Category: TOP STORIES

New Delhi, Nov 8 (IANS) Bangladesh’s trade deficit jumped up 31 per cent year-on-year to $7.48 billion in July-September of the current financial year as the country’s fuel import bill more than doubled as oil prices soared due to the West Asia conflict, according to the latest data released by the Bangladesh Bank.

The country, which is highly dependent on imports for oil and gas, imported $19.33 billion worth of goods in the first quarter of the 2026-27 fiscal year. Import payments increased 15 per cent year-on-year. By contrast, export earnings rose only by 7 per cent to $11.86 billion during this period, according to a report in Dhaka’s The Daily Star.

The main driver behind the widening trade deficit was fuel. Imports of petroleum products rose 105 per cent to $4.2 billion from $2.0 billion, accounting for most of the increase in total imports. Food imports also climbed, with edible oil purchases up 54 per cent and wheat imports rising by as much as 66 per cent.

However, imports of capital goods and capital machinery fell, pointing to weaker business investment amid the economic slowdown, persistent inflation and a lack of investor confidence stemming from uncertainty.

Imports of capital goods dipped 13.6 per cent in the July-September period. Of these, imports of capital machinery slumped 22.5 per cent year-on-year to roughly $770 million. The Bangladesh Bank data showed that the current account deficit, which covers trade, services, income and transfers with the rest of the world, increased to $1.33 billion from $821 million a year earlier.

Remittances helped limit the gap. Inflows rose 13 per cent to $8.59 billion, led by Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Despite the increase in remittances, the country’s overall external account deficit widened. During the first quarter of this fiscal year, the deficit stood at $1.16 billion, against a surplus of $853 million in the same period a year earlier, reflecting that total foreign currency inflows were insufficient to cover external payments, with Bangladesh Bank meeting the shortfall from its reserves, the report added.

–IANS

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Siddharthnagar (UP), Nov 8 (IANS) In a suspected case of mass food poisoning amid the Diwali festivities, more than 150 people fell ill after consuming ‘golgappa’ from a local vendor in Uttar Pradesh’s Siddharthnagar district, with over 30 of them, including children, requiring hospitalisation.

The incident triggered panic in Kalanakhor Pedari village, along with two to three nearby villages, under the Khesraha police station area.

Officials said more than 150 people fell ill and have been admitted to hospitals.

A doctor on emergency duty told reporters that around 30-33 patients have been admitted to the Emergency Department so far.

“Around 18 children have been admitted to the PICU, and 15 patients are above the age of 15 years,” he said.

The doctor said that people developed symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea two days after consuming food and drinks from a golgappa vendor in a village under the Khesraha police station area.

“Among those admitted, two-three were in serious condition, but now all of them are stable,” he said.

The doctor added that more such patients are on their way to the hospital.

“We have received information that more patients are reaching via bus,” he said.

In a similar case of food poisoning reported from Uttar Pradesh’s Amethi district last month, around 102 people had fallen ill after eating ‘khasta’ (junk) food at a fair, with 17 of them, including children, requiring hospitalisation.

The incident was reported in Kotwa village of Amethi district, where around 102 people reportedly fell sick after eating ‘khasta’ food at a fair, triggering panic in the area. As people complained of vomiting and diarrhoea, a team from the state Health Department rushed to the village.

Later, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) also reached the spot and personally supervised the medical examination and treatment of those affected.

During the inspection, 39 children and 63 adults were found to be ill.

According to the CMO, the health department team reached the village following a complaint from the village head and was investigating the matter at the time of filing the report. He said the situation was under control.

–IANS

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Hyderabad, Nov 8 (IANS) Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Sunday celebrated his birthday with his family members in Kodangal, his home constituency in Vikarabad district.

The Chief Minister cut a cake to celebrate his birthday in the presence of his wife Geetha, wife Nymisha Reddy, son-in-law Satyanarayana Reddy, and grandson.

Earlier, Assembly Speaker Gaddam Prasad Kumar met Revanth Reddy at his residence in Kodangal to extend birthday wishes.

Ministers Seethakka and Vakiti Srihari, MP Mallu Ravi, various MLAs and MLCs, Chairpersons of different corporations, key Congress leaders, and party workers also conveyed their birthday wishes to the Chief Minister.

Chief Ministers of various states and leaders of Congress and other parties greeted Revanth Reddy on his birthday.

Karnataka Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar greeted his Telangana counterpart.

“Warm birthday wishes to my friend and Telangana Chief Minister Shri Revanth Reddy avaru. Wishing you good health and continued success in serving the people,” he posted on X.

Kerala Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan also conveyed birthday greetings to Revanth Reddy.

“Warm birthday greetings to my dear friend Shri Revanth Reddy (Chief Minister, Telangana). May you continue your dedicated efforts in transforming Telangana with your leadership and vision. Wishing you good health, happiness, and a long life ahead,” Satheesan said in a post on X.

Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy and Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar, both of whom hail from the state, also greeted the Chief Minister on his birthday.

Tollywood superstar K. Chiranjeevi also took to X to greet CM Revanth Reddy.

“As a member of the film fraternity, I especially appreciate your vision for Hyderabad as a global hub for cinema. May your ambitious vision of ‘Telangana Rising 2047’ pave the way for a progressive, prosperous and brighter future for our state. Wishing you good health, happiness and many more years of successful leadership,” Chiranjeevi said.

–IANS

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Canberra, Nov 8 (IANS) Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday extended wishes to people who are celebrating Diwali, stressing that shining diyas, candles, and lanterns reflect shared hopes for humanity and assure people that goodness, knowledge, and truth will always prevail.

Albanese’s message for Diwali was shared by Australian High Commissioner to India Philip Green on X.

“I send my best wishes to everyone observing Deepavali, the great celebration of the victory of light. For Hindu, Jain, Sikh and Buddhist communities, Deepavali is deeply embedded in culture – an ancient tradition of spiritual and personal renewal, underpinned by the cultivation of generosity and the embrace of new beginnings,” Albanese said.

“In many ways, the signs and symbols of Deepavali transcend religion and culture, embodying that spirit of generosity by extending its call to compassion and understanding to all of us. With love and unity at its luminous heart, it is a message – and an invitation – that is as welcome now as it has ever been,” he added.

PM Albanese stated that Diwali draws people from all backgrounds together and it has become a part of the face of modern Australia. He hailed the Indian community in Australia for their contribution to Australian society through hard work, aspiration and love of the country.

“Shining diyas, candles and lanterns reflect our deepest shared hopes for humanity, and assure us that goodness, knowledge and truth will always prevail. Deepavali draws people of all backgrounds together, reminding us of our shared essence, and the bonds of family, friendship and community, brings light and joy to us all. Wonderfully, it comes as the culmination of a month of great religious and cultural festivity,” he said.

“We can all take pride and joy in just how intrinsically Deepavali has become part of the face of modern Australia. As you honour the birthright of your heritage, you add so much to the land that is your home, just as you and your community have through generations of hard work, aspiration and an abiding love of country. And that is a gift to all of us – together – as Australians. May your Deepavali celebrations uplift you in hope for a brighter future,” he added.

Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali extended wishes to the people on Diwali, stressing that the festival of lights is a “radiant remembrance of light overcoming darkness, wisdom dispelling ignorance, and goodness rising triumphant over evil”.

“I extend warmest greetings to every Guyanese, at home and abroad, but especially to our Hindu community, on this sacred and luminous occasion of Diwali. Diwali is the festival of lights. It is a radiant remembrance of light overcoming darkness, wisdom dispelling ignorance, and goodness rising triumphant over evil. As diyas flicker in homes and hearts, they summon us toward compassion, truth, and love. Their small flames carry vast hopes; their tender lights bear timeless truths,” Ali posted on X.

“And as Guyana enjoys bright days, let us be mindful that true prosperity is measured not only by what we create, but by what we preserve. Our emerging prosperity must never be purchased at the expense of our extraordinary natural inheritance,” he added.

He stated that Guyana, which is being recognised globally for championing environmental stewardship, must continue to ensure that development and environmental protection advance together. He described Guyana’s forests as a global environmental asset and Guyana’s biodiversity, freshwater resources, mangroves, and marine ecosystems as essential for the country’s economic resilience and human survival. He expressed hope that the lights of Diwali illuminate a deeper understanding and acceptance that forests, rivers, oceans and biodiversity are not just natural resources but foundations of life and human well-being.

“Diwali’s reverence for light invites reflection on the gifts of nature that sustain all life. The festival of light quietly teaches that our health, prosperity, and joy are inseparable from the natural world, urging us to celebrate responsibly and protect the environment that sustains us all. And it is in this spirit that we must embrace a more enduring covenant with nature.”

“For what we inherit from the earth carries with it an obligation to protect, nurture and pass it on, enriched rather than diminished. It is this wisdom, this reverence for the interconnectedness of all life, that gives particular resonance to the celebration of Diwali. May the lights of Diwali therefore illuminate a deeper understanding and acceptance that our forests, rivers, biodiversity, and oceans are not merely natural resources; they are the foundations of life and human well-being. May we continue to safeguard these assets. I wish one and all a Happy and Holy Diwali,” he added.

Diwali, the festival of lights, is being celebrated across the world today. On the day, homes and temples are decorated and illuminated with earthen lamps and decorative lights. In the evening, people perform traditional prayers to Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, seeking blessings for happiness, peace and prosperity.

–IANS

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New Delhi, Nov 8 (IANS) As the people in India and abroad celebrate Diwali on Sunday, Embassies and High Commissions from across the world extended their wishes to the people on the festival of lights.

The Greek Embassy in India extended wishes to people on Diwali and also shared glimpses from their own celebration on X.

In the video, the Greek diplomats responded to different questions like what their favourite Diwali sweet is, their Diwali memory in India, and what Diwali tradition they would like to take back home.

“My wish for all our Indian friends for Diwali is that your life is as sweet as kaju barfi. Shubh Diwali,” one diplomat said.

Another said: “One thing I learned about Diwali is that light is not simply something we celebrate, it’s something we choose to share and if light brings people together, it knows no border.”

European Union’s Delegation to India wished people a very Happy Diwali.

Australia’s High Commissioner to India Philip Green extended wishes to people on Diwali. The Australian High Commission in India also celebrated the Diwali festival here.

The pictures shared by Green on X showed embassy officials wearing ethnic clothes and dancing.

“Wishing everyone a Happy Diwali. Diwali with the High Commission family is always special, and even more so as I celebrate my final Diwali in India as High Commissioner. A memorable day of warmth, festive cheer and lots of dancing,” he posted on X.

“A few more glimpses from our #Diwali celebrations at the High Commission! A day filled with colour, light, laughter and festive cheer as our High Commission family came together to celebrate the Festival of Lights,” he added.

The Ukrainian Embassy in India also extended wishes on Diwali. In the video posted on X, Ukrainian Ambassador to India Oleksandr Polishchuk said: “Namaste and Happy Diwali. We send in our warm wishes to all of our Indian friends, and especially those Indians who stay with us in Ukraine during these difficult times. May the light of Diwali bring warmth, hope, peace, and brighter days ahead. May the light prevail!”

–IANS

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New Delhi, Nov 8 (IANS) Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit reached a forward base on Sunday and joined frontline troops in Diwali festivities. He celebrated the festival with the ‘Air Warriors’ deployed at the station.

Upon arriving at the forward-area Air Force station, the IAF chief interacted with the Air Force warriors and ‘Agniveervayus’ (Agniveers in the Air Force) deployed there, entrusted with safeguarding the nation’s airspace.

The IAF chief distributed sweets and extended festive greetings to the brave. The Air Force Chief commended the Air Warriors for fulfilling their duties in the service of the nation with unwavering commitment, even while staying away from their families on the auspicious occasion of Diwali.

He said that while most people celebrate festivals with their families, Air Warriors stationed on the frontlines prioritise duty and remain on high alert to ensure the country’s security.

Notably, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, accompanied by Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth, also celebrated Diwali with the Indian Armed Forces in Sherathang, Sikkim.

During the visit, the Union Minister paid tribute to the fallen soldiers at the Sherathang War Memorial and extended his Diwali greetings to the troops.

He commended the soldiers for their professionalism, high morale and steadfast commitment to safeguarding the nation’s borders in challenging high-altitude conditions, urging them to continue protecting the motherland with the same enthusiasm and dedication.

“Like a lamp which dispels darkness without seeking attention, soldiers perform their duties silently, ensuring that citizens can celebrate festivals with peace and security,” he said.

Highlighting the significance of Diwali, the Defence Minister drew a parallel between soldiers’ role and the diya (earthen lamp). He noted that just as a Diwali diya combats darkness silently, soldiers’ lives follow a similar path—they do not seek attention. Yet, their presence gives the entire nation a sense of security.

–IANS

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Hyderabad, Nov 8 (IANS) Telangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Sunday offered prayers at the Bhagyalakshmi Temple abutting historic Charminar.

The Governor, accompanied by his spouse, Janaki Shukla, visited the temple occasion of Diwali.

The Governor and his spouse offered special prayers to the Goddess.

Temple trustee Shashikala briefed them on the significance of the temple.

Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla prayed for the prosperity of the nation and Telangana and wished the people happiness, peace and good health.

Meanwhile, the Governor had extended Diwali greetings to the people of Telangana.

He urged people to celebrate the festival with love, compassion and a spirit of service.

He said that Diwali symbolises the victory of light over darkness and called upon everyone to spread happiness, support the underprivileged, promote indigenous products and celebrate safely.

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy also extended warm greetings to people of Telangana on the occasion of Diwali.

The Chief Minister wished that the radiance of the ‘festival of the lights’ fills every home with happiness and prosperity.

Stating that the “People’s Government” is committed to bring lights in the lives of every citizen of the state, the Chief Minister said that his government is working tirelessly toward the welfare of all sections of society and the holistic development of the state.

“Diwali holds special significance symbolising the victory of good over evil and knowledge over ignorance,” he added.

CM Revanth Reddy hoped that people will celebrate the festival with great joy and enthusiasm illuminating their homes and surroundings with the light of lamps.

The Chief Minister also appealed to people to adopt conservation of environment during the festivities and also prevent any untoward incidents while bursting crackers.

He called upon everyone including children and youth to celebrate Diwali in a safe and joyful environment.

Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Governor S. Abdul Nazeer and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu have also greeted people on Diwali.

“Deepavali symbolises the victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. The lights of Deepavali signify a time to destroy all our dark desires and thoughts, eradicate evils and gives us the strength and zeal to help each other. Festivals like these inspire us to build a society filled with peace, amity, brotherhood and communal harmony,” Governor Abdul Nazeer said in his message.

–IANS

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New Delhi, Nov 8 (IANS) Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi’s description of the Emergency as a ’mistake’, in an interview with British newspaper ‘The Guardian’, has triggered reactions from political leaders, with Union Ministers Rajiv Ranjan Singh and Ramdas Athawale commenting on the legacy of the 1975-77 period.

Speaking to IANS on the issue, Rajiv Ranjan Singh noted that Sonia Gandhi’s forthcoming book could shed light on several aspects of the country’s political history that had not been widely discussed.

“She has mentioned several things in her revelations. After reading her book, the nation will get an opportunity to know about many such untouched aspects that people were not aware of. But one thing is certain: she has once again touched the sensitive nerve of the nation regarding the Emergency,” he said.

Recalling the period, the minister said thousands of people were arrested, civil rights were suspended, and prominent political leaders were subjected to torture.

He further claimed that the decision to impose the Emergency did not have consensus even within the Gandhi family, but then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi went ahead with it.

“Despite this, Indira ji forcibly imposed the Emergency on the country. Now, given the double standards of the Congress, after this statement, Sonia ji should work towards strengthening the country’s democracy, and there could be no better way than this to make amends,” the JD-U leader said.

Union Minister Athawale also reacted to Sonia Gandhi’s remarks, saying that her acknowledgement of the Emergency as a wrong decision was significant.

“Sonia Gandhi has now stated that the Emergency was a decision against the Constitution and that many people were arrested and sent to jail during that period. That is a separate matter. Sonia Gandhi has said that Indira Gandhi later realised that her decision to impose the Emergency was wrong,” Athawale said.

However, he expressed doubt over whether Indira Gandhi herself had ever publicly acknowledged the decision as a mistake.

“I don’t think Indira Gandhi ji herself ever made any such statement. But democracy was undermined during that period. If Sonia Gandhi ji has said this today, then it is good that she has acknowledged that Indira Gandhi ji’s decision to impose the Emergency was not right,” he added.

The Emergency was imposed by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on June 25, 1975, and remained in force until March 21, 1977. The period witnessed restrictions on civil liberties, press censorship and the detention of several Opposition leaders.

–IANS

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Chennai, Nov 8 (IANS) Tamil Nadu Ministers on Sunday paid floral tributes to renowned Italian scholar and Tamil literary figure Veeramamunivar, remembering his remarkable contributions to the development of Tamil language, literature and grammar on his birth anniversary.

Representing the Tamil Nadu government, Food and Civil Supplies Minister Venkitaramanan, School Education, Tamil Development and Information Minister Rajmohan and Social Justice Minister Vanni Arasu garlanded Veeramamunivar’s statue on Kamarajar Salai near Marina Beach in Chennai.

They also showered flower petals on his portrait.

Veeramamunivar, originally named Constantine Joseph Beschi, was born in Italy and arrived in India in 1710.

Although he came as a Christian missionary, he subsequently emerged as one of the most influential foreign scholars to contribute to Tamil literature.

During his missionary activities in Gurukkalpatti, Elakurichi, Konankuppam and several other places, he devoted considerable attention to studying Tamil and producing literary works, grammatical treatises and dictionaries.

His celebrated literary masterpiece, Thembavani, remains among his most significant contributions to Tamil poetry.

He also authored several works covering religious themes, grammar, prose and literary criticism.

Among his notable writings were Thirukkavalur Kalambakam, Kitheri Ammal Ammanai, Chathurakarathi and Thonnool Vilakkam.

His grammatical treatise ‘Thonnool Vilakkam’ earned recognition for its systematic treatment of Tamil grammar.

Veeramamunivar also made pioneering contributions to the study of spoken Tamil through his work on colloquial Tamil grammar, distinguishing everyday speech from classical literary usage.

His efforts were particularly significant during a period when formal grammatical studies largely concentrated on classical Tamil.

Another major achievement was his translation of portions of the Thirukkural, dealing with virtue and ethical principles, into Latin, helping introduce Tamil philosophical thought to European scholars.

His prose works included Vedhiyar Ozhukkam, Gnana Kannadi and Paramartha Guru Kathaigal.

The latter became particularly famous for its humorous storytelling and occupies an important place in the development of Tamil prose literature.

Veeramamunivar died in 1747, leaving behind a substantial literary legacy.

Tamil Development and Information Department Secretary Rajaraman, Information and Public Relations Director Arun Thamburaj, Tamil Development Director N. Arul, and senior government officials attended the commemorative ceremony.

The state government said the observance recognised the scholar’s enduring contribution to Tamil linguistic and literary heritage.

–IANS

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Chandigarh, Nov 8 (IANS) Despite the dipping Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Delhi-NCR region and worsening breathing conditions, the stubble burning crisis continues to remain a challenge for the administration, as despite multiple warnings and reminders, the incidents continue to be reported, with as many as 200 in Punjab’s Patiala district alone.

Thousands of incidents of agricultural residue burning have been reported across Punjab, bypassing the pollution control board’s instructions.

According to a report by the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB), a total of 3,307 incidents of stubble burning were recorded in the state till November 7. Out of these, 2,903 sites were inspected, and the burning of crop residue was confirmed at 1,275 locations.

A fine of Rs 60.60 lakh has also been imposed as ‘Environmental Compensation’ (EC) for stubble burning, of which Rs 32.50 lakh has already been recovered, said the report.

About 870 FIRs have been registered, and ‘red entries’ were recorded in 1,004 cases. Additionally, 1,102 warning notices have been issued.

According to the report, Tarn Taran district ranked first in alleged violations. The stubble burning incident exceeded 623 incidents here; Ferozepur recorded 435 cases, Sangrur 294, Bathinda 274, while Amritsar recorded 235 incidents.

Patiala district remains another of the most notorious zones for stubble burning, with the city administration registering 77 FIRs alone in the city for alleged violations.

According to the report, 196 incidents of stubble burning have been recorded in Patiala district so far. Of these, 157 sites were inspected, and stubble burning was confirmed at 94 locations. Fines totalling Rs 3.45 lakh have been imposed under the ‘Environmental Compensation’ provision, out of which the authorities collected Rs 1.25 lakh as a penalty.

In Patiala district, 77 FIRs have been registered in connection with stubble burning, and ‘red entries’ have been made in 33 cases. Additionally, 185 warning notices have been issued.

The report adds that the state administration has initiated a series of steps to check and control incidents of stubble burning, but they continue to pose a menace, threatening to deteriorate the situation further.

–IANS

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