India recorded&nbsp;14,821 new COVID-19 positive cases&nbsp;and 445 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the toll of total cases to&nbsp;4,25,282 and&nbsp;13,699 total deaths.

The toll includes&nbsp;1,74,387 active cases and 2,37,196 cured/discharged/migrated patients.

Since then, Maharashtra has reported 3,721 new cases and 62 deaths. 1,962 patients have been discharged in the state. The total number of cases now stands at 1,35,796, including 67,70 recovered cases, 6,283 deaths and 61,793 active cases.

Delhi has recorded 2,909 new cases and 58 deaths in the last 24 hours. Total number of positive cases stand at 62,655 including 36,602 recovered/discharged/migrated cases, 2,233 deaths and 23,820 active cases.

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The total number of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> positive cases in Chandigarh is now 410, including 82 active cases, 6 deaths and 322 cured cases: Chandigarh Health Department <a href="https://t.co/clGxFHyEad">pic.twitter.com/clGxFHyEad</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1275034706661130242?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Karnataka reported&nbsp;249 new COVID 19 cases and 5 deaths today. Total number of cases stands at 9,399 including 5,730 discharges, 3,523 active cases and 142 deaths.

Tamil Nadu, which has seen a steep increase in cases on a daily basis, reported&nbsp;2,710 new cases and 37 deaths, taking the total number of cases to 62,087 and death toll to 794. Number of active cases stands at 27,178.

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132 new <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> positive cases have been reported in Jammu and Kashmir today; 10 from Jammu division and 122 from Kashmir division. Total number of positive cases stand at 6088 including 2472 active cases, 3531 recovered cases and 85 deaths: J&amp;K Govt <a href="https://t.co/jtFNfPjHtk">pic.twitter.com/jtFNfPjHtk</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1275073744168353799?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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57 new <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> positive cases and 11 patients treated/cured today. Total number of positive cases here rises to 2401, including 1511 recovered and 27 deaths: Uttrakhand State Control Room COVID-19 <a href="https://t.co/aCUX3YsvzG">pic.twitter.com/aCUX3YsvzG</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1275003222617251840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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West Bengal's toll now stands at 14,358 as the state recorded&nbsp;413 new positive cases and 14 deaths in last 24 hours. Total number&nbsp;includes 8,687 discharged cases, 5,102 active cases and 569 deaths.

Punjab recorded&nbsp;177 fresh cases and two deaths, taking total number of cases to 4,235 including 2,825 recoveries and death toll to 101.

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57 new cases of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> recorded in Manipur today, taking the total number of cases to 898 including 648 active cases: State Govt <a href="https://t.co/o42SMUMhWK">pic.twitter.com/o42SMUMhWK</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1275076412404187137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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443 new <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> positive cases, 5 deaths reported in the state, in last 24 hours, 83 discharged in Andhra Pradesh. The total number of positive cases in the state rises to 9372, including 111 deaths and 4435 discharged: State Command Control Room <a href="https://t.co/stAqQEkvuH">pic.twitter.com/stAqQEkvuH</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1275031803896557568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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With 1,540 active cases,&nbsp;Kerala reported 138 fresh cases, taking total number of cases to 3,310 and death toll to 21.

Bihar recorded 206 fresh cases in the past 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 7808 including 5767 recoveries and 52 deaths.

In last 24 hours, 563 new cases and 21 deaths have been reported in Gujarat. State tally now stands at 27,880 including 19,917 cured/discharged and 1,685 deaths.

The Ministry of Health has also said that the recovery rate in India is 55.77 per cent among COVID-19 patients, and that "India has one of the lowest cases per lakh population in spite of its high population density," as per a WHO Situation Report.

India recorded 14,821 new COVID-19 positive cases and 445 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the toll of total cases to 4,25,282 and 13,699 total deaths. The toll includes 1,74,387 active cases and 2,37,196 cured/discharged/migrated patients.

India recorded 14,821 new COVID-19 positive cases and 445 deaths in the last 24 hours, taking the toll of total cases to 4,25,282 and 13,699 total deaths. The toll includes 1,74,387 active cases and 2,37,196 cured/discharged/migrated patients. Since then, Maharashtra has reported 3,721 new cases and 62 deaths. 1,962 patients have been discharged in the state. The total number of cases now stands at 1,35,796, including 67,70 recovered cases, 6,283 deaths and 61,793 active cases. Delhi has recorded 2,909 new cases and 58 deaths in the last 24 hours. Total number of positive cases stand at 62,655 including 36,602 recovered/discharged/migrated cases, 2,233 deaths and 23,820 active cases. The total number of #COVID19 positive cases in Chandigarh is now 410, including 82 active cases, 6 deaths and 322 cured cases: Chandigarh Health Department pic.twitter.com/clGxFHyEad — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2020 × Karnataka reported 249 new COVID 19 cases and 5 deaths today. Total number of cases stands at 9,399 including 5,730 discharges, 3,523 active cases and 142 deaths. Tamil Nadu, which has seen a steep increase in cases on a daily basis, reported 2,710 new cases and 37 deaths, taking the total number of cases to 62,087 and death toll to 794. Number of active cases stands at 27,178. 132 new #COVID19 positive cases have been reported in Jammu and Kashmir today; 10 from Jammu division and 122 from Kashmir division. Total number of positive cases stand at 6088 including 2472 active cases, 3531 recovered cases and 85 deaths: J&K Govt pic.twitter.com/jtFNfPjHtk — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2020 × 57 new #COVID19 positive cases and 11 patients treated/cured today. Total number of positive cases here rises to 2401, including 1511 recovered and 27 deaths: Uttrakhand State Control Room COVID-19 pic.twitter.com/aCUX3YsvzG — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2020 × West Bengal's toll now stands at 14,358 as the state recorded 413 new positive cases and 14 deaths in last 24 hours. Total number includes 8,687 discharged cases, 5,102 active cases and 569 deaths. Punjab recorded 177 fresh cases and two deaths, taking total number of cases to 4,235 including 2,825 recoveries and death toll to 101. 57 new cases of #COVID19 recorded in Manipur today, taking the total number of cases to 898 including 648 active cases: State Govt pic.twitter.com/o42SMUMhWK — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2020 × 443 new #COVID19 positive cases, 5 deaths reported in the state, in last 24 hours, 83 discharged in Andhra Pradesh. The total number of positive cases in the state rises to 9372, including 111 deaths and 4435 discharged: State Command Control Room pic.twitter.com/stAqQEkvuH — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2020 × With 1,540 active cases, Kerala reported 138 fresh cases, taking total number of cases to 3,310 and death toll to 21. Bihar recorded 206 fresh cases in the past 24 hours, taking total number of cases to 7808 including 5767 recoveries and 52 deaths. In last 24 hours, 563 new cases and 21 deaths have been reported in Gujarat. State tally now stands at 27,880 including 19,917 cured/discharged and 1,685 deaths. The Ministry of Health has also said that the recovery rate in India is 55.77 per cent among COVID-19 patients, and that "India has one of the lowest cases per lakh population in spite of its high population density," as per a WHO Situation Report.

COVID 19: Tamil Nadu reports 2,710 cases amid lockdown, Maharashtra crosses 1.35 lakh mark

Donald Trump, few hours after making a statement, has backtracked on his words yet again. This time, it involves Venezuela's leader, Nicolas Maduro.

In an interview published on Sunday, Trump had said he would consider meeting Maduro. "I would maybe think about that. ... Maduro would like to meet. And I’m never opposed to meetings," Trump said. "But at this moment, I’ve turned them down."

However, later on Monday morning, the US President&nbsp;tweeted stating that the only reason he would meet Maduro would be to discuss Maduro's "powerful exit".

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Unlike the radical left, I will ALWAYS stand against socialism and with the people of Venezuela. My Admin has always stood on the side of FREEDOM and LIBERTY and against the oppressive Maduro regime! I would only meet with Maduro to discuss one thing: a peaceful exit from power!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1275072468709859328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Nicolas Maduro is&nbsp;a socialist who has presided over a deep economic crisis in the South American nation.

Recently, Trump's&nbsp;National Security Advisor, John Bolton, had revealed through his book that Donald Trump, who pledges to stand with the people of Venezuela now,&nbsp;once thought invading Venezuela would be "cool".

Donald Trump, few hours after making a statement, has backtracked on his words yet again. This time, it involves Venezuela's leader, Nicolas Maduro. In an interview published on Sunday, Trump had said he would consider meeting Maduro.

Donald Trump, few hours after making a statement, has backtracked on his words yet again. This time, it involves Venezuela's leader, Nicolas Maduro. In an interview published on Sunday, Trump had said he would consider meeting Maduro. "I would maybe think about that. ... Maduro would like to meet. And I’m never opposed to meetings," Trump said. "But at this moment, I’ve turned them down." However, later on Monday morning, the US President tweeted stating that the only reason he would meet Maduro would be to discuss Maduro's "powerful exit". Unlike the radical left, I will ALWAYS stand against socialism and with the people of Venezuela. My Admin has always stood on the side of FREEDOM and LIBERTY and against the oppressive Maduro regime! I would only meet with Maduro to discuss one thing: a peaceful exit from power! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 22, 2020 × Nicolas Maduro is a socialist who has presided over a deep economic crisis in the South American nation. Recently, Trump's National Security Advisor, John Bolton, had revealed through his book that Donald Trump, who pledges to stand with the people of Venezuela now, once thought invading Venezuela would be "cool".

Trump backtracks: will meet Maduro only to discuss his powerful exit

Twitter, a social media platform that allows people to share their thoughts with the world, has been more than once misused by people for their own personal benefits, knowingly or unknowingly.

Twitter believes that people usually tend to share articles without reading the whole article, and only judging&nbsp;by the headline.

This has, sometimes, led to spreading of fake news and misinformation. To make sure that more such instances don't happen, Twitter is now trying out a new feature that will reconfirm from people before they share any unread article.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/now-aladdin-breakfast-at-tiffanys-to-run-with-disclaimer-outdated-attitude-on-tv-307761">Also read|&nbsp;Now 'Aladdin,' 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' to run with disclaimer 'outdated attitude' on TV</a>

“Sharing an article can spark conversation, so you may want to read it before you tweet it," Twitter said in a statement. “To help promote informed discussion, we’re testing a new prompt on Android – when you retweet an article that you haven’t opened on Twitter, we may ask if you’d like to open it first.”

Following this, for some selected users, a prompt&nbsp;asking people if they really want to retweet a link that they have not tapped on will be shown before they retweet. The trial is right now only for Android users.

The action was taken after a&nbsp;2016 study from computer scientists at Columbia University and Microsoft found that 59 per cent of links posted on Twitter are never clicked.

Twitter has made it clear that such tweets will not be blocked or deleted, but will only be given a 'friendly' warning.

Twitter, a social media platform that allows people to share their thoughts with the world, has been more than once misused by people for their own personal benefits, knowingly or unknowingly.

Twitter, a social media platform that allows people to share their thoughts with the world, has been more than once misused by people for their own personal benefits, knowingly or unknowingly. Twitter believes that people usually tend to share articles without reading the whole article, and only judging by the headline. This has, sometimes, led to spreading of fake news and misinformation. To make sure that more such instances don't happen, Twitter is now trying out a new feature that will reconfirm from people before they share any unread article. Also read| Now 'Aladdin,' 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' to run with disclaimer 'outdated attitude' on TV “Sharing an article can spark conversation, so you may want to read it before you tweet it," Twitter said in a statement. “To help promote informed discussion, we’re testing a new prompt on Android – when you retweet an article that you haven’t opened on Twitter, we may ask if you’d like to open it first.” Following this, for some selected users, a prompt asking people if they really want to retweet a link that they have not tapped on will be shown before they retweet. The trial is right now only for Android users. The action was taken after a 2016 study from computer scientists at Columbia University and Microsoft found that 59 per cent of links posted on Twitter are never clicked. Twitter has made it clear that such tweets will not be blocked or deleted, but will only be given a 'friendly' warning.

Read before retweeting: Twitter aims to limit sharing unread articles

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-reports-record-daily-increase-in-global-coronavirus-cases-307555">WHO reports record daily increase in global coronavirus cases</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/05/18/140957-who-chief.jpg?itok=vvdZJnla" />

The biggest increase was from North and South America with over 116,000 new cases, according to a daily report.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-crosses-50000-deaths-due-to-novel-coronavirus-307540">Brazil crosses 50,000 deaths due to novel coronavirus</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/20/145696-untitled-design-87.jpg?itok=_p0M41eY" />

According to Brazil's Ministry of Health, the country reported 641 new deaths in 24 hours taking the death toll to 50,617 with 1,085,038 recorded infections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-against-removal-of-theodore-roosevelts-statue-from-outside-museum-of-natural-history-307648">Trump against removal of Theodore Roosevelt's statue from outside Museum of Natural History</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/22/145899-untitled-design.jpg?itok=2iXKgH8W" />

The statue shows Roosevelt on a horse, with a Native American man and an African man by his side. It stands prominently on a plinth outside the museum's main entrance, overlooking Central Park.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-second-wave-triggered-by-may-holiday-south-korea-307652">Coronavirus second wave triggered by May holiday: South Korea</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/22/145965-south-korea.jpg?itok=P3GfJLx0" />

On Sunday, South Korea had reported 17 COVID-19 cases which was a drop from over 20 cases which the country had been reporting for the past one month.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-changes-administrative-status-of-disputed-islands-china-dispatches-ships-307705">Japan changes administrative status of disputed islands, China dispatches ships</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/22/146009-untitled-design-8.jpg?itok=x6cYu4xY" />

The Ishigaki City Council will change the administrative status of the island group known as Senkakus in Japan, and as Diaoyus in China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-held-off-xinjiang-sanctions-due-to-us-china-trade-talks-307586">Trump held off Xinjiang sanctions due to US-China trade talks</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2019/09/24/111164-untitled-design-19.jpg?itok=X84le_yA" />

The United Nations estimates that more than a million Muslims have been detained in camps there. The State Department has accused China of subjecting Muslims to torture and abuse.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/justin-bieber-denies-sexual-assault-allegations-says-he-will-take-legal-action-307558">Justin Bieber denies sexual assault allegations, says he will take legal action</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/52953-Untitled%2520design%252897%2529.jpg?itok=AfRo3OG3" />

On Saturday, two women came forward and accused Bieber of sexually assaulting them. One recalled the incident took place in 2015 and the other stated that it happened in 2014.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-man-passes-out-after-drinking-10-beers-wakes-up-with-ruptured-bladder-307757">Chinese man passes out after drinking 10 beers, wakes up with ruptured bladder</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/22/146048-untitled-design.jpg?itok=qpF39Z7j" />

A man recently triggered diuresis, but did not acknowledge it, causing him to end up in the hospital with a ruptured bladder.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/total-disaster-after-germanys-wirecard-claims-21b-was-never-there-307680">'Total disaster' after Germany's Wirecard claims $2.1b was 'never there'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/22/145998-untitled-design-6.jpg?itok=nbVk67cn" />

Responding to this mishap, a German financial watchdog Bafin called the incident a 'total disaster'.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/campaign-manager-brad-parscale-feels-presidents-wrath-after-sparse-crowd-shows-up-for-trumps-tulsa-rally-307544">Campaign manager Brad Parscale feels president's wrath after sparse crowd shows up for Trump's Tulsa rally</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/22/145901-untitled-design-1.jpg?itok=TqvAn4vg" />

The Arena holds the capacity of 19,000, and according to Trump's campaign, 12,000 people attended the rally. But the actual figures were only 6,200, as per Tulsa fire department said.

WHO reports record daily increase in global coronavirus cases The biggest increase was from North and South America with over 116,000 new cases, according to a daily report.

WHO reports record daily increase in global coronavirus cases The biggest increase was from North and South America with over 116,000 new cases, according to a daily report. Brazil crosses 50,000 deaths due to novel coronavirus According to Brazil's Ministry of Health, the country reported 641 new deaths in 24 hours taking the death toll to 50,617 with 1,085,038 recorded infections. Trump against removal of Theodore Roosevelt's statue from outside Museum of Natural History The statue shows Roosevelt on a horse, with a Native American man and an African man by his side. It stands prominently on a plinth outside the museum's main entrance, overlooking Central Park. Coronavirus second wave triggered by May holiday: South Korea On Sunday, South Korea had reported 17 COVID-19 cases which was a drop from over 20 cases which the country had been reporting for the past one month. Japan changes administrative status of disputed islands, China dispatches ships The Ishigaki City Council will change the administrative status of the island group known as Senkakus in Japan, and as Diaoyus in China. Trump held off Xinjiang sanctions due to US-China trade talks The United Nations estimates that more than a million Muslims have been detained in camps there. The State Department has accused China of subjecting Muslims to torture and abuse. Justin Bieber denies sexual assault allegations, says he will take legal action On Saturday, two women came forward and accused Bieber of sexually assaulting them. One recalled the incident took place in 2015 and the other stated that it happened in 2014. Chinese man passes out after drinking 10 beers, wakes up with ruptured bladder A man recently triggered diuresis, but did not acknowledge it, causing him to end up in the hospital with a ruptured bladder. 'Total disaster' after Germany's Wirecard claims $2.1b was 'never there' Responding to this mishap, a German financial watchdog Bafin called the incident a 'total disaster'. Campaign manager Brad Parscale feels president's wrath after sparse crowd shows up for Trump's Tulsa rally The Arena holds the capacity of 19,000, and according to Trump's campaign, 12,000 people attended the rally. But the actual figures were only 6,200, as per Tulsa fire department said.

Top 10 world news today: Trump's failed rally, Wirecard fraud, S Korea's second wave of COVID and more

Environmentalists and activists have lashed out at the Tamil Nadu government’s proposal to denotify Vedanthangal, a popular bird sanctuary-cum-wetland that is located in the Chengalpattu district, nearly 100kms away from Chennai.

In a virtual press conference, the experts emphasised the need to protect water bodies and such diverse ecosystems, failing which irreparable damage could be caused. It must also be noted that&nbsp;a plea which seeks the court’s intervention to scrap the denotification and help in protecting the sanctuary is pending in the Madras High Court.&nbsp;

The virtual Press Conference was addressed by senior ornithologist Dr. Asad Rahmani, Prerna Singh Bindra, former member, National Board for Wildlife, Dr. Ritesh Kumar, Director, Wetlands International South Asia, Yuvan of Madras Naturalists Society and Nityanand jayaraman from Chennai Solidarity Group.&nbsp;

M. Yuvan, of Madras Naturalists Society, says that Vedanthangal has been protected for centuries by the local population and later it got legal protection as a 'sanctuary' as well, adding that it is a towering example of ecological conservation in India. The bird droppings enrich and nourish and nearby agricultural lands and the farmers protect the sanctuary and the birds. Vedanthangal translated to&nbsp;-- a lake protected from hunters.&nbsp;

Controversy erupted in recent weeks after there were reports about a Tamil Nadu Government application that was pending before the National Board for Wildlife. The application, if approved, would would reduce the boundary of the tank from the existing 5km to 3km. This reduction of 2km would mean that nearly 50 square kilometers of the tank is out of the protection of the sanctuary.&nbsp;

Conservationists and bird enthusiasts say that 40,000-70,000 birds visit the sanctuary every year and they return with more than double that number after breeding. The sanctuary and its vicinity are made up of more than 80 interconnected lakes. While the 5km area within the sanctuary is only a nesting place, many birds fly a distance of even 30kms from the sanctuary to find food. Thus, raising demands for not just the sanctuary, but also several kilometers outside its boundaries to be declared protected, eco-sensitive zones.&nbsp;

According to environmentalists, the proposed denotification would work in favor of a few hazardous industries that are operating in the area. This includes a pharma company that is currently said to be operating illegally within the sanctuary limits. While the State Pollution Control Board and Forest Department have given a clean chit to the factory, it is said that the local villagers allege that pollutants are being emitted from the factory, which are affecting surface and ground water in the region.&nbsp;

“On inspection we learnt that Sun Pharma and two other Red category industries are in the vicinity of the sanctuary. The locals are struggling, foam and black water has badly deteriorated the condition of the coconut and mango trees in the region. Forest department is not permitted construction of toilets, petty shops or homes for the locals, but they permit red category industries which harm the people and the birds,” Yuvan pointed out.&nbsp;

In recent days, the relevant authorities in Tamil Nadu had issued press releases stating that the reports on de-notification were false. The releases also added that the current proposal was in line with Government Of India Guidelines which required States to demarcate all protected areas into Core, Buffer and Eco-Sensitive Zone(ESZ).&nbsp;

Contrary to the State government’s claim, activists pointed out that there is no directive issued by the central government to demarcate core, buffer and ESZ within sanctuaries. Core and Buffer zones apply only to tiger reserves, and Eco-Sensitive Zones are meant to be demarcated only outside a sanctuary and not within its boundary.

“De-notification is a serious matter, which requires the clearance of the State Wildlife Board, the national board and then also the Supreme Court. In this case, the State Board’s consent was not taken in a meeting, it was done without discussion and debate. It is not the forest department’s job to worry about the industry, they need to protect wildlife. Chennai’s biggest worry is water shortage and it is suicidal to de-notify the Sanctuary” said Prerna Singh Bindra, former member, National Board for Wildlife said.&nbsp;

Environmentalist Nityanand Jayaraman said that even if the de-notification proposal was scrapped, the forest department must be held accountable for allowing a factory to operate in the sensitive zone. “Forest department is colluding with industries and speaking on behalf of commercial operators, there must be an enquiry against them and the factories at the highest levels," he added.&nbsp;

When WION asked about the possible reasons why the factory wanted to expand its facility, Jayaraman said, “Sun Pharma might not be procuring new tracts of land, but is expanding within their existing site, which is situated 3.72kms from the tank boundary. Rather than moving to another location and re-building, they would prefer to remain near Vedanthangal as it is just 1.5kms away from the arterial Grand Southern Trunk road”.&nbsp;

Environmentalists hope that the National Board for Wildlife takes a favorable view of the environment and ecological heritage that we have been gifted by our forefathers. Dr Ritesh Kumar, Director, South Asia, Wetlands International says that it is in the best interest of all stakeholders to level up their conservation efforts. “An aquatic system is connected to land and waterscape. When the inflowing water us disturbed, wetlands would degrade on their own. By regulating the activities, the ecological integrity in the sanctuary and its surrounding areas must be maintained.”

Environmentalists and activists have lashed out at the Tamil Nadu government’s proposal to denotify Vedanthangal, a popular bird sanctuary-cum-wetland that is located in the Chengalpattu district, nearly 100kms away from Chennai.

Environmentalists and activists have lashed out at the Tamil Nadu government’s proposal to denotify Vedanthangal, a popular bird sanctuary-cum-wetland that is located in the Chengalpattu district, nearly 100kms away from Chennai. In a virtual press conference, the experts emphasised the need to protect water bodies and such diverse ecosystems, failing which irreparable damage could be caused. It must also be noted that a plea which seeks the court’s intervention to scrap the denotification and help in protecting the sanctuary is pending in the Madras High Court. The virtual Press Conference was addressed by senior ornithologist Dr. Asad Rahmani, Prerna Singh Bindra, former member, National Board for Wildlife, Dr. Ritesh Kumar, Director, Wetlands International South Asia, Yuvan of Madras Naturalists Society and Nityanand jayaraman from Chennai Solidarity Group. M. Yuvan, of Madras Naturalists Society, says that Vedanthangal has been protected for centuries by the local population and later it got legal protection as a 'sanctuary' as well, adding that it is a towering example of ecological conservation in India. The bird droppings enrich and nourish and nearby agricultural lands and the farmers protect the sanctuary and the birds. Vedanthangal translated to -- a lake protected from hunters. Controversy erupted in recent weeks after there were reports about a Tamil Nadu Government application that was pending before the National Board for Wildlife. The application, if approved, would would reduce the boundary of the tank from the existing 5km to 3km. This reduction of 2km would mean that nearly 50 square kilometers of the tank is out of the protection of the sanctuary. Conservationists and bird enthusiasts say that 40,000-70,000 birds visit the sanctuary every year and they return with more than double that number after breeding. The sanctuary and its vicinity are made up of more than 80 interconnected lakes. While the 5km area within the sanctuary is only a nesting place, many birds fly a distance of even 30kms from the sanctuary to find food. Thus, raising demands for not just the sanctuary, but also several kilometers outside its boundaries to be declared protected, eco-sensitive zones. According to environmentalists, the proposed denotification would work in favor of a few hazardous industries that are operating in the area. This includes a pharma company that is currently said to be operating illegally within the sanctuary limits. While the State Pollution Control Board and Forest Department have given a clean chit to the factory, it is said that the local villagers allege that pollutants are being emitted from the factory, which are affecting surface and ground water in the region. “On inspection we learnt that Sun Pharma and two other Red category industries are in the vicinity of the sanctuary. The locals are struggling, foam and black water has badly deteriorated the condition of the coconut and mango trees in the region. Forest department is not permitted construction of toilets, petty shops or homes for the locals, but they permit red category industries which harm the people and the birds,” Yuvan pointed out. In recent days, the relevant authorities in Tamil Nadu had issued press releases stating that the reports on de-notification were false. The releases also added that the current proposal was in line with Government Of India Guidelines which required States to demarcate all protected areas into Core, Buffer and Eco-Sensitive Zone(ESZ). Contrary to the State government’s claim, activists pointed out that there is no directive issued by the central government to demarcate core, buffer and ESZ within sanctuaries. Core and Buffer zones apply only to tiger reserves, and Eco-Sensitive Zones are meant to be demarcated only outside a sanctuary and not within its boundary. “De-notification is a serious matter, which requires the clearance of the State Wildlife Board, the national board and then also the Supreme Court. In this case, the State Board’s consent was not taken in a meeting, it was done without discussion and debate. It is not the forest department’s job to worry about the industry, they need to protect wildlife. Chennai’s biggest worry is water shortage and it is suicidal to de-notify the Sanctuary” said Prerna Singh Bindra, former member, National Board for Wildlife said. Environmentalist Nityanand Jayaraman said that even if the de-notification proposal was scrapped, the forest department must be held accountable for allowing a factory to operate in the sensitive zone. “Forest department is colluding with industries and speaking on behalf of commercial operators, there must be an enquiry against them and the factories at the highest levels," he added. When WION asked about the possible reasons why the factory wanted to expand its facility, Jayaraman said, “Sun Pharma might not be procuring new tracts of land, but is expanding within their existing site, which is situated 3.72kms from the tank boundary. Rather than moving to another location and re-building, they would prefer to remain near Vedanthangal as it is just 1.5kms away from the arterial Grand Southern Trunk road”. Environmentalists hope that the National Board for Wildlife takes a favorable view of the environment and ecological heritage that we have been gifted by our forefathers. Dr Ritesh Kumar, Director, South Asia, Wetlands International says that it is in the best interest of all stakeholders to level up their conservation efforts. “An aquatic system is connected to land and waterscape. When the inflowing water us disturbed, wetlands would degrade on their own. By regulating the activities, the ecological integrity in the sanctuary and its surrounding areas must be maintained.”

Environmentalists urge Tamil Nadu Govt to save Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary and its ecological heritage

Five Indian High Commission officials have returned back to India on Monday. Out of the said five, two officials are those who were abducted by the Pakistan security agencies.

The officials returned to India through the&nbsp;Attari-Wagah border in Amritsar.

The officials have returned after few officials, posted in Pakistan, complained of being stalked and harassed by the Pakistan security agencies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-soldier-martyred-as-pakistani-troops-shell-forward-areas-along-loc-ib-in-jk-307643">Also read:&nbsp;Indian soldier martyred as Pakistani troops shell forward areas along LoC, IB in J&amp;K&nbsp;</a>

So much so, two officials were reportedly abducted by the Pakistani security agencies and were apparently&nbsp;tortured to make them&nbsp;confess under duress about their involvement in a hit-and-run case.&nbsp;

The abducted officials were&nbsp;handed back to the Indian High Commission on the same day at 9 pm. While the officials did not bear life-threatening injuries, it was reported that they did bear injuries marks on their neck, face and legs.

Following the mishandling and the torture against the Indian officials, the five officials were, on Monday, brought back to India.

Five Indian High Commission officials have returned back to India on Monday. Out of the said five, two officials are those who were abducted by the Pakistan security agencies.

Five Indian High Commission officials have returned back to India on Monday. Out of the said five, two officials are those who were abducted by the Pakistan security agencies. The officials returned to India through the Attari-Wagah border in Amritsar. The officials have returned after few officials, posted in Pakistan, complained of being stalked and harassed by the Pakistan security agencies. Also read: Indian soldier martyred as Pakistani troops shell forward areas along LoC, IB in J&K So much so, two officials were reportedly abducted by the Pakistani security agencies and were apparently tortured to make them confess under duress about their involvement in a hit-and-run case. The abducted officials were handed back to the Indian High Commission on the same day at 9 pm. While the officials did not bear life-threatening injuries, it was reported that they did bear injuries marks on their neck, face and legs. Following the mishandling and the torture against the Indian officials, the five officials were, on Monday, brought back to India.

Five Indian High Commission officials return to India

Rath yatra: Interesting facts to know about Jagannath rath yatra and temple

Indian Supreme Court has decided to allow the annual&nbsp;Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri district of Odisha to take place after the Centre moved the SC on Monday.

"The tradition of centuries may not be stopped," the Centre said, asking to allow the yatra without public participation.

Jagannath Rath Yatra is an annual procession in a chariot that takes place annually and&nbsp;is attended by lakhs of people from across the world.

The yatra, which is scheduled for June 23, was earlier cancelled by the Supreme Court.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lord-jagannath-wont-forgive-us-says-supreme-court-as-it-stays-this-years-rath-yatra-306803">'Lord Jagannath won't forgive us,' says Supreme Court as it stays this year's Rath Yatra</a>

However, on Monday morning the Centre moved the SC to take back its decision and allow the procession with few restrictions.

The procession will now take place on Tuesday, June 23, but without the attendance of the general public.

While the procession has been allowed, the SC has made it clear that the court still holds the right to cancel/stop the procession at any given point if the court feels that rules are not being followed and/or the procession is getting out of hands.

The Puri district will have a curfew starting from 9 pm today and will continue till Wednesday 2pm.

"People should not be allowed to participate in the Rath Yatra and the temple area should be barricaded around 3 kilometres. Odisha government has already conducted COVID-19 tests on 1,172 sevayats, which have come negative," said&nbsp;petitioner's lawyer Pranay Kumar Mohapatra.

The procession will be conducted by almost 1,600&nbsp;sevayats, who have already tested negative for coronavirus.

Indian Supreme Court has decided to allow the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri district of Odisha to take place after the Centre moved the SC on Monday. "The tradition of centuries may not be stopped," the Centre said, asking to allow the yatra without public participation.

Indian Supreme Court has decided to allow the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri district of Odisha to take place after the Centre moved the SC on Monday. "The tradition of centuries may not be stopped," the Centre said, asking to allow the yatra without public participation. Jagannath Rath Yatra is an annual procession in a chariot that takes place annually and is attended by lakhs of people from across the world. The yatra, which is scheduled for June 23, was earlier cancelled by the Supreme Court. Also read | 'Lord Jagannath won't forgive us,' says Supreme Court as it stays this year's Rath Yatra However, on Monday morning the Centre moved the SC to take back its decision and allow the procession with few restrictions. The procession will now take place on Tuesday, June 23, but without the attendance of the general public. While the procession has been allowed, the SC has made it clear that the court still holds the right to cancel/stop the procession at any given point if the court feels that rules are not being followed and/or the procession is getting out of hands. The Puri district will have a curfew starting from 9 pm today and will continue till Wednesday 2pm. "People should not be allowed to participate in the Rath Yatra and the temple area should be barricaded around 3 kilometres. Odisha government has already conducted COVID-19 tests on 1,172 sevayats, which have come negative," said petitioner's lawyer Pranay Kumar Mohapatra. The procession will be conducted by almost 1,600 sevayats, who have already tested negative for coronavirus.

Rath yatra: Supreme Court allows Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri

The BJP's Jammu and Kashmir unit on Monday demanded a judicial probe into the death of two relatives of a COVID-19 patient who passed away here last week, stating that the party was seriously concerned about repeated negligence by government officials.

The Jammu district administration had already ordered a magisterial probe into the death of Vimal Zadoo and his cousin brother Vipan Zadoo on Thursday during the cremation of their uncle who died a day earlier after testing positive.

The demand for a judicial probe was made by the BJP in a memorandum submitted to Lt Governor G C Murmu by a five-member delegation of senior party leaders, including General Secretary Vibodh Gupta, former minister Sat Sharma and party vice president Narinder Singh, a BJP spokesperson said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-3-terrorists-killed-in-encounter-with-security-forces-in-srinagar-307438">Also read|&nbsp;ammu &amp; Kashmir: 3 terrorists killed in encounter with security forces in Srinagar</a>

The memorandum, signed by Gupta, alleged that a section of the administration is demonstrating its "insensitivity" and "disrespect" for not only common people but also the dead and their families as was witnessed in the case of the death of two family members accompanying the body of a COVID-19 patient for his last rites.

"People are justifiably angry and expect accountability and transparency in handling of the situation. The district administration, Jammu in an effort to hush up the case and protect the guilty announced a magisterial probe to be conducted by officials who are actually responsible for the mishap," the memorandum read, advocating judicial inquiry into the incident to ensure justice to the aggrieved family.

The BJP said the people responsible for the negligence should be immediately suspended and guilty punished both in Jammu and also in Kathua district, where a 47-year-old man died at a quarantine centre on Sunday.

The party demanded an ex-gratia relief of Rs 15 Lakh along with a government job to the kin of the deceased, besides accommodation to the widow of one of the deceased of Jammu.

The memorandum also suggested the administration to notify cremation grounds to be used for the last rites of a COVID-19 patient for avoiding last moment hustle.

"This pandemic may continue for a longer period and we should prepare ourselves for a long and cautious fight against it," it said, adding that there was an urgent need to review the preparation at the highest level.

The BJP's Jammu and Kashmir unit on Monday demanded a judicial probe into the death of two relatives of a COVID-19 patient who passed away here last week, stating that the party was seriously concerned about repeated negligence by government officials.

The BJP's Jammu and Kashmir unit on Monday demanded a judicial probe into the death of two relatives of a COVID-19 patient who passed away here last week, stating that the party was seriously concerned about repeated negligence by government officials. The Jammu district administration had already ordered a magisterial probe into the death of Vimal Zadoo and his cousin brother Vipan Zadoo on Thursday during the cremation of their uncle who died a day earlier after testing positive. The demand for a judicial probe was made by the BJP in a memorandum submitted to Lt Governor G C Murmu by a five-member delegation of senior party leaders, including General Secretary Vibodh Gupta, former minister Sat Sharma and party vice president Narinder Singh, a BJP spokesperson said. Also read| ammu & Kashmir: 3 terrorists killed in encounter with security forces in Srinagar The memorandum, signed by Gupta, alleged that a section of the administration is demonstrating its "insensitivity" and "disrespect" for not only common people but also the dead and their families as was witnessed in the case of the death of two family members accompanying the body of a COVID-19 patient for his last rites. "People are justifiably angry and expect accountability and transparency in handling of the situation. The district administration, Jammu in an effort to hush up the case and protect the guilty announced a magisterial probe to be conducted by officials who are actually responsible for the mishap," the memorandum read, advocating judicial inquiry into the incident to ensure justice to the aggrieved family. The BJP said the people responsible for the negligence should be immediately suspended and guilty punished both in Jammu and also in Kathua district, where a 47-year-old man died at a quarantine centre on Sunday. The party demanded an ex-gratia relief of Rs 15 Lakh along with a government job to the kin of the deceased, besides accommodation to the widow of one of the deceased of Jammu. The memorandum also suggested the administration to notify cremation grounds to be used for the last rites of a COVID-19 patient for avoiding last moment hustle. "This pandemic may continue for a longer period and we should prepare ourselves for a long and cautious fight against it," it said, adding that there was an urgent need to review the preparation at the highest level.

BJP demands judicial probe into death of two kin of COVID-19 victim in Jammu

As the world is turning against China, and the US President Donald Trump is leaving no stone unturned in blaming China for spreading the novel coronavirus in the world, China has decided to "enhance peace and stability" in the world.

One of the most powerful countries of the world has decided to&nbsp;join a global pact to regulate arms sales that has been rejected by the United States.

The Communist Party's top legislative body has voted to join UN Arms Trade Treaty. The treaty aims to regulate the flow of weapons in conflict zones.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-held-off-xinjiang-sanctions-due-to-us-china-trade-talks-307586">Also read:&nbsp;Trump held off Xinjiang sanctions due to US-China trade talks</a>

The decision has been taken after Donald Trump, last year, announced that he plans to pull US out of the agreement.

China, however, believes that this decision is "another important measure for China to support multilateralism," said&nbsp;Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian.

China has claimed that the country only exports such products to sovereign states.&nbsp;

As China hopes to make "continuous effort to maintain and enhance peace and stability in the world and region", it has "always strictly controlled the export of military products".

The treaty requires member countries to keep records of international transfers of weapons and to prohibit cross-border shipments that could be used in human rights violations or attacks on civilians.

However, the US government has not been an active member of the treaty since the end of the Obama administration.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the world is turning against China, and the US President Donald Trump is leaving no stone unturned in blaming China for spreading the novel coronavirus in the world, China has decided to "enhance peace and stability" in the world.

As the world is turning against China, and the US President Donald Trump is leaving no stone unturned in blaming China for spreading the novel coronavirus in the world, China has decided to "enhance peace and stability" in the world. One of the most powerful countries of the world has decided to join a global pact to regulate arms sales that has been rejected by the United States. The Communist Party's top legislative body has voted to join UN Arms Trade Treaty. The treaty aims to regulate the flow of weapons in conflict zones. Also read: Trump held off Xinjiang sanctions due to US-China trade talks The decision has been taken after Donald Trump, last year, announced that he plans to pull US out of the agreement. China, however, believes that this decision is "another important measure for China to support multilateralism," said Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian. China has claimed that the country only exports such products to sovereign states. As China hopes to make "continuous effort to maintain and enhance peace and stability in the world and region", it has "always strictly controlled the export of military products". The treaty requires member countries to keep records of international transfers of weapons and to prohibit cross-border shipments that could be used in human rights violations or attacks on civilians. However, the US government has not been an active member of the treaty since the end of the Obama administration. (With inputs from agencies)

China joins pact to regulate weapons after Trump decides to quit

As the cases are rising and the economies are reopening, the UK is doing all it can to be prepared for any possible second wave of cases.

In order to stay fully prepared, Southampton University is now ready to test a new&nbsp;"no swab" saliva coronavirus test. This test will allow people to collect their own sample at home, instead of relying at the government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-abandons-contact-tracing-app-switches-to-apple-and-google-model-306977">Also read|&nbsp;UK abandons contact tracing app; switches to Apple and Google model</a>

The participants of the trial&nbsp;will simply have the test done by spitting into a pot, which will be much easier and less painful than the usual swab testing.

While the tests are designed to find out if the person is infected by coronavirus, it&nbsp;will&nbsp; also be able to&nbsp;spot asymptomatic people too, and can avoid passing on of the infection.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-anti-viral-drug-favipiravir-gets-dcgi-nod-for-restricted-emergency-use-307166">Also read|&nbsp;COVID 19: Anti-viral drug Favipiravir gets DCGI nod for 'restricted emergency use'</a>

The test will be on trial for four weeks. Around 14,000 heathcare workers and their family members (or the people they live with) will be taking part in the trial.

The testing kits will be sent to their houses. The participants will provide weekly saliva samples, which will be collected by trial team staff for lab testing.

"Saliva testing could potentially make it easier for people to take coronavirus tests at home, without having to use swabs. This trial will also help us learn if routine, at-home testing could pick up cases of the virus earlier," said Matt Hancock,&nbsp;Health Secretary, in an interview.

This test is being assumed to be easier and faster than the usual&nbsp;polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. If this test is successful, people will be able to test, and receive the results while staying at home and within an hour. This will help in containing the spread of the virus.

As the cases are rising and the economies are reopening, the UK is doing all it can to be prepared for any possible second wave of cases. In order to stay fully prepared, Southampton University is now ready to test a new "no swab" saliva coronavirus test.

As the cases are rising and the economies are reopening, the UK is doing all it can to be prepared for any possible second wave of cases. In order to stay fully prepared, Southampton University is now ready to test a new "no swab" saliva coronavirus test. This test will allow people to collect their own sample at home, instead of relying at the government. Also read| UK abandons contact tracing app; switches to Apple and Google model The participants of the trial will simply have the test done by spitting into a pot, which will be much easier and less painful than the usual swab testing. While the tests are designed to find out if the person is infected by coronavirus, it will also be able to spot asymptomatic people too, and can avoid passing on of the infection. Also read| COVID 19: Anti-viral drug Favipiravir gets DCGI nod for 'restricted emergency use' The test will be on trial for four weeks. Around 14,000 heathcare workers and their family members (or the people they live with) will be taking part in the trial. The testing kits will be sent to their houses. The participants will provide weekly saliva samples, which will be collected by trial team staff for lab testing. "Saliva testing could potentially make it easier for people to take coronavirus tests at home, without having to use swabs. This trial will also help us learn if routine, at-home testing could pick up cases of the virus earlier," said Matt Hancock, Health Secretary, in an interview. This test is being assumed to be easier and faster than the usual polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. If this test is successful, people will be able to test, and receive the results while staying at home and within an hour. This will help in containing the spread of the virus.

COVID 19: UK to begin trials of 'no-swab' self-test kits

The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is set to conduct a sero-surveillance study in all 11 districts of Delhi focusing on as many as 20,000 households on a random basis including individuals below 18 years of age. The survey is expected to start by this week in the national capital.

A central government panel which was constituted on the directions of the Union Home Minister Amit Shah has recommended complete sero-surveillance in the city to detect the trend of COVID-19 infection in the population of Delhi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/recovery-rate-is-5577-among-covid-19-patients-in-india-ministry-of-health-307653">Also read|&nbsp;Recovery rate is 55.77% among COVID-19 patients in India: Ministry of health</a>

"It is a population proportion based sero-survey which we are going to start by Thursday or Friday. The result of the sero-survey will let us know how much of the Delhi population has been exposed to the virus and whether they have developed immunity against COVID19," a senior government official informed ANI.

Recently, a Delhi government panel had projected the surge of at least one lakh cases by June end. It also projected five lakh cases in the city by the end of July.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-reports-a-highest-single-day-spike-of-2532-covid-19-cases-tally-nears-60000-mark-307539">Also read|&nbsp;Tamil Nadu reports a highest single-day spike of 2,532 covid-19 cases, tally nears 60,000-mark</a>

"ICMR`s sero-survey already reported 9-10 per cent of the prevalence of coronavirus in the South-East district where COVID-19 cases were in large numbers. The survey in 11 districts of Delhi includes -- South-East, Central, North, South, North-East, West, Shahdara, East, New Delhi, North-West, South-West -- have containment zones and positive COVID-19 cases."

The survey will involve the collection of blood samples from selected individuals. Authorities are planning to use CLIA kits to evaluate the sample to detect the presence of antibodies.

"Our strategy is to conduct this sero-survey is almost complete. We are finalising it," said the official.

NCDC will conduct the survey in collaboration with the state health department and under the close monitoring of the Central government.

Till date, Delhi has reported about 59,746 COVID19 cases and the virus has claimed atleast 2,175 lives.According to the union health ministry, the death toll has touched 13,699 while the number of positive cases rose to 4,25,282 on Monday.

The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is set to conduct a sero-surveillance study in all 11 districts of Delhi focusing on as many as 20,000 households on a random basis including individuals below 18 years of age.

The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is set to conduct a sero-surveillance study in all 11 districts of Delhi focusing on as many as 20,000 households on a random basis including individuals below 18 years of age. The survey is expected to start by this week in the national capital. A central government panel which was constituted on the directions of the Union Home Minister Amit Shah has recommended complete sero-surveillance in the city to detect the trend of COVID-19 infection in the population of Delhi. Also read| Recovery rate is 55.77% among COVID-19 patients in India: Ministry of health "It is a population proportion based sero-survey which we are going to start by Thursday or Friday. The result of the sero-survey will let us know how much of the Delhi population has been exposed to the virus and whether they have developed immunity against COVID19," a senior government official informed ANI. Recently, a Delhi government panel had projected the surge of at least one lakh cases by June end. It also projected five lakh cases in the city by the end of July. Also read| Tamil Nadu reports a highest single-day spike of 2,532 covid-19 cases, tally nears 60,000-mark "ICMR`s sero-survey already reported 9-10 per cent of the prevalence of coronavirus in the South-East district where COVID-19 cases were in large numbers. The survey in 11 districts of Delhi includes -- South-East, Central, North, South, North-East, West, Shahdara, East, New Delhi, North-West, South-West -- have containment zones and positive COVID-19 cases." The survey will involve the collection of blood samples from selected individuals. Authorities are planning to use CLIA kits to evaluate the sample to detect the presence of antibodies. "Our strategy is to conduct this sero-survey is almost complete. We are finalising it," said the official. NCDC will conduct the survey in collaboration with the state health department and under the close monitoring of the Central government. Till date, Delhi has reported about 59,746 COVID19 cases and the virus has claimed atleast 2,175 lives.According to the union health ministry, the death toll has touched 13,699 while the number of positive cases rose to 4,25,282 on Monday.

NCDC to conduct sero-surveillance study focusing on 20,000 households in Delhi

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