India`s top court on Tuesday gave telecom firms 10 years to pay back dues they owe to the federal government after they failed to make the payment by the January deadline.

Telecom providers in India pay the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) nearly 3-5% of their adjusted gross revenue (AGR) in usage charges for spectrum or airwaves and 8% of AGR as licence fees, but they have been at odds on the definition of AGR.

The decision would provide some respite to embattled Vodafone Idea Ltd, a joint venture between Britain`s&nbsp; 
Vodafone Group Plc and India`s Idea Cellular, even though it had asked the court for 15 years to complete payments.

The Supreme Court, however, asked that telecoms firms pay 10% of the dues owed by March 31, 2021.

Vodafone Idea, seen as the most vulnerable if the court did not allow for staggered payments, has so far paid 78.54 billion Indian rupees ($1.08 billion), but still owes roughly 500 billion to the government.

Bharti Airtel has said it has paid its complete dues of 180 billion rupees on the basis of self-assessment, but still needs to pay another 259.76 billion rupees, according to government calculations.

Shares in Vodafone Idea were down 14.7%, while Bharti was up 5.3% at 0623 GMT. 
($1 = 72.7800 Indian rupees) 
&nbsp;

India`s top court on Tuesday gave telecom firms 10 years to pay back dues they owe to the federal government after they failed to make the payment by the January deadline.

India`s top court on Tuesday gave telecom firms 10 years to pay back dues they owe to the federal government after they failed to make the payment by the January deadline. Telecom providers in India pay the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) nearly 3-5% of their adjusted gross revenue (AGR) in usage charges for spectrum or airwaves and 8% of AGR as licence fees, but they have been at odds on the definition of AGR. The decision would provide some respite to embattled Vodafone Idea Ltd, a joint venture between Britain`s Vodafone Group Plc and India`s Idea Cellular, even though it had asked the court for 15 years to complete payments. The Supreme Court, however, asked that telecoms firms pay 10% of the dues owed by March 31, 2021. Vodafone Idea, seen as the most vulnerable if the court did not allow for staggered payments, has so far paid 78.54 billion Indian rupees ($1.08 billion), but still owes roughly 500 billion to the government. Bharti Airtel has said it has paid its complete dues of 180 billion rupees on the basis of self-assessment, but still needs to pay another 259.76 billion rupees, according to government calculations. Shares in Vodafone Idea were down 14.7%, while Bharti was up 5.3% at 0623 GMT. ($1 = 72.7800 Indian rupees)

Supreme Court gives Vodafone-Idea, Airtel 10 years to pay AGR dues to government

In the age of Tinders and WhatsApps, it is a matter of awe for many if a relationship lasts long enough. But for folks belonging to generation that believed in repairing a broken thing rather than steadfastly going for a new one, this is not something jawdropping.

Still, when a couple spends almost 80 years hand-in-hand, it surely makes a tale worth hearing.

Julio Mora decided to leave his parents to marry his ladylove Waldramina Quinteros. Both of their families disapproved of their marriage. Aganist all odds, these two not only sustained their marriage but are still going strong for nearly 80 years.

Julio Moea was born on March 10, 1910 while Waldramina was born on October 16, 1915. Both of them Ecuadorian.

They married on February 7, 1941.&nbsp;

They received a Guiness Book of World Records certification for longest marriage between two people so old.

Both, Julio and Wildramina are in good health and are lucid.

However, they are said to be a bit down as they can't meet their family due to coronavirus pandemic.

They have four surviving children, 11 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and a great-great grandchild.

ABC news said that the couple that held the record for being the oldest belonged to Austin, Texas. 
&nbsp;

In the age of Tinders and WhatsApps, it is a matter of awe for many if a relationship lasts long enough. But for folks belonging to generation that believed in repairing a broken thing rather than steadfastly going for a new one, this is not something jawdropping.

In the age of Tinders and WhatsApps, it is a matter of awe for many if a relationship lasts long enough. But for folks belonging to generation that believed in repairing a broken thing rather than steadfastly going for a new one, this is not something jawdropping. Still, when a couple spends almost 80 years hand-in-hand, it surely makes a tale worth hearing. Julio Mora decided to leave his parents to marry his ladylove Waldramina Quinteros. Both of their families disapproved of their marriage. Aganist all odds, these two not only sustained their marriage but are still going strong for nearly 80 years. Julio Moea was born on March 10, 1910 while Waldramina was born on October 16, 1915. Both of them Ecuadorian. They married on February 7, 1941. They received a Guiness Book of World Records certification for longest marriage between two people so old. Both, Julio and Wildramina are in good health and are lucid. However, they are said to be a bit down as they can't meet their family due to coronavirus pandemic. They have four surviving children, 11 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and a great-great grandchild. ABC news said that the couple that held the record for being the oldest belonged to Austin, Texas.

Ecuadorian couple becomes world's oldest married couple

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday warned that Lebanon risks a return to civil war if it is left alone to deal with the crisis that followed the deadly Beirut port explosion this month.

Macron was speaking as he prepared to head to Lebanon on Monday in a new bid to press its leaders to undertake radical reform in the wake of the explosion this month that left 181 dead.

“If we let Lebanon go in the region and if we somehow leave it in the hands of the depravity of regional powers, it will be civil war” as well as “the defeat of what is the very identity of Lebanon,” he said.

Paris is impatient over the lack of progress in forming a new government to undertake reform in the aftermath of the blast, which was blamed on a store of ammonium nitrate left for years in a warehouse.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-at-risk-of-disappearing-french-foreign-minister-warns-323433">Lebanon at 'risk of disappearing', French Foreign Minister warns</a> 
 
Many Lebanese have blamed the disaster on a ruling class they charge as being mired in nepotism, corruption and neglect since the 1975-1990 civil war.

Macron spoke of the “constraints of a confessional system” in a country populated by Christians, Sunni Muslims and Shiites.

But he said that added to this was “what can be mildly described as vested interests” and this had led to “a situation where there is hardly any [political] renewal and where there is there is almost an impossibility of carrying out reforms.”

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He insisted that France would follow a policy of being “demanding without interfering” and awaited reforms like passing an anti-corruption law and reforming public contracts, the energy sector and the banking system.

“If we do not do this, the Lebanese economy will collapse” and “the only victim will be the Lebanese people… who cannot go into exile,” he warned.

He extolled Lebanon’s multi-confessional make-up saying it “is perhaps one of the last existing forms” in the Middle East of the “peaceful possible coexistence of religions” and a pluralist system based on “education and culture.” 
&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday warned that Lebanon risks a return to civil war if it is left alone to deal with the crisis that followed the deadly Beirut port explosion this month.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday warned that Lebanon risks a return to civil war if it is left alone to deal with the crisis that followed the deadly Beirut port explosion this month. Macron was speaking as he prepared to head to Lebanon on Monday in a new bid to press its leaders to undertake radical reform in the wake of the explosion this month that left 181 dead. “If we let Lebanon go in the region and if we somehow leave it in the hands of the depravity of regional powers, it will be civil war” as well as “the defeat of what is the very identity of Lebanon,” he said. Paris is impatient over the lack of progress in forming a new government to undertake reform in the aftermath of the blast, which was blamed on a store of ammonium nitrate left for years in a warehouse. Also Read | Lebanon at 'risk of disappearing', French Foreign Minister warns Many Lebanese have blamed the disaster on a ruling class they charge as being mired in nepotism, corruption and neglect since the 1975-1990 civil war. Macron spoke of the “constraints of a confessional system” in a country populated by Christians, Sunni Muslims and Shiites. But he said that added to this was “what can be mildly described as vested interests” and this had led to “a situation where there is hardly any [political] renewal and where there is there is almost an impossibility of carrying out reforms.” × He insisted that France would follow a policy of being “demanding without interfering” and awaited reforms like passing an anti-corruption law and reforming public contracts, the energy sector and the banking system. “If we do not do this, the Lebanese economy will collapse” and “the only victim will be the Lebanese people… who cannot go into exile,” he warned. He extolled Lebanon’s multi-confessional make-up saying it “is perhaps one of the last existing forms” in the Middle East of the “peaceful possible coexistence of religions” and a pluralist system based on “education and culture.”

French President Macron warns of new civil war in Lebanon

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) said on Saturday that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had "recovred" after "post-COVID-19&nbsp;care". AIIMS added that he will be discharged in a short time. He was admitted to AIIMS hospital on August 18.

"Amit Shah, Hon'ble Home Minister is admitted at AIIMS, New Delhi for post-COVID-19 care. He has recovered and is likely to be discharged in a short time," said AIIMS in its statement.

Amit Shah was admitted to AIIMS after he had complained of fatigue and body ache.

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/number-of-coronavirus-tests-crosses-40-million-mark-in-india-323892">Number of coronavirus tests crosses 40-million mark in India</a>

The Union Home Minister was admitted to Medanta Hospital previously, after&nbsp;he was found positive for Covid-19 infection.

On August 2, Shah, 55, had said on Twitter that he had tested positive for COVID-19. He had undergone treatment for the coronavirus infection at Medanta Hospital and was discharged after he tested negative for the disease.

He was admitted to AIIMS just days after his discharge from Medanta.

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) said on Saturday that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had "recovred" after "post-COVID-19 care". AIIMS added that he will be discharged in a short time.

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) said on Saturday that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had "recovred" after "post-COVID-19 care". AIIMS added that he will be discharged in a short time. He was admitted to AIIMS hospital on August 18. "Amit Shah, Hon'ble Home Minister is admitted at AIIMS, New Delhi for post-COVID-19 care. He has recovered and is likely to be discharged in a short time," said AIIMS in its statement. Amit Shah was admitted to AIIMS after he had complained of fatigue and body ache. Also Read: Number of coronavirus tests crosses 40-million mark in India The Union Home Minister was admitted to Medanta Hospital previously, after he was found positive for Covid-19 infection. On August 2, Shah, 55, had said on Twitter that he had tested positive for COVID-19. He had undergone treatment for the coronavirus infection at Medanta Hospital and was discharged after he tested negative for the disease. He was admitted to AIIMS just days after his discharge from Medanta. (With inputs from PTI)

Home Minister Amit Shah has recovered after COVID-19 care, to be discharged soon: AIIMS

Bangladesh authorities have decided to restore internet in Cox's Bazar settlement of Rohingya Muslims. The Cox's Bazar settlement is the largest refugee settlement in the world. Bangladesh had snapped 3G and 4G internet from the Rohingya settlement about a year ago. The move had attracted international condemnation.

"Our Foreign Minister and International NGOs are saying that we have an international pressure to restore the service. Besides, we have information in our hand that the Rohingyas are using Myanmar’s SIM card that means they are going through Myanmar’s network. So who are they talking to?..." Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, Bangladesh Minister of Home Affairs told WION.

He added that as Bangladesh Government wanted the Rohingyas to use the country's network, it was restoring 3G and 4G network.

"... We want to get them back in our network to keep their activities in control," he said

Kamal added that Bangladesh government does not want to "control general Rohingya people in the camps" but said that government want to keep an eye on terrorist elements that may "sometimes provoke the Rohingyas"

The Home Minister however, warned that the government can shut down the internet again if situation demands it.

"...Yes, we have some concerns about how we control this huge population of using the internet. But we will shut down it again, if needed. Actually we can do anything to ensure our people’s security,’’ he said.

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/three-years-since-rohingya-exodus-from-fleeing-myanmar-to-icj-trial-323034">Three years since Rohingya exodus: From fleeing Myanmar to ICJ trial</a>

Bangladesh had received flak for continuing to suspend internet services even amid coronavirus pandemic. Human Rights groups had warned that such move may give rise to unnecessary rumours

Foreign Secretary Masud bin Momen was quoted by AFP saying that the spread of "baseless rumours and misinformation" could create panic and destabilise the camps, where a few Rohingya have been killed in internal clashes in recent years.

"However, responding to the requests from our friends and also for the need of imparting education and COVID-19 response, for greater internet connectivity, we have taken a decision on lifting the restrictions on 3G and 4G mobile networks, which will be effective very soon," Momen said.

The first infection in the camps was detected in May but fears that the virus could spread quickly have so far not been realised.

Khin Maung, head of the Rohingya Youth Association, said the restoration of internet access was "very good news".

"We can now get regular updates on COVID-19. And we can mobilise people against the activities of the human traffickers," he said.

(With AFP inputs) 
&nbsp;

Bangladesh authorities have decided to restore internet in Cox's Bazar settlement of Rohingya Muslims. The Cox's Bazar settlement is the largest refugee settlement in the world.

Bangladesh authorities have decided to restore internet in Cox's Bazar settlement of Rohingya Muslims. The Cox's Bazar settlement is the largest refugee settlement in the world. Bangladesh had snapped 3G and 4G internet from the Rohingya settlement about a year ago. The move had attracted international condemnation. "Our Foreign Minister and International NGOs are saying that we have an international pressure to restore the service. Besides, we have information in our hand that the Rohingyas are using Myanmar’s SIM card that means they are going through Myanmar’s network. So who are they talking to?..." Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, Bangladesh Minister of Home Affairs told WION. He added that as Bangladesh Government wanted the Rohingyas to use the country's network, it was restoring 3G and 4G network. "... We want to get them back in our network to keep their activities in control," he said Kamal added that Bangladesh government does not want to "control general Rohingya people in the camps" but said that government want to keep an eye on terrorist elements that may "sometimes provoke the Rohingyas" The Home Minister however, warned that the government can shut down the internet again if situation demands it. "...Yes, we have some concerns about how we control this huge population of using the internet. But we will shut down it again, if needed. Actually we can do anything to ensure our people’s security,’’ he said. Also Read: Three years since Rohingya exodus: From fleeing Myanmar to ICJ trial Bangladesh had received flak for continuing to suspend internet services even amid coronavirus pandemic. Human Rights groups had warned that such move may give rise to unnecessary rumours Foreign Secretary Masud bin Momen was quoted by AFP saying that the spread of "baseless rumours and misinformation" could create panic and destabilise the camps, where a few Rohingya have been killed in internal clashes in recent years. "However, responding to the requests from our friends and also for the need of imparting education and COVID-19 response, for greater internet connectivity, we have taken a decision on lifting the restrictions on 3G and 4G mobile networks, which will be effective very soon," Momen said. The first infection in the camps was detected in May but fears that the virus could spread quickly have so far not been realised. Khin Maung, head of the Rohingya Youth Association, said the restoration of internet access was "very good news". "We can now get regular updates on COVID-19. And we can mobilise people against the activities of the human traffickers," he said. (With AFP inputs)

Bangladesh to restore internet in Rohingya refugee settlement

As many as 151 Maharashtra Police personnel have tested positive for COVID-19 and five others have lost their lives in the last 24 hours, according to the state police department on Saturday.According to the Maharashtra Police, so far a total number of 14,792 cops have tested positive for COVID-19 and while 11,867 have recovered after treatment, 153 others lost their lives due to the virus.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, 2,772 cops are active COVID-19 patients in the state.Police have registered as many as 2,43,934 offences under Section 188 (disobedience or order duly promulgated by public servant) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Also, 340 incidents of assualt on police have been reported in the state.

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/no-bjp-leader-took-aaditya-thackerays-name-in-sushant-case-says-ex-maharashtra-cm-devendra-fadnavis-323725">No BJP leader took Aaditya Thackeray's name in Sushant case, says Ex-Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis</a> 
 
Moreover, the Maharashtra Police has arrested 34,017 people for flouting COVID-19 guidelines and fined a total amount of Rs 23,36,44,394.&nbsp;

As per the police, 72 incidents of attack on health professionals have been reported and 829 people have been found violating quarantine measures in the state.According to official data, there are a total number of 1,81,050 active COVID-19 cases in Maharashtra, while 5,43,170 people have recovered after treatment and 23,775 others have lost their lives due to the virus.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

As many as 151 Maharashtra Police personnel have tested positive for COVID-19 and five others have lost their lives in the last 24 hours, according to the state police department on Saturday.

As many as 151 Maharashtra Police personnel have tested positive for COVID-19 and five others have lost their lives in the last 24 hours, according to the state police department on Saturday.According to the Maharashtra Police, so far a total number of 14,792 cops have tested positive for COVID-19 and while 11,867 have recovered after treatment, 153 others lost their lives due to the virus. Meanwhile, 2,772 cops are active COVID-19 patients in the state.Police have registered as many as 2,43,934 offences under Section 188 (disobedience or order duly promulgated by public servant) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Also, 340 incidents of assualt on police have been reported in the state. Also Read: No BJP leader took Aaditya Thackeray's name in Sushant case, says Ex-Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis Moreover, the Maharashtra Police has arrested 34,017 people for flouting COVID-19 guidelines and fined a total amount of Rs 23,36,44,394. As per the police, 72 incidents of attack on health professionals have been reported and 829 people have been found violating quarantine measures in the state.According to official data, there are a total number of 1,81,050 active COVID-19 cases in Maharashtra, while 5,43,170 people have recovered after treatment and 23,775 others have lost their lives due to the virus.

Maharashtra Police reports 151 new COVID-19 cases, 5 deaths in 24 hours

U.S. Senator Rand Paul, who attended President Donald Trump`s Republican Party nomination convention, said on Friday he was attacked by what he described as an "angry mob" of more than 100 people near the White House and had to be rescued by the police.

"Just got attacked by an angry mob of over 100, one block away from the White House. Thank you to DC Police Dept for literally saving our lives from a crazed mob," the senator wrote on twitter&nbsp;

erified by Reuters, show the senator and his wife Kelley walking down the street as crowds gathered near them shouting and shoving the police who tried to protect the couple.

The police could be heard asking the crowd to "back-off" as they escorted the senator to his hotel. 
It wasn`t immediately clear as to what led to the attack on Senator Paul.

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/kamala-harris-not-competent-to-be-us-president-ivanka-better-donald-trump-323883">Kamala Harris 'not competent' to be US president, Ivanka better: Donald Trump</a>

Hundreds of anti-Trump protesters had gathered outside the White House on Thursday evening as Trump accepted the Republican Party`s nomination for the 2020 presidential election. Attendees could hear the protesters sounding horns near the White House as he spoke.

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"What happened to Rand &amp; Kelley tonight (and numerous others exiting the RNC) was wrong," tweeted Republican Senator Ted Cruz.

"The police protecting them were heroic, but this needs to stop. This is very close to escalating to serious violence."

U.S. Senator Rand Paul, who attended President Donald Trump`s Republican Party nomination convention, said on Friday he was attacked by what he described as an "angry mob" of more than 100 people near the White House and had to be rescued by the police.

U.S. Senator Rand Paul, who attended President Donald Trump`s Republican Party nomination convention, said on Friday he was attacked by what he described as an "angry mob" of more than 100 people near the White House and had to be rescued by the police. "Just got attacked by an angry mob of over 100, one block away from the White House. Thank you to DC Police Dept for literally saving our lives from a crazed mob," the senator wrote on twitter erified by Reuters, show the senator and his wife Kelley walking down the street as crowds gathered near them shouting and shoving the police who tried to protect the couple. The police could be heard asking the crowd to "back-off" as they escorted the senator to his hotel. It wasn`t immediately clear as to what led to the attack on Senator Paul. Also Read: Kamala Harris 'not competent' to be US president, Ivanka better: Donald Trump Hundreds of anti-Trump protesters had gathered outside the White House on Thursday evening as Trump accepted the Republican Party`s nomination for the 2020 presidential election. Attendees could hear the protesters sounding horns near the White House as he spoke. × "What happened to Rand & Kelley tonight (and numerous others exiting the RNC) was wrong," tweeted Republican Senator Ted Cruz. "The police protecting them were heroic, but this needs to stop. This is very close to escalating to serious violence."

US Republican Party Senator Rand Paul alleges he was 'attacked' near White House

By Shikhil Sharma

Cyberspace security has become the need of the hour as companies increasingly switch to digital business models. Cyber security hasbecome a common concern (and term) in the boardroom meetings. &nbsp;

With an active rise in the interest of cybersecurity and having an on ground view of the threats we face as a nation - I think the following 5 points should be included in our new cyber security policy, with a revision every 2-3 years

1. State-sponsored threat retaliation strategy

One of the biggest threats a nation faces is state-sponsored targeted threats from other nations. Quite recently, Australia became victim of a state-sponsored attack. In such attacks government infrastructure, private infrastructure and citizens are targeted at the same time in a series of cyber attacks. This Advansed Persistent Threat (APT) is something which poses a big challenge.&nbsp;

Truth be told, just having a policy to tackle state sponsored APT won’t be enough. The policy needs to define a ‘retaliation’ action plan too.&nbsp;

Important points to be noted:

<ul>
	<li>The policy should define or make a provision to define an ‘action plan’ in case of a state sponsored attack.</li>
	<li>Containing the APT won’t be enough. There needs to be a clear ‘trapping’ plan to have enough data on the origin of the APT or state sponsored threat.</li>
	<li>A retaliation plan should also be in place if need arises to fend off the enemy.</li>
	<li>These plans need to have a clear flow from policy to a government department executing it. ‘Mock drills’ for such scenarios need to be done.</li>
</ul>

2. SOS lockdown policy

When a cyber attack happens, there can be a mass disruption in services/infrastructure. There needs to be a clear nationwide lockdown policy for key infrastructure of the nation. We are talking about nuclear grids, power grids, financial institutions, satellite communication etc.&nbsp;

Whenever a nation wide security incident/attack happens, it’s often well thought out and planned for months if not years. In such cases, the bad actors know which components to target first. This makes it important to have a lockdown policy to ensure critical infrastructure is protected during such time and damage is controlled.

Important points to be noted:

<ul>
	<li>SOS lockdown policy should not be made public fully as that might give enemy the information.</li>
	<li>The lockdown policy will require cyber security specialists to be deployed or trained in each of the critical sectors.</li>
</ul>

3.&nbsp;Security framework for 5G &amp; iOT devices

With 5G setting foot, the rise of iOT devices is inevitable. This means more devices connected to the internet and each other. This also means ‘smart’ being appended to everything we can think of.&nbsp;

This calls for a security standard to be defined for all the 5G devices coming to the market. The best case would be the government defining security standards of these new internet connected devices with the help of security companies.

Also Read : <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-eu-imposes-cyberattack-sanctions-on-chinese-nationals-linked-to-chinese-intelligence-agency-318078">Now, EU imposes cyberattack sanctions on Chinese nationals linked to Chinese intelligence agency</a> 
&nbsp;

Important points to be noted:

<ul>
	<li>A clearly defined certification or ‘standard’ needs to be put out for iOT devices.</li>
	<li>Government or government authorized departments/companies should ensure these newly entering iOT devices meet privacy requirements and security standards ensuring private data of citizens isn’t at risk.</li>
	<li>These are the devices which will be kept at our homes, in our cars &amp; bedrooms - the privacy risks can be un-imaginable. One cannot take any risk with this one.</li>
</ul>

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&nbsp;

 
4. Nationwide cyber security training

India has the responsibility of bringing 600 million+ population to the internet ‘safely’. It should also be ensured that current population already on the internet (over 700 million) is security conscious.

Important points to be noted:

<ul>
	<li>‘We are as strong as our weakest link’, our training programs should be built with this principle in mind. When it comes to cyber security, even in most tech savvy organizations, humans have been found to be the weakest links.</li>
	<li>This nationwide training has to be done in a way that less savvy people understand at least basic do’s and don'ts of the internet&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Our banks have been largely successful in raising awareness around banking frauds. It’s always a work in progress, but in today’s world more people understand that they don’t have to give their online banking password, CVV or any other sensitive information to anyone, even if the other person claims to be a bank official. Such awareness will definitely meet a certain threshold of cyber security. Ofcourse, such models are constantly evolving.</li>
	<li>Training over SMS, IVR and emails need to be made at a mass scale, in a way the common man understands.</li>
</ul>

5. Enforcing security standards on private companies &amp; rewarding&nbsp;

The nation should have a cyber security standard defined for every private company. Every company uses emails for communication and has a website even if it is not an internet business. The government should clearly define what is expected of private companies when it comes to cyber security and what are the consequences of not meeting the expectations. Ideally, this should be not more than a 2 page checklist. Making it straightforward and easy to understand will encourage companies to follow the guidelines.&nbsp;

When a country faces a cyber security challenge, its private organizations are also on the radar of hackers. It’s important their infrastructure is also secure.

Important points to be noted:

The security standards defined for private companies should be in checklist form.

<ul>
	<li>Government should reward the organizations that follow these standards. This reward can be in the form of publicly displayable certificates which can be verified on government websites or even some tax rebates.</li>
</ul>

 
The fact that our government is talking about updating our cyber security policy and preparing it for the upcoming innovations means that we’re headed in the right direction. Considering the privacy concerns and data at stake, information security is not a luxury but a necessity. Having a strong cyber security policy means that the government is not only looking out for the data of its citizens but also inspiring confidence so that foreign companies choose India over other nations for their expansion.

I strongly believe that countries having a strong cyber security policy that can be implemented neatly will have a massive advantage on all fronts in years to come.

By Shikhil Sharma Cyberspace security has become the need of the hour as companies increasingly switch to digital business models. Cyber security hasbecome a common concern (and term) in the boardroom meetings.

By Shikhil Sharma Cyberspace security has become the need of the hour as companies increasingly switch to digital business models. Cyber security hasbecome a common concern (and term) in the boardroom meetings. With an active rise in the interest of cybersecurity and having an on ground view of the threats we face as a nation - I think the following 5 points should be included in our new cyber security policy, with a revision every 2-3 years 1. State-sponsored threat retaliation strategy One of the biggest threats a nation faces is state-sponsored targeted threats from other nations. Quite recently, Australia became victim of a state-sponsored attack. In such attacks government infrastructure, private infrastructure and citizens are targeted at the same time in a series of cyber attacks. This Advansed Persistent Threat (APT) is something which poses a big challenge. Truth be told, just having a policy to tackle state sponsored APT won’t be enough. The policy needs to define a ‘retaliation’ action plan too. Important points to be noted: The policy should define or make a provision to define an ‘action plan’ in case of a state sponsored attack. Containing the APT won’t be enough. There needs to be a clear ‘trapping’ plan to have enough data on the origin of the APT or state sponsored threat. A retaliation plan should also be in place if need arises to fend off the enemy. These plans need to have a clear flow from policy to a government department executing it. ‘Mock drills’ for such scenarios need to be done. 2. SOS lockdown policy When a cyber attack happens, there can be a mass disruption in services/infrastructure. There needs to be a clear nationwide lockdown policy for key infrastructure of the nation. We are talking about nuclear grids, power grids, financial institutions, satellite communication etc. Whenever a nation wide security incident/attack happens, it’s often well thought out and planned for months if not years. In such cases, the bad actors know which components to target first. This makes it important to have a lockdown policy to ensure critical infrastructure is protected during such time and damage is controlled. Important points to be noted: SOS lockdown policy should not be made public fully as that might give enemy the information. The lockdown policy will require cyber security specialists to be deployed or trained in each of the critical sectors. 3. Security framework for 5G & iOT devices With 5G setting foot, the rise of iOT devices is inevitable. This means more devices connected to the internet and each other. This also means ‘smart’ being appended to everything we can think of. This calls for a security standard to be defined for all the 5G devices coming to the market. The best case would be the government defining security standards of these new internet connected devices with the help of security companies. Also Read : Now, EU imposes cyberattack sanctions on Chinese nationals linked to Chinese intelligence agency Important points to be noted: A clearly defined certification or ‘standard’ needs to be put out for iOT devices. Government or government authorized departments/companies should ensure these newly entering iOT devices meet privacy requirements and security standards ensuring private data of citizens isn’t at risk. These are the devices which will be kept at our homes, in our cars & bedrooms - the privacy risks can be un-imaginable. One cannot take any risk with this one. × 4. Nationwide cyber security training India has the responsibility of bringing 600 million+ population to the internet ‘safely’. It should also be ensured that current population already on the internet (over 700 million) is security conscious. Important points to be noted: ‘We are as strong as our weakest link’, our training programs should be built with this principle in mind. When it comes to cyber security, even in most tech savvy organizations, humans have been found to be the weakest links. This nationwide training has to be done in a way that less savvy people understand at least basic do’s and don'ts of the internet Our banks have been largely successful in raising awareness around banking frauds. It’s always a work in progress, but in today’s world more people understand that they don’t have to give their online banking password, CVV or any other sensitive information to anyone, even if the other person claims to be a bank official. Such awareness will definitely meet a certain threshold of cyber security. Ofcourse, such models are constantly evolving. Training over SMS, IVR and emails need to be made at a mass scale, in a way the common man understands. 5. Enforcing security standards on private companies & rewarding The nation should have a cyber security standard defined for every private company. Every company uses emails for communication and has a website even if it is not an internet business. The government should clearly define what is expected of private companies when it comes to cyber security and what are the consequences of not meeting the expectations. Ideally, this should be not more than a 2 page checklist. Making it straightforward and easy to understand will encourage companies to follow the guidelines. When a country faces a cyber security challenge, its private organizations are also on the radar of hackers. It’s important their infrastructure is also secure. Important points to be noted: The security standards defined for private companies should be in checklist form. Government should reward the organizations that follow these standards. This reward can be in the form of publicly displayable certificates which can be verified on government websites or even some tax rebates. The fact that our government is talking about updating our cyber security policy and preparing it for the upcoming innovations means that we’re headed in the right direction. Considering the privacy concerns and data at stake, information security is not a luxury but a necessity. Having a strong cyber security policy means that the government is not only looking out for the data of its citizens but also inspiring confidence so that foreign companies choose India over other nations for their expansion. I strongly believe that countries having a strong cyber security policy that can be implemented neatly will have a massive advantage on all fronts in years to come.

5 essential points that should make it to India’s new cyber security policy

At least 19 people have been killed in various rain-related incidents in Karachi on Thursday, as per officials. However, the overall toll due to the monsoon stood at 30.According to Dawn, meteorological officials state that the rainfall in August has have broken an 89-year-old record with 484mm of rainfall over the last month.

The meteorological department further said Karachi has received 223.5 mm of rainfall in just 12 hours on Thursday alone, making it the highest amount of rain recorded in the city.Due to the floods, a 30-year-old man was electrocuted to death in Landhi area, Edhi services informed. Pakistan Navy had also recovered the body of two persons from Shah Faisal Town and Korangi Crossing areas.

However, the Navy had also rescued 55 people trapped in the areas of Malir and Korangi Crossing while 20 families were stranded in Sammoo Goth were also evacuated.Dawn further reported that an army flood emergency control centre was established in Karachi while the medical camp was set up in the district centre of Gulberg, Liaqatabad and New Karachi for giving medical care, said the Inter-Services Public Relations.

"My government is fully cognizant of the suffering of our people in the wake of the heavy rains, especially the people of Karachi. I am personally monitoring the relief and rescue operations and am in constant contact with Chairman NDMA and Governor Sindh for regular updates," tweeted Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fatf-blacklisting-will-destroy-pakistani-economy-says-imran-khan-323712">FATF blacklisting will destroy Pakistani economy, says Imran Khan</a>

Khan further said he directed the Chairman NDMA (National Disaster Management Authority) "to immediately not only rescue stranded people but also provide emergency medical assistance".

"Have directed Chairman NDMA to immediately not only rescue stranded people, but also provide emergency medical assistance, food &amp; shelter to all those in need. I have also asked NDMA Chairman to ensure restoration of utilities on an emergency basis," he tweeted further.

He said the government has "not abandon the people of Karachi in their time of crisis".

"We will be announcing a plan for a permanent solution to the problems caused by floods by cleaning of nullahs, fixing of the sewage system &amp; resolving the huge challenge of water supply to the people of Karachi. We will not abandon the people of Karachi in their time of crisis," Khan added.

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However, the recently inaugurated Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project in Peshawar city of Pakistan`s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province is facing criticism by the people after the stations got flooded and witnessed water leakages during heavy rains.

Several videos are going viral on social media showing water leakages at the stations.The BRT project is constructed by a consortium led by China Railway 21st Bureau Group and it has witnessed several accidents since its inauguration on August 13.

#BRTFlopProject is now trending on social media as people have been criticising Khan`s government for poor quality construction. The BRT has not only caused traffic jams but incidents like fire at stations, buses and water leakages have occurred since its launch. 
&nbsp;

At least 19 people have been killed in various rain-related incidents in Karachi on Thursday, as per officials. However, the overall toll due to the monsoon stood at 30.

At least 19 people have been killed in various rain-related incidents in Karachi on Thursday, as per officials. However, the overall toll due to the monsoon stood at 30.According to Dawn, meteorological officials state that the rainfall in August has have broken an 89-year-old record with 484mm of rainfall over the last month. The meteorological department further said Karachi has received 223.5 mm of rainfall in just 12 hours on Thursday alone, making it the highest amount of rain recorded in the city.Due to the floods, a 30-year-old man was electrocuted to death in Landhi area, Edhi services informed. Pakistan Navy had also recovered the body of two persons from Shah Faisal Town and Korangi Crossing areas. However, the Navy had also rescued 55 people trapped in the areas of Malir and Korangi Crossing while 20 families were stranded in Sammoo Goth were also evacuated.Dawn further reported that an army flood emergency control centre was established in Karachi while the medical camp was set up in the district centre of Gulberg, Liaqatabad and New Karachi for giving medical care, said the Inter-Services Public Relations. "My government is fully cognizant of the suffering of our people in the wake of the heavy rains, especially the people of Karachi. I am personally monitoring the relief and rescue operations and am in constant contact with Chairman NDMA and Governor Sindh for regular updates," tweeted Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Also Read: FATF blacklisting will destroy Pakistani economy, says Imran Khan Khan further said he directed the Chairman NDMA (National Disaster Management Authority) "to immediately not only rescue stranded people but also provide emergency medical assistance". "Have directed Chairman NDMA to immediately not only rescue stranded people, but also provide emergency medical assistance, food & shelter to all those in need. I have also asked NDMA Chairman to ensure restoration of utilities on an emergency basis," he tweeted further. He said the government has "not abandon the people of Karachi in their time of crisis". "We will be announcing a plan for a permanent solution to the problems caused by floods by cleaning of nullahs, fixing of the sewage system & resolving the huge challenge of water supply to the people of Karachi. We will not abandon the people of Karachi in their time of crisis," Khan added. × However, the recently inaugurated Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project in Peshawar city of Pakistan`s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province is facing criticism by the people after the stations got flooded and witnessed water leakages during heavy rains. Several videos are going viral on social media showing water leakages at the stations.The BRT project is constructed by a consortium led by China Railway 21st Bureau Group and it has witnessed several accidents since its inauguration on August 13. #BRTFlopProject is now trending on social media as people have been criticising Khan`s government for poor quality construction. The BRT has not only caused traffic jams but incidents like fire at stations, buses and water leakages have occurred since its launch.

30 people killed in Karachi floods so far

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe`s signature shock-and-awe `Abenomics` stimulus strategy was already faltering even before his decision on Friday to step down due to health reasons.

That blunt assessment by many Japan observers underlined the daunting political challenge Abe has faced in his efforts to pull the economy out of decades of economic stagnation.

And the coronavirus crisis may have just put the final nail in the coffin to his `three arrows` reform programme as the economy sinks deeper into recession, analysts say.

After sweeping to power in late 2012, Abe deployed his three arrows of Abenomics - large-scale monetary easing, fiscal spending and structural reforms - to reignite the world`s third biggest economy after years of subpar growth and falling prices.

There were some quick-hit successes.

The Bank of Japan`s "bazooka" stimulus programme lifted business sentiment and helped weaken the yen, giving exporters windfall profits that trickled down to wages and new jobs.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-prime-minister-shinzo-abe-resigns-over-health-concerns-323582">Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe resigns over health concerns</a>

Corporate governance reforms drew in huge amounts of overseas money, pushing up foreign ownership of Japan`s listed stocks to a record 31.7% in 2014 from 28% in 2012. It stood at 29.6% in 2019.

"We were able to end 20 years of deflation with the three arrows of Abenomics," the prime minister told a news conference on Friday announcing his resignation, when asked what he thought were his legacies.

But Abe will leave behind a pile of unfinished business for his successor.

"The focus at the moment will be on the coronavirus recovery and controlling the infection, regardless of who will be the next prime minister," said Takeshi Minami, chief economist at Norinchukin Research Institute.

"There has been talk that Abenomics has been having a harmful impact, so I think the focal point will be on suggestions how to make changes to it."

The biggest disappointment for the prime minister, and many Japan observers, is that the third-arrow reforms to reshape an economy hobbled by low productivity, a rapidly ageing population and a rigid labour market, have proved elusive.

"Abenomics has singularly failed to deliver Japan the domestic conditions that would spark higher growth beyond more reliance on external demand," said Brian Kelly, Managing Partner at Asian Century Quest.

PAYING THE PRICE

Now, Japan is paying the price as COVID-19 wipes out the short-term benefits brought by Abenomics, such as an inbound tourism boom, reflated growth and rising job availability.

Abe`s failure to entice companies to spend more on capital expenditure has given Japan Inc a huge cash-pile that served as a liquidity buffer to weather the pandemic`s shock.

But the experience may give firms an excuse to keep hoarding cash rather than spend on new business opportunities, which could stifle innovation and weigh on Japan`s potential growth - factors Abe was focussed on addressing through the third arrow.

"COVID-19 may have reassured corporate executives that cash is indeed king," said Hideo Hayakawa, a senior fellow at the Tokyo Foundation for Policy Research. "My fear is that companies may feel even more inclined to save rather than spend."

Social distancing policies and other business constrains to contain the virus may cripple potential growth - already low due to slow progress in deregulating highly-protected medical and agriculture industries, and accepting more foreign workers to address chronic labour shortages.

Japan`s potential growth rate, which used to exceed 4% in the 1980s, slid near zero last year from around 1% before Abenomics began, according to BOJ estimates.

"Structural reform, or the third arrow, has been the declaring failure of Abenomics," said Samuel Tombs, chief U.K. economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics.

"Even the government`s signature immigration reform last year was much ado about nothing, in practice."

DEFLATIONARY MINDSET

COVID-19 also dashed a grand experiment of Abenomics that aimed to turn around Japan`s "deflationary mindset," in which companies and households hold off on spending on expectations that low growth and wages will persist.

The economy stumbled to a record contraction in the second quarter that shrank nominal gross domestic product (GDP) to 507 trillion yen ($4.8 trillion), around levels marked in 2013 and far distant from Abe`s 600-trillion-yen target.

"Japan`s economy may have performed better after Abenomics, but not enough to change public sentiment dramatically," said Yoshiki Shinke, chief economist at Dai-ichi Life Research Institute.

"With the pandemic, we`ll likely see growth fall further. With many legacies of Abenomics wiped out, we know now there was no magic wand to fix Japan`s chronic woes," he said.

Moreover, with the BOJ having exhausted its tool-kit to achieve its elusive 2% inflation target, policymakers face the challenge of seeking to revive the economy with a dearth of ammunition.

Japan`s huge debt also limits room for big fiscal spending, which may keep any economic recovery weak, analysts say.

"Japan failed to normalise monetary and fiscal policies when the economy was in better shape," said former BOJ board member Takahide Kiuchi. "Now, it`s paying the price." ($1 = 106.6900 yen) 
&nbsp;

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe`s signature shock-and-awe `Abenomics` stimulus strategy was already faltering even before his decision on Friday to step down due to health reasons.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe`s signature shock-and-awe `Abenomics` stimulus strategy was already faltering even before his decision on Friday to step down due to health reasons. That blunt assessment by many Japan observers underlined the daunting political challenge Abe has faced in his efforts to pull the economy out of decades of economic stagnation. And the coronavirus crisis may have just put the final nail in the coffin to his `three arrows` reform programme as the economy sinks deeper into recession, analysts say. After sweeping to power in late 2012, Abe deployed his three arrows of Abenomics - large-scale monetary easing, fiscal spending and structural reforms - to reignite the world`s third biggest economy after years of subpar growth and falling prices. There were some quick-hit successes. The Bank of Japan`s "bazooka" stimulus programme lifted business sentiment and helped weaken the yen, giving exporters windfall profits that trickled down to wages and new jobs. Also Read: Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe resigns over health concerns Corporate governance reforms drew in huge amounts of overseas money, pushing up foreign ownership of Japan`s listed stocks to a record 31.7% in 2014 from 28% in 2012. It stood at 29.6% in 2019. "We were able to end 20 years of deflation with the three arrows of Abenomics," the prime minister told a news conference on Friday announcing his resignation, when asked what he thought were his legacies. But Abe will leave behind a pile of unfinished business for his successor. "The focus at the moment will be on the coronavirus recovery and controlling the infection, regardless of who will be the next prime minister," said Takeshi Minami, chief economist at Norinchukin Research Institute. "There has been talk that Abenomics has been having a harmful impact, so I think the focal point will be on suggestions how to make changes to it." The biggest disappointment for the prime minister, and many Japan observers, is that the third-arrow reforms to reshape an economy hobbled by low productivity, a rapidly ageing population and a rigid labour market, have proved elusive. "Abenomics has singularly failed to deliver Japan the domestic conditions that would spark higher growth beyond more reliance on external demand," said Brian Kelly, Managing Partner at Asian Century Quest. PAYING THE PRICE Now, Japan is paying the price as COVID-19 wipes out the short-term benefits brought by Abenomics, such as an inbound tourism boom, reflated growth and rising job availability. Abe`s failure to entice companies to spend more on capital expenditure has given Japan Inc a huge cash-pile that served as a liquidity buffer to weather the pandemic`s shock. But the experience may give firms an excuse to keep hoarding cash rather than spend on new business opportunities, which could stifle innovation and weigh on Japan`s potential growth - factors Abe was focussed on addressing through the third arrow. "COVID-19 may have reassured corporate executives that cash is indeed king," said Hideo Hayakawa, a senior fellow at the Tokyo Foundation for Policy Research. "My fear is that companies may feel even more inclined to save rather than spend." Social distancing policies and other business constrains to contain the virus may cripple potential growth - already low due to slow progress in deregulating highly-protected medical and agriculture industries, and accepting more foreign workers to address chronic labour shortages. Japan`s potential growth rate, which used to exceed 4% in the 1980s, slid near zero last year from around 1% before Abenomics began, according to BOJ estimates. "Structural reform, or the third arrow, has been the declaring failure of Abenomics," said Samuel Tombs, chief U.K. economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics. "Even the government`s signature immigration reform last year was much ado about nothing, in practice." DEFLATIONARY MINDSET COVID-19 also dashed a grand experiment of Abenomics that aimed to turn around Japan`s "deflationary mindset," in which companies and households hold off on spending on expectations that low growth and wages will persist. The economy stumbled to a record contraction in the second quarter that shrank nominal gross domestic product (GDP) to 507 trillion yen ($4.8 trillion), around levels marked in 2013 and far distant from Abe`s 600-trillion-yen target. "Japan`s economy may have performed better after Abenomics, but not enough to change public sentiment dramatically," said Yoshiki Shinke, chief economist at Dai-ichi Life Research Institute. "With the pandemic, we`ll likely see growth fall further. With many legacies of Abenomics wiped out, we know now there was no magic wand to fix Japan`s chronic woes," he said. Moreover, with the BOJ having exhausted its tool-kit to achieve its elusive 2% inflation target, policymakers face the challenge of seeking to revive the economy with a dearth of ammunition. Japan`s huge debt also limits room for big fiscal spending, which may keep any economic recovery weak, analysts say. "Japan failed to normalise monetary and fiscal policies when the economy was in better shape," said former BOJ board member Takahide Kiuchi. "Now, it`s paying the price." ($1 = 106.6900 yen)

Abenomics fails to deliver as Japan braces for post-Abe era

The issue of conduct of NEET-JEE exams has found itself in legal tussle. After Supreme Court declined to entertain pleas for postponement of NEET and JEE exams, six ministers of Opposition ruled states have approached the top court for a review. These ministers from states of West Bengal, Punjab, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand have filed a review petition.

The petition, filed through advocate Sunil Fernandes, seeks postponement of exams slated to be held in September in light of coronavirus pandemic.

"Failed to balance the competing but equally important aspects of conducting the examination and securing safety of the student. Fails to ensure that mandatory safeguards are put in place during the conducting of the examinations," said the petition challenging the August 17 order. This has been cited by news agency IANS.

Also Read | <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/tamil-nadu-health-minister-writes-to-union-minister-seeking-cancellation-of-neet-examination-323277">Tamil Nadu Health Minister writes to Union Minister seeking cancellation of NEET Examination</a>

"The advice of `Life Must Go On` may have sounded very philosophical underpinnings but cannot be a substitute for valid legal reasoning and logical analysis of the various aspects involved in the conduct of the NEET (UG) and JEE exams," the petitioners have argued.&nbsp;

The petitioners say that Central Government had ample time to set up at least one exam centre per district to conduct the examinations.

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&nbsp;

"Having at least one centre per district would have minimised the inter-district long travel of the students and thereby reduced the chances of Covid-19 spread," says the petition.

The ministers, who have petitioned the Supreme Court have expressed posibillity of irreparable harm coming to the students as a result of spread of coronavirus. 
&nbsp;

The issue of conduct of NEET-JEE exams has found itself in legal tussle. After Supreme Court declined to entertain pleas for postponement of NEET and JEE exams, six ministers of Opposition ruled states have approached the top court for a review.

The issue of conduct of NEET-JEE exams has found itself in legal tussle. After Supreme Court declined to entertain pleas for postponement of NEET and JEE exams, six ministers of Opposition ruled states have approached the top court for a review. These ministers from states of West Bengal, Punjab, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand have filed a review petition. The petition, filed through advocate Sunil Fernandes, seeks postponement of exams slated to be held in September in light of coronavirus pandemic. "Failed to balance the competing but equally important aspects of conducting the examination and securing safety of the student. Fails to ensure that mandatory safeguards are put in place during the conducting of the examinations," said the petition challenging the August 17 order. This has been cited by news agency IANS. Also Read | Tamil Nadu Health Minister writes to Union Minister seeking cancellation of NEET Examination "The advice of `Life Must Go On` may have sounded very philosophical underpinnings but cannot be a substitute for valid legal reasoning and logical analysis of the various aspects involved in the conduct of the NEET (UG) and JEE exams," the petitioners have argued. The petitioners say that Central Government had ample time to set up at least one exam centre per district to conduct the examinations. × "Having at least one centre per district would have minimised the inter-district long travel of the students and thereby reduced the chances of Covid-19 spread," says the petition. The ministers, who have petitioned the Supreme Court have expressed posibillity of irreparable harm coming to the students as a result of spread of coronavirus.

NEET-JEE exams: 6 ministers of non-BJP ruled states approach SC for review of order

China's Alibaba Group has put on hold plans to invest in Indian companies, two sources aware of the plans told Reuters, amid souring business relations and rising political tension between the two nations after a clash on their Himalayan border.

Alibaba, which has fuelled the growth of several Indian start-ups, will not put in fresh funds to expand its investments in the country for at least six months, the sources said.

However, there are no plans to reduce its stakes or exit investments, they added. The sources declined to be identified as the talks are private.

Alibaba did not respond to a request for comment.

The Chinese conglomerate and its affiliates Alibaba Capital Partners and Ant Group have invested more than $2 billion in Indian companies since 2015 and participated in funding rounds of at least another $1.8 billion, according to data from PitchBook, which tracks private market financing.

Hitting the brakes could slow fundraising plans for some of Alibaba's investee companies in India, which include payments platform Paytm, restaurant aggregator and food delivery service Zomato, and e-grocer BigBasket.

Ant Group, which is preparing for an IPO, on Tuesday called out the challenges it faces in India.

In its IPO filing, Ant said a change in foreign investment rules in India had led to a "further evaluation of the timing" of its additional investment in Zomato.

Ant also said it counted Paytm owner One97 Communications, in which it has a 30% stake, as an associate or joint venture partner over which it has "significant influence".

India, in April, put investments from China and other bordering countries under greater scrutiny to prevent opportunistic takeovers amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

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&nbsp;

However, a border clash in June, in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, escalated tensions, and India imposed stricter curbs on Chinese goods and businesses amid calls for boycotts.

"Alibaba and a few others have put on hold their India investment plans for six months and they are hoping that things would cool off a bit after that," said one of the sources.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/in-a-move-aimed-at-placating-trump-alibaba-claims-to-support-us-businesses-322114">In a move aimed at placating Trump, Alibaba claims to support US businesses</a>

"No one is planning to put their stakes in Indian ventures on the block given the market condition and the fact that there aren't many buyers," the person said.

Indian start-ups are heavily funded by Chinese investors such as Alibaba and Tencent &lt;0700.HK&gt;. Bankers have previously said they were looking to bolster their presence in the country with an aim to grow their revenues outside China.

There is a lot of interest from European and U.S.-based investors to fill the gap left by the Chinese, said Arjun Sinha, partner at Indian law firm, AP &amp; Partners.

"Deal making, however, may take slightly longer as these will be new relationships as opposed to further funding rounds," said Sinha.

China's Alibaba Group has put on hold plans to invest in Indian companies, two sources aware of the plans told Reuters, amid souring business relations and rising political tension between the two nations after a clash on their Himalayan border.

China's Alibaba Group has put on hold plans to invest in Indian companies, two sources aware of the plans told Reuters, amid souring business relations and rising political tension between the two nations after a clash on their Himalayan border. Alibaba, which has fuelled the growth of several Indian start-ups, will not put in fresh funds to expand its investments in the country for at least six months, the sources said. However, there are no plans to reduce its stakes or exit investments, they added. The sources declined to be identified as the talks are private. Alibaba did not respond to a request for comment. The Chinese conglomerate and its affiliates Alibaba Capital Partners and Ant Group have invested more than $2 billion in Indian companies since 2015 and participated in funding rounds of at least another $1.8 billion, according to data from PitchBook, which tracks private market financing. Hitting the brakes could slow fundraising plans for some of Alibaba's investee companies in India, which include payments platform Paytm, restaurant aggregator and food delivery service Zomato, and e-grocer BigBasket. Ant Group, which is preparing for an IPO, on Tuesday called out the challenges it faces in India. In its IPO filing, Ant said a change in foreign investment rules in India had led to a "further evaluation of the timing" of its additional investment in Zomato. Ant also said it counted Paytm owner One97 Communications, in which it has a 30% stake, as an associate or joint venture partner over which it has "significant influence". India, in April, put investments from China and other bordering countries under greater scrutiny to prevent opportunistic takeovers amid the COVID-19 pandemic. × However, a border clash in June, in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, escalated tensions, and India imposed stricter curbs on Chinese goods and businesses amid calls for boycotts. "Alibaba and a few others have put on hold their India investment plans for six months and they are hoping that things would cool off a bit after that," said one of the sources. Also Read: In a move aimed at placating Trump, Alibaba claims to support US businesses "No one is planning to put their stakes in Indian ventures on the block given the market condition and the fact that there aren't many buyers," the person said. Indian start-ups are heavily funded by Chinese investors such as Alibaba and Tencent <0700.HK>. Bankers have previously said they were looking to bolster their presence in the country with an aim to grow their revenues outside China. There is a lot of interest from European and U.S.-based investors to fill the gap left by the Chinese, said Arjun Sinha, partner at Indian law firm, AP & Partners. "Deal making, however, may take slightly longer as these will be new relationships as opposed to further funding rounds," said Sinha.

Alibaba puts India investment plan on hold amid China tensions - Sources

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