IMF backs free trade despite tariffs

IANS | July 9, 2026 10:37 PM

Washington, July 9 (IANS) The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Thursday reaffirmed its support for free trade and open markets despite growing tariff barriers and rising economic nationalism, saying global trade remains essential for raising living standards and reducing poverty, even as it acknowledged that the gains from globalisation have not been shared equally.

Chess: Humpy, Divya, Vaishali among top players in fray at 2026 Cairns Cup

IANS | July 9, 2026 10:33 PM

Saint Louis (USA), July 9 (IANS) Former World Rapid Champion Koneru Humpy, former women's junior World Champion Divya Deshmukh, and 2026 FIDE Women's World Championship Challenger Vaishali Rameshbabu will be among a strong field for the 2026 Cairns Cup chess championship to be held in Saint Louis in August.

Concerns mount over excessive police brutality in Pok amid escalating unrest

IANS | July 9, 2026 9:41 PM

Islamabad July 9 (IANS) As the unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), which has left dozens dead so far, continues to intensify, the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) alleged that Pakistani police brutality, excessive use of force, arbitrary arrests, intimidation, unlawful raids, and violations of fundamental rights have become increasingly widespread in the region.

IMF sees India gaining from supply chain shift

IANS | July 9, 2026 9:34 PM

Washington, July 9 (IANS) India's push to establish itself as a global manufacturing hub is beginning to pay off as international supply chains diversify, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) saying on Thursday that it is already seeing tangible evidence of the shift, particularly in electronics manufacturing, while urging New Delhi to sustain structural reforms to maintain the momentum.