Category Archives: india

death, disaster, environment, india, weather

Between June-September, rain-related incidents claimed 458 lives in Jharkhand

2025 年 10 月 9 日 admin Leave a comment

**Rain-Related Incidents in Jharkhand Claim 458 Lives Between June and September**

*By Chanshimla Varah | October 9, 2025, 5:19 PM*

Jharkhand has witnessed its worst monsoon in a decade, with heavy rains from June to September claiming at least 458 lives. The season’s severe weather not only led to tragic fatalities but also caused extensive damage to homes and farmlands across the state.

**Casualties and Causes**

According to official data, lightning strikes were responsible for the deaths of 186 people, while 178 others drowned in various rain-related incidents. Additional casualties resulted from floods, landslides, and house collapses triggered by the intense rainfall.

**Impact on Housing and Agriculture**

The monsoon devastation extended beyond loss of life. A total of 467 houses were completely destroyed, and over 8,000 others suffered partial damage. Farmlands were severely affected as well, with crop losses reported across 2,390 hectares in districts such as Ranchi, Gumla, Lohardaga, and Simdega.

In Sahibganj district, rising water levels in the Ganga River displaced approximately 20,000 people, further highlighting the season’s widespread impact.

**Record-Breaking Rainfall**

The Ranchi Meteorological Centre recorded a total rainfall of 1,199.5 mm between June 1 and September 30 this year, marking an 18% increase over normal levels. Abhishek Anand, director of the center, explained that this was the highest rainfall the region has experienced in a decade. He attributed the unusual intensity to climate change and rising sea surface temperatures in the Bay of Bengal.

**Districts Most Affected**

Unusual meteorological activity in the Bay of Bengal contributed to repeated heavy downpours, especially in eastern and southeastern parts of Jharkhand. East Singhbhum recorded the highest rainfall at 1,669.5 mm, followed closely by Ranchi with 1,550.2 mm and Saraikela-Kharsawan at 1,526.3 mm. Each of these districts received more than 50% above normal rainfall for the season.

**Weather Outlook**

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted a “pink cold” or mild winter around Diwali and Chhath Puja celebrations. However, the severity of the upcoming winter season will depend on global factors such as the La Niña phenomenon and shifts in wind patterns.

While rainfall activity is currently declining, isolated moderate rain showers accompanied by thunder and lightning are expected to continue until October 12. Following this period, dry conditions are anticipated as the monsoon gradually withdraws.

—

Stay tuned for updates and precautionary advisories as the season progresses.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/between-june-september-heavy-rainfall-claimed-458-lives-in-jharkhand/story

india, politics, security

PM Modi Accuses Congress Of Weakening India’s Fight Against Terrorism, Says Party Bowed To Foreign Pressure After 26/11; Video

2025 年 10 月 9 日 admin Leave a comment

**PM Narendra Modi’s Two-Day Mumbai Visit: Sharp Criticism of Congress, Inauguration of Major Projects, and Calls for Swadeshi**

During his two-day visit to Mumbai on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a sharp attack on the Congress party, alleging that its “weakness strengthened terrorism.” He claimed that the Congress-led UPA government had restrained India’s defence forces from retaliating against Pakistan after the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, acting under foreign pressure.

### PM Demands Answers on 26/11 Response

Modi demanded accountability, saying, “The Congress must reveal who in their party acted under pressure from another country and played with the emotions of Mumbaikars.” He emphasized that Mumbai, the country’s financial and most vibrant capital, became a target of terrorism in 2008.

Referring to former Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram’s interview, the Prime Minister alleged that the Congress government denied the armed forces permission to carry out a counteroffensive on Pakistan despite being fully prepared.

“This weakness of Congress strengthened terrorism and compromised national security. The country paid the price with the loss of precious lives. For the BJP, nothing stands above the nation and its security,” Modi asserted.

### PM Inaugurates ₹31,850-Crore Projects in Mumbai

Arriving in Mumbai, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated multiple development projects worth ₹31,850 crore aimed at improving infrastructure and connectivity in the city.

He also criticized the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government for halting work on the Mumbai Metro Aqua Line. Modi alleged that their decision caused “a loss of thousands of crores” and deprived Mumbaikars of crucial transport benefits.

“In a city where every minute counts, stopping the Metro for three to four years is no less than a sin,” he stated, accusing the coalition government of obstructing development for political gain.

### Calls for Swadeshi During Diwali

Speaking about economic progress, Modi highlighted record-breaking sales during Navratri following GST reforms. He appealed to citizens to buy Swadeshi goods during Diwali, stating, “If every Indian opts for Swadeshi, our money will stay within the country and generate employment for Indians.”

### Highlighting India’s Infrastructure and Aviation Growth

The Prime Minister underlined India’s rapid progress over the past 11 years, citing examples such as the introduction of Vande Bharat trains, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train, new highways, and tunnels, which all represent the nation’s transformation.

He further added that the Vadhavan Port in Palghar will generate massive employment opportunities.

Modi also pointed out that the number of airports in India has more than doubled—from 74 in 2014 to over 160 in 2025. Indian airlines have ordered over 1,000 new aircraft, creating vast opportunities for pilots, engineers, cabin crew, and ground staff.

“India will become a global hub for Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) by the end of this decade,” the Prime Minister said, highlighting the country’s aviation aspirations.

—

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit focused on addressing past security failures, inaugurating significant infrastructure projects, and encouraging economic self-reliance through Swadeshi initiatives, underscoring his vision for a strong and prosperous India.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/pm-modi-accuses-congress-of-weakening-indias-fight-against-terrorism-says-party-bowed-to-foreign-pressure-after-2611-video

criminal law, india, justice

Sohrabuddin Encounter Case: CBI Accepts Special Court Acquittal Of 22 Accused; HC Appeal Scheduled For October 15

2025 年 10 月 9 日 admin Leave a comment

CBI Accepts Acquittal Verdict in 2005 Sohrabuddin Shaikh Fake Encounter Case

Mumbai: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) informed the Bombay High Court on Wednesday that it has accepted the verdict by the special CBI court, Mumbai, acquitting all 22 accused in the alleged 2005 fake encounter case involving gangster Sohrabuddin Shaikh and his aide Tulsiram Prajapati. The central agency also stated that it would not challenge the acquittal before the High Court.

Details of the Acquittal

In December 2018, the special court acquitted all 22 accused, observing that the prosecution failed to establish a strong case indicating any conspiracy to kill Sohrabuddin and others. It also noted that the accused had no proven role in the incident.

Appeal Filed by Family

Sohrabuddin’s brothers, Rubabuddin and Nayabuddin Shaikh, filed an appeal in April 2019 before the Bombay High Court, challenging the special court’s judgment.

Background of the Case

Sohrabuddin, who was alleged to be a gangster, was killed in an encounter near Ahmedabad by the Gujarat police in November 2006. His wife, Kausar Bi, was also allegedly killed. In December 2006, Tulsiram Prajapati—considered a key eyewitness—was killed in another alleged encounter.

Subsequently, the Supreme Court transferred the investigation to the CBI and shifted the trial to a special CBI court in Mumbai.

High Court Hearing

The appeal was heard by a bench comprising Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar and Justice Gautam Ankhad on Wednesday. During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh, representing the CBI, conveyed that the agency would not be filing any appeal against the special court’s judgment.

“We (CBI) have accepted the acquittal judgment,” Singh told the court.

Claims by the Family

The appeal filed by Sohrabuddin’s brothers argued that the trial was flawed. They cited instances where witnesses claimed their testimonies were not recorded accurately by the trial court.

“The witnesses have claimed their testimonies were not recorded as stated by them during the trial,” the advocate representing the family said.

The appeal sought for the judgment to be quashed and for a retrial to be ordered. The High Court asked the advocate to submit a chart listing the witnesses whose statements were allegedly not recorded accurately.

The matter has been scheduled for the next hearing on October 15.

Special Court Observations

On December 21, 2018, the special court acquitted all accused, citing insufficient evidence and the prosecution’s failure to prove the case beyond reasonable doubt.

The court also observed that the CBI had failed to establish any nexus between the accused officers and local politicians, some of whom were also named in the case.

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/sohrabuddin-encounter-case-cbi-accepts-special-court-acquittal-of-22-accused-hc-appeal-scheduled-for-october-15

cricket, india, sports

‘We Kind Of Complement Each Other’: Varun Chakravarthy Opens Up On His Bowling Partnership With Kuldeep Yadav

2025 年 10 月 8 日 admin Leave a comment

**Varun Chakravarthy on His Partnership with Kuldeep Yadav and T20 World Cup Aspirations**

India’s mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy believes that his partnership with fellow spinner Kuldeep Yadav is critical for the team’s success. He feels that the two complement each other well and hopes to recreate their magic at the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Chakravarthy shared his thoughts while speaking at the CEAT Cricket Rating Awards on Tuesday. “Kuldeep is definitely one of the most experienced bowlers right now in the pool of players that we have, and he has done amazingly well. We kind of complement each other because I bowl at speeds of around 95 km per hour, while he bowls closer to 85 km per hour. So, we complement each other — he brings more revs and turn, while I offer more speed and bounce. Till now, it’s been working well for us. Hopefully, we can continue doing the same thing in the World Cup,” he said.

**Asia Cup Final: Playing Pakistan Twice Helped**

Reflecting on his success in the Asia Cup final, Chakravarthy felt that playing Pakistan twice in the tournament before the summit clash gave the team an advantage. “Of course, we plan before every match, and having played Pakistan twice before the final gave us a fair idea of what their plans could be and what they might come up with. We also had our own strategies, and finally, we did well,” he explained.

**Secret Behind His Bowling Success**

Chakravarthy believes that the pitches have played a significant role in his effectiveness. “If you look at the pitches in Dubai, they have suited me well. Even during the Champions Trophy, I performed well there because the pitches are a bit on the slower side, which helps me. My role is to keep attacking the stumps and challenge the batsmen to take aggressive shots, like going for a six. It forces them to take risks, and that’s when I can take wickets. That was the basic plan,” he added.

**“He Brings a Spartan Mentality” – On Working with Gautam Gambhir**

Talking about his working relationship with India coach Gautam Gambhir, Chakravarthy highlighted the benefit of their familiarity. “I have already worked with him in the IPL, and we won the trophy there, so nothing is new to me as I have been around him. One thing I can say about him is that he brings a Spartan mentality to the team — there’s no option of losing. You have to bring your best and give it all on the field. When he is around, there is no mediocrity; you can’t be mediocre in the field. That’s what I feel,” Chakravarthy said.

**Focus Amidst Off-Field Distractions During Asia Cup**

Despite various off-field distractions during the Asia Cup, Chakravarthy revealed that the team’s sole focus was on winning the trophy. “I don’t know about others, but our primary goal when we landed there was to win the cup and nothing else. We wanted to beat all teams and go unbeaten in the tournament to build confidence for the World Cup. Most players even switched off their social media accounts, only posting after matches. Since we were in another country, UAE, it was very quiet — there was no noise or distractions,” he said.

**On His Presence in the Champions Trophy Squad**

When asked about his inclusion in the Champions Trophy-winning squad, Chakravarthy expressed that he always expects to be part of the team but acknowledged that selectors consider conditions and team requirements. “Brother, I expect to be in every team, but it’s up to the selectors to decide. Maybe the conditions there offered less opportunity for spinners. In the Champions Trophy, I was brought in as a replacement for Yashaswi as well. It all depends on pitch conditions and team strategy,” he stated.

**Bowling Strategy: Changing Ball Sequences**

Chakravarthy revealed that he didn’t try anything drastically different at the Asia Cup apart from varying the sequence of balls. “It basically goes three ways — left, right, or straight. It depends on when I want to take the ball to the other side. Whether I bowl two leg-spins followed by one googly or two googlies followed by one leg-spin, that’s the only thing I change. Other than that, there isn’t much to alter,” he explained.

**Keeping the Mystery Element Alive**

The spinner admitted that it’s challenging to maintain the mystery element in his bowling when opponents use video analysis extensively. “Look, sports science and analytics have gone so far that even if I play one match and try something new, it gets picked up on video. But at the end of the day, the batsman still has to middle the ball and hit it for a six,” Chakravarthy concluded.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/we-kind-of-complement-each-other-varun-chakravarthy-opens-up-on-his-bowling-partnership-with-kuldeep-yadav

business, electronics, india, mobile, technology

Jio introduces safety-first JioBharat phones starting at ₹800

2025 年 10 月 8 日 admin Leave a comment

**Jio Introduces Safety-First JioBharat Phones Starting at ₹799**

*By Mudit Dube | Oct 08, 2025, 03:57 PM*

Reliance Jio has unveiled its latest range of JioBharat phones, featuring an innovative “Safety-First” solution aimed at enhancing family connectivity and security. The announcement was made at the India Mobile Congress 2025 (IMC 2025).

The new Safety-First feature enables guardians to monitor their children, elderly parents, and other dependents through a simple and secure interface. Key functionalities include location tracking, control over calls and messages, and real-time updates on battery life and network strength, ensuring peace of mind for families.

**Tailored for Every Member of the Household**

Jio has designed these safety features specifically to cater to the diverse needs of Indian households. For children, the device offers distraction-free connectivity by eliminating social media access. Elderly users benefit from a straightforward phone experience complemented by health and location alerts. Additionally, women can rely on the phone as a dependable safety and connectivity companion when they need it most.

**Empowering Indians Through Technology**

Speaking at IMC 2025, Sunil Dutt, President of Reliance Jio, emphasized the company’s vision: “Technology should serve a deeper purpose to connect and empower every Indian.” He described the JioBharat Safety-First solution as more than just a phone feature—it is a life-enabling innovation designed to provide families with affordable and accessible peace of mind.

**Availability**

The new JioBharat phones featuring the Safety-First solution are now available on various sales platforms, starting at just ₹799.

—

Stay connected and safeguard your loved ones with Jio’s latest innovation in affordable mobile technology.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/jiobharat-phones-launched-with-enhanced-safety-features/story

india, justice, legal, public safety

Supreme Court To Hear TVK Party Plea On Karur Stampede Probe, Seeks Independent Investigation

2025 年 10 月 8 日 admin Leave a comment

New Delhi:

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear on Friday a plea filed by the actor Vijay’s political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), through its General Secretary Aadhav Arjuna. The plea seeks an impartial investigation into the Karur stampede, calling for a probe conducted by a panel led by a retired top-court judge.

The plea, filed through advocates Dixita Gohil, Pranjal Agarwal, and Yash S Vijay, challenges the Madras High Court’s October 3 order that constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the tragic stampede. The SIT is headed by the Inspector General of Police and comprises senior officers from the Tamil Nadu Police.

TVK’s plea contends that despite the High Court’s clear doubts about the independence of the police probe, the Court still directed that the SIT be formed solely with state police officers. The petition states, “The Petitioner-party as well as its leaders are prejudiced by the order which appoints an SIT composed solely of officers of the State Police, especially in the face of the observations of the Hon’ble High Court expressing its dissatisfaction with the independence of State Police and its conduct, and prejudicial factual findings against the Petitioner.”

The plea further argues that the possibility of a pre-planned conspiracy by certain miscreants to create trouble at the rally site cannot be ruled out. Therefore, an independent investigation where all contesting facts can be examined is necessary.

Additionally, the plea raises concerns over certain strong observations made by the High Court against TVK, which it claims have caused severe prejudice to the party and its office-bearers. It argues that the High Court’s observations and directions were made in violation of the principles of natural justice and fair trial, without conducting any factual inquiry, verifying evidence, or providing TVK or its officials a chance to be heard.

Specifically, the plea challenges the High Court’s observation condemning TVK’s leadership for allegedly “fleeing from the scene of occurrence” and failing to provide assistance to the public. According to the plea, these claims are factually incorrect, misleading, and contradictory to the actual record.

“The contemporaneous sequence of events clearly establishes that, upon receiving information that certain individuals had fainted during the event, the Petitioner’s leadership and Party cadre took immediate and coordinated steps to ensure medical aid and relief were provided without delay,” the plea asserts.

On October 3, the Madras High Court ordered the constitution of the SIT headed by the Inspector General of Police to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the stampede that claimed 41 lives and left many injured. The Court also banned political rallies, roadshows, and similar public events along state and national highways in Tamil Nadu until Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are formulated.

The High Court strongly criticised TVK party workers for allegedly failing to rescue the public left stranded during the incident and questioned the State government’s lenient approach towards holding the event organisers accountable.

*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the FPJ editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/supreme-court-to-hear-tvk-party-plea-on-karur-stampede-probe-seeks-independent-investigation

assembly, congress, elections, india, politics

Kharge Confident of Resolving Seat-Sharing Issue for Bihar Assembly Polls

2025 年 10 月 8 日 admin Leave a comment

**Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge Confident of Resolving Seat Sharing Issue Ahead of Bihar Assembly Polls**

Bengaluru: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday expressed confidence in resolving the seat sharing issue with alliance partners for the upcoming Bihar Assembly polls. He informed that a meeting of party leaders is scheduled for later in the day, which he will attend virtually.

The much-awaited Bihar Assembly elections, where the opposition bloc led by the RJD and the Congress aims to unseat the ruling NDA, will be held in two phases on November 6 and 11. The votes will be counted on November 14.

“We are going to solve this. Today there is a meeting at 2:30 pm. I’m also attending the meeting virtually. We are sorting it out,” Kharge told reporters in response to questions about the deadlock over seat sharing.

When asked about the number of seats the Congress will contest, he said, “We are not going to reveal how many seats we have decided now itself. In today’s meeting, we will discuss those where we have to compromise and on which there are no differences. After 2:30 pm, it will be known how many will be decided today and how many tomorrow.”

This marked Kharge’s first interaction with the media since his discharge from the hospital, where he underwent a procedure to have a pacemaker implanted last week.
https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/kharge-confident-of-resolving-seat-sharing-issue-for-bihar-assembly-polls-1908710

healthcare, india, medicine, oncology, pharmaceuticals

AstraZeneca gets nod to market cancer drug in India

2025 年 10 月 8 日 admin Leave a comment

AstraZeneca Pharma announced on Tuesday that it has received approval from the national drug regulator to market a new cancer treatment drug in India.

The company has been granted approval by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) to import, market, and distribute Trastuzumab Deruxtecan for an additional indication in the country, according to an official statement.

With this approval, Trastuzumab Deruxtecan is now indicated for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable or metastatic HER2-positive solid tumours. These patients must have received prior systemic therapy and have no satisfactory alternative treatment options.

This approval marks the first and only antibody-drug conjugate in India with a tumour-agnostic indication, representing a significant advancement in precision oncology, AstraZeneca said.

*Disclaimer:*
This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed/ agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, and accuracy of the text. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete, or remove (without notice) the content at their absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.

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https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/astrazeneca-gets-nod-to-market-cancer-drug-in-india-23597685

agriculture, climate, india, weather

India’s Above-Normal Monsoon Brings Mixed Fortunes For Kharif Crops; Excess Rainfall Damages Paddy, Pulses, Cotton

2025 年 10 月 8 日 admin Leave a comment

The southwest monsoon 2025 commenced its withdrawal by mid-September. It is now time to evaluate its performance and examine the harvest prospects of key crops across the country.

### Rainfall Overview

The good news is that, as forecast by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), India has enjoyed above-normal rainfall this season. Between June 1 and September 27, the country received 922 mm of rainfall, which is 8 percent above the normal level.

However, the distribution of rainfall was uneven. While east and northeast India—mainly Bihar and Assam—suffered a 19 percent rainfall deficiency, the northwest regions, primarily Punjab and Rajasthan, experienced a 28 percent surplus. Central India received 13 percent above-normal rainfall, and the southern peninsula saw an 11 percent surplus.

### Impact on Agriculture

Although the total quantum of rainfall during the season is important, the temporal and spatial distribution is critical for agriculture. August and September witnessed excessive precipitation in some parts of the country such as Punjab, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Rajasthan. This has reportedly inflicted crop damage.

There have been reports regarding adverse impacts on paddy and pulse crops, but the full extent of damage is still under assessment. Anecdotal evidence also suggests that excessive rains have impacted crop quality.

Below is an assessment of the likely harvest size of key Kharif crops. The forecast production numbers are presented as ranges, with planted area data as of September 26.

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### Rice

The production target for rice this season is 123 million metric tonnes (MMT). The normal planted area, based on a five-year average, is 40.3 million hectares (ml ha). This year, the planted area was slightly higher at 44.2 ml ha, compared to last year’s 43.6 ml ha.

The rice crop is estimated to yield between 123 and 125 MMT, up from 121.8 MMT in 2024. Rice stocks in the country remain well above the buffer norm, and export restrictions have been lifted.

—

### Maize

The production target for maize is 26 MMT. Planted area expanded significantly this season to 9.5 ml ha, up from 8.8 ml ha last year, following increased demand for ethanol production driven by the government’s biofuel blending programme.

The maize harvest is expected to be in the range of 26 to 27 MMT, higher than the 24.8 MMT produced during the last Kharif season.

—

### Pulses

This protein-rich legume has faced challenges this year. The production target was reduced from 9.5 MMT in 2024 to 8.0 MMT in 2025. Planted area has also declined by one million hectares to 12.0 ml ha, down from a five-year average of 13 ml ha, as growers shifted to more remunerative crops like maize due to poor returns.

Despite satisfactory initial rains, excessive rainfall in August in pockets of Maharashtra and Karnataka damaged crops. Consequently, production is expected to decline to between 6.7 and 7.0 MMT, well below even the reduced target.

To augment availability and keep prices in check, imports of pigeon pea (tur/arhar) and black matpe (urad) have been allowed duty-free until March 2026.

—

### Oilseeds

Key Kharif oilseeds include soybean and groundnut, along with smaller quantities of sesamum, niger seed, sunflower seed, and castor seed.

The soybean planted area has decreased to 12 ml ha this season, down one million hectares from last year. However, satisfactory rainfall over the soy belt in Madhya Pradesh, Vidharba in Maharashtra, and parts of Rajasthan is expected to result in decent yields.

Soybean production is forecasted between 12.0 and 12.5 MMT, falling significantly short of the 16.2 MMT target. It is widely recognized that the government’s 2024 estimate of 15.2 MMT was overstated by 15 to 20 percent. Effectively, soybean production has seen little change.

In the case of groundnut, the main growing region of Gujarat received excellent rainfall, likely leading to improved yields. The overall production size is projected to be between 11 and 12 MMT, higher than the target of 10.5 MMT and last Kharif’s 10.4 MMT.

—

### Cotton

Cotton, a multipurpose crop used for fibre, food, and feed, has been losing acreage over the past three years. This season, the planted area has decreased to 11.0 ml ha, down from 11.3 ml ha last year and well below the five-year average of 12.9 ml ha.

Excessive rains in key cotton-growing states such as Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Punjab, coupled with pest infestations, have resulted in crop losses. The government revised the production target down from last year’s 35 million bales (170 kg each) to 33.5 million bales for 2025.

Despite this, the harvest is estimated to be between 29.5 and 30.5 million bales, falling short of even the reduced target. Last year, production stood at 30.7 million bales. Crop quality is also likely to be compromised.

India has now become a net importer of raw cotton, and free imports are allowed until December 31, 2025. For 2025-26, imports are forecast at 3.5 to 4.0 million bales.

—

### Sugarcane

Sugarcane planted area has steadily expanded and stands at 5.9 ml ha for the 2025-26 sugar year, up from 5.7 ml ha last year and the five-year average of 5.2 ml ha.

Compared with the cane production target of 469 MMT and the 2024 production of 450 MMT, this year’s output could decline to between 440 and 460 MMT due to excessive rainfall in growing areas of Maharashtra and Karnataka.

The government has lifted the December 2023 restriction on diverting cane for ethanol production. After accounting for this diversion, sugar production in 2025-26 is likely to be around 30 MMT, slightly less than last year.

—

### Looking Ahead

Rains continued in southern and western parts of the country through the end of September, potentially causing more damage and delaying damage assessments. However, the continuing rains are expected to improve soil moisture, benefiting the Rabi planting season, including major crops such as wheat, rapeseed/mustard, and chickpea, which typically commence in late October.

Reservoir storage levels are satisfactory and higher than last year’s, providing a positive outlook for irrigation.

Given the combined production prospects of Kharif crops, ample public stocks of wheat and rice with government agencies, and a liberal import policy for pulses and edible oil, the risk to food inflation is tilted not to the upside, but potentially to the downside.

If Rabi crop prospects prove satisfactory, food prices may remain consumer-friendly. Nevertheless, weather conditions in the coming months will be a critical factor to watch.

—

**Note:** Except for the forecast of Kharif 2025 crop production (based on G. Chandrashekhar’s proprietary research), all data—including acreage, rainfall, and production targets—are official government figures.

—

*G. Chandrashekhar is an economist, senior editor, and policy commentator specializing in agribusiness and commodity markets. The views expressed here are personal.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/analysis/indias-above-normal-monsoon-brings-mixed-fortunes-for-kharif-crops-excess-rainfall-damages-paddy-pulses-cotton

coaching, cricket, india, sports

Varun Chakravarthy hails Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir

2025 年 10 月 7 日 admin Leave a comment

By Parth Dhall | Oct 07, 2025 | 09:31 PM

**Varun Chakravarthy Praises Coach Gambhir for Instilling ‘Spartan Mentality’ in Team**

India’s top-ranked T20I bowler, Varun Chakravarthy, has lauded head coach Gautam Gambhir for fostering a “Spartan mentality” within the team. Under Gambhir’s guidance, Chakravarthy says there is “no option of losing,” and players are expected to give their absolute best on the field.

Chakravarthy, who has been in sublime form recently, credited both Gambhir and T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav (SKY) for his international comeback after nearly a three-year hiatus from the Indian team.

### Support System: Gambhir and SKY Backed Me During My Absence

Reflecting on his return to the national side, Chakravarthy acknowledged the backing he received from Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav as a key wicket-taker. Speaking at the CEAT Cricket Rating Awards in Mumbai on Tuesday, he shared how their support was instrumental during his absence from international cricket.

“I was out of the team for more than three years, but I did have a consecutive good IPL. For them to recognize that and bring me into the team was great for me,” Chakravarthy said.

### Career Trajectory: From Debut to Comeback

Varun Chakravarthy first represented India in July 2021. However, following a subpar performance at the ICC T20 World Cup that year, he was dropped from the T20I side. After nearly three years away from international cricket, Chakravarthy was recalled in October 2025.

Since his return, the mystery spinner has become a regular member of India’s T20I squad and has also made his One Day International (ODI) debut. Earlier this year, he played a key role in helping India win the Champions Trophy.

### Areas for Improvement: Gambhir Wants Me to Boost ODI Chances

Despite missing out on India’s ODI squad for the recent Australia tour, Chakravarthy revealed that Gambhir has advised him to work on certain aspects to improve his chances in ODI cricket.

“Basically, the conversations were around bowling longer spells,” Chakravarthy explained. He also mentioned that Gambhir encouraged him to bat higher up the order in domestic cricket and to develop his batting skills further.

### Career Highlights: Stunning Numbers Since Comeback

Since making his T20I comeback, Chakravarthy has taken 38 wickets in 18 matches at an impressive average of 12.94, maintaining an economy rate of 7.23. He has claimed two five-wicket hauls in T20Is after returning to the team against England and South Africa.

By achieving these feats, Chakravarthy became just the third Indian bowler to record multiple five-wicket hauls in T20I cricket, joining the ranks of Kuldeep Yadav and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Overall, he boasts 40 wickets from 24 T20Is at an average of 15.60.

### Team Chemistry: Praising Kuldeep Yadav’s Impressive Run

Chakravarthy also praised fellow spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who emerged as the highest wicket-taker in the 2025 T20 Asia Cup. “Kuldeep is definitely one of the most experienced bowlers right now in the pool of players that we have, and he has done amazingly well,” he said.

The two spinners complement each other effectively with their different bowling styles and varying speeds, adding depth and variety to India’s bowling attack.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/varun-chakravarthy-heaps-praise-on-gautam-gambhir/story