Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described the proposed India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as a “landmark moment” in the relationship between the two countries, highlighting its potential to deepen economic engagement.

Speaking on the development, Mr Modi said the ongoing efforts towards a trade pact reflect growing trust, shared values and common ambitions between India and New Zealand. He noted that closer economic cooperation is expected to provide fresh momentum to bilateral ties.

The discussions around the agreement are aimed at strengthening trade and investment flows, while expanding collaboration across sectors such as agriculture, technology, education and innovation. According to the Prime Minister, enhanced engagement could create new opportunities for businesses, professionals and students.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon also described the development as a significant step forward, stating that stronger trade ties could support economic growth and improve market access for exporters in both countries.

Officials indicated that the proposed framework is expected to facilitate smoother trade flows and encourage sectoral cooperation, while contributing to long-term economic partnership.

Mr Modi added that advancing trade relations with New Zealand aligns with India’s broader global economic strategy and could help unlock new opportunities, strengthening ties between the two nations.

Four members of a family, including a couple and their two teenage daughters, died in Mumbai’s Pydhonie area in a suspected case of food poisoning, police said.

The victims — a 40-year-old man, his 35-year-old wife, and their daughters aged 16 and 13 — reportedly fell ill within hours of consuming food at home.

Sequence of events

According to officials, the family had hosted relatives for dinner on the night of April 25. Around nine people ate together during the gathering.

Later that night, after the guests had left, the four family members consumed watermelon.

By early morning on April 26, all four developed severe symptoms, including vomiting and other signs of illness, prompting their hospitalisation. Despite medical efforts, they could not be saved.

Suspicion on watermelon

Initial findings suggest that the watermelon consumed later in the night could be linked to the suspected food poisoning, as other relatives who shared the earlier meal reportedly did not fall ill.

Authorities have registered an accidental death case and launched an investigation. Food samples and biological specimens have been collected for forensic testing to determine the exact cause of death.

Investigation underway

Police said the exact reason behind the deaths will only be confirmed after post-mortem and laboratory reports are completed.

Experts note that while food poisoning is usually treatable, severe cases can turn fatal if caused by high levels of contamination or toxins.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed strong confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will form the next government in West Bengal after the ongoing Assembly elections, stating that he plans to return for the oath-taking ceremony.

Addressing a rally during the final phase of campaigning, the Prime Minister said he would come back to the state after the declaration of results to attend the swearing-in of the BJP government.

Confidence ahead of results

The remarks came during his last campaign event, where he indicated optimism about the party’s electoral performance. The results of the West Bengal Assembly elections are scheduled to be announced on May 4.

He told the gathering that the enthusiasm and public support witnessed during his campaign tours had strengthened his belief that the BJP would secure a mandate in the state.

Campaign concludes amid high political stakes

The Prime Minister’s statement underscores the high-stakes political battle in West Bengal, where the BJP is aiming to challenge the ruling Trinamool Congress. The election has seen intense campaigning from all major parties, with voter turnout remaining high in earlier phases.

The West Bengal Assembly elections are being held in multiple phases, with counting set to determine the next government in the state.