8 Indian-Origin Highest-Paid CEOs In United States

Sunder Pichai, born in Indian state of Tamil nadu, is the CEO of Alphabet Inc. and its subsidiary Google and drew a salary of $226 million in 2022.

Satya Nadella was born in Hyderabad, India and is currently the executive chairman and CEO of Microsoft. His salary was $49.9 million in 2021.


Indian-American business executive Shantanu Narayen is the chairman, president, and chief executive officer (CEO) of Adobe Inc. since December 2007 and was drawing a salary of $36.1 million in 2021.

Arvind Krishna has been serving as IBM’s Chairman and CEO since April 2020 and his salary was $14.9 million in 2021.

Sanjay Mehrotra was a co-founder of SanDisk and is currently the CEO of Micron Technology. His salary was $25.3 million in 2021.

Jay Chaudhry, an Indian-American billionaire entrepreneur, is the founder and CEO of cloud security company Zscaler and his reported salary was $41.35 million in 2022.

Anirudh Devgan, an Indian-American computer scientist, is currently serving as President and CEO of Cadence Design Systems. His salary was $32 million in 2022.

Ajei S Gopal has been president and CEO of ANSYS Inc. for the past five years and drew a salary of $21 million in 2022.   

<p>The team of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) started a scientific survey of the Gyanvapi mosque complex in the northern city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh state on Monday (July 24) as per court orders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the heart of the case is the contention by a group of Hindu petitioners that there is a shivling, a holy structure for the religion, in the mosque complex which they want to worship. The Muslim representatives argue that it is a fountain.</p>

<p>The ASI is carrying out the survey of the premises, excluding the sealed 'Wazukhana' area, even though a petition has been filed by the mosque management committee, against the order of the Varanasi district court allowing the inspection, in the Supreme Court. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>40 officials visit the mosque complex</strong></h2>

<p>The team of ASI reached Varanasi on Sunday (July 23) along with all the required equipment. As per reports, currently 40 members including ASI officials, councils for the Gyanvapi mosque management committee, four Hindu women plaintiff and their counsels are present in the mosque complex. The Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Committee had said it will not participate in the survey.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-varanasi-court-allows-archaeological-survey-of-entire-gyanvapi-complex-excluding-wuzukhana-618162">India: Varanasi court allows archaeological survey of entire Gyanvapi complex, excluding 'wuzukhana'</a></p>

<p>The committee's joint secretary SM Yasin said, “We have boycotted the ASI survey. Neither we, nor our advocate are present there (in the Gyanvapi mosque) during the ASI survey. We are not participating in it."</p>

<p>The order was pronounced by the Varanasi after a petition was filed by the Hindu side demanding that ASI carries out a “scientific survey” of the entire Gyanvapi mosque premises.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Advocate Subhash Nandan Chaturvedi, who is representing the Hindu side, stated that the survey's result will be in favour of Hindus. Addressing the media reporters, Subhash Nandan Chaturvedi said, "We are sure that the whole premise is of temple only. The result of the survey will be favourable to us."</p>

<h2><strong>Survey to complete in 3 to 6 months</strong></h2>

<p>"Today the Gyanvapi survey will be conducted, it is a good thing for us...the survey will begin at 7 am, can't say how long it will go on...", stated advocate Sudhir Tripathi, who will be representing the Hindu side.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India: Nine arrested from across the country over investment fraud</strong></p>

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<p>"I have been informed that my application has been approved and the court has given directions to conduct an ASI survey of the Gyanvapi mosque complex, excluding the Wazukhana which has been sealed. I think the survey can be completed within 3 to 6 months," stated advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Advocate Subhash Nandan Chaturvedi said the decision of the court is a turning point in the case. "Our application for the ASI survey has been accepted. It is a turning point in the case," he stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;the Gyanvapi Masjid Committee moved the Supreme Court, seeking the case's urgent listing after the survey was ordered by a Varanasi court. The case of the&nbsp;committee will be presented before the Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud on Monday (July 24).</p>

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The team of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) started a scientific survey of the Gyanvapi mosque complex in the northern city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh state on Monday (July 24) as per court orders.

The team of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) started a scientific survey of the Gyanvapi mosque complex in the northern city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh state on Monday (July 24) as per court orders. At the heart of the case is the contention by a group of Hindu petitioners that there is a shivling, a holy structure for the religion, in the mosque complex which they want to worship. The Muslim representatives argue that it is a fountain. The ASI is carrying out the survey of the premises, excluding the sealed 'Wazukhana' area, even though a petition has been filed by the mosque management committee, against the order of the Varanasi district court allowing the inspection, in the Supreme Court. 40 officials visit the mosque complex The team of ASI reached Varanasi on Sunday (July 23) along with all the required equipment. As per reports, currently 40 members including ASI officials, councils for the Gyanvapi mosque management committee, four Hindu women plaintiff and their counsels are present in the mosque complex. The Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Committee had said it will not participate in the survey. ALSO READ | India: Varanasi court allows archaeological survey of entire Gyanvapi complex, excluding 'wuzukhana' The committee's joint secretary SM Yasin said, “We have boycotted the ASI survey. Neither we, nor our advocate are present there (in the Gyanvapi mosque) during the ASI survey. We are not participating in it." The order was pronounced by the Varanasi after a petition was filed by the Hindu side demanding that ASI carries out a “scientific survey” of the entire Gyanvapi mosque premises. Advocate Subhash Nandan Chaturvedi, who is representing the Hindu side, stated that the survey's result will be in favour of Hindus. Addressing the media reporters, Subhash Nandan Chaturvedi said, "We are sure that the whole premise is of temple only. The result of the survey will be favourable to us." Survey to complete in 3 to 6 months "Today the Gyanvapi survey will be conducted, it is a good thing for us...the survey will begin at 7 am, can't say how long it will go on...", stated advocate Sudhir Tripathi, who will be representing the Hindu side. WATCH | India: Nine arrested from across the country over investment fraud "I have been informed that my application has been approved and the court has given directions to conduct an ASI survey of the Gyanvapi mosque complex, excluding the Wazukhana which has been sealed. I think the survey can be completed within 3 to 6 months," stated advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain. Advocate Subhash Nandan Chaturvedi said the decision of the court is a turning point in the case. "Our application for the ASI survey has been accepted. It is a turning point in the case," he stated. Meanwhile, the Gyanvapi Masjid Committee moved the Supreme Court, seeking the case's urgent listing after the survey was ordered by a Varanasi court. The case of the committee will be presented before the Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud on Monday (July 24). You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: ASI reaches Gyanvapi mosque to conduct scientific survey of complex

<p>The opposition conservative party of Spain, led by Alberto Núñez Feijoo, clinched the maximum number of seats in the snap elections but failed to secure a majority on Monday (July 24).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although it was predicted that the opposition conservative People’s Party (PP) is likely to defeat the Spanish Socialist Workers Party (PSOE) and emerge as the winner in Sunday's elections, early results quickly reflected that the race was going to be much tighter.</p>

<p>Once the total votes were counted, the PP had clinched 136 seats to the PSOE’s 122. The potential coalition partners of conservatives, the far-right Vox party, had clinched 33 seats and PSOE’s allies in the far-left Sumar alliance had 31 seats.</p>

<p>The vote counts showed that the polls have ended with an inconclusive result as the left and right blocs run almost neck and neck in their race to gain a majority of 176 seats as soon as possible.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-elections-spaniards-vote-in-snap-polls-after-campaign-centered-on-womens-rights-618598">&nbsp;Spain elections: Spaniards vote in snap polls following campaign centered on women's rights</a></p>

<h2><strong>Negotiations and horse-trading in weeks ahead</strong></h2>

<p>Till Monday, PP and Vox had secured 169 seats in comparison to the PSOE and Sumar’s 153, which reflects that the country will see weeks of negotiating and horse-trading as options are being explored by rival parties to form a government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two blocs will start negotiations to form governments after a new parliament convenes on August 17. PP’s leader Alberto Nunez Feijoo will be invited by King Felipe VI and will be given an opportunity to secure the prime ministership. PP leader Mariano Rajoy had once declined the invitation of the king after a similar situation had arisen in 2015.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If Feijoo declines the invitation, the king will make the same request to Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. No deadline for the process has been set by the law but if a majority is not secured by any candidate within two months of the first vote on the prime minister, the country needs to hold new elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Spain elections: Spaniards vote in snap polls following campaign centered on women`s rights</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Sanchez expresses intent to form government</strong></h2>

<p>Late on Sunday, Sanchez said that the Spanish right's “reactionary” parties had failed at the polls. “We’ve won more votes, more seats and a bigger share of the vote than we did four years ago,” he said while addressing the crowds gathered outside the PSOE’s headquarters in Madrid.</p>

<p>“The retrograde, reactionary block that sought to undo the advances of the past four years has failed," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PP’s leader Feijoo expressed his gratitude to all those who worked for the victory of the party and said that he wished to form a government as soon as possible.</p>

<p>“Our duty now is to stop a period of uncertainty opening up in Spain. As the candidate for the party that won the most votes, I believe my duty is to open up the dialogue as soon as possible and to try to govern our country in accordance with the election results and the election victory," he stated.</p>

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The opposition conservative party of Spain, led by Alberto Núñez Feijoo, clinched the maximum number of seats in the snap elections but failed to secure a majority on Monday (July 24).

The opposition conservative party of Spain, led by Alberto Núñez Feijoo, clinched the maximum number of seats in the snap elections but failed to secure a majority on Monday (July 24). Although it was predicted that the opposition conservative People’s Party (PP) is likely to defeat the Spanish Socialist Workers Party (PSOE) and emerge as the winner in Sunday's elections, early results quickly reflected that the race was going to be much tighter. Once the total votes were counted, the PP had clinched 136 seats to the PSOE’s 122. The potential coalition partners of conservatives, the far-right Vox party, had clinched 33 seats and PSOE’s allies in the far-left Sumar alliance had 31 seats. The vote counts showed that the polls have ended with an inconclusive result as the left and right blocs run almost neck and neck in their race to gain a majority of 176 seats as soon as possible. ALSO READ | Spain elections: Spaniards vote in snap polls following campaign centered on women's rights Negotiations and horse-trading in weeks ahead Till Monday, PP and Vox had secured 169 seats in comparison to the PSOE and Sumar’s 153, which reflects that the country will see weeks of negotiating and horse-trading as options are being explored by rival parties to form a government. The two blocs will start negotiations to form governments after a new parliament convenes on August 17. PP’s leader Alberto Nunez Feijoo will be invited by King Felipe VI and will be given an opportunity to secure the prime ministership. PP leader Mariano Rajoy had once declined the invitation of the king after a similar situation had arisen in 2015. If Feijoo declines the invitation, the king will make the same request to Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. No deadline for the process has been set by the law but if a majority is not secured by any candidate within two months of the first vote on the prime minister, the country needs to hold new elections. WATCH | Spain elections: Spaniards vote in snap polls following campaign centered on women`s rights Sanchez expresses intent to form government Late on Sunday, Sanchez said that the Spanish right's “reactionary” parties had failed at the polls. “We’ve won more votes, more seats and a bigger share of the vote than we did four years ago,” he said while addressing the crowds gathered outside the PSOE’s headquarters in Madrid. “The retrograde, reactionary block that sought to undo the advances of the past four years has failed," he added. PP’s leader Feijoo expressed his gratitude to all those who worked for the victory of the party and said that he wished to form a government as soon as possible. “Our duty now is to stop a period of uncertainty opening up in Spain. As the candidate for the party that won the most votes, I believe my duty is to open up the dialogue as soon as possible and to try to govern our country in accordance with the election results and the election victory," he stated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Hung parliament in Spain after conservatives fail to secure majority in snap polls

<p>A police officer released his K-9 dog to attack an unarmed Black man, who had surrendered with his hands up, even though repeated appeals were made to officers by an Ohio State Trooper not to do so.</p>

<p>The incident on July 4 took place after a lengthy pursuit of a commercial semi-truck by the police officers which did not stop for an inspection, according to a video shared by the Ohio State Highway Patrol. &nbsp;</p>

<p>CNN reported citing a redacted Ohio State Highway Patrol case report the suspect's vehicle was moving west on US 35 in Jackson County. He was asked to stop by the police inspector because “the vehicle was missing a left rear mud flap."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-officials-ban-march-for-black-man-who-died-in-police-after-recent-riots-613431">Hundreds defy protest ban in Paris, hold march for Black man who died in police custody</a></p>

<p>The inspector turned on the lights of his marked patrol vehicle and the “suspect vehicle continued west on US 35 and made eye contact” with the inspector, as per the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked to stop, the vehicle’s 23-year-old driver Jadarrius Rose continued to drive and the police inspector had to ask for a marked patrol unit to assist, as per the case report.</p>

<h2><strong>Man screams “get the dog off of me…please"</strong></h2>

<p>Initially in the video, the authorities are seen pursuing a semi-truck which appeared to “slow down to a roll” to stop. When the semi-truck stopped, a police officer was seen getting out of the vehicle while pointing a weapon toward the semi-truck and asking the &nbsp;driver to “get out of the truck.”</p>

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Police in Ohio were caught on bodycam releasing a K9 on an unarmed black man with his hands in the air despite orders from an officer on the scene. <a href="https://t.co/ZZ65FftDi7">pic.twitter.com/ZZ65FftDi7</a></p>
— 🥀Imposter🥀 (@Imposter_edits1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Imposter_edits1/status/1681134379496529921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The driver started driving back on the road. He was then seen being chased by the authorities who were joined by multiple law enforcement vehicles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Eventually, the semi-truck was stopped by the driver, who was immediately surrounded by several police cars and officers once he got down as per the video. Then, a state trooper came out of his vehicle and walked towards the driver. &nbsp;“Come to me,” an officer said, as another added, “get on the ground or you’re going to get bit.”</p>

<p>The driver was seen on the road with his hands up.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden uses shorter retractable staircase to board his plane</strong></p>

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<p>“Do not release the dog with his hands up,” warned a state trooper, who was standing at a distance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Circleville Police Department arrived on the scene and stopped in the southbound lanes of US-23 adjacent to the suspect. Circleville K9 Officer R. Speakman exited his patrol car and began giving commands to the suspect. Circleville K9 Officer R. Speakman deployed his K9 on the suspect," the redacted case report read.</p>

<p>As per the video, even after repeated warnings from the state trooper, the dog was released by the officer. The dog then attacked the man and pulled him to the ground, while he screamed &nbsp;“get the dog off of me…please…please…get it off.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A police officer released his K-9 dog to attack an unarmed Black man, who had surrendered with his hands up, even though repeated appeals were made to officers by an Ohio State Trooper not to do so.

A police officer released his K-9 dog to attack an unarmed Black man, who had surrendered with his hands up, even though repeated appeals were made to officers by an Ohio State Trooper not to do so. The incident on July 4 took place after a lengthy pursuit of a commercial semi-truck by the police officers which did not stop for an inspection, according to a video shared by the Ohio State Highway Patrol. CNN reported citing a redacted Ohio State Highway Patrol case report the suspect's vehicle was moving west on US 35 in Jackson County. He was asked to stop by the police inspector because “the vehicle was missing a left rear mud flap." ALSO READ | Hundreds defy protest ban in Paris, hold march for Black man who died in police custody The inspector turned on the lights of his marked patrol vehicle and the “suspect vehicle continued west on US 35 and made eye contact” with the inspector, as per the report. When asked to stop, the vehicle’s 23-year-old driver Jadarrius Rose continued to drive and the police inspector had to ask for a marked patrol unit to assist, as per the case report. Man screams “get the dog off of me…please" Initially in the video, the authorities are seen pursuing a semi-truck which appeared to “slow down to a roll” to stop. When the semi-truck stopped, a police officer was seen getting out of the vehicle while pointing a weapon toward the semi-truck and asking the driver to “get out of the truck.” (CW: police brutality disturbing footage) Police in Ohio were caught on bodycam releasing a K9 on an unarmed black man with his hands in the air despite orders from an officer on the scene. pic.twitter.com/ZZ65FftDi7 — 🥀Imposter🥀 (@Imposter_edits1) July 18, 2023 × The driver started driving back on the road. He was then seen being chased by the authorities who were joined by multiple law enforcement vehicles. Eventually, the semi-truck was stopped by the driver, who was immediately surrounded by several police cars and officers once he got down as per the video. Then, a state trooper came out of his vehicle and walked towards the driver. “Come to me,” an officer said, as another added, “get on the ground or you’re going to get bit.” The driver was seen on the road with his hands up. WATCH | US President Joe Biden uses shorter retractable staircase to board his plane “Do not release the dog with his hands up,” warned a state trooper, who was standing at a distance. “Circleville Police Department arrived on the scene and stopped in the southbound lanes of US-23 adjacent to the suspect. Circleville K9 Officer R. Speakman exited his patrol car and began giving commands to the suspect. Circleville K9 Officer R. Speakman deployed his K9 on the suspect," the redacted case report read. As per the video, even after repeated warnings from the state trooper, the dog was released by the officer. The dog then attacked the man and pulled him to the ground, while he screamed “get the dog off of me…please…please…get it off.” (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch | Black lives do not matter? Police in US attack unarmed man with K-9 dog despite his surrender

<p>India's Supreme Court on Monday (July 24) put on hold for two days a scientific survey by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on the Gyanvapi mosque in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh.</p>

<p>The top court's ruling that stayed a Varanasi district court order for the survey came on the plea submitted by the Gyanvapi Masjid Committee.</p>

<p>The court granted the Gyanvapi mosque management committee time till July 26 to approach the Allahabad High Court against the lower court's order and said that till that time, the status quo be maintained at the site.</p>

<p>At the heart of the case is the contention by a group of Hindu petitioners that there is a shivling, a holy structure for the religion, in the mosque complex which they want to worship. The Muslim representatives argue that it is a fountain.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-asi-reaches-gyanvapi-mosque-to-conduct-scientific-survey-of-complex-618754">India: ASI reaches Gyanvapi mosque to conduct scientific survey of complex</a></p>

<p>The management committee of the mosque had expressed its apprehensions that the survey may involve excavation at the complex which is located next to the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple at Varanasi.</p>

<p>SC recorded the submissions of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and stated that no excavations are being carried out by the ASI as per the district court's order and no excavation has been planned for a week.</p>

<h2><strong>'Not a brick removed'</strong></h2>

<p>Informing the court about the current developments, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said, "Not a brick has been removed nor is it planned to be removed. Right now what is going on is measurement, photography, and radar, which will not affect the structure."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Supreme Court told advocate Huzefa Ahmadi, appearing for the Gyanvapi mosque management committee, that no excavation will be carried out for two weeks and that the ASI is not touching the structure currently and just carrying out the measurement and photography, which will not hamper the place of worship.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It appears that ASI is not contemplating carrying out any excavation in pursuance of the order. We record the statement to the extent that no excavation at the site is contemplated at this stage for a period of one week until next week Monday," said Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, taking the submissions of the centre on record.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;'PM Modi envisions a semiconductor ecosystem in India' says Rajeev Chandrasekhar</strong></p>

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<p>Speaking about Supreme Court's order, advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain who was representing the Hindu side in the Gyanvapi mosque case, said, "Supreme Court has put a stay on the order of the District Court on survey of the Mosque complex and has asked the Allahabad Court to decide matter afresh. We will keep our argument in at Allahabad HC. The Muslim side, Anjuman Intezamia misled the SC and said that digging has started there, which is not true."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Varanasi district magistrate said it will abide by the top court order.</p>

<h2><strong>ASI team reaches the mosque</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, the team of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)&nbsp; reached the Gyanvapi mosque complex to carry out the scientific survey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The team of ASI had reached Varanasi on Sunday (July 23) along with all the required equipment. The Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Committee had said it will not participate in the survey.&nbsp;</p>

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India's Supreme Court on Monday (July 24) put on hold for two days a scientific survey by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on the Gyanvapi mosque in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh.

India's Supreme Court on Monday (July 24) put on hold for two days a scientific survey by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on the Gyanvapi mosque in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. The top court's ruling that stayed a Varanasi district court order for the survey came on the plea submitted by the Gyanvapi Masjid Committee. The court granted the Gyanvapi mosque management committee time till July 26 to approach the Allahabad High Court against the lower court's order and said that till that time, the status quo be maintained at the site. At the heart of the case is the contention by a group of Hindu petitioners that there is a shivling, a holy structure for the religion, in the mosque complex which they want to worship. The Muslim representatives argue that it is a fountain. ALSO READ | India: ASI reaches Gyanvapi mosque to conduct scientific survey of complex The management committee of the mosque had expressed its apprehensions that the survey may involve excavation at the complex which is located next to the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple at Varanasi. SC recorded the submissions of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and stated that no excavations are being carried out by the ASI as per the district court's order and no excavation has been planned for a week. 'Not a brick removed' Informing the court about the current developments, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said, "Not a brick has been removed nor is it planned to be removed. Right now what is going on is measurement, photography, and radar, which will not affect the structure." The Supreme Court told advocate Huzefa Ahmadi, appearing for the Gyanvapi mosque management committee, that no excavation will be carried out for two weeks and that the ASI is not touching the structure currently and just carrying out the measurement and photography, which will not hamper the place of worship. "It appears that ASI is not contemplating carrying out any excavation in pursuance of the order. We record the statement to the extent that no excavation at the site is contemplated at this stage for a period of one week until next week Monday," said Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, taking the submissions of the centre on record. WATCH | 'PM Modi envisions a semiconductor ecosystem in India' says Rajeev Chandrasekhar Speaking about Supreme Court's order, advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain who was representing the Hindu side in the Gyanvapi mosque case, said, "Supreme Court has put a stay on the order of the District Court on survey of the Mosque complex and has asked the Allahabad Court to decide matter afresh. We will keep our argument in at Allahabad HC. The Muslim side, Anjuman Intezamia misled the SC and said that digging has started there, which is not true." Meanwhile, Varanasi district magistrate said it will abide by the top court order. ASI team reaches the mosque Earlier in the day, the team of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) reached the Gyanvapi mosque complex to carry out the scientific survey. The team of ASI had reached Varanasi on Sunday (July 23) along with all the required equipment. The Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Committee had said it will not participate in the survey. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Supreme Court stays Varanasi court order on Gyanvapi Mosque survey

<p>Scientists have claimed that an alien spaceship may have crash-landed on the surface of Mars after they spotted strange pointy protrusions on its surface.</p>

<p>NASA's Curiosity Rover in April photographed what looked like rows of spikes, plates and wedges which protruded from rocks lying on the 96-mile (154 km) Gale Crater's floor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NASA Ames Research Centre and Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (Seti) Institute's astrobiologist Dr Nathalie Cabrol said that it was “the most bizarre rock” which she had seen in her 20 years of studying Mars.</p>

<p>A new paper has now been published in the Journal of Astrobiology which concluded that the formations might be “sand spikes”, which are similar to those which get formed on Earth in water-logged sands when earthquakes of magnitude seven and greater hit the surface.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/nasa-rover-discovers-new-evidence-of-organic-molecules-on-mars-615591">NASA rover discovers new evidence of organic molecules on Mars</a></p>

<p>Similar kinds of rock formations have been seen in the north Alpine basin of south Germany, which is linked with the 15 million-year-old Nordlinger Reis asteroid impact basin.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>No absolute certainty over extraterrestrial spacecraft's landing</strong></h2>

<p>However, researchers caution that “a fragment from an extraterrestrial or terrestrial spacecraft cannot be discounted with absolute certainty” – pointing out what looks like wheels, an axle and a debris field photographed in a different part of the Gale Crater.</p>

<p>The authors said that over time a similar debris field connected to the spikes may have been eroded.</p>

<p>Prof Richard Armstrong, the first author of the paper who works at Aston University, Birmingham, speaking to The Telegraph, said, “There is no way of proving for certain what the spikes are but the balance of the evidence would suggest ‘sand spikes’ resulting from seismic activity on Mars. I suspect the enigmatic ‘wheels’ are a separate phenomenon. Mars images often show strange formations and features which ‘look like’ familiar objects.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;These pictures of Earth from Mars show there's no 'Planet B' for us</strong></p>

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<p>“Any debris field on Mars would certainly suffer erosion over time, especially from wind," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the journal, the authors have stated, “Given that possibly 10 or more craft have crashed upon the surface, coupled with the jettison of equipment associated with landing the rovers, it is possible the spikes and its substrate are human-made and consist of debris that fell onto the surface of Gale Crater. Nevertheless, no debris field is evident and no evidence of any additional debris that may have originated on Earth."</p>

<p>“Given its small size and that there are no known human-made analogues and no logical explanation as to what purpose these spikes may serve, it does not seem likely these specimens are the remnants of craft or equipment that fell into Gale Crater. One can only speculate about extraterrestrial origins," they added.&nbsp;</p>

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Scientists have claimed that an alien spaceship may have crash-landed on the surface of Mars after they spotted strange pointy protrusions on its surface. NASA's Curiosity Rover in April photographed what looked like rows of spikes, plates and wedges which protruded from rocks lying on the 96-mile (154 km) Gale Crater's floor.

Scientists have claimed that an alien spaceship may have crash-landed on the surface of Mars after they spotted strange pointy protrusions on its surface. NASA's Curiosity Rover in April photographed what looked like rows of spikes, plates and wedges which protruded from rocks lying on the 96-mile (154 km) Gale Crater's floor. NASA Ames Research Centre and Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (Seti) Institute's astrobiologist Dr Nathalie Cabrol said that it was “the most bizarre rock” which she had seen in her 20 years of studying Mars. A new paper has now been published in the Journal of Astrobiology which concluded that the formations might be “sand spikes”, which are similar to those which get formed on Earth in water-logged sands when earthquakes of magnitude seven and greater hit the surface. ALSO READ | NASA rover discovers new evidence of organic molecules on Mars Similar kinds of rock formations have been seen in the north Alpine basin of south Germany, which is linked with the 15 million-year-old Nordlinger Reis asteroid impact basin. No absolute certainty over extraterrestrial spacecraft's landing However, researchers caution that “a fragment from an extraterrestrial or terrestrial spacecraft cannot be discounted with absolute certainty” – pointing out what looks like wheels, an axle and a debris field photographed in a different part of the Gale Crater. The authors said that over time a similar debris field connected to the spikes may have been eroded. Prof Richard Armstrong, the first author of the paper who works at Aston University, Birmingham, speaking to The Telegraph, said, “There is no way of proving for certain what the spikes are but the balance of the evidence would suggest ‘sand spikes’ resulting from seismic activity on Mars. I suspect the enigmatic ‘wheels’ are a separate phenomenon. Mars images often show strange formations and features which ‘look like’ familiar objects.” WATCH | These pictures of Earth from Mars show there's no 'Planet B' for us “Any debris field on Mars would certainly suffer erosion over time, especially from wind," he added. In the journal, the authors have stated, “Given that possibly 10 or more craft have crashed upon the surface, coupled with the jettison of equipment associated with landing the rovers, it is possible the spikes and its substrate are human-made and consist of debris that fell onto the surface of Gale Crater. Nevertheless, no debris field is evident and no evidence of any additional debris that may have originated on Earth." “Given its small size and that there are no known human-made analogues and no logical explanation as to what purpose these spikes may serve, it does not seem likely these specimens are the remnants of craft or equipment that fell into Gale Crater. One can only speculate about extraterrestrial origins," they added. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Scientists suggest alien spaceship 'may have crash-landed on Mars’

<p>Around 2,500 tourists were evacuated from Corfu, a popular Greek island, after wildfires spread, said a spokesman for the fire department on Monday (July 24).</p>

<p>Yannis Artopios said that fires have been raging in the north of the island as 2,466 people were evacuated overnight between Sunday and Monday, but no hotels or houses suffered destruction so far.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Corfu has been the latest island of Greece to have issued an evacuation order, as the country fights wildfires.</p>

<p>In the photos shared on social media, flames are seen engulfing Corfu. Fire also broke out in the northern part of the island, which is seen as a destination popular with British tourists.</p>

<p>This comes after around 19,000 people were also evacuated from the island of Rhodes, which was also engulfed by fire. A lot of people were forced to flee their hotels as the wildfires continued to spread from the centre of the Greek island.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-battles-wildfires-for-fifth-day-amid-heatwave-618194">Greece battles wildfires for fifth day amid heatwave</a></p>

<h2><strong>Greece battles with searing heat</strong></h2>

<p>For days now, Greece has been battling with searing heat as temperatures exceed 40C across the nation, and fires continue to blaze for nearly a week in some areas.</p>

<p>On Monday, a planned national holiday was cancelled "in view of the extraordinary conditions prevailing in the country due to the fires", said the Greek presidency.</p>

<p>Greece's Emergency Communications Service on Sunday evening had issued evacuation orders for various areas of Corfu.</p>

<p>People living in the areas of Santa, Megoula, Porta, Palia, Perithia and Sinies on Corfu island were asked to evacuate. A government official said that the boats in the area were dispatched to evacuate residents by sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Corfu and Rhodes, which have been battling wildfires, are popular tourist destinations which are thronged by hundreds of thousands of Brits every year.</p>

<p>"We are in the seventh day of the fire and it hasn't been controlled," said Rhodes Deputy Mayor Konstantinos Taraslias, while speaking to state broadcaster ERT. Tourists were forced to spend their nights on the floors of the airport, waiting for repatriation flights.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Greek wildfire in Rhode island forces largest-ever fire evacuation</strong></p>

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<p>"It was quite a bit of a struggle on the beach with the smoke," stated John Hope, a tourist from Manchester, England.</p>

<p>Flights departing for Rhodes were cancelled by tour operators Jet2, TUI and Corendon cancelled.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ryanair stated that its flights to and from Rhodes were normally operating. Chief Financial Officer Neil Sorahan said that the situation was being monitored by the airline on Monday.</p>

<p>"We have a lot of customers there who want to get home. We're not going to leave them behind so we'll travel back in and out. It's not necessary at this period in time (to put on more flights), we're letting people book onto earlier flights," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Around 2,500 tourists were evacuated from Corfu, a popular Greek island, after wildfires spread, said a spokesman for the fire department on Monday (July 24). Yannis Artopios said that fires have been raging in the north of the island as 2,466 people were evacuated overnight between Sunday and Monday, but no hotels or houses suffered destruction so far.

Around 2,500 tourists were evacuated from Corfu, a popular Greek island, after wildfires spread, said a spokesman for the fire department on Monday (July 24). Yannis Artopios said that fires have been raging in the north of the island as 2,466 people were evacuated overnight between Sunday and Monday, but no hotels or houses suffered destruction so far. Corfu has been the latest island of Greece to have issued an evacuation order, as the country fights wildfires. In the photos shared on social media, flames are seen engulfing Corfu. Fire also broke out in the northern part of the island, which is seen as a destination popular with British tourists. This comes after around 19,000 people were also evacuated from the island of Rhodes, which was also engulfed by fire. A lot of people were forced to flee their hotels as the wildfires continued to spread from the centre of the Greek island. ALSO READ | Greece battles wildfires for fifth day amid heatwave Greece battles with searing heat For days now, Greece has been battling with searing heat as temperatures exceed 40C across the nation, and fires continue to blaze for nearly a week in some areas. On Monday, a planned national holiday was cancelled "in view of the extraordinary conditions prevailing in the country due to the fires", said the Greek presidency. Greece's Emergency Communications Service on Sunday evening had issued evacuation orders for various areas of Corfu. People living in the areas of Santa, Megoula, Porta, Palia, Perithia and Sinies on Corfu island were asked to evacuate. A government official said that the boats in the area were dispatched to evacuate residents by sea. Corfu and Rhodes, which have been battling wildfires, are popular tourist destinations which are thronged by hundreds of thousands of Brits every year. "We are in the seventh day of the fire and it hasn't been controlled," said Rhodes Deputy Mayor Konstantinos Taraslias, while speaking to state broadcaster ERT. Tourists were forced to spend their nights on the floors of the airport, waiting for repatriation flights. WATCH | Greek wildfire in Rhode island forces largest-ever fire evacuation "It was quite a bit of a struggle on the beach with the smoke," stated John Hope, a tourist from Manchester, England. Flights departing for Rhodes were cancelled by tour operators Jet2, TUI and Corendon cancelled. Ryanair stated that its flights to and from Rhodes were normally operating. Chief Financial Officer Neil Sorahan said that the situation was being monitored by the airline on Monday. "We have a lot of customers there who want to get home. We're not going to leave them behind so we'll travel back in and out. It's not necessary at this period in time (to put on more flights), we're letting people book onto earlier flights," he said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Around 2,500 tourists evacuated from Greek island of Corfu amid raging wildfires

<p>A woman, who was travelling on a Spirit Airlines flight&nbsp;in the United States, made a&nbsp;complaint about&nbsp;being forced to pee on the floor of the aeroplane after she was not given access to the lavatory for hours. The incident was recorded by a cabin crew member and later shared on social media, which sparked outrage among netizens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is not the first time such unruly behaviour has been reported on planes. The spate of such incidents has only increased, with passengers opening emergency exit doors, assaulting crew members and even allegedly peeing on fellow passengers.</p>

<p>In this another bizarre incident, a woman stated that she was "forced to urinate" mid-air on the flight since the airline staff did not allow her to use the restroom of the plane for several hours, according to a report published in &nbsp;View From The Wing.</p>

<p>The incident occurred on a flight operated by US-based Spirit Airlines. According to the outlet, the woman stated that she was made to wait for two hours and "couldn't hold it anymore". Hence, she was forced to urinate on the aircraft's floor and the incident's video was recorded by one of the cabin crew members.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-register-case-in-connection-to-call-that-threatened-hijack-of-flight-to-tel-aviv-616255">Delhi police register case over call warning of possible hijack of flight to Tel Aviv</a></p>

<p>"07/20/2023 An African American on board a flight @SpiritAirlines urinates on the floor because she doesn't want to wait for them to open the lavatory after takeoff. The flight attendants, meanwhile, tell her she should drink water 'because your pee smells bad'," read the caption of the video.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Netizens call the situation 'disgusting'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>After the video was posted on social media, it left many viewers outraged who called the situation "disgusting" and a sign of "civilizational decadence". In the video, which was later pulled down by Twitter, the woman is seen squatting on the floor of the aeroplane and engaging in a heated argument with the flight's crew members, who as per reports, asked her to consume water to mask the smell of her urine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's downright disgusting," commented a user. "Even my cat is much cleaner and patiently waits for her litter to be changed," said another user. A third person stated, "Every day brings its share of civilizational decadence."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Argentina 'death flight' plane returned from US</strong></p>

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<p>No comments were made by Spirit Airlines on the matter yet. &nbsp;This is not the first time such an incident has occurred on a flight. In 2018, a passenger travelling in Wizz Air had crouched down and urinated on the floor of the plane after she was informed the lavatory was not operational as the plane was being refuelled, according to a report published in UK's Metro.&nbsp;</p>

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A woman, who was travelling on a Spirit Airlines flight in the United States, made a complaint about being forced to pee on the floor of the aeroplane after she was not given access to the lavatory for hours.

A woman, who was travelling on a Spirit Airlines flight in the United States, made a complaint about being forced to pee on the floor of the aeroplane after she was not given access to the lavatory for hours. The incident was recorded by a cabin crew member and later shared on social media, which sparked outrage among netizens. It is not the first time such unruly behaviour has been reported on planes. The spate of such incidents has only increased, with passengers opening emergency exit doors, assaulting crew members and even allegedly peeing on fellow passengers. In this another bizarre incident, a woman stated that she was "forced to urinate" mid-air on the flight since the airline staff did not allow her to use the restroom of the plane for several hours, according to a report published in View From The Wing. The incident occurred on a flight operated by US-based Spirit Airlines. According to the outlet, the woman stated that she was made to wait for two hours and "couldn't hold it anymore". Hence, she was forced to urinate on the aircraft's floor and the incident's video was recorded by one of the cabin crew members. ALSO READ | Delhi police register case over call warning of possible hijack of flight to Tel Aviv "07/20/2023 An African American on board a flight @SpiritAirlines urinates on the floor because she doesn't want to wait for them to open the lavatory after takeoff. The flight attendants, meanwhile, tell her she should drink water 'because your pee smells bad'," read the caption of the video. Netizens call the situation 'disgusting' After the video was posted on social media, it left many viewers outraged who called the situation "disgusting" and a sign of "civilizational decadence". In the video, which was later pulled down by Twitter, the woman is seen squatting on the floor of the aeroplane and engaging in a heated argument with the flight's crew members, who as per reports, asked her to consume water to mask the smell of her urine. "It's downright disgusting," commented a user. "Even my cat is much cleaner and patiently waits for her litter to be changed," said another user. A third person stated, "Every day brings its share of civilizational decadence." WATCH | Argentina 'death flight' plane returned from US No comments were made by Spirit Airlines on the matter yet. This is not the first time such an incident has occurred on a flight. In 2018, a passenger travelling in Wizz Air had crouched down and urinated on the floor of the plane after she was informed the lavatory was not operational as the plane was being refuelled, according to a report published in UK's Metro. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Woman urinates on floor of plane, alleges airline did not let her use washroom

7 Best Cities To Go Shopping In The World

This city is the best place to go shopping for high-quality leather at affordable prices. One can get the best leather shoes at Mocasines Guido. Calle Murillo stands out with its tailoring services.

Individual boutiques, tourist shops and world-class bargains, this is what the shopping streets of Hong Kong offer visitors. In the Global Shopper City Index, Hong Kong claimed the title of best Asian shopping city.




In the best shops in Paris, shoppers don't get clothes, they purchase lifestyles. One can purchase designer goods at reduced prices. The city offers travellers many opportunities to splurge with secondhand bookshops, florists and cafes.

Kuala Lumpur hosts three of the world’s 10 largest malls which include 1 Utama, the fourth-largest mall in the world which has more than 650 shops, a huge rooftop garden with 500 varieties of exotic plants and the largest indoor rock climbing facility in Asia.

Ranked as the top European shopping city in Globe Shopper Index, London is the world’s top fashion shopping destination. It outstrips all European cities in the availability of international and local brands and the number of shops.

The city houses a mammoth flagship store of the global chain Isetan in Shinjuku which has eight separate buildings stretched along two blocks. It is also a heaven for foodies, selling Japanese bento boxes, French pastries as well as macaroons.

The best city ranked for shopping, New York boasts vintage shops, designer houses and showrooms. One can purchase pieces from every era of the last century of fashion. The city is also known for its sample sale stampedes that occur at ungodly hours and attract shoppers in huge numbers.

<p>It was the year 1960. India had&nbsp;been free of British Raj for 13 years now.&nbsp;Transistor radios had made their way into society and were now accompanying every passing bicycle. Ameen Sayani, the star voice of All India Radio, could be heard in every house, corner shop and street. Radio was not just immensely popular but had become a quintessential way of life for Indians.<br />
<br />
A few years back, the citizens of the country&nbsp;gathered&nbsp;at&nbsp;every nook&nbsp;and cranny&nbsp;to listen to Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru as he delivered&nbsp;his historic Tryst With Destiny speech, only to concur with him 'At the stroke of the midnight hour when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom.'<br />
<br />
Although it was the dawn of an independent India, radio was in its golden era – brimming with shows, plays and music – after playing a significant role in relaying the news and important messages at a time when the world was at war with itself and India burned under the British dominance.</p>

<h2><strong>Radio in war times</strong></h2>

<p>In its initial years, radio emerged as an important tool to communicate the developments of the battlefield amid waging wars. It found its commercial base just after World War I and the first radio stations in the world were set up in the 1940s.<br />
<br />
In India, the first commercial transmission of radio was sent out by the Radio Club of Bombay in 1923. The Calcutta Radio Club started the same year and a year after Madras got its radio broadcasts with the Madras Presidency Radio Club.</p>

<p>The radio saw fascination and excitement reach its peak around the new technology.&nbsp;However, radio programming gained stability after the government stepped into the Indian State Broadcasting Service (ISBS) in 1930 and started its operations on an experimental basis. On June 8, 1936, ISBS finally became what is known today as All India Radio (AIR).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/in-a-transitioning-world-order-what-are-indias-chances-617734">In a transitioning world order, what are India's chances?</a></p>

<h2><strong>Radio as a tool for war and propaganda</strong></h2>

<p>In 1936, the first daily news bulletin was introduced. But the need of expanding it to a national network and external service grew during World War II. Radio was being used for Nazi propaganda and there was a sudden need to counter it. Hence, the practice of broadcasting all news bulletins from one central newsroom started. Around 27 bulletins were being broadcasted every day during the war years.<br />
<br />
In this chaotic environment and with All India Radio emerging as a propaganda machine for British imperialism, Congress freedom fighters were left with no choice but to start their short-lived underground 'Congress Radio' which was broadcasted from an unknown location in Bombay at a depth of 41.78 metres.<br />
<br />
On the other hand, Subhas&nbsp;Chandra Bose spearheaded his own radio service “Azad Hind Radio” as part of Germany’s radio service. This German-funded radio first aired on 7 January 1942 and was aimed at showing solidarity with Indians living abroad. Radio, thus, became a tool for warring nations, rebellious leaders and propagandists.</p>

<h2><strong>Age of Akashvani</strong></h2>

<p>AIR adopted the name Akashvani in 1956. The name, which was derived from the title of Rabindranath Tagore's composition, was used interchangeably with All India Radio, only to become an exclusive name on 3 May 2023. The Akashvani jingle evokes a lot of memories for many Indians whose childhood and youth were filled with these tunes.<br />
<br />
Czech Republic's Walter Kaufmann, who had come to India after fleeing Nazi persecution, had composed the jingle. Today, AIR has a network of more than 262 radio stations and is available in 92 per cent of the country, reaching almost all its population. It has been broadcast in 23 languages and 146 dialects to cater to the diverse demographics of India.<br />
<br />
Explaining its vast outreach while speaking to WION, AIR Additional Director General Dr Atul Kumar Tiwary said, “AIR continues to maintain its hold among its traditional base of citizens who have grown up listening to the news and programs in a simple, listener-friendly format. Its USP is ABC of the basics of broadcast - Authenticity, Brevity and Clarity. AIR has coverage of 92 per cent of the area and 95 per cent of the population across the country. It is broadcast in 23 Indian languages which are in the eighth schedule of the constitution, 179 dialects and 11 foreign languages.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Pro-democracy radio shuts shop in Hong Kong</strong></p>

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<p>“In the small cities, the tribal, remote and hilly terrains, still it is the most effective means of keeping one informed, educated and entertained and that too in the local language. It's affordable and acceptable among the community as a group means of awareness which adds value to its utility. Can you imagine a private player broadcasting in Arunachal Pradesh or the hilly terrains of Uttarakhand or the deserts of Jaisalmer or the ravines of Chambal or Port Blair? Well, the maths is simple,” he added.<br />
<br />
Since its advent, radio remained a compulsory medium for the consumption of news, cricket or entertainment and made it possible for historic announcements like Nehru's independence speech or Indira Gandhi's Emergency Declaration, or celebratory moments like Kapil Dev’s 175-run knock in the 1983 World Cup&nbsp;to reach the masses.&nbsp;</p>

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It was the year 1960. India had been free of British Raj for 13 years now. Transistor radios had made their way into society and were now accompanying every passing bicycle.

It was the year 1960. India had been free of British Raj for 13 years now. Transistor radios had made their way into society and were now accompanying every passing bicycle. Ameen Sayani, the star voice of All India Radio, could be heard in every house, corner shop and street. Radio was not just immensely popular but had become a quintessential way of life for Indians. A few years back, the citizens of the country gathered at every nook and cranny to listen to Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru as he delivered his historic Tryst With Destiny speech, only to concur with him 'At the stroke of the midnight hour when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom.' Although it was the dawn of an independent India, radio was in its golden era – brimming with shows, plays and music – after playing a significant role in relaying the news and important messages at a time when the world was at war with itself and India burned under the British dominance. Radio in war times In its initial years, radio emerged as an important tool to communicate the developments of the battlefield amid waging wars. It found its commercial base just after World War I and the first radio stations in the world were set up in the 1940s. In India, the first commercial transmission of radio was sent out by the Radio Club of Bombay in 1923. The Calcutta Radio Club started the same year and a year after Madras got its radio broadcasts with the Madras Presidency Radio Club. The radio saw fascination and excitement reach its peak around the new technology. However, radio programming gained stability after the government stepped into the Indian State Broadcasting Service (ISBS) in 1930 and started its operations on an experimental basis. On June 8, 1936, ISBS finally became what is known today as All India Radio (AIR). ALSO READ | In a transitioning world order, what are India's chances? Radio as a tool for war and propaganda In 1936, the first daily news bulletin was introduced. But the need of expanding it to a national network and external service grew during World War II. Radio was being used for Nazi propaganda and there was a sudden need to counter it. Hence, the practice of broadcasting all news bulletins from one central newsroom started. Around 27 bulletins were being broadcasted every day during the war years. In this chaotic environment and with All India Radio emerging as a propaganda machine for British imperialism, Congress freedom fighters were left with no choice but to start their short-lived underground 'Congress Radio' which was broadcasted from an unknown location in Bombay at a depth of 41.78 metres. On the other hand, Subhas Chandra Bose spearheaded his own radio service “Azad Hind Radio” as part of Germany’s radio service. This German-funded radio first aired on 7 January 1942 and was aimed at showing solidarity with Indians living abroad. Radio, thus, became a tool for warring nations, rebellious leaders and propagandists. Age of Akashvani AIR adopted the name Akashvani in 1956. The name, which was derived from the title of Rabindranath Tagore's composition, was used interchangeably with All India Radio, only to become an exclusive name on 3 May 2023. The Akashvani jingle evokes a lot of memories for many Indians whose childhood and youth were filled with these tunes. Czech Republic's Walter Kaufmann, who had come to India after fleeing Nazi persecution, had composed the jingle. Today, AIR has a network of more than 262 radio stations and is available in 92 per cent of the country, reaching almost all its population. It has been broadcast in 23 languages and 146 dialects to cater to the diverse demographics of India. Explaining its vast outreach while speaking to WION, AIR Additional Director General Dr Atul Kumar Tiwary said, “AIR continues to maintain its hold among its traditional base of citizens who have grown up listening to the news and programs in a simple, listener-friendly format. Its USP is ABC of the basics of broadcast - Authenticity, Brevity and Clarity. AIR has coverage of 92 per cent of the area and 95 per cent of the population across the country. It is broadcast in 23 Indian languages which are in the eighth schedule of the constitution, 179 dialects and 11 foreign languages.” WATCH | Pro-democracy radio shuts shop in Hong Kong “In the small cities, the tribal, remote and hilly terrains, still it is the most effective means of keeping one informed, educated and entertained and that too in the local language. It's affordable and acceptable among the community as a group means of awareness which adds value to its utility. Can you imagine a private player broadcasting in Arunachal Pradesh or the hilly terrains of Uttarakhand or the deserts of Jaisalmer or the ravines of Chambal or Port Blair? Well, the maths is simple,” he added. Since its advent, radio remained a compulsory medium for the consumption of news, cricket or entertainment and made it possible for historic announcements like Nehru's independence speech or Indira Gandhi's Emergency Declaration, or celebratory moments like Kapil Dev’s 175-run knock in the 1983 World Cup to reach the masses. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained: Tracing the journey of radio from colonial British Raj to independent and multi-lingual India

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin for the first time met and held talks with his closest ally, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko&nbsp;since the latter played a major role in brokering a deal which led to the end of mutiny by Wagner fighters in Moscow last month.</p>

<p>On Sunday, a video posted by Lukashenko's press service showed that the two global leaders arrived together at Konstantinovsky palace in Saint Petersburg ahead of scheduled talks.</p>

<p>Putin said that his talks with Lukashenko will continue for two days. "I changed some of my plans," said Putin while meeting Lukashenko at Konstantinovsky Palace. "We will spend one and a half, two days (for talks)," Putin was quoted by the TASS news agency as saying.</p>

<p>During the meeting, Putin informed Lukashenko that an ongoing Ukrainian counteroffensive to push back forces of Russia from Ukraine has "failed", as per the Russian news agencies.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-warns-poland-will-act-to-agression-against-belarus-618183">Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Poland: ‘Will act to aggression against Belarus’</a></p>

<p>"There is no counteroffensive," said Lukashenko, according to the TASS news agency, as Putin interrupted him by saying, "There is one, but it has failed.”</p>

<p>Putin further stated that he will discuss the issue of security in Eastern Europe with Lukashenko in their first face-to-face talks. "We will of course talk about security in our region," Putin said in televised remarks.</p>

<h2><strong>Wagner mercenaries staying in central Belarus:&nbsp;Lukashenko</strong></h2>

<p>Lukashenko stated that the Russian Wagner mercenaries are being kept in central Belarus and the situation with the notorious fighters present on its territory is being "controlled" by Minsk.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Why is the Crimea Bridge important for Putin?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-is-the-crimea-bridge-important-for-putin-618051/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"They are asking to go West, ask me for permission... to go on a trip to Warsaw, to Rzeszow," said Lukashenko while speaking to Putin. "But of course, I am keeping them in central Belarus, like we agreed. We are controlling what is happening (with Wagner)," he stated, adding: "They are in a bad mood."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin,&nbsp;Lukashenko greet crowd together</strong></h2>

<p>Putin and Lukashenko greeted&nbsp;a crowd of people in Kronstadt town on Kotlin Island in Russia together, marking&nbsp;a rare walkabout. A video of&nbsp;Putin and Lukashenko posing together for photographs with people, as&nbsp;bodyguards stood nearby, was posted by Russia's Kommersant newspaper.</p>

<p>Speaking about quarantine rules which Putin has been following since the pandemic, the Russian leader&nbsp;replied,&nbsp;"People are more important than quarantine."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin for the first time met and held talks with his closest ally, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko since the latter played a major role in brokering a deal which led to the end of mutiny by Wagner fighters in Moscow last month.

Russian President Vladimir Putin for the first time met and held talks with his closest ally, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko since the latter played a major role in brokering a deal which led to the end of mutiny by Wagner fighters in Moscow last month. On Sunday, a video posted by Lukashenko's press service showed that the two global leaders arrived together at Konstantinovsky palace in Saint Petersburg ahead of scheduled talks. Putin said that his talks with Lukashenko will continue for two days. "I changed some of my plans," said Putin while meeting Lukashenko at Konstantinovsky Palace. "We will spend one and a half, two days (for talks)," Putin was quoted by the TASS news agency as saying. During the meeting, Putin informed Lukashenko that an ongoing Ukrainian counteroffensive to push back forces of Russia from Ukraine has "failed", as per the Russian news agencies. ALSO READ | Russian President Vladimir Putin warns Poland: ‘Will act to aggression against Belarus’ "There is no counteroffensive," said Lukashenko, according to the TASS news agency, as Putin interrupted him by saying, "There is one, but it has failed.” Putin further stated that he will discuss the issue of security in Eastern Europe with Lukashenko in their first face-to-face talks. "We will of course talk about security in our region," Putin said in televised remarks. Wagner mercenaries staying in central Belarus: Lukashenko Lukashenko stated that the Russian Wagner mercenaries are being kept in central Belarus and the situation with the notorious fighters present on its territory is being "controlled" by Minsk. WATCH | Why is the Crimea Bridge important for Putin? "They are asking to go West, ask me for permission... to go on a trip to Warsaw, to Rzeszow," said Lukashenko while speaking to Putin. "But of course, I am keeping them in central Belarus, like we agreed. We are controlling what is happening (with Wagner)," he stated, adding: "They are in a bad mood." Putin, Lukashenko greet crowd together Putin and Lukashenko greeted a crowd of people in Kronstadt town on Kotlin Island in Russia together, marking a rare walkabout. A video of Putin and Lukashenko posing together for photographs with people, as bodyguards stood nearby, was posted by Russia's Kommersant newspaper. Speaking about quarantine rules which Putin has been following since the pandemic, the Russian leader replied, "People are more important than quarantine." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin meets Lukashenko for first time since Wagner mutiny

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in wide-ranging talks with visiting Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Friday (July 21) which largely focused on improvising economic and strategic cooperation and signing of&nbsp;agreements, which included setting up of UPI in the island nation as well as constructing a land bridge which will connect the two nations and provide land access to Trincomalee and Colombo ports.</p>

<p>Wickremesinghe, who is on a two-day visit to India, landed in New Delhi on Thursday (July 20). This is the first Indian trip of any senior Sri Lankan leader after the nation faced an unprecedented economic crisis last year.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> warmly welcomes President <a href="https://twitter.com/RW_UNP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RW_UNP</a> of Sri Lanka at the Hyderabad House ahead of the bilateral talks.<br />
<br />
An opportunity to review and lend further momentum to the long-standing 🇮🇳-🇱🇰 ties, as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year. <a href="https://t.co/Ee6kikEpjZ">pic.twitter.com/Ee6kikEpjZ</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1682267009806110721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p>Financial assistance of USD 4 billion was extended by India to Sri Lanka, which included lines of credit for purchasing fuel and food last year when the country suffered an economic crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-kept-quiet-while-manipur-was-burning-opposition-slams-govt-617849">‘Modi kept quiet while Manipur was burning’: Opposition slams govt</a></p>

<p>The Indian government had also provided guarantees to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to assist the country in securing a USD 2.9 billion bailout package.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Delegation level talks led by PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and President <a href="https://twitter.com/RW_UNP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RW_UNP</a> get underway.<br />
<br />
A wide-ranging agenda on the table covering areas of energy security, economic and financial linkages, defence &amp; security cooperation and people to people ties. <a href="https://t.co/x7irs8BPsw">pic.twitter.com/x7irs8BPsw</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1682282468072914944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"An opportunity to review and lend further momentum to the long-standing India-Sri Lanka ties as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year," said External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Twitter, just before the two leaders began talks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the tweets that followed, Bagchi said, "A wide-ranging agenda on the table covering areas of energy security, economic and financial linkages, defence &amp; security co-operation and people to people ties. Talks will focus on promoting mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors and strengthening connectivity in all its dimensions between our two countries."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Bolstering our ties with a close maritime partner.<br />
<br />
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and President <a href="https://twitter.com/RW_UNP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RW_UNP</a> hold bilateral discussions.<br />
<br />
Talks will focus on promoting mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors and strengthening connectivity in all its dimensions between our two countries. <a href="https://t.co/0RZpCXqyHR">pic.twitter.com/0RZpCXqyHR</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1682273940763447296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Network-to-network agreements for UPI in Sri Lanka</strong></h2>

<p>India and Sri Lanka exchanged several agreements in the presence of Indian PM Modi and Sri Lankan President Wickremesinghe in New Delhi. One of the agreements finalised was for&nbsp;network-to-network agreements for the acceptance of UPI in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking at the joint conference after the talks, PM Modi said, "We agree on the enhancement of air connectivity between India and Sri Lanka. To increase trade and travel by people, we have taken the decision to start passenger ferry services between Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu and Kankesanturai in Sri Lanka."</p>

<p>"Sri Lanka also has an important place in both India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and 'SAGAR' vision. Today we shared our views on bilateral, regional and international issues. We believe that the security interests and development of India and Sri Lanka are intertwined. The agreement signed to launch UPI in Sri Lanka, will increase Fintech connectivity," he further stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe to meet PM Modi, to seek 'innocent passage' for fishermen</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lankan-president-ranil-wickremesinghe-to-meet-pm-modi-to-seek-innocent-passage-for-fishermen-617869/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>PM Modi, while talking about the issue of fishermen being faced by the two countries, said,"Today, we also discussed the issues related to the livelihood of fishermen. We agree that we should go ahead on the matter with a humane approach. We also spoke about reconstruction and reconciliation in Sri Lanka. President Wickremesinghe told me about his inclusive approach. We hope that the Sri Lankan Govt will fulfil the aspirations of Tamils and take forward the process for equality, justice and peace. We hope it will fulfil its commitment to the implementation of the 13th Amendment and Provincial Council Elections."</p>

<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe said,&nbsp;"I have congratulated Prime Minister Modi on the great strides India continues to make under his leadership in economic infrastructure and technological progress in ensuring growth and prosperity for the people of India. We believe that India's growth will be beneficial to the neighbourhood and the Indian Ocean region."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have also appraised Prime Minister Modi of the extraordinary challenges that Sri Lanka has experienced in economic, social and political terms in the past year and of the reform measures I have spearheaded on a number of fronts in overcoming these challenges. I have conveyed to Prime Minister Modi and to the government and the people of India a profound appreciation for the solidarity and support rendered to Sri Lanka in what was undoubtedly the most challenging period in our modern history," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before the high-level talks between the two top leaders, Wickremesinghe was called on by India's NSA Ajit Doval and security cooperation between the two nations was discussed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday held talks with Wickremesinghe and discussed various bilateral issues.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in wide-ranging talks with visiting Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Friday (July 21) which largely focused on improvising economic and strategic cooperation and signing of agreements, which included setting up of UPI in the island nation as well as constructing a land bridge which will connect the two nations and provide land access to Trincomalee and Colombo ports.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in wide-ranging talks with visiting Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Friday (July 21) which largely focused on improvising economic and strategic cooperation and signing of agreements, which included setting up of UPI in the island nation as well as constructing a land bridge which will connect the two nations and provide land access to Trincomalee and Colombo ports. Wickremesinghe, who is on a two-day visit to India, landed in New Delhi on Thursday (July 20). This is the first Indian trip of any senior Sri Lankan leader after the nation faced an unprecedented economic crisis last year. PM @narendramodi warmly welcomes President @RW_UNP of Sri Lanka at the Hyderabad House ahead of the bilateral talks. An opportunity to review and lend further momentum to the long-standing 🇮🇳-🇱🇰 ties, as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year. pic.twitter.com/Ee6kikEpjZ — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) July 21, 2023 × Financial assistance of USD 4 billion was extended by India to Sri Lanka, which included lines of credit for purchasing fuel and food last year when the country suffered an economic crisis. ALSO READ | ‘Modi kept quiet while Manipur was burning’: Opposition slams govt The Indian government had also provided guarantees to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to assist the country in securing a USD 2.9 billion bailout package. Delegation level talks led by PM @narendramodi and President @RW_UNP get underway. A wide-ranging agenda on the table covering areas of energy security, economic and financial linkages, defence & security cooperation and people to people ties. pic.twitter.com/x7irs8BPsw — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) July 21, 2023 × "An opportunity to review and lend further momentum to the long-standing India-Sri Lanka ties as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year," said External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Twitter, just before the two leaders began talks. In the tweets that followed, Bagchi said, "A wide-ranging agenda on the table covering areas of energy security, economic and financial linkages, defence & security co-operation and people to people ties. Talks will focus on promoting mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors and strengthening connectivity in all its dimensions between our two countries." Bolstering our ties with a close maritime partner. PM @narendramodi and President @RW_UNP hold bilateral discussions. Talks will focus on promoting mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors and strengthening connectivity in all its dimensions between our two countries. pic.twitter.com/0RZpCXqyHR — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) July 21, 2023 × Network-to-network agreements for UPI in Sri Lanka India and Sri Lanka exchanged several agreements in the presence of Indian PM Modi and Sri Lankan President Wickremesinghe in New Delhi. One of the agreements finalised was for network-to-network agreements for the acceptance of UPI in Sri Lanka. Speaking at the joint conference after the talks, PM Modi said, "We agree on the enhancement of air connectivity between India and Sri Lanka. To increase trade and travel by people, we have taken the decision to start passenger ferry services between Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu and Kankesanturai in Sri Lanka." "Sri Lanka also has an important place in both India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and 'SAGAR' vision. Today we shared our views on bilateral, regional and international issues. We believe that the security interests and development of India and Sri Lanka are intertwined. The agreement signed to launch UPI in Sri Lanka, will increase Fintech connectivity," he further stated. WATCH | Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe to meet PM Modi, to seek 'innocent passage' for fishermen PM Modi, while talking about the issue of fishermen being faced by the two countries, said,"Today, we also discussed the issues related to the livelihood of fishermen. We agree that we should go ahead on the matter with a humane approach. We also spoke about reconstruction and reconciliation in Sri Lanka. President Wickremesinghe told me about his inclusive approach. We hope that the Sri Lankan Govt will fulfil the aspirations of Tamils and take forward the process for equality, justice and peace. We hope it will fulfil its commitment to the implementation of the 13th Amendment and Provincial Council Elections." Meanwhile, Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe said, "I have congratulated Prime Minister Modi on the great strides India continues to make under his leadership in economic infrastructure and technological progress in ensuring growth and prosperity for the people of India. We believe that India's growth will be beneficial to the neighbourhood and the Indian Ocean region." "I have also appraised Prime Minister Modi of the extraordinary challenges that Sri Lanka has experienced in economic, social and political terms in the past year and of the reform measures I have spearheaded on a number of fronts in overcoming these challenges. I have conveyed to Prime Minister Modi and to the government and the people of India a profound appreciation for the solidarity and support rendered to Sri Lanka in what was undoubtedly the most challenging period in our modern history," he added. Before the high-level talks between the two top leaders, Wickremesinghe was called on by India's NSA Ajit Doval and security cooperation between the two nations was discussed. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday held talks with Wickremesinghe and discussed various bilateral issues. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India's UPI to power Sri Lanka's fintech connectivity amid island nation's economic revival

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