VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html Dombivli hospital row: 2 doctors assaulted by Shiv Sena corporator Ramesh Mhatre quit jobs Mosque effigy atop Northern Ireland bonfire sparks outrage; man arrested after anti-Muslim display Delhi High Court Postpones Salman Khan’s Plea Against Controversial Film Release | Haunted Places In Uttar Pradesh: 5 places in Uttar Pradesh known for paranormal legends and ghost stories; how curious travellers can visit 10 red cards! FIFA’s Argentine referee for France vs Morocco game once became players’ nightmare – here’s what happened Scientists find nanoplastics in Antarctic soil for the first time, including tyre-wear particles, raising concerns that tiny plastic pollution can travel through the atmosphere to Earth’s most remote places Who will be AAP’s principal challenger? NEW DELHI: Who will be the principal challenger to Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party in the 2027 assembly elections in Punjab?On paper, the answer should be Congress. After all, it is the main opposition party in the state, with 18 seats in the assembly, followed by the Shiromani Akali Dal and the BJP in terms of numbers. But a closer look at how the three parties are preparing for the electoral battle suggests the winds may be changing.The BJP, despite having the weakest presence in Punjab at the moment, has made the strongest push so far. The party has dropped enough signals that it intends to go all out in the state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union home minister Amit Shah, BJP president Nitin Nabin and Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini have all already visited Punjab to energise the cadre and reach out to voters. The Prime Minister is scheduled to make another visit to the state later this month and announce mega development projects to reinforce the party’s intent.The Congress should have been best placed to claim the opposition space after its 2024 Lok Sabha performance, but the grand old party is still caught in a web of internal churn and is busy setting its house in order. The SAD, once Punjab’s dominant political force, is trying to rebuild after years of decline. AAP is the party in power, but it will enter the 2027 poll battle with the burden of defending its record in office.That leaves Punjab with a political contest within the electoral contest: before the state decides who forms the next government, the opposition camp has to compete to decide who will lead the fight against AAP.Congress: Strong on paper, split on groundOf the three contenders in the opposition space, it is the Congress which has the numbers, the organisational strength and also the backing of history to claim the opposition space and also perhaps power in Punjab. But to ensure that, the party will first have to settle the battle within its own house. The decision to retain Amrinder Singh Raja Warring as state president while appointing Charanjit Singh Channi as campaign committee chief has triggered an internal friction, much to the delight of the BJP which is leaving no stone unturned to highlight the factionalism within the Punjab Congress. Several Punjab Congress leaders have thrown their weight behind Channi and have asked the high command to reconsider its leadership choices in the state.While AICC general secretary in-charge of Punjab Bhupesh Baghel has asserted that Congress remains “the only option” for the people of the state, the fact that Channi skipped a key Punjab Congress meeting called by him was hard to miss. Apart from Channi, Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa also skipped the meeting.Warring tried to play down crisis in the state unitWarring tried to play down their absence, saying both Channi and Randhawa had informed the party that they were out of town and would be available after a couple of days. Channi, along with a group of loyalists, is reportedly in Delhi to raise concerns over the recent reshuffle of the party’s state unit.Baghel is currently on a five-day tour of Punjab, during which he is scheduled to hold meetings with senior leaders, office-bearers and party workers as part of the Congress’ organisational strengthening exercise. But how much of this will help to defuse the crisis only time will tell.For now, Congress is trying to contain the damage. Baghel has started meeting state leaders. The immediate challenge for the high command is to calm the Channi camp without upsetting Warring. The party has not announced any changes yet, but leaders close to Channi want their concerns to be heard by the central leadership.Baghel has made it clear that ‘no one is above the party high command’Until then, Congress will have to manage two battles at once: projecting unity against AAP in Punjab, and preventing the leadership tussle from becoming big enough to give the BJP an opening.BJP playbook in actionThe BJP, which already has 23 states in its kitty, has dropped enough hints that it is going for the kill in Punjab this time. The saffron party’s tried, tested and templated three-fold strategy for winning states is already in motion. The first is “absorption through defection politics”, which includes importing established leaders from other parties to make up for weak organisational strength. The second is to ambush the ruling party by aggressively highlighting its failings and exploiting its faultlines. The third is to amplify the benefits of a double-engine government for the state’s development by promising a host of central support and projects.All three strategies are in play in Punjab.The first round of leaders was “imported” from the Congress during and after the 2022 assembly elections. The second round of defections was from AAP, led by Kejriwal’s once-trusted aide Raghav Chadha, who along with six other MPs is now part of the BJP camp. As the elections approach, this list is likely to grow longer.The BJP has been unrelenting in its attacks on the AAP government, with all top leaders chipping in to build and sustain pressure. From drugs to the sacrilege video row and corruption, the list is long.Finally, the third component of the BJP’s playbook is also in action: promises of a better and more secure future for Punjab, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself leading this drive. Union minister Ravneet Singh Bittu has announced that PM Modi will visit Punjab this month to inaugurate several major development projects. He further said the Union government has ensured that there is no shortage of funds for Punjab’s development, and that significant investments are being made in infrastructure, connectivity and public welfare sectors.“The people of Punjab are witnessing the difference between a government focused on development and an opposition consumed by internal adjustments and distribution of posts,” Bittu said in a statement.This will be the PM’s second visit to the state. In February, PM Modi had visited Punjab to mark the 649th Birth Anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas Ji. During the trip, he renamed Adampur Airport to Sri Guru Ravidas Ji Airport, Adampur. He also inaugurated the new Terminal Building at Halwara Airport in Ludhiana.Clearly, the BJP is leaving no stone unturned to implement its Punjab plan, and that should keep both AAP and Congress worried.SAD: Old force, shrinking spaceAs for the Shiromani Akali Dal which dominated state politics for long, the party has been pushed to the corner after snapping ties with the BJP. The party and its leaders have been active on the ground, missing no opportunity to attack the Bhagwant Mann government and mobilising cadres.But SAD’s challenge is that the political space it once occupied is now crowded. AAP has eaten into its rural and Sikh support base, Congress remains the larger opposition force on paper, and the BJP is trying to expand after breaking out of its old junior-partner role.AAP confidence of winThe possibility of a renewed SAD-BJP alliance also appears unlikely. The BJP has already dismissed speculation of a possible tie-up, with Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri making it clear that the party would never accept the role of a “younger brother” or junior partner.In the 2022 assembly polls, the BJP won two seats while SAD recorded its worst-ever electoral performance, winning just three. For SAD, 2027 is less about defeating AAP. It is more about proving that it still belongs in Punjab’s main opposition race.The war is onPunjab, therefore, is heading into the 2027 assembly test with all four major players facing very different challenges.So, while AAP tries to defend its only turf, its challengers are locked in an intense battle to take the pole position. Congress remains the main opposition for now, but its own leadership tussle could weaken its claim to that space. This even as the BJP is trying to spring a surprise in Punjab, just as it did in Odisha and Bengal.That makes the 2027 Punjab contest AAP versus who? For now, the war is on.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorPriyanka MukherjeePriyanka Mukherjee is an Assistant News Editor at The Times of India, where deadlines rarely slow down. Often juggling breaking news, long-form explainers and the everyday chaos of the newsroom, she is usually managing stress, chasing clarity and trying to log off on time (rarely successful). She also cares deeply about stories around women’s rights and social change, while two very opinionated dogs make sure she never truly switches off.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAustralia To Return Three Historic Indian Artefacts During PM Modi’s VisitTensions In MVA As Sanjay Raut Slams Sharad Pawar For Holding Meeting At Eknath Shinde’s OfficeIndia, Myanmar Review Border Security, Intelligence Sharing’Hit With Iron Rod’: Bengaluru PT Teacher Booked After Allegedly Beating 12-Year-Old To DeathIndian Railways Clarifies Digital Ticket Rules: Only Original Rail One App Ticket Will Be AcceptedIndia and Australia Finalise Uranium Export Arrangement Under Civil Nuclear AgreementUGC-NET Under Scanner After Alleged Paper Leak; Education Ministry Seeks NTA InvestigationDRDO Successfully Tests Pinaka Long-Range Guided Rocket; Hits Target With Pinpoint AccuracyBuilding Collapses In Delhi’s Rohini; 1 Dead, Several Trapped; Rescue Ops UnderwayPune Building Buried Under Collapsing Garbage Mound, 16 Feared Trapped Amid Heavy Rain Fury123Photostories7 Plants with leaves and flowers that naturally stain and dyeFrom a Rs 2.5 crore watch to Shikhar Pahariya’s name in her mehendi: Inside Janhvi Kapoor’s most talked-about moments at Anshula Kapoor’s weddingFeeling better isn’t a reason to stop antibiotics: Doctor warns the habit is fueling the rise of deadly superbugsShould you apply coconut oil before or after washing your hair? Experts finally settle the debate10 international baby names that work across different culturesAamir Khan’s rare ruby wedding ring for Gauri Spratt took 256 hours and 131 artisans to createPowerful life lessons Japanese parents teach their children that the rest of the world can learn fromClear your bowels naturally every morning with these 10 foodsReal Madrid star Kylian Mbappé’s ₹120 crore mansion in Spain features 8 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms and a private golf areaWant to leave a lasting impression? Start with these everyday habits attractive women swear by123Hot PicksIndia-AustraliaTiesOmar AbdullahNew EPFO portalMahadev AppNET paper leakMonsoon trackerStock market todayStrait of HormuzAP DEECET rank cardTop TrendingCrude oilRamesh MhatreUS Section 301FIFA World Cup 2026India u19 vs Sri Lanka U19Andhra Hospital MurderWeather todayDelhi NCR rainBihar BDO Wife MurderIran war 7 Plants with leaves and flowers that naturally stain and dye Did Sudhanshu Pandey take a dig at Sunita Ahuja for using foul language on Lock Upp 2? says ‘Wife of a Very Senior Actor…’ | Orlando Bloom bought this Beverly Hills home for $7 million, redesigned it for 18 months, sold it for about the same price, and now it rents for $31,000 a month NEW DELHI: Southwest (summer) monsoon covered the entire country by advancing into remaining parts of Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab on Thursday, one day after the normal date (July 8) of covering entire India, said IMD.It took 36 days for the monsoon to cover the entire country after making a three-day delayed onset over Kerala on June 4. Normally, the monsoon covers the entire India in 38 days (June 1-July 8). It usually starts retreating from northwest India around Sept 17 and fully withdraws by Oct 15.Early/delayed onset or early/delayed coverage, however, doesn’t impact quantitative or spatial aspects of rainfall during the four-month monsoon season. But it certainly guides the progress of kharif (summer sown) crops sowing operations and choice of crops as farmers have to take calls on the basis of the irrigation cycle a crop may need.Backed by good rains in the past eight days, the monsoon, meanwhile, reduced its overall nationwide cumulative (June 1-July 9) deficit from 40% on June 30 to 14% on Thursday. Its skewed distribution, however, throws up a different challenge, with 10 states such as Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Punjab, Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Goa still reporting big deficits.As a result, sowing operations remained sluggish in these states, affecting the overall acreage. Data available till July 6 shows that the acreage of Kharif crops was reported 21% down compared to the corresponding period last year, with paddy, pulses, oilseeds, millets and cotton reporting a decline in sown area compared to 2025.The current respite from the low phase of monsoon is likely to be short-lived in certain parts of the country as the Met department on Thursday predicted “significant reduction in rainfall activity” over central India, including Maharashtra, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, and south peninsular India in the coming days.Its impact is likely to be felt in the ‘monsoon core zone’ — the rain-fed area which largely depends on monsoon rains for farming operations.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorVishwa MohanVishwa Mohan is Senior Editor at The Times of India. He writes on environment, climate change, agriculture, water resources and clean energy, tracking policy issues and climate diplomacy. He has been covering Parliament since 2003 to see how politics shaped up domestic policy and India’s position at global platform. Before switching over to explore sustainable development issues, Vishwa had covered internal security and investigative agencies for more than a decade.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTensions In MVA As Sanjay Raut Slams Sharad Pawar For Holding Meeting At Eknath Shinde’s OfficeIndia, Myanmar Review Border Security, Intelligence Sharing’Hit With Iron Rod’: Bengaluru PT Teacher Booked After Allegedly Beating 12-Year-Old To DeathIndian Railways Clarifies Digital Ticket Rules: Only Original Rail One App Ticket Will Be AcceptedIndia and Australia Finalise Uranium Export Arrangement Under Civil Nuclear AgreementUGC-NET Under Scanner After Alleged Paper Leak; Education Ministry Seeks NTA InvestigationDRDO Successfully Tests Pinaka Long-Range Guided Rocket; Hits Target With Pinpoint AccuracyBuilding Collapses In Delhi’s Rohini; 1 Dead, Several Trapped; Rescue Ops UnderwayPune Building Buried Under Collapsing Garbage Mound, 16 Feared Trapped Amid Heavy Rain FuryShiv Sena Corporator Ramesh Mhatre Arrested In KDMC Doctors’ Assault Case: Police123PhotostoriesFeeling better isn’t a reason to stop antibiotics: Doctor warns the habit is fueling the rise of deadly superbugsShould you apply coconut oil before or after washing your hair? Experts finally settle the debate10 international baby names that work across different culturesAamir Khan’s rare ruby wedding ring for Gauri Spratt took 256 hours and 131 artisans to createPowerful life lessons Japanese parents teach their children that the rest of the world can learn fromClear your bowels naturally every morning with these 10 foodsReal Madrid star Kylian Mbappé’s ₹120 crore mansion in Spain features 8 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms and a private golf areaWant to leave a lasting impression? Start with these everyday habits attractive women swear by”Eat this before your meal”: Sadhguru recommends eating a simple food combination before every meal; recipe and benefits insideJanhvi Kapoor trades her ethereal Apsara saree for a regal midnight blue Mayyur Girotra kalidar at Anshula Kapoor’s wedding reception123Hot PicksIndia-AustraliaTiesOmar AbdullahNew EPFO portalMahadev AppNET paper leakMonsoon trackerStock market todayStrait of HormuzAP DEECET rank cardTop TrendingCrude oilRamesh MhatreUS Section 301FIFA World Cup 2026India u19 vs Sri Lanka U19Andhra Hospital MurderWeather todayDelhi NCR rainBihar BDO Wife MurderIran war Strait of Hormuz toll proposal: What are the key waterways in the world & is there a fee to transit them? AIIMS INI SS round 2 seat allocation result 2026 released at aiimsexams.ac.in: Direct link to download scorecards here India’s first Hydrogen Train to launch on July 17: What every rail traveller should know; fare, schedule and more | Bake This One Specific Comfort Food to Attract Home Prosperity Video shows fighter jet escorting slain Iran Supreme Leader Khamenei’s coffin to Mashhad A 2,500-year-old warrior prince tomb found in Italy had a chariot, helmet and weapons still inside 12 Bingson John, 69, who idolised serial killer Charles Sobhraj, arrested after 36-year, 300-hotel con spree across India.Three former TMC Rajya Sabha MPs — Sushmita Dev, Sukhendu Sekhar Ray and Prakash Chik Baraik — joined BJP in Kolkata amid growing rebellion in the party.US projectiles struck areas around Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant, according to a provincial official, though details on damage remain unclear.Germany has recorded over 5,100 heat-related deaths as Europe continues to reel under a record-breaking summer heatwave.England pacer Jofra Archer has thrown down a challenge to India’s Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ahead of the 4th T20I, saying “may the best man win.”Here are the top 5 stories of the day’Five-star food or prison meals’: ‘Bikini Killer’ Charles Sobhraj admirer’s 36-year luxury hotel trail baffles copsA 69-year-old man who idolised notorious serial killer and conman Charles Sobhraj has been arrested after allegedly cheating nearly 300 luxury hotels across India over 36 years. Bingson John, a Tamil Nadu native, was caught from Bhubaneswar within 72 hours after he checked out of a Raipur five-star hotel without paying a Rs 63,755 bill and fleeing with a rented laptop worth Rs 1.48 lakh. Police said John modelled his lifestyle on Sobhraj, frequently posing as a foreign tour guide, English teacher or yoga instructor to gain trust. He has spent nearly 15 years in prisons across the country, describing luxury hotels as his “tourist destinations” and prison as his “home stay.” Read full story.Setback for Mamata Banerjee: Three former TMC Rajya Sabha members join BJP in KolkataThree former Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha members formally joined the BJP at the party’s Salt Lake office on Thursday, weeks after resigning from the TMC amid growing internal rebellion. Sushmita Dev, Sukhendu Sekhar Ray and Prakash Chik Baraik were inducted in the presence of West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya. The defections come as the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC continues to face turmoil following its defeat in the West Bengal assembly elections, with reports suggesting around 20 Lok Sabha MPs have aligned with a rebel faction led by expelled MLA Ritabrata Banerjee. Read full story.Area around Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant struck by US projectiles: OfficialProjectiles fired by the United States struck areas around Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant on Thursday, according to Ehsan Jahaniyan, deputy governor of Bushehr province. Quoted by state news agency IRNA, the official said several locations in the province were hit around midday but did not provide immediate details on any damage at or near the nuclear facility. The strike comes amid escalating US-Iran military tensions, with both sides exchanging attacks in recent days. Follow live updates.Germany records over 5,100 heat deaths under record-breaking summerGermany has recorded more than 5,100 heat-related deaths as Europe continues to grapple with a record-breaking summer heatwave. The extreme temperatures have overwhelmed healthcare systems, damaged infrastructure and disrupted daily life across the continent, with scientists linking the intensity of the heatwave to climate change. Read full story.’May the best man win’: Jofra Archer throws down challenge to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ahead of 4th T20IEngland pacer Jofra Archer has issued a challenge to India’s Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ahead of the fourth T20I between the two sides, saying “may the best man win.” The remark adds to the growing rivalry between the two teams as the series progresses. The match is set to be a crucial encounter as both teams look to gain an upper hand. Read full story.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTensions In MVA As Sanjay Raut Slams Sharad Pawar For Holding Meeting At Eknath Shinde’s OfficeIndia, Myanmar Review Border Security, Intelligence Sharing’Hit With Iron Rod’: Bengaluru PT Teacher Booked After Allegedly Beating 12-Year-Old To DeathIndian Railways Clarifies Digital Ticket Rules: Only Original Rail One App Ticket Will Be AcceptedIndia and Australia Finalise Uranium Export Arrangement Under Civil Nuclear AgreementUGC-NET Under Scanner After Alleged Paper Leak; Education Ministry Seeks NTA InvestigationDRDO Successfully Tests Pinaka Long-Range Guided Rocket; Hits Target With Pinpoint AccuracyBuilding Collapses In Delhi’s Rohini; 1 Dead, Several Trapped; Rescue Ops UnderwayPune Building Buried Under Collapsing Garbage Mound, 16 Feared Trapped Amid Heavy Rain FuryShiv Sena Corporator Ramesh Mhatre Arrested In KDMC Doctors’ Assault Case: Police123PhotostoriesShould you apply coconut oil before or after washing your hair? Experts finally settle the debate10 international baby names that work across different culturesAamir Khan’s rare ruby wedding ring for Gauri Spratt took 256 hours and 131 artisans to createPowerful life lessons Japanese parents teach their children that the rest of the world can learn fromClear your bowels naturally every morning with these 10 foodsReal Madrid star Kylian Mbappé’s ₹120 crore mansion in Spain features 8 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms and a private golf areaWant to leave a lasting impression? Start with these everyday habits attractive women swear by”Eat this before your meal”: Sadhguru recommends eating a simple food combination before every meal; recipe and benefits insideJanhvi Kapoor trades her ethereal Apsara saree for a regal midnight blue Mayyur Girotra kalidar at Anshula Kapoor’s wedding reception5 natural sources of retinol that can help reduce signs of ageing123Hot PicksIndia-AustraliaTiesOmar AbdullahNew EPFO portalMahadev AppNET paper leakMonsoon trackerStock market todayStrait of HormuzAP DEECET rank cardTop TrendingCrude oilRamesh MhatreUS Section 301FIFA World Cup 2026India u19 vs Sri Lanka U19Andhra Hospital MurderWeather todayDelhi NCR rainBihar BDO Wife MurderIran war India vs England 4th T20I Live Score: Shreyas Iyer’s men face do-or-die against Harry Brook’s in from England at County Ground, Bristol US stock market today: Wall Street, oil prices steady after sharp swings yesterday Jharkhand PECE admit card 2026 released at polycet.jceceb.org.in: Direct link to download hall tickets Cab driver says, ‘I’m not your servant’ after passenger lights cigarette mid-ride; internet is split Dombivli hospital assault: Doctors treat arrested Shiv Sena corporator even as colleagues protest outside ICU Scientists have filmed a rare 125-million-year-old goblin shark alive in its natural deep-sea habitat for the first time, revealing a new depth record and a wider Pacific range Stationary vehicle does not escape liability if improperly parked; Calcutta High Court enhances compensation for deceased homemaker ‘Aashiqui’ was based on Mahesh Bhatt’s romance with first wife Lorraine, the fairytale ended with his relationship with Parveen Babi, Pooja Bhatt says, ‘my mother defended his marriage to Soni Razdan’ 10 international baby names that work across different cultures Lake Powell and Lake Mead are both running dangerously low, and scientists now say one radical idea could help: drain most of Lake Powell and store the water in Lake Mead instead Watch: F-16 burst into flames after crash-landing at Greek island airport; pilot safe ‎Meet Bakari, the 21-year-old gorilla chosen to lead Disney’s famous troop after the death of its longtime silverback ‘May the best man win’: Jofra Archer throws down challenge to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ahead of 4th T20I | Cricket News Bonnie Tyler passes at 85: Bryan Adams, Catherine Zeta Jones, Sir Cliff Richard, and more share tributes Monsoon demands extra attention for children: The after-school routine every parent should follow | CM Vijay’s ‘Jana Nayagan’ finally gets an ‘A’ certificate from CBFC after months of legal battle and delays, after release date announcement | ‘Dangerous world demands hard power’: PM-in-waiting Andy Burnham vows to rebuild UK’s military, defence sector New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on Thursday announced that 57 per cent of the country’s exports to India will be “tariff-free from day one” under the proposed India-New Zealand trade deal, a day ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic two-day state visit to the country.Taking to social media platform X, Luxon said the agreement would provide a major boost to New Zealand businesses by expanding their access to the Indian market.”New Zealand businesses are set to boom with our India Trade Deal.” He added, “57% of everything we export to India will be tariff free from day one.”The announcement comes ahead of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to New Zealand from July 10 to 11, which follows an invitation from his Kiwi counterpart. The visit marks the first state visit by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in nearly four decades.Earlier, while announcing PM Modi’s maiden official visit to New Zealand, Luxon had said on X, “I’m delighted to announce that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make his first official visit to New Zealand next week.”Highlighting the significance of India for New Zealand’s economy, Luxon said the relationship between the two countries was entering a new phase through the trade agreement.”We are taking the two countries’ relationship to the next level with our New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement, signed in April, which will deliver more jobs, higher exports and stronger economic growth for New Zealand,” he said.Luxon also underlined the market access that the agreement would provide for New Zealand exporters. “Bringing more money into Kiwi communities, creating jobs and lifting wages.”According to the announcement, the agreement will open opportunities for New Zealand goods and services by providing access to a consumer market of 1.4 billion people.India and New Zealand signed the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) earlier this year to deepen bilateral trade, boost investment and expand cooperation across goods and services. Under the framework, all Indian exports will receive duty-free access to the New Zealand market.For India, the agreement is expected to strengthen its presence in a high-income Pacific economy as part of its broader Indo-Pacific economic strategy. For New Zealand, it provides greater access to one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies amid global trade uncertainty.During his visit to Auckland, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Luxon to review the full spectrum of India-New Zealand ties, with a focus on trade, commerce and defence cooperation. He is also expected to meet business and sports leaders and address the Indian diaspora.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI World DeskAt TOI World Desk, our dedicated team of seasoned journalists and passionate writers tirelessly sifts through the vast tapestry of global events to bring you the latest news and diverse perspectives round the clock. With an unwavering commitment to accuracy, depth, and timeliness, we strive to keep you informed about the ever-evolving world, delivering a nuanced understanding of international affairs to our readers. Join us on a journey across continents as we unravel the stories that shape our interconnected world.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTensions In MVA As Sanjay Raut Slams Sharad Pawar For Holding Meeting At Eknath Shinde’s OfficeIndia, Myanmar Review Border Security, Intelligence Sharing’Hit With Iron Rod’: Bengaluru PT Teacher Booked After Allegedly Beating 12-Year-Old To DeathIndian Railways Clarifies Digital Ticket Rules: Only Original Rail One App Ticket Will Be AcceptedIndia and Australia Finalise Uranium Export Arrangement Under Civil Nuclear AgreementUGC-NET Under Scanner After Alleged Paper Leak; Education Ministry Seeks NTA InvestigationDRDO Successfully Tests Pinaka Long-Range Guided Rocket; Hits Target With Pinpoint AccuracyBuilding Collapses In Delhi’s Rohini; 1 Dead, Several Trapped; Rescue Ops UnderwayPune Building Buried Under Collapsing Garbage Mound, 16 Feared Trapped Amid Heavy Rain FuryShiv Sena Corporator Ramesh Mhatre Arrested In KDMC Doctors’ Assault Case: Police123PhotostoriesAamir Khan’s rare ruby wedding ring for Gauri Spratt took 256 hours and 131 artisans to createPowerful life lessons Japanese parents teach their children that the rest of the world can learn fromClear your bowels naturally every morning with these 10 foodsReal Madrid star Kylian Mbappé’s ₹120 crore mansion in Spain features 8 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms and a private golf areaWant to leave a lasting impression? Start with these everyday habits attractive women swear by”Eat this before your meal”: Sadhguru recommends eating a simple food combination before every meal; recipe and benefits insideJanhvi Kapoor trades her ethereal Apsara saree for a regal midnight blue Mayyur Girotra kalidar at Anshula Kapoor’s wedding reception5 natural sources of retinol that can help reduce signs of ageing’Alliance’ row: Kamya Punjabi stands by Kushal Tandon as Zareen Khan and Uorfi Javed call out his behaviour – all you need to knowPsychology says people who always save the best bite for last often share these personality traits123Hot PicksIndia-AustraliaTiesOmar AbdullahNew EPFO portalMahadev AppNET paper leakMonsoon trackerStock market todayStrait of HormuzAP DEECET rank cardTop TrendingCrude oilRamesh MhatreUS Section 301FIFA World Cup 2026India u19 vs Sri Lanka U19Andhra Hospital MurderWeather todayDelhi NCR rainBihar BDO Wife MurderIran war Axar Patel makes big confession ahead of his 100th T20I: ‘I never imagined this’ “What is going on in CBSE?” Class 10 students grow anxious as second board result delay stretches to 50 days ‘Most challenging thing ever’: Rashmika Mandanna shares BTS moments from ‘Mysaa’ featuring the first female underwater fight sequence 10 Gen Alpha words every parent should know in 2026 Why the world’s navies are going deep: Canada’s mega submarine deal explained Nasa captures stunning view of Super Typhoon Bavi from space Congress targets PM Modi for giving China ‘clean chit’ NEW DELHI: The Congress on Thursday accused the BJP of increasing India’s economic dependence on China despite the 2020 Galwan clash, alleging that Beijing has gained a dominant position in several strategic sectors under the current administration.Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, citing a media report and official trade data, claimed that Chinese imports had expanded significantly across industries critical to India’s economy, including pharmaceuticals, electric vehicles and renewable energy.”Six years ago, PM Narendra Modi handed over a clean chit to China after our 20 brave soldiers made the supreme sacrifice in Galwan. Our bravehearts chose martyrdom, but the Modi government has surrendered India’s interests to China,” Kharge said in a post on X.Kharge alleged that India’s imports from China had risen by 101.81 per cent since the Galwan clash, pushing the bilateral trade deficit to USD 112.1 billion in 2025-26.He claimed China supplied 86 per cent of India’s antibiotic imports and accounted for nearly 74 per cent of imports of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), bulk drugs and drug intermediates during 2024-25.The Congress chief also alleged that 66 per cent of India’s electric vehicle component imports originated from China, while nearly three-fourths of imported lithium-ion batteries used in Indian EVs were Chinese. He further claimed that China supplied around 93 per cent of India’s permanent magnet imports in 2025-26.On the renewable energy sector, Kharge alleged that China supplied more than 99 per cent of India’s undiffused silicon wafer imports in 2025-26, calling it a near-total dominance of a sector that the government has identified as central to its Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.The Congress leader also criticised the Centre’s reported decision to allow four Chinese companies to bid for government power projects, alleging that it had “rolled out the red carpet” for what he referred to as PM Modi’s “Jhoola Friend”.He further alleged that China continued to encroach on Indian territory in Arunachal Pradesh and Ladakh and claimed Beijing’s role in Pakistan’s actions during Operation Sindoor had been acknowledged by the Deputy Chief of Army Staff.”Modi government has hurt India’s national interests by letting Beijing capture India’s most critical industries since Galwan. Now they are opening more opportunities for the Chinese to flourish under the lens of his tinted ‘Laal Aankh’!” Kharge said.There was no immediate response from the Centre or the Bharatiya Janata Party to the Congress’ allegations.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTensions In MVA As Sanjay Raut Slams Sharad Pawar For Holding Meeting At Eknath Shinde’s OfficeIndia, Myanmar Review Border Security, Intelligence Sharing’Hit With Iron Rod’: Bengaluru PT Teacher Booked After Allegedly Beating 12-Year-Old To DeathIndian Railways Clarifies Digital Ticket Rules: Only Original Rail One App Ticket Will Be AcceptedIndia and Australia Finalise Uranium Export Arrangement Under Civil Nuclear AgreementUGC-NET Under Scanner After Alleged Paper Leak; Education Ministry Seeks NTA InvestigationDRDO Successfully Tests Pinaka Long-Range Guided Rocket; Hits Target With Pinpoint AccuracyBuilding Collapses In Delhi’s Rohini; 1 Dead, Several Trapped; Rescue Ops UnderwayPune Building Buried Under Collapsing Garbage Mound, 16 Feared Trapped Amid Heavy Rain FuryShiv Sena Corporator Ramesh Mhatre Arrested In KDMC Doctors’ Assault Case: Police123PhotostoriesAamir Khan’s rare ruby wedding ring for Gauri Spratt took 256 hours and 131 artisans to createPowerful life lessons Japanese parents teach their children that the rest of the world can learn fromClear your bowels naturally every morning with these 10 foodsReal Madrid star Kylian Mbappé’s ₹120 crore mansion in Spain features 8 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms and a private golf areaWant to leave a lasting impression? 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How it is different from CBSE and ICSE; factors parents should consider before choosing it for their child | NHL Trade Rumor: Detroit Red Wings emerge as a landing spot for $57.5M Columbus Blue Jackets’ defenseman Italy’s 007 scandal: Two Russian military attaches expelled over spying Sukhendu Sekhar Roy, Sushmita Dev and Prakash Chik Baraik (L-R) NEW DELHI: Former Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders Sushmita Dev, Sukhendu Sekhar Ray and Prakash Chik Baraik formally joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Kolkata on Thursday, weeks after resigning from the TMC amid growing rebellion within the party.The three leaders were inducted into the BJP at the party’s Salt Lake office in the presence of West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya and other senior leaders. Bhattacharya welcomed them by presenting BJP flags and said their political experience would strengthen the party in the state.Their induction comes as the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC continues to face internal turmoil following its defeat in the West Bengal assembly elections. The crisis began after a large group of MLAs broke away under the leadership of expelled MLA Ritabrata Banerjee, with several MPs also backing the rival camp. Rebel MPs have sought separate seating arrangements in Parliament and have held meetings with senior BJP leaders, fuelling speculation about more defections.Reacting to the development, senior TMC leader Kunal Ghosh said the party had given Sukhendu Sekhar Ray political opportunities that he did not receive before joining the TMC.Speaking to reporters, Ghosh said, “See everyone knows that Sukhendu Sekhar, who is a senior leader, prior to 2011, he never became MP or MLA. Respecting him, Mamata Banerjee sent him to Rajya Sabha. Today he joined BJP… They did not leave when Mamata Banerjee was the CM, public is seeing everything.”The three leaders had resigned from both the TMC and as Rajya Sabha leaders last month.After quitting the party, Sushmita Dev said her decision was based on both political and personal reasons.”It is a long story why I left TMC. I don’t want to be in a situation where I am in two boats at the same time. I will not comment on Mamata Didi,” she had said.She added, “I had political and personal reasons to do this. In an independent country, a politician can take any decision in their political life. I express gratitude towards the people of Bengal, but I have to work in Assam.”Sukhendu Sekhar Ray, who was among the first senior leaders to resign, had launched a sharp attack on the TMC after stepping down. He blamed the party’s electoral defeat on what he described as years of poor governance and had also alleged that he could have been targeted had he resigned during the RG Kar hospital controversy.”I have met Rajya Sabha chairman and submitted my resignation. I have conveyed my decision to resigning from the party through WhatsApp and email to Mamata Banerjee. I had my tenure till 2029 in the Rajya Sabha, but I have resigned in principle from the party as it would be difficult for me to continue,” he added further,” Ray wrote in his resignation letter. Prakash Chik Baraik resigned from the Rajya Sabha shortly after Dev and Ray, further deepening concerns over dissent within the TMC.”I hereby resign from the membership of the Rajya Sabha. Kindly accept my resignation with immediate effect,” Baraik wrote in his letter.The political crisis has intensified in recent weeks, with reports suggesting that around 20 Lok Sabha MPs have aligned with the rebel faction led by Ritabrata Banerjee. The dissident camp has claimed it represents the “real TMC” while ruling out any merger with the Congress.Meanwhile, Mamata in a video address accused the rival faction of betraying the party.”People shouldn’t forgive TMC leaders who are traitors, sided with BJP; don’t try to sail on two boats, there’s still time to look back and address barbarity,” she said.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosTensions In MVA As Sanjay Raut Slams Sharad Pawar For Holding Meeting At Eknath Shinde’s OfficeIndia, Myanmar Review Border Security, Intelligence Sharing’Hit With Iron Rod’: Bengaluru PT Teacher Booked After Allegedly Beating 12-Year-Old To DeathIndian Railways Clarifies Digital Ticket Rules: Only Original Rail One App Ticket Will Be AcceptedIndia and Australia Finalise Uranium Export Arrangement Under Civil Nuclear AgreementUGC-NET Under Scanner After Alleged Paper Leak; Education Ministry Seeks NTA InvestigationDRDO Successfully Tests Pinaka Long-Range Guided Rocket; Hits Target With Pinpoint AccuracyBuilding Collapses In Delhi’s Rohini; 1 Dead, Several Trapped; Rescue Ops UnderwayPune Building Buried Under Collapsing Garbage Mound, 16 Feared Trapped Amid Heavy Rain FuryShiv Sena Corporator Ramesh Mhatre Arrested In KDMC Doctors’ Assault Case: Police123PhotostoriesAamir Khan’s rare ruby wedding ring for Gauri Spratt took 256 hours and 131 artisans to createPowerful life lessons Japanese parents teach their children that the rest of the world can learn fromClear your bowels naturally every morning with these 10 foodsReal Madrid star Kylian Mbappé’s ₹120 crore mansion in Spain features 8 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms and a private golf areaWant to leave a lasting impression? Start with these everyday habits attractive women swear by”Eat this before your meal”: Sadhguru recommends eating a simple food combination before every meal; recipe and benefits insideJanhvi Kapoor trades her ethereal Apsara saree for a regal midnight blue Mayyur Girotra kalidar at Anshula Kapoor’s wedding reception5 natural sources of retinol that can help reduce signs of ageing’Alliance’ row: Kamya Punjabi stands by Kushal Tandon as Zareen Khan and Uorfi Javed call out his behaviour – all you need to knowPsychology says people who always save the best bite for last often share these personality traits123Hot PicksIndia-AustraliaTiesOmar AbdullahNew EPFO portalMahadev AppNET paper leakMonsoon trackerStock market todayStrait of HormuzAP DEECET rank cardTop TrendingCrude oilRamesh MhatreUS Section 301FIFA World Cup 2026India u19 vs Sri Lanka U19Andhra Hospital MurderWeather todayDelhi NCR rainBihar BDO Wife MurderIran war