Two back-to-back cyclones have battered Indian coasts in recent days. Cyclone Tauktae and Cyclone Yaas caused destruction on India's western and eastern coasts respectively. As those affected take steps to bring their lives back on track, scientists have said the rising temperature of the Indian Ocean is making the cyclones stronger with more destructive power.

Even increase in the cyclonic activity has given rise to more number of cyclones than in the past.

As per the India Meteorological Department's data, there were just 93 cyclones in the Arabian Sea between 1891 and 2000. Warmer Bay of Bengal&nbsp;witnessed 350 cyclones in the same period.

However, 28 cyclones were formed in the Arabian Sea just between 2001 and 2021. The temperature of water was found to have been higher in the period.

The rise in global temperatures due to human activities is contributing to increasing ocean temperatures.&nbsp;

This does not bode well for a country like India where 14 per cent of its 1.3 billion population lives in the coastal areas. This number is expected to rise threefold by 2060.

Two back-to-back cyclones have battered Indian coasts in recent days. Cyclone Tauktae and Cyclone Yaas caused destruction on India's western and eastern coasts respectively.

Two back-to-back cyclones have battered Indian coasts in recent days. Cyclone Tauktae and Cyclone Yaas caused destruction on India's western and eastern coasts respectively. As those affected take steps to bring their lives back on track, scientists have said the rising temperature of the Indian Ocean is making the cyclones stronger with more destructive power. Even increase in the cyclonic activity has given rise to more number of cyclones than in the past. As per the India Meteorological Department's data, there were just 93 cyclones in the Arabian Sea between 1891 and 2000. Warmer Bay of Bengal witnessed 350 cyclones in the same period. However, 28 cyclones were formed in the Arabian Sea just between 2001 and 2021. The temperature of water was found to have been higher in the period. The rise in global temperatures due to human activities is contributing to increasing ocean temperatures. This does not bode well for a country like India where 14 per cent of its 1.3 billion population lives in the coastal areas. This number is expected to rise threefold by 2060.

Rising temperatures in Indian Ocean increasing intensity of cyclones, say scientists

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said on Thursday that Israel's recent deadly airstrikes in Gaza may constitute 'war crimes'.

Bachelet added that she hasn't seen any evidence that showed that the attacked buildings were used for military purposes. She was addressing a special session of the UN.

Bachelet voiced deep concern about the surge in deadly violence between Israelis and Palestinians.

"Although Israel undertook a number of precautions, such as advance warning of attacks in some cases, air strikes in such densely populated areas resulted in a high level of civilian fatalities and injuries, as well as the widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure," the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said.

"If found to be indiscriminate and disproportionate in their impact on civilians and civilian objects, such attacks may constitute war crimes."

Before a truce took hold last Friday, Israeli air strikes and artillery fire on Gaza killed 253 Palestinians, including 66 children, and wounded more than 1,900 people in 11 days of conflict, the health ministry in Gaza says.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ireland-first-european-country-to-declare-israeli-settlements-annexation-387722">Ireland first European country to declare Israeli settlements 'annexation'</a>

Rocket and other fire from Gaza claimed 12 lives in Israel, including one child and an Arab-Israeli teenager, medics say. Some 357 people in Israel were wounded.

Bachelet called on "Hamas and all armed groups to refrain from use of indiscriminate rockets and mortars, for which there must be accountability".&nbsp;

"There is no doubt that Israel has the right to defend its citizens and residents," she said. "However, Palestinians have rights too. The same rights."&nbsp;

The UN rights chief highlighted the scale of the destruction in Gaza.

"Although reportedly targeting members of armed groups and their military infrastructure, Israeli attacks resulted in extensive civilian deaths and injuries, as well as large-scale destruction and damage to civilian objects," she said.

Bachelet pointed out that governmental buildings, residential homes, international humanitarian organisations, medical facilities and media offices had been hit.&nbsp;

"Despite Israel's claims that many of these buildings were hosting armed groups or being used for military purposes, we have not seen evidence in this regard," she said.

United Nations' 47-member human rights council was debating a draft resolution to launch broad international investigation into violations surrounding the latest Gaza violence, but also of "systematic" abuses in the Palestinian territories and inside Israel.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said on Thursday that Israel's recent deadly airstrikes in Gaza may constitute 'war crimes'. Bachelet added that she hasn't seen any evidence that showed that the attacked buildings were used for military purposes.

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said on Thursday that Israel's recent deadly airstrikes in Gaza may constitute 'war crimes'. Bachelet added that she hasn't seen any evidence that showed that the attacked buildings were used for military purposes. She was addressing a special session of the UN. Bachelet voiced deep concern about the surge in deadly violence between Israelis and Palestinians. "Although Israel undertook a number of precautions, such as advance warning of attacks in some cases, air strikes in such densely populated areas resulted in a high level of civilian fatalities and injuries, as well as the widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure," the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said. "If found to be indiscriminate and disproportionate in their impact on civilians and civilian objects, such attacks may constitute war crimes." Before a truce took hold last Friday, Israeli air strikes and artillery fire on Gaza killed 253 Palestinians, including 66 children, and wounded more than 1,900 people in 11 days of conflict, the health ministry in Gaza says. Also Read | Ireland first European country to declare Israeli settlements 'annexation' Rocket and other fire from Gaza claimed 12 lives in Israel, including one child and an Arab-Israeli teenager, medics say. Some 357 people in Israel were wounded. Bachelet called on "Hamas and all armed groups to refrain from use of indiscriminate rockets and mortars, for which there must be accountability". "There is no doubt that Israel has the right to defend its citizens and residents," she said. "However, Palestinians have rights too. The same rights." The UN rights chief highlighted the scale of the destruction in Gaza. "Although reportedly targeting members of armed groups and their military infrastructure, Israeli attacks resulted in extensive civilian deaths and injuries, as well as large-scale destruction and damage to civilian objects," she said. Bachelet pointed out that governmental buildings, residential homes, international humanitarian organisations, medical facilities and media offices had been hit. "Despite Israel's claims that many of these buildings were hosting armed groups or being used for military purposes, we have not seen evidence in this regard," she said. United Nations' 47-member human rights council was debating a draft resolution to launch broad international investigation into violations surrounding the latest Gaza violence, but also of "systematic" abuses in the Palestinian territories and inside Israel. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli attacks on Gaza may constitute war crimes: UN Human Rights chief

US Capitol stood unprotected by National Guard for the first time in about five months on Monday. Last 2149 out of 26,000 troops departed on Monday their mission to protect Congress formally ended.

The troops were mobilized after hundreds of supporters of then-president Donald Trump stormed the Capitol, halting the joint session to confirm Trump's rival Joe Biden as winner of the presidential election.

Some broke into lawmakers' offices, and called for the killing of lawmakers and vice president Mike Pence, who was presiding over the session.

Amid fears of more threats around and following the January 20 inauguration of Biden, thousands of Guard troops were mobilized, patrolling the Capitol area day and night while a large fence encircled the grounds, making it appear a building under siege.

The troops remained in Washington for months after the inauguration as what many dubbed an insurrection was investigated.

Trump, who was impeached for encouraging the assault, later claimed the attackers were "zero threat" to lawmakers and downplayed the episode.

The FBI has arrested and charged about 440 people involved in January 6 attacks. Dozens of them are associated with armed militia groups.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Capitol stood unprotected by National Guard for the first time in about five months on Monday. Last 2149 out of 26,000 troops departed on Monday their mission to protect Congress formally ended.

US Capitol stood unprotected by National Guard for the first time in about five months on Monday. Last 2149 out of 26,000 troops departed on Monday their mission to protect Congress formally ended. The troops were mobilized after hundreds of supporters of then-president Donald Trump stormed the Capitol, halting the joint session to confirm Trump's rival Joe Biden as winner of the presidential election. Some broke into lawmakers' offices, and called for the killing of lawmakers and vice president Mike Pence, who was presiding over the session. Amid fears of more threats around and following the January 20 inauguration of Biden, thousands of Guard troops were mobilized, patrolling the Capitol area day and night while a large fence encircled the grounds, making it appear a building under siege. The troops remained in Washington for months after the inauguration as what many dubbed an insurrection was investigated. Trump, who was impeached for encouraging the assault, later claimed the attackers were "zero threat" to lawmakers and downplayed the episode. The FBI has arrested and charged about 440 people involved in January 6 attacks. Dozens of them are associated with armed militia groups. (With inputs from agencies)

National Guard troops exit US Capitol months after January 6 attack

Belarus and its President Alexander Lukashenko continued facing global flak over the Ryanair plane incident. Late on Sunday (Indian time), Belarus sent a fighter jet to divert a Lithuania-bound plane and forced it to land in Belarus. The authorities then swooped in and arrested Roman Protasevich (26) an activist who until recently had run the Nexta telegram channel that galvanised huge protests against Alexander Lukashenko

In very early hours of Monday (Indian time), Belarus and Lukashenko were on the receiving end with global leaders and diplomats like EU's Ursula von der Leyen, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and others expressing outrage. Belarus' act was even denounced as an act of "state terrorism".

On Monday, the pressure on Belarus increased. UK ordered its aircraft not to use Belarusian space. The country even suspended Belavia's operations in Britain. Belavia is Belarus' flag carrier.

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UK was followed by Ukraine as President Volodymyr Zelensky ordered the government to stop flights in and out of Belarus.

"The president instructed the government to work out a decision on the termination of direct flights between Ukraine and the Republic of Belarus," the presidency said in a statement.

Ukrainian planes would not fly through Belarus airspace, the statement added.

Prime Minister Denys Shmygal announced an extraordinary government meeting to be held on Tuesday to discuss the order.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-orders-aircraft-to-avoid-belarus-airspace-suspends-belavia-387131">UK orders aircraft to avoid Belarus airspace, suspends Belavia</a>

Berlin, London and Brussels summoned the Belarusian ambassadors, as exiled opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya called for an independent probe, new sanctions and for Minsk to be excluded from international aviation bodies.

It is expected that the European Union would decide to impose tougher sanctions on Belarus.

Russia backs Belarus

Russia came forward on Monday to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-finds-belarus-approach-to-plane-incident-reasonable-387125">back the cornered Belarus</a>. It said that the approach taken by Belarus to handle the plane incident was "reasonable"&nbsp;

"A representative of the Belarusian foreign ministry... stressed the readiness of the Belarusian authorities to act on the issue in a transparent manner and to follow all international rules," said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov during a press conference following a meeting with his Greek counterpart.

"I think this is an absolutely reasonable approach."

He called on the global community to "soberly assess the situation".

The Lufthansa incident

Just one day after the Ryanair incident, a Lufthansa passenger flight was suspended in Minsk after a security alert. After a fresh security check. The Frankfurt-bound plane took off around 1330 GMT

(With inputs from agencies)

Belarus and its President Alexander Lukashenko continued facing global flak over the Ryanair plane incident. Late on Sunday (Indian time), Belarus sent a fighter jet to divert a Lithuania-bound plane and forced it to land in Belarus.

Belarus and its President Alexander Lukashenko continued facing global flak over the Ryanair plane incident. Late on Sunday (Indian time), Belarus sent a fighter jet to divert a Lithuania-bound plane and forced it to land in Belarus. The authorities then swooped in and arrested Roman Protasevich (26) an activist who until recently had run the Nexta telegram channel that galvanised huge protests against Alexander Lukashenko In very early hours of Monday (Indian time), Belarus and Lukashenko were on the receiving end with global leaders and diplomats like EU's Ursula von der Leyen, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and others expressing outrage. Belarus' act was even denounced as an act of "state terrorism". On Monday, the pressure on Belarus increased. UK ordered its aircraft not to use Belarusian space. The country even suspended Belavia's operations in Britain. Belavia is Belarus' flag carrier. × UK was followed by Ukraine as President Volodymyr Zelensky ordered the government to stop flights in and out of Belarus. "The president instructed the government to work out a decision on the termination of direct flights between Ukraine and the Republic of Belarus," the presidency said in a statement. Ukrainian planes would not fly through Belarus airspace, the statement added. Prime Minister Denys Shmygal announced an extraordinary government meeting to be held on Tuesday to discuss the order. Also Read | UK orders aircraft to avoid Belarus airspace, suspends Belavia Berlin, London and Brussels summoned the Belarusian ambassadors, as exiled opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya called for an independent probe, new sanctions and for Minsk to be excluded from international aviation bodies. It is expected that the European Union would decide to impose tougher sanctions on Belarus. Russia backs Belarus Russia came forward on Monday to back the cornered Belarus. It said that the approach taken by Belarus to handle the plane incident was "reasonable" "A representative of the Belarusian foreign ministry... stressed the readiness of the Belarusian authorities to act on the issue in a transparent manner and to follow all international rules," said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov during a press conference following a meeting with his Greek counterpart. "I think this is an absolutely reasonable approach." He called on the global community to "soberly assess the situation". The Lufthansa incident Just one day after the Ryanair incident, a Lufthansa passenger flight was suspended in Minsk after a security alert. After a fresh security check. The Frankfurt-bound plane took off around 1330 GMT (With inputs from agencies)

Pressure mounts on Belarus over plane incident, Russia backs cornered Lukashenko

A key meeting between Bharat Biotech's Executive Director Dr V Krishna Mohan and other officials of the Hyderabad-based pharma major and senior officials of the Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Health, Department of Biotechnology took place on Monday as India pushed for early approval of Covaxin&nbsp;by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Other officials of the Hyderabad-based pharma major were present for the meet as well.

Bharat Biotech has sent an application to the WHO for Emergency Use Listing (EUL) of Covaxin on 19th April and a pre-submission meeting will take place in June.

Officials aware of the development said that the company has "submitted 90% of the documentation required for EUL to WHO", with the remaining to be submitted next month.

They further explained that the company is "confident about obtaining WHO EUL subsequently, given its experience of getting its other vaccines prequalified by WHO."

Bharat Biotech's Covaxin will be the second made-in-India vaccine after Covishield to apply to WHO for approval.

Covishield has already got approval in February. So far, seven vaccines globally have been given approval by WHO for EUL, these are Covid vaccines from Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Janssen, Moderna and Sinopharm.

Covaxin is the first Indian Covid vaccine and is based on inactivated virus vaccines produced in cell culture or Vero cell platform. So far it has received regulatory approval from 11 countries and 11 companies in seven countries have shown interest in the technology transfer and production of Covaxin.

The company is in the final stages of submission of documents required for regulatory approvals for its vaccines in Brazil and Hungary.

In the US, Bharat Biotech is in the "final stages of negotiations" with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for conducting small-scale Phase-III clinical trials locally.

Officials said, "The company is confident about the robustness of their dossier, as they have data for a much longer duration – for antibody persistence after six&nbsp;months as well as eight months."

The regulatory approvals have both retrospective and prospective effect, and it stands out being few companies that have published papers on all four Covid virus variants. &nbsp;

The company plans to produce 1 billion vaccines via its three facilities in three Indian states.

Hyderabad facility in Telangana will produce 200-250 million vaccines, Bengaluru facility in Karnataka will produce around 500 mn doses and facility in Ankleshwar, Gujarat will produce about 200 mn vaccines.

A key meeting between Bharat Biotech's Executive Director Dr V Krishna Mohan and other officials of the Hyderabad-based pharma major and senior officials of the Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Health, Department of Biotechnology took place on Monday as India pushed for early approval of Covaxin by the World Health Organization (WHO).

A key meeting between Bharat Biotech's Executive Director Dr V Krishna Mohan and other officials of the Hyderabad-based pharma major and senior officials of the Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Health, Department of Biotechnology took place on Monday as India pushed for early approval of Covaxin by the World Health Organization (WHO). Other officials of the Hyderabad-based pharma major were present for the meet as well. Bharat Biotech has sent an application to the WHO for Emergency Use Listing (EUL) of Covaxin on 19th April and a pre-submission meeting will take place in June. Officials aware of the development said that the company has "submitted 90% of the documentation required for EUL to WHO", with the remaining to be submitted next month. They further explained that the company is "confident about obtaining WHO EUL subsequently, given its experience of getting its other vaccines prequalified by WHO." Bharat Biotech's Covaxin will be the second made-in-India vaccine after Covishield to apply to WHO for approval. Covishield has already got approval in February. So far, seven vaccines globally have been given approval by WHO for EUL, these are Covid vaccines from Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Janssen, Moderna and Sinopharm. Covaxin is the first Indian Covid vaccine and is based on inactivated virus vaccines produced in cell culture or Vero cell platform. So far it has received regulatory approval from 11 countries and 11 companies in seven countries have shown interest in the technology transfer and production of Covaxin. The company is in the final stages of submission of documents required for regulatory approvals for its vaccines in Brazil and Hungary. In the US, Bharat Biotech is in the "final stages of negotiations" with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for conducting small-scale Phase-III clinical trials locally. Officials said, "The company is confident about the robustness of their dossier, as they have data for a much longer duration – for antibody persistence after six months as well as eight months." The regulatory approvals have both retrospective and prospective effect, and it stands out being few companies that have published papers on all four Covid virus variants. The company plans to produce 1 billion vaccines via its three facilities in three Indian states. Hyderabad facility in Telangana will produce 200-250 million vaccines, Bengaluru facility in Karnataka will produce around 500 mn doses and facility in Ankleshwar, Gujarat will produce about 200 mn vaccines.

Ahead of WHO-Bharat Biotech meet on Covaxin, key stakeholders come together

When the Indian government allowed states to pursue their own vaccine procurement, the idea was welcomed.

States governments were quick to seize the moment. Some chief ministers announced global tenders to buy shots from the international market. Weeks later, they are complaining again.

Because companies like Pfizer and Moderna don't want to deal with them. They want to negotiate directly with the centre and set the terms.&nbsp;

So what do these vaccine majors need from India?

It's not just about the money. They want the kind of guarantees that India hasn't given any vaccine maker.

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Pfizer and Moderna are among the best shots on the international market. Both vaccines work on the same technology. They are more than 90 per cent effective. Together, they have been approved by more than 40 countries. India wants them too. But on its own terms.

The government has authorised states to negotiate for themselves. Global tenders were announced. But it proved to be a damp squib as vaccine makers refused to deal with state governments.

Punjab made request to Moderna, it was denied. Moderna says it will only deal with the central government.

The Delhi state government wrote to Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson and Johnson. It got the same reply. They will only deal with the Government of India.&nbsp;

Beyond the obvious need of approvals and clearances, these vaccine companies have their own demands.

For instance, Pfizer CEO claims that they have been trying to get Pfizer vaccines to India for months. But Pfizer wants indemnity, a legal exemption from future lawsuits over their vaccines. Countries like the US and Britain have signed such clauses.

It basically means that if the vaccine maker is sued in India, it will be the government's problem, not the company's. India has not given such indemnity to any vaccine producer. Why should Pfizer be the exception?

The discussion is still on between the company and the government. In the past, Pfizer has been accused of bullying Latin American countries. They demanded embassy buildings and military bases as guarantee against the cost of any future legal cases.

The other problem is supply. Rich countries have already taken most of the shots off the shelves. Reports say, Moderna has its hands full with the existing orders. It might not have more doses for India. According to a report in April, Moderna already had orders to supply more than 1,000 million doses. These are for countries like the US, the EU, Canada, Japan, Switzerland and others.

Moderna is planning a major expansion in manufacturing. But even with a global tender, India may have to wait in line for its deliveries.

States like, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka have issued global tenders. But all of them are waiting for a bid.

When the Indian government allowed states to pursue their own vaccine procurement, the idea was welcomed. States governments were quick to seize the moment. Some chief ministers announced global tenders to buy shots from the international market.

When the Indian government allowed states to pursue their own vaccine procurement, the idea was welcomed. States governments were quick to seize the moment. Some chief ministers announced global tenders to buy shots from the international market. Weeks later, they are complaining again. Because companies like Pfizer and Moderna don't want to deal with them. They want to negotiate directly with the centre and set the terms. So what do these vaccine majors need from India? It's not just about the money. They want the kind of guarantees that India hasn't given any vaccine maker. × Pfizer and Moderna are among the best shots on the international market. Both vaccines work on the same technology. They are more than 90 per cent effective. Together, they have been approved by more than 40 countries. India wants them too. But on its own terms. The government has authorised states to negotiate for themselves. Global tenders were announced. But it proved to be a damp squib as vaccine makers refused to deal with state governments. Punjab made request to Moderna, it was denied. Moderna says it will only deal with the central government. The Delhi state government wrote to Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson and Johnson. It got the same reply. They will only deal with the Government of India. Beyond the obvious need of approvals and clearances, these vaccine companies have their own demands. For instance, Pfizer CEO claims that they have been trying to get Pfizer vaccines to India for months. But Pfizer wants indemnity, a legal exemption from future lawsuits over their vaccines. Countries like the US and Britain have signed such clauses. It basically means that if the vaccine maker is sued in India, it will be the government's problem, not the company's. India has not given such indemnity to any vaccine producer. Why should Pfizer be the exception? The discussion is still on between the company and the government. In the past, Pfizer has been accused of bullying Latin American countries. They demanded embassy buildings and military bases as guarantee against the cost of any future legal cases. The other problem is supply. Rich countries have already taken most of the shots off the shelves. Reports say, Moderna has its hands full with the existing orders. It might not have more doses for India. According to a report in April, Moderna already had orders to supply more than 1,000 million doses. These are for countries like the US, the EU, Canada, Japan, Switzerland and others. Moderna is planning a major expansion in manufacturing. But even with a global tender, India may have to wait in line for its deliveries. States like, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka have issued global tenders. But all of them are waiting for a bid.

Pfizer and Moderna don't want to deal with Indian states for vaccines

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a failed institution. But we cannot let it remain like that. Public health is now linked to everything. Our economy, our national security, even our politics. This pandemic is proof of that.

So reforming the WHO is top priority. But where to start?

At the World Health Assembly. This is the council that governs the WHO. They set the policy, They elect the director-general. And they approve the budget. Real power lies with this council.

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Unfortunately, the real problem also lies with them.

The 74th World Health Assembly kicked off today. All 194 members were in attendance. This is being billed as the most consequential meeting on public health.

Seeing what happened last year, that's a right assessment. This is the chance to reform the WHO. For a complete cultural revamp at the top. To seek accountability from the leadership. And to release the WHO from China's influence.

But even before the assembly convened, we got a taste of the WHO's politics. One country was missing from the invitation list. A country that first warned the WHO about the pandemic. A country that crushed the pandemic. A country that donated masks and PPE kits to the world: good ones, not the faulty kind that China sent.

The country is Taiwan. WHO has overlooked them once again. Every major country was campaigning for their inclusion.

"There is no reasonable justification for Taiwan’s continued exclusion from this forum, and the United States calls upon the WHO director-general to invite Taiwan to participate as an observer at the WHA," said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken earlier this month.

That was a direct appeal from America's most powerful diplomat to Dr Tedros. An appeal from the WHO's largest donor. It is difficult to imagine that he did not see this appeal.

So why wasn't Taiwan invited? Because Dr Tedros simply ignored it. For him, the orders from Beijing are more important. It wasn't just the United States pushing Taiwan's case.

The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China released a campaign video. 15 lawmakers from Australia, Europe, New Zealand and North America launched the hashtag, #LetTaiwanHelp.

Even the G7 foreign ministers called for Taiwan's participation. They said the international community would benefit from Taiwan's experience.

Taiwan did not get an invite despite all this international support. Because China blocked it. For Beijing, Taiwan is an estranged province, a territory that will one day return to mainland China.

But Taiwan is a full-fledged democracy. They have elections, they have an army. They are everything China is not.

The One-China Policy is losing credibility by the day. But Beijing keeps hanging on to it.

"To safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity, China cannot agree to the Taiwan region's participation in the upcoming session of the world health assembly," said Chinese foreign ministry on Friday.

China ordered, and Dr Tedros followed. In fact, he went a step ahead. Today, a special report was tabled at the World Health Assembly.&nbsp;

It is called COVID-19: Make it the last pandemic

Taiwan's Centres for Disease Control featured on two pages. But the agency was identified as Centres for Disease Control, Taiwan, China.

Taiwan's foreign minister spotted this. He has asked the WHO to correct this error and re-publish.

But that's not going to happen. Because the WHO is indifferent to Taiwan's interests. It is indifferent to the health rights of 23.5 million people who call Taiwan their home.

This anger was reflected in their government's statement.

"As a professional international health body, the World Health Organization should serve the health and welfare of all humanity and not capitulate to the political interests of a certain member.”

Anyone would imagine a public health body to be too busy for petty politics, specially during a pandemic. But that's not the case for the WHO.

So what's the way out?

If the World Health Assembly is the problem, it is also the solution. There are 194 members in the WHA. If a majority of them pass a resolution, they can invite Taiwan. Whether Dr Tedros wants to or not.

The second thing they can do is overhaul the agency. Dr Tedros wants a second term. The assembly can deny him that opportunity. The WHO needs fresh blood. New leaders and experts who read scientific studies. Not Xi Jinping's new little red book.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a failed institution. But we cannot let it remain like that. Public health is now linked to everything. Our economy, our national security, even our politics.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a failed institution. But we cannot let it remain like that. Public health is now linked to everything. Our economy, our national security, even our politics. This pandemic is proof of that. So reforming the WHO is top priority. But where to start? At the World Health Assembly. This is the council that governs the WHO. They set the policy, They elect the director-general. And they approve the budget. Real power lies with this council. × Unfortunately, the real problem also lies with them. The 74th World Health Assembly kicked off today. All 194 members were in attendance. This is being billed as the most consequential meeting on public health. Seeing what happened last year, that's a right assessment. This is the chance to reform the WHO. For a complete cultural revamp at the top. To seek accountability from the leadership. And to release the WHO from China's influence. But even before the assembly convened, we got a taste of the WHO's politics. One country was missing from the invitation list. A country that first warned the WHO about the pandemic. A country that crushed the pandemic. A country that donated masks and PPE kits to the world: good ones, not the faulty kind that China sent. The country is Taiwan. WHO has overlooked them once again. Every major country was campaigning for their inclusion. "There is no reasonable justification for Taiwan’s continued exclusion from this forum, and the United States calls upon the WHO director-general to invite Taiwan to participate as an observer at the WHA," said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken earlier this month. That was a direct appeal from America's most powerful diplomat to Dr Tedros. An appeal from the WHO's largest donor. It is difficult to imagine that he did not see this appeal. So why wasn't Taiwan invited? Because Dr Tedros simply ignored it. For him, the orders from Beijing are more important. It wasn't just the United States pushing Taiwan's case. The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China released a campaign video. 15 lawmakers from Australia, Europe, New Zealand and North America launched the hashtag, #LetTaiwanHelp. Even the G7 foreign ministers called for Taiwan's participation. They said the international community would benefit from Taiwan's experience. Taiwan did not get an invite despite all this international support. Because China blocked it. For Beijing, Taiwan is an estranged province, a territory that will one day return to mainland China. But Taiwan is a full-fledged democracy. They have elections, they have an army. They are everything China is not. The One-China Policy is losing credibility by the day. But Beijing keeps hanging on to it. "To safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity, China cannot agree to the Taiwan region's participation in the upcoming session of the world health assembly," said Chinese foreign ministry on Friday. China ordered, and Dr Tedros followed. In fact, he went a step ahead. Today, a special report was tabled at the World Health Assembly. It is called COVID-19: Make it the last pandemic Taiwan's Centres for Disease Control featured on two pages. But the agency was identified as Centres for Disease Control, Taiwan, China. Taiwan's foreign minister spotted this. He has asked the WHO to correct this error and re-publish. But that's not going to happen. Because the WHO is indifferent to Taiwan's interests. It is indifferent to the health rights of 23.5 million people who call Taiwan their home. This anger was reflected in their government's statement. "As a professional international health body, the World Health Organization should serve the health and welfare of all humanity and not capitulate to the political interests of a certain member.” Anyone would imagine a public health body to be too busy for petty politics, specially during a pandemic. But that's not the case for the WHO. So what's the way out? If the World Health Assembly is the problem, it is also the solution. There are 194 members in the WHA. If a majority of them pass a resolution, they can invite Taiwan. Whether Dr Tedros wants to or not. The second thing they can do is overhaul the agency. Dr Tedros wants a second term. The assembly can deny him that opportunity. The WHO needs fresh blood. New leaders and experts who read scientific studies. Not Xi Jinping's new little red book.

WHO toes China's line, excludes Taiwan from World Health Assembly

Belarus on Sunday sent a fighter jet to escort a passenger plane to land flagging bomb alert that turned out to be false. The plane headed from Athens to Lithuania was diverted to Belarus capital Minsk and an opposition-minded journalist was detained.&nbsp;

The dramatic incident saw a Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jet escort a Ryanair-operated passenger plane flying from Athens to Lithuania. The plane was instead suddenly diverted to Minsk, the capital of Belarus, where authorities detained journalist Roman Protasevich who had been on board.

Roman Protasevich (26), the detained journalist worked for an online opposition news service NEXTA, a Telegram channel that broadcast footage of mass protests against Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko last year at a time when it was hard for foreign media to do so.

Data from the&nbsp;flightradar24.com website showed the plane was diverted just two minutes before it was due to cross into Lithuanian airspace from Belarus.

Protasevich's detention has evoked strong reactions across the world.

Ursula von der Leyen, the head of the European Commission, said Belarus's action was "utterly unacceptable", while British foreign minister Dominic Raab said there would be serious implications for what he called "outlandish action."

Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who like Protasevich operates from Lithuania, called on the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to kick Belarus out of the organisation.

EU member state Lithuania, where Protasevich is based, urged the European Union and NATO to respond.

(With inputs from agencies)

Belarus on Sunday sent a fighter jet to escort a passenger plane to land flagging bomb alert that turned out to be false. The plane headed from Athens to Lithuania was diverted to Belarus capital Minsk and an opposition-minded journalist was detained.

Belarus on Sunday sent a fighter jet to escort a passenger plane to land flagging bomb alert that turned out to be false. The plane headed from Athens to Lithuania was diverted to Belarus capital Minsk and an opposition-minded journalist was detained. The dramatic incident saw a Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jet escort a Ryanair-operated passenger plane flying from Athens to Lithuania. The plane was instead suddenly diverted to Minsk, the capital of Belarus, where authorities detained journalist Roman Protasevich who had been on board. Roman Protasevich (26), the detained journalist worked for an online opposition news service NEXTA, a Telegram channel that broadcast footage of mass protests against Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko last year at a time when it was hard for foreign media to do so. Data from the flightradar24.com website showed the plane was diverted just two minutes before it was due to cross into Lithuanian airspace from Belarus. Protasevich's detention has evoked strong reactions across the world. Ursula von der Leyen, the head of the European Commission, said Belarus's action was "utterly unacceptable", while British foreign minister Dominic Raab said there would be serious implications for what he called "outlandish action." Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who like Protasevich operates from Lithuania, called on the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to kick Belarus out of the organisation. EU member state Lithuania, where Protasevich is based, urged the European Union and NATO to respond. (With inputs from agencies)

Belarus sends fighter jet to divert passenger plane, detains opponent

Dozen of Myanmar security force members were killed on Sunday in a heavy fighting in the country's eastern region, rebel fighters said.

Myanmar is hit by violence and protests ever since the military junta toppled civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. The junta has used strong-handed tactic while trying to control the situation.

The civilian death toll has climbed to at least 815 people, according to a local monitoring group.

The violence has pushed some in the anti-junta movement to form a so-called "People's Defence Force" (PDF) in their own townships -- made up of civilians who fight back against security forces with homemade weapons.

There were clashes in eastern Myanmar over the weekend, particularly in Kayah state's Demoso town, and in neighbouring Shan state.

People's Defence Force member Thet Wai -- not his real name -- said at least 20 police officers died Sunday and his side seized a police station in Moebyel town, Shan state, east of the capital Naypyidaw.

The police station was burnt down and rebel fighters also took four security force members into custody, local media reported.

"I thought today is a day of conquest," Thet Wai, 29, told AFP.

"But I am also worried because we have seen air strikes and tanks today. They have much better weapons than us."

He said the Myanmar military had launched helicopter air strikes in the evening at Demoso, a town in Kayah state about 40 kilometres south.

Another civilian fighter at Demoso said at least 13 Myanmar soldiers had been killed Sunday, while four of his men were wounded.

"We intended to seize their police station, but they used airstrikes and we could not stop their reinforcement trucks getting into the town," he said.

"We had to withdraw our troops from fighting."

The fighting continued through Sunday night, according to a senior leader of the Karenni National Progressive Party -- an ethnic armed group with a stronghold in Kayah state.

He confirmed that the military was using tanks, helicopters and mortar attacks in Demoso and Loikaw, the capital of Kayah state.

Meanwhile, military chief Min Aun Hlaing, who removed civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi from power in the coup, gave a two-hour interview to Hong Kong's Phoenix Television, with the full programme yet to air.

(With inputs from agencies)

Dozen of Myanmar security force members were killed on Sunday in a heavy fighting in the country's eastern region, rebel fighters said. Myanmar is hit by violence and protests ever since the military junta toppled civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi.

Dozen of Myanmar security force members were killed on Sunday in a heavy fighting in the country's eastern region, rebel fighters said. Myanmar is hit by violence and protests ever since the military junta toppled civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. The junta has used strong-handed tactic while trying to control the situation. The civilian death toll has climbed to at least 815 people, according to a local monitoring group. The violence has pushed some in the anti-junta movement to form a so-called "People's Defence Force" (PDF) in their own townships -- made up of civilians who fight back against security forces with homemade weapons. There were clashes in eastern Myanmar over the weekend, particularly in Kayah state's Demoso town, and in neighbouring Shan state. People's Defence Force member Thet Wai -- not his real name -- said at least 20 police officers died Sunday and his side seized a police station in Moebyel town, Shan state, east of the capital Naypyidaw. The police station was burnt down and rebel fighters also took four security force members into custody, local media reported. "I thought today is a day of conquest," Thet Wai, 29, told AFP. "But I am also worried because we have seen air strikes and tanks today. They have much better weapons than us." He said the Myanmar military had launched helicopter air strikes in the evening at Demoso, a town in Kayah state about 40 kilometres south. Another civilian fighter at Demoso said at least 13 Myanmar soldiers had been killed Sunday, while four of his men were wounded. "We intended to seize their police station, but they used airstrikes and we could not stop their reinforcement trucks getting into the town," he said. "We had to withdraw our troops from fighting." The fighting continued through Sunday night, according to a senior leader of the Karenni National Progressive Party -- an ethnic armed group with a stronghold in Kayah state. He confirmed that the military was using tanks, helicopters and mortar attacks in Demoso and Loikaw, the capital of Kayah state. Meanwhile, military chief Min Aun Hlaing, who removed civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi from power in the coup, gave a two-hour interview to Hong Kong's Phoenix Television, with the full programme yet to air. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar: Police and soldiers killed in eastern region amid heavy fighting

Iraq President Barham Saleh on Sunday (March 23) said that USD 150 billion from oil had been smuggled out of Iraq since Saddam Hussein was ousted in 2003. President Saleh presented a draft law to parliament to fight corruption

He called "on parliament to adopt this crucial piece of legislation, in order to curb this pervasive practice that has plagued our great nation".

Transparency International ranks the country 21st from bottom in its Corruption Perceptions Index.

"Of the close to a trillion dollars made from oil since 2003, an estimated $150 billion of stolen money has been smuggled out of Iraq," Saleh added, calling for cooperation with other governments and international bodies to recover the funds.

Endemic corruption was one of the drivers of protests that shook Iraq from October 2019 to June 2020.

"Corruption is an impediment to any nation's economic and social development," the Iraqi head of state said, whose powers are limited under the constitution.

"It deprives citizens of opportunities and livelihoods, and robs them of essential services and infrastructure," he added.

Saleh said violence and terrorism, which have plagued Iraq for years, "are deeply intertwined with the phenomenon of corruption".

The draft law targets those who have held positions of director general and above in government and public companies in the new regime since 2004.

Under this law, transactions over USD 500,000 would be scrutinised as well as bank accounts, particularly those that held over $1 million, and contracts or investments obtained through corruption would be cancelled.

But security and politics expert Fadel Abo Ragheef was sceptical the law would be passed.&nbsp;

"It's certainly one of the best pieces of legislation proposed by the executive branch since 2003. But will it be adopted? I doubt it," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"The political parties the lawmakers belong to will act to sabotage it, so it doesn't pass," he said.

"In public they will support it, but behind the scenes, they will do everything to prevent its adoption, because many of the politicians are involved in this racket".

An Iraqi banking source said politicians have smuggled $60 billion out of the country.

However, much of that was via Lebanon, a move now likely to their detriment, as the country is mired in a severe economic crisis, and it is almost impossible to get money out of its banks.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iraq President Barham Saleh on Sunday (March 23) said that USD 150 billion from oil had been smuggled out of Iraq since Saddam Hussein was ousted in 2003. President Saleh presented a draft law to parliament to fight corruption He called "on parliament to adopt this crucial piece of legislation, in order to curb this pervasive practice that has plagued our great nation".

Iraq President Barham Saleh on Sunday (March 23) said that USD 150 billion from oil had been smuggled out of Iraq since Saddam Hussein was ousted in 2003. President Saleh presented a draft law to parliament to fight corruption He called "on parliament to adopt this crucial piece of legislation, in order to curb this pervasive practice that has plagued our great nation". Transparency International ranks the country 21st from bottom in its Corruption Perceptions Index. "Of the close to a trillion dollars made from oil since 2003, an estimated $150 billion of stolen money has been smuggled out of Iraq," Saleh added, calling for cooperation with other governments and international bodies to recover the funds. Endemic corruption was one of the drivers of protests that shook Iraq from October 2019 to June 2020. "Corruption is an impediment to any nation's economic and social development," the Iraqi head of state said, whose powers are limited under the constitution. "It deprives citizens of opportunities and livelihoods, and robs them of essential services and infrastructure," he added. Saleh said violence and terrorism, which have plagued Iraq for years, "are deeply intertwined with the phenomenon of corruption". The draft law targets those who have held positions of director general and above in government and public companies in the new regime since 2004. Under this law, transactions over USD 500,000 would be scrutinised as well as bank accounts, particularly those that held over $1 million, and contracts or investments obtained through corruption would be cancelled. But security and politics expert Fadel Abo Ragheef was sceptical the law would be passed. "It's certainly one of the best pieces of legislation proposed by the executive branch since 2003. But will it be adopted? I doubt it," he told AFP. "The political parties the lawmakers belong to will act to sabotage it, so it doesn't pass," he said. "In public they will support it, but behind the scenes, they will do everything to prevent its adoption, because many of the politicians are involved in this racket". An Iraqi banking source said politicians have smuggled $60 billion out of the country. However, much of that was via Lebanon, a move now likely to their detriment, as the country is mired in a severe economic crisis, and it is almost impossible to get money out of its banks. (With inputs from agencies)

Iraq: USD 150 billion worth stolen oil cash smuggled out since 2003

Bitcoin dipped 11.33% to $33,250 at 16:00 GMT on Sunday, losing $4,248.98 from its previous close.

Bitcoin, the world's biggest and best-known cryptocurrency, is down 48% from the year's high of $64,895.22 on April 14.

Ether, the coin linked to the ethereum blockchain network, dropped 16.59 % to $1,915.34 on Sunday, losing $380.97 from its previous close.

Bitcoin markets operate 24/7, setting the stage for price swings at unpredictable hours.

"Many point to Bitcoin’s volatility as untenable," wrote RBC Capital Markets' Amy Wu Silverman in a research note published on Saturday. "Indeed, Bitcoin makes severe and dizzying swings."

Bitcoin had been under pressure after a series of tweets last week by billionaire Tesla Chief Executive and cryptocurrency backer Elon Musk, chiefly his reversal on Tesla accepting bitcoin as payment.

In addition, on Friday China cracked down on mining and trading of the largest cryptocurrency as part of ongoing efforts to prevent speculative and financial risks.

China's Financial Stability and Development Committee, chaired by Vice Premier Liu He, singled out bitcoin as the asset it needs to regulate more.

The statement, which came days after three Chinese industry bodies tightened a ban on banks and payment companies providing crypto-related services, was a sharp escalation of the country's push to stamp out speculation and fraud in virtual currencies.

China's latest campaign against crypto came after the U.S. Treasury Department on Thursday called for new rules that would require large cryptocurrency transfers to be reported to the Internal Revenue Service, and the Federal Reserve flagged the risks cryptocurrencies posed to financial stability.

Bitcoin dipped 11.33% to $33,250 at 16:00 GMT on Sunday, losing $4,248.98 from its previous close. Bitcoin, the world's biggest and best-known cryptocurrency, is down 48% from the year's high of $64,895.

Bitcoin dipped 11.33% to $33,250 at 16:00 GMT on Sunday, losing $4,248.98 from its previous close. Bitcoin, the world's biggest and best-known cryptocurrency, is down 48% from the year's high of $64,895.22 on April 14. Ether, the coin linked to the ethereum blockchain network, dropped 16.59 % to $1,915.34 on Sunday, losing $380.97 from its previous close. Bitcoin markets operate 24/7, setting the stage for price swings at unpredictable hours. "Many point to Bitcoin’s volatility as untenable," wrote RBC Capital Markets' Amy Wu Silverman in a research note published on Saturday. "Indeed, Bitcoin makes severe and dizzying swings." Bitcoin had been under pressure after a series of tweets last week by billionaire Tesla Chief Executive and cryptocurrency backer Elon Musk, chiefly his reversal on Tesla accepting bitcoin as payment. In addition, on Friday China cracked down on mining and trading of the largest cryptocurrency as part of ongoing efforts to prevent speculative and financial risks. China's Financial Stability and Development Committee, chaired by Vice Premier Liu He, singled out bitcoin as the asset it needs to regulate more. The statement, which came days after three Chinese industry bodies tightened a ban on banks and payment companies providing crypto-related services, was a sharp escalation of the country's push to stamp out speculation and fraud in virtual currencies. China's latest campaign against crypto came after the U.S. Treasury Department on Thursday called for new rules that would require large cryptocurrency transfers to be reported to the Internal Revenue Service, and the Federal Reserve flagged the risks cryptocurrencies posed to financial stability.

Bitcoin falls 11.3 per cent to USD 33,250, ether down 16.6 per cent

Gone are the days when battles dragged on for years. Now battles are instant. It's all about striking swiftly and stealthily. And to do this, you need instant decision making and state-of-the-art weaponry.

How does the chain of command work in India? Is there scope for improvement? And what about our weapons? Can they keep up with the rest of the world?

India's defence is split into three services: the Air Force, the Navy and the Army. They have their own headquarters, bases and leadership. It's been this way for decades.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-plan-for-joint-commands-386620">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-plan-for-joint-commands-386620/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

But this system has drawbacks. There is a lot of duplication of work and unnecessary bureaucracy.

For example, Indian airspace is defended by all three services. They are tracking threats on separate frequencies with their own radars.

But every army headquarters is located next to an airbase. So two agencies are doing the same work sitting right next to each other. Talk about the wastage of resources and manpower.

If Army, during a combing operation, wants some air support, the in-charge calls up the Air Force.

The Air Force will then churn this request through its ranks. The problem here is clear. The person in charge of the operation does not have complete control over the assets.

This was the story every time India went to war. The Air Force had its own plan. And the Army was doing its own thing.

But modern war machines cannot function like this. And India is realising it. The defence establishment is moving towards what is called "theaterisation". This is how the US and China organise their forces.

In India, there's a talk of five commands - the northern command to deal with China, the western command on the Pakistan side,&nbsp;&nbsp;peninsula command in southern India, a&nbsp;maritime command to patrol the seas and an air defence command to protect the airspace.

So how is this different from the current set-up? The commands are unified establishments. This means the army the navy and the air force will function together under one command. No more shuttling between agencies for orders. All three services will answer to a single commander. In military circles they call this jointness and integration.

India cannot underestimate the&nbsp;mindset problem. The three services are used to autonomy. Both the air force and navy fear the army will dominate joint commands. This could lead to a turf war, a territorial battle for assets, funds and for influence.

The other big challenge is logistics. If you appoint a commander what happens to the chiefs of staff? Do the soldiers still report to them? Or will commanders take over operational control?

Same is the thing with assets. The air force only has 31 squadrons. Can they spread their assets wide enough to support every command? These are some of the big challenges to joint theatres.

The US has a tried and tested system.

But India cannot copy it. India's tri-service chief has ruled this out. Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat says India will develop its own system of joint theatres.

The military is tight-lipped about the plans. But reports say they should be operational by next year. Hopefully, this will solve the bottlenecks in decision making.

An army is only as good as the weapons it has. This is where India has struggled in the past with outdated weapons aircraft and ships. The only way to overhaul this is through defence spending. Now on paper, India is the third largest spender in the world behind the US and China.

A break-up of India's defence budget shows that&nbsp;50 per cent of the funds go to salaries and pensions. So at the start of every month, half the money is already gone. Where does that leave India's modernisation plans? These are figures from this year's budget. The total allocation was 4.78 trillion rupees.

After pensions, salaries and other expenses, 1.35 trillion rupees were left. Just 28 per cent of the total budget.

For a country with two belligerent neighbours, this is simply inadequate.

What are India's options?

One is to keep expanding the defence bill. But as this pandemic has shown, India needs to put more money in public health and infrastructure. So a big defence bill could be highly unpopular.

What about reforming pensions? Maybe extend the retirement age of officers? Every time someone suggests this, there is backlash from veterans. And the situation isn't getting any better. We need active deployments in the east and west. Which means more soldiers more salaries and more pensions. Where will the money come from?

A viable option is to trim the loose ends. Streamline acquisitions, cut down on duplication of work.

Right now, every service has its own wishlist. There is no synergy between them on acquisitions. The goal is to get them all together so that India's defence establishment has one wishlist not three.

All of this is easier said than done. The bureaucrats are sure to oppose a unified command. They hate being sidelined. Also, we need to be ready for squabbles between generals, admirals and air marshals.

But these worries shouldn't concern India much because unification of command is like a rebirth for the military. Every big power has gone through it and and they are better off with the new system.

Gone are the days when battles dragged on for years. Now battles are instant. It's all about striking swiftly and stealthily. And to do this, you need instant decision making and state-of-the-art weaponry.

Gone are the days when battles dragged on for years. Now battles are instant. It's all about striking swiftly and stealthily. And to do this, you need instant decision making and state-of-the-art weaponry. How does the chain of command work in India? Is there scope for improvement? And what about our weapons? Can they keep up with the rest of the world? India's defence is split into three services: the Air Force, the Navy and the Army. They have their own headquarters, bases and leadership. It's been this way for decades. Watch | But this system has drawbacks. There is a lot of duplication of work and unnecessary bureaucracy. For example, Indian airspace is defended by all three services. They are tracking threats on separate frequencies with their own radars. But every army headquarters is located next to an airbase. So two agencies are doing the same work sitting right next to each other. Talk about the wastage of resources and manpower. If Army, during a combing operation, wants some air support, the in-charge calls up the Air Force. The Air Force will then churn this request through its ranks. The problem here is clear. The person in charge of the operation does not have complete control over the assets. This was the story every time India went to war. The Air Force had its own plan. And the Army was doing its own thing. But modern war machines cannot function like this. And India is realising it. The defence establishment is moving towards what is called "theaterisation". This is how the US and China organise their forces. In India, there's a talk of five commands - the northern command to deal with China, the western command on the Pakistan side, peninsula command in southern India, a maritime command to patrol the seas and an air defence command to protect the airspace. So how is this different from the current set-up? The commands are unified establishments. This means the army the navy and the air force will function together under one command. No more shuttling between agencies for orders. All three services will answer to a single commander. In military circles they call this jointness and integration. India cannot underestimate the mindset problem. The three services are used to autonomy. Both the air force and navy fear the army will dominate joint commands. This could lead to a turf war, a territorial battle for assets, funds and for influence. The other big challenge is logistics. If you appoint a commander what happens to the chiefs of staff? Do the soldiers still report to them? Or will commanders take over operational control? Same is the thing with assets. The air force only has 31 squadrons. Can they spread their assets wide enough to support every command? These are some of the big challenges to joint theatres. The US has a tried and tested system. But India cannot copy it. India's tri-service chief has ruled this out. Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat says India will develop its own system of joint theatres. The military is tight-lipped about the plans. But reports say they should be operational by next year. Hopefully, this will solve the bottlenecks in decision making. An army is only as good as the weapons it has. This is where India has struggled in the past with outdated weapons aircraft and ships. The only way to overhaul this is through defence spending. Now on paper, India is the third largest spender in the world behind the US and China. A break-up of India's defence budget shows that 50 per cent of the funds go to salaries and pensions. So at the start of every month, half the money is already gone. Where does that leave India's modernisation plans? These are figures from this year's budget. The total allocation was 4.78 trillion rupees. After pensions, salaries and other expenses, 1.35 trillion rupees were left. Just 28 per cent of the total budget. For a country with two belligerent neighbours, this is simply inadequate. What are India's options? One is to keep expanding the defence bill. But as this pandemic has shown, India needs to put more money in public health and infrastructure. So a big defence bill could be highly unpopular. What about reforming pensions? Maybe extend the retirement age of officers? Every time someone suggests this, there is backlash from veterans. And the situation isn't getting any better. We need active deployments in the east and west. Which means more soldiers more salaries and more pensions. Where will the money come from? A viable option is to trim the loose ends. Streamline acquisitions, cut down on duplication of work. Right now, every service has its own wishlist. There is no synergy between them on acquisitions. The goal is to get them all together so that India's defence establishment has one wishlist not three. All of this is easier said than done. The bureaucrats are sure to oppose a unified command. They hate being sidelined. Also, we need to be ready for squabbles between generals, admirals and air marshals. But these worries shouldn't concern India much because unification of command is like a rebirth for the military. Every big power has gone through it and and they are better off with the new system.

India's defence forces aim at 'theaterisation' of command

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Manas Joshi

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