Tripura Hawkers Union and said that Hawkers’ Corner has a long-standing tradition.

“We have a heart-to-heart relationship with Hawkers’ Corner. Buyers and sellers from far and wide come to this market with a lot of trust and confidence. Here, there is a cordial relationship between the owners and workers. Agartala Municipal Corporation should take initiatives to make Hawkers’ Corner more beautiful, and traders should work more sincerely to maintain its reputation,” he said.

The Chief Minister said that the state government was committed to being people-friendly. “This government is a government of all, and the state government wants to maintain harmony and unity between employers and workers,” he said. “We want peace to be maintained everywhere, including in business and commerce. But many people want to create an atmosphere of unrest in the state. Tripura is no longer where it was before. It has come a long way,” he said.

The Chief Minister said that the state’s products, including its popular honey, pineapple, jackfruit and other agricultural produce, were now being exported to other states as well as abroad.

“This year, about 1,200 businessmen and industrialists participated in the Tripura Destination Business Conclave. At the conclave, the state government signed MoUs worth Rs 1 lakh crore with state, domestic and foreign businessmen and industrialists,” Saha said.

The Chief Minister also said that a total of 21,000 government jobs had been provided so far, while another 5,000 people had been given employment through government outsourcing. He said that various development works, including infrastructure projects worth more than Rs 1,500 crore, had been undertaken this year.

“In Agartala, accumulated rainwater is now being drained through pumps within a short time,” he said, highlighting the steps taken by the state government to address waterlogging and improve civic infrastructure in the capital.

Referring to the initiatives of the Central government, Saha said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was working towards making the country stronger. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi is working to make the country stronger. This is reflected in the work done through Operation Sindoor, surgical strikes, preventing fuel crises, etc. Our state government is also moving forward on the path shown by the Prime Minister,” he said.

The Chief Minister stressed the importance of maintaining peace and harmony for the continued development and progress of Tripura. He said that the government was committed to ensuring a peaceful environment for all sections of society and creating conditions conducive to business, trade and overall economic growth.

After the inauguration ceremony, the Chief Minister visited the blood donation camp and encouraged the blood donors for their contribution to the humanitarian cause.

Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor and MLA Dipak Majumdar, Deputy Mayor Manika Das Dutta, and other prominent citizens were present at the programme.

--IANS

sc/uk

Ahmedabad, Aug 12 (IANS) The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has secured four more days' remand of Amit Dongre, the former Probationary Chief Fire Officer of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), in connection with the alleged Rs 36,000 bribe case involving approval of fire safety no objection certificates (NOCs) for six buildings in the city.

The Ahmedabad ACB court granted the additional remand on Wednesday, with the agency seeking custody to carry out a search of a bank locker linked to Dongre in his hometown of Bhopal.

Dongre will now be taken to Bhopal as part of the search operation, according to the latest development in the case.

The court has also approved a warrant against the second accused, Bhavsinh Zala, and he has been sent to Sabarmati Central Jail.

The case dates back to August 7, when the ACB laid a trap after receiving a complaint from a Fire Safety Officer who provides fire safety-related services to buildings in Ahmedabad.

The complainant had submitted applications through the Gujarat government's online portal for Fire NOCs for six different buildings.

According to the ACB, a bribe of Rs 36,000, calculated at Rs 6,000 per NOC, was allegedly demanded through Zala, 31, a private individual, for approval of the six NOCs.

During the trap near Yash Equa Complex at Vijay Cross Roads in Memnagar, Zala was allegedly caught red-handed while accepting the entire amount.

The ACB subsequently alleged that Dongre, 47, was involved in the demand.

During the operation, Zala spoke to Dongre over the telephone in a purposeful conversation, during which Dongre allegedly gave his consent regarding the bribe amount.

The bureau's preliminary findings indicated that Zala had demanded and accepted the money at Dongre's instance.

Following the trap, the AMC terminated Dongre's appointment with immediate effect.

At the time of the alleged offence, he was serving as Probationary Chief Fire Officer in the AMC's Fire and Emergency Services Department.

The latest remand will allow the ACB to conduct the proposed search of Dongre's bank locker in Bhopal as the investigation into the alleged bribery case continues.

--IANS

mys/khz

Jaipur, Aug 12 (IANS) Rajasthan Chief Secretary V. Srinivas held a meeting with Chairman of the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), Ajay Seth, at the Secretariat on Wednesday to discuss initiatives for expanding insurance coverage and improving claim settlement in the desert state.

Rajasthan Finance (Expenditure) Department Secretary, Tina Soni, was also present.

The meeting focused on initiatives aimed at advancing the vision of "Insurance for All by 2047" in Rajasthan.

Discussions were held on expanding accidental and life insurance coverage under the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) and Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), with the objective of increasing insurance penetration among uninsured and vulnerable sections of the population.

The possibility of integrating the Rajasthan Government Health Scheme (RGHS) with the National Health Claims Exchange (NHCE) was also discussed to enhance interoperability, transparency and efficiency in health claim processing.

The meeting further deliberated on strengthening insurance coverage for commercial vehicles across the state, including ensuring mandatory third-party insurance coverage.

The Chief Secretary and the IRDAI Chairman also discussed expediting the settlement of pending motor vehicle accident claims through Lok Adalats to ensure timely relief to claimants.

It was decided that the State Insurance and Provident Fund (SIPF) Department would organise a follow-up meeting to take forward the discussions and coordinate necessary action.

The meeting will be attended by the Chief Secretary, IRDAI Chairman, CEO and Joint Secretary of the National Health Authority (NHA), Principal Secretaries of the Health and Family Welfare and Transport Departments, SIPF Director, Additional Director General (Traffic), representatives of hospital associations and representatives of leading insurance providers in Rajasthan.

--IANS

arc/khz

Ahmedabad, Aug 12 (IANS) More than one lakh citizens joined Ahmedabad’s Tiranga Yatra on Wednesday as the city marked the run-up to Independence Day with a procession from Raypur to Sarangpur, carrying the Tricolour and paying tribute to the country’s armed forces.

Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi flagged off the yatra from Raipur by unfurling the national flag.

The procession was organised by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation under the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign as part of Independence Day celebrations and to mark 150 years of Vande Mataram.

The yatra had earlier been scheduled for August 11 but was rescheduled to August 12. Minister of State for Urban Development, Darshana Vaghela, also participated in the procession.

Speaking at the event, Sanghavi said: “From Kashmir to Kanyakumari and from villages to metropolises, there is only one colour of patriotism today... the colour of the Tricolour.”

"Soldiers continued to stand firm to protect the country in extreme heat, torrential rain, severe cold and other difficult circumstances," he added.

He said citizens had a responsibility to express their gratitude to soldiers and their families and appealed to people to salute their courage and carry the message of patriotism across the country with slogans of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’.

Sanghavi said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign had turned it into a nationwide people’s movement, with people ranging from children to senior citizens and residents of villages and cities participating with the national flag.

The Deputy CM described the participation of young people, women and elderly citizens in Ahmedabad’s procession as a reflection of the city’s patriotic spirit.

Sanghavi also urged citizens to maintain the dignity of the national flag. "The Tricolour should always be kept flying high, and care should be taken to ensure that it does not fall on the road, even accidentally. After the procession, citizens should fold the flag properly, take it home respectfully and preserve it appropriately," he said.

The procession began from the Big Bazaar-Raypur area and passed through several parts of the old city before concluding at Sarangpur.

The route was decorated in the colours of the Tricolour, with 11 welcome stages set up at locations including Raipur Char Rasta, Khadia Gate and Sarangpur Char Rasta.

Patriotic songs and cultural performances were held at the stages, including renditions of ‘Vande Mataram’, ‘Sare Jahan Se Achha’ and ‘Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon’. Teachers from the Ahmedabad School Board carried a 300-foot-long national flag during the yatra.

Police platoons, State Reserve Police personnel, the police band, fire department personnel, Home Guards, students and teachers accompanied by a scout band, sportspersons, and representatives of different communities and organisations also took part.

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) also prepared theme-based tableaux highlighting cleanliness, the environment, patriotism and the city’s development, which formed part of the procession.

The yatra concluded at Sarangpur with a fireworks display. Sanghavi and other dignitaries paid floral tribute to the statue of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar and recalled his contribution to nation-building.

--IANS

mys/uk

Jaipur, Aug 12 (IANS) Rajasthan Leader of Opposition (LoP) Tika Ram Jully on Wednesday questioned the state government over the killing of a prisoner who was shot dead while being transported to the Jaipur jail, raising serious concerns over the security of inmates in police custody and the overall law and order situation in the state.

A 45-year-old prisoner lodged at the Sanganer Open Jail was shot dead in Jaipur on Wednesday evening while he was travelling back to the jail from his home.

The incident took place on Wednesday evening in the Janaki Vihar area of Dhabas under Karni Vihar police station limits.

The deceased, identified as Gangasahay Kumawat (45), was riding a motorcycle when two masked men allegedly approached him and opened fire.

The attackers reportedly fired three round of fire, one of which struck Gangasahay in the head following which he died at the spot.

According to Jaipur West Deputy Commissioner of Police Prashant Kiran, the assailants fled after the shooting.

After receiving information from local residents, police teams from Karni Vihar, Bhankrota and Chitrakoot police stations reached the spot.

A large mob gathered following the incident, while police teams collected evidence from the spot and began investigating the circumstances surrounding the killing.

Police said Gangasahay was serving a jail sentence in connection with a 2018 murder case.

According to the investigation, Gangasahay had been convicted for the murder of Mahendra Gurjar, a history-sheeter from the Moti Dungri area. He was subsequently lodged at Sanganer Open Jail.

He had reportedly gone to his home in Dhabas and was returning to the open jail when he was attacked.

Reacting to the incident, LoP Jully criticised the state government and raised questions over law and order in Jaipur.

Calling Jaipur the capital "under the shadow of fear and terror", Tika Ram Jully said that two masked men riding a motorcycle shot a man in broad daylight in Dhabas and fired three rounds.

"The gunfire from brazen criminals in the capital signals that the writ of the law has eroded and the safety of the common people is left to the mercy of God," LoP Jully said.

He questioned the Rajasthan government over the deteriorating law and order situation and asked, "Chief Minister (referring to Bhajan Lal Sharma), for how long must Rajasthan continue to live under the shadow of fear?"

According to a complaint filed by Dharmendra Gurjar, a resident of Shastri Nagar, on April 25, 2018, his elder brother Mahendra Gurjar, who lived in Moti Dungri and also owned a house in Ekta Nagar at Dhabas had gone to the property on his motorcycle on April 23.

Dharmendra said that he was later informed by an acquaintance Babu Gurjar and local residents that Gangasahay, who owned Balaji Electricals, had attacked Mahendra during an argument.

Mahendra died following the assault, according to the complaint.

Gangasahay was subsequently convicted in the case and was serving his jail sentence at the Sanganer Open Jail.

The broad daylight shooting has raised questions about the motive behind the attack.

Police are investigating whether the killing was connected to the earlier murder case or stemmed from another dispute.

Multiple police teams are working to identify and trace the two attackers.

Investigators are also examining evidence collected from the crime site and other available leads to establish the sequence of events and determine the motive behind the killing.

--IANS

arc/khz

Bengaluru, Aug 12 (IANS) Former MP Prajwal Revanna, who is serving a life sentence in a rape case, was shifted from the VIP cell to a normal cell housing other convicted prisoners at the Bengaluru Central Prison on Wednesday after a mobile phone was reportedly found in his cell.

The development took a fresh turn on Wednesday evening after a purported 17‑second video showing Prajwal allegedly speaking on a mobile phone from inside his prison cell surfaced on social media and went viral. The authenticity of the video has not been independently verified, and prison authorities have not yet issued an official reaction.

In the purported video, Prajwal is seen wearing coloured clothes instead of the mandatory prison uniform and speaking on a mobile phone while being in a cell fitted with a ceiling fan. He is heard referring to having made a call two days earlier. The video has raised further questions over the circumstances in which the mobile phone was allegedly being used inside the prison.

Following the recovery of the mobile phone, Prajwal has reportedly been moved to a cell with around 20 other prisoners, who share a single toilet. He has also been instructed to wear the mandatory prison uniform and carry out duties in the prison library.

The development has assumed a political dimension, coming a day before the Monsoon Assembly Session. The Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (Secular) (JD‑S) have announced that they would not allow the Assembly proceedings to function unless Minister for Planning and Statistics B. Nagendra resigns.

It may be recalled that the Central Crime Branch (CCB) police recently conducted a raid at the Parappana Agrahara Central Prison, during which a mobile phone and a pen drive were reportedly recovered from Prajwal’s cell. A blue Redmi 5G mobile phone, a charger, a blue pocket notebook and a black SanDisk pen drive were among the items reportedly recovered. According to the report, obscene videos were found on the mobile phone and pen drive.

Prajwal was subsequently shifted from the VIP section to a cell for ordinary convicted prisoners. He and another undertrial prisoner, Prathap Rai, had been housed in the VIP cell. Rai, who was arrested in a POCSO case, was reportedly assisting Prajwal.

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge on Wednesday said he had personally ordered the CCB raid on Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara Central Prison, during which more than 10 mobile phones were recovered, including one allegedly found in the barrack of former MP Prajwal Revanna.

Police said several OTT applications were found on the mobile phone recovered from Prajwal’s barrack.

Reacting to the recovery, Kharge said a raid of this nature required the approval of the Home Department and the Chief Minister. “I got the CCB raid conducted. A raid requires the permission of the Home Department. I had visited Parappana Agrahara two weeks ago and noticed certain lapses. Therefore, after obtaining the Chief Minister’s approval, I ordered the raid,” he said.

He added that the action was initiated based on information provided by officials and that he had directed authorities to suspend officials who were found to have facilitated irregularities inside the prison.

Prison Department DGP Alok Kumar said Assistant Superintendent Eeranna had been suspended in connection with the lapses. At the same time, a show‑cause notice had been issued to Jail Superintendent Anshukumar seeking an explanation.

Kumar said a mobile phone and charger were recovered from Prajwal’s barrack and that several OTT applications were found on the device. He said officials would also examine whether the prison’s Wi‑Fi network had been used.

--IANS

mka/dan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

sj/rad

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

sps/svn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

na/vd

Chennai, Aug 12 (IANS) The makers of director Muthaiya's upcoming action entertainer featuring actor Arun Vijay in the lead on Wednesday announced that the film had now been titled 'Irulan', much to the delight of fans and film buffs.

The makers also released the first look motion poster of the film on the occasion.

Taking to his social media timelines to share the first look motion poster of the film, Arun Vijay wrote, "Presenting the first look motion poster of 'IRULAN' for you'll!!"

It may be recalled that Arun Vijay had been sweating it out in the gymnasium to sport a lean, fit look in this film. The actor, in an exclusive interview to IANS earlier, had that the film's plot was based on a real-life incident.

Some days ago, actor Arun Vijay had taken to his Instagram page to post a picture of him slogging it out in the gymnasium. He wrote, "All pumped up for the ongoing power packed action schedule for #AV38 !! #directormuthaiya #thirunalveli."

When IANS got in touch with the actor to ask about the look he sported in the film and the efforts he was making to acquire that look, Arun Vijay disclosed that he sported two looks in the film.

"I sport a period look and then I also sport a much younger look for which I need to have a toned body that looks fit and lean. Therefore, I am looking to shed weight at the moment," he had said with a smile.

The actor had disclosed that the film was based on a true incident and that it would be an entertainer that would appeal to everyone in a family. "We are shooting the film in the Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi belt. Already we have shot for around 25 days. The period portions in the film are over. We are now filming the present-day portions," he had then said.

Stating that the film would revolve around a passionate youngster's efforts to take up his family's ancestral profession much against the wishes of the elders in his family, the actor said the film was really shaping up well and that it would be high on family sentiment, action and drama.

--IANS

mkr/

Mumbai, Aug 12 (IANS) As Bollywood actress Sara Ali Khan turned 31 years old on Wednesday, her younger brother and actor, Ibrahim Ali Khan, marked the special day with a lovely post on social media.

Ibrahim took to his official Instagram handle and published a picture with sister Sara from one of their fun getaways.

He thanked Sara for being the 'Best Big sister' any brother could ask for.

Ibrahim wrote on the photo-sharing app, "Happiest birthday to my appa jaan (explosion emojis) love you the most and thank you for being the best sister ever @saraalikhan95 (sic)."

In addition to her brother, Sara also received a cheerful birthday wish from Kareena Kapoor, who provided an insight into Sara’s food preferences through her latest social media post.

Bebo took to her Insta Stories and dropped a still of herself with husband Saif Ali Khan, Sara and Ibrahim.

Wishing Sara on her birthday, Kareena wrote, “Happy birthday Sara darling…to more pumpkin sabzi and now yoghurts. May your plate always be full…” She further tagged Sara.

For those who do not know, after being in a relationship for some time, Kareena married Sara's father, Saif Ali Khan, back in October 2012.

Sara and Ibrahim are Saif’s kids from his first marriage to Amrita Singh, whereas Taimur and Jehangir Ali Khan are his sons with Kareena.

Work-wise, Sara will be seen sharing screen space with actor Ayushmann Khurrana yet again in the forthcoming drama “Udta Teer".

Sara was first paired with Ayushmann on screen in the recently released “Pati Patni Aur Woh Do,” which also saw Rakul Preet Singh and Wamiqa Gabbi in significant roles.

The project that marks the directorial debut of Akash A Kaushik was initially slated to be out in theatres on September 11 this year.

However, its release has now been pushed to October 9.

--IANS

pm/

Chennai, Aug 12 (IANS) The makers of director Elan's upcoming comedy drama 'Pyar Prema Kalyanam', featuring Elan and actress Saanvee Meghana in the lead, on Wednesday released the trailer of their upcoming film, much to the delight of fans and film buffs.

The film, which is to be directly released on the OTT platform Netflix, is a wholesome family entertainer that flips one of marriage's oldest traditions on its head. It's story revolves around a bridegroom who chooses to stay in his wife's home along with her parents instead of the conventional practice of the wife having to stay with the husband's family.

Directed by and starring Elan in his acting debut, the film is slated to premiere on Netflix on August 21 this year.

The trailer introduces Pavi (Saanvee Meghana), a spirited influencer who refuses to leave the home she's always known. Instead, her husband (Elan) moves into her house, stepping into a new family where every day is a fresh experience. Between awkward first impressions, hilarious clashes and chaos, one question takes centre stage: Who said the bride is always the one who has to leave?

As expectations are turned upside down, Pyaar Prema Kalyanam serves up romance, comedy and heartfelt moments in equal measure, proving that marriage is about finding what works for you.

Apart from Elan and Saanvee Meghana, the film also features actors Radhika Sarathkumar, Yogi Babu, M.S. Bhaskar, Geetha Kailasam, Elango Kumaravel, Senthil and Maran among others. Complementing the laughter is Yuvan Shankar Raja's soulful soundtrack.

Sharing his excitement, director and debutant actor, Elan, said, "With Pyaar Prema Kalyanam, we wanted to tell a story that feels familiar yet refreshingly different. The trailer offers a glimpse into a marriage that challenges long-held expectations while celebrating the love, laughter and togetherness that make every family unique. Making my acting debut with a story so close to my heart has been incredibly special, and I can't wait for audiences across the world to experience it on Netflix."

Playing the feisty influencer Pavi, Saanvee Meghana said, "Pavi is confident, independent and unapologetically herself. She knows what she wants without ever losing sight of the people she loves, and that's what drew me to her. The trailer captures her spirit beautifully, and I hope audiences enjoy watching her redefine what love and partnership can look like."

Veteran actress Radhika Sarathkumar shared, "What I loved most about this film is how effortlessly it starts conversations about changing family dynamics without ever losing its humour. Every generation views marriage differently, and those differences create moments that are funny, emotional and deeply relatable."

Adding his trademark humour, Yogi Babu said, "The trailer is only a small taste of the fun we've had making this film. The comedy comes from everyday family situations, and that's what makes it connect. I can't wait for audiences to laugh along with us and enjoy it together with their families."

--IANS

mkr/

Mumbai, Aug 12 (IANS) Actor and content creator, Aarush Bhola, who can be seen in the recently released season 5 of the gaming reality show ‘Playground 5’, has spoken up on his relationship with change.

Aarush spoke with IANS along with his fellow mentors on the show, Elvish Yadav and Tejasswi Prakash during the promotions of the show at a 5-star property in the city.

When asked if change is always comfortable for him or if there is a sense of discomfort, he said, “If there is change in everything then I enjoy doing it. In the beginning, I used to do a lot of YouTube. People are used to seeing me. But gradually, you have to change your frequency, your content. Then I took this change. That I will share it for 3-4 days. After that, I decided to put some trip vlogs. Now I show some BTS vlogs. Some new opportunities have come. I did a reality show for that. But people didn't get a real personality because of me being a vlogger. As a vlogger, you record others more. you record your surroundings. So, people can’t ascertain your personality”.

He further mentioned, “On a show, a director, producer, all brains work, and that’s how your personality comes up. I wanted to show that to people. So for this change, I left all the vlogging. I went to that in my ‘Rise and Fall’. Then I came out of there. Then I saw the change. Now I do podcasts. All that should change only then the audience will enjoy”.

Talking about ‘Playground’, the show blends gaming, entertainment, competition and influencer culture into a single format. It is designed around a virtual playground, and brings together young creators, gamers and internet personalities who compete in a variety of challenges while navigating rivalries, friendships and team dynamics.

‘Playground’ season 5 is available to stream on Amazon MX Player.

--IANS

aa/