Author: Vividh Bharathi

McMaster warns on China tech threat

Washington, April 18 (IANS) Former US National Security Adviser Lt Gen (rtd) H. R. McMaster said the United States and its allies must move quickly to secure critical technologies and supply chains as strategic competition with China intensifies.

Speaking at a panel discussion at the Thrive 2026 conference at Stanford University, McMaster said years of globalisation had left Western economies exposed by prioritising efficiency over resilience. “We became complacent,” he said, warning that supply chains are now vulnerable in a period of renewed great power rivalry.

“China in particular has weaponised its status as a marketplace economic model against our free market economies,” McMaster said, adding that the challenge spans artificial intelligence, supercomputing, energy and material sciences.

​He described the competition as part of a broader effort by China and others to reshape global rules. These actors, he said, seek to replace the current system with one aligned to “their authoritarian form of government.”

​On emerging technologies, McMaster said it would be difficult to establish shared global standards. “It’s unrealistic to assume that the Chinese Communist Party leadership will sign up… for the rules that we would think are in our interests,” he said.

​He urged companies and investors to adopt stricter safeguards. He proposed a “Hippocratic oath” for boardrooms to ensure firms do not aid adversaries or undermine long-term interests.

​“Don’t help our potential enemies develop weapon systems… Don’t help an authoritarian regime extinguish human freedom… and don’t compromise the long-term viability of your company,” he said.

​McMaster pointed to past US investments in Chinese firms linked to military and surveillance systems as examples of the risks involved. He said intellectual property theft and state-backed competition remain persistent concerns.

​He also highlighted weaknesses in supply chains for critical minerals. Environmental regulations in the West, he said, had pushed processing capacity to China.

​“A lot of people were well motivated… they just exported the pollution to China,” he said, calling for new investment in extraction and refining technologies.

McMaster said rebuilding supply chains would require coordination with allies. He cited sectors such as shipbuilding and semiconductors where multinational cooperation is essential.

​At the same time, he cautioned against restricting academic exchanges. Limiting foreign students in US universities would be a “tremendous mistake,” he said, while calling for tighter screening in sensitive research areas.

​On Taiwan, he warned that the risk of disruption to semiconductor supplies is rising. Any blockade or coercive action by China would be “a disaster for the global economy,” he said.

​McMaster said governments may need to act where markets fall short. “It’s free market versus the public good of national security,” he said, adding that some economic costs may be unavoidable.

–IANS

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IPL 2026: Gill’s masterclass trumps Green’s lone hand as GT hand KKR fifth loss (ld)

Ahmedabad, April 18 (IANS) Skipper Shubman Gill continued with his good knack of making a truckload of runs at Narendra Modi Stadium – this time by smashing a serene 86 to guide Gujarat Titans (GT) to a comfortable five-wicket victory over a struggling Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday.

While Gill’s 50-ball masterclass, laced with eight fours and four sixes coming at a strike-rate of 172, ensured GT’s dominance for the majority of the chase, it also condemned KKR to their fifth defeat in this season, leaving them rooted to the bottom of the table.

Though KKR fought hard and took the game deep, Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan kept their head calm to complete the chase after a few nervy moments with two balls to spare and make it a hat-trick of victories for GT, the IPL 2022 winners, as they are now at fourth spot on the points table.

Three-time champions KKR would be left ruing the lack of support from their batting group, minus Finn Allen to Cameron Green, who finally came good by hitting a superb 79 off 55 balls. But the collapses meant they made 180 in their 20 overs, after being certain to reach 200 at one point.

Despite Green’s fine knock, laced with seven fours and four sixes, KKR lost their last six wickets for just 33 runs in the final phase of the innings. Kagiso Rabada was the pick of the bowlers for GT, returning figures of 3-33, while Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna played vital roles in stifling the KKR batters, though Ashok Sharma and Rashid Khan were expensive.

Pushed into bowling first after KKR elected to bat, Siraj struck in the very first over as skipper Ajinkya Rahane skewed an outswinger to mid-on and fell for a golden duck. Rabada then doubled the misery in the second over by having Angkrish Raghuvanshi nick behind to the keeper. When Tim Seifert (12) slapped a short delivery from Siraj straight to point, KKR were reeling at 32/3 in four overs.

KKR’s recovery was initially sparked by Rovman Powell, who hit a cameo of 27 off 20 balls, including two massive sixes, shifting the pressure back onto the GT bowlers. His 55-run stand with Green, who timed the ball really well, steadied the ship before Ashok Sharma deceived him with a 107kph slower ball.

Green, who was struggling on 27 off 29 balls at one stage, suddenly found his groove in the 12th over by launching Rashid for a six and a four. He took a particular liking to the spinners, scoring 33 off just 18 balls against them. His 60-run partnership off 23 balls with Anukul Roy saw KKR gallop from 87/4 to 139/4 in the space of three overs.

However, the dismissal of Roy (9) by Prasidh Krishna in the 15th over triggered a sensational slide. Rinku Singh’s poor run continued as he fell to Rabada, while Ramandeep Singh (17) holed out after a brief flurry of boundaries.

In a bizarre final stretch, Green, who had reached 75 off 44 balls, became a virtual spectator at the non-striker’s end as wickets tumbled, with the seam-bowling all-rounder facing only two of them during that sequence. Green managed only four runs off his final 11 deliveries before being caught behind off the last ball of the innings off Rashid to end a weird innings for KKR.

Chasing 181, Gill was in sublime touch from the outset, unleashing a trademark exhibition of high-elbow drives, short-arm jabs, and delectable flicks. He found an able ally in B Sai Sudharsan (22), who smacked Anukul Roy for two majestic sixes, as GT raced to 50 in just 4.2 overs.

Though Sunil Narine broke the 71-run opening stand by dismissing Sudharsan, who top-edged to short fine leg, Jos Buttler joined in to keep the momentum going with a brisk 25 off 15 balls, before holing out to the deep on a googly from Varun Chakaravarthy, who got his first wicket of IPL 2026.

Despite Washington Sundar falling to Chakaravarthy, Gill reached his half-century off 27 deliveries and continued to hit a flurry of boundaries. He looked destined for making a hundred before a moment of brilliance by Cameron Green at deep backward point ended his stay. Gill’s dismissal triggered a slight wobble as KKR’s bowlers took the game into the final over.

With five runs needed off the final over, Ramandeep Singh removed Glenn Phillips (19) on the first ball to spark a glimmer of hope for KKR. But Tewatia and impact sub Shahrukh remained calm to seal the win for GT.

Brief scores:

Kolkata Knight Riders 180 all out in 20 overs (Cameron Green 79, Rovman Powell 27; Kagiso Rabada 3-29, Mohammed Siraj 2-23) lost to Gujarat Titans 181/5 in 19.4 overs (Shubman Gill 86, Jos Buttler 25; Varun Chakaravarthy 2-34, Ramandeep Singh 1-5) by five wickets

–IANS

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IAF aircraft incident renders Pune runway temporarily unavailable, crew safe

New Delhi/Pune, April 18 (IANS) The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Friday said that the runway at Pune airport has been temporarily rendered unavailable following an incident involving one of its aircraft, while confirming that the aircrew are safe and there has been no damage to civil property.

In a post on social media platform X, the IAF said the incident had affected runway operations, leading to a temporary disruption in flight movements at the airport.

“Pune runway is temporarily unavailable due to an incident involving an IAF aircraft. The aircrew are safe, and there is no damage to civil property. Efforts are underway to operationalise the runway and resume normal operations at the earliest,” the IAF said.

Details of the incident were not immediately available. However, standard safety protocols were initiated following the incident to ensure there was no risk to personnel or infrastructure.

Airport authorities are coordinating with the IAF to restore runway operations at the earliest.

Flight operations are expected to be affected until normalcy is restored, with airlines likely to adjust schedules accordingly.

Pune airport, which serves both civil and military operations, is among the key aviation hubs in Maharashtra. Any disruption in runway availability typically affects multiple arrivals and departures during peak hours.

Further information on the incident is awaited.

In a separate development on Thursday, a SpiceJet aircraft collided with a stationary Akasa Air plane at Delhi airport, resulting in minor damage to both aircraft, though no injuries were reported.

The incident occurred around 2.15 p.m. when the SpiceJet aircraft, arriving from Leh, was taxiing towards its designated bay and came into contact with the Akasa Air plane, which was preparing for departure to Hyderabad.

Initial reports indicated that the right winglet of the SpiceJet aircraft was damaged, while the left horizontal stabiliser of the Akasa Air aircraft was struck in the collision.

An Akasa Air spokesperson said that its aircraft operating flight QP 1406 from Delhi to Hyderabad returned to the bay following the incident.

“Preliminary information indicates that Akasa’s aircraft was stationary when another airline’s aircraft made contact with it,” the spokesperson said.

The airline said all passengers and crew were safely disembarked and that alternate arrangements were being made to operate the flight.

It added that the relevant authorities have been informed and the matter is under investigation, reiterating that safety remains its top priority.

–IANS

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Oppn has done ‘great disservice’ to nation: Chandrababu Naidu on Women’s Bill​

Amaravati, April 18 (IANS) Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said on Friday that by blocking the Women’s Reservation Bill, the Congress-led Opposition has denied India a historic step towards women’s empowerment.​

“This is not just political obstruction, it is a betrayal of millions of women who deserve equal voice and rightful representation in Parliament. The nation will remember,” he posted on ‘X’.​

In another post, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) president said that by defeating the Delimitation and Constitutional Amendment Bill, the Opposition parties have done a great disservice to the nation.​

He wrote that with the freeze under Article 81 set to end after the first Census conducted post-2026, the forthcoming census exercise will reset seat distribution purely on population, potentially leading to a steep decline in representation for Southern, North-Eastern, and smaller states.​

Naidu added that the National Democratic Alliance’s proposal was a sincere effort to preserve federal balance, protect the voice of Southern, North-Eastern, and smaller states, and ensure 33 per cent representation for women. He said it recognised that states which have performed well on key development indicators should not be penalised in the democratic structure.

“It is unfortunate that political agendas have prevailed over long-term national interest. Those celebrating this outcome must introspect; we have lost an opportunity to secure a fair and constitutional safeguard for rightful representation,” he noted.​

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan slammed the Opposition parties, saying they have squandered a golden opportunity to enhance women’s empowerment within legislative bodies.​

He said that had the Opposition also supported the Women’s Reservation Bill, they too would have earned respect. He expressed hope that, in the days to come, women will secure their rightful place in the legislature.​

As Jana Sena Party president, Kalyan added, “As a partner in the National Democratic Alliance, the Jana Sena Party welcomes the initiative taken by the Honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, in bringing this Bill before the Lok Sabha. Had this Bill been passed, women across the length and breadth of India would have rejoiced immensely.”​

–IANS

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Defeat of Constitution Bills victory for states: BJD​

Bhubaneswar, April 18 (IANS) Senior MP and BJD Parliamentary Party leader in the Rajya Sabha, Manas Ranjan Mangaraj, on Friday hailed the defeat of the Women’s Reservation Bill in Parliament, saying it was effectively the defeat of the contentious Delimitation Bill (131st Constitutional Amendment).

He termed this a crucial victory for states like Odisha, which were likely to lose a significant share in the Lok Sabha with the passage of the Delimitation Bill.​

Taking to his X handle, Mangaraj on Friday wrote, “It was not the Women’s Reservation Bill but the contentious Delimitation Bill (131st Constitutional Amendment) that was defeated in Parliament today. This marks a crucial victory for states like Odisha, which were at risk of being deprived of their rightful share.”​

He also highlighted the efforts made by BJD president Naveen Patnaik to garner support from the state government and MPs from Odisha to oppose the Delimitation Bill. Mangaraj said the BJD supremo took a firm and proactive stand on this issue.​

The BJD leader further added that Patnaik not only raised strong concerns but also wrote to the Odisha Chief Minister and all MPs from the state, urging them to unite and safeguard Odisha’s interests.​

“Unfortunately, the 20 BJP MPs from Odisha failed to rise to the occasion. They chose to align with party directives rather than stand up for the state’s rights,” said Mangaraj.​

“ Nevertheless, truth has prevailed, and justice has been upheld. Despite limited representation in the Parliament, we take pride in our leader’s steadfast commitment to fighting for Odisha and its people,” he added.​

Meanwhile, reacting strongly to the failure of the Women’s Reservation Bill in the Lok Sabha, Odisha BJP Mahila Morcha President Aishwarya Biswal termed the development a “very sad day for democracy,” alleging that political considerations were placed above women’s empowerment.​

Notably, the Constitution Amendment Bills seeking to modify the women’s reservation law and increase the number of Lok Sabha seats for the 2029 general elections were defeated in the Lower House on Friday after two days of intense debate.

–IANS

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IFL 2025-26: Gokulam, Aizawl face crucial tests; Diamond Harbour look to maintain top spot

Kalyani/Aizawl, April 17 (IANS) Gokulam Kerala FC and Aizawl FC will look to secure away victories against Diamond Harbour FC and Shillong Lajong FC, respectively, in the Indian Football League (IFL) 2025-26 double-header on Saturday. The match between Diamond Harbour FC and Gokulam Kerala FC will be played at the Kalyani Stadium. Later in the evening, Shillong Lajong FC will host Aizawl FC at the SSA Football Stadium.

Diamond Harbour FC vs Gokulam Kerala FC

League leaders Diamond Harbour FC, who have been one of the standout sides this season, will look to extend their dominance at the top of the table. Having lost just once in eight matches and winning four of their last five, the West Bengal-based side comes into the fixture on the back of a 3-1 victory over Chanmari FC and currently holds a four-point lead at the top of the table.

Gokulam Kerala, meanwhile, are placed eighth after a mixed run, including a 6-2 defeat to Real Kashmir FC in their previous outing. However, they remain in contention for the Championship phase, with a win potentially lifting them to fifth place.

Gokulam head coach Dimitris Dimitriou expressed optimism despite recent setbacks, stating, “In my country, we say that as long as you are alive, there is still hope. We are prepared; the boys are very disciplined and have trained very well. We expect that tomorrow we are going to play a very good game to play for our chances to be in the first six.”

Assessing the opposition, Dimitriou said, “In football, numbers speak; it means they are a very good team. However, I must admit my players are also very good. I hope that tomorrow they show their abilities and perform as they deserve to get the three points,” while confirming that team selection will depend on the final medical report.

Diamond Harbour head coach Kibu Vicuña emphasised a game-by-game approach, stating, “Mentally, it’s like every game, every point is important. The points in the group stage are the same as in the top six or championship stage, and you carry them forward.”

“We know Gokulam Kerala is a historic club; we respect them, but we also have confidence in what we are doing,” Vicuña added.

Tactically, Gokulam Kerala face a stern test against Diamond Harbour’s attacking strength. With 17 goals, they are the league’s highest-scoring team, with Spanish midfielder Antonio Moyano playing a key role with four goals, joint second-highest in the league.

Gokulam Kerala are likely to rely on Thabiso Brown, Moses Lalrinzuala, and Rahul Raju, with all three having scored twice this season.

On being asked about his scoring form, Brown said, “I don’t think I’m struggling. I think it’s all about game time. We are mostly in the same position regarding match fitness and game time, and the coach talks to us every day before games about what we need to do to score goals.”

From the Diamond Harbour camp, forward Hugo Díaz highlighted the team environment, stating, “The atmosphere has been very positive since I arrived. The team is happy, and that helped me settle quickly.” On the challenge ahead, he added, “Gokulam is a very good team with strong players. It will be a difficult match, but we want to win and continue our momentum.”

Shillong Lajong FC vs Aizawl FC

Shillong Lajong FC will host Aizawl FC as the North-East rivals clash with contrasting stakes in the race for the Championship phase.

Shillong Lajong FC have already secured qualification for the Championship phase with 14 points from eight matches and will aim to strengthen their standing. Currently fourth, a win could push them into the top three and provide a crucial advantage heading into the next stage.

Aizawl FC, meanwhile, occupy the final qualifying spot in sixth place and face significant pressure heading into the derby. With teams close behind, a defeat could see them slip out of contention and be drawn into the relegation battle, making this encounter pivotal for their campaign.

Shillong Lajong head coach Birendra Thapa emphasised the importance of the fixture despite qualification being secured, stating, “We have already qualified for the top six, but tomorrow’s match is still very important; if we win, we can finish in the top three or even top two.”

He also highlighted the unique nature of the derby, noting, “Derby matches are not only about tactics, but they are about emotions, hunger, desire, and fighting spirit.”

Aizawl head coach R. Lalruatfela echoed a similarly determined tone, stating, “We take this match very seriously, we are prepared very well,” while adding that his side will look to “keep ball possession as much as possible on the ground” in line with their philosophy.

He acknowledged the challenge posed by Shillong, noting, “Shillong is also a good team, they like to play and keep the ball,” and admitted that home advantage could be significant, but maintained confidence in his players, adding, “We are prepared physically, mentally, and tactically, and I trust my boys.”

Shillong Lajong’s Jakob Vanlalhlimpuia highlighted the importance of the derby, especially against his former club, stating, “It’s a big match for me, once we are on the pitch, they are opponents. I will give my best and make it difficult for them.”

Aizawl midfielder C. Hriata reflected the confidence within the Aizawl camp, stating, “We have a good mood for this match, we will try our best to win this game,” and added that the team feels no pressure despite the expected home support, saying, “They have many fans, but my team-mates and I feel no pressure, their fans will be silent after this match.”

Historically, Shillong Lajong hold an edge in this fixture, though recent meetings have been closely contested, including a 4-4 draw in their last encounter. While Aizawl have shown attacking promise this season, defensive vulnerabilities remain a concern.

With Diamond Harbour aiming to tighten their grip at the top and both Gokulam Kerala and Aizawl FC battling to secure their place in the Championship phase, Saturday’s double-header is set to have a significant impact on the league standings.

–IANS

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K’taka govt hails success of ‘Bridge to Bengaluru’ diplomatic dialogue​

Bengaluru, April 17 (IANS) Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said on Friday that Karnataka is keen to strengthen partnerships with the world in technology, trade, innovation, and people-to-people collaboration.​

He was speaking at the “Bridge to Bengaluru” dialogue in New Delhi, which brought together ambassadors and diplomatic representatives from various countries.​

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar highlighted Karnataka’s position as a global innovation hub and a preferred investment destination. He said Bengaluru is not just a city to visit, but a place where dreams are built and the future is shaped. With its open culture, strong ecosystem, and high quality of life, the city continues to attract global talent, innovation, and investment, making it a city of opportunities.​

Information Technology and Biotechnology Minister Priyank Kharge, speaking on innovation-led growth and international partnerships, said Karnataka is not interested in passive partnerships limited to capital investment. Instead, the state is seeking long-term collaborations focused on tangible innovation outcomes.​

According to the official statement, diplomats from various countries praised Karnataka’s transformation from a technology hub into a key global innovation partner. They noted that the state offers strong policy support, assistance for start-ups to scale globally, research collaboration opportunities, and access to markets, making Bengaluru an attractive destination for investors and entrepreneurs.​

They also appreciated the state government’s proactive efforts through the “Bridge to Bengaluru” initiative to elevate Karnataka to new global heights.​

The event was described as one of India’s most significant diplomatic engagements led by a state government, with a focus on technology, innovation, and global partnerships.​

The dialogue was attended by Large and Medium Industries Minister M.B. Patil, senior officials from the electronics and other departments, and global industry leaders.​

More than 45 ambassadors and high commissioners, along with senior diplomatic representatives from over 80 countries, participated and shared their perspectives.​

Over 140 participants, including representatives from global organisations, industry, and government, took part in the event.​

The participation of leading international trade and investment organisations also stood out, marking an important step towards strengthening government-to-government and business-to-government collaborations.​

Diplomatic representatives from key partner countries, including Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, Denmark, France, Egypt, Malaysia, Japan, Germany, and Bhutan, took part in the dialogue. Several ambassadors highlighted the deepening and growing partnerships between Karnataka and their respective countries.​

They also appreciated the state government’s efforts to strengthen ties with India’s innovation ecosystem through structured platforms such as the Global Innovation Alliance (GIA).​

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who is also Bengaluru Development Minister, said Bengaluru is ahead of other cities in the country across all sectors. ​

He added that everyone who has come here and invested has earned profits and not suffered losses, and for this reason, those who come to Bengaluru do not wish to return.​

He recalled that about 20 years ago, former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee had visited Bengaluru and remarked that global leaders first come to Bengaluru before going to other cities in the country. ​

He added that PM Modi has also described Bengaluru as a global city.​

Responding to the media after the event, Shivakumar said leaders from across the world participated in this programme. ​

He noted that at the Tech Summit held last November, 60,000 entrepreneurs from 100 countries took part, and everyone has placed their trust in Bengaluru.​

–IANS

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Cong MLA Kulkarni conviction a conspiracy, alleges K’taka Dy CM Shivakumar

New Delhi/Bengaluru, April 17 (IANS) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress president D.K. Shivakumar on Friday alleged a BJP conspiracy behind the conviction of Congress MLA Vinay Kulkarni in the murder case of BJP leader and Zilla Panchayat member Yogesh Gowda.

Responding to media queries at Karnataka Bhavan in New Delhi, Shivakumar said Kulkarni had been “caught in trouble” due to a conspiracy and urged party workers not to lose courage.

“Vinay Kulkarni has been caught in trouble due to a BJP conspiracy. There is no need for him to lose courage. In politics, such struggles are inevitable, and he will fight through it,” he said.

Referring to the life sentence awarded by the court, Shivakumar said he respects the judiciary but maintained that Kulkarni had been implicated.

“I have respect for the court. There has been a major conspiracy in this case. During the filing of the B report, the CBI conducted an investigation and harassed him. Vinay Kulkarni has been implicated as part of this conspiracy,” he said.

He noted that there is a 30-day window to file an appeal and said he had spoken to Kulkarni’s family regarding the next steps.

“Swearing in the name of the God he believes in, he has said that he has not committed this mistake. Even today, I have faith in him,” Shivakumar said.

He, however, reiterated that the court’s verdict must be respected and assured support to Kulkarni’s family.

“We must respect the court’s verdict. In my view, he has not committed any wrongdoing. We will stand with his family and provide them moral support. Truth will ultimately prevail,” he added.

Drawing a parallel with his own experience, Shivakumar said he too had faced “conspiracies” in the past but eventually secured relief from the Supreme Court.

“In the end, I got justice in the Supreme Court. I am confident that justice will be delivered in the higher courts in this case as well,” he said.

When asked who was behind the alleged conspiracy, Shivakumar said he would speak on the matter at an appropriate time, while questioning the circumstances under which the case was handed over to the CBI.

“Former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa is now saying that he had said it earlier — how was that known in advance? BJP leaders have conspired because a leader was emerging as a strong political force in North Karnataka,” he alleged.

It may be recalled that a Special Court for MLAs/MPs in Bengaluru on Friday awarded double life imprisonment to Vinay Kulkarni and 16 other accused in connection with the murder of Yogesh Gowda.

The court awarded life imprisonment for criminal conspiracy and murder, with the sentences to run concurrently.

The court also directed payment of Rs 16 lakh as compensation to the victim’s family and imposed a total fine of Rs 12.50 lakh on the accused. Accused No. 1, Basavaraja Muttagi, was confirmed as an approver in the case.

Judge Santhosh Gajanana Bhat pronounced the verdict, under which Kulkarni, 57, will spend the remainder of his natural life in prison.

The court also sentenced accused No. 19, Channakeshava Tingarikar, a circle inspector, to seven years’ imprisonment for destruction of evidence.

–IANS

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IPL 2026: Shubman Gill hits 86 as GT keep KKR winless with five-wicket victory

Ahmedabad, April 17 (IANS) Skipper Shubman Gill continued his knack of making a truckload of runs at Narendra Modi Stadium – this time by smashing a serene 86 to guide Gujarat Titans (GT) to a comfortable five-wicket victory over a struggling Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Ahmedabad on Friday.

While Gill’s 50-ball masterclass, laced with eight fours and four sixes coming at a strike-rate of 172, ensured GT’s dominance for the majority of the chase, it also condemned KKR to their sixth consecutive defeat in this season, leaving them rooted to the bottom of the table.

Though KKR fought hard and took the game deep, Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan kept their head calm to complete the chase after a few nervy moments with two balls to spare and make it a hat-trick of victories for GT. KKR would be left ruing the lack of support from their batting group to Cameron Green, who finally came good by hitting a superb 79 off 55 balls.

Chasing 181, Gill was in sublime touch from the outset, unleashing a trademark exhibition of high-elbow drives, short-arm jabs, and delectable flicks. He found an able ally in B Sai Sudharsan (22), who smacked Anukul Roy for two majestic sixes, as GT raced to 50 in just 4.2 overs.

Though Sunil Narine broke the 71-run opening stand by dismissing Sudharsan, who top-edged to short fine leg, Jos Buttler joined in to keep the momentum going with a brisk 25 off 15 balls, before holing out to the deep on a googly from Varun Chakaravarthy, who got his first wicket of IPL 2026.

Despite Washington Sundar falling to Chakaravarthy, Gill reached his half-century off 27 deliveries and continued to hit a flurry of boundaries. He looked destined for making a hundred before a moment of brilliance by Cameron Green at deep backward point ended his stay. Gill’s dismissal triggered a slight wobble as KKR’s bowlers took the game into the final over.

With five runs needed off the final over, Ramandeep Singh removed Glenn Phillips (19) on the first ball to spark a glimmer of hope for KKR. But Tewatia and impact sub Shahrukh remained calm to seal the win for GT.

Brief scores:

Kolkata Knight Riders 180 all out in 20 overs (Cameron Green 79, Rovman Powell 27; Kagiso Rabada 3-29, Mohammed Siraj 2-23) lost to Gujarat Titans 181/5 in 19.4 overs (Shubman Gill 86, Jos Buttler 25; Varun Chakaravarthy 2-34, Ramandeep Singh 1-5) by five wickets

–IANS

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Manipur to develop Kharungpat Bird Sanctuary to boost conservation, eco-tourism

Imphal, April 17 (IANS) The Manipur government has announced plans to develop a bird sanctuary at Kharungpat in Kakching district, in a move aimed at strengthening biodiversity conservation and promoting eco-tourism in the state, officials said on Friday.

A senior forest official said the proposed sanctuary will cover around 227 hectares, accounting for about 6.7 per cent of the total wetland area. The site is considered ecologically significant, particularly for the conservation of waterbirds, including both resident and migratory species.

According to the official, the 2023 bird census recorded around 69 species in the area, of which nearly 40 per cent were migratory birds. However, the latest census conducted in 2025 has shown a noticeable decline in migratory bird numbers, raising concern within the state government.

The decline has been attributed to factors such as loss of suitable habitat, shrinking roosting sites and increasing local disturbances affecting the wetland ecosystem.

In response, and in line with public demand, the state government has decided to notify the area as the Kharungpat Bird Sanctuary.

The official said the state Cabinet’s decision to declare Kharungpat a bird sanctuary under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, marks a significant step in Manipur’s conservation efforts.

The move follows sustained public demand led by local MLA Usham Deben Singh, with support from organisations such as the Keirak United Development Association, Citizens’ Association for Rural Development, members of the Wabagai Zila Parishad, and the South Tentha Youth Development Organisation.

Apart from conservation, the proposed sanctuary is expected to emerge as an important eco-tourism destination in the region.

Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden Anurag Bajpai said the Forest Department plans to work in coordination with the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to facilitate development projects related to the sanctuary.

He said an Eco-Development Committee involving local villagers will be constituted to promote eco-tourism and livelihood activities, ensuring that conservation efforts remain community-driven.

The government views the initiative as a people-centric project that seeks to integrate ecosystem conservation with sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.

Bajpai also highlighted that conservation of waterbirds is closely linked to the protection of wetlands, which play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.

He noted that under Criterion 5 of the Ramsar Convention, a wetland is considered internationally important if it regularly supports 20,000 or more waterbirds.

He also acknowledged the contributions of the local MLA, Zila Parishad members, community organisations, villagers and administrative officials, including the Deputy Commissioner, Divisional Forest Officer and Range Forest Officer, for their role in advancing efforts to conserve the region’s natural heritage.

–IANS

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