Family members of a 25-year-old Indian student hailing from Telangana's Hyderabad&nbsp;urged the External Affairs Ministry to find their son after he reportedly went missing from the Cleveland area of the United States and a ransom call was made to them.

Mohammed Abdul Arafat, originally from Nacharam, embarked on his educational journey to the US in May 2023 to pursue a Master's degree in IT from Cleveland University.

While residing in Cleveland, Abdul maintained contact with his family until abruptly ceasing communication on March 7, with his phone subsequently being switched off.

His father Mohd Saleem stated that almost ten days after his son went missing, the family received a phone call where the callers alleged that Abdul was abducted and demanded a ransom of USD 1,200 for his release.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/badaun-double-murder-police-arrests-second-accused-javed-a-day-after-gruesome-killing-702548">Badaun double murder: Police arrest second accused, autopsy reveals 23 stab wounds</a>

"My son went to the US on May 23 for his master's. He was doing fine and was talking to me every day. After March 7, we didn't talk. We tried calling, but the phone was off. Later, we called our brother and asked him to see. As my son was not at the location, they went and filed a missing complaint. After 10 days, we got a call on WhatsApp, that your son was kidnapped and asked for a USD 1200 ransom. I urge the state government and central government to find my son," Saleem said.

Abdul's uncle, who also resides in the United States, filed a missing person complaint with the police, according to news agency ANI.

Saleem went to Nacharam police station on Thursday (Mar 21) and briefed police about the incident urging assistance in the matter. He also called on the state and central government to help the family find their son.&nbsp;

In his letter to the External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, Saleem requested help from the Indian Embassy in Washington, DC,&nbsp;and the Indian Consulate in Chicago,&nbsp;to help locate the whereabouts of his son.

(With inputs from agencies)

Family members of a 25-year-old Indian student hailing from Telangana's Hyderabad urged the External Affairs Ministry to find their son after he reportedly went missing from the Cleveland area of the United States and a ransom call was made to them.

Family members of a 25-year-old Indian student hailing from Telangana's Hyderabad urged the External Affairs Ministry to find their son after he reportedly went missing from the Cleveland area of the United States and a ransom call was made to them. Mohammed Abdul Arafat, originally from Nacharam, embarked on his educational journey to the US in May 2023 to pursue a Master's degree in IT from Cleveland University. While residing in Cleveland, Abdul maintained contact with his family until abruptly ceasing communication on March 7, with his phone subsequently being switched off. His father Mohd Saleem stated that almost ten days after his son went missing, the family received a phone call where the callers alleged that Abdul was abducted and demanded a ransom of USD 1,200 for his release. Also read: Badaun double murder: Police arrest second accused, autopsy reveals 23 stab wounds "My son went to the US on May 23 for his master's. He was doing fine and was talking to me every day. After March 7, we didn't talk. We tried calling, but the phone was off. Later, we called our brother and asked him to see. As my son was not at the location, they went and filed a missing complaint. After 10 days, we got a call on WhatsApp, that your son was kidnapped and asked for a USD 1200 ransom. I urge the state government and central government to find my son," Saleem said. Abdul's uncle, who also resides in the United States, filed a missing person complaint with the police, according to news agency ANI. Saleem went to Nacharam police station on Thursday (Mar 21) and briefed police about the incident urging assistance in the matter. He also called on the state and central government to help the family find their son. In his letter to the External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, Saleem requested help from the Indian Embassy in Washington, DC, and the Indian Consulate in Chicago, to help locate the whereabouts of his son. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian student goes missing in US, family seeks govt's help after getting ransom call

US President Joe Biden announced Thursday that $6 billion in student loans would be canceled for 78,000 borrowers, bringing his administration's total student debt cancellation to nearly $150 billion.

Biden, a Democrat, last year pledged to find other avenues for tackling debt relief after the Supreme Court in June blocked his broader plan to cancel $430 billion in student loan debt.

The latest group includes public service workers, like teachers, nurses and firefighters, who qualify under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program created in 2007 to forgive student debt for Americans who go into public service.

"These public service workers have dedicated their careers to serving their communities, but because of past administrative failures, never got the relief they were entitled to under the law," Biden said in a statement.

As of June 2023, about 43.4 million U.S. student loan recipients had $1.63 trillion in outstanding loans, according to the Federal Student Aid website. Higher education debt has tripled since the 2008 financial crisis.

Steep interest and hefty payments on these loans mean younger Americans struggle to buy homes or make other investments, and Democrats have pushed for U.S. government forgiveness for years. Republicans largely oppose such actions.

Biden is seeking re-election in November and needs the youth vote to help him win.

"I won’t back down from using every tool at my disposal to deliver student debt relief to more Americans, and build an economy from the middle out and bottom up," Biden said.

A White House official said Biden's latest move brought the total amount of debt cancellation under the Biden administration to $144 billion for nearly 4 million Americans.

US President Joe Biden announced Thursday that $6 billion in student loans would be canceled for 78,000 borrowers, bringing his administration's total student debt cancellation to nearly $150 billion.

US President Joe Biden announced Thursday that $6 billion in student loans would be canceled for 78,000 borrowers, bringing his administration's total student debt cancellation to nearly $150 billion. Biden, a Democrat, last year pledged to find other avenues for tackling debt relief after the Supreme Court in June blocked his broader plan to cancel $430 billion in student loan debt. The latest group includes public service workers, like teachers, nurses and firefighters, who qualify under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program created in 2007 to forgive student debt for Americans who go into public service. "These public service workers have dedicated their careers to serving their communities, but because of past administrative failures, never got the relief they were entitled to under the law," Biden said in a statement. As of June 2023, about 43.4 million U.S. student loan recipients had $1.63 trillion in outstanding loans, according to the Federal Student Aid website. Higher education debt has tripled since the 2008 financial crisis. Steep interest and hefty payments on these loans mean younger Americans struggle to buy homes or make other investments, and Democrats have pushed for U.S. government forgiveness for years. Republicans largely oppose such actions. Biden is seeking re-election in November and needs the youth vote to help him win. "I won’t back down from using every tool at my disposal to deliver student debt relief to more Americans, and build an economy from the middle out and bottom up," Biden said. A White House official said Biden's latest move brought the total amount of debt cancellation under the Biden administration to $144 billion for nearly 4 million Americans.

Biden cancels $6 billion in student loan debt for 78,000 public service workers

Donald Trump failed to secure a bond that would have allowed him to appeal a $454 million judgment against him in a New York civil fraud case without depositing the entire sum, his attorneys said on Monday (Mar 18).

The former US president needs to either come up with the money or post a bond in order to keep the state's authorities from seizing his properties as he appeals Justice Arthur Engoron's judgement from Feb 16 that ordered him and co-defendants to pay $464 million in penalties and interest for misstating property values to deceive lenders and insurers.

The Republican presidential candidate's attorneys argued that the judgment's sum was excessive and asked a mid-level state appeals court to postpone its execution in a court filing on Monday.

They stated that obtaining a total appeal bail would "effectively" require "cash reserves approaching $1 billion" and that doing so was "impossible."

They added that so far the defendants had approached 30 surety companies through four separate brokers in order to obtain a bond.

"Enforcing an impossible bond requirement as a condition of appeal would inflict manifest irreparable injury on Defendants," Trump's lawyers wrote.

The lawyers urged that instead, Trump be allowed to post a $100 million bond while he appeals the judgment.&nbsp;

If Trump loses his appeal and it turns out that he cannot afford the money, a bonding company would be responsible for any payout.

Trump's attorneys included a declaration from Gary Giulietti, an executive of the insurance brokerage firm the Lockton Companies, which Trump has hired in order to help him obtain a bond.

Giulietti in his statement wrote that a bond for the entire $464 million "is not possible under the circumstances presented." He also pointed out that many sureties would not issue bonds above $100 million and would only accept cash or securities as collateral, and not real estate.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-appeals-e-jean-carrolls-833-million-verdict-in-defamation-case-698197">Also read: Donald Trump appeals $83.3mn award to E Jean Carroll in defamation case</a>

<h2>The judgment&nbsp;</h2>

The order by Judge Engoron has barred Trump and his sons from conducting business in New York: Trump for three years and his sons for two.

The former US president has also been barred from applying for loans from any New York chartered or registered financial institution during this period.

"Their complete lack of contrition and remorse borders on pathological," Engoron said of Trump and his two sons during the hearing.&nbsp;

Trump has denied any wrongdoing in the case.

Earlier this month, the former US President posted a $91.6 million bond to cover an $83.3 million defamation verdict for the writer E. Jean Carroll case who accused Trump of raping her decades ago.

(With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump failed to secure a bond that would have allowed him to appeal a $454 million judgment against him in a New York civil fraud case without depositing the entire sum, his attorneys said on Monday (Mar 18).

Donald Trump failed to secure a bond that would have allowed him to appeal a $454 million judgment against him in a New York civil fraud case without depositing the entire sum, his attorneys said on Monday (Mar 18). The former US president needs to either come up with the money or post a bond in order to keep the state's authorities from seizing his properties as he appeals Justice Arthur Engoron's judgement from Feb 16 that ordered him and co-defendants to pay $464 million in penalties and interest for misstating property values to deceive lenders and insurers. The Republican presidential candidate's attorneys argued that the judgment's sum was excessive and asked a mid-level state appeals court to postpone its execution in a court filing on Monday. They stated that obtaining a total appeal bail would "effectively" require "cash reserves approaching $1 billion" and that doing so was "impossible." They added that so far the defendants had approached 30 surety companies through four separate brokers in order to obtain a bond. "Enforcing an impossible bond requirement as a condition of appeal would inflict manifest irreparable injury on Defendants," Trump's lawyers wrote. The lawyers urged that instead, Trump be allowed to post a $100 million bond while he appeals the judgment. If Trump loses his appeal and it turns out that he cannot afford the money, a bonding company would be responsible for any payout. Trump's attorneys included a declaration from Gary Giulietti, an executive of the insurance brokerage firm the Lockton Companies, which Trump has hired in order to help him obtain a bond. Giulietti in his statement wrote that a bond for the entire $464 million "is not possible under the circumstances presented." He also pointed out that many sureties would not issue bonds above $100 million and would only accept cash or securities as collateral, and not real estate. Also read: Donald Trump appeals $83.3mn award to E Jean Carroll in defamation case The judgment The order by Judge Engoron has barred Trump and his sons from conducting business in New York: Trump for three years and his sons for two. The former US president has also been barred from applying for loans from any New York chartered or registered financial institution during this period. "Their complete lack of contrition and remorse borders on pathological," Engoron said of Trump and his two sons during the hearing. Trump has denied any wrongdoing in the case. Earlier this month, the former US President posted a $91.6 million bond to cover an $83.3 million defamation verdict for the writer E. Jean Carroll case who accused Trump of raping her decades ago. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump fails to secure $454 million bond in New York fraud case, say his lawyers

The Gurugram Police in India's north-Indian state of Haryana arrested a man who allegedly killed his live-in partner after she refused to prepare egg curry for him.

The incident came to light after the woman's dead body was spotted in an under-construction building in Chauma village, the authorities said on Saturday (Mar 16).

The accused, identified as Lallan Yadav, aged 35, during police interrogation, admitted to having killed his partner under the influence of alcohol.

The police said that the man resorted to violence and hit his partner with a belt and hammer after the deceased, identified as Anjali, aged 32, refused to make egg curry.

Lallan Yadav, a native of Aurahi village in Bihar's Madhepura district, was arrested by a team of Palam Vihar Police Station from Delhi's Sarai Kale Khan area after the caretaker of the building filed a police complaint on spotting the body.

Anjali, a ragpicker, was found dead on Wednesday in the under-construction house in Chauma.

The police, as per news agency PTI reports, said that both Yadav and Anjali were brought to the site on March 10 from the Gurugram bus stand.

When hiring the two, Yadav and Anjali did not disclose their correct names, addresses, and IDs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-india-shopkeeper-attacked-alleges-asked-to-stop-bhajan-for-azaan-701539">India shopkeeper attacked in Bengaluru, alleges ‘asked to stop bhajan for azaan’</a>

Yadav had introduced Anjali to the homeowners as his wife.

During his questioning with the police, he revealed that his wife had succumbed to a snake bite nearly six years ago, after which he moved to Delhi.

He then said that he met Anjali about seven months ago and started living with her while the two worked as labourers, said the police.

"After killing her, he fled. We have recovered the hammer and belt which were used in the murder and are questioning the accused," Naveen Kumar, ACP, Palam Vihar, said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Gurugram Police in India's north-Indian state of Haryana arrested a man who allegedly killed his live-in partner after she refused to prepare egg curry for him.

The Gurugram Police in India's north-Indian state of Haryana arrested a man who allegedly killed his live-in partner after she refused to prepare egg curry for him. The incident came to light after the woman's dead body was spotted in an under-construction building in Chauma village, the authorities said on Saturday (Mar 16). The accused, identified as Lallan Yadav, aged 35, during police interrogation, admitted to having killed his partner under the influence of alcohol. The police said that the man resorted to violence and hit his partner with a belt and hammer after the deceased, identified as Anjali, aged 32, refused to make egg curry. Lallan Yadav, a native of Aurahi village in Bihar's Madhepura district, was arrested by a team of Palam Vihar Police Station from Delhi's Sarai Kale Khan area after the caretaker of the building filed a police complaint on spotting the body. Anjali, a ragpicker, was found dead on Wednesday in the under-construction house in Chauma. The police, as per news agency PTI reports, said that both Yadav and Anjali were brought to the site on March 10 from the Gurugram bus stand. When hiring the two, Yadav and Anjali did not disclose their correct names, addresses, and IDs. Also read: India shopkeeper attacked in Bengaluru, alleges ‘asked to stop bhajan for azaan’ Yadav had introduced Anjali to the homeowners as his wife. During his questioning with the police, he revealed that his wife had succumbed to a snake bite nearly six years ago, after which he moved to Delhi. He then said that he met Anjali about seven months ago and started living with her while the two worked as labourers, said the police. "After killing her, he fled. We have recovered the hammer and belt which were used in the murder and are questioning the accused," Naveen Kumar, ACP, Palam Vihar, said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Man thrashes live-in partner to death over refusing to make egg curry

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Mar 18) slammed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his 'Shakti' remark stating that the grand old party and INDIA bloc were trying to challenge the concept of 'Nari Shakti'.

While addressing a public meeting in Shivamogga, PM Modi said, "Yesterday an announcement to destroy Shakti was made from Shivaji Park (in Mumbai). How much it must have hurt the soul of Balasaheb Thackeray. Nari Shakti ka yahi aashirvad mera sabse bada kawach hai (Blessings of Nari Shaki is my biggest security shield). No other government has given so much focus to Nari Shakti since Independence."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Shivamogga, Karnataka: PM Narendra Modi says, "Yesterday an announcement to destroy Shakti was made from Shivaji Park (in Mumbai). How much it must have hurt the soul of Balasaheb Thackeray... Nari Shakti ka yahi aashirvad mera sabse bada kawach hai...The people of the… <a href="https://t.co/BoFDzgeYW7">pic.twitter.com/BoFDzgeYW7</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1769675670572122208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Stating that every mother and daughter is a form of ‘shakti’ in India he said that Gandhi's&nbsp;remark was an attack on the women of the country and also accused the INDIA bloc of disliking the rise of 'Nari Shakti' or 'woman&nbsp;power'.

"The people of the INDI alliance want to destroy this Shakti. They hate the increasing shakti of Maa Bharti. An attack on Shakti means an attack on women, daughters, Maa Bharti. INDI alliance and Congress has challenged this Shakti, our daughters, and women of this country will give them a befitting reply on June 4," he said.

He also denounced former Maharashtra Chief Minister and Bal Thackeray's son Uddhav Thackeray, who was present along with Gandhi when he made the remark.

“And who were there on the dais? What would be happening to Bal Thackeray's soul?” PM Modi said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-modi-responds-to-rahuls-shakti-remark-jaan-ki-baazi-laga-dunga-701404">Lok Sabha elections 2024: Modi responds to Rahul’s ‘Shakti’ remark: ‘Jaan ki baazi laga dunga’</a>

<h2>'Modi ji twisting 'Shakti' remark', alleged Gandhi</h2>

Gandhi, on Monday, issuing a clarification over his remarks after severe backlash, said that PM Modi was “twisting" his remarks.

“Modi ji does not like my words, he always tries to change their meaning by twisting them in some way or the other because he knows that I have spoken a deep truth. The Shakti that I mentioned, the Shakti that we are fighting, is the mask of that power, Modi ji," Rahul Gandhi said in a long post on X.

The Congress leader invited sharp criticism after he criticised the ruling BJP and Prime Minister Modi on multiple fronts, including allegations of tampering with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), during his address in Mumbai at the closing ceremony of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra.

“There is a word 'Shakti' (might) in Hinduism. We are fighting against a Shakti (might of the state). The question is, what is that Shakti and what does it entail for us? The soul and integrity of EVMs have been traded to the King (Modi). This is a fact. Not just EVMs but every autonomous institution of the country, be it the ED, CBI or Income Tax department, have traded their spines to the Centre," Gandhi said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Mar 18) slammed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his 'Shakti' remark stating that the grand old party and INDIA bloc were trying to challenge the concept of 'Nari Shakti'.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Mar 18) slammed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his 'Shakti' remark stating that the grand old party and INDIA bloc were trying to challenge the concept of 'Nari Shakti'. While addressing a public meeting in Shivamogga, PM Modi said, "Yesterday an announcement to destroy Shakti was made from Shivaji Park (in Mumbai). How much it must have hurt the soul of Balasaheb Thackeray. Nari Shakti ka yahi aashirvad mera sabse bada kawach hai (Blessings of Nari Shaki is my biggest security shield). No other government has given so much focus to Nari Shakti since Independence." #WATCH | Shivamogga, Karnataka: PM Narendra Modi says, "Yesterday an announcement to destroy Shakti was made from Shivaji Park (in Mumbai). How much it must have hurt the soul of Balasaheb Thackeray... Nari Shakti ka yahi aashirvad mera sabse bada kawach hai...The people of the… pic.twitter.com/BoFDzgeYW7 — ANI (@ANI) March 18, 2024 × Stating that every mother and daughter is a form of ‘shakti’ in India he said that Gandhi's remark was an attack on the women of the country and also accused the INDIA bloc of disliking the rise of 'Nari Shakti' or 'woman power'. "The people of the INDI alliance want to destroy this Shakti. They hate the increasing shakti of Maa Bharti. An attack on Shakti means an attack on women, daughters, Maa Bharti. INDI alliance and Congress has challenged this Shakti, our daughters, and women of this country will give them a befitting reply on June 4," he said. He also denounced former Maharashtra Chief Minister and Bal Thackeray's son Uddhav Thackeray, who was present along with Gandhi when he made the remark. “And who were there on the dais? What would be happening to Bal Thackeray's soul?” PM Modi said. Also read: Lok Sabha elections 2024: Modi responds to Rahul’s ‘Shakti’ remark: ‘Jaan ki baazi laga dunga’ 'Modi ji twisting 'Shakti' remark', alleged Gandhi Gandhi, on Monday, issuing a clarification over his remarks after severe backlash, said that PM Modi was “twisting" his remarks. “Modi ji does not like my words, he always tries to change their meaning by twisting them in some way or the other because he knows that I have spoken a deep truth. The Shakti that I mentioned, the Shakti that we are fighting, is the mask of that power, Modi ji," Rahul Gandhi said in a long post on X. The Congress leader invited sharp criticism after he criticised the ruling BJP and Prime Minister Modi on multiple fronts, including allegations of tampering with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), during his address in Mumbai at the closing ceremony of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. “There is a word 'Shakti' (might) in Hinduism. We are fighting against a Shakti (might of the state). The question is, what is that Shakti and what does it entail for us? The soul and integrity of EVMs have been traded to the King (Modi). This is a fact. Not just EVMs but every autonomous institution of the country, be it the ED, CBI or Income Tax department, have traded their spines to the Centre," Gandhi said. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi says Congress seeking to destroy 'Nari Shakti'; Rahul Gandhi accuses Modi of twisting remark

A United States government research team probing a group of federal employees claiming symptoms of the "Havana syndrome" ailment that first emerged in 2016 did not find any conclusive evidence of brain injury, according to a study published in a medical journal on Monday (Mar 18).

Researchers from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) also discovered no changes in most clinical measures between a set of 86 employees and their adult family members reporting unexpected health events and a matched group of healthy volunteers who had similar work assignments.

Symptoms of the enigmatic ailment were for the very first time reported by United States embassy officials in Havana, Cuba, later affecting diplomats, spies, and other personnel across the globe.

These included hearing noise and experiencing head pressure followed by headaches, migraines, dizziness, and memory lapses.

"These individuals have symptoms that are real, distressing and very difficult to treat," Dr Leighton Chan, NIH Clinical Center acting chief scientific officer and lead study author, said according to news agency Reuters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-ballistic-missiles-toward-sea-of-japan-as-blinken-attends-seoul-summit-701275">North Korea fires ballistic missiles towards Sea of Japan as Blinken attends key Seoul summit</a>

The participants of the study included military personnel stationed in China, Vienna, Cuba, and the United States. They undertook a battery of tests including clinical, auditory, balance, visual, neuropsychological and blood testing.

They also additionally received various types of MRI scans aimed at examining the volume, structure and function of the brain.

Researchers at the NIH did discover that over 25 per cent&nbsp;of patients who reported symptoms went on to acquire persistent postural-perceptual dizziness, a chronic illness. They also reported noticeably higher levels of fatigue, post-traumatic stress and depression as compared to the control group.

The results of the MRI brain imaging study "should be some reassurance for patients," said Louis French, the study's investigator and deputy director of the National Intrepid Center of Excellence at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, as he said that the researchers did not find a correlation between odd symptoms and neurodegenerative changes.

“The post-traumatic stress and mood symptoms reported are not surprising given the ongoing concerns of many of the participants,” he said.

The US State Department on Monday (Mar 18) said that it was reviewing the NIH report and that Secretary of State Antony Blinken's primary concern with regard to&nbsp;what the department calls anomalous health incidents (AHI) was the health, safety and security of personnel and family members.

"The Secretary remains resolute in ensuring that the Department does everything possible to ensure employees and family members who report an AHI are treated with respect and compassion and receive timely access to medical care and all benefits to which they are entitled," a spokesperson said by email.

(With inputs from agencies)

A United States government research team probing a group of federal employees claiming symptoms of the "Havana syndrome" ailment that first emerged in 2016 did not find any conclusive evidence of brain injury, according to a study published in a medical journal on Monday (Mar 18).

A United States government research team probing a group of federal employees claiming symptoms of the "Havana syndrome" ailment that first emerged in 2016 did not find any conclusive evidence of brain injury, according to a study published in a medical journal on Monday (Mar 18). Researchers from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) also discovered no changes in most clinical measures between a set of 86 employees and their adult family members reporting unexpected health events and a matched group of healthy volunteers who had similar work assignments. Symptoms of the enigmatic ailment were for the very first time reported by United States embassy officials in Havana, Cuba, later affecting diplomats, spies, and other personnel across the globe. These included hearing noise and experiencing head pressure followed by headaches, migraines, dizziness, and memory lapses. "These individuals have symptoms that are real, distressing and very difficult to treat," Dr Leighton Chan, NIH Clinical Center acting chief scientific officer and lead study author, said according to news agency Reuters. Also read: North Korea fires ballistic missiles towards Sea of Japan as Blinken attends key Seoul summit The participants of the study included military personnel stationed in China, Vienna, Cuba, and the United States. They undertook a battery of tests including clinical, auditory, balance, visual, neuropsychological and blood testing. They also additionally received various types of MRI scans aimed at examining the volume, structure and function of the brain. Researchers at the NIH did discover that over 25 per cent of patients who reported symptoms went on to acquire persistent postural-perceptual dizziness, a chronic illness. They also reported noticeably higher levels of fatigue, post-traumatic stress and depression as compared to the control group. The results of the MRI brain imaging study "should be some reassurance for patients," said Louis French, the study's investigator and deputy director of the National Intrepid Center of Excellence at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, as he said that the researchers did not find a correlation between odd symptoms and neurodegenerative changes. “The post-traumatic stress and mood symptoms reported are not surprising given the ongoing concerns of many of the participants,” he said. The US State Department on Monday (Mar 18) said that it was reviewing the NIH report and that Secretary of State Antony Blinken's primary concern with regard to what the department calls anomalous health incidents (AHI) was the health, safety and security of personnel and family members. "The Secretary remains resolute in ensuring that the Department does everything possible to ensure employees and family members who report an AHI are treated with respect and compassion and receive timely access to medical care and all benefits to which they are entitled," a spokesperson said by email. (With inputs from agencies)

New research finds no conclusive evidence of brain injury in Havana syndrome cases

The ruling National Democractic Alliance has reached seat-sharing agreement in Bihar for the Lok Sabha polls with the BJP set to contest 17 seats and JD-U 16.

The seat-sharing agreement was announced by BJP general secretary Vinod Tawde on Monday. He said LJP (Ram Vilas) will contest five seats and Hindustani Awam Morcha and Rashtriya Lok Morcha will fight one seat each.

"The NDA alliance will fight the polls collectively. We will put our full force on all 40 seats in the state. We will win on all the 40 seats. It is my belief," he said.

The BJP has got one seat more than the JD-U, according to the seat arrangement.

He said the BJP will field candidates in Pashchim Champaran, Purvi Champaran, Aurangabad, Madhubani, Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, Maharajganj, Saran, Begusarai, Nawada, Patna Sahib, Patliputra, Aara, Buxar, and Sasaram.

Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) will contest Vaishali, Hajipur, Samastipur, Khagaria and Jamui. Hindustani Awam Morcha and Rashtriya Lok Morcha on Gaya and Karakat seats respectively.

Bihar will see polling in seven phases. The first phase of polling will be held on April 19, the second phase on April 26, the third phase on May 7, the fourth phase on May 13, the fifth phase on May 20, the sixth phase on May 25, and the seventh phase on June 1.

The Election Commission on Saturday announced the schedule for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The polling will be conducted in seven phases across the nation from April 19 to June 1. Votes will be counted on June 4.&nbsp;

The ruling National Democractic Alliance has reached seat-sharing agreement in Bihar for the Lok Sabha polls with the BJP set to contest 17 seats and JD-U 16. The seat-sharing agreement was announced by BJP general secretary Vinod Tawde on Monday.

The ruling National Democractic Alliance has reached seat-sharing agreement in Bihar for the Lok Sabha polls with the BJP set to contest 17 seats and JD-U 16. The seat-sharing agreement was announced by BJP general secretary Vinod Tawde on Monday. He said LJP (Ram Vilas) will contest five seats and Hindustani Awam Morcha and Rashtriya Lok Morcha will fight one seat each. "The NDA alliance will fight the polls collectively. We will put our full force on all 40 seats in the state. We will win on all the 40 seats. It is my belief," he said. The BJP has got one seat more than the JD-U, according to the seat arrangement. He said the BJP will field candidates in Pashchim Champaran, Purvi Champaran, Aurangabad, Madhubani, Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, Maharajganj, Saran, Begusarai, Nawada, Patna Sahib, Patliputra, Aara, Buxar, and Sasaram. Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) will contest Vaishali, Hajipur, Samastipur, Khagaria and Jamui. Hindustani Awam Morcha and Rashtriya Lok Morcha on Gaya and Karakat seats respectively. Bihar will see polling in seven phases. The first phase of polling will be held on April 19, the second phase on April 26, the third phase on May 7, the fourth phase on May 13, the fifth phase on May 20, the sixth phase on May 25, and the seventh phase on June 1. The Election Commission on Saturday announced the schedule for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The polling will be conducted in seven phases across the nation from April 19 to June 1. Votes will be counted on June 4.

India elections 2024: NDA decides seat-sharing for Lok Sabha seats in Bihar; BJP to contest 17, JD-U 16

In Pics | British street artist Banksy's new mural depicting tree foliage

The police in Uttar Pradesh's Mathura on Sunday (March 17) quashed reports of a stampede during pre-Holi celebrations at the Shri Radha Rani Mandir, Barsana.

There were reports that due to the great rush during the celebrations, several devotees were injured and fell unconscious.

Stating the reports as false, police said that despite the huge rush, elaborate security measures were in place and that the devotees were sent inside the temple in a controlled manner.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Uttar Pradesh: Drone visuals of devotees celebrating Laddu Holi from Shri Radha Rani Mandir, Barsana, in Mathura district. <a href="https://t.co/3mtmtykT1x">pic.twitter.com/3mtmtykT1x</a>
— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1769372515699138654?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
थाना बरसाना क्षेत्रान्तर्गत श्री राधारानी मंदिर बरसाना में लड्डू मार होली के कार्यक्रम में भगदड़/अव्यवस्था न होने व भ्रामक खबरें प्रसारित न किये जाने के सम्बन्ध में <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SSP_MTA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SSP_MTA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaileshP_IPS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShaileshP_IPS</a> द्वारा दी गई बाइट 1/2<a href="https://twitter.com/Uppolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Uppolice</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/adgzoneagra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@adgzoneagra</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/igrangeagra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@igrangeagra</a> <a href="https://t.co/uYSm41u6HH">pic.twitter.com/uYSm41u6HH</a>
— MATHURA POLICE (@mathurapolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/mathurapolice/status/1769403945871376639?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Senior Superintendent of Police, Mathura urged people to not spread false information on social media and also said that people should avoid taking senior citizens and children along with them due to the massive rush of devotees.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
थाना बरसाना क्षेत्रान्तर्गत श्री लाडली जी राधारानी मंदिर बरसाना में आयोजित हो रही लड्डू मार होली के कार्यक्रम में भगदड़ / अव्यवस्था न होने व भ्रामक खबरें प्रसारित न किये जाने के सम्बन्ध में वरिष्ठ पुलिस अधीक्षक मथुरा <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaileshP_IPS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShaileshP_IPS</a> द्वारा दी गई बाइट ।।<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPPolice?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPPolice</a><a href="https://twitter.com/Uppolice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Uppolice</a> <a href="https://t.co/keK4GvuIew">pic.twitter.com/keK4GvuIew</a>
— MATHURA POLICE (@mathurapolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/mathurapolice/status/1769348736625369557?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<h2>Elaborate arrangements made for Lathmar Holi</h2>

Meanwhile, the officials on Sunday said that elaborate arrangements were made for Lathmar Holi of Barsana slated for Monday (March 18).

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pm-modi-urges-people-to-climb-down-from-light-tower-during-rally-in-andhra-pradesh-701217">Watch: PM Modi urges people to climb down from light tower during rally in Andhra Pradesh</a>

“Without compromising security, every effort will be made to ensure inconvenience-free watching of Lathmar Holi and Rangotsava in Barsana. The festival gives a glimpse of fair in Barsana as several lakh Holi lovers, including international tourists, watch this rare festival,” District Magistrate Shailendra Singh said.

The entire area set for the festive celebrations, as per the officials, was divided into five zones and 12 sectors.

In order to avoid traffic congestion during the Holi celebrations, the authorities had put in place 78 barriers and 45 parking slots in Barsana.

Whereas, 29 barriers and 12 parkings were set up in Nandgaon.

Lathmar Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon would be played on March 18 and March 19 respectively, said the officials.

In Barsana, 45 parking spaces and 78 barriers have been built to prevent traffic jams. In Nandgaon, a total of 12 parking spaces and 29 obstacles have been constructed.

To ensure swift movement of traffic, four watch towers in Barsana and two in Nandgaon have been built. In addition, 150 extra buses will travel various routes to Barsana and Nandgaon in preparation for the Lathmar Holi celebration.

Four ponds in Barsana and one in Nandgaon have been barricaded in order to prevent incidents of drowning.

(With inputs from agencies)

The police in Uttar Pradesh's Mathura on Sunday (March 17) quashed reports of a stampede during pre-Holi celebrations at the Shri Radha Rani Mandir, Barsana. There were reports that due to the great rush during the celebrations, several devotees were injured and fell unconscious.

The police in Uttar Pradesh's Mathura on Sunday (March 17) quashed reports of a stampede during pre-Holi celebrations at the Shri Radha Rani Mandir, Barsana. There were reports that due to the great rush during the celebrations, several devotees were injured and fell unconscious. Stating the reports as false, police said that despite the huge rush, elaborate security measures were in place and that the devotees were sent inside the temple in a controlled manner. #WATCH | Uttar Pradesh: Drone visuals of devotees celebrating Laddu Holi from Shri Radha Rani Mandir, Barsana, in Mathura district. pic.twitter.com/3mtmtykT1x — ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) March 17, 2024 × थाना बरसाना क्षेत्रान्तर्गत श्री राधारानी मंदिर बरसाना में लड्डू मार होली के कार्यक्रम में भगदड़/अव्यवस्था न होने व भ्रामक खबरें प्रसारित न किये जाने के सम्बन्ध में #SSP_MTA @ShaileshP_IPS द्वारा दी गई बाइट 1/2@Uppolice @adgzoneagra @igrangeagra pic.twitter.com/uYSm41u6HH — MATHURA POLICE (@mathurapolice) March 17, 2024 × Senior Superintendent of Police, Mathura urged people to not spread false information on social media and also said that people should avoid taking senior citizens and children along with them due to the massive rush of devotees. थाना बरसाना क्षेत्रान्तर्गत श्री लाडली जी राधारानी मंदिर बरसाना में आयोजित हो रही लड्डू मार होली के कार्यक्रम में भगदड़ / अव्यवस्था न होने व भ्रामक खबरें प्रसारित न किये जाने के सम्बन्ध में वरिष्ठ पुलिस अधीक्षक मथुरा @ShaileshP_IPS द्वारा दी गई बाइट ।।#UPPolice@Uppolice pic.twitter.com/keK4GvuIew — MATHURA POLICE (@mathurapolice) March 17, 2024 × Elaborate arrangements made for Lathmar Holi Meanwhile, the officials on Sunday said that elaborate arrangements were made for Lathmar Holi of Barsana slated for Monday (March 18). Also read: Watch: PM Modi urges people to climb down from light tower during rally in Andhra Pradesh “Without compromising security, every effort will be made to ensure inconvenience-free watching of Lathmar Holi and Rangotsava in Barsana. The festival gives a glimpse of fair in Barsana as several lakh Holi lovers, including international tourists, watch this rare festival,” District Magistrate Shailendra Singh said. The entire area set for the festive celebrations, as per the officials, was divided into five zones and 12 sectors. In order to avoid traffic congestion during the Holi celebrations, the authorities had put in place 78 barriers and 45 parking slots in Barsana. Whereas, 29 barriers and 12 parkings were set up in Nandgaon. Lathmar Holi in Barsana and Nandgaon would be played on March 18 and March 19 respectively, said the officials. In Barsana, 45 parking spaces and 78 barriers have been built to prevent traffic jams. In Nandgaon, a total of 12 parking spaces and 29 obstacles have been constructed. To ensure swift movement of traffic, four watch towers in Barsana and two in Nandgaon have been built. In addition, 150 extra buses will travel various routes to Barsana and Nandgaon in preparation for the Lathmar Holi celebration. Four ponds in Barsana and one in Nandgaon have been barricaded in order to prevent incidents of drowning. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Police quash reports of stampede during pre-Holi celebrations in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy on Saturday (March 16)&nbsp;slammed Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over K Kavitha's arrest, terming it a "serial drama" and claiming that the parties were playing cheap politics.

"Just a day ahead of polls notification, ED arrested Kavitha. This is nothing but a serial drama. Why didn't they arrest her in 2022? K Kavitha is the daughter of KCR [Chandrashekhar Rao, the chief of BRS]. When ED arrested her and took her, why didn't KCR come there as a father or as party chief?" he asked at a press conference.

He further&nbsp;said that both BRS and BJP were trying to mislead people.

"They are trying to play cheap politics. Both BJP and BRS are trying to mislead people. Modi wants to take votes portraying that they take action on her for involving in a scam and KCR want to take votes on sympathy. We see how cheap political tactics are being played," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-brs-leader-k-kavitha-remanded-to-eds-custody-for-7-days-700933">India: BRS leader K Kavitha remanded to ED's custody for 7 days</a>

A court in Delhi on Saturday (Mar 16) sent Kavitha to custodial remand until March 23.&nbsp;She was arrested on Friday in connection with the Delhi excise policy-linked money laundering case.

Daughter of BRS founder and former Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, Kavitha was produced in the courtroom under heavy security in the presence of lawyers, party workers and media personnel.

While being produced before the court, she termed her arrest as illegal and said, "We will fight it (case) out in court."

Her arrest by the ED came after a raid at her Hyderabad residence by the probe agency.

In the arrest order, the concerned ED investigation officer said, "I believe that Kalvakuntla Kavitha, w/o DR Anil Kumar, residing in Hyderabad, Telengana-500034, has been guilty of an offence punishable under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (15 of 2003)."

"Now, therefore, in the exercise of the power conferred upon me under subsection (1) of Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (915 of 2003), I hereby arrest the said Kalvakuntla Kavitha at 05.20 pm on 15.03.2024 and she has been informed of the grounds for her arrest. A copy of the grounds of arrest (containing 14 pages) has been served upon her."

(With inputs from agencies)

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy on Saturday (March 16) slammed Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over K Kavitha's arrest, terming it a "serial drama" and claiming that the parties were playing cheap politics.

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy on Saturday (March 16) slammed Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over K Kavitha's arrest, terming it a "serial drama" and claiming that the parties were playing cheap politics. "Just a day ahead of polls notification, ED arrested Kavitha. This is nothing but a serial drama. Why didn't they arrest her in 2022? K Kavitha is the daughter of KCR [Chandrashekhar Rao, the chief of BRS]. When ED arrested her and took her, why didn't KCR come there as a father or as party chief?" he asked at a press conference. He further said that both BRS and BJP were trying to mislead people. "They are trying to play cheap politics. Both BJP and BRS are trying to mislead people. Modi wants to take votes portraying that they take action on her for involving in a scam and KCR want to take votes on sympathy. We see how cheap political tactics are being played," he added. Also read: India: BRS leader K Kavitha remanded to ED's custody for 7 days A court in Delhi on Saturday (Mar 16) sent Kavitha to custodial remand until March 23. She was arrested on Friday in connection with the Delhi excise policy-linked money laundering case. Daughter of BRS founder and former Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, Kavitha was produced in the courtroom under heavy security in the presence of lawyers, party workers and media personnel. While being produced before the court, she termed her arrest as illegal and said, "We will fight it (case) out in court." Her arrest by the ED came after a raid at her Hyderabad residence by the probe agency. In the arrest order, the concerned ED investigation officer said, "I believe that Kalvakuntla Kavitha, w/o DR Anil Kumar, residing in Hyderabad, Telengana-500034, has been guilty of an offence punishable under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (15 of 2003)." "Now, therefore, in the exercise of the power conferred upon me under subsection (1) of Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (915 of 2003), I hereby arrest the said Kalvakuntla Kavitha at 05.20 pm on 15.03.2024 and she has been informed of the grounds for her arrest. A copy of the grounds of arrest (containing 14 pages) has been served upon her." (With inputs from agencies)

Telangana CM launches scathing attack against BRS and BJP over Kavitha's arrest, calls it 'serial drama'

Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari's youngest daughter Aseefa Bhutto Zardari is set to run in the upcoming by-election for the NA-207 Nawabshah seat which would be a crucial step towards her political debut.

The development comes after Zardari's ascension to the presidency created vacancy of the seat, providing Aseefa with an opportunity for her very first election bid.

Aseefa is expected to travel to Nawabshah on Sunday (March 17), where she will formally file her nomination for the by-election, marking her entry into the political arena.

She would be greeted by the party members and supporters at Nawabshah Airport and will kickstart her campaign there with a rally headed towards Zardari House.

Aseefa Bhutto Zardari's upcoming ascension to the position of Pakistan's first lady lends additional significance to her rapidly developing political career.

Aseefa is set to become the second daughter or sister of a head of state in Pakistan's history to carry forward the title after her father was sworn in as the 14th President of Pakistan.

The role of the first lady has traditionally been assigned to the spouse of a head of state or government, therefore this rare event breaks with precedent.

Aseefa pursued her education at prestigious institutions including Oxford Brookes University, University College of London and the University of Edinburgh.

She was first seen in the public when she made a debut speech at a Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) rally. Previously, she also served as Pakistan’s Ambassador for polio eradication.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-pia-bars-pilots-cabin-crew-from-boarding-flights-while-observing-fasts-during-ramadan-700207">Pakistan's PIA bars pilots, cabin crew from boarding flights while observing fasts during Ramadan</a>

<h2>Asif Ali Zardari sworn in as Pakistan’s president for record second time</h2>

Earlier this week, Zardari, the widower of assassinated former Pakistani prime minister Benazir Bhutto, took oath as the 14th president of the South Asian country. Zardari, backed by Pakistan Peoples' Party and Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) secured 411 votes against 181 votes secured by Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf-backed Mahmood Khan Achakzai.

Zardari was sworn in as the Pakistani head of state for the second time. He earlier served as the 11th president of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013 after his wife's assassination which took place during the military rule of General Pervez Musharraf.

Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa administered the oath to Zardari at a ceremony. The event was attended by governors and chief ministers of all provinces except Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister and PTI leader Ali Amin Gandapur.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari's youngest daughter Aseefa Bhutto Zardari is set to run in the upcoming by-election for the NA-207 Nawabshah seat which would be a crucial step towards her political debut.

Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari's youngest daughter Aseefa Bhutto Zardari is set to run in the upcoming by-election for the NA-207 Nawabshah seat which would be a crucial step towards her political debut. The development comes after Zardari's ascension to the presidency created vacancy of the seat, providing Aseefa with an opportunity for her very first election bid. Aseefa is expected to travel to Nawabshah on Sunday (March 17), where she will formally file her nomination for the by-election, marking her entry into the political arena. She would be greeted by the party members and supporters at Nawabshah Airport and will kickstart her campaign there with a rally headed towards Zardari House. Aseefa Bhutto Zardari's upcoming ascension to the position of Pakistan's first lady lends additional significance to her rapidly developing political career. Aseefa is set to become the second daughter or sister of a head of state in Pakistan's history to carry forward the title after her father was sworn in as the 14th President of Pakistan. The role of the first lady has traditionally been assigned to the spouse of a head of state or government, therefore this rare event breaks with precedent. Aseefa pursued her education at prestigious institutions including Oxford Brookes University, University College of London and the University of Edinburgh. She was first seen in the public when she made a debut speech at a Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) rally. Previously, she also served as Pakistan’s Ambassador for polio eradication. Also read: Pakistan's PIA bars pilots, cabin crew from boarding flights while observing fasts during Ramadan Asif Ali Zardari sworn in as Pakistan’s president for record second time Earlier this week, Zardari, the widower of assassinated former Pakistani prime minister Benazir Bhutto, took oath as the 14th president of the South Asian country. Zardari, backed by Pakistan Peoples' Party and Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) secured 411 votes against 181 votes secured by Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf-backed Mahmood Khan Achakzai. Zardari was sworn in as the Pakistani head of state for the second time. He earlier served as the 11th president of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013 after his wife's assassination which took place during the military rule of General Pervez Musharraf. Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa administered the oath to Zardari at a ceremony. The event was attended by governors and chief ministers of all provinces except Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister and PTI leader Ali Amin Gandapur. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Aseefa Bhutto submits nomination papers for bye-polls on seat vacated by father Asif Ali Zardari

The third meeting of the India-Maldives High-Level Core Group was held in Male on Sunday (March 17).

During the meeting, New Delhi and Male reviewed the ongoing deputation of Indian technical experts in order to enable the ongoing operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide the people of Maldives with humanitarian and medvac services, said India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement.

"Both sides continued their discussions on wide-ranging issues related to bilateral cooperation. This inter alia, included expediting the implementation of ongoing development cooperation projects through regular convening of joint monitoring mechanisms, efforts to boost bilateral trade and investment and enhancing people-to-people linkages through capacity building and travel," said MEA in a statement.

The MEA stated that both countries agreed to hold the next meeting of the High-Level Core Group in New Delhi on a mutually convenient date.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The third meeting of the India-Maldives High-Level Core Group was held in Male today. During the meeting, both sides reviewed the ongoing deputation of Indian technical personnel to enable continued operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide humanitarian and medvac… <a href="https://t.co/kn1FMW037Q">pic.twitter.com/kn1FMW037Q</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1769346355510538700?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<h2>India replaces first batch of military soldiers in Maldives with technical personnel, says MEA</h2>

Meanwhile, the MEA on Friday (March 15) said that New Delhi had replaced its first batch of military soldiers in Maldives with technical personnel.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-to-get-free-military-assistance-from-china-inks-agreement-to-promote-stronger-bilateral-ties-696595">Also read: Maldives to get free military assistance from China, inks agreement to promote 'stronger' bilateral ties</a>

"The turnaround of the first team of personnel who were operating the ALH helicopter has been completed. So, the first batch that had to be replaced has been completed. The turnaround has happened," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a weekly briefing.&nbsp;

President Muizzu, who is largely perceived as a pro-China leader, set March 10 as the deadline for the withdrawal of the first group of Indian military troops from Maldives.

His government had formally requested that India withdraw its troops from Male.

Earlier, the external affairs ministry had informed that both India and the Maldives had mutually agreed on setting up workable solutions in order to enable the ongoing operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide medical as well as humanitarian evacuation services to the people of the Maldives.

Muizzu, who came to power in September 2023, had implemented the phased evacuation and it was his election promise that the Indian troops would be removed from the island nation. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The third meeting of the India-Maldives High-Level Core Group was held in Male on Sunday (March 17). During the meeting, New Delhi and Male reviewed the ongoing deputation of Indian technical experts in order to enable the ongoing operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide the people of Maldives with humanitarian and medvac services, said India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement.

The third meeting of the India-Maldives High-Level Core Group was held in Male on Sunday (March 17). During the meeting, New Delhi and Male reviewed the ongoing deputation of Indian technical experts in order to enable the ongoing operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide the people of Maldives with humanitarian and medvac services, said India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement. "Both sides continued their discussions on wide-ranging issues related to bilateral cooperation. This inter alia, included expediting the implementation of ongoing development cooperation projects through regular convening of joint monitoring mechanisms, efforts to boost bilateral trade and investment and enhancing people-to-people linkages through capacity building and travel," said MEA in a statement. The MEA stated that both countries agreed to hold the next meeting of the High-Level Core Group in New Delhi on a mutually convenient date. The third meeting of the India-Maldives High-Level Core Group was held in Male today. During the meeting, both sides reviewed the ongoing deputation of Indian technical personnel to enable continued operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide humanitarian and medvac… pic.twitter.com/kn1FMW037Q — ANI (@ANI) March 17, 2024 × India replaces first batch of military soldiers in Maldives with technical personnel, says MEA Meanwhile, the MEA on Friday (March 15) said that New Delhi had replaced its first batch of military soldiers in Maldives with technical personnel. Also read: Maldives to get free military assistance from China, inks agreement to promote 'stronger' bilateral ties "The turnaround of the first team of personnel who were operating the ALH helicopter has been completed. So, the first batch that had to be replaced has been completed. The turnaround has happened," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a weekly briefing. President Muizzu, who is largely perceived as a pro-China leader, set March 10 as the deadline for the withdrawal of the first group of Indian military troops from Maldives. His government had formally requested that India withdraw its troops from Male. Earlier, the external affairs ministry had informed that both India and the Maldives had mutually agreed on setting up workable solutions in order to enable the ongoing operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide medical as well as humanitarian evacuation services to the people of the Maldives. Muizzu, who came to power in September 2023, had implemented the phased evacuation and it was his election promise that the Indian troops would be removed from the island nation. (With inputs from agencies)

India and Maldives hold third high-level core group meeting, review deputation of Indian technical personnel

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Navya Beri

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.