‘Proud moment for Kashmir': Artisan on PM Modi's papier-mache gift to Indonesian President

IANS | July 14, 2026 10:07 PM

Srinagar, July 14 (IANS) Kashmiri papier-mache artisan Basharat Hussain has hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's gesture of gifting a traditional Kashmiri papier-mache bowl to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. He called it a proud moment for the Valley's centuries-old handicraft tradition and a significant recognition of its artistic heritage on the global stage.

Agra artisans thank PM Modi for bringing global recognition to 'Pietra Dura' craftmanship

IANS | July 14, 2026 9:32 PM

Agra, July 14 (IANS) Artisans in Agra, who have been involved in their generational craft of making 'Pietra Dura' artworks, on Tuesday expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after he presented an elegant marble inlay work box featuring the renowned Indian craftmanship to Governor-General of Australia Sam Mostyn AC, during his recent visit to the country.

India-UK FTA kicks in on Wednesday, bilateral trade to get booster shot

IANS | July 14, 2026 9:25 PM

New Delhi, July 14 (IANS) The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which comes into force on Wednesday, represents a “gold standard” FTA due to its wide sectoral coverage that includes farmers, seafood exporters, and labour-intensive industries such as textiles, which will benefit from significant reductions in both tariff and non-tariff barriers, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal said on Wednesday.

India reaffirms peaceful resolution of South China Sea issue under UNCLOS

IANS | July 14, 2026 6:54 PM

New Delhi, July 14 (IANS) Emphasising the importance of freedom of navigation, overflight and lawful maritime commerce in accordance with international law, India on Tuesday reiterated that disputes in the South China Sea must be resolved peacefully under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Did not want to work in PMO, had notion of extra vetting being a Muslim officer, says ex-CEC Quraishi (IANS Exclusive)

IANS | July 14, 2026 6:49 PM

New Delhi, July 14 (IANS) Former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) S.Y. Quraishi on Tuesday said he had declined an offer to serve as Joint Secretary in the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), saying he was uncomfortable with what he perceived as a communal approach towards the posting and wanted to be recognised for his professional merit rather than his religious identity.