<p>According to Central Statistics Office, India's economy is expected to contract 7.7 per cent in the current financial year ending in March as finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman&nbsp;gets set to present the <strong>Union Budget 2020-21</strong> on February amid the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2021-government-mulls-covid-cess-to-boost-revenue-356420">Also Read:&nbsp;Union Budget 2021: Government mulls COVID cess to boost revenue</a></p>

<p><strong>India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman</strong>&nbsp;is widely expected to increase spending on infrastructure and boost manufacturing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian economy had contracted 23.9 per cent in the April-June quarter last year as the country entered lockdown which reduced to 7.5 per cent in the September quarter as many sectors of the economy opened.</p>

<p>The Indian economy had grown 4.2 per cent in the fiscal year 2019-20. India is one of the worst-hit country due to the virus with over 10.4 million cases and over 151,525 fatalities with the economy hit hard due to the virus with millions losing jobs.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2021-goes-paperless-hard-copies-not-to-be-printed-for-first-time-in-history-356417">Also Read:&nbsp;Union Budget 2021 goes paperless</a></p>

<p>India is among the <strong>worst-performing economies</strong> in the world with the country entering a "technical recession" for the first time since 1947 as the hospitality and construction sectors nosedived amid the virus lockdown.</p>

<p>India's farming sector continued to grow amid the virus crisis even as the manufacturing sector also increased during the July-September quarter after plunging nearly 40 per cent during the lockdown period last year.</p>

<p>The International Monetary Fund(IMF) had predicted India's economy would contract 10.3 per cent in 2020. A report by Oxford Economics had earlier projected India's annual output would be 12 per cent below pre-virus levels through 2025 as the country continues to grapple with the virus.</p>

<p>The government last year had announced new measures to support the manufacturing sector and create jobs as the country faced a "technical recession" as India's Reserve Bank had said that "contraction is ebbing with gradual normalisation in activities and expected to be short-lived".</p>

<p>The RBI had asserted that Indian households and corporations continued to face financial stress.</p>


According to Central Statistics Office, India's economy is expected to contract 7.7 per cent in the current financial year ending in March as finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman gets set to present the Union Budget 2020-21 on February amid the coronavirus pandemic.

According to Central Statistics Office, India's economy is expected to contract 7.7 per cent in the current financial year ending in March as finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman gets set to present the Union Budget 2020-21 on February amid the coronavirus pandemic. Also Read: Union Budget 2021: Government mulls COVID cess to boost revenue India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman is widely expected to increase spending on infrastructure and boost manufacturing. The Indian economy had contracted 23.9 per cent in the April-June quarter last year as the country entered lockdown which reduced to 7.5 per cent in the September quarter as many sectors of the economy opened. The Indian economy had grown 4.2 per cent in the fiscal year 2019-20. India is one of the worst-hit country due to the virus with over 10.4 million cases and over 151,525 fatalities with the economy hit hard due to the virus with millions losing jobs. Also Read: Union Budget 2021 goes paperless India is among the worst-performing economies in the world with the country entering a "technical recession" for the first time since 1947 as the hospitality and construction sectors nosedived amid the virus lockdown. India's farming sector continued to grow amid the virus crisis even as the manufacturing sector also increased during the July-September quarter after plunging nearly 40 per cent during the lockdown period last year. The International Monetary Fund(IMF) had predicted India's economy would contract 10.3 per cent in 2020. A report by Oxford Economics had earlier projected India's annual output would be 12 per cent below pre-virus levels through 2025 as the country continues to grapple with the virus. The government last year had announced new measures to support the manufacturing sector and create jobs as the country faced a "technical recession" as India's Reserve Bank had said that "contraction is ebbing with gradual normalisation in activities and expected to be short-lived". The RBI had asserted that Indian households and corporations continued to face financial stress.

Union Budget 2021: India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman may increase spending on infrastructure and boost manufacturing

<p>According to reports, the government is mulling one-time coronavirus relief cess of upto 2 per cent to garner revenue in the <strong>Union Budget </strong>for 2021-22.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2021-goes-paperless-hard-copies-not-to-be-printed-for-first-time-in-history-356417">Also Read:&nbsp;Union Budget 2021 goes paperless; hard copies not to be printed</a></p>

<p>Reports say the cess will be imposed on taxable income on those who earn above Rs 10 lakh. The <strong>Indian Revenue Service</strong> (IRS) had last year proposed 4 per cent "Covid relief cess" in April as India entered lockdown.</p>

<p>IRS officers had said in its report that it could fetch the exchequer between ₹15,000 crore and ₹18,000 crore. The IRS had also proposed a new tax saving scheme "<strong>Covid savings certificates</strong>" for investments up to ₹2,50,000 with a 5-year lock-in period.</p>

<p>Experts had also proposed cess on tobacco products amid the pandemic. Several states had imposed COVID tax to boost revenue stream as health services felt the pressure.</p>

<p>The Jharkhand government had introduced<strong> COVID</strong> cess&nbsp;on minerals and the Delhi's Arvind <strong>Kejriwal</strong> government had imposed 70 per cent corona cess on liquor which was later withdrawn.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India is set to begin its vaccination drive on January 16 as Asia's third-largest economy has been gradually recovering from a coronavirus-induced recession as the virus shrank the economy in the last two quarters.</p>

<p>According to <strong>SBI</strong> (State Bank of India) research, the government would need Rs 21,000-27,000 crore to vaccinate 30 crore people in the first phase and would need another Rs 35,000-45,000 crore to vaccinate 50 crore people which is around 0.3-0.4 per cent of India's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).</p>

<p>The government will present its Budget on<strong> February 1</strong>.&nbsp;</p>


According to reports, the government is mulling one-time coronavirus relief cess of upto 2 per cent to garner revenue in the Union Budget for 2021-22. Also Read: Union Budget 2021 goes paperless; hard copies not to be printed Reports say the cess will be imposed on taxable income on those who earn above Rs 10 lakh.

According to reports, the government is mulling one-time coronavirus relief cess of upto 2 per cent to garner revenue in the Union Budget for 2021-22. Also Read: Union Budget 2021 goes paperless; hard copies not to be printed Reports say the cess will be imposed on taxable income on those who earn above Rs 10 lakh. The Indian Revenue Service (IRS) had last year proposed 4 per cent "Covid relief cess" in April as India entered lockdown. IRS officers had said in its report that it could fetch the exchequer between ₹15,000 crore and ₹18,000 crore. The IRS had also proposed a new tax saving scheme "Covid savings certificates" for investments up to ₹2,50,000 with a 5-year lock-in period. Experts had also proposed cess on tobacco products amid the pandemic. Several states had imposed COVID tax to boost revenue stream as health services felt the pressure. The Jharkhand government had introduced COVID cess on minerals and the Delhi's Arvind Kejriwal government had imposed 70 per cent corona cess on liquor which was later withdrawn. India is set to begin its vaccination drive on January 16 as Asia's third-largest economy has been gradually recovering from a coronavirus-induced recession as the virus shrank the economy in the last two quarters. According to SBI (State Bank of India) research, the government would need Rs 21,000-27,000 crore to vaccinate 30 crore people in the first phase and would need another Rs 35,000-45,000 crore to vaccinate 50 crore people which is around 0.3-0.4 per cent of India's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The government will present its Budget on February 1.

Union Budget 2021: Government mulls COVID cess to boost revenue

<p>Amid the coronavirus pandemic, the<strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2021-goes-paperless-hard-copies-not-to-be-printed-for-first-time-in-history-356417">Budget</a> session </strong>of Parliament will begin on January 29 with all COVID-related protocols including the shift system will be followed.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2021-government-needs-credible-sources-for-additional-revenue-to-boost-economy-356849">Also Read: Government needs credible sources for additional revenue to boost economy</a></p>

<p>The <strong>Budget session will on January 29</strong>. President Ram Nath <strong>Kovind</strong> will address the joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament. The session will conclude on April 8. Both Houses will adjourn on February 15 and meet again on March 8.</p>

<p>The Budget will be presented by the government on February 1. The <strong>Economic Survey</strong> would be tabled in the Lok Sabha on January 29 after the President's address, according to reports.</p>

<p>India's lower House the <strong>Lok Sabha </strong>and upper House the Rajya Sabha will operate in shifts with the Rajya Sabha meeting in the forenoon and Lok Sabha in the evening between 4 pm and 9 pm, according to <strong>COVID-19 </strong>protocol. The Lok Sabha will sit for five hours during the Budget session.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2021-government-mulls-covid-cess-to-boost-revenue-356420">Also Read: Union Budget 2021- Government mulls COVID cess to boost revenue</a></p>

<p>Question Hour will take place during the Budget session. &nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Lok Sabha secretariat, private members' business which usually takes place on Friday afternoons will also take place. The House members will be allowed to introduce their own bills which will be debated by the House.</p>

<p>Lok Sabha <strong>Speaker Om Birla</strong> had said earlier that the government will issue guidelines about the vaccination of parliamentarians before the start of the session.</p>

<p>Parliament members will need to compulsorily wear masks and maintain <strong>social distancing</strong> norms with everyone likely to undergo RT-PCR tests for coronavirus.</p>

<p>The Parliament officials will also undertake <strong>sanitisation</strong> of cars and other vehicles entering Parliament including various files.</p>


Amid the coronavirus pandemic, the Budget session of Parliament will begin on January 29 with all COVID-related protocols including the shift system will be followed.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, the Budget session of Parliament will begin on January 29 with all COVID-related protocols including the shift system will be followed. Also Read: Government needs credible sources for additional revenue to boost economy The Budget session will on January 29. President Ram Nath Kovind will address the joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament. The session will conclude on April 8. Both Houses will adjourn on February 15 and meet again on March 8. The Budget will be presented by the government on February 1. The Economic Survey would be tabled in the Lok Sabha on January 29 after the President's address, according to reports. India's lower House the Lok Sabha and upper House the Rajya Sabha will operate in shifts with the Rajya Sabha meeting in the forenoon and Lok Sabha in the evening between 4 pm and 9 pm, according to COVID-19 protocol. The Lok Sabha will sit for five hours during the Budget session. Also Read: Union Budget 2021- Government mulls COVID cess to boost revenue Question Hour will take place during the Budget session. According to Lok Sabha secretariat, private members' business which usually takes place on Friday afternoons will also take place. The House members will be allowed to introduce their own bills which will be debated by the House. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla had said earlier that the government will issue guidelines about the vaccination of parliamentarians before the start of the session. Parliament members will need to compulsorily wear masks and maintain social distancing norms with everyone likely to undergo RT-PCR tests for coronavirus. The Parliament officials will also undertake sanitisation of cars and other vehicles entering Parliament including various files.

Budget session of Parliament: Key dates, Covid-19 protocol & more

<p>The United Kingdom recorded over 100,000 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-in-netherlands-clash-with-police-for-third-consecutive-day-over-coronavirus-curfew-359503">coronavirus</a> deaths on Tuesday as PM Boris Johnson took "full responsibility" and expressed regret.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vaccine-shortage-leaves-strasbourg-clinic-at-standstill-359517/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"I am deeply sorry for every life that has been lost and, of course, as prime minister, I take full responsibility for everything that the government has done," PM Johnson said.</p>

<p>The death toll due to the virus in the UK reached 100,358 with over 3.7 million infected cases. Britain is the worst-hit country due to the virus in Europe. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson himself had tested positive for coronavirus and recovered later after self-isolating at Downing Street.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Boris Johnson in April last year had said Britain was now past the peak of its coronavirus outbreak, however, England entered its third lockdown amid a surge in virus cases.</p>

<p>The United Kingdom had recorded the highest official coronavirus death toll in Europe, overtaking Italy on May 5 last year with more than 32,000 deaths even as lockdown restrictions were eased in England with groups of up to six people allowed to meet from June 1 last year.</p>

<p>The UK had recorded its lowest daily COVID-19 death toll since March 22 last year with 55 deaths, however, in September last year the UK banned gatherings of more than six people over fears of a second wave. In November, the UK had recorded 598 deaths which was the highest since May 12.</p>

<p>In December, Britain became the first country to roll out the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine amid harsh lockdown restrictions.On December 19, PM Johnson&nbsp;imposed a lockdown on over 16 million people in England and reversed plans to ease curbs over Christmas as COVID-19 cases surged.</p>

<p>Just days before Christmas, the UK government announced that more areas would be moved into Tier 4 from Boxing Day from December 26 as Britain began its third COVID-19 lockdown on January 5 with citizens ordered to stay at home. PM Johnson had said recently that Britain would tighten its border controls to block new variants of COVID-19.</p>


The United Kingdom recorded over 100,000 coronavirus deaths on Tuesday as PM Boris Johnson took "full responsibility" and expressed regret. Watch: "I am deeply sorry for every life that has been lost and, of course, as prime minister, I take full responsibility for everything that the government has done," PM Johnson said.

The United Kingdom recorded over 100,000 coronavirus deaths on Tuesday as PM Boris Johnson took "full responsibility" and expressed regret. Watch: "I am deeply sorry for every life that has been lost and, of course, as prime minister, I take full responsibility for everything that the government has done," PM Johnson said. The death toll due to the virus in the UK reached 100,358 with over 3.7 million infected cases. Britain is the worst-hit country due to the virus in Europe. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson himself had tested positive for coronavirus and recovered later after self-isolating at Downing Street. Prime Minister Boris Johnson in April last year had said Britain was now past the peak of its coronavirus outbreak, however, England entered its third lockdown amid a surge in virus cases. The United Kingdom had recorded the highest official coronavirus death toll in Europe, overtaking Italy on May 5 last year with more than 32,000 deaths even as lockdown restrictions were eased in England with groups of up to six people allowed to meet from June 1 last year. The UK had recorded its lowest daily COVID-19 death toll since March 22 last year with 55 deaths, however, in September last year the UK banned gatherings of more than six people over fears of a second wave. In November, the UK had recorded 598 deaths which was the highest since May 12. In December, Britain became the first country to roll out the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine amid harsh lockdown restrictions.On December 19, PM Johnson imposed a lockdown on over 16 million people in England and reversed plans to ease curbs over Christmas as COVID-19 cases surged. Just days before Christmas, the UK government announced that more areas would be moved into Tier 4 from Boxing Day from December 26 as Britain began its third COVID-19 lockdown on January 5 with citizens ordered to stay at home. PM Johnson had said recently that Britain would tighten its border controls to block new variants of COVID-19.

UK records over 100,000 coronavirus deaths as PM Johnson takes 'full responsibility'

<p>As India celebrated its 72nd Republic Day on Tuesday, several nations congratulated India on the historic event.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Glimpses from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a> celebrations at the <a href="https://twitter.com/EOIBeijing?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EOIBeijing</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheEmbassyFamily?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheEmbassyFamily</a> <a href="https://t.co/jq8t7tGtgx">pic.twitter.com/jq8t7tGtgx</a></p>
— India in China (@EOIBeijing) <a href="https://twitter.com/EOIBeijing/status/1353907852692254722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;The Indian embassy officials in Beijing celebrated India's Republic Day with a "mesmerizing rendition of &nbsp;Vande Mataram".&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Glimpses from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a> celebrations at the <a href="https://twitter.com/EOIBeijing?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EOIBeijing</a><br />
<br />
A truly mesmerizing rendition of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vandemataram?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vandemataram</a> <a href="https://t.co/d6u6PNeVbc">pic.twitter.com/d6u6PNeVbc</a></p>
— India in China (@EOIBeijing) <a href="https://twitter.com/EOIBeijing/status/1353907103828643840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Bulgaria PM Boyko Borissov wished India extending warm greetings to the people of India for continued peace and prosperity.</p>

<p>"India is a natural partner and friend of &nbsp;Bulgaria and I am confident that our relationship will continue to flourish," the Bulgarian PM said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Warmest greetings and wishes for continued peace and prosperity to PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and the people of India on the occasion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2021</a>. 🇮🇳 is a natural partner and friend of 🇧🇬 and I am confident that our relationship will continue to flourish.<a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a></p>
— Boyko Borissov (@BoykoBorissov) <a href="https://twitter.com/BoykoBorissov/status/1354048146964434955?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>India's neighbour Sri Lanka also extended its best wishes on Republic Day, including Australia which celebrated Australia Day on January 26.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Best wishes from the Government and the people of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SriLanka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SriLanka</a> to the Government and the people of the Commonwealth of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Australia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Australia</a> on the occasion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AustraliaDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AustraliaDay</a>, 26 January 2021! 🇦🇺🇱🇰<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AustraliaDayJan26?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AustraliaDayJan26</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DiplomacyLk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DiplomacyLk</a><a href="https://twitter.com/AusHCSriLanka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AusHCSriLanka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/dfat?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dfat</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SLinAustralia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SLinAustralia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SLinSydney?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SLinSydney</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/slcgmel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@slcgmel</a> <a href="https://t.co/Xsyi2sWbaD">pic.twitter.com/Xsyi2sWbaD</a></p>
— MFA SL 🇱🇰 (@MFA_SriLanka) <a href="https://twitter.com/MFA_SriLanka/status/1353914417164001281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>India embassy officials celebrated the Republic Day in Riyadh. &nbsp;The Tricolour was unfurled by Ambassador Ausaf Sayeed which was then followed by the playing of the national anthem.</p>

<p>&nbsp;Ambassador Ausaf Sayeed read out President Kovind's message to a gathering of Indian community members.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The 72nd Republic Day of India was celebrated today at the Embassy of India, Riyadh. The Tricolour was unfurled by Ambassador <a href="https://twitter.com/drausaf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@drausaf</a> followed by the playing of the National Anthem. Ambassador read out the President’s Message to a limited gathering of Indian community members. <a href="https://t.co/kR4FNPJsp5">pic.twitter.com/kR4FNPJsp5</a></p>
— India in Saudi Arabia (@IndianEmbRiyadh) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianEmbRiyadh/status/1353982067365834752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin sent his greetings to President Kovind and PM Modi on the occasion of India's Republic Day. "Kindly accept heartfelt congratulations on the national day – the Republic Day," President Putin said in a tweet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">1/4 Russian President Vladimir <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Putin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Putin</a> sent his greetings to <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashtrapatibhvn</a> H.E. Mr Ram Nath Kovind and <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> H.E. Mr <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> on the occasion of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Putin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Putin</a>: Kindly accept heartfelt congratulations on the national day – the Republic Day. <a href="https://t.co/41gezG1pZf">pic.twitter.com/41gezG1pZf</a></p>
— Russia in India (@RusEmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/RusEmbIndia/status/1354026359727775744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Indian embassy in Bhutan also celebrated Republic Day on Tuesday morning with the hosting of the national flag.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Republic Day celebrations at the India House Estate, Thimphu this morning.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMBhutan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMBhutan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/FMBhutan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FMBhutan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianDiplomacy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianDiplomacy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KuenselOnline?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KuenselOnline</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BBSBhutan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BBSBhutan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BhutanT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BhutanT</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JournalistBt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JournalistBt</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BhutanTODAY?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BhutanTODAY</a> <a href="https://t.co/uiajNClIpP">pic.twitter.com/uiajNClIpP</a></p>
— India in Bhutan (@Indiainbhutan) <a href="https://twitter.com/Indiainbhutan/status/1353973401275273217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>In Pakistan, High Commission of India celebrated the 72nd Republic Day with "great enthusiasm". Charge d'Affaires Suresh Kumar unfurled the tricolour and read excerpts from President Kovind's message after that cultural program of patriotic songs and poems was organised.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">High Commission of India in Pakistan celebrated the 72nd Republic Day with great enthusiasm. Charge d'Affaires Suresh Kumar unfurled the tricolour and read excerpts from Hon'ble Rashtrapati ji’s message. A cultural program of patriotic songs and poems was organised.<a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/6YGxYxyM59">pic.twitter.com/6YGxYxyM59</a></p>
— India in Pakistan (@IndiainPakistan) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainPakistan/status/1353962532394987521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Officials in Indian High Commission in Malé also celebrated the Republic Day by unfurling the country's flag and organized a cultural event to mark the occasion.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Unfurling of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tiranga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tiranga</a> 🇮🇳! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay</a> celebrations <a href="https://t.co/ALcBVdFuvB">pic.twitter.com/ALcBVdFuvB</a></p>
— India in Maldives (@HCIMaldives) <a href="https://twitter.com/HCIMaldives/status/1353940512806297600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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As India celebrated its 72nd Republic Day on Tuesday, several nations congratulated India on the historic event. Glimpses from #RepublicDay celebrations at the @EOIBeijing #TheEmbassyFamily pic.

As India celebrated its 72nd Republic Day on Tuesday, several nations congratulated India on the historic event. Glimpses from #RepublicDay celebrations at the @EOIBeijing #TheEmbassyFamily pic.twitter.com/jq8t7tGtgx — India in China (@EOIBeijing) January 26, 2021 × The Indian embassy officials in Beijing celebrated India's Republic Day with a "mesmerizing rendition of Vande Mataram". Glimpses from #RepublicDay celebrations at the @EOIBeijing A truly mesmerizing rendition of #Vandemataram pic.twitter.com/d6u6PNeVbc — India in China (@EOIBeijing) January 26, 2021 × Bulgaria PM Boyko Borissov wished India extending warm greetings to the people of India for continued peace and prosperity. "India is a natural partner and friend of Bulgaria and I am confident that our relationship will continue to flourish," the Bulgarian PM said. Warmest greetings and wishes for continued peace and prosperity to PM @narendramodi and the people of India on the occasion of #RepublicDay2021. 🇮🇳 is a natural partner and friend of 🇧🇬 and I am confident that our relationship will continue to flourish.@PMOIndia — Boyko Borissov (@BoykoBorissov) January 26, 2021 × India's neighbour Sri Lanka also extended its best wishes on Republic Day, including Australia which celebrated Australia Day on January 26. Best wishes from the Government and the people of #SriLanka to the Government and the people of the Commonwealth of #Australia on the occasion of #AustraliaDay, 26 January 2021! 🇦🇺🇱🇰#AustraliaDayJan26 #lka #DiplomacyLk@AusHCSriLanka @dfat @SLinAustralia @SLinSydney @slcgmel pic.twitter.com/Xsyi2sWbaD — MFA SL 🇱🇰 (@MFA_SriLanka) January 26, 2021 × India embassy officials celebrated the Republic Day in Riyadh. The Tricolour was unfurled by Ambassador Ausaf Sayeed which was then followed by the playing of the national anthem. Ambassador Ausaf Sayeed read out President Kovind's message to a gathering of Indian community members. The 72nd Republic Day of India was celebrated today at the Embassy of India, Riyadh. The Tricolour was unfurled by Ambassador @drausaf followed by the playing of the National Anthem. Ambassador read out the President’s Message to a limited gathering of Indian community members. pic.twitter.com/kR4FNPJsp5 — India in Saudi Arabia (@IndianEmbRiyadh) January 26, 2021 × Russian President Vladimir Putin sent his greetings to President Kovind and PM Modi on the occasion of India's Republic Day. "Kindly accept heartfelt congratulations on the national day – the Republic Day," President Putin said in a tweet. 1/4 Russian President Vladimir #Putin sent his greetings to @rashtrapatibhvn H.E. Mr Ram Nath Kovind and @PMOIndia H.E. Mr @narendramodi on the occasion of the #RepublicDay.#Putin: Kindly accept heartfelt congratulations on the national day – the Republic Day. pic.twitter.com/41gezG1pZf — Russia in India (@RusEmbIndia) January 26, 2021 × The Indian embassy in Bhutan also celebrated Republic Day on Tuesday morning with the hosting of the national flag. Republic Day celebrations at the India House Estate, Thimphu this morning.#RepublicDay2021 @PMBhutan @FMBhutan @PMOIndia @MEAIndia @IndianDiplomacy @PIB_India @KuenselOnline @BBSBhutan @BhutanT @JournalistBt @BhutanTODAY pic.twitter.com/uiajNClIpP — India in Bhutan (@Indiainbhutan) January 26, 2021 × In Pakistan, High Commission of India celebrated the 72nd Republic Day with "great enthusiasm". Charge d'Affaires Suresh Kumar unfurled the tricolour and read excerpts from President Kovind's message after that cultural program of patriotic songs and poems was organised. High Commission of India in Pakistan celebrated the 72nd Republic Day with great enthusiasm. Charge d'Affaires Suresh Kumar unfurled the tricolour and read excerpts from Hon'ble Rashtrapati ji’s message. A cultural program of patriotic songs and poems was organised.@MEAIndia pic.twitter.com/6YGxYxyM59 — India in Pakistan (@IndiainPakistan) January 26, 2021 × Officials in Indian High Commission in Malé also celebrated the Republic Day by unfurling the country's flag and organized a cultural event to mark the occasion. Unfurling of the #Tiranga 🇮🇳! #RepublicDay celebrations pic.twitter.com/ALcBVdFuvB — India in Maldives (@HCIMaldives) January 26, 2021 ×

India's foreign embassy officials celebrate Republic Day

<p>The IMF on Tuesday projected an impressive 11.5 per cent growth rate for India in 2021, making the country the only major economy of the world to register a double-digit growth this year amidst the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>The International Monetary Fund's growth projections for India in its latest World Economic Outlook Update released on Tuesday reflected a strong rebound in the economy, which is estimated to have contracted by eight per cent in 2020 due to the pandemic.</p>

<p>In its latest update, the IMF projected a 11.5 per cent growth rate for India in 2021. This makes India the only major economy of the world to register a double-digit growth in 2021, it said.</p>

<p>China is next with 8.1 per cent growth in 2021 followed by Spain (5.9 per cent) and France (5.5 per cent).</p>

<p>Revising its figures, the IMF said that in 2020, the Indian economy is estimated to have contracted by eight per cent. China is the only major country which registered a positive growth rate of 2.3 per cent in 2020.</p>

<p>India's economy, the IMF said, is projected to grow by 6.8 per cent in 2022 and that of China by 5.6 per cent.</p>

<p>With the latest projections, India regains the tag of the fastest developing economies of the world.</p>

<p>IMF Chief Economist Gita Gopinath, during a virtual press conference to release the WEO update, said that India has somewhat a faster pace of recovery, but cumulatively by the end of 2022, it is nine per cent below its pre-pandemic projected level.</p>

<p>"Cumulatively by the end of 2022, India is still nine per cent below its pre pandemic projected level,"&nbsp;Gopinath said.</p>

<p>"We are seeing India come back to its 2019 levels and 2021, but it's still below. Why do we have these upgrades (in IMF's growth projections for India)....because the activity and mobility particularly came back much faster than expected in India. We have not seen another wave,"&nbsp;Gopinath said.</p>

<p>"In fact, we are seeing a very strong decline in cases, which is again a bit different from other parts of the world. So, these factors, including what we're seeing in terms of high frequency indicators, point to have some what faster pace of recovery. But again, there is still some distance to go,"&nbsp;Gopinath said.</p>

<p>Early this month, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva had said that India actually has taken very decisive action, very decisive steps to deal with the pandemic and to deal with the economic consequences of it.</p>

<p>India, she said, went for a very dramatic lockdown for a country of this size of population with people clustered so closely together. And then India moved to more targeted restrictions and lockdowns.</p>


The IMF on Tuesday projected an impressive 11.5 per cent growth rate for India in 2021, making the country the only major economy of the world to register a double-digit growth this year amidst the coronavirus pandemic.

The IMF on Tuesday projected an impressive 11.5 per cent growth rate for India in 2021, making the country the only major economy of the world to register a double-digit growth this year amidst the coronavirus pandemic. The International Monetary Fund's growth projections for India in its latest World Economic Outlook Update released on Tuesday reflected a strong rebound in the economy, which is estimated to have contracted by eight per cent in 2020 due to the pandemic. In its latest update, the IMF projected a 11.5 per cent growth rate for India in 2021. This makes India the only major economy of the world to register a double-digit growth in 2021, it said. China is next with 8.1 per cent growth in 2021 followed by Spain (5.9 per cent) and France (5.5 per cent). Revising its figures, the IMF said that in 2020, the Indian economy is estimated to have contracted by eight per cent. China is the only major country which registered a positive growth rate of 2.3 per cent in 2020. India's economy, the IMF said, is projected to grow by 6.8 per cent in 2022 and that of China by 5.6 per cent. With the latest projections, India regains the tag of the fastest developing economies of the world. IMF Chief Economist Gita Gopinath, during a virtual press conference to release the WEO update, said that India has somewhat a faster pace of recovery, but cumulatively by the end of 2022, it is nine per cent below its pre-pandemic projected level. "Cumulatively by the end of 2022, India is still nine per cent below its pre pandemic projected level," Gopinath said. "We are seeing India come back to its 2019 levels and 2021, but it's still below. Why do we have these upgrades (in IMF's growth projections for India)....because the activity and mobility particularly came back much faster than expected in India. We have not seen another wave," Gopinath said. "In fact, we are seeing a very strong decline in cases, which is again a bit different from other parts of the world. So, these factors, including what we're seeing in terms of high frequency indicators, point to have some what faster pace of recovery. But again, there is still some distance to go," Gopinath said. Early this month, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva had said that India actually has taken very decisive action, very decisive steps to deal with the pandemic and to deal with the economic consequences of it. India, she said, went for a very dramatic lockdown for a country of this size of population with people clustered so closely together. And then India moved to more targeted restrictions and lockdowns.

IMF projects 11.5% growth rate for India in 2021

<p>The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-curfew-demonstrations-erupt-in-netherlands-as-europe-battles-virus-359222">Netherlands</a> witnessed the third day of rioting over coronavirus <strong>curfew</strong> as the government said it will not back down to rioters.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/netherlands-anti-curfew-protests-spark-clashes-with-police-359213/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Protesters in&nbsp;<strong>Geleen</strong>&nbsp;town&nbsp;came out on the streets against strict night-time curfew amid the lockdown as clashes erupted&nbsp;with police. The demonstrators had earlier attacked police over the weekend.</p>

<p>The curfew was imposed after the National Institute for Health (RIVM) warned about a new wave of infections due to the <strong>"British variant"</strong> of COVID-19 as 4,129 new COVID-19 cases were reported on Monday.</p>

<p>Finance minister Wopke Hoekstra said that those responsible for the riots were not legitimate protesters. Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte had called the riots "unacceptable" as protesters rampaged through cities on Monday.</p>

<p>Riot police had clashed with demonstrators in <strong>Amsterdam</strong> and <strong>Rotterdam </strong>as protesters smashed shop windows even as the police deployed water cannon.</p>

<p>The riots spread to several cities including Amersfoort, <strong>The Hague</strong> and Den Bosch. Reports said police had arrested around 250 people after using water cannon and tear gas during demonstrations in Amsterdam, Eindhoven and other towns.</p>

<p>&nbsp;The country has witnessed the first curfew since World War II which took effect late on Saturday. The curfew has been set for &nbsp;9 pm to 4:30 am and is set to last until at least February 10.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;The country has recorded 952,950 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-may-keep-its-borders-closed-for-much-of-2021-amid-pandemic-359474">coronavirus</a> infections with 13,579 deaths so far.</p>


The Netherlands witnessed the third day of rioting over coronavirus curfew as the government said it will not back down to rioters. Watch: Protesters in Geleen town came out on the streets against strict night-time curfew amid the lockdown as clashes erupted with police.

The Netherlands witnessed the third day of rioting over coronavirus curfew as the government said it will not back down to rioters. Watch: Protesters in Geleen town came out on the streets against strict night-time curfew amid the lockdown as clashes erupted with police. The demonstrators had earlier attacked police over the weekend. The curfew was imposed after the National Institute for Health (RIVM) warned about a new wave of infections due to the "British variant" of COVID-19 as 4,129 new COVID-19 cases were reported on Monday. Finance minister Wopke Hoekstra said that those responsible for the riots were not legitimate protesters. Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte had called the riots "unacceptable" as protesters rampaged through cities on Monday. Riot police had clashed with demonstrators in Amsterdam and Rotterdam as protesters smashed shop windows even as the police deployed water cannon. The riots spread to several cities including Amersfoort, The Hague and Den Bosch. Reports said police had arrested around 250 people after using water cannon and tear gas during demonstrations in Amsterdam, Eindhoven and other towns. The country has witnessed the first curfew since World War II which took effect late on Saturday. The curfew has been set for 9 pm to 4:30 am and is set to last until at least February 10. The country has recorded 952,950 coronavirus infections with 13,579 deaths so far.

Protesters in Netherlands clash with police for third consecutive day over coronavirus curfew

<p>India celebrated its 72nd Republic Day today. It was a day when India proudly displays its military might and cultural diversity while&nbsp;celebrating&nbsp;its unsung heroes.</p>

<p>However, today’s Republic Day celebration was hijacked by a protest that turned into a riot as protesters chased policemen using tractors as tanks in the heart of Delhi.</p>

<p>The majestic Red Fort was overrun by hundreds of so-called farmers even as leaders of the farmer protests wasted no time in dissociating themselves from it.</p>

<p>The state-run buses were hit by tractors as public property was vandalised.</p>

<p>These farmers were protesting against India’s new farm laws. There have been multiple rounds of talks with the government but the stalemate continues. In order to demonstrate their dissent, the farmers had sought permission for a tractor rally on Republic Day. The Supreme Court of India had left the decision to the Delhi Police.</p>

<p>The Delhi Police had given permission for the tractor rally with farmers allotted a specific route for their rally largely on the outskirts of the capital so that the residents of Delhi were not inconvenienced.</p>

<p>However, as the farm groups approached Delhi, they not only diverted from the agreed route but also broke through the barricades. The police tried to stop them and in some cases used brute force as clashes ensued. There were reports of violence and vandalism from many parts of the capital and within hours, the protesting farmers entered the Red Fort complex.</p>

<p>The attempt to embarrass the government on a day like this is evident but it comes at a huge cost for the protesters since their own leaders have begun condemning the violence and whatever public sympathy they had seems to be eroding.</p>


India celebrated its 72nd Republic Day today. It was a day when India proudly displays its military might and cultural diversity while celebrating its unsung heroes.

India celebrated its 72nd Republic Day today. It was a day when India proudly displays its military might and cultural diversity while celebrating its unsung heroes. However, today’s Republic Day celebration was hijacked by a protest that turned into a riot as protesters chased policemen using tractors as tanks in the heart of Delhi. The majestic Red Fort was overrun by hundreds of so-called farmers even as leaders of the farmer protests wasted no time in dissociating themselves from it. The state-run buses were hit by tractors as public property was vandalised. These farmers were protesting against India’s new farm laws. There have been multiple rounds of talks with the government but the stalemate continues. In order to demonstrate their dissent, the farmers had sought permission for a tractor rally on Republic Day. The Supreme Court of India had left the decision to the Delhi Police. The Delhi Police had given permission for the tractor rally with farmers allotted a specific route for their rally largely on the outskirts of the capital so that the residents of Delhi were not inconvenienced. However, as the farm groups approached Delhi, they not only diverted from the agreed route but also broke through the barricades. The police tried to stop them and in some cases used brute force as clashes ensued. There were reports of violence and vandalism from many parts of the capital and within hours, the protesting farmers entered the Red Fort complex. The attempt to embarrass the government on a day like this is evident but it comes at a huge cost for the protesters since their own leaders have begun condemning the violence and whatever public sympathy they had seems to be eroding.

Farmers run riot in Delhi on Republic Day

<p>The Russian government said today that the United States should return to "full compliance" of the 2015 nuclear deal for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-zarif-open-to-oil-gulf-security-contacts-with-us-not-on-israel-358827">Iran </a>to meet its obligations under the pact.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/west-asia-post-iran-steps-up-its-nuclear-program-356458/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Russian foreign miniser Sergei Lavrov said: "The United States returns to full compliance with the corresponding Security Council resolution, creating conditions for Iran to meet its obligations under the nuclear deal."</p>

<p>The deal also known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), was signed in 2015 between Iran, the United States, China, Russia, Britain, France and Germany fell apart after former US president Donald <strong>Trump </strong>pulled the US out of the deal in 2018 as part of his administration's "maximum pressure" policy on Iran.</p>

<p>Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad <strong>Zarif</strong>&nbsp;had said earlier that his country "will return to the full implementation of our obligations" if the US government lifts sanctions.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, <strong>France</strong> said the Iranian government must comply with the accord limiting nuclear programme in order to have the United States return to the deal.</p>

<p>The Iran government had urged the US government to "unconditionally" lift sanctions. The Donald Trump administration had imposed harsh sanctions on Iran targeting its oil and banking sector after pulling out of the deal..</p>

<p>Iran now insists the Joe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cautious-welcome-for-biden-in-gulf-amid-yet-uncertain-iran-policy-358313">Biden</a> administration should first lift all sanctions and return to its own <strong>JCPOA</strong> obligations.</p>

<p>Biden had earlier expressed desire to negotiate more broadly with Iran.</p>


The Russian government said today that the United States should return to "full compliance" of the 2015 nuclear deal for Iran to meet its obligations under the pact.

The Russian government said today that the United States should return to "full compliance" of the 2015 nuclear deal for Iran to meet its obligations under the pact. Watch: Russian foreign miniser Sergei Lavrov said: "The United States returns to full compliance with the corresponding Security Council resolution, creating conditions for Iran to meet its obligations under the nuclear deal." The deal also known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), was signed in 2015 between Iran, the United States, China, Russia, Britain, France and Germany fell apart after former US president Donald Trump pulled the US out of the deal in 2018 as part of his administration's "maximum pressure" policy on Iran. Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif had said earlier that his country "will return to the full implementation of our obligations" if the US government lifts sanctions. Meanwhile, France said the Iranian government must comply with the accord limiting nuclear programme in order to have the United States return to the deal. The Iran government had urged the US government to "unconditionally" lift sanctions. The Donald Trump administration had imposed harsh sanctions on Iran targeting its oil and banking sector after pulling out of the deal.. Iran now insists the Joe Biden administration should first lift all sanctions and return to its own JCPOA obligations. Biden had earlier expressed desire to negotiate more broadly with Iran.

Nuclear deal row: US should return to full compliance for Iran to meet obligations, says Russia

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italian-prime-minister-conte-close-to-resigning-report-359159">Conte</a> handed his resignation to President Sergio Mattarella after his government lost his majority in the upper house Senate last week.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/italy-mints-new-2-euro-coins-commemorating-health-workers-359149/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The Italian president's office in a statement said: "Mattarella accepted the resignation and reserves the right to decide (what to do next) and invited the government to stay in office in a caretaker capacity."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The centrist Italia Viva party led by former premier <strong>Matteo Renzi </strong>had quit the coalition government after a row over the government's handling of the coronavirus crisis and economic recession.</p>

<p>&nbsp;Conte had come to office in June 2018. Italy first felt the coronavirus pandemic in Europe leading to countrywide shutdown as the country slipped into a recession with several parts of the country sitll in lockdown even as the <strong>vaccination </strong>drive has slowed in recent months.</p>

<p>The prime minister survived a vote of confidence in parliament last week but fell short of an overall majority in the upper house, the <strong>Senate</strong> securing 156 votes to 140, however, his government fell short of winning the 161 needed for an overall majority.</p>

<p>Conte's ruling party comprised of the populist Five Star Movement (M5S), the Democratic Party (PD) and a smaller left parties. Conte's efforts to lure centrist and independent Senators met with little success.</p>

<p>Under the country's constitution, parliament cannot be dissolved in the last six months of a sitting head of state's mandate. President Sergio Mattarella's term ends in January 2022.&nbsp;</p>


Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte handed his resignation to President Sergio Mattarella after his government lost his majority in the upper house Senate last week.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte handed his resignation to President Sergio Mattarella after his government lost his majority in the upper house Senate last week. Watch: The Italian president's office in a statement said: "Mattarella accepted the resignation and reserves the right to decide (what to do next) and invited the government to stay in office in a caretaker capacity." The centrist Italia Viva party led by former premier Matteo Renzi had quit the coalition government after a row over the government's handling of the coronavirus crisis and economic recession. Conte had come to office in June 2018. Italy first felt the coronavirus pandemic in Europe leading to countrywide shutdown as the country slipped into a recession with several parts of the country sitll in lockdown even as the vaccination drive has slowed in recent months. The prime minister survived a vote of confidence in parliament last week but fell short of an overall majority in the upper house, the Senate securing 156 votes to 140, however, his government fell short of winning the 161 needed for an overall majority. Conte's ruling party comprised of the populist Five Star Movement (M5S), the Democratic Party (PD) and a smaller left parties. Conte's efforts to lure centrist and independent Senators met with little success. Under the country's constitution, parliament cannot be dissolved in the last six months of a sitting head of state's mandate. President Sergio Mattarella's term ends in January 2022.

Pandemic fallout: Italian PM Giuseppe Conte resigns after losing Senate vote

<p>New Zealand PM <strong>Jacinda Ardern</strong> said today that the county may close its border for most part of the year amid the global vaccine rollout.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-govt-accused-of-mishandling-pandemic-death-toll-nears-100000-359467/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"Given the risks in the world around us and the uncertainty of the global rollout of a vaccine, we can expect our borders to be impacted for much of this year," &nbsp;Ardern said.</p>

<p>New Zealand will, however, continue its travel arrangements with <strong>Australia </strong>and other Pacific nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will continue to pursue travel bubbles with Australia and the Pacific, but the rest of the world simply poses too great a risk to our health and our economy to take the risk at this stage," Ardern asserted.</p>

<p>Ardern, however, criticised Australia for re-imposing quarantine for New Zealanders and she communicated her views to &nbsp;Australian Prime Minister <strong>Scott Morrison</strong>.</p>

<p>"If we're to enter a trans-Tasman travel bubble, we need to give people confidence they won't see border closures at very short notice over incidents that we believe can be well managed domestically," the New Zealand prime minister asserted.</p>

<p>New Zealand recently confirmed its first case of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-curfew-demonstrations-erupt-in-netherlands-as-europe-battles-virus-359222">COVID-19 </a>in several months after a woman who returned to New Zealand tested positive for the<strong> South African strain</strong>.</p>

<p>The country's health authorities may approve a COVID-19 vaccine <strong>Pfizer-BioNTech</strong> next week amid pressure to begin the vaccination drive. The Ardern government had earlier eliminated the virus from the country, however, two new cases COVID-19 were detected at an isolation facility on Tuesday.</p>

<p>New Zealand currently has 1,934 confirmed coronavirus cases including 25 deaths with &nbsp;65 active cases.&nbsp;</p>


New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern said today that the county may close its border for most part of the year amid the global vaccine rollout. Watch: "Given the risks in the world around us and the uncertainty of the global rollout of a vaccine, we can expect our borders to be impacted for much of this year," Ardern said.

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern said today that the county may close its border for most part of the year amid the global vaccine rollout. Watch: "Given the risks in the world around us and the uncertainty of the global rollout of a vaccine, we can expect our borders to be impacted for much of this year," Ardern said. New Zealand will, however, continue its travel arrangements with Australia and other Pacific nations. "We will continue to pursue travel bubbles with Australia and the Pacific, but the rest of the world simply poses too great a risk to our health and our economy to take the risk at this stage," Ardern asserted. Ardern, however, criticised Australia for re-imposing quarantine for New Zealanders and she communicated her views to Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison. "If we're to enter a trans-Tasman travel bubble, we need to give people confidence they won't see border closures at very short notice over incidents that we believe can be well managed domestically," the New Zealand prime minister asserted. New Zealand recently confirmed its first case of COVID-19 in several months after a woman who returned to New Zealand tested positive for the South African strain. The country's health authorities may approve a COVID-19 vaccine Pfizer-BioNTech next week amid pressure to begin the vaccination drive. The Ardern government had earlier eliminated the virus from the country, however, two new cases COVID-19 were detected at an isolation facility on Tuesday. New Zealand currently has 1,934 confirmed coronavirus cases including 25 deaths with 65 active cases.

New Zealand may keep its borders closed for much of 2021 amid pandemic

India's Republic Day: Rafale's gravity defying feat, IAF jets and Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher on display

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