Commodities

Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of insulting India’s historical figures while the Congress accused Modi of twisting statements to stir communal sentiments. Various political parties made promises and allegations ahead of upcoming elections in different states, while controversies arose, such as the AAP's campaign song being banned.

India's steel imports witnessed a significant surge of 38% during the 2023-24 financial year, pushing the country into the position of a net importer of the commodity. This development has raised concerns among industry leaders, with Tata Steel CEO T V Narendran urging the government to take necessary steps to address the issue, particularly unfair import practices.

Kiril Petkov, co-chairman of the We Continue the Change - Democratic Bulgaria (PP-DB) coalition, has expressed deep regret over the decision to form a joint government with GERB-SDS. In a recent interview with BNR, Petkov acknowledged that the coalition made a "big mistake" by partnering with GERB, as they were unaware of the extent to which GERB leader Boyko Borisov was reliant on DPS co-chairman Ahmed Dogan.

The spawning season for ito, a critically endangered fish, is drawing to a close in the Kushirogawa river water system in eastern Hokkaido. Despite facing challenges from sediment pollution, the ito continue their fight for survival, with males engaging in fierce battles for the attention of females.

The ayu catch in Lake Biwako has plummeted to a record low, with the January haul only 3% of the average due to poor spawning conditions caused by last summer's scorching heat. This has resulted in difficulties fulfilling orders and financial strain for fishermen and fisheries cooperative associations.