India-EU trade deal could significantly ease market access: Estonia envoy

IANS | October 21, 2026 5:20 PM

New Delhi, Oct 21 (IANS) The proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) could reduce both tariff and non-tariff barriers, creating new opportunities for businesses on both sides, Estonia's Ambassador to India Kristi Karelsohn said on Wednesday, expressing hope that the agreement will be signed by leaders before the end of the year.

Munir's plan to reshape Pakistan provinces raises fears of expanding military grip

IANS | October 21, 2026 4:56 PM

Kabul, Oct 21 (IANS) Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir is considering a sweeping restructuring of the country’s administrative map that could divide its four provinces into as many as 12 to 15 smaller provinces, raising concerns over provincial autonomy and the military’s expanding grip on civilian politics, a report has stated.

Pakistan’s border closures strain economy and connectivity

IANS | October 21, 2026 4:51 PM

New Delhi, Oct 21 (IANS) Pakistan's strained ties with neighbours -- including India -- have effectively left much of its land borders closed to trade and travel, fuelling concerns over the economic costs of prolonged regional isolation, according to a report.

Bangladesh sees 1,147 deaths from measles over weak immunisation

IANS | October 21, 2026 4:41 PM

New Delhi, Oct 21 (IANS) Bangladesh is battling the world’s worst measles outbreak this year due to failure in routine immunisation with over 2,02,000 suspected cases and 1,147 deaths reported since the outbreak began in mid‑March, a new report has said.