Mumbai, April 23 (IANS) The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has launched a fresh campaign in Goregaon aimed at promoting the Marathi language, with auto-rickshaw drivers being mobilised to display boards reading "I Know Marathi" on their vehicles.

The initiative, announced on Wednesday, has quickly drawn attention across political and social circles, sparking both praise and criticism.

MNS leader Sanjay Naik, speaking to the media, said that the campaign is not intended to target any community but rather to highlight the importance of the state's language and cultural identity.

He emphasised that Marathi is central to Maharashtra's heritage and that those living and working in the state should make an effort to learn it.

Naik added that learning the local language helps people integrate more easily into society and demonstrates respect for the culture.

In his remarks, the MNS leader acknowledged the contributions of North Indians who have lived in Maharashtra for decades, raising families and becoming an integral part of society.

He stressed that the campaign is not against them, but is meant to encourage awareness and respect for Marathi.

"I am fighting for the Marathi language. I am fluent in Hindi as well, but I want everyone to understand that Maharashtra has its own distinct identity and language. If one intends to live here, work here, and raise a family, then learning and using Marathi is essential," Naik said.

He also offered an apology if the campaign had inadvertently hurt anyone's sentiments.

The campaign has generated mixed reactions.

Supporters view it as a positive step toward preserving and promoting the local language, reinforcing pride in Maharashtra's cultural heritage.

Critics, however, say that it could be seen as exerting pressure in the name of regional identity, potentially alienating communities who already contribute significantly to the state's social and economic fabric.

By placing "I Know Marathi" boards on auto-rickshaws, the MNS hopes to create visibility and spark conversations about the importance of the language in everyday life.

Whether seen as a cultural assertion or a political move, the campaign underscores the ongoing debate in Maharashtra about balancing regional identity with inclusivity in a diverse society.

--IANS

sktr/khz

Lucknow, April 23 (IANS) Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) skipper Rishabh Pant admitted the batting unit has been falling short, adding that the need of the hour is to find solutions within the group after suffering a 40-run loss to Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 in Lucknow on Wednesday.

LSG squandered the advantage received from incisive spells of Mohammed Shami, Mohsin Khan, and Prince Yadav as their batters fell in a heap to suffer their fourth consecutive defeat of IPL 2026.

Chasing 160, a listless LSG folded for 119 in 18 overs - the slide triggered when skipper Rishabh Pant miscued to fall for a duck, as despite Mitchell Marsh hitting 55, it wasn’t enough for the hosts to suffer another defeat at home.

"I think it is difficult to explain. Like, it's definitely our batting is letting us down, but at the same time, we are disappointed as a team, as a group, but at the same time, you've got to keep finding ways. You have to look for answers inside, not outside, but that's how it is as of now," Pant said after the match ended.

He conceded the batting group could have shown more application, including himself. "See, definitely we could have taken some time while batting, and at the same time, you know, not making any excuse out there, like including myself in that. We could have taken it a little deeper because I think the bowlers did a fantastic job, especially after the last game. As a batting group, we need to put our hand up and try to finish that job for the bowlers also," he added.

Pant, however, remained optimistic about the side’s prospects of bouncing back in the competition. "There is still a lot we want to look at the positive side. We all know it's disappointing for us as a team, but we have to keep our head high and look for answers inside, and we surely know that we have enough firepower in our bowling and batting, and we can still turn it around. That's what I believe in."

Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag lauded his bowlers for adapting to conditions and delivering under pressure despite a modest total. "Very pleased. Firstly, I feel we were really short with the bat. The way the wicket was playing when me and Hetty were batting, I think we've got to be better.

“I thought, honestly, even with the situation we had, we were close to getting 180, and that would have been a really good score because I knew it was going to be slowing down later, but the bowlers... No, it's because of the wickets that we won," he said.

He also credited the group’s adaptability in RR, moving to second place in the points table. "At the start of the tournament, the message of the group was that we will be a team that assesses and adapts, and I feel in the last two games, the wickets we got, they adapted really well, and they batted according to the wicket and not just how they wanted to bat.

“It's nothing to do with the middle order not scoring or whatever it is. If they get a flat wicket, they go guns blazing. If they get another wicket like this, they can take some time, and then we move on from there. They're complementing each other."

Parag also praised his seamers’ discipline in the Power-play. "I'm blessed. I mean, for two bowlers to bowl 3-3 overs in the power play at this stage of the game, or how T20 cricket is evolving, it's just commendable. The wicket was helping a little more to the seamers in the first innings, but then in the second innings, we knew it would swing, but the lengths they bowled, the lines they bowled, and the way we feel it, impressive."

Reflecting on his own form, Parag acknowledged the support from teammates and promised that a big knock from his bat will come soon. "Everyone has been very supportive. I've been going through a phase as well. Right before the IPL, I had gone through something, and then even now I'm going through something, and everyone understands that.

“Everyone respects that, and I thank them for that. I feel the way I'm batting, and innings are not too far away, but as I've been saying, if I go in tomorrow and I play another game, it's going to be what the team needs.

“It's not me not scoring runs and taking my time getting 40 or 30. That's not going to happen. I go out there, assess conditions. If they want me to go to 200 from ball one, I do that," he concluded.

--IANS

nr/bsk/

Bhubaneswar, April 22 (IANS) The Odisha Cabinet on Wednesday approved eight key proposals, including the Odisha City Gas Distribution (CGD) Policy, aimed at boosting Piped Natural Gas (PNG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) infrastructure across the state in line with the broader push for clean and sustainable energy.

The proposals, spanning eight departments, received Cabinet approval at a meeting held at Lok Seva Bhawan under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday.

Briefing mediapersons after the meeting, Chief Secretary Anu Garg said, “As you all know, following the developments in West Asia, stress is being laid on the use of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) instead of LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas). The aim of the policy is to ensure that PNG reaches cities and institutions across the state. The Government of India is laying significant emphasis on this. It will be a step towards Atmanirbhar Bharat.”

She added that the policy would help ease bottlenecks in expanding PNG infrastructure across urban centres by addressing existing challenges such as multi-agency approvals and the absence of a unified regulatory framework.

The City Gas Distribution (CGD) Policy is expected to facilitate faster project implementation through streamlined procedures. The Housing and Urban Development Department will act as the nodal agency, supported by a State-level High-Powered Committee and District Monitoring Committees.

According to an official statement, “With no financial burden on the state exchequer, the policy is expected to attract private investment, generate employment opportunities, and enhance ease of doing business. A one-time moratorium on approval fees till March 2027 has also been proposed.”

The Cabinet also approved the Odisha State Data Policy 2.0, which aims to institutionalise a comprehensive and robust data governance framework covering the entire data lifecycle, including the collection, storage, processing, and utilisation of data generated by government departments and associated organisations.

“To ensure effective implementation, the Cabinet has approved a multi-tier governance framework, with the State Data Steering Committee and State Data Governance Committee providing strategic direction and oversight. A State Data Authority will guide governance, protection, interoperability, and capacity building, while OCAC will function as the nodal agency for coordination, monitoring, and technical support. Department-level Committees will ensure compliance and execution,” the government said.

Additionally, the Cabinet approved the construction of a high-level bridge over the Kathajodi river on the upstream side of the existing Subash Chandra Bose Setu, aimed at providing a direct link between Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.

The project is expected to ease congestion on National Highway-16 and improve connectivity between the twin cities. The Cabinet approved the lowest turnkey bid of Rs 158.88 crore (excluding GST), awarded to M/s SPS Construction India Pvt Ltd.

The project is targeted for completion within 36 months and is expected to enhance connectivity between Bhubaneswar Airport and Nandankanan Zoological Park, improving travel time and traffic flow.

The Cabinet also approved several other proposals, including a plan by Shree Ambica Cotspin Pvt. Ltd. to establish a state-of-the-art yarn manufacturing (spinning) unit in Bolangir district.

The project is seen as a significant step in the state’s strategy to promote industrial development in the KBK region and other Aspirational Districts.

--IANS

gyan/pgh

Johannesburg, April 22 (IANS) Explosive half-centuries from Shafali Verma and captain Harmanpreet Kaur propelled India to a mammoth 192/4, their highest-ever women’s T20I total against South Africa, in the third T20I at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on Wednesday.

In a clinical display of power-hitting, India’s batting unit finally found its rhythm to post a daunting target in what is a must-win clash for them to keep the series alive. Shafali laid the foundation with a brisk 64 off 46 balls, laced with eight fours and two sixes, while Harmanpreet provided the late-innings fireworks with a blistering 66 off 38 deliveries, studded with seven fours and three sixes.

India’s intent was clear from the first ball. Smriti Mandhana (37 off 25 balls) got the scoreboard ticking immediately with two boundaries off Ayanda Hlubi. Shafali Verma joined the act in the second over, carving Annerie Dercksen for consecutive boundaries.

The pair utilised the fielding restrictions effectively, with Mandhana launching Tumi Sekhukhune for a massive six over backward square leg in the sixth over. By the end of the Powerplay, India had raced to 51/0, establishing a perfect platform for a big total.

The introduction of left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba (2-31) briefly stalled India’s momentum. In a dramatic ninth over, Nonkululeko struck twice in two balls – Smriti holed out to deep mid-wicket, while Jemimah Rodrigues top-edged a sweep to short fine leg and fell for a golden duck.

At 68/2, the onus fell on Harmanpreet and Shafali to steady the ship. Harmanpreet survived an early scare when she was dropped at backward point, a mistake that would prove costly for the Proteas. After India crossed the 100-run mark in the 12th over, Shafali brought up her 16th T20I fifty in style in the 13th over with a thumping drive off Nonkululeko.

The duo shifted gears in the 14th over by looting 16 runs off Tumi Sekhukhune. But their stand eventually ended at 73 runs when Nadine de Klerk dismissed Shafali, who pulled a short delivery straight to deep square leg. However, the dismissal brought Richa Ghosh (18 not out off 10 balls) to the crease, who immediately ramped up the scoring with a towering six over mid-wicket.

Harmanpreet, meanwhile, reached her 16th T20I fifty in the 18th over off 33 balls with a straight drive for four off Nadine. The final over from Tumi was particularly expensive, yielding 16 runs, as Harmanpreet smoked two massive sixes - one over deep mid-wicket and another over deep square leg.

But she was run out on the final ball of the innings while attempting a risky second run. By then, India crossed the 190-mark, thanks to a blistering stand of 51 off 26 balls between her and Richa.

Brief scores:

India 192/4 in 20 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 66, Shafali Verma 64; Nonkululeko Mlaba 2-31, Nadine de Klerk 1-27) against South Africa

--IANS

nr/bsk/

Lucknow, April 22 (IANS) Ravindra Jadeja’s unbeaten 43 off 29 balls, along with a terrific haul of 3-20 by Jofra Archer, helped Rajasthan Royals successfully defend a modest total to defeat Lucknow Super Giants by 40 runs in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 encounter at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Wednesday.

In a low-scoring encounter, Jadeja top-scored to take RR to a respectable 159/6 in their 20 overs. His unbeaten 49-run stand with impact player Shubham Dubey, who made 19 not out off 11 balls, gave RR bowlers a fighting chance in the match, after LSG’s pace trio Mohammed Shami, Mohsin Khan, and Prince Yadav took two scalps each.

Defending 159, the lowest score defended in this season, RR’s bowlers were right on the money from the word go, and backed by some superb fielding, they consigned LSG to their fourth consecutive loss of the competition.

Archer found support in Nandre Burger and Brijesh Sharma, who picked two scalps each, while Ravindra Jadeja and Ravi Bishnoi had one wicket each as LSG were bowled out for just 119 in 18 overs, as RR have now moved to second place in the points table.

Opting to bowl first, LSG didn’t have the best of starts as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi hit six boundaries between themselves in the first three overs. But RR’s explosive start was derailed in the third over when Shami struck twice in two balls.

He bowled a sharp bouncer to remove Jaiswal, who tried to hook, and an airborne Rishabh Pant leapt to grab the catch with an outstretched right hand. One brought two for Shami as he got one to nip away and take Dhruv Jurel’s outside edge, as Pant dived to his right to dismiss him for a duck.

The pressure intensified as Mohsin nailed his lengths and became the first bowler in IPL history to bowl a maiden over to teenage sensation Sooryavanshi, as he eventually forced him into mistiming a loft to cover, while having Shimron Hetmyer to give a leading edge to mid-off.

Prince then ensured there was no middle-order recovery as he dismissed Riyan Parag, who holed out to long-on, and later removed Donovan Ferreira by having him caught at third man to leave RR reeling at 110/6.

RR were staring at a sub-par total before Jadeja took charge. Biding his time initially, Jadeja exploded in the final over by picking 20 runs off Mayank Yadav (0-56), bowling in his first game of the season. Supported by Dubey, Jadeja ensured RR had a great finish to their innings, something which felt improbable at the 15-over mark.

LSG’s chase of 160 began chaotically - on the final ball of the opening over, Ayush Badoni was run out for a duck following a massive mix-up. Captain Rishabh Pant’s inconsistent run continued when he fell for a three-ball duck in the second over, top-edging off Burger to the keeper Dhruv Jurel.

With head coach Justin Langer going to the dressing room from the dugout, the nightmare deepened for LSG when Archer returned to remove Aiden Markram for a duck with a steep bouncer, leaving them reeling at 16/3. By the end of the Powerplay, despite a six from Marsh, LSG were gasping at 31/3.

Mitchell Marsh fought a lonely battle, reaching a 39-ball fifty, but found no support. Nicholas Pooran (22) holed out to long-on off Ravindra Jadeja, as the middle-order crumbled under the pressure of a rising required run rate.

Ravi Bishnoi entered the fray to clean up Himmat Singh (15) with a quicker delivery, before Burger returned in the 16th over to claim the big scalp of Marsh, who made 55 off 42 balls laced with six fours and two sixes. Brijesh effectively ended the contest in the 17th over by removing Mukul Choudhary and Mohammed Shami in quick succession.

Archer then returned to apply the finishing touches - a spectacular catch from Jurel led to the dismissal of Mayank Yadav before he flattened Mohsin Khan’s middle stump with a pacy delivery to end LSG’s misery and give RR their first away win of the ongoing season.

Brief scores:

Rajasthan Royals 159/6 in 20 overs (Ravindra Jadeja 43 not out, Yashasvi Jaiswal 22; Mohsin Khan 2-17, Prince Yadav 2-29) beat Lucknow Super Giants 119 in 18 overs (Mitchell Marsh 55, Nicholas Pooran 22; Jofra Archer 3-20, Brijesh Sharma 2-18) by 40 runs

--IANS

nr/bsk/

New Delhi, April 22 (IANS) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the TKMS submarine building facility in Kiel, Germany, during his ongoing official visit, where he was briefed on advanced Naval technologies and capabilities.

He was accompanied by German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius during the visit to the shipbuilding facility, which is known for manufacturing cutting-edge submarines.

In a post on X, the Defence Minister on Wednesday described the visit as "insightful", highlighting the technological advancements and operational capabilities showcased at the facility.

He noted that the interaction provided a closer understanding of modern submarine construction and developments in the maritime domain, which are increasingly significant in the context of global security and strategic cooperation.

The visit included a tour of the submarine yard and interactions with officials, during which aspects related to design, engineering, and deployment capabilities were explained.

Photographs shared by him showed the Defence Minister at the dockyard with senior officials from India and Germany, interacting with his counterparts and being briefed on various features of the platform.

He said that such engagements would be mutually beneficial in strengthening cooperation between the two countries in the maritime domain.

The visit comes amid growing defence ties between India and Germany, with a focus on technology sharing, joint development, and strengthening naval capabilities.

India has been looking to enhance its submarine fleet and overall maritime strength, and engagements with countries like Germany are part of that broader strategic effort.

Earlier on Wednesday, Rajnath Singh held a meeting with his German counterpart Boris Pistorius in Berlin, discussing deepening defence cooperation and tackling emerging geopolitical challenges.

The two ministers discussed bilateral security and defence issues, including priority areas for co-development and co-production of defence equipment, especially in the field of niche technologies. They also reaffirmed the commitment to enhance military-to-military cooperation as a key pillar of the Strategic Partnership, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Defence.

India and Germany also signed Defence Industrial Roadmap and Implementing Arrangement for Cooperation in UN Peacekeeping.

"Delighted to meet Mr. Boris Pistorius, Federal Minister of Defence, Germany in Berlin. Exchanged views on a wide range of issues including deepening our defence cooperation and tackling emerging geopolitical challenges. Witnessed signing of the Defence Industrial Roadmap and Implementing Arrangement for Cooperation in UN Peacekeeping," Rajnath Singh posted on X.

The Defence Minister termed his visit to Germany as a symbol of deep friendship, synergy and trust.

Rajnath Singh mentioned that the recent India-EU Security and Defence Partnership marks a significant step in deepening the collective engagement. The two ministers agreed to leverage this framework, bilaterally and in the wider European context for tangible outcomes that will strengthen regional stability, enhance joint capabilities, and reinforce the enduring Indo-German strategic alignment.

--IANS

pgh/dan

Lucknow, April 22 (IANS) A terrific Jofra Archer picked 3-20 as Rajasthan Royals' bowlers produced a masterclass in successfully defending a modest total to defeat Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by 40 runs in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 encounter at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.

Defending 159, the lowest score defended in this season, RR’s bowlers were right on the money from the word go, and backed by some superb fielding, they consigned LSG to their fourth consecutive loss of the season.

Archer found support in Nandre Burger and Brijesh Sharma, who picked two scalps each, while Ravindra Jadeja and Ravi Bishnoi had one wicket each as LSG were bowled out for just 119 in 18 overs, as RR have made a move to second place in the points table.

LSG’s chase began chaotically - on the final ball of the opening over, Ayush Badoni was run out for a duck following a massive mix-up. Captain Rishabh Pant’s inconsistent run continued when he fell for a three-ball duck in the second over, top-edging off Burger to the keeper Dhruv Jurel.

With head coach Justin Langer going to the dressing room from the dugout, the nightmare deepened for LSG when Archer returned to remove Aiden Markram for a duck with a steep bouncer, leaving them reeling at 16/3. By the end of the Powerplay, despite a six from Marsh, LSG were gasping at 31/3.

Mitchell Marsh fought a lonely battle, reaching a 39-ball fifty, but found no support. Nicholas Pooran (22) holed out to long-on off Ravindra Jadeja, as the middle-order crumbled under the pressure of a rising required run rate.

Ravi Bishnoi entered the fray to clean up Himmat Singh (15) with a quicker delivery, before Burger returned in the 16th over to claim the big scalp of Marsh, who made 55 off 42 balls laced with six fours and two sixes. Brijesh effectively ended the contest in the 17th over by removing Mukul Choudhary and Mohammed Shami in quick succession.

Archer then returned to apply the finishing touches - a spectacular catch from Jurel led to the dismissal of Mayank Yadav before he flattened Mohsin Khan’s middle stump with a pacy delivery to end LSG’s misery and give RR their first away win of the ongoing season.

Brief scores:

Rajasthan Royals 159/6 in 20 overs (Ravindra Jadeja 43 not out, Yashasvi Jaiswal 22; Mohsin Khan 2-17, Prince Yadav 2-29) beat Lucknow Super Giants 119 in 18 overs (Mitchell Marsh 55, Nicholas Pooran 22; Jofra Archer 3-20, Brijesh Sharma 2-18) by 40 runs

--IANS

nr/bsk/

Bhubaneswar, April 22 (IANS) The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Odisha Police has arrested a bank employee, who is currently placed under suspension, on charges of misappropriating public funds to the tune of Rs 5.21 crore, a senior police official said on Wednesday.

The accused identified as Prashanta Kumar Mallick was working as Senior Associate-cum-Cash In-charge and also performing the duties as a gold appraiser at State Bank of India's (SBI) Balichandrapur branch in Jagatsinghpur district.

The EOW arrested Mallick in connection with a case registered on February 10, 2026, based on a complaint lodged by Peeyus Ranjan Swain, SBI Regional Manager at Jagatsinghpur.

Swain, in the complaint, alleged that during the period from October 2024 to July 2025, the accused Mallick, as a gold appraiser, misappropriated public money to the tune of Rs 5,21,42,000 by sanctioning and disbursing 105 gold loans without proper documentation or original gold ornaments.

Mallick's duty as a gold appraiser is to appraise and verify gold ornaments with the help of goldsmith, ensuring eligibility and compliance with required documents, recommending gold loans for sanction, maintaining custody of executed loan documents and joint custody of pledged gold ornaments along with the Service Manager.

The police during investigation found that during a routine visit by Manorama Rout, SBI Chief Manager at Balasore, in the year 2025, accused Mallick failed to produce files concerning the gold loans sanctioned by the SBI's Balichandrapur branch.

He later absconded from there without any intimation.

"Suspecting foul play, Rout conducted an immediate spot audit of gold loan accounts, followed by a detailed internal investigation, and found that accused Mallick had fraudulently processed 105 gold loan accounts, of which 31 involved pledging spurious or fake gold ornaments, while 74 were sanctioned without any gold ornaments," the EOW official noted.

The senior official also said that several loan documents, including goldsmith valuation reports, were missing and that borrower signatures had been forged.

The investigation also revealed that Mallick, after sanctioning and disbursing the loans, deliberately diverted the funds to his own and other accounts and misappropriated them.

Following the investigation, the EOW sleuths arrested the absconding accused Mallick from Bhubaneswar on April 21.

He was on Wednesday produced before the court that later sent him to judicial custody.

--IANS

gyan/khz

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

sj/rad

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

sps/svn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

--IANS

na/vd

Mumbai, April 22 (IANS) Actress Parineeti Chopra's latest social media post is all about self-love, and doing that makes you happy from within.

Taking to the Stories section of her official Instagram handle, the 'Chamkila' actress advised all to be kind to themselves and stop stressing over little things.

Parineeti stressed the importance of cherishing the little pleasures of life in the post that read, "Stop stressing over little things. Be kind to your body- move it, nourish it, stop criticizing it. One day you’ll wish you had appreciated it. Go outside. Look at the sky. Feel the sun. Just be. (sic)"

The 'Kesari' actress also said that it is crucial to express themselves and tell their loved ones how they feel.

"Spend less time chasing “stuff” - more time making memories. Don’t skip moments with people you love. Laugh more. Write a note. Tell someone you love them. Complain less. Give more. Helping others brings more joy than anything you can buy. Be present. Put your phone down. Show up - really show up," added Parineeti.

She further pointed out how much joy simply being there for someone can bring.

Parineeti said that while it is not important to have each and every aspect of your life figured out, what matters is to do the things that bring you joy and refrain from the actions that leave you drained.

"Laugh more. Write a note. Tell someone you love them. Complain less. Give more. Helping others brings more joy than anything you can buy. Be present. Put your phone down. Show up – really show up. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You don’t need a perfect body, or a perfect life. Just follow what makes your heart light up. Say no to what drains you. Make changes when you need to," concluded the post.

--IANS

pm/

Los Angeles, April 22 (IANS) Hollywood actor Eddie Murphy has set some clear boundaries when it comes to sharing parenting secrets.

The actor refuses to give his son advice about being a parent, reports ‘Female First UK’.

After his son Eric Murphy, 36, welcomed a baby girl with Jasmin Lawrence, 30, the daughter of actor Martin Lawrence, 61, Eddie, the 65-year-old actor best known for ‘Beverly Hills Cop’, revealed he is totally reluctant to dish out his wisdom as a dad on how the couple should raise their daughter Ari Skye as he is convinced they will not pay attention to anything he has to say, even though he is a father of 10.

Eddie revealed during an interview with E! News at the American Film Institute Achievement Award ceremony the pair had welcomed their first baby, months after Eric and Jasmin shared news of the pregnancy via Instagram, following their marriage last May.

The actor said about the couple, “They just had a baby girl. They just had her two weeks ago, or a week ago. Yeah, Ari. Ari Skye”.

Asked whether he or Martin had offered parenting advice, Eddie shared, “Oh, you don’t give advice like that. You know, your kids don’t go by your advice. Your kids go by the example you set. They watch you. The stuff you be saying, they don’t even pay that s*** no mind. They watch and see what you do. So, I don’t give a lot of advice”.

As per ‘Female First UK’, Eric and Jasmin first announced they were expecting their first child together in February, sharing a series of black-and-white photographs on Instagram.

In the images, Jasmin was seen wearing an off-the-shoulder dress highlighting her pregnancy, while Eric rested his head on her stomach and looks toward the camera.

The couple wrote, “Thank you Jesus for the greatest gift”. Later in February, they marked the upcoming arrival of their daughter with a baby shower, sharing images from the event with family and friends on social media.

--IANS

aa/

Mumbai, April 22 (IANS) Actor Fardeen Khan got a chance to enjoy a fun father-daughter dance with his little princess Diani Isabella Khan.

Expressing his joy and gratitude at getting an opportunity to live such a precious moment, Fardeen dropped a video on his official social media handle, where he can be seen twirling with his daughter.

The father and daughter duo seem to be having a blast while grooving on a peppy number.

Posting the clip on Instagram, Fardeen wrote, "They say a father’s first dance with his daughter is a privilege unlike any other — and a few days ago I finally understood why. (sic)"

"Twelve years of watching my little sunshine grow, and somehow she’s still my little girl, twirling in my arms — and I hope she always remains so. This one’s mine to keep forever," he went on to add.

Reacting to the post, Zayed Khan commented, "Supeeeeeerrrrrrbbbbbb!!", followed by a red heart emoji.

For those who do not know, Fardeen and Zayed are first cousins. Fardeen's father, Feroz Khan, and Zayed's father, Sanjay Khan, are brothers.

Zayed's sister and Hrithik Roshan's former wife, Sussanne Khan, wrote, "Omggggggggod far this is preciousssssss…. Love uuuuu both to the moon".

Actress Manisha Koirala added, "Soooooo cute!!!!"

Work-wise, Fardeen will soon be seen as Shah Jahan in the highly talked about biographical drama, "Raja Shivaji".

Written and directed by Riteish Deshmukh, the project is based on the life of Shivaji, the founder of the Maratha Empire.

Backed by Genelia Deshmukh and Jyoti Deshpande under the banners of Mumbai Film Company and Jio Studios, the movie enjoys an ensemble cast led by Riteish with Sanjay Dutt, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahesh Manjrekar, Sachin Khedekar, Bhagyashree, Jitendra Joshi, Amole Gupte, and Genelia playing crucial roles.

"Raja Shivaji" is set for a theatrical release on 1 May.

--IANS

pm/

Los Angeles, April 22 (IANS) Director Shawn Levy is batting for the AI. The director feels that AI will become an "essential" filmmaking tool in the future.

The ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ director believes movie makers should "embrace" artificial intelligence, rather than "fear" it, but he is yet to use AI "in any meaningful way" during his storytelling career, reports ‘Female First UK’.

He told ‘Variety’, "To date, I’ve not incorporated AI in any meaningful way in any phase of my storytelling process, but I have no doubt that in the course of my career we will see its integration. To the point that many smarter people than I have made, it’s about integrating these technologies responsibly and with still the primacy of the creative voice and not a potential replacement for that voice because I think that what you get from creative voice and vision is singular and irreplicable”.

He further mentioned, “But, if we can use these emerging AI capacities to support storytelling in still a kind of creative and human first workflow then I think it’s something to embrace, not fear. I spend a part of everyday trying to increase my fluency around the regulatory options surrounding (AI). I think it’s going to be essential, but I think to hide our heads in the sand and pretend that it’s not going to be not just an emergent but an essential part of our lives, not just filmmaking lives, (but) lives lives, I think that would be naive and foolish”.

As per ‘Female First UK’, the director will release space opera movie ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’, which features Ryan Gosling, Matt Smith, Mia Goth, Amy Adams and Aaron Pierre, on May 28, 2027, and he is enjoying not having to rush the editing process with just over a year to go until release.

He continued, “I’m in the beautiful sanctity of the edit room. We don’t come out until next year, and so it’s a rare movie where I don’t have a release date looming. So I’m in the dark quiet of the edit room finding the best possible shape for the film”.

In January, Levy said how he wants ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ to be "epic and intimate", like ‘Stranger Things’.

He told The Hollywood Reporter, "If I’ve learned anything on Stranger Things, it’s that you can get intimidated by the scale of franchise expectation. But you will lose your way if that’s your focus”.

“I’ve learned the need to stay rooted in character, and themes and relationships on screen. Yes, there’s spectacle and scale, just like Stranger Things. And of course, Star Wars and Starfighter has spectacle and scale and adventure at a level I’ve never done in my whole career. But like Stranger Things, it’s also very much anchored in a human scale, character-sized story. I think that if I can balance the epic and the intimate the way (show creators Matt and Ross Duffer) have with Stranger Things, I’ll make a movie and an original and new Star Wars adventure that can be really satisfying to fans and audiences”, he added.

--IANS

aa/