Apple assures India of unchanged manufacturing plans despite Trump remarks: Report
New Delhi: Apple has reportedly assured Indian government officials that its manufacturing and investment plans in the country remain intact, despite US President Donald Trump’s recent remarks urging the tech giant to halt its production of iPhones in India.
“I had a little problem with Tim Cook yesterday. I said to him, Tim, you’re my friend, but now I hear you’re building all over India. I don’t want you building in India if you want to take care of India,” Trump said.
Trump claimed Apple would now “up their production in the United States,” though he did not provide further details. He also indicated that iPhones meant for the Indian market could continue to be made in India, but the same would not be done for US consumers.
Despite the remarks, Apple has reportedly reaffirmed its commitment to India. According to sources quoted by India Today, Apple assured Indian officials that the country remains a vital part of its global supply chain. "Apple has said that its investment plans in India are intact and it proposes to continue to have India as a major manufacturing base for its products," one official said.
Currently, India accounts for about 15 percent of Apple's global iPhone output. In FY25, iPhones worth over Rs 1.5 lakh crore were exported from India, with the majority of shipments directed to the US.
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Inappropriate for MLAs seeking free IPL tickets, says D.K. Suresh
Bengaluru: Bengaluru Milk Union Ltd President D.K. Suresh on Monday said it is inappropriate for MLAs to seek free IPL tickets, adding that those interested in watching matches should pay for them personally.
Speaking to reporters near his residence in Sadashivanagar, he said, “IPL is a commercial tournament and does not represent the country. It is not right for public representatives to focus too much on such matters.”
Referring to the recent controversy during the RCB celebrations, he said, “let us find out who benefited the most from the statements made during the incident.” He also pointed out that BJP MLAs had received IPL tickets as well.
Responding to discussions about relocating the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Suresh said the government has already approved the construction of a new stadium at a location he had proposed.
“I had suggested building a stadium in Surya City and submitted a proposal for it. Bengaluru needs four stadiums in four directions to cater to its growing population and encourage youth participation in sports,” he said.
He noted that apart from Kanteerava Stadium, KSCA, and the Football Stadium, there are limited facilities in the city.
“When I was a Lok Sabha member, I had proposed allocating 100 acres in my constituency at Surya City. The land was later earmarked and the plan approved,” he added.
Suresh said he has discussed the project with Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation Chairman Shivalingegowda, and Anekal MLA Shivanna.
“The Cabinet has now approved the project, and a stadium will be developed on around 50–60 acres,” he said.
He further added that he has requested the Deputy Chief Minister to build another stadium at Shivarama Karanth Layout through the BDA, where 40 acres have been allocated. Plans are also being discussed to develop a well-equipped stadium in Bidadi.
Commending state government's recent bilingual policy move, Suresh said forcing children to learn three languages could affect their comprehension.
“It is a good decision to make two languages compulsory. Learning a third language should be left to the choice of students and parents,” he said.
Responding to criticism from BJP leaders, he said their tendency is to oppose every decision of the government.
“To please their central leadership, they take a pro-Hindi stance. Instead, they should advocate for the adoption of Kannada in all states,” he said.
When asked about the earlier three-language policy under Congress, he said, “the situation is different now. Today, the focus should be on quality learning. Kannada should remain the primary language, while students and parents can choose an additional language.”
